I Like Crochet Magazine | Frosted Forest Houndstooth Wrap

Posted in Crochet, Crochet Accessories, Inspiration, Magazine, Pattern Release, Tah-Dah, Yarn by Keep Calm and Crochet On UK

As we cosy up for the winter season, I’m thrilled to share my latest project: the Frosted Forest Houndstooth Wrap, a beautiful addition to any winter wardrobe that’s as stylish as it is comfortable. Featured in the December edition of I Like Crochet magazine, this wrap brings together a classic houndstooth stitch pattern with a modern frosty colour scheme that’s perfect for colder months.

Close-up of the Frosted Forest Houndstooth Wrap showcasing the intricate houndstooth pattern with a soft, textured finish, highlighting the cosy, woven details of the crochet stitches. — © I Like Crochet magazine December 2024

Houndstooth is one of those timeless patterns that I think always adds a touch of sophistication, and this wrap is no exception. The Frosted Forest Houndstooth Wrap combines contrasting tones to create that bold, traditional checkered effect while still feeling soft and subtle. With a gorgeous drape and enough length to wrap yourself up comfortably, it’s ideal for layering over your favourite winter outfits, whether you’re heading out for a brisk winter walk or curling up with a book by the fire.

I used Scheepjes Colour Crafter for this wrap; it’s a yarn I’ve used for many projects and it never disappoints! This DK (light worsted) yarn is a premium 100% acrylic (328 yarns [300mters] / 100g) that’s wonderfully soft with a smooth, even texture. Plus, it’s hypoallergenic, making it perfect for clothing and wraps that need to be both snug and gentle on the skin.

Three balls of yarn in soft hues sit on a table top surrounded by crochet notions, a small potted plant, and a steaming cup of tea, creating a cosy crafting scene.

One of my favourite things about this pattern is the soothing rhythm of crocheting the houndstooth design, it’s repetitive enough to be a relaxing experience — perfect for an evening by the fire with a cup of tea. The houndstooth pattern is created through simple colour changes, so if you’ve been wanting to dip your toes into colorwork, this is a fabulous project to try – a great pattern for beginners.

The wrap pairs well with neutral outfits and works wonders with winter whites and forest greens, embracing the essence of a snowy woodland. For those who love a bit of a twist on classic style, the houndstooth design here is a fantastic way to make a statement without overwhelming your look.

The Frosted Forest Houndstooth Wrap is styled as a long, cozy scarf around a mannequin, set against a lush background of ivy. The classic houndstooth pattern contrasts beautifully with the greenery, enhancing the wrap’s warm texture and elegant drape.

If you’re already subscribed to I Like Crochet, you can find the Frosted Forest Houndstooth Wrap in their current issue. It’s a project that will not only elevate your crochet skills but will also add a stunning piece to your winter collection. And for those new to houndstooth, this wrap is a perfect introduction to this classic pattern.

If you haven’t heard of I Like Crochet magazine before it’s a US bi-monthly digital magazine which is published by the creators of AllFreeCrochet.com. With it being a US publication patterns are written using US crochet terminology – if you are not sure how that differs you may find my post British vs. American Crochet Terms: What’s the difference? of use.

💕 SAVE THE FROSTED FOREST HOUNDSTOOTH WRAP ON RAVELRY 💕

The Frosted Forest Houndstooth Wrap is elegantly draped around a mannequin against a plain background, showcasing its classic houndstooth pattern and soft, cosy texture. The wrap’s generous length and stylish drape highlight its versatility for winter layering. — © I Like Crochet magazine December 2024

As well as my wrap pattern the December 2024 edition features loads of lovely seasonal patterns and a range of interesting articles. If you SUBSCRIBE you 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 Frosted Forest Houndstooth Wrap 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.

10Oct2024

A Decade of Crafting Joy with I Like Crochet with Special Offer

Posted in Crochet, Crochet Accessories, Inspiration, Magazine, Sale / Special Offer by Keep Calm and Crochet On UK

This year I Like Crochet magazine is celebrating their 10th birthday! It made me realise that I’ve been working with I Like Crochet for the past 8 years, and I honestly can’t believe how fast the time has flown! It feels like just yesterday when I first contributed, and now, looking back, I’m amazed at how much we’ve grown together.

Text I Like Crochet, Decade of Crochet, Editors' Top 10 Favourite Patterns alongside colourful photos of 10 different crochet designs.

If you haven’t heard of I Like Crochet magazine before it’s a US bi-monthly digital magazine which is published by the creators of AllFreeCrochet.com. To celebrate their 10-year milestone, editors Nicola and Caitlin each set out to choose five of their favourite patterns, I can’t even imagine how difficult a job that was out of the hundreds of patterns they’ve published over the years. But of those ten patterns I was delighted, and very honoured, to see they’d chosen one of my designs, and it’s actually one of my favourites too.

Nicola chose the Sandstone Shawl which was a design that was published a couple of years ago for a summer edition of I Like Crochet. It’s a large wrap which utilises King Cole Opium yarn that creates the unique textured and lacy look – and I love, love, LOVED how it turned out!

The crocheted Sandstone Shawl which was featured in the August 2022 edition of I Like Crochet magazine. — © I Like Crochet – August 2022

“I had a vision for this design, and Heather rose to the challenge, exceeding my expectations. In my quest to make summer crochet more prominent and popular, I imagined a Stevie Nicks, boho moment with this shawl in a field of tall grasses. During the photoshoot, I remember not wanting to move on to the next piece because this shawl was so magical to photograph. The texture of the yarn and the combination of stitches truly came together to create this boho dream shawl.” – Nicola, Editor

💕 SAVE THE SANDSTONE SHAWL ON RAVELRY 💕

How lovely were her comments! ❤️ It got me thinking about what my favourite ten patterns were that I’ve designed for I Like Crochet over the years. It was a tricky one but I narrowed it down to:

Cherry Blossom Wrap (Apr 2016)
Tahoe Scarf and Hat (Feb 2022)
Sandstone Shawl (Aug 2022)
Evie Pom Hat (Oct 2021)
Anchor Cove Shawl (Jun 2021)

Delani Diamond C2C scarf (Aug 2023
Dale the Woodland Deer (Oct 2019)
Chevron Flair Cowl (Aug 2020)
Puppy Love Coin Purse (Feb 2022)
Dachshund thru’ the snow (Dec 2018)

Collage of the favourite ten designs that I have had published in I Like Crochet Magazine over the years.

It was really interested to see the Editors reflect on their favourite designs, from cardigans to decorative pillows, with each design each telling a unique story. You can read their full blog post on the I Like Crochet website: Celebrating a Decade of Creativity: I Like Crochet’s 10th Birthday.

I’m delighted to say to celebrate I Like Crochet are offering you, my lovely readers, a special discount, you can get a years subscription for just $10 / approx £7.62 for a whole YEAR! As well as the magazine you get access to all back issues (over 700+ patterns) and loads of other great content – it’s such a bargain! You can get the magazine straight to your desktop or iPad .

Go to I Like Crochet Special Offer

10 Years of I Like Crochet! Collage of fun crochet sayings like everyday is a good day to crochet.

They also have a load of other giveaways happening this month, open to US and Canadian followers, where winners will be announced in early November;

Lion Brand Vanna’s Choice for Wild Rose Crochet Pillow
Knit Picks Dishie for Vibrant Vistas Kitchen Towel Set
Universal Yarn Colorburst for Alpenglow Cardigan
Lion Brand Cover Story Lazy Days Thick and Quick for Bean Stitch Crossbody Bag
Expression Fiber Arts Luster Sport for Chic Twist Top
Cascade Yarns 220 Superwash for Fringe Fever Poncho

So all that’s left for me to say is congratulations I Like Crochet on the success of your magazine for the last decade! I look forward to continuing our partnership for the next 10 years and beyond!

If you hook up (or have made) the Sandstone Shawl, 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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16Oct2023

Pattern Re-release | Pumpkin Pal Bib

Posted in Crochet, For Baby, Holidays, Magazine, Pattern Release by Keep Calm and Crochet On UK

What’s October without a mass influx of pumpkins!! And today I’m going to share another one with you with my Pumpkin Pal Bib. A quick and easy pattern to whip up for any little pumpkin babes!

A cute toddler is wearing a cute crocheted pumpkin bib whilst she is holding onto a jack-o-lantern

Something I’ve not been the greatest at doing is keeping up with re-releasing designs where the pattern rights have come back to me. I think today’s pattern is possibly one of the oldest I’d not previously re-formated! Originally featured in the 2017 October edition of I Like Crochet magazine it’s only taken me XX amount of years to finally sort it out – opps!

It’s now been updated for 2023 with availability in both UK and US crochet terminology.

Close up of the Pumpkin Pal bib hanging up against a white background.

But let me tell you about the pattern; designed for easy make-ability this jack-o’-lantern style baby bib is just perfect for Halloween. It doesn’t take long to make and you could easily hook one or two up in time for 31 October.

For this bib I original used Garnstudio Drops Cotton Paris (100% Cotton; 82 yards, [75 meters 110 meters]/50 grams) with a 3.75mm (US size F/5) hook but any Aran / Worsted weight cotton would work.

For your bib you need at least four colours I used; colour number 13 Orange (A), 2 balls; colour number 43: Green (B), 1 ball; colour number 16: White (C), 1 ball; colour number 15: Black (D), 1 ball. Other than that you would need some stitch markers and a yarn needle to sew all the pieces together.

A couple of photos of the toddler wearing the crocheted pumpkin pal bib

The pattern is now available from my usual pattern stores for you to make your own version at the links below:

And if you’re looking for some more Halloween themed projects then I have several others to choose from that you might enjoy…

A trio of life sized crocheted pumpkins are grouped together on a patio

Life Sized Pumpkins

Crochet kit for a group of teeny tiny pumpkins from KCACOUK Designs Etsy store

Teeny Tiny Pumpkin Crochet Kit

A couple of cute crocheted monsters are gobbling down sweets into their mouths

Sweet Treat Eaters

Top down view of a trio of crocheted pumpkins in orange, tan and green. Free pattern on the KCACOUK Blog.

Quick and Slick Pumpkins (FREE)

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.

PIN FOR LATER:

Pinterest collage of the crocheted Pumpkin Pal Bib

6Jul2023

I Like Crochet Magazine | Delani Diamond C2C Scarf

Posted in Crochet, Crochet Accessories, Inspiration, Magazine, Pattern Release, Tah-Dah, Yarn by Keep Calm and Crochet On UK

Hi there! How are you all doing? It’s been a couple of weeks since my last post; life and stuff has just been so busy that there doesn’t seem to have been much time for anything else! However, I am still beavering away on various projects behind the scenes and one of them I can finally share with you. Allow me to introduce the Delani Diamond C2C scarf which I created for the August 2023 edition of I Like Crochet magazine.

A young woman looks straight at the camera, she is wearing the colourful Delani Diamond C2C crochet scarf. — © I Like Crochet – August 2023

Although summer is in full swing before we know it we’ll be swapping iced tea for hot cider and our t-shirts and shorts for something warmer – and as crafters it’s always good to get a head start on a project!

The Delani Diamond C2C scarf is a crochet design that combines an eye-catching chequered pattern created with the engaging corner-to-corner (C2C) method. I really enjoyed making this project and I love how it turned out; those big blocky diamonds were just the look I was aiming to create.

The blue, cream, burgandy and rust Delani Diamond Crochet C2C scarf is shown on a white mannikin against a backdrop of ivy.

For my scarf I used the gorgeously soft and squishy Knit Picks Wool of the Andes Worsted which is a 100% Peruvian Highland wool. The strong fiber has an excellent balance of structure, loft, and drape that serves a wide variety of uses and works very well for a scarf. It also has excellent stitch definition which you can see with the gentle texture you get with C2C designs.

I’ve used the Knit Picks Wool of the Andes Bulky before, and really liked it, and I can say the same for the worsted (Aran weight) yarn. It’s really lovely to work with, really nice and soft and with a plied twist so it’s not splitty. I used a 5mm hook (US size H/8) which is in the range of the hook suggested (between 4mm – 5.5mm / US size G/6 – I/9) for the yarn.

Close up of a basket of Knitpicks Wool of the Andes yarn in worsted weight. The colours are cream, burgandy, blue and rust.

There are so many colours to choose from in this range but I couldn’t resist the ones I chose as they all had ‘Heather’ in the name of them – so literally made for me! I used Mink Heather the lovely creamy beige , Delft Heather a gorgeous royal blue, Persimmon Heather the fabulously rich rust colour and Rooibos Heather the beautiful rich maroon colour to make up my ‘diamonds’.

💕 SAVE THE DELANI DIAMOND C2C SCARF ON RAVELRY 💕

Full length photos of a woman looking straight to camera snuggling into the colourful Delani Diamond C2C crochet scarf. — © I Like Crochet – August 2023

This scarf is sure to turn heads and add a touch of style to your outfit. Just follow the pattern and watch the checked design come to life stitch by stitch. Whether you’re new to crochet or have some experience under your belt, this project is well within your reach.

And it was such a delight to see that the Delani Diamond C2C scarf was this months cover star! As well as my scarf pattern the August 2023 edition features loads of lovely seasonal patterns and a range of interesting articles. If you SUBSCRIBE you can get the magazine straight to your desktop or iPad as well as access to lots of other extra crochet bonus material.

Front cover of I Like Crochet Magazine - August 2023

If you hook up the Delani Diamond C2C scarf 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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22Mar2023

I Like Crochet Magazine | Patchwork Puppy

Posted in Crochet, Crochet Accessories, Inspiration, Magazine, Pattern Release, Tah-Dah, Yarn by Keep Calm and Crochet On UK

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 cute close up of a crocheted peach, teal, pink and yellow amigurumi patchwork puppy sitting in a little mint green chair. — © I Like Crochet – April 2023

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.

The back view of the crocheted peach, teal, pink and yellow amigurumi patchwork puppy showing his tail.

The only other things you will need to make the pup are stitch markers, a tapestry needle and some toy stuffing and a needle and sewing thread.

💕 SAVE THE PATCHWORK PUPPY ON RAVELRY 💕

Close up of a crocheted peach, teal, pink and yellow amigurumi patchwork puppy on a white background.

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 SUBSCRIBE you can get the magazine straight to your desktop or iPad as well as access to lots of other extra crochet bonus material.

Front cover image of the I Like Crochet e-magazine for April 2023 — © I Like Crochet – April 2023

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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21Mar2023

I Like Crochet Magazine | Countryside Pillow

Posted in Crochet, Crochet Accessories, Inspiration, Magazine, Pattern Release, Tah-Dah, Yarn by Keep Calm and Crochet On UK

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.

A textured cushion, featuring a pattern inspired by the English countryside, rests on a white chair. — © I Like Crochet – April 2023

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!

Side view of the crocheted Countryside Pillow. Pattern available in the April issue of I Like Crochet magazine. — © I Like Crochet – April 2023

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.

Image of several John Arbon Textile mini Appledores in seven vibrant colours on a desk, a hand is reaching into the scene to hold up the yarn tag towards the camera.

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.

The only other things you will need to make your pillow is a tapestry needle, scissors, 14 inch (36cm) cream zip and a 16×16 inch cushion inner.

💕 SAVE THE COUNTRYSIDE PILLOW ON RAVELRY 💕

Close up of the crocheted Countryside pillow showing vibrant colours and texture. — © I Like Crochet – April 2023

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 SUBSCRIBE you can get the magazine straight to your desktop or iPad as well as access to lots of other extra crochet bonus material.

Until next time folks! Happy hooking and keep calm and crochet on my friends xx

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17Mar2023

I Like Crochet Magazine | Bouquet Bobby Pins and Barrette

Posted in Crochet, Crochet Accessories, Inspiration, Magazine, Pattern Release, Tah-Dah, Yarn by Keep Calm and Crochet On UK

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.

Image of some brightly coloured floral crocheted hair accessories on a white background — © I Like Crochet – April 2023

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.

A woman in a blue vest top stands with her back to the camera against a white background. She has her hand adjusting a floral crochet hair accessory in her long blonde hair. — © I Like Crochet – April 2023

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.

Image of a basket of Scheepjes Maxi Sweet Treat in six vibrant colours on a desk, a hand is reaching out to grab the bright pink Freesia colour.

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.

💕 SAVE BOUQUET BOBBY PINS AND BARRETTE ON RAVELRY 💕

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 SUBSCRIBE you can get the magazine straight to your desktop or iPad as well as access to lots of other extra crochet bonus material.

Close up of two floral crochet hair pins pinned at the side in blonde hair.

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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13Sep2022

I Like Crochet Magazine | Tilly the Pony

Posted in Crochet, Crochet Accessories, Inspiration, Magazine, Pattern Release, Tah-Dah, Yarn by Keep Calm and Crochet On UK

This morning, on the school run, I definitely felt that first bit of a chill in the air. It’s a sign that Autumn is on it’s way; but luckily I Like Crochet magazine have put together a lovely collection of seasonal patterns for you – this time with a definite nod to Equestrian chic! Which ties in nicely with the pattern I’ve got in the October 2022 issue – meet Tilly the Pony.

Brightly coloured leaves cover the ground which you kick in the air as you make your way down to the stables … and there you will find Tilly the Pony, with a soft mane that blows in the breeze and a big kissable nose, ready for a canter in the Autumn sunshine. Tilly is a sweet little pony amigurumi that will capture the hearts of adults and children alike.

I used Scheepjes Stonewashed (Sport Weight) for Tilly, in Moon Stone (801), Black Onyx (803) and Brown Agate (822) with a 3mm hook (closest US size D/3 or C/2).

If you’re not familiar with Scheepjes Stonewashed it’s a blended yarn made up from 22% acrylic and 78% cotton yarn that comes in 50g balls (130m / 142yds), it’s durable but soft and is available in 36 colours all associated with ‘gems and stones’. I’ve used it for lots of my designs as I love the stone washed look of the yarn and the stitch definition you get with the cotton blend – it’s perfect for amigurumi.

The only other things you will need for Tilly are 2 x 8mm black safety eyes, some toy stuffing and I used some cream coloured roving yarn for mane (though you could make your mane out of some more of the Moon Stone yarn).

I think that Tilly would make a great gift for any pony or horse lover, and could even be matched to a real life equine buddy – now that would be super cute!

I would suggest this amigurumi would a fun and easy introduction into toy making for a beginner crocheter. Everything is worked in the round, with a bit of simple shaping to create the perfect pony shape.

💕 SAVE TILLY THE PONY AMIGURUMI ON RAVELRY 💕

As well as my pony the October 2022 edition features loads of lovely seasonal patterns and a range of interesting articles. If you SUBSCRIBE you 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 Tilly the Pony, 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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15Jul2022

I Like Crochet Magazine | Briar Blanket

Posted in Crochet, Crochet Accessories, Inspiration, Magazine, Pattern Release, Tah-Dah, Yarn by Keep Calm and Crochet On UK

In the sunny days of summer it might seem strange to count down the days until autumn – but it’s always nice to get ahead for the next season (especially as crochet takes time!). In the August issue of I Like Crochet magazine they’ve included 15 First Fall patterns and I’m excited to say that my second pattern, the Briar Blanket, is included in this section.

Briar, meaning “thorny bush of wild roses” is the name of the blanket filled with textured stitches and rose-inspired hues of deep maroon and soft taupe. This chunky blanket, with its large feature tassels, would make a perfect addition to style up your bed – or to keep as a throw on your sofa getting ready for when those nights turn cooler.

I used the delectable Knit Picks Wool of the Andes Bulky for this blanket, which was a new yarn to me, and is sooo nice! Plump and squishy and available in 20 different colours, Knit Picks Wool of the Andes Bulky is a heavy weight yarn that works up quickly for thick and cushy projects.

Spun from Peruvian wool, the yarn is strong and durable with excellent stitch definition. It’s classed as a bulky (chunky weight) yarn which is 100% wool and comes in 100g hanks (137yds / 125m).

The shades I used for the blanket were Currant 28211(A, 6 balls), Gosling 28214 (B, 12 balls) and Fedora 28212 (C, 4 balls) with a 6mm (US size J/10) hook (which is amongst the suggested hook sizes).

Throws are perfect for keeping you toasty in front of the tv or reading a book in bed. Make in three muted complementary colours for a chic solution or go bold with some bright shades to update an old chair.

I would suggest this intricate blanket is an intermediate pattern, that feels sumptuous and decadent made in lux yarn, and that would make a cosy addition to your summer-to-autumn home décor.

💕 SAVE THE BRIAR BLANKET ON RAVELRY 💕

As well as my wrap the August 2022 edition features loads of lovely seasonal patterns and a range of interesting articles. If you SUBSCRIBE you 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 Briar Blanket, 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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12Jul2022

I Like Crochet Magazine | Sandstone Shawl

Posted in Crochet, Crochet Accessories, Inspiration, Magazine, Pattern Release, Tah-Dah, Yarn by Keep Calm and Crochet On UK

The August issue of I Like Crochet magazine is here and I’m super excited to say I’ve got TWO patterns in this edition. I’m rather proud of both designs, so I thought I’d write a separate blog post about each of them so I can tell you about them properly. First up is a crocheted wrap design called the Sandstone Shawl.

The Sandstone Shawl is an accessory which utilises yarn that varies in thickness to achieve a textured and lacy look. Tassels added to the centre of the shawl add a visual interest alongside open diamond motifs – and I love, love, LOVE how it turned out!

I used King Cole Opium for this shawl which I’d not used before but which I wanted to try as it just looks different and unusual. I think it’s no secret that I’m a bit in love with slubby textured yarns at the moment, especially after working the Whispers of the Sea Wrap and the Mellow Mallow Shawl.

If you were looking for a commercial type of slub yarn then I’d suggest this yarn could come close. It’s classed as a fashion yarn which has thick and thin sections along it’s length, a bit like slub yarn. When it’s worked up it creates such a beautiful textured mixture of lace and opaque – perfect for both summer and winter projects.

I’m a huge fan of textured crochet pieces and the beauty of this yarn is that it creates the texture for you – did I say yet how much I LOVE how the yarn worked up for this design!

King Cole Opium is 54% cotton, 42% acrylic and 4% Polyamide yarn and comes in 100g balls (273yds / 250m). The shade I used for the wrap was actually called Sandstone (1085) which is partially where the name of the wrap came from. My original inspiration for this shawl came from sandstone clay formations which are full of wonderful ridges and curves – so the name and colour of the yarn shared a bit of a serendipitous moment!

King Cole Opium is actually available in 7 other different colours and I used 6 balls in total to create a nice large wrap (approx. 79″ long x 22” wide / 200cm long x 56cm wide). The suggested hook size for this yarn is a 6mm (US size J/10) though I used a 4.5mm hook (US size 7) as I wanted my lacy sections to not be too oversized.

I would suggest this is a pattern that adventurous beginners would enjoy, the Sandstone Shawl is a trendy yet practical shawl with a nice pattern repeat which is easy to follow once you get used to it.

Make in beautiful natural tones for a chic outfit solution for the season ahead, it’s a great statement piece for layering. The textured yarn is light enough to be airy and yet still feel cosy enough to snuggle into as the seasons turn colder.

💕 SAVE THE SANDSTONE SHAWL ON RAVELRY 💕

If you hook up the Sandstone Shawl, 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