I’ve been awfully busy recently, with some secret squirrel projects, and so I started thinking about things that I COULD share. It occurred to me that I don’t always show any of the finished objects that I’ve made. I think it’s always nice to see what folks have finished isn’t it – I’m always checking people out (in a non creepy way) if I spy a bit of a crocheted item on their person, don’t you?
My Juniper Cowl by TL Yarn Crafts was definitely a case of me seeing someone else wearing it and deciding I needed to make one too! There was a period of time, when several of us, who attended the The Crochet Sanctuary, had a bit of a craze on Juniper Cowls. Everyone was making them, everyone was wearing them, and of course I couldn’t miss out on that.
There was so much inspiration to be had from all the fabulous ones I’d seen, but I thought I’d try something a little different to see if it would work. So the original pattern by the fabulous designer Toni Lipsey calls for 10 different coloured mini skeins of fingering weight yarn, and don’t get me wrong I’ve seen some fabulous variations using mini skeins, but as I’m trying to do a bit better at using up what I’ve got I wondered if a Scheepjes Whirl might work as a substitute.
Made from a 60% Cotton and 40% Acrylic blend, Scheepjes Whirl‘s are a favourite of mine to create accessories as they are simultaneously lightweight, breathable and have a beautiful drape.
They have a generous twist to enable speed while working the yarn and to help prevent splitting, and each colourway also has a unique twisted ply which adds to the distinctiveness of each colourway. I personally LOVE the way the colours blend together in these Whirls, it’s so subtle and the effects are usually gorgeous. The colour I used was a Woolly Whirl called Sugar Sizzle (shade 472), but any type of Whirl or colour I have no doubt would work.
Scheepjes Whirl yarn cakes are a fingering weight yarn (4ply) that are 1000 m / 215g which is more than enough for a shawl or wrap. So even though it was a bit less than the 250g of fingering weight / 4ply that the pattern calls for I thought it would work. The pattern calls for a 4mm (US size G/6) hook but as a Scheepjes Whirl is more suited to a smaller hook size I went with a 3.5mm (US size E/4) to see what would happen.
I find working on someone else’s pattern very relaxing because all the thinking has been done for me – and that was definitely the case with this project. It was my take out and about project coming with me on car journeys, the playpark and the hairdressers! It’s also a great mindful project to tackle whilst watching TV or listening to a good audio book.
I really enjoyed making this cowl, and I love how it turned out. It’s a great pattern! I have to say it’s a finished item that I’ve used regularly since I’ve worn it. I might just have to make another at some point, though this time I think I’ll defiantly be looking at what hand dyed mini’s I’ve got because that would just be such a delicious project.
Do you have a favourite finished object that you’ve made recently? I’d love to hear about it – let me know in the comments below.
Until next time folks! Happy hooking, keep calm and crochet on my friends xx
I’m super excited to be joining forces again with the lovely and talented yarn dyer Kitey, aka The Yarn Whisperer, to bring you a brand new summer make-along.
This is our SIXTH collaboration in our make-along series (you can see a round up of all CALs and MALs here) and as always offers a chance to use some wonderful hand-dyed yarn combined with a fun summery crochet project.
Imagine you are sitting on a deck chair at the beach; you are feeling that joyous light-hearted feeling of a being on holiday; no work, just time to recline and relax. The waves are crashing against the shore and you can hear the sounds of chatter and laughter in the distance as the sun softly warms your face.
You are enjoying the anticipation of someone bringing you your favourite ice-cream but while you wait you decide to open up your project bag to start that new WIP. There is a light breeze that gently moves your yarn as you take out the ball and your hook and you hear the call of a seagull as it flies by overhead…
Join us as we take part in the Graceful Gull Make Along!
If you are not sure what a MAL is, you can read more on the MAL landing page here, but Kitey and I have actually had this planned since last years Christmas collab (and we may have already planned more projects into 2024 – we do get a bit over excited when we start talking!)
This time around we are going to be making a shawlette, which I’m not going to show you yet, and I’m not going to give away too much about the project, but what I will say is that I really, really love everything about it and can’t wait to share it with you!
An exclusive pattern and kit are being created for this extra special MAL. Each kit will include the following super washed merino 4ply (Sock weight) yarn;
1x 100g / 425m skein of natural
2x 50g / 212m skeins of two exclusive hand-dyed colourways
1 x 20g / 85m of another exclusive hand-dyed colourway
Pre-ordered kits will be available for £45 + postage, and can be made on The Yarn Whisperer website from 10 am on 9th May and if you order in the first 24 hours you can enjoy a 10% Early Bird discount.
AND if you order your kit in the first 24 hours you can enjoy a 10% Early Bird discount.
Kits will be dyed to order over the coming weeks, with generally a 1 week turn-around from order to shipping. But get in quick to ensure you get yours in plenty of time to crochet along with us!
Last International orders will be shipped by 25th June if ordered by the end of May. UK orders will continue to be shipped after this date but ordering early ensures your kit arrives in plenty of time to join us on 31st July.
The Make Along will run from 31st July to 15th September for a nice relaxed project with plenty of time for you to make the pattern. You can of course start the pattern at anytime you wish, this deadline is just there for those that like to have one.
I’ve put together all the details for this particular MAL on a landing page which you can find here, or find via the top menu of this blog under the tab ‘CALS AND MALS’.
There will be support for the pattern as usual in my Facebook group; the KCACO-UK Crochet Community Group. You can also pop in and join in with the Virtual Stitch-n-B*tch sessions hosted by Kitey on Tuesday’s evenings from 5.20pm GMT (see full details on Kitey’s Insta page). These sessions are a bit like going to a virtual knit and natter group, and everyone there is really lovely and helpful.
We look forward to you sharing your WIPs with us and we will be using hashtags #GracefulGullMAL #kcacouk and #yarnwhisperer if you want to tag us on socials – we love to see what you make.
Please note that some of the links in my blog are affiliate links. I may earn a small commission if you purchase via these links, but the price you pay is not affected, thank you for your support.
I’m delighted to say I’ve got another nostalgic pattern for you today from the world of the Clangers! As all Clanger fans know, their favourite food is soup – and who makes that soup? It’s the Soup Dragon!
If you aren’t familiar with The Clangers, it’s a classic BBC British stop-motion pre-school children’s tv series. It’s about a family of knitted mice-like creatures who live on a small moon-like blue planet.
Now I’m not old enough to remember the original series (which ran between 1969-74), but when I had my eldest daughter my mother-in-law bought us a DVD of The Clangers, which we watched together so the Clangers have a special place in my heart – as they do for many people!
You may remember that I designed a sweet “Clanger” themed mobile for Issue 79 of Crochet Now and now I’m delighted to have created another favourite character from the show, The Soup Dragon in a puppet form. The Soup Dragon: a benign, female creature with a penchant for Green Soup. Clangers only eat green soup which is supplied by the Soup Dragon harvested from the planet’s volcanic soup wells.
The finished puppet is approx. 25 cm (9.8 inches) from nose to cuff and will fit little hands easily; it will also stretch to accommodate adult hands too for adult / child playtime.
For my Soup Dragon puppet I used some Stylecraft Special DK with a 4mm hook in 8 different colours. I think many of us have a Stylecraft stash of yarn for various projects, it’s such a versatile yarn with an amazing selection of shades that cover the whole rainbow several times over. It’s an 100% acrylic yarn that is hard-wearing and machine washable – making it great for toys!
If you make up the The Soup Dragon Puppet I hope you’ll share any finished photos with me on social media (facebook, twitter or instagram) or as a project on Ravelry – I love to see what you make! And finally you may wish to make sure you are signed up to blog (below) and / or my mailing list to get a reminder when new blog posts, discounts or new pattern releases are available.
Until next time folks! Happy hooking and keep calm and crochet on my friends xx
Please note that some of the links in my blog are affiliate links. I may earn a small commission if you purchase via these links, but the price you pay is not affected, thank you for your support.
Today I’m going to share the last of the patterns I created for the April 2023 edition of I Like Crochet magazine. Bright and cheerful, and an excellent stash buster, allow me to introduce the Patchwork Puppy.
A great pattern for all the dog-lovers out there, this perfect patchwork pup is fab for using up any part balls of yarn you have hanging around! With his colourful tummy and eye patch he’ll win over fans of every age.
I created my pup with a 3mm hook and various colours of Ricorumi DK which, if you are not not familiar with it, is a100% cotton yarn which comes in 25g [57.5 meters] balls. I love Ricorumi DK especially for amigurumi as it comes in the cute little balls in loads of different colours so I can usually find the shades that I’m looking for.
As well as the patchwork puppy (and the flower hair accessories and countryside pillow) the April 2023 edition features loads of lovely seasonal patterns and a range of interesting articles. If you SUBSCRIBEyou can get the magazine straight to your desktop or iPad as well as access to lots of other extra crochet bonus material.
If you hook up the any of the designs in this issue I hope you’ll share your photos with me on social media (facebook, twitter or instagram) or as a project on Ravelry – I love to see what you make! And finally you may wish to make sure you are signed up to blog (below) and / or my mailing list to get a reminder when new blog posts, discounts or new pattern releases are available.
Until next time folks! Happy hooking and keep calm and crochet on my friends xx
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Please note that some of the links in my blog are affiliate links. I may earn a small commission if you purchase via these links, but the price you pay is not affected. You can read more about my affiliate links here.
How is it already nearing the end of march already? I can’t quite believe how fast this year is going by! I’ve not yet told you about the second design, of the three, that I created the April 2023 edition of I Like Crochet magazine. This next design is inspired by bright cheerful Spring walks; allow me to introduce the Countryside Pillow.
The layered landscape of the countryside on a bright day inspired this pillow. Next weekend is one of my favourites time of the year here in the UK as our clocks go forward.
It means we’ll gain an extra hour of daylight everyday, making it so much more bright and cheerful all round. That of course means that we have longer days to crochet by – woo hoo!
For my pillow I used a combination of John Arbon Textiles yarns and a 3mm (US closest size D/3). The main section of the pillow is made with 200g (250m per 100g) of Appledore yarn which is 40% Devon Closewool / 40% Romney / 20% Exmoor Blueface.
I then combined this with some of their Appledore Mini DK skeins (25g / 62m) and some Knit by Numbers Mini DK skeins, which is (at the time of writing this) is 100% Merino to create the hills and valleys on the front of the pillow.
I really enjoy crocheting with both of these yarns, each skein is dyed with a beautiful vibrancy to create a palette of shades that work together beautifully.
Crocheted using the altered berry stitch and a smattering of different yarns and colors, this pattern could also be a great stash buster to create a landscape at sunrise or sunset, fields of green or fields of wheat.
As well as my flower hair accessories and countryside pillow the April 2023 edition features loads of lovely seasonal patterns and a range of interesting articles. If you SUBSCRIBEyou can get the magazine straight to your desktop or iPad as well as access to lots of other extra crochet bonus material.
If you hook up the any of the designs in this issue I hope you’ll share your photos with me on social media (facebook, twitter or instagram) or as a project on Ravelry – I love to see what you make! And finally you may wish to make sure you are signed up to blog (below) and / or my mailing list to get a reminder when new blog posts, discounts or new pattern releases are available.
Until next time folks! Happy hooking and keep calm and crochet on my friends xx
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Please note that some of the links in my blog are affiliate links. I may earn a small commission if you purchase via these links, but the price you pay is not affected. You can read more about my affiliate links here.
I’m delighted to say that I’ve got three brand news designs in the April 2023 edition of I Like Crochet magazine. In this issue they’ve put together 16+ fresh spring patterns meant to get your creativity flowing, allow me to introduce the first pattern of mine; the Bouquet Bobby Pins and Barrette set.
With the clocks going back at the end of the month, here in the UK, we are looking forward to that cold weather fading and signs of life bursting from the once-frozen ground! It’s hard not to get excited about the new season head: spring!
I love Spring, it’s such a period of anticipation of warmer weather, allowing us to spend more time outside, and I look eagerly for those first flowers to bloom.
So it’s time to tuck these botanical pins into your locks for a whimsical spring look. The pattern allows you to arrange and design your own placement for the flowers and leaves for each pin allowing you to customize to your heart’s content.
I used Scheepjes Maxi Sweet Treat, which is a lace weight yarn for my hair accessories with a 1.75mm (US size 6) hook. The yarn is 100% Cotton; 142 yards 140 meters / 25 grams and I used six different colours, (519 Freesia, 395 Willow, 247 Bluebird, 252 Watermelon, 411 Sweet Orange, 266 Light Orchid), but you could make in any colour to match a theme or outfit.
The only other things you will need to make your floral clips are the blank hair accessory pieces to add your flowers to. I used these Cabochon hair clips from Etsy which were perfect, along with these diy barrettes (also from Etsy), and this is the glue gun I used (also from Amazon) which I can recommend.
From holidays to weddings these hair clips are perfect for adding some Spring zing to your outfits.
As well as my flower hair accessories the April 2023 edition features loads of lovely seasonal patterns and a range of interesting articles. If you SUBSCRIBEyou can get the magazine straight to your desktop or iPad as well as access to lots of other extra crochet bonus material.
If you hook up the Bouquet Bobby Pins and Barrette I hope you’ll share your photos with me on social media (facebook, twitter or instagram) or as a project on Ravelry – I love to see what you make! And finally you may wish to make sure you are signed up to blog (below) and / or my mailing list to get a reminder when new blog posts, discounts or new pattern releases are available.
I’ll be back soon to tell you about the other two patterns that are available in this issue.
Until next time folks! Happy hooking and keep calm and crochet on my friends xx
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Please note that some of the links in my blog are affiliate links. I may earn a small commission if you purchase via these links, but the price you pay is not affected. You can read more about my affiliate links here.
Hi folks, I’ve got a brand new FREE pattern to share with you today, the Dýnami Cable Earwarmer. A great first crochet cable project to create a quick cosy headband.
The idea for this headband came about all because of my friend Sharon who is currently raising money for MIND as she prepares to run the London Marathon (you can watch some of her prep YouTube videos here). As part of her fundraising she was doing a few coffee morning sales, where cake and crochet were combined, and a few of her crochet friends were going to donate some crochet items to help her raise some funds.
As we chatted about what we could provide I got to thinking about headbands / ear warmers, something that runners could potentially use, and plus it’s a cute and cosy accessory for us non-runners out there! So I put my name down for some ear warmers and decided to come up with a brand new design in honour of Sharon’s venture.
The name of the headband ‘dýnami’ comes from the word ‘strength’ in Greek as I was thinking about marathons and having that stamina to run 26.2 miles (42km) – I couldn’t do it so thank goodness for people like Sharon who have the focus and dedication! Plus MIND is a great charity to raise money for, I’m sure everyone knows someone who’s life has been touched by mental health challenges – I know mine has.
So as I’m on a bit of a yarn ban this year (because I seriously have enough yarn to fill a shop) instead of buying I went stash diving for these headbands. I knew I wanted something wool, as wool has the ability to manage moisture and regulate temperature, which I thought would be useful if you did want to use the headband whilst out for a run.
In my ample stash I found a load of different colours of Drops LIMA Mix. I actually have no idea what my original plan was for the yarn, as they were a few random different colours, but it was pretty much exactly what I was looking for to create the ear warmers. I would suggest that a solid shade yarn, rather than a variegated yarn, would work best for this patterns so you can see the textured cables.
I actually don’t know why I haven’t used the Drops LIMA Mix before now because it’s LOVELY! I thoroughly enjoyed crocheting with it. The DK (8ply / Light Worsted) yarn comes in 50g (100m / 109yds) balls and is a squishy mix of 65% Wool and 35% Alpaca which is beautifully soft and pleasant to work with.
Scroll down for the free version of this pattern but I’d recommend the purchase of the ad-free PDF Pattern if you’d like all the instructions and pictures in a nice document which you can print and take notes on without relying on your phone or an internet connection.
Before we get to the pattern if you would like to contribute to Sharon’s fundraising for MIND, before 23 April 2023, then you can on her specific charity page although this pattern is free, if you purchase the PDF pattern before this date any income generated I will pass over for MIND too.
The pattern below is written just in UK terms but you can view a handy conversion chart here on the blog.
Materials
Skill Level: 3 – Intermediate
Yarn: Double Knit, 8ply / yarn weight #3 (Light),
50g (100m) Drops LIMA mix
Drops LIMA mix used in photographs in shades Beige Mix 0619, Off White 0100, Dark Grey Mix 0519, Jeans Blue 6235, Deep Taupe 5610
A single 50g ball will make 1 adult ladies sized headband to fit an approximate 22 inch / 58cm circumference sized head if you match gauge. You can continue the pattern to make a bigger size but you will then need an additional ball of yarn.
Pattern will work in other hooks and yarns though finished size will be different.
Obtaining the correct gauge is critical to this project for two reasons; if you do not match gauge then either your item will be bigger or smaller than the specified finished size, and as cables are a bit of a yarn eater then you may run out of yarn. Try going up or down a hook size to meet gauge and/or if you know you crochet loosely maybe make sure you have extra yarn before you start.
Finished Sizes:
Pre-schooler/Toddler Size: follow pattern, stop after row 65, follow directions for seaming and wrapping. (approx. 43cm / 17 in long)
Child Size: follow pattern, stop repeats after row 69, follow directions for seaming and wrapping. (approx. 46cm / 18 in long)
Adult Ladies Size: follow pattern, stop repeats after row 77, follow directions for seaming and wrapping. (approx. 58cm / 22 in long)
Stitch Guidance
Slip Stitch (sl st): Insert hook in st indicated, yarn over and draw through all loops.
Double Crochet (dc): Insert hook in st indicated and pull up a loop (two loops on hook), yarn over, pull through both loops on hook.
Half Treble Crochet (htr): Yarn over, insert hook in indicated st and pull up a loop (three loops on hook), yarn over, pull through all three loops on hook.
Front post double treble (FPdtr):
[ … ] Repeat section in square brackets until specified
( … ) Repeat section in curved brackets into one stitch or space
Pattern Notes
The ch1 at the start of a rnd does not count as a st
Pattern
MATERIALS
Yarn Required: 50g / 100m / 109yds of Double Knit, 8ply / yarn weight #3 (Light)
Yarn Used in photos:
Drops LIMA mix used in photographs in shades:
Beige Mix 0619, Off White 0100, Dark Grey Mix 0519, Jeans Blue 6235, Deep Taupe 5610
About the yarn:
Drops Lima Mix; DK; 50g / 100m / 109yds65% Wool, 35% Alpaca
A single 50g ball will make one headband to fit an approximate 22 inch / 58cm circumference sized head if you match gauge. You can continue the pattern to make a bigger size but you will then need an additional ball of yarn.
Hook Size(s): 4mm (US size G/6).
Pattern will work in other hooks and yarns though finished size may be different.
You will also need:
· A yarn needle
· Stitch Markers
Gauge: 5htr = 2.5cm (1”)
Obtaining the correct gauge is not critical to this project but if your gauge does not match the gauge stated then your finished item will be a different size.
Finished size: Guidance provided for adjusting the headband for different sizes given in the pattern.
STITCH GUIDANCE
Chain (ch): Bring yarn over hook from back to front and grab it with hook. Draw hooked yarn through slip knot and onto hook.
Slip Stitch (sl st): Insert hook in st indicated, yarn over and draw through all loops.
Double Crochet (dc): Insert hook in st indicated and pull up a loop (two loops on hook), yarn over, pull through both loops on hook.
Half Treble (htr): Yarn over, insert hook in indicated st and pull up a loop (three loops on hook), yarn over, pull through all three loops on hook.
Treble (tr): Yarn over, insert hook in indicated st and pull up a loop (three loops on hook), yarn over, pull through two loops, yarn over, pull through remaining two loops on hook.
Front Post Double Treble (FPdtr): Yarn over hook (twice), insert your hook from front to back to front around the post of the stitch indicated, yarn over, pull up a loop, (yarn over, pull through 2 loops on your hook) 3 times.
PATTERN NOTES
Right side (RS): This indicates the right side of your work
[ … ] Repeat section in square brackets until specified
PATTERN
The ch1 at the start of a row does not count as a st.
You may find it useful to add a stitch marker to the first / and last st of a row.
Row 1 (RS): Ch17, 1htr in the 4th ch from hook, 1htr in each st across until the end, turn. 15sts
Row 2: Ch1, 1dc in each st across until the end, turn. 15sts
Row 3 (RS): Ch1, 1htr in the next 2sts, miss 2sts from the last st worked on current row and 4 sts two rows below [FPdtr around the post of the next 2sts, then working back over the FPdtr you’ve just made, FPdtr in the two missed sts], 1htr in the next st, FPdtr in the next st, 1htr in the next st, repeat [ … ] once more, 1htr in the last 2sts. 15sts
Row 4: Ch1, 1dc in each st across until the end, turn. 15sts
Row 5 (RS): Ch1, 1htr in the next 2sts, [FPdtr around the post of the 4sts (the FPdtr) two rows below, 1htr in the next st, FPdtr in the next st, repeat [ … ] once more, 1htr in the last 2sts. 15sts
Repeat rows 2 – 5 for the pattern;
Approximate measurements given below for different sizes, however for best fit measure the head in question and work until the band measures 1cm / 0.4 inches smaller than required as the headband will stretch.
For sizes greater than the largest size please note you will need more than one ball of yarn.
Pre-schooler/Toddler Size: follow pattern, stop after row 65, follow directions for seaming and wrapping. (approx. 43cm / 17 in long)
Child Size: follow pattern, stop repeats after row 69, follow directions for seaming and wrapping. (approx. 46cm / 18 in long)
Adult Ladies Size: follow pattern, stop repeats after row 77, follow directions for seaming and wrapping. (approx. 58cm / 22 in long)
Fasten off the yarn on your last row but leave a long yarn tail attached.
FINISHING
Join the two ends of the headband together with the right sides facing each other.
Loosely slip stitch along the row, pushing your hook through both layers of the headband for each stitch, so that you create a seam.
Thread the tail of the yarn through a darning needle and sew a couple of stitches before trimming off the excess. Turn the headband right side out.
And that’s it, enjoy your new headband!
If you enjoyed this pattern please give it a love, or leave a comment or review on the platform you got it from – and I hope you’ll share your photos with me on social media (facebook, twitter or instagram) or as a project on Ravelry – I love to see what you make! And finally you may wish to make sure you are signed up to blog (below) and / or my mailing list to get a reminder when new blog posts, discounts or new pattern releases are available.
Until next time folks! Happy hooking and keep calm and crochet on my friends xx
Please note that some of the links in my blog are affiliate links. I may earn a small commission if you purchase via these links, but the price you pay is not affected, thank you for your support.
I’m excited to say I’m going to be taking part in a new crochet blog hop! From 3 – 22 MarchMadame Stitch is hosting a blog hop featuring 22 fabulous crochet designers.
Each day beginning tomorrow, Friday 3 March, at 1pm UK time (8am ET), a crochet wrap, scarf or cowl design will be featured on the Madame Stitch blog.
AND you lovely crocheters will be able to get the pattern as a free PDF download for 24 hrs with the coupon code that will be provided!
In this Spring Edition of the Wraps, Scarves and Cowls blog hop, you’ll find crochet women’s accessories for all your needs. You might want something that:
Adds a dash of color to your favorite outfit.
Wraps you in warmth on a cool spring day.
Creates an elegant evening look for a night out on the town.
There are some really fabulous designs on offer in this blog hop!
I’m going to leave it as a surprise as to which day of March is my day, and what my design is, but I can say it’s a brand NEW cowl design made with some very fabulous yarn from one of my favourite yarn dyers – I think that was quite a big hint! Can you guess which one it is?
If you can’t wait for everyday in March, because you want things now, then there is also an option to purchase the pattern bundle for ALL the patterns from the blog hop for just £12.50 ($15)
It includes all 22 designs featured in the blog hop in one bundle that you can download to your favourite device. You’ll then be able to print out individual patterns as your convenience.
This pattern bundle of crochet women’s accessories won’t last for long. It will only be available until Sunday, 26 March2023.
So make sure you visit the Madame Stitch roundup post every day from 3rd through to the 24th March to pick that day’s featured pattern PDF absolutely free! And be sure to give my fellow designers some love as they share their work on each of the blog hop days.
Until next time folks! Happy hooking, keep calm and crochet on my friends xx
Please note that some of the links in my blog are affiliate links. I may earn a small commission if you purchase via these links, but the price you pay is not affected.
How are you all doing? Are you ready for Part 6 of the CAL?
I’ve so enjoyed watching the pinecones develop from last week in the Facebook group and Instagram! It’s so lovely to see the crochet community come together around the project, from all parts of the world, I can’t tell you how lovely it is to see your work progressing week by week!
Below you can see some of the wonderful photos of the CAL that have been shared of the last part, aren’t they wonderful! If you want to link your photos the hashtag for this years CAL is #KCACOUKCAL23 for Twitter and Instagram. Though you you can also join in with any progress photos by linking your projects on your favourite social media sites: Ravelry, my Facebook page or Facebook group and Pinterest.
So let’s get down to Part 6 then shall we, this week we are going to be adding some mushrooms to our Enchanted Wood.
I always thing that mushrooms are a fascinating and diverse feature of woodlands, many species can be spotted all year round and there are hundreds of different types. Fungi are the main decomposers the woods breaking down dead plants, basically it feeds itself by digesting organic matter which it then returns as nutrients to the soil. Clever little things, so I thought they needed a place in our blanket.
As before, as well as the written pattern I have included a crochet chart as an extra visual tool. If you are not familiar with reading charts, you you might find my blog post about ‘How to read a crochet chart’ a useful starting point.
If you are brand new to the CAL you can find all the information you need on the CAL landing page, where I’ll link all the CAL posts in one place as I add them here to the blog. Yarn packs are available from the lovely folks at Black Sheep Wools and there are a number of CAL accessories that are also available from some fabulous small businesses (that I talked a little more about here).
The pattern for this crochet along will be available for free here on the blog but sometimes it’s easier to have a printable PDF to refer to. The whole pattern therefore will also be available in a printer friendly PDF version in my Ravelry store (for a one off payment). Each weekly instalment will become ready for immediate download in either UK or US terms. As with any purchase you make of my patterns your support of me and my crochet endeavours is very much appreciated – thank you for supporting my work!
A Dutch version of the pattern will be put together by the very lovely Iris from Eenmooigebaar via the link below. Iris has brilliantly translated a range of my patterns before (these are also available on the website) so I’m delighted she’s joining us again this time.
Yarn: 160g / 400m / 437yds or 2 x 100g ball of Stylecraft Naturals Cotton and Bamboo in Celery (7155) – YARN H or alternatively 2 x 100g of Stylecraft Special DK in Pistachio (1822) – YARN F
You will also need: Scissors, A yarn needle, stitch markers
Gauge: 5 htr sts = 2.5cm (1”). Gauge is not critical for this design, with each part I will provide the size of my work. If your gauge does not meet mine it will just mean you will end up with a bigger or smaller blanket. If you wish to match my gauge you might try going up a hook size if your tension is quite tight, or going down a hook size if your tension is looser.
Finished Size (Unblocked): Part 6 Approximate measurements:
In Naturals 84cm (33”) wide x 104cm (40.9”) long
In Special DK: 85.5cm (33.5”) wide x 103.5cm (40.5”) long.
The pattern below is in UK Terms, scroll down for US Terms:
STITCH GUIDANCE
Chain (ch): Bring yarn over hook from back to front and grab it with hook. Draw hooked yarn through slip knot and onto hook.
Slip Stitch (sl st): Insert hook in st indicated, yarn over and pull through all loops.
Double Crochet (dc): Insert hook in st indicated and pull up a loop (two loops on hook), yarn over, pull through both loops on hook.
Half Treble (htr): Yarn over, insert hook in st indicated and pull up a loop (three loops on hook), yarn over, pull through all three loops on hook.
Treble (tr): Yarn over, insert hook in st indicated and pull up a loop (three loops on hook), yarn over, pull through two loops, yarn over, pull through remaining two loops on hook.
Seven Treble Cluster (7trCl): Work 7 trebles into one stitch.
Back Post Treble (BPtr): Yarn over, insert hook from back to front to back around post of indicated stitch below (your hook should now be positioned horizontally behind of the st that you’re working around), yarn over and pull up a loop, yarn over pull through two loops on hook (two loops on hook), yarn over, pull through remaining loops on hook.
Puff Stitch (PF): Work puff stitches in this pattern as follows; Yarn over and insert your hook into the specified stitch/space, yarn over again and pull up a long loop. (Yarn over and insert your hook into the same stitch / space, yarn over again and pull up a long loop) repeat from ( …) three more times (5 times total – 11 loops on hook). Yarn over and pull through 10 loops on your hook (2 loops on hook), yarn over and pull through last 2 loops on hook to close. Puff stitches will show on the other side of your work when made.
Right side (RS): This indicates the right side of your work
[ … ] Repeat section in square brackets until specified
( … ) Repeat section in curved brackets into one stitch or space
SCHEMATIC – PART 6
PATTERN – PART 6
You will build part 6 onto the right side of the CAL;
With the right side facing you will work on the row ends of part 5, then across part 4, then on the row ends of part 5 again.
We will be adding rows, working from the bottom upwards, where there isn’t a st you will use post of sts of the row ends of Part 5.
The ch3 counts as the first st, if this produces too much of a gap at the start of a row it can be substituted for a ch2.
The ch1 at the start of a row doesn’t count as a stitch.
You will not count the sl st’s of row 5 in your stitch count when instructed to miss sts.
If you find that your rows are pulling into the centre you may wish to use a larger hook for this section e.g. 4mm (US size G/6).
Row 1 (RS): Sl st to join YARN H around the post of the last st of Part 5; ch3, 1tr in the same st,[ miss st at end of the next row, 2tr around the post of the next st ] repeat from [ … ] evenly fourteen times on Part 3, 1tr in the corner of Part 4, BPtr in the next 123sts of Part 4, 1tr in the corner of Part 4, 2tr around the post of the next 2sts [miss st at the end of the next row, 2tr around the post of the next st], repeat { … ] evenly twelve times more on the row ends of Part 5, turn. 62 tr / 123 BPtr / 185 sts
Row 2: Ch3, 1tr in the next st, [ch1, miss st, 1tr in the next 3sts] repeat { … ] across until the last 3sts, ch1, miss st, 1tr in the last 2sts, turn. 139 tr / 46 x ch1-sps
Row 3: Ch3, 1tr in each st across, turn. 185 tr
Row 4 (WS) : Ch3, 1tr in the next st, [ch2, miss 2sts, PF in the next st, ch2, miss 2sts, 1tr in the
next 3sts ] repeat { … ] across another twenty-one times, ch2, miss 2sts, PF in the next st, ch2, miss 2sts, 1tr in the last 2sts. 70 tr / 46 x ch2-sps / 23 PF
Row 5: Ch1, 1dc in the next st, sl st in the next st, [miss 2 ch, 7trCl in the top of the next PF st, miss 2 ch, sl st in the top of the next tr, ch4, miss next st, sl st in the top of the next tr] repeat { … ] across another twenty-one times, miss 2 ch, 7trCl in the top of the next PF st, miss 2 ch, sl st in the top of the next tr, 1dc in the last st, turn. 23 x 7trCl / 22 x ch4-sps / 2 dc
Row 6: Ch6 (counts as tr + ch3), [ miss 3sts, 1 dc in the top centre tr of the 7trCl, ch3, miss 3sts, 1htr in the ch4-sp, ch3 ] repeat from { … ] across another twenty-one times, miss 3sts, 1 dc in the top centre of the 7trCl, miss 3sts, 1tr in the last st, turn. 2tr / 22 htr / 23 dc / 46 x ch3-sps
Row 7: Ch3, [ 3tr in the next ch3-sp, 1tr in the next dc, 3tr in the next ch3-sp, 1tr in the next htr ] repeat { … ] across another twenty-one times, 3tr in the next ch3-sp, 1tr in the next dc, 3tr in the next ch3-sp, 1tr in the last st, turn. 185 tr
Rows 8 – 13: Repeat rows 2 – 7
Rows 14—15: Repeat rows 2 – 3. 185 sts
Fasten off and weave in ends.
Reattach YARN H to the opposite side of your work and repeat rows 1 – 15. Fasten off and weave in ends.
Pattern in US Terms:
STITCH GUIDANCE
Chain (ch): Bring yarn over hook from back to front and grab it with hook. Draw hooked yarn through slip knot and onto hook.
Slip Stitch (sl st): Insert hook in st indicated, yarn over and pull through all loops.
Single Crochet (sc): Insert hook in st indicated and pull up a loop (two loops on hook), yarn over, pull through both loops on hook.
Half Double Crochet (hdc): Yarn over, insert hook in st indicated and pull up a loop (three loops on hook), yarn over, pull through all three loops on hook.
Double Crochet (dc): Yarn over, insert hook in st indicated and pull up a loop (three loops on hook), yarn over, pull through two loops, yarn over, pull through remaining two loops on hook.
Seven Double Crochet Cluster (7dcCl): Work 7 double crochet into one stitch.
Back Post Double Crochet (BPdc): Yarn over, insert hook from back to front to back around post of indicated stitch below (your hook should now be positioned horizontally behind of the st that you’re working around), yarn over and pull up a loop, yarn over pull through two loops on hook (two loops on hook), yarn over, pull through remaining loops on hook.
Right side (RS): This indicates the right side of your work
Puff Stitch (PF): Work puff stitches in this pattern as follows; Yarn over and insert your hook into the specified stitch/space, yarn over again and pull up a long loop. (Yarn over and insert your hook into the same stitch / space, yarn over again and pull up a long loop) repeat from ( …) three more times (5 times total – 11 loops on hook). Yarn over and pull through 10 loops on your hook (2 loops on hook), yarn over and pull through last 2 loops on hook to close. Puff stitches will show on the other side of your work when made.
[ … ] Repeat section in square brackets until specified
( … ) Repeat section in curved brackets into one stitch or space
SCHEMATIC – PART 6
PATTERN – PART 6
You will build part 6 onto the right side of the CAL;
· With the right side facing you will work on the row ends of part 5, then across part 4, then on the row ends of part 5 again.
· We will be adding rows, working from the bottom upwards, where there isn’t a st you will use post of sts of the row ends of Part 5.
· The ch3 counts as the first st, if this produces too much of a gap at the start of a row it can be substituted for a ch2.
· The ch1 at the start of a row doesn’t count as a stitch.
· You will not count the sl st’s of row 5 in your stitch count when instructed to miss sts.
· If you find that your rows are pulling into the centre you may wish to use a larger hook for this section e.g. 4mm (US size G/6).
Row 1 (RS): Sl st to join YARN H around the post of the last st of Part 5; ch3, 1dc in the same st,[ miss st at end of the next row, 2dc around the post of the next st ] repeat from [ … ] evenly fourteen times on Part 3, 1dc in the corner of Part 4, BPdc in the next 123sts of Part 4, 1dc in the corner of Part 4, 2dc around the post of the next 2sts [miss st at the end of the next row, 2dc around the post of the next st], repeat { … ] evenly twelve times more on the row ends of Part 5, turn. 62 dc / 123 BPdc / 185 sts
Row 2: Ch3, 1dc in the next st, [ch1, miss st, 1dc in the next 3sts] repeat { … ] across until the last 3sts, ch1, miss st, 1dc in the last 2sts, turn. 139 dc / 46 x ch1-sps
Row 3: Ch3, 1dc in each st across, turn. 185 dc
Row 4 (WS) : Ch3, 1dc in the next st, [ch2, miss 2sts, PF in the next st, ch2, miss 2sts, 1dc in the next 3sts ] repeat { … ] across another twenty-one times, ch2, miss 2sts, PF in the next st, ch2, miss 2sts, 1dc in the last 2sts. 70 dc / 46 x ch2-sps / 23 PF
Row 5: Ch1, 1sc in the next st, sl st in the next st, [miss 2 ch, 7dcCl in the top of the next PF st, miss 2 ch, sl st in the top of the next dc, ch4, miss next st, sl st in the top of the next dc] repeat { … ] across another twenty-one times, miss 2 ch, 7dcCl in the top of the next PF st, miss 2 ch, sl st in the top of the next dc, 1sc in the last st, turn. 23 x 7dcCl / 22 x ch4-sps / 2 sc
Row 6: Ch6 (counts as dc + ch3), [ miss 3sts, 1 sc in the top centre dc of the 7dcCl, ch3, miss 3sts, 1hdc in the ch4-sp, ch3 ] repeat from { … ] across another twenty-one times, miss 3sts, 1 sc in the top centre of the 7dcCl, miss 3sts, 1dc in the last st, turn. 2dc / 22 hdc / 23 sc / 46 x ch3-sps
Row 7: Ch3, [ 3dc in the next ch3-sp, 1dc in the next sc, 3dc in the next ch3-sp, 1dc in the next hdc ] repeat { … ] across another twenty-one times, 3dc in the next ch3-sp, 1dc in the next sc, 3dc in the next ch3-sp, 1dc in the last st, turn. 185 dc
Rows 8 – 13: Repeat rows 2 – 7
Rows 14—15: Repeat rows 2 – 3. 185 sts
Fasten off and weave in ends.
Reattach YARN H to the opposite side of your work and repeat rows 1 – 15. Fasten off and weave in ends.
And that’s it! Part 6 completed! I hope you’ve enjoyed the start and I can’t wait to se your mushrooms sprout from Parts 4 and 5!
The Schedule, Updates & Support:
As always if you need a reminder of the schedule then you can find the details on the CAL landing page (here) and you can keep up to date with the CAL details and get support if needed via the following links:
As I may have mentioned before the Facebook group is a lovely place of support, there are crocheters in there of all experiences, with new crocheters joining all the time! It’s likely that someone will be able to help you with any questions you might have though of course you can always contact me too here on the blog if you need any help.
The hashtag for this years CAL is #KCACOUKCAL23 for Twitter and Instagram. Though you you can join in with any progress photos by linking your projects on your favourite social media sites: Ravelry, Facebook page or Facebook group and Pinterest.
Thank you for crocheting along with me – the next eleven weeks are going to be so much fun!
Until next time; keep calm and crochet on my friends xx
Please note that some of the links in my blog are affiliate links. I may earn a small commission if you purchase via these links, but the price you pay is not affected. You can read more about my affiliate links here.
“Red and yellow and pink and green, purple and orange and blue, I can sing a rainbow, sing a rainbow, sing a rainbow too!” Envelop yourself in rainbows with the Chevron Spectrum Wrap!
Today I’m doing an independent release of the rainbow Chevron Spectrum Wrap which first appeared in in Happily HookedMagazine (Issue 94) back in January 2022.
This colourful piece is sure to put a smile on your face! It was one of my absolute favourite makes of 2022 and was inspired by both the yarn and my idea for the stitch which I think came together perfectly.
I used a Scheepjes Whirl in Jumping Jelly (shade 759) combined with a Scheepjes Whirlette in Chewy (shade 865) with a 3.25mm hook (US size D/3).
Both the whirls and the whirlettes are a 60% Cotton, 40% Acrylic 4ply (fingering weight). The larger whirl comes in a 220g (1000 metres) cake, and the whirlettes are 100g (455m) solid colour balls designed to compliment whirl colours. However I wanted a bit of a stormy contrast to my rainbow which is why I chose the grey.
This delightful chevron wrap is perfect for combining solid and gradient yarn for an overall fun zig zag ombre effect, the whirls are perfect though I’ve also seen some beautiful versions using hand-dyed yarn – you could substitute with any similar sock / fingering weight yarns (though you may wish to check your gauge).
The pattern is available in both UK and US terms and I’ve included a chart as a helpful visual guide. The wrap is worked in row repeat making it a nice mindful pattern once you get into the swing of things. I would suggest it’s suitable for a more intermediate crocheter – though there is nothing to stop an adventurous beginner having a go!
You can purchase an ad-free PDF Pattern with the instructions and pictures in a nice document, which you can print and take notes on without relying on your phone or an internet connection, via the links to your favourite pattern plaform below:
If you like this pattern please give it a love, or leave a comment or review on the platform you got it from when you’ve made it up, as a small biz all support and shares are very much appreciated! I hope you’ll share any finished photos with me on social media (facebook, twitter or instagram) or as a project on Ravelry – I love to see what you make! And finally you may wish to make sure you are signed up to blog (below) and / or my mailing list to get a reminder when new blog posts, discounts or new pattern releases are available.
Until next time folks! Happy hooking, keep calm and crochet on my friends xx
Please note that some of the links in my blog are affiliate links. I may earn a small commission if you purchase via these links, but the price you pay is not affected.
