I’m so excited to share my latest free pattern, created in collaboration with Utopia Crafts, that’s perfect for those crisp mornings, cosy evenings, and everything in between — the Cedar Hollow Shawl.
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There’s something incredibly peaceful about a project that flows under your hook. The Cedar Hollow Shawl is just that – designed with simplicity and versatility in mind. It’s ideal if you want:
✨ A cosy wrap to wear over jeans and a tee ✨ A shawl to snuggle into with a cuppa ✨ A slow-stitch project that feels meditative and easy on the soul
The pattern has been thoughtfully designed so that you can enjoy the process, not just the finished piece – perfect for relaxing evenings with your favourite playlist or podcast.
For this project, I used Utopia Crafts Perfect Aran Ombre crafted from 100% acrylic and which comes as an extra-large 300g ball offering approximately 600 metres (656 yards). What’s nice about this yarn is that it’s certified to the OEKO-TEX® Standard 100, which means that this yarn has been independently tested to ensure it’s free from harmful substances. It’s also 100% vegan – completely free from animal-derived materials, making it a great choice for eco-conscious crafters.
I used a whole ball of the Perfect Aran Ombre with a 6mm (US size H/8) hook and it makes a really reasonably large and cosy triangular shawl. The only other thing that you might want to consider using is some stitch markers to help mark the start and finish of each row.
As the yarn is an Aran weight yarn, this pattern works up super quickly and with only simple stitches its perfect for beginners, while more seasoned crocheters can appreciate the opportunity to relax with a project that doesn’t require intense concentration.
There are loads of beautiful shades of Perfect Aran Ombre so you could lots of different variations of this shawl – I can’t wait to see what you come up with. Make it in a neutral for everyday wear, or choose pops of colour for a bold statement. I finished off my shawl with some big chunky tassels but if tassels aren’t your thing it also looks great without.
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 at no extra cost to you. This helps to cover the running cost of the website – thank you for your support.
Hi there, and welcome! This post is all about looking back on my crochet adventures from 2025. I always find yearly reviews so helpful – it’s funny how quickly I forget what I’ve accomplished once my thoughts jump straight to the next idea.
As we begin another year together, I want to start by saying the biggest THANK YOU to each and every one of you. 💖 Whether you’ve purchased a pattern, tried a kit, joined a make-along, or simply liked, shared, or commented on my blog posts or social media, your support truly means the world to me.
In the January I released the new Sleepy Bear Wash Cloth, and I also shared the FREE Paperback Patch Square I was going to use for my year long Book Afghan project for 2025. I’m hoping to share the finished book blanket soon alongside my plans for my book challenge for 2026 as I enjoyed 2025 so much. I also shared my plans for My Hand-Dyed Yarn Challenge 2025 more of which I’ll talk about later – but in a nutshell it didn’t go quite to plan!
I also released my Merry Marble Cowl which was the finished design for the Merry Marbles Makealong which was the winter 2024 collaboration between myself, The Yarn Whisperer, and Mrs G Makes – I’ve remade this cowl again recently and it’s definitely one of my favourite makes in recent years.
Merry Marbles Cowl (Feb 2025)
March / April 2025
March / April was extremely busy with another six designs that I enjoyed creating. First I was thrilled to have three patterns published in issue 119 of Crochet Now magazine including Cinderwhiskers the Cat, Millie & Mollie the Mushroom Twins and the Heatherside Blanket all of which form part of my favourite patterns of this year.
I was also delighted to have a pattern shared in Inside Crochet magazine with the Chevron Neck Tie and another design in April for issue 120 of Crochet Now the nautically cute Captain Beakerson. Then I also released the FREE Easter Egg Belly Buddies – cute little guys which have a hollow tummy, just the right size for tucking in a chocolate egg or a tiny treat.
Easter Belly Buddies (Apr 2025)
May / June 2025
In May I released our popular Curtis the Cactus crochet kit, with his dashing moustache, sun-kissed yellow sun visor, and laid-back messenger bag slung over his shoulder, Curtis has been making a cool addition to desks, plant shelves, and window sills everywhere.
Curtis the Cactus (May 2025)
I also released the new Diamond Daydream Baby Blanket which has also been well received – I love the thought of one of my designs wrapping up a baby somewhere ❤️. Then another filet crochet project released shortly afterwards was the Oriana Wrap in Crochet Now Issue 121. I do love a filet crochet project and I’m sure there will be more in 2026.
Special mention for June’s makes of Peanuts Crochet Collection that I had the opportunity to make for the Crochet Society. I loved making these guys and the kits are still available if you want to make them too, you can find the links to each of the kits on my blog post.
Peanuts Collection – Crochet Society 2025
June also saw the Bright Burst Baskets published in Simply Crochet magazine and Triple the Fun in Crochet Now Issue 122 with Scoops the Panda, Moominmamma and Moominpappa and the Sunshade Scallops Shawlette. Finally at the end of June I released the Janus Keyhole Scarf designed to showcase your favourite skeins of hand dyed yarn – in fact I think I might make myself another one of these at some point.
Janus Keyhole Scarf (Jun 2025)
July / August 2025
In July, I was delighted to take part once again in the Furls Designer Blog Hop 2025, releasing the FREE Forester Shawl – a big, bold, and incredibly cosy design, perfect for those in-between seasons. I also shared a blog post about the fun I had at Carry On Crafting over the summer. Then in August I created the two marshfellows, Coco and Puff, and a bit later Redfern the Squirrel for Crochet Now magazine, and also the Mandala Medallion Square for Simply Crochet’s Granny Square Day 2025.
Forester Shawl (Aug 2025)
Without doubt one of my favourite commissions was in August when I got to relive my childhood by creating the Carebear Crochet Collection for the Crochet Society. I loved making these bears, and like the Peanuts collection the kits are still available if you want to make them too, you can find the links to each of the bears on this blog post.
Carebear Collection – Crochet Society 2025
September / October 2025
The start of September brought more Care Bears, but this time in tiny Halloween-themed versions — perfect for a little seasonal fun! 🎃👻 And in the same issue of Crochet Now magazine, you could also find Spooktail the Cat, adding a touch of spooky charm to your hooky projects.
In October, I finally got around to a couple of pattern re-releases, including Perfectly Plaid Basket and the Patchwork Braid Pillow, bringing these designs back into circulation for new and returning makers alike.
Patchwork Braid Cushion (Oct 2025)
I was also excited to start working with Utopia Crafts, sharing the FREE Utopia Neutral Pumpkin on their website – a quick, cosy seasonal project for anyone wanting a touch of autumnal charm.
And finally, I had the absolute pleasure of designing Totally Hooked Box 57 for The Crochet Society, which featured three distinct patterns: Festive Snoopy, Arctic Whisper Hat & Mitts, and the Winter Wonderland Stocking. Each one offered a little bit of seasonal magic to crochet into your home and wardrobe.
November / December 2025
At the start of November I wrote a blog post about my visit to see the Longest Yarn 2 exhibition (which is you get the chance to visit I highly recommend). You may also remember that in November 2024 I re-released my Poppy pattern to support the Royal British Legion and their poppy campaign. I’m thrilled to share that the pattern has raised over £600 in 2025 — absolutely incredible! ❤️ I really hope we can continue to raise money for this cause in 2026.
Then in December I shared more Christmassy makes but I started off with Hamish the Highland Cow crochet kit, who has been the star of our shows throughout the year. I also shared my delight in having 8 different seasonal patterns published in the Christmas Amigurumi Bookazine, including Father Christmas, Mrs Claus, Tinsel the Elf, Cinnamon the Gingerbreadman, Dasher the Reindeer and Crispin the Snowman. I then shared another three new tree decoration crochet kits with the Teddy Stocking, Angel and Santa kits.
So what can you look forward to in 2026? Well, if I’m being completely honest, this is the year I really need to concentrate on getting some patterns released. It’s been such a busy time behind the scenes that actually sitting down and finishing patterns for release has proved trickier than planned – but this year I’m making it a proper priority. This may mean I’m remaking some old designs to give them a bit of a refresh which is something else I’ll be trying to make time for this year.
And yes… I know I said it last year, but 2026 is definitely the year of the WIP purge! I’m determined to finish up those long-standing works-in-progress and clear some space (both physically and creatively) before adding too many new ones to the pile.
Alongside that, I’m hoping to squeeze in some more fun too – including a few personal crochet challenges, some exciting new blog hops, and of course collaborations that I can’t wait to share with you. There are also plans in motion for new designs appearing in some of your favourite crochet magazines, which is always something I look forward to revealing. All in all, it’s shaping up to be another creative year, just with a little more focus and intention this time around.
I’d love to hear from you. What did you finish in 2025, or what are you most looking forward to making in 2026? Drop me a comment below and let’s have a chat 💬🧶
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.
It’s time to add a festive flourish to your holiday wardrobe! Introducing the Mrs Claus Hair Bow – a quick and fun crochet accessory that’s perfect for gifting or making for yourself this Christmas season. Whether you’re decking your hair for a holiday party or stitching up little handmade gifts, this adorable bow will add a touch of jolly charm to every look!
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Before we get into the pattern, let’s talk about something wonderfully festive happening this year…
🎄 24 Days of Quickies – Crochet FUN Daily
Have you heard? Marly Bird’s 24 Days of Quickies event is back for 2025! 🎁 This annual holiday tradition brings you 24 days of fast, gift-worthy crochet and knit projects, with new free patterns released daily from December 1st through December 24th. There’s a mix of crochet and knitting designs – all perfect for handmade gifting, last-minute holiday ideas, or just keeping your hook busy in the cosiest season of the year!
Each day a brand new free pattern becomes available – but remember, those pattern PDFs are free for only 24 hours, so don’t miss out! Many designers are joining in with fun, including me, with easy makes that you can easily stitch in just a couple of hours. If you’re planning to make gifts this year, this event is a fantastic way to get inspired and make lots of quick, festive projects!
Now let’s stitch something cute of our own! Or if you are here as part of the Marly Bird’s 24 Days of Quickies in December 2025 then click on the button to get your free PDF.
About the Pattern
For this project, I used a two balls of red (0034) and one ball of white (0034) Sirdar Happy Chenille which come in irresistible 15g [38 metres] balls. It’s classed as a DK weight chenille yarn and is 100% Polyester. It’s lovely and soft and available in a splendid selection of both bright and subdued shades – so although I’ve made a festive bow you could make yours in any colour with a few simple yarn swaps.
And because it’s made using DK weight yarn, this hair bow works up beautifully fast – you can create one (or a whole festive collection!) in next to no time. It’s the ideal quick make for busy days, last-minute gifts, or party prep.
The only other things you need to complete your bow are;
Beginners will find the pattern easy to follow and confidence-boosting, while more experienced crocheters can enjoy a relaxed, no-fuss project that’s perfect for mindless stitching and instant festive satisfaction. 🎀
Scroll down for the free version of my Mrs Claus Hair Bow pattern the ad-free PDF Pattern is available from my pattern platforms below.
The pattern below is written just in US terms but you can view a handy conversion chart here on the blog.
Skill Level: Beginner / Easy
Size: 15 cm [5.9″] wide x 12 cm [4.7″] high
Gauge: 5 sc = 2.5 cm [1″]
STITCH GUIDANCE: US Terminology
Stitches (st): Stitch abbreviations st or sts stand for “stitch” or “stitches”
Slip Stitch (sl st): Insert hook in st indicated, yarn over and draw through all loops.
Chain (ch): Bring yarn over the hook from back to front and draw it through the slip knot (or previous chain) to form a new loop on the hook.
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.
Magic ring: is also known as a Drawstring Ring or Magic Loop and is often used as a start for working amigurumi. If you are not familiar with this technique you could substitute with a ch2 and then work in the second ch from the hook.
Working in the round: Some sections of this pattern are worked in the amigurumi style without joining in continuous rounds. Place the stitch marker in the top of the first st to mark the start of each round.
PATTERN NOTES:
Gauge: 5dc = 2.5cm [1″]. Obtaining the correct gauge is not critical for this project.
The ch1 at the start of a row does not count as a st throughout the pattern.
[ … ] Repeat section in square brackets until specified
PATTERN
Main Bow:
Row 1: With A,ch15, 1 sc in 2nd ch from hook, 1 sc in each st across, turn. (14 sts)
Rows 2 – 54: Ch 1, sc in each st across, turn. After completing Row 54, fasten off, leaving a long yarn tail. Use the yarn tail to sew Row 1 to Row 54, forming the main bow shape.
Bow Knot:
Row 1: With A, ch7, 1 sc in 2nd ch from hook, 1 sc in each st across, turn. (6 sts)
Rows 2 – 14: Ch 1, sc in each st across, turn. After completing Row 14, fasten off, leaving a long yarn tail. Use the yarn tail to wrap and sew around Rows 1–14 at the centre of the main bow, creating the “knot” and gathering the bow together.
Ribbon Bottoms (make 2):
Rnd 1: With A make a magic ring, work 8 sc in to the ring, (8 sts)
Rnd 2: [1 sc in 3 sts, 2 sc in the next st] twice, (10 sts)
Rnd 3: [1 sc in 4 sts, 2 sc in the next st] twice, (12 sts)
Rnd 4: [1 sc in 5 sts, 2 sc in the next st] twice, (14 sts)
Rnds 5 – 9: Sc in each st around
Rnd 10: [1 sc in 6 sts, 2 sc in the next st] twice, (16 sts)
Rnd 11: Sc in each st around. Fasten off A, attach B to the top of the last st worked.
Rnd 12: [1 sc in 7 sts, 2 sc in the next st] twice, (18 sts)
Rnd 13: Sc in each st around.
Rnd 14: [1 sc in 8 sts, 2 sc in the next st] twice, (20 sts)
Rnd 15: Sc in each st around.
To finish the ribbon bottoms, hold the ribbon flat, aligning both sides evenly. Working through both layers of Rnd 15, work across 10 sts to close the end securely. Fasten off and weave in ends.
Finishing
Once your bow is complete, position the ribbon tails neatly on the back of the main bow and secure them firmly in place using a needle and yarn or strong craft glue. Make sure they are centred and well attached for a polished finish.
Next, attach a DIY hair bow barrette clip to the back of the bow. This can be sewn on for extra durability or glued securely, depending on your preference. Allow any glue to fully dry before wearing – your bow is now ready to show off!
And that’s it!
Perfect for last-minute makes or joyful handmade details, the Mrs Claus Hair Bow is a small project that delivers big festive cheer. 🎄🎀
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 at no extra cost to you. This helps to cover the running cost of the website – thank you for your support.
December is moving far too fast for my liking and I just haven’t had a chance to tell you about the new crochet kits I have in my Etsy shop! If you loved our previous seasonal ornament crochet kits (like the robin, Christmas pudding, reindeer, Christmas tree and gingerbread man ), this year I’m so excited to introduce you to three brand-new kits that will spread a little handmade magic wherever they hang. Two of them are brand new, fresh off the hook and never seen before, and one is a long-time show and pop-up shop favourite that’s finally landing in the online store.
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🐻 Teddy Stocking – A Mini Surprise Inside
Meet the cutest stocking on the shelf: a soft, crocheted mini stocking complete with a removable teddy – perfect if you want to decorate the tree and maybe let someone adopt the teddy for their shelf or desk!
What makes this kit extra special:
A fully crochetable mini stocking, sized to hang neatly on your tree or fireplace.
A tiny, removable teddy that sits snugly inside – stitched separately so you can take it out and carry it around or gift it alone.
A mini present charm included in the kit, so you can attach a little “gift” into the stocking for a sparkle of holiday fun.
Whether you hang the stocking in December and then pass the teddy on as a sweet handmade gift, or keep both on display, this kit offers twice the charm for one joyful project 🎁
👼 Glitter-Halo Angel
Next up: a delicately crocheted angel, radiant with holiday cheer and ready to bring some festive sparkle to your tree (or home décor).
What’s in the kit:
Yarn for the angel’s body and gown in classic soft tones — plus special yarn with a subtle metallic/glittery thread for her halo.
A mini bell charm — so the angel can hold her little bell in her hands.
This angel adds an ethereal, twinkly touch to any holiday setup – especially lovely if you’re going for that cosy, handmade Christmas aesthetic.
🎅 Jolly St. Nick
Last but certainly not least: the kit you might recognise from fairs and shows, now finally online; our heritage-looking Santa – with a little extra charm!
With this kit you get:
A traditional, slightly vintage looking Father Christmas with carefully stitched facial details for a warm, nostalgic vibe.
A cute holly charm to attach to his hat – the finishing festive touch that brings him to life.
If you love heritage Christmas décor, this Santa will make a handsome addition, whether hung on a door, tree, or used as part of a larger handmade display.
All the kits come with the yarn and materials needed including the twine for hanging – no need to hunt for anything. The kits also come packaged in a reusable clear bauble, ideal for gifting now, and once your crochet is proudly hanging on the tree, you can refill the bauble with chocolates, sweets, or a mini surprise to enjoy year after year.
Last domestic posting date for any of my crochet kits is this Friday 12 December for USA and Wednesday 17 December for the UK. Please shop early to avoid disappointment! I tend to send out orders as they arrive in as soon as possible, but I cannot guarantee how the post office delivery side will be at this time of year!
If you make up any of the crochet kits I hope you’ll share your WIP and finished project 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 sign 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
The twinkle lights are coming on, the tree is whispering its silent invitation to be put up, and somehow December has slipped up on us again. If you’re anything like me, you might find yourself glancing at the calendar, heart pounding, and thinking: “How is Christmas so close already – and I haven’t even started the handmade gifts!”
That’s exactly why I’m thrilled to welcome you to this year’s Holiday Magic Gifts Hop, curated by Green Fox Farm Designs, with your rescue plan for last-minute gifts!
🎄 What’s the Holiday Magic Gifts Hop?
The Holiday Magic Gifts Hop is a curated collection of quick, easy to make crochet patterns – all selected to help you whip up thoughtful gifts in a flash. Each day between 6 – 21 December 2025, a new pattern will be revealed from a different designer. Even better: each featured pattern will be available for just £1.50 / $2 for 24 hours.
These are not your “takes-weeks-of-dedication” crochet patterns. They’re the kind of projects you can finish in under two hours, perfect for squeezing in between holiday prep, work, and festive madness.
How the event works:
Each morning during the Hop a new pattern is added to the main Hop post.
Click through to the featured designer’s page and download the PDF for just £1.50 / $2 (available for 24 hours only).
Gather your yarn and hooks, choose your colours, and create away – usually in under 2 hours.
Designers participate in blog hops to share their patterns with a wider audience, support fellow creators, and introduce new crocheters to their work. It’s a fun, collaborative way to build community, boost visibility, and offer makers exciting new projects to enjoy together.
Please make sure to share your appreciation with all the designers taking part by giving them and me a ‘heart’ on Ravelry and / or if you like their stuff, a follow on socials – every little interaction really helps us as designers to keep on designing.
So forget ‘last-minute panic’, go grab a hook, dust off your yarn, and let’s make this Christmas a little more cosy, a little more creative and a whole lot more handcrafted. 🧡
Until next time folks! Happy hooking, keep calm and crochet on my friends xx
P.S. Make sure you’re subscribed to the blog (below) and/or my mailing list to stay updated on new blog posts, pattern releases, and exclusive discounts!
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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.
The days are getting shorter, the evenings cooler, and I’m absolutely ready to pull up a favourite chair, wrap myself in yarny goodness and indulge in that cosy, content-feeling known as hygge. If you know me, you know I believe in the power of hooking to help make the world slow down for a short time.
That’s why I’m so excited to join this year’s Hygge blog-hop, curated by Green Fox Farm Designs, to celebrate all things handcrafted comfort. The hop is here to emphasise the warmth, the calm, the slower rhythms of life, and of course the loveliest crochet patterns to match.
Why Hygge + Crochet = Perfect Match
The word hygge (Scandinavian in origin) evokes that feeling of cosiness, comfort and contentment, and what better way to honour it than with a crochet hook in hand, yarn under your fingers, and the world outside slipping away in mindful quiet as you stitch. It’s perfect for this season when blankets, cushions, cowls and warm wraps become our friends.
For three weeks we will be hopping between different crochet blogs and different designers to gather up a whole lot of satisfying makes and (for a limited time only) free crochet patterns.
Starting 3rd November, we’ll spend three cosy weeks with one shared hygge crochet pattern each day from a different designer. Patterns will range from the soft, soothing, and useful. Think squishy blankets, textured scarves, warm beanies, amigurumi, mug rugs, and other little comforts that help you slow down and breathe during the holiday rush. Every day, the crochet hygge pattern will be available as a free PDF download for 24 hours only.
How the event works:
Starting on 3rd November 2025 go to the main roundup post and scroll to today’s date.
Follow the instructions to get today’s blog post link and / or coupon code. The most current featured design will be added to the bottom every morning. This way it stays in chronological order and it’s easy to find the current pattern feature.
Go to the relevant blog and scroll down the designer’s post until you see the download button.
And of course there is a special Hygge Bundle where you can get all 24 patterns for only £9.20 / $12!! That’s 90% off and less than 40p / $0.50 cents per pattern! The collection is only available until 26 November 2025, so don’t wait. CLICK BELOW to purchase the event bundle that you can download to your favourite device. You’ll then be able to print out individual patterns as your convenience.
Please make sure to share your appreciation with all the amazing designers by giving them a ‘heart’ on Ravelry and / or if you like their stuff, a follow on socials – every little interaction really helps us as designers.
Whether you’re diving into your holiday makes or simply craving a snug new project for those frosty evenings by the fire, the Cosy Crochet Hygge Blog Hop has something special for you! Check in each day to catch every limited-time pattern and deal before it’s gone.
Until next time folks! Happy hooking, keep calm and crochet on my friends xx
P.S. Make sure you’re subscribed to the blog (below) and/or my mailing list to stay updated on new blog posts, pattern releases, and exclusive discounts!
Subscribe to the blog:
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.
It’s November already! The days are growing shorter, the air has that crisp festive sparkle, and I can already feel the magic of Christmas creeping in. It’s the perfect time to curl up with a favourite skein of yarn, sip something warm and spiced, and start creating handmade keepsakes to treasure for years to come.
That’s why I’m so excited to join this year’s Christmas Ornament Keepsake Blog Hop, hosted by Stardust Gold Crochet, celebrating all things festive, fun, and full of crochet cheer! This special event is a joyful showcase of 24 beautiful crochet ornaments and keepsake patterns – each one designed to bring a touch of handmade magic to your holiday season.
Handmade ChristmasKeepsakes
There’s something truly special about adorning your tree, mantel, or home with ornaments made by hand. I absolutely love adding to my own Christmas décor. each year and can’t wait to share the brand new ornament I’ve designed for this event. Whether you love the charm of traditional baubles, tiny amigurumi, or sparkling snowflakes, this hop is full of inspiration for every festive mood.
For the next few weeks, the hop will be visiting a host of talented designers where you can collect gorgeous crochet ornament patterns – and best of all, you can download them for free (for a limited time)!
Starting 1st November there’ll be 24 days where you can grab a lovely free ornament crochet pattern from a different designer. Patterns range from vintage baubles and whimsical amigurumi to sparkling snowflakes and tiny keepsake treasures. Every day, the crochet ornament pattern will be available as a free PDF download for 24 hours only.
How the event works:
Starting on 1st November 2025 go to the main roundup post and scroll to today’s date.
Follow the instructions to get today’s blog post link and / or coupon code. The most current featured design will be added to the bottom every morning. This way it stays in chronological order and it’s easy to find the current pattern feature.
Go to the relevant blog and scroll down the designer’s post until you see the download button.
Please make sure to share your appreciation with all the amazing designers by giving them a ‘heart’ on Ravelry and / or if you like their stuff, a follow on socials – every little interaction really helps us as designers.
Whether you’re making ornaments for your own tree, gifts for friends and family, or special keepsakes to mark the year, the Christmas Ornament Keepsake Blog Hop has something for everyone.
So grab your hook, cue up your favourite festive playlist, and let’s make this holiday season extra special! Until next time folks! Happy hooking, keep calm and crochet on my friends xx
P.S. Make sure you’re subscribed to the blog (below) and/or my mailing list to stay updated on new blog posts, pattern releases, and exclusive discounts!
Subscribe to the blog:
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.
I’m so excited to share my latest free pattern, created in collaboration with Utopia Crafts – a wonderful yarn company based in Exeter, Devon.
Established in 2019, Utopia Crafts have developed a wide range of yarns in diverse colours and weights, all thoughtfully created to meet the needs of their customers.
For this project, I fell head over heels with their Country Wool Aran – a 80% Acrylic, 20% Wool yarn spun in a classic Aran (worsted) weight. It’s beautifully soft yet structured, and I knew straight away it would be perfect for a neutral pumpkin idea I had.
I used a single ball of the Country Wool Aran with a 5mm (US size H/8) hook and it makes quite a large sized pumpkin. The finished size of mine was 57 cm [22.4″] diameter x 11.5 cm [4.5″] high.
While bright orange will always have a special place in autumn décor, neutral tones, think soft creams, oatmeals, greys, and taupes to bring a timeless, rustic elegance to your home. The great thing is that those colours will work beautifully with most interior style, and they’re subtle enough to keep on display well beyond October.
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And because it’s an Aran weight yarn, this pattern works up super quickly, you can make a pumpkin (or a whole patch of them!) in no time at all. It’s the ideal project for a cosy autumn evening. Beginners will hopefully find this pattern approachable, while more seasoned crocheters can appreciate the opportunity to relax with a project that doesn’t require intense concentration.
That said there are loads of beautiful shades of Country Wool Aran so you could make pumpkins any colours you would like – I can’t wait to see what you come up with.
🧶 The free pattern is available now from the Utopia Crafts website.
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 at no extra cost to you. This helps to cover the running cost of the website – thank you for your support.
The cosy season is here, and it’s the perfect time to snuggle up with the Fireside Blog Hop, hosted by the wonderful Ambassador Crochet! All through October, you can explore a treasure trove of crochet patterns from amazing designers – and yep, I’m offering a pattern too!
If you’ve never joined a crochet blog hop before, think of it as a fun, online event created by the crochet blogging community. It’s kind of like a virtual scavenger hunt – along the way, you’ll discover amazing new designers to follow and grab some free patterns! You’ll ‘hop’ from one designer’s blog to the next to get the pattern details. This not only helps us designers grow our businesses (thank you so much!) but also lets you score free or discounted crochet patterns for yourself – win-win!
Each day, a new pattern will be featured, by Ambassador Crochet, either a free PDF download (available for 24 hours only) or at at least 50% offsale, giving you a fantastic opportunity to stock up on some fabulous crochet designs.
Each day of October, beginning Tuesday 1 October, at roughly 1pm UK time (8am EST), a brand new pattern will be shared AND you lovely crocheters will be able to get each pattern with either the link and / or the coupon code that will be provided!
This time, I’m extra excited because I have not one, but TWO brand-new patterns to share with you – each featured on a different day! I’m keeping the dates a surprise for now, so be sure to check back here and follow along on social media for the links and coupon codes when my patterns go live. There’s so much to look forward to – blankets, cowls, scarves, cushions, and more…
How the event works:
Go to the main roundup post and scroll to today’s date.
Scroll down the designer’s post until you see the download button. The most current featured design will be added to the bottom every morning. This way it stays in chronological order and it’s easy to find the current pattern feature.
Follow the instructions to get today’s blog post link and / or coupon code.
Download the pattern to your device or library!
Patterns will only be available for 24 hours from 1pm to 1pm GMT (8am to 8am EST) the next day.
Pattern Bundle Special Offer:
If you can’t wait for everyday in October , because you want all the things now, then there is also an option to purchase the exclusive pattern bundle at a saving of If you don’t want to wait for each day, you have the option to purchase the bundle of patterns were you’ll get all 31 patterns for only £9.78 / $12.99. ! This pattern bundle won’t last for long it’s only until the end of October 2024.
The bundle includes all 31 designs featured in the event bundle that you can download to your favourite device. You’ll then be able to print out individual patterns as your convenience.
Whether you’re ready to kick off your holiday crafting or just want a cozy new project for those chilly nights by the fire, the Fireside Blog Hop has you covered! Follow along each day so you don’t miss a single limited-time deal. Let’s make this October our cosiest, most creative one yet
Until next time folks! Happy hooking, keep calm and crochet on my friends xx
P.S. Make sure you’re subscribed to the blog (below) and/or my mailing list to stay updated on new blog posts, pattern releases, and exclusive discounts!
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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.
I’m so excited to be bringing another Fibre Friend Chat to the KCACOUK blog — and this one is extra special! Please give a warm welcome to the wonderfully creative and kind-hearted Olivia Dieterich, creative force behind @CrochYaY.
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If you’ve followed Olivia’s work online, you’ll know she is the inspiring mind behind Random Acts of Crochet Kindness, a movement that’s bringing comfort, colour, and connection to strangers around the world through yarn. Her UK-based Facebook group now has over 350,000 members, and affiliated groups have since been created all over the world. She’s just released a beautiful new book too, and I couldn’t wait to find out more.
Here’s what we chatted about…
Can you start by telling us a little bit about yourself and how @CrochyaYcame to be?
I’ve always loved crafts, I spent a lot of time with my nan growing up and she taught me every craft under the sun – apart from crocheting! This ended up being the craft that I fell in love with and it made her so proud as it was the one thing she could never figure out how to do. Crocheting has always brought me so much joy, it’s kept me safe during moments where I’ve struggled with my mental health, and it’s given me such a sense of achievement with the things I’ve made. I wanted to start posting these things online, and that’s where Crochyay was born!
Has fibre art always been a creative outlet for you — or did it become more meaningful during a particular season of life?
Fibre art has always been a creative outlet for me, and I’ve done all different kinds since I was about 8 years old, but it was when I was 17-20 years old that it really became a huge coping strategy for me. I had a mental health crisis and was struggling with every day life. During this time crocheting was a thing that helped me survive my darkest moments, the colours, textures, patterns, counting helped me stay grounded in the present moment and distracted from everything else going on in my head. Sitting down to crochet felt like a big comfort during that time.
You’re the founder of Random Crochet Acts of Kindness — for those who might not have heard of it, can you tell us what it is and how it all started?
Random Acts of Crochet Kindness (RAOCK) began after I completed a personal challenge of crocheting one flower a day for 100 days, and leaving it out for a stranger to find. I called this challenge Random Acts of Crochet Kindness. When I was about half way through, my challenge got picked up by the BBC and they made a video about what I was doing. I was flooded with requests from people saying they wanted to do the same thing, and asking how they could get involved. I started the group Random Acts of Crochet Kindness so there was a space for people to share their makes, and their finds. I have been overwhelmed by how this group has grown, and it is now an incredible community of love and kindness through crocheting, all over the world.
Do you remember a project that felt like a real turning point — where you truly felt you were translating emotion into yarn?
I lost a close friend to suicide in 2018, and the grief I felt was unbearable. I wanted to do something for her funeral, so I decided to crochet her a flower bouquet. I thought of her through every stitch, I poured love into every flower that I made, and whilst making it I felt like I had time just to honour her memory, and to let myself feel however I needed to feel. There were definitely lots of tears shed whilst making it, but it helped me so much.
How has the RAOCK project grown or evolved since it began? What kind of responses have you received from people who’ve found or taken part in it?
When it began, it was just something to help me through a difficult time, and maybe bring a smile to peoples faces. I never could have anticipated the responses that I received, and how many other people would want to get involved. The RAOCK project has now evolved into a worldwide kindness movement. What I see time and time again is that people find a RAOCK, they love it so much, and they say ‘now I want to get involved.’ Kindness is contagious, and people are realising the power they have to make the world a better place through such a small gesture. I’ve received responses from people who have said things like ‘I was really struggling with my mental health, but I found this RAOCK and it’s given me hope, because it made me feel joy again,’ and ‘my child was really upset today, and I was struggling with parenting, but we found this RAOCK and it cheered them up, and helped me get through the day.’ People who leave RAOCK’s have said that it gives them a sense of purpose, it helps with their mental health, it makes them feel that they have the power to have a positive impact on the world.
Is there a piece you’ve created that you feel especially emotionally connected to? Can you tell us the story behind it?
I crocheted a blue butterfly and left it at an airport on my way back from holiday. I received a message from a lady who said she’d found the butterfly, and wanted to explain how much it meant to her. Her son had recently passed away, and she said that blue was her sons favourite colour. She felt that finding this RAOCK was a message from him, and gave her hope and strength to keep going. This message showed me just how much of an impact you can have with a small act of kindness. You never know what someone is going through, but by taking 15 minutes to make a RAOCK, you might be the reason a person feels able to keep going, or the reason a person smiles, and I think that’s incredible.
What advice would you give to someone who’s going through a hard time and wants to turn to crochet (or any fibre art) as an emotional outlet? I would say try not to put too much pressure on yourself. Make the things that bring you joy, and let yourself make mistakes or change your mind with what you’re making. When I feel tense or anxious, I feel that in my crocheting. Tune in to how you’re feeling, try to relax, slow down your breathing, and get lost in the stitches. If you focus on the colours, the pattern, one stitch at a time, it can be really grounding, and for a short while your mind can take a break from what is going on in your life. When I was at my lowest point, crocheting was the thing that kept me safe, because I kept saying to myself ‘just do one more stitch, one more stitch,’ and eventually my difficult moment had passed. Don’t underestimate the power of fibre art for your mental wellbeing.
What can we look forward to from @CrocheYaYin the near future? Any themes or projects you’re excited to explore?
I’d love to continue exploring the benefit of putting kindness into the world on a person’s mental health, both for adults and children. I hope I can do this by writing more books, doing crochet workshops, and partnering with mental health charities. I’ve also noticed how much children love getting involved with RAOCK, so I’d love to make it more accessible to them, I’ve started writing a children’s book about kindness through crafts, and would love to have this published one day.
And just for fun – if your yarn had magical powers, what emotion would you most want it to help people with?
This was such a difficult decision, but I think I would choose anxiety. I struggle to sit with this emotion, the shaky hands, the heart palpitations, the feeling of panic, I’d love to be able to let that emotion melt away with the yarn, leaving a sense of peace.
A huge thank you to Olivia for sharing her heart, her story, and her stitches. I’ve struggled with my own mental health at times and crochet was definitely (and continues to be) a massive help, so many of her comments really hit home for me. If you’d like to join the RAOCK movement, check out her Instagram @CrochYaY and grab a copy of her brand-new book — it’s a gentle invitation to spread kindness, one stitch at a time.
And stay tuned — I’ll be sharing my full review of Olivia’s Random Acts of Crochet Kindness book tomorrow here on the blog! You won’t want to miss it. 💛
If you enjoyed this interview you can catch up on all the other designer chats and discussions with other people in the fibre industry in my Fibre Friends series. And if there’s any other people you’d like to maybe see featured here on the blog, let me know in the comments and I’ll see what I can do.
Make sure you are signed up to blog (below) and / or my mailing list to get a reminder when new blog posts like this one, 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. You can read more about my affiliate links here.
