My Weekend at Carry On Crafting 2025

Posted in Blogging, Crochet, Days Out by Keep Calm and Crochet On UK

What an absolute joy the long weekend at Carry on Crafting (CoC) was! The weather was nothing short of scorchio – hot, sunny and glorious – the kind that makes you forget what day it is and just melts you into pure holiday mode.

Promotional poster for the Carry on Crafting Festival 2025, featuring event details, date, activities, and illustrations related to crafting.

If you’ve not heard of Carry on Crafting before it’s a crafting festival that is held usually in July in the South of England Showground in Ardingly, West Sussex. I have been before (you can read about a previous visit here) and it’s a crafting event that I look forward to on my calendar.

This year was my first time glamping and I have to say, the bell tents were brilliant! Spacious, beautifully pitched with sparkly lights on that came on at night, and the beds were surprisingly comfy. With the sun blazing down, they did turn a bit hot during the day (but that’s the same with any tent), but that just meant more incentive to stay out enjoying the crafty fun!

A bell tent decorated with colourful flags at the Carry on Crafting Festival, showcasing the glamping setup in a sunny outdoor environment.

I went as part of a group of about 27 “hookers” – most of us having met through attending The Crochet Sanctuary at different times, and it’s amazing how those weekends have turned into long-lasting friendships. CoC has become a perfect annual get-together where we crochet, craft, laugh, and soak up the atmosphere.

Crafting Highlights

I signed up for the bird bath mosaic workshop, which ran over two evenings – and I loved every minute of it. It was calming, creative, and so satisfying watching my little garden masterpiece come together piece by piece. It’s definitely something I’d like to do again!

Me holding a finished mosaic bird bath with a blue and green circular design, featuring a white bird in the centre.

I also popped into a drop-in macramé session and ended up totally hooked. There’s something so soothing about working with knots and cords, the teacher was really helpful and the atmosphere around the craft tents was so welcoming and relaxed, it was fun to chat to other session participants too.

Me wearing a wide-brimmed straw hat with colourful pom-poms, showcasing my light blue macramé necklace.

Festival, Food & Fibre

The food from the vendors was top notch – everything I tried was delicious and perfect fuel for a busy crafting weekend. Whether it was a cheeky sweet treat from the crepe van or something savoury, like my burger spud, to keep us going, they had us sorted. There was also live music and sheep to see, an ariel display, movie night, bingo and just so much to see and do…

Two sheep in a pen filled with straw, with a food stall in the background selling crepes.

One of the best parts of CoC is always catching up with my fibre friends. It was great to see:

the lovely Eleonora from Coastal Crochet, whose work always inspires.
Kitey aka The Yarn Whisperer, always a delight to chat with of course,
Bex from The Pigeons Nest, who was sharing a stand with Kitey (though didn’t get a photo – must do that next time),
Justine from Little Box of Crochet, who also happens to be the mastermind organiser of CoC,
Alice from The Burrow who definitely had one of the best show set ups for her stand.

Group photo of attendees at Carry on Crafting festival, featuring friends smiling together in colourful hats and casual attire, surrounded by craft displays and a vibrant atmosphere.

The Annual CoC Project

For the past three years, myself, Amanda from Mrs G Makes, and Jess from Hook & Cwtch have created a special CoC project for our group to enjoy. You might remember:

Festival Fade – the asymmetric shawl I designed for our first year,
Festival Fusion Cowl – last year’s vibrant and textured make, and now…
The Yarnival Bag – this year’s group project, which I’m excited to say will be released later this month! It’s full of colour, fun stitches and festival flair – can’t wait to share it with you all!

A colourful crafting bag filled with various yarn skeins in pastel shades and a wooden button labelled 'Carry on Crafting 2025'.

What I Bought…

There were over 100 vendors at CoC sharing their wares as well as many specialist artisans running crafty workshops. The majority of vendors took card or cash payments making it very easy for me to spend on some fabulous things! Here’s what I bought;

The brand new Crochet Socks that Rock Book by the lovely Anna Nikipirowicz from publishers David & Charles. I was extremely excited about this book for two reasons, firstly as it’s a pre-release copy (it’s not officially available until September), and secondly because it has been on my crochet bucket list for ages to make some crochet socks this will be the impetus I need to get that ticked off.
Then I bought some yarn from a stall, that I unfortunately didn’t keep the name of, I bought a Schoppel Zauberball a yarn which has been on my list to try for ages, and then some pink 100% Natural Dye Studio Dazzle Sock British Blue Faced Leicester yarn – both of which I’m planning to hopefully use on some socks from the Crochet Socks that Rock Book.
Then anyone that knows me knows I love any kind of stationery so I couldn’t resist the cork notebook from Alice (aka The Burrow) it has a faux tarot card featuring ‘The Crocheter’ which I had to have!
Then I bought a gorgeous handmade project basket bag from The Embroidered Fox which I love, love love!

A flat lay image featuring a crochet book titled 'Crochet Socks That Rock', a floral-patterned project bag, a notebook with a cork cover, a pink skein of yarn, and a dark colorful skein of yarn on a light wooden background.

Then I bought a beautiful little handmade ceramic toadstool (whose stall I also unfortunately didn’t make a note of) but I love toadstools so I couldn’t resist it.
Then I popped by to see Bex (aka The Pigeons Nest), I love her stickers and knew she’d got some new designs so wanted to get some of those, and I picked up some of her fun slogan pencils too, and I couldn’t resist her ‘Emotional Support Project’ pouch in black and neon orange, it had to come home with me!
Then from Kitey (aka The Yarn Whisperer) I bought some bright neon yarn and some dark blue yarn, both DK, with the mind to re-imagine our latest collab, Sassy Sardines, in a different colourway and in a slightly different size – a project that I’m excited to get stuck into.

A flat lay image featuring a black pouch with the text 'Emotional Support Project' in orange, surrounded by two skeins of yarn in orange and blue, colourful stickers, and two coloured pencils.

All in all, CoC was the perfect mix of creativity, community, and sunshine. I came back with a full heart and a camera roll of happy memories. If you’re a maker, a crafter, or just someone who loves to be surrounded by inspiration you need to add Carry On Crafting to your calendar.

Although I’m sadly not going to be able to make it next year, due to already having plans on that date, I’m already looking forward to 2027. If you’ve now read this post and it sounds like something you need to get in on there’s still some availability for 2026 show (11 – 12 July 2025) – find all the details on the Carry on Crafting website. 💛✨🧶

A glamping bell tent illuminated at night, featuring decorative lights and bunting, with a cozy atmosphere and a night sky in the background.

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

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10Jul2025

Free Crochet Pattern | The Forester Shawl

Posted in Crochet, Free Patterns by Keep Calm and Crochet On UK

Today I’m delighted to be joining in the Furls Designer Blog Hop 2025! I’ve teamed up with Furls and some incredibly talented designers as they bring you a whole year of beautiful free crochet patterns – one new pattern every two weeks, all made with Furls Yarn.

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An advertisement for 'The Furls Forester Shawl' PDF crochet pattern, featuring an image of a triangular crochet shawl in green shades. The shawl is being worn by a person in a park-like setting, showcasing its design and dimensions.

What is the Furls Designer Blog Hop?

If you’re not familiar with the Furls Blog Hop, it’s a year-long celebration of crochet and creativity. Every two weeks, a different designer releases a brand-new free crochet pattern using Furls Fiberart Wander yarn. You may remember last year I participated with the Foundry Fusion Shawl, and this year I’m back sharing a new free design.

You can find lots of free patterns (and grab any you’ve missed!), plus access other great crochet related articles, right here on the Furls Blog landing page. Whether you’re here for wearables, accessories, or home décor, the hop is a wonderful way to discover new styles and designers – and get inspired all year long.

My Design: The Forester Shawl

I’m so pleased to introduce you to my contribution to this year’s hop: The Forester Shawl. My design is nod to lush greenery of the forests where I love to go for a walk.

The Forester Shawl is big, bold, and incredibly cosy – perfect for transitional seasons or even cooler summer evenings when you want something comforting but breathable.

A woman stands in a green field wearing a cozy, colorful crochet shawl with a tassel. She has short, light-colored hair and looks upward with a smile.

I used Furls Fiberart Wander yarn for my shawl which is a 100% acrylic, worsted weight (Aran) yarn that comes in 100g balls. Each ball has approximately 120 yards/ 109m and has a lovely lustre about it and it’s also super soft to crochet with.

I was very lucky as the lovely folks at Furls also sent me the most gorgeous limited edition Streamline Bronze 7 (4.5mm) crochet hook ( I loooove the colour) to use on the project. I’ve got a few Furls hooks (wooden, metal and resin) which I enjoy using when working with thicker yarn weights.

A collection of Furls Fiberart Wander acrylic yarn in various shades of green and mint, arranged on a white surface. Also included are a pair of scissors, a black pen, and a bronze crochet hook labeled 'Furls'. A small potted plant is in the background.

I used five different colours of Furls Fiberart Wander yarn in my shawl. You could of course use less colours, but when selecting your colours, consider shades that complement each other to create a pleasing gradient or contrast.

One of the best features of the The Forester Shawl is its speed to work up. Thanks to the worsted (aran) weight yarn and straightforward pattern, you can whip up a lovely big shawl in no time. It’s also a perfect mindful project, with easy pattern repeats, for those moments when you want to indulge in a satisfying and easy crochet session.

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.

A person wearing the Forester Shawl, a triangular crochet shawl with varying green shades, standing in a grassy field surrounded by trees.

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.

The Forester Shawl

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

Yarn: Furls Fiberarts Wander Acrylic Yarn used in photos: 100% Premium Acrylic Yarn; Worsted Weight (Aran) #4, 100g (120yds / 109m). Suggested colors below however any colors can work for this pattern;

1 ball Cottage (Dark Green) – A
2 ball Arbor (Forest Green) – B
2 balls Patina (Sage Green) – C
2 balls Wintermint (Light Mint) – D

Pattern will work in other hooks and yarns though finished size will be different.

Hook: US size 7 (4.5mm).

You will also need

Gauge: 4 dc / 4 rows = 2.5 cm [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: 175 cm [69”] x 68.5 cm [27”] at widest point.

STITCH GUIDANCE: UK Terminology

Slip Stitch (sl st): Insert hook in st indicated, yarn over and draw through all loops.
Space (sp): The gap between stitches or chains.
Chain (ch): Bring yarn over hook from back to front and grab it with hook. Draw hooked yarn through slip knot and onto hook.
Double Crochet (dc): 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

PATTERN NOTES:

Where a row starts with a ch3; the ch3 will count as the first dc stitch.
[ … ] Repeat section in square brackets until specified
Turning chains: If you find working with a ch3 (when it counts as a st) is creating a stitch that is too tall (and so creates a noticeable gap in your work replace it with a ch2.
Using stitch markers: Add a stitch marker at the beginning and the end of each row to help keep track of the start and finish off that row.
Shaping: The main body of the triangular shawl is worked from side to side, increasing on the beginning and the end of each row.

PATTERN:

PATTERN

Row 1: With A; ch 3, sl st to form a ring, then working into the ring, ch 3, 3 dc into the ring, ch 3, 4 dc into the ring, turn. (8 sts, 1 x ch3-sp)

Row 2: Ch 3, 2 dc in the same st, 1 dc in the next 3 sts, (1 dc, ch 3, 1 dc) in the ch3-sp of the previous row, 1 dc in the next 3 sts, 3 dc in the last st, turn. (14 sts, 1 x ch3-sp)

Row 3: Ch 3, 2 dc in the same st, 1 dc in the next 6 sts, (1 dc, ch 3, 1 dc) in the ch3-sp of the previous row, 1 dc in the next 6 sts, 3 dc in the last st, turn. (20 sts, 1 x ch3-sp)

Row 4: Ch 3, 2 dc in the same st, 1 dc in the next st, [ch1, miss st, 1 dc in the next 2 sts] repeat until the st before the ch3-sp, 1 dc in the next st, (1 dc, ch 3, 1 dc) in the ch3-sp of the previous row, 1 dc in the next st, [ch1, miss st, 1 dc in the next 2 sts ] repeat until the last 2 sts, 1 dc in the next st, 3 dc in the last st, turn. (20 sts, 6 x ch1-sps, 1 x ch3-sp). Fasten off A and weave in ends.

Row 5: Attach D to the top of the last st worked; ch 3, 2 dc in the same st, [ch1, miss st, 1 dc in the next 2 sts] repeat until the ch3-sp, (1 dc, ch 3, 1dc) in the ch3-sp of the previous row, [1 dc in the next 2 sts, miss st, ch1 ] repeat until the last st, 3 dc in the last st, turn. (24 sts, 8 x ch1-sps, 1 x ch3-sp). Fasten off D and weave in ends.

Row 6: Attach B to the top of the last st worked; ch 3,1 dc in the same st, ch 1, [1 dc in the next 2 sts, ch1, miss st, ] repeat until the last 3 sts before the ch3-sp, 1 dc in the last 3 sts, (1 dc, ch 3, 1 dc) in the ch3-sp of the previous row, 1 dc in the next 3 sts, [miss st, ch 1, 1 dc in the next 2 sts ] repeat until the last st, ch 1, 2 dc in the last st, turn. (28 sts, 10 x ch1-sps, 1 x ch3-sp) Fasten off B and weave in ends.

From this point onwards we start working in the pattern which is a 3 row repeat.

Row 7: Attach C to the top of the last st worked; repeat Row 4 (32 sts, 12 x ch1-sps, 1 x ch3-sp). Fasten off C and weave in ends.

Rows 8 – 15: Attach A to the top of the last st worked; repeat Rows 5, 6, 4 twice and 5, 6 once more. (64 sts, 28 x ch1-sps, 1 x ch3-sp).Fasten off A and weave in ends.

Row 16: Attach D to the top of the last st worked; repeat Row 4 (68 sts, 30 x ch1-sps, 1 x ch3-sp). Fasten off D and weave in ends.

Row 17: Attach C to the top of the last st worked; repeat Row 5 (72 sts, 32 x ch1-sps, 1 x ch3-sp). Fasten off C and weave in ends.

Rows 18 – 29: Attach C to the top of the last st worked; repeat Rows 6, 4, 5 four times. (120 sts, 56 x ch1-sps, 1 x ch3-sp).Fasten off C and weave in ends.

Row 30: Attach D to the top of the last st worked; repeat Row 6 (124 sts, 58 x ch1-sps, 1 x ch3-sp). Fasten off D and weave in ends.

Rows 31 – 42: Attach B to the top of the last st worked; repeat Rows 4, 5, 6 four times. (172 sts, 82 x ch1-sps, 1 x ch3-sp).Fasten off B and weave in ends.

Row 43: Attach A to the top of the last st worked; repeat Row 4 (176 sts, 84 x ch1-sps, 1 x ch3-sp). Fasten off A and weave in ends.

Rows 44 – 54: Attach D to the top of the last st worked; repeat Rows 5, 6, 4 four times. (220 sts, 106 x ch1-sps, 1 x ch3-sp).Fasten off D and weave in end.

BLOCKING:

Steam blocking is best for an acrylic shawl. Pin shawl in place, then gently steam without touching the fabric to set the shape safely.

FINISHING:

Using the left over colours make two chunky tassels to go on the long ends of the shawl.

And that’s it!

PARTIAL CHART

Section of chart. Please note there are more stitches and rows than shown;

A schematic diagram illustrating the stitch pattern for a crochet shawl, labeled with rows and stitch symbols.

BLOCKING

This design may benefit from being blocked, as it is an acrylic yarn steam blocking is one of the best methods you can use. Simply pin the item into shape and hover a steam iron or garment steamer over it without touching the fabric. Let the steam relax the fibres, then allow to cool/dry.

And that’s it!

A person standing in a grassy field, showcasing a large, triangular crochet shawl in shades of green and mint, with tassels on each end.

Whether you crochet one for yourself or as a thoughtful gift for a loved one, this pattern promises satisfaction and style in equal measure. If you enjoyed this pattern, you can view a list of my other free patterns here.

If you make your own Forester Shawl, I’d absolutely love to see it! You can tag me (@KCACO.UK) on instagram or use the hashtag #FurlsForesterShawl so I can admire your beautiful work. And don’t forget to tag @furlscrochet too! 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 at no extra cost to you. This helps to cover the running cost of the website – thank you for your support.

16Jun2025

Sassy Sardines Makealong starts today!

Posted in Collaboration, Crochet by Keep Calm and Crochet On UK

Promotional graphic for the Sassy Sardines crochet make-along featuring two stylized fish and event details.

Hello, my fabulous friends! 🐟✨

I’m thrilled to announce that today marks the official start of the Sassy Sardines Makealong! 🎉🐠 It’s time to grab your hooks, pick up your sassiest yarn kit, and join me in creating a charming cowl that’s sure to brighten up any day.

All the folks that ordered the exclusive Sassy Sardines MAL kits should have already received the gorgeous Yarn Whisperer yarn (plus fab extras), and the pattern has already been sent out to everyone (from Kitey – so maybe check your junk mail if the pattern doesn’t seem to have appeared).

As usual the exclusive kit colourway that Kitey has come up with for this summer is simply gorgeous, and with it being our first double knit (DK / Light Worsted) collab weight project, it’s an absolute squishy delight to work with.

An arrangement of yarn skeins in shades of grey and turquoise beside three yarn balls stacked on top of each other, with a whimsical illustration of fish at the bottom.

The kit includes a total of 250g (484m) of Superwash 100% Merino DK yarn, with all colours in tonal semi-solids. We have 1 x 115g / 230m skein of Sardine Shimmer in a subtle light grey colour, and 1 x 115g / 230m skein of Seafoam Glow which is a delicate light turquoise hue, reminiscent of serene ocean waters, then finally we have 1 x 20g / 24m skein Deep Sea Spark which is a rich teal-turquoise blend, perfect for adding a splash of ocean-inspired depth to the project.

What’s really fun is that the Seafoam Glow yarn reacts to black light because it contains fluorescent pigments that absorb the UV rays from the black light and re-emit them as visible light, creating a glowing effect. I had so much fun working with this particular palette for this crochet design. The pattern was inspired by a conversation with Kitey at Carry On Crafting last year, and it’s been a real joy to bring it to life!

And Amanda from Mrs G Makes has outdone herself once more, picking the perfect stitch markers to compliment our makealong. I know I always say this, but these truly are my new favourites – a darling little stripy enamel fish and a lovely facetted iridescent bead!

A close-up photo of stitch markers featuring a blue and white striped fish and a silver bead, resting on a sandy surface with rocks in the background. The markers are displayed on a turquoise card that says 'Mrs G Makes' and '@mrsgmakes' in white text.

For the full information about this particular make along (MAL) you can find all the details here (or via the top menu of this blog under the tab ‘CALS AND MALS’). But generally the idea is that the MAL is a relaxed event designed to be made during the winter months.

If you’ve fallen in love with how the kit looks but didn’t get a chance to sign up for the MAL you’re in luck, Kitey can do some dye to order kits. To get one, simply send him a message via The Yarn Whisperer website or a DM on Instagram. Kits are priced at £47 plus postage.

Three skeins of yarn in shades of turquoise and grey alongside smooth stones and a small green plant, arranged on a wooden surface.

As a reminder this MAL will run from today (Monday 16 June) until Sunday 27 July 2025 giving everyone plenty of time 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.

There will be support for the pattern as usual in my Facebook group; the KCACO-UK Crochet Community Group and in Kitey’s Virtual Stitch-n-B*tch zoom sessions. Kitey will also be holding a MAL start ‘hook on’ / intro session on Instagram Live at 10am-ish (GMT) today (16 June 2025).

SHARING WITH THE #SASSYSARDINES COMMUNITY

We hope you’ll share your photos with us on social media (facebook, twitter or instagram) or as a project on Ravelry – we’d love to see what you make! We will be sharing our progress with the hashtags #SassySardinesCowl #kcacouk #yarnwhisperer #mrsgmakes. If you’re blogging, feel free to leave links to your post(s) in the comments here.

You might also want to sign up for the blog (below) and/or join my mailing list to get the latest updates about our fun makealongs as they come up – our 10th collab is coming up this winter, and we’re planning something big!

Pin this project:

A selection of yarn skeins for the Sassy Sardines Summer Makealong, featuring shades of turquoise and light grey, displayed stylishly on a light surface.

We do hope that you enjoy this fun make-along; Kitey, Mrs G and I can’t wait to see your wonderful Sassy Sardine Cowls come to life – it’s sure to ‘reel’ in compliments wherever you go.

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

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1May2025

Now Available | Curtis the Cactus Pattern and Crochet Kit

Posted in Crochet, Crochet Kit, Independent Design by Keep Calm and Crochet On UK

Say hello to the suavest succulent in the bunch—Curtis the Cactus! With his dashing moustache, sun-kissed yellow sun visor, and laid-back messenger bag slung over his shoulder, Curtis is bringing serious cool-guy energy to desks, plant shelves, and window sills everywhere.

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Collage of Curtis the Cactus from the amigurumi crochet kit, showcasing him in various poses—dressed in a sun visor and bag, sitting in his terracotta pot, and surrounded by his handmade accessories, with close-ups highlighting his moustache and fuzzy chest details.

Curtis the Cactus Amigurumi

Whether he’s chilling in his terracotta plant pot (which comes with the kit!) or hanging out with his cactus and succulent pals, Curtis knows how to stand tall and look sharp. And let’s not overlook the statement he makes with that gloriously hairy chest—because Curtis is confident, carefree, and just a little bit cheeky. 🌞🌵

Designed with love and plenty of personality, Curtis is part of a super fun crochet kit that’s perfect for treating yourself or gifting to a plant lover with a sense of humour.

A cheerful crocheted cactus named Curtis, wearing a yellow sun visor and a black moustache, stands in a terracotta pot surrounded by various succulent plants.

What’s Inside the Kit?

The kit includes everything you need to bring this charismatic cactus to life—from yarn and stuffing to that iconic pot and bits for his signature accessories. In the kit you will get;

High-quality yarn
Easy-to-follow pattern
Stuffing
Black safety eyes and button for his bag
Terracotta plant pot plus gravel weights for bottom of the soil

Everything comes neatly packaged and ready for you to start your crochet adventure.

Shop Curtis Crochet Kit

A bright green amigurumi cactus with two arms sits in a small terracotta pot, surrounded by various succulent plants.

Pattern Also Available on Its Own!

But if you’re already well-stocked on supplies or just love to freestyle your makes, you’re in luck—Curtis the Cactus is also available as a standalone pattern! So whether you go full kit or digital DIY, you can still invite a little cactus charm into your home. Choose your favourite pattern platform from the links below to get hooking!

Other Crochet Kits for Sale

Curtis isn’t the only one soaking up the sunshine! Don’t forget to check out my other crochet kits available for sale—whether you’re feeling those spring-summer vibes with the Sunflower Pincushion, Bunty the Bear, or the leafy elegance of the Leafy Boughs Shawl, or fancy getting ahead on something seasonal like Mr Mushroom Man for autumn or the Reindeer, Gingerbreadman, and Robin kits for Christmas, there’s a project to suit every mood and maker.

See all the KCACOUK Crochet Kits

A collage of crochet kits showcasing various adorable creations, including a cactus with a moustache, a sunflower, a green lacy shawl, hanging hearts ornament, a bear holding some bunting, a gnome, a hero hamster, mini pumpkins, and a mushroom man.

So whether you’re looking to add a little personality to your plant gang or just fancy a fun, feel-good make, Curtis the Cactus is ready to bring the sunshine—one stitch at a time! I can’t wait to see yours!🌵

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

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27Apr2025

Baby Shower Gift Ideas Blog Hop 2025

Posted in Blogging, Crochet by Keep Calm and Crochet On UK

Welcome to the Baby Shower Blog Hop 2025 – your go-to celebration of all things cuddly, soft, and handmade for the newest little bundles of joy! Hosted by the talented Ambassador Crochet from 27th April to 24th May, you can discover an incredible selection of crochet patterns from many fabulous designers—including me!

Banner for the Baby Shower Blog Hop 2025 featuring a cute elephant on a moon and text detailing the event dates and host.

If you’re not familiar with a crochet blog hop is it’s basically an online networking event hosted by folks in the crochet blogging community. It’s a bit like a virtual scavenger hunt where you will find new designers to follow, and get free or discounted patterns while you’re at it! You’ll “hop” to each designers blog to get the pattern details; by doing this you help the us as designers grow our businesses (thank you!), all while receiving a free or discounted crochet pattern for yourself (yay!)

I’m delighted to be teaming up with a group of talented crochet designers to bring you 28 baby-themed patterns — from cosy blankets and tiny booties to adorable toys and nursery storage.

Graphic listing the participants and dates for the Baby Shower Blog Hop, featuring various crochet designers.

Each day, a new pattern will be featured, by Ambassador Crochet, either a free PDF download (available for 24 hours only) or a pattern discounted with at least 50% off the usual sale price, giving you a fantastic opportunity to stock up on some fabulous crochet designs.

Crocheting for babies is such a joyful experience — you can fill every stitch with love and snuggles. Hopefully this blog hop inspires you to create beautiful keepsakes and practical gifts that will be treasured for years to come.

A collage showcasing various crochet baby items including blankets, toys, and a baby shower event advertisement.

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:

Can’t wait a whole month or worried you’ll miss a day? You’re in luck! You can get instant access to all 30+ premium baby shower patterns with the Baby Shower Bundle. This bundle is packed with sweet, thoughtful designs made with love — and it’s a great way to support your favourite indie crochet designers!

The bundle includes all 28 designs featured in the event bundle that you can download to your favourite device. You’ll then be able to print out individual patterns at your own convenience.

Don’t forget — my special day is coming up soon, and I’ll be offering a sweet discount on a brand-new baby shower pattern just for the hop! Stay tuned — you won’t want to miss it! 🎁🧶💕

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.

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11Apr2025

Free Crochet Pattern | Easter Egg Belly Buddies

Posted in Crochet, Free Patterns by Keep Calm and Crochet On UK

Spring is in the air, and what better way to celebrate than with an adorable crochet project! Meet the Easter Egg Belly Buddies—a sweet chick and bunny duo with a hidden surprise. These little cuties have a hollow tummy, just the right size for tucking in a chocolate egg or a tiny treat. Perfect for Easter baskets, gifts, or as a festive table decoration, these quick and fun amigurumi will add a handmade touch to your spring celebrations.

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Pinterest Collage of the FREE crochet pattern for the decorative and practical Easter Egg Belly Buddies available from www.keepcalmandcrochetonuk.com

Easter is a time for family, fun, and of course, chocolate! I wanted to create a little project that could be both decorative and practical—something cute but with a purpose. That’s how the Belly Buddies were born! Designed as a quick and satisfying make, the pattern includes instructions for both the bunny and the chick, making them ideal for Easter gifts, springtime surprises, or party favours.

I’ve designed these little friends to work up quickly, using simple stitches and minimal sewing. They’re great for using up scraps of yarn, and you can easily customize them with different colours or embellishments.

A trio of crocheted bunny toys in soft pastel shades, sitting side by side. Each bunny has long ears, embroidered facial details, and a round belly designed to hold a small chocolate egg.

❤️ SAVE EASTER EGG BELLY BUDDIES ON RAVELRY ❤️

Scroll down for the free version of my Easter Egg Belly Buddies pattern the ad-free PDF Pattern is available from my pattern platforms below.

Easter Egg Belly Buddies

The pattern below is written just in UK terms but you can view a handy conversion chart here on the blog.

Skill Level: Easy

Yarn Required: Approx 25g / 69yds per animal

Yarn Used in photos: Scheepjes Catona, Fingering / 4 ply; 50g, 138 yds (126 m), 100 % cotton

Suggested colours below however any colours can work for this pattern;

CHICK

YARN A – 280 Lemon OR 403 Lemonade
YARN B – 524 Apricot (Beak)

BUNNY

YARN C – 247 Bluebird OR 392 Lime Juice OR 518 Marshmallow

Hook Size(s): 3 mm (closest US size D/3). Pattern will work in other hooks and yarns though finished size may be different.

Gauge: 5dc / 5 rows = 2cm [0.8″]

Obtaining the correct gauge is critical for this project as otherwise it may not fit the 5 cm [2″] small chocolate egg size. To save time, take time to check gauge.

You will also need:

2 x 6 mm black safety eyes (per chick or bunny)
5 cm [2″] high chocolate eggs
black embroidery thread
small amount of stuffing
a yarn needle
stitch markers
scissors

Finished Dimensions: 11 cm [4.3”] chick / 13 cm [5.1″] bunny

Abbreviations

Slip Stitch (sl st) Insert hook in st indicated, yarn over and draw through all loops.
Chain (ch): Bring yarn over hook from back to front and grab it with hook. Draw hooked yarn through slip knot and onto hook.
Space (sp): The gap between stitches or chains.
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.

Pattern Notes

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: Most of the 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.
[ … ] Repeat section in square brackets until specified

Pattern

CHICK / BUNNY BODY

Rnd 1: With A / C; working into a magic ring, 6 dc. (6 sts)

Rnd 2: [2 dc in each st] six times. (12 sts)

Rnd 3: [1 dc in the next st, 2 dc in next st] six times. (18 sts)

Rnd 4: [1 dc in the next 2 sts, 2 dc in next st] six times. (24 sts)

Rnd 5: [1 dc in the next 3 sts, 2 dc in next st] six times. (30 sts)

Rnd 6: [1 dc in the next 4 sts, 2 dc in next st] six times. (36 sts)

Rnds 7 – 21: dc around

Rnd 22: [1 dc in the next 4 sts, dc2tog] six times. (30 sts)

Rnd 23: [1 dc in the next 3 sts, dc2tog] six times. (24 sts)

Rnd 24: [1 dc in the next 2 sts, dc2tog] six times. (18 sts)

Rnd 25: [1 dc in the next 1 st, dc2tog] six times. (12 sts)

Rnd 26: [dc2tog] six times. (6 sts)

Fasten off with a sl st to the next st, but leave a long yarn tail. Use the tail end to sew up the remaining 6 sts.
Push the top towards the starting magic ring to create a bowl shape that your egg will fit into.

CHICK / BUNNY HEAD

Rnds 1 – 5: With A / C; make as BODY. (30 sts)

Rnds 6 – 13: dc around

Rnd 14: [1 dc in the next 3 sts, dc2tog] six times. (24 sts)

Rnd 15: [1 dc in the next 2 sts, dc2tog] six times. (18 sts).

Fasten off but leave a long yarn tail

Add eyes between rnds 6 -7 approx. 4 sts apart
With black thread embroider eye brows just above the eyes using the photos as a guide
BUNNY ONLY: With black thread embroider nose and mouth using the photos as a guide
Stuff the head

BUNNY ARMS Make 2.
Rnd 1: With C; working into a magic ring, 8 dc. (8 sts)

Rnds 2 – 6: dc around

Fold the sides of the arms together so the stitches align. Work dc in each st. (4 sts)
Fasten off but leave a long yarn tail

BUNNY EARS Make 2.
Rnd 1: With C; working into a magic ring, 6 dc. (6 sts)

Rnd 2: [1 dc in the next 2 sts, 2 dc in next st] twice. (8 sts)

Rnd 3: [1 dc in the next 3 sts, 2 dc in next st] twice. (10 sts)

Rnds 4 – 8: dc around

Rnd 9: [1 dc in the next 3 sts, dc2tog] twice. (8 sts)

Rnd 10: [1 dc in the next 2 sts, dc2tog] twice. (6 sts)

Fasten off with a sl st to the next st, but leave a long yarn tail.

CHICK WINGS Make 2.

Rnd 1: With A; working into a magic ring, 6 dc. (6 sts)

Rnd 2: [1 dc in the next 2 sts, 2 dc in next st] twice. (8 sts)

Rnd 3: [1 dc in the next 3 sts, 2 dc in next st] twice. (10 sts)

Rnds 4 – 5: dc around

Rnd 6: [1 dc in the next 3 sts, dc2tog] twice. (8 sts)

Fold the sides of the wings together so the stitches align. Work dc, through both sides, in each st. (4 sts)
Fasten off but leave a long yarn tail

CHICK BEAK

Rnd 1: With B; working into a magic ring, 4 dc. (4 sts)

Rnd 2: [1 dc in the next st, 2 dc in next st] twice. (6 sts)

Rnd 3: dc around

Fasten off with a sl st to the next st, but leave a long yarn tail.

FINISHING

BUNNY

Attach the ears on top of the head
Attach head on the top of the body
Attach arms either side of the body
Add an egg treat to the tummy

CHICK

Attach the beak onto the head, between the eyes, over rnds 7-8
Attach head on the top of the body
Attach wings either side of the body
Add an egg treat to the tummy

And that’s it!

I hope you enjoy your pattern.

A collection of five crochet toys featuring three pastel bunnies and two bright yellow chicks. Arranged together, they showcase their sweet details, making a perfect handmade Easter gift or decoration.

So grab your hooks and yarn as Belly Buddies are ready to hop straight into your heart. Make one, make a dozen, and share the joy of handmade charm this spring! If you enjoyed this pattern, you can view a list of my other free patterns here.

Please consider giving this pattern a love by leaving 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

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21Feb2025

Merry Marble Cowl | The MAL Reveal & Pattern Release

Posted in Collaboration, Crochet, Crochet Accessories, Crochet Kit, Independent Design, Pattern Release by Keep Calm and Crochet On UK

The time has come, my crochet friends, to reveal the finished design for the Merry Marbles Makealong (MAL)! I’ve been bursting with excitement to share this colourful project, and now it’s finally here. Although the MAL was designed with fun and vibrant holiday vibes in mind, I think the cowl would be perfect for anytime of the year – in fact I’m already planning on making another one!

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Collage for Pinterest showcasing the Merry Marbles make-a-long, featuring images of completed rainbow cowl.

For those that weren’t aware this latest make-along was a collaboration between myself, Kitey, aka The Yarn Whisperer, and Mrs G Makes and was designed to be a perfect pop of colour for your winter wardrobe.

The Merry Marbles Cowl is a cosy yet lightweight accessory that combines playful stitches with a cheerful, rainbow design. It’s simple enough for adventurous beginners but has enough detail to keep seasoned crocheters entertained. Plus, the funnel shaped design ensures maximum warmth, making it as practical as it is pretty.

Reveal of the Merry Marbles make-a-long cowl, featuring sections of sparkly white with eye-catching bold rainbow elements. Lovely funnel shaped cowl perfect to add a pop of colour to any outfit.

As always it’s been an absolute delight to work with Kitey and his gorgeously coloured yarn, I love these collabs we do – it always provides me with an opportunity to work with gorgeous yarn which in turn makes the design process super enjoyable.

The yarn choice for the Merry Marbles was a lovely mix of rainbow shades (red, purple, blue, green, yellow and orange) alongside a large 100g skein of sparkly natural yarn. The photos don’t do that twinkle justice, it’s just lovely and who doesn’t love a bit of sparkle in the festive season (or at anytime)!

Collage featuring hand-dyed yarn inspired by toy marbles, with skeins of undyed sparkly cream, and vibrant mini skeins of rainbow tones.

Kitey perfectly captured some excitingly vivid shades for the rainbow that were a joy to work with, and of course you didn’t have to use the colours as a rainbow you could place them in any order you wish.

Also in the kit, as always, were the cutest crochet accessories from the fabulous Mrs G Makes. Continuing the marbles theme Amanda created the sweetest set of ‘marble’ stitch markers which were such a useful tool when making this cowl.

Close-up of three stitch markers from the Mischievous Magpie make-a-long kit: beautiful bright beads that catches the light with a subtle shimmer like a toy marble, adding a playful touch to each crochet project.

Although the official end date of the MAL has come to an end DO NOT feel any panic or worry that you didn’t keep up or haven’t even started yet. The deadline was there just for those people that like a deadline, for everyone else, enjoy it when you have the time to use the yarn and / or make the shawlette – there is no rush to this crochet makealong! And sometime in the future you will have a beautiful finished object that you can gift for someone special or to enjoy yourself.

And of course it makes us all incredibly happy to see YOUR photos of the various stages of progress you make with your projects on social media – and I hope you will continue to do so as you finish your cowls’ if you haven’t had chance to make it or finish it off yet.

Collage of Merry Marbles crochet cowl works-in-progress and images of the kit yarn, created by participants in the winter make-a-long 2025, showcasing various stages of completion.

❤️ SAVE MERRY MARBLES COWL ON RAVELRY ❤️

Now that the MAL is over, I have listed the pattern in my usual pattern stores for you to make your own version of the Merry Marbles Cowl:

I would suggest 7 different colours and at least 220g would work best; e.g. 100g of cream, 6 x 20g of rainbow or different colours with a 3.5mm (Closest US size E/4) hook. The pattern includes a written version with supporting charts, detailed stitch explanations, and is available in both UK and US terminology.

We do hope that you’ve enjoyed this fun make-along, I know Kitey, Amanda and I have thoroughly enjoyed it!

My lovely mum showcasing the Merry Marbles Cowl where you can clearly see the beautiful rainbow and the unique funnel shape of the cowl.

Sassy Sardines Summer Makealong

Now that the Merry Marbles MAL has wrapped up, don’t despair! Our next Spring / Summer make-a-long 2025 is going to be launching in April 2025! In our 9th collaboration we’ll dive into a splash of colour and creativity with the Sassy Sardines Cowl – a fun and vibrant crochet adventure perfect for brightening up your wardrobe. Packed with a playful design and cheerful vibes, this project is all about celebrating the sunny season with a community of like-minded makers. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or new to the craft, grab your hooks and join the fun as we stitch up some serious summer sass!

And I’m just going to say for our 10th collaboration (Winter 2025) we are already planning something truly epic that you won’t want to miss out on!

Previous Makealongs

Collage of Keep Calm and Crochet On UK and Yarn Whisperer Collabs featuring Solstice Garden, Whispers of the Sea, Mellow Mallow, Dragonfly River, Peppermint Pageant and Graceful Gull. Mischievous Magpie and Merry Marbles.

All the patterns for our previous make-alongs (Solstice Garden, Whispers of the Sea, Mellow Mallow, Dragonfly River, Peppermint Pageant, Graceful Gull, Mischievous Magpie and Merry Marbles) are available from my pattern shops if you want to hook something up from your own curated hand dyed yarn stash.

Some of these patterns are now also available as a physical printed pattern from my Etsy shop; this was so, upon request, that I am able to take patterns with me to shows – and I’m adding to the list all the time.

Make sure you are signed up to the blog (or my newsletter) and The Yarn Whisperer’s newsletter to be the first to know when the next new collaboration projects are revealed!

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, thank you for your support.

15Jan2025

New Pattern Release | Sleepy Bear Wash Cloth

Posted in Crochet, Crochet Accessories, Designing, From the Stash, Independent Design, Pattern Release, Sale / Special Offer, Stitches, Tah-Dah by Keep Calm and Crochet On UK

I’m so excited to share my latest pattern with you – the Sleepy Bear Wash Cloth! If you love practical yet adorable crochet projects, then this one is for you. Perfect for bath time, baby gifts, or simply to bring a little extra cuteness to your daily routine, this wash cloth is sure to be a favourite.

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Pinterest collage of the Sleepy Bear crochet wash cloth by Keep Calm and Crochet On UK

Who doesn’t love a cuddly bear? Inspired by the cosy vibes of bedtime and my love for creating things that make people smile, the Sleepy Bear Wash Cloth came to life. I wanted to design something functional yet charming, and a bear-themed wash cloth felt like the perfect fit.

The bear’s sweet, sleepy face is sure to bring a bit of joy to your bathroom or nursery. Whether you are making it for yourself, as a gift for new parents, or even for kids who could use a fun way to make bath time less of a chore, this wash cloth ticks all the boxes.

Multi-functional crochet sleepy bear wash cloths that allow you to wash, entertain and play with your baby.

The yarn I used for this wash cloth was Anchor Baby Pure Cotton Yarn (50g, length: 165m) which is a 100% unmercerised DK (light worsted) yarn which I combined with a with a 3.5mm hook (US size E). Anchor Baby Pure Cotton Yarn is available in 24 colours which range from a soft muted powdered colours or your more traditional pastel shades. Importantly it’s hypoallergenic and saliva resistant (love this) to be entirely safe for babies from a newborn upwards

The only other things you will need for this project are; some stitch markers, black embroidery thread and a tapestry needle

❤️ SAVE SLEEPY BEAR WASHCLOTH ON RAVELRY ❤️

A flat-lay image of the Sleepy Bear Washcloth, crocheted in soft cotton yarn, displayed alongside a matching yarn skein in neutral tones, showcasing its texture and charm.

The Sleepy Bear Wash Cloth is made with cotton yarn, which is ideal for durability and gentle cleansing. The finished size is just right for little hands, but it’s versatile enough for adults to enjoy as well. Pair this washcloth with handmade soap or bath salts for a thoughtful, one-of-a-kind gift. Great for baby showers, birthdays, or just because! And if you’re a fan of crochet wash cloths, you might also enjoy my other patterns, like the Cute Critter Wash Cloths or the Crochet Cloth Trio.

The pattern now available for purchase, in both UK and US terms, from my usual pattern platforms – but scroll down to see limited special offer!

This pattern will be available for FREE on Ravelry from 3pm GMT (10am EST) on 15 January 2025 for 24hrs as part of the Winter Wash Cloth Series Blog Hop by Two Brothers Blankets.

Blog Hop Instructions:

1: Visit Two Brothers Blankets and get the coupon code.

2: Click on the button below to go to the Sleepy Bear Wash Cloth on Ravelry.

3: Click “buy it now,” click “use a coupon code,” enter code, click apply and the pattern will be yours for free!

4: If you are reading this after the promotion has passed you can purchase the wash cloth from any of the links to my patterns stores (links above)

All the patterns from the Winter Wash Cloth Blog Hop are also available in a limited edition bundle. Go straight to the bundle via the link below:

The bundle includes all 31 designs, featured in the event, that you can download to your favourite device. You’ll then be able to print out individual patterns at your convenience.

Crocheting is such a wonderful way to add a little handmade love to everyday items. I hope you enjoy making the Sleepy Bear Wash Cloth as much as I enjoyed designing it. I can’t wait to see your versions of the Sleepy Bear Wash Cloth. 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!

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.

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8Jan2025

Looking back at 2024 | And coming up…

Posted in Crochet by Keep Calm and Crochet On UK

Hi there, and welcome to my post where I reflect on my crochet adventures from 2024. I find reviewing the past year so helpful—it’s surprising how quickly I forget what has been accomplished as my mind races ahead to the next project!

Collage of designs from Keep Calm and Crochet On UK that were shared in 2024.

As we step into another year together I just want to start this post with the BIGGEST THANK YOU to each and every one of you. 💖 Whether you’ve bought a pattern, tried a kit, joined a make along, or simply liked, shared, or commented on my blog posts or social media — your support has meant the absolute world to me.

January / February 2024

At the start of the year I was delighted to share some designs in Crochet Now and Simply Crochet magazine including the Triple Ripple Wrap and the Cubist Wall hanging and the Tea Set in Your Crochet and Knitting magazine. There was also the gang of FREE Woolpup crochet patterns that I created for Woolbox which were a really fun commission.

Triple Ripple Wrap crochet pattern by Heather C Gibbs which appeared in CN103 of Crochet Now magazine.

The early months brought the re-release of two fan favourites: Lola the Lovebug, with her heart-shaped antennae, and Paul the Polar Bear, with his lovely white coat. Both patterns were updated and reintroduced in UK and US terms, and it felt great to check a couple such independent releases off my long list!

Critter Cloths crochet pattern by Heather C Gibbs, available from KCACOUK Designs from Etsy, Ravelry, LoveCrafts and Ribblr.

However one of my favourite designs from January last year was the Critter Washcloths I created for the 2024 Winter Washcloth Blog Hop. Don’t forget, the Winter Washcloth series is back for 2025, and I’ve got an exciting new design you won’t want to miss!

My second favourite design of Jan / Feb has to be my FREE Speckled Rainbow Wrap crochet pattern which features 58 colours – since I completed it, it’s a scarf that I wear ever such a lot.

Speckled Rainbow Wrap crochet pattern by Heather C Gibbs, available from KCACOUK Designs from Etsy, Ravelry, LoveCrafts and Ribblr or FREE on this blog.

March / April 2024

March / April was extremely busy! And there were a lot of patterns that I enjoyed creating. First there was the release of the brand new crochet kit, Bunty Bear, available both as a kit and a pattern—something I’ve been working towards, as requested. Then there was the Official Paddington Bear crochet pattern and the Official Moomins pattern for Crochet Now, which was such an honour to have a go at designing such iconic characters.

Equilibrium Wrap by Heather C Gibbs which appeared in the 'Balance' issue of Moorit crochet magazine.

I also had Zuri the neon Zebra featured in Simply Crochet magazine and I was delighted to be asked to take part in their fun Hook2Hook designer challenge again. But the pattern I’m going to choose as my favourite of March / April has to be Equilibrium Wrap which was featured in Moorit magazine – a delicate dance between stitches and space.

I was also really pleased to be asked to be interviewed by Lindsay, from the Making Stitches Podcast, in March where I had the pleasure of sharing my own journey into the world of crochet. And I also ticked another couple of re-released patterns off my list including the Dutch Bunnies and the FREE Jelly Bean Bunny.

Dutch Bunnies crochet pattern by Heather C Gibbs, available from KCACOUK Designs from Etsy, Ravelry, LoveCrafts and Ribblr.

Finally there were the new WoolCats crew to compliment the WoolPups gang for Woolbox. Phew! When I read all that back it does seem very busy couple of months!

May / June 2024

In May /June I shared a couple crochet book reviews; Hooked on Shakespeare and Crochet your own Dog which were really fun and I look forward to reviewing some more books in 2025.

There were also some more designs for magazines including Peaches the Pet Rabbit in Crochet Now, and I created a Green Hippo for Woolbox, but I think my favourite design during this period is my the Pretty Petals Sunflower Pincushion, which has been very a very popular crochet kit since it’s release. Not only handy for your pins it also doubles up as a handy storage pot for your stitch markers and small notions just by lifting up the flower from the base.

Pretty Petals Pincushion Crochet Kit by Heather C Gibbs, available from KCACOUK Designs from Etsy.

July / August 2024

Another busy couple of months with lots of new and re-released designs! We saw the re-release of the FREE Colbie Cowl crochet pattern, the FREE Bean Stitch mug cosy, and Gene the Gingerbread amigurumi as we celebrated a bit of Christmas in July. I was also overjoyed to take part in the Furls blog hop with the FREE Foundry Fusion Shawl which is a lovely big accessory to wrap yourself up in. I also had a lovely chat with Kitey in a new Fibre Friends article.

During the summer months I also released one of my favourite crochet kits of the year, Fletcher the Frog, for my Dear Ewe store. This was definitely another of the most popular crochet kits I made last year which included the kit selling out at the Wool@Jct13 show we did in the summer.

There were a few more designs for magazines including Freya the Squirrel for Your Crochet and Knitting magazine, I think definitely one of my favourites of these months was Elroy the Elephant for Crochet Now magazine.

Elroy the Elephant crochet pattern by Heather C Gibbs which appeared in CN110 of Crochet Now magazine.

I was also delighted to create two new granny square designs for Simply Crochet magazine for Granny Square Day 2024.

September / October 2024

Without doubt one of my favourites releases of early September was the Festival Fusi o n Cowl which was a special project created for lovely crochet friends at the Carry on Crafting Festival. I’ve made two version of this cowl now and they get a lot of wear! I also did another crochet book review for Radiant Raffia where I completed a lovely hanging basket for my aloe. I also re-released my Briar Blanket pattern which is a perfect cosy project to snuggle up.

Festival Fusion Cowl crochet pattern by Heather C Gibbs, available from KCACOUK Designs from Etsy, Ravelry, LoveCrafts and Ribblr.

In October there was also Jade the Witch and the Sugarplum Unicorn for Your Crochet and Knitting magazine and Ghoulie the Ghost Cushion for Crochet Now. I released two FREE crochet patterns with Jaunty Jack-o’-Lantern and the Feline Fancy headband.

October also saw another of my favourite designs of the year, the Mischievous Magpie Shawlette which was our Summer 2024 Makealong. This is a design that I’m proud of and I love how it turned out! And of course we are currently still working on our Winter 2024 Makealong, Merry Marbles, which will finish 31 January 2025. And there are already plans lined up for summer and winter makealongs for this year which are some lovely projects I’m certainly looking forward to.

Mischievous Magpie Shawlette crochet pattern by Heather C Gibbs, available from KCACOUK Designs from Etsy, Ravelry, LoveCrafts and Ribblr.

November / December 2024

In November I re-released my Poppy pattern to support the Royal British Legion in their poppy campaign. I can say that the pattern raised £77.50 in 2024 which is fantastic, and I hope we can continue to raise money each year.

There were new patterns, like the Frosted Forest Houndstooth Wrap in I Like Crochet magazine, the Bloom and Grow Embroidered Beanie and Woodsy the Winter Owl and one of my favourite designs of the year the Sugarplum Beary in Crochet Now magazine.

Sugarplum Beary crochet pattern by Heather C Gibbs which appeared in CN114 of Crochet Now magazine.

There was also the re-release of festive favourite Eggnog the Elf, whose updated pattern is now available as a crochet kit. There was also the release of the FREE crochet pattern Figgy the Festive Gnome and my other favourite design from the end of the year, the Gnome Sweet Gnome advent calendar.

Gnome Sweet Gnome advent calendar crochet pattern by Heather C Gibbs, available from KCACOUK Designs from Etsy, Ravelry, LoveCrafts and Ribblr.

Coming up for 2025

What a fabulously crafty year it’s been! I managed to create a few person projects but I’ll share details of those later. I have also managed to collect more works in progress (WIPs)! I certainly need to do a bit of a WIP purge for 2025 (but I feel I say that every year – don’t we all?!).

This week I learned that Keep Calm and Crochet On U.K. has been recognized by FeedSpot as one of the Top 100 Crochet Blogs on the web, coming in at 26th on a list of fabulous creative blogs! The crochet blogs are selected from thousands of blogs on the web and ranked by relevancy, authority, social media followers and freshness – so that was really exciting! I’m so grateful for the support of readers and fellow crafters who make this journey so rewarding. Thank you for helping Keep Calm and Crochet On U.K. thrive!

So what else can you look forward to in 2025? Well I have a couple of personal crochet challenges that I’m going to start (more about those soon) and I can say that there are things in place for new releases in some of your favourite crochet magazines this year which I’m looking forward to sharing with you. I’ve got some new exciting blog hops that I’m going to be taking part in and of course some fun new collaborations – all in all it’s shaping up to be another exciting and creative year!

I’d love to here which was your favourite pattern of mine, or about what you’ve finished in 2025, or what you are looking forward to making in 2025 – drop me a comment below.

Until next time; keep calm and crochet on my friends xx

1Jan2025

Winter Washcloth | January Blog Hop 2025

Posted in Blogging, Crochet by Keep Calm and Crochet On UK

Happy New Year! I’m thrilled to kick off 2025 by joining the Winter Washcloth Crochet Blog Hop once again! From January 1–31, I’ll be one of many designers contributing to this exciting event.

A collage graphic of many of the designs available in the Winter WashCloths blog hop running from 1 - 31 January 2025.

If you’re new to the concept of a crochet blog hop, it’s like an online networking event hosted by members of the crochet blogging community. Think of it as a virtual scavenger hunt where you discover new designers to follow and collect free patterns along the way! You’ll “hop” from one designer’s blog to another to grab the free pattern details. By participating, you’re helping us designers grow our businesses (thank you!), while snagging a free crochet pattern for yourself—win-win!

This particular event is being run by Two Brothers Blankets and will feature 31 fabulous crochet washcloth designs. Crochet washcloths are such a fun and practical project to make – washing things has never been so fun!

Crochet washcloths make an excellent beginner project, but they’re just as enjoyable for seasoned crocheters. These small, practical items are perfect for a quick win, offering that satisfying dopamine boost from completing a project in no time!

A collage graphic of seven different designs available in the Winter Wash Cloths blog hop running from 1 - 31 January 2025.

Starting TODAY, Wednesday, 1 January 2025, a brand-new pattern will be shared daily by 11 PM UK time (6 PM EST). Best of all, you can download each pattern as a free PDF for 24 hours using the provided coupon code!

Of course, I have a brand-new pattern to share that I think you’ll love! I’m keeping the exact date and design a surprise for now—though you’ve probably guessed it’s a washcloth of some sort. Stay tuned, and be sure to follow along on social media for links to the coupon codes to snag each day’s free pattern!

A collage graphic of eight different designs available in the Winter WashCloths blog hop running from 1 - 31 January 2025.

How the event works:

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.
Click the link and scroll down the designer’s post until you see the download button.
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.

If you can’t wait for everyday in January, because you want all the things now, then there is also an option to purchase the exclusive pattern bundle at a saving! This pattern bundle of crochet wash cloths won’t last for long it’s only until the end of January 2025.

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.

And that’s a wrap! Whether you grab a free PDF pattern to crochet for yourself or explore an amazing collection of washcloth designs from talented creators, you’re in for a treat. Don’t forget to show some love to my fellow designers as they share their beautiful patterns throughout the blog hop!

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

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