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23/12/2020

3 Simple Ways to Make a Pompom

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3 simple ways to make a pompom without any fancy kit involved.

Pompoms are a fun yarny activity for all the family and are a great starter project for any craft lover. Within todays tutorial I will be showing you how to make a pompom in three simple ways using things from around the home - No need for any fan-dangled gadgets!
Make pompoms using:
  • Your hand
  • Toilet rolls
  • A fork
This tutorial has been created as part of my Joining Lines in Nature community project in partnership with Bulwell Arts Festival and Rebalancing the Outer Estates Foundation.

Let's Get Started!
Grab yourself some yarn, a pair of scissors, a cuppa and lets get pom-pom making!
 

How-to make pompoms using your hand

As if you can make pompoms with your hands! Mind blown!

Why didn't I know about this technique when I was a child? I have strong memories of making pompoms using cardboard disks - nightmare! Not only was it very fiddly to get the yarn into the centre of the disk, I would always cut the disks to shreds on the final stage.

All you need for this technique is some yarn and a pair of scissors. This is my kind of project, it makes it super accessible too, no fancy tools or gadgets just yourself and some winding. Boom - it's as simple as that. 

What you'll need:
  • Scraps of yarn
  • Your hand
  • Scissors

What to do:
​
1. Cut a strand of yarn approximately 12cm long

2. Place your strand of yarn in between your fingers

NOTE: Depending on what size pompom you are after will determine which fingers to place your strand of yarn. Use 2 x fingers for small a pompom, 3 x fingers for medium a pompom and 4 x fingers for large a pompom. Place your strand in the middle set of fingers.

3. Grab the end of your ball of yarn and lay it over your fingers. Whilst holding in place, begin to wrap the yarn around your fingers.

4. Continue wrapping until you are happy with the size of your pompom. The more times you wrap the yarn around your fingers the fuller and fluffier your pompom will be.


NOTE: If you don't wrap the yarn enough times your pompom may appear gappy - this is ok though, if you're after a looser look. Play around with different thicknesses until you have your desired look.

5. Once you are happy with the size of your pompom, snip the thread attached to your ball of yarn and move that out of the way. Bring up the two ends of the original strand you placed over your hand at the beginning and tie in a single knot. 

6. Gently slide your pompom off your fingers, tighten the knot and create a secure double knot.

NOTE: It is important that you tie the yarn as tight as you can so that it sinches your wrapped yarn in as much as possible. If you leave the centre tie too loose then your pompom is at risk of falling apart easily.

7. With a pair of sharp scissors cut the looped threads so they are spikey. Do this on both sides of the centre tie. Your pompom should now have filled out and is almost ready.

8. Roll the pompom around the palms of your hands to fluff it up - check for any loose threads. Begin to trim any stray threads that may be poking out. 

9. Voila - Your pompom is now complete.
 

How-to make pom-poms using toilet rolls

Toilet rolls are like magic - they have so many uses!

I love a method that involves a spot of reuse/recycle. Toilet rolls can play such a big part when it comes to crafting, from model making, to bubble blowing and now pompom making.

What you'll need:
  • Yarn
  • 2 x empty toilet roll tubes
  • Scissors

What to do:
​
1. Cut a strand of yarn approximately 20cm long

2. Place your each end of your strand into each end of one toilet roll tube in between the fork prongs

NOTE: My fork has four prongs (three gaps) so I popped it in the centre gap. If your fork has more prongs don't worry, simply place the yarn in one of the middle gaps and you can re-jig once your pompom is off the fork.

3. Grab the end of your ball of yarn and lay it over the fork. Whilst holding in place, begin to wrap the yarn around the fork.

4. Continue wrapping until you are happy with the size of your pompom. The more times you wrap the yarn around the fork the fuller and fluffier your pompom will be.


NOTE: If you don't wrap the yarn enough times your pompom may appear gappy - this is ok though, if you're after a looser look. Play around with different thicknesses until you have your desired look.

5. Once you are happy with the size of your pompom, snip the thread attached to your ball of yarn and move that out of the way. Bring up the two ends of the original strand you placed over your fork at the beginning and tie the ends in a TIGHT knot.

NOTE: It is important that you tie the yarn as tight as you can so that it sinches your wrapped yarn in as much as possible. If you leave the centre tie too loose then your pompom is at risk of falling apart easily.

6. Gently slide your pompom off the fork.

7. With a pair of sharp scissors cut the looped threads so they are spikey. Do this on both sides of the centre tie. Your pompom should now have filled out and is almost ready.

8. Roll the pompom around the palms of your hands to fluff it up - check for any loose threads. Begin to trim any stray threads that may be poking out. 

9. Voila - Your pompom is now complete.
 

How-to make pom poms using a fork

Making pompoms with a fork is great fun and super simple!
​

What a genius way to make pompoms - who would have thought a simple kitchen utensil could create such a fun accessory.
​
What you'll need:
  • Scraps of yarn
  • A fork
  • Scissors

What to do:​
​

1. Cut a strand of yarn approximately 12cm long

2. Place your strand of yarn in between the fork prongs

NOTE: My fork has four prongs (three gaps) so I popped it in the centre gap. If your fork has more prongs don't worry, simply place the yarn in one of the middle gaps and you can re-jig once your pompom is off the fork.

3. Grab the end of your ball of yarn and lay it over the fork. Whilst holding in place, begin to wrap the yarn around the fork.

4. Continue wrapping until you are happy with the size of your pompom. The more times you wrap the yarn around the fork the fuller and fluffier your pompom will be.


NOTE: If you don't wrap the yarn enough times your pompom may appear gappy - this is ok though, if you're after a looser look. Play around with different thicknesses until you have your desired look.

5. Once you are happy with the size of your pompom, snip the thread attached to your ball of yarn and move that out of the way. Bring up the two ends of the original strand you placed over your fork at the beginning and tie the ends in a TIGHT knot.

NOTE: It is important that you tie the yarn as tight as you can so that it sinches your wrapped yarn in as much as possible. If you leave the centre tie too loose then your pompom is at risk of falling apart easily.

6. Gently slide your pompom off the fork.

7. With a pair of sharp scissors cut the looped threads so they are spikey. Do this on both sides of the centre tie. Your pompom should now have filled out and is almost ready.

8. Roll the pompom around the palms of your hands to fluff it up - check for any loose threads. Begin to trim any stray threads that may be poking out. 

9. Voila - Your pompom is now complete.
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13/10/2020

Crochet Pumpkin Patch Tutorial

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Group of crochet pumpkin patches in orange cotton ad natural twine on a plan background surrounded by autumn leaves

Crochet Pumpkin Patch

Pumpkins are popping up all over the place at the moment so I just had to get in on all the fun. I have previously created a pumpkin tutorial but fancied something a little bit different this year. I have been getting into upcycling more and more recently and thought it would be fun to have a go at designing my own applique patches to attach to old plain t-shirts or even my dungarees! What better design to start with than a cute little pumpkin!
Detail of crochet twine pumpkin patch on a plain background surrounded by autumn leaves
It was super fun to make and is so versatile. Simply mix and match colours and textures and experiment with different yarn weights to explore the oodles of possibilities- the size of your finished crochet pumpkin patch will either be larger or smaller than the one I created if you use anything other than DK weight yarn. I designed mine for upcycling but its ideal for sooo many different projects... hair accessories, crochet pumpkin garland, crochet coaster set, wall hangings, keyrings, the list really does go on. 

I hope you enjoy this crochet tutorial. You can find the written instructions below and my very first (proper!) crochet video tutorial over on my YouTube channel. (Its also further down this page too just for ease!)

Happy crocheting.

FOLLOW Written TUTORIAL HERE!
WATCH THE VIDEO TUTORIAL HERE!
Orange crochet pumpkin patch applique on a plain background surrounded by autumn leaves

Materials and Equipment

  • Yarn | You will need two yarn colours, preferably an orange and a green but these fun crochet pumpkin patches can be worked up in any yarn weight, fibre and colours (I used Drops Muskat in dark orange and apple green)
  • Hook | Use a corresponding crochet hook to suit your chosen yarn. (I used a 4mm crochet hook with DK weight yarn.)
  • Darning needle
  • Scissors

Abbreviations

Ch: Chain
St(s): Stitch(s)
Slst: Slip Stitch
Rnd: Round
Nx: Next
Dc: Double Crochet (UK) - (US sc)
Htr: Half Treble (UK) - (US hdc) 
Tr: Treble Crochet (UK) - (US dc)

Measurements

Approx. 6cm x 7cm
WATCH THE VIDEO TUTORIAL HERE!

 
Group of orange cotton crochet pumpkin patches on a plain background surrounded by autumn leaves

PUMPKIN PATCH | Pattern Starts...

BODY
Using your orange yarn work in rounds as follows:

Rnd 1: Ch 3, work 7 dc into third ch from the hook. [7]

Rnd 2: 2 dc in first st, 3 dc in nx st, then as follows in each st around, 2 dc, dc, 2 dc, 3 dc, 2 dc. [15]

Rnd 3: (Dc, htr) in first st, 2 htr in nx st, htr in nx 3 sts, 2 htr, (htr, dc), dc, (dc, htr), 2 htr, htr in nx 3 st, 2 htr, (htr, dc) in last st. [23]

Rnd 4: Dc in first st, 2 htr in nx st, 2 tr, 2 tr, 2 tr, htr, 2 htr, htr, 2 htr, htr, dc in nx 3 sts, htr, 2 htr, htr, 2 htr, htr, 2 tr, 2 tr, 2 tr, 2 htr, dc. [35] Slip st to fasten off.

STORK
With pumpkin base facing you, attach your green yarn to the top of the second to last st of rnd 4 and work as follows:

Dc into same st as you attached your yarn. Work dc into nx st along. 
​Ch 5, turn. Work dc into second ch from hook, 2 dc into nx ch, dc into nx 2 chs.
​Dc into nx st along on the orange pumpkin base, dc into nx st. Slip st and fasten off. 

​Sew in your ends and voila!

...Pattern Ends

Happy Halloween my lovelies. Autumn is totes my favourite season, what's yours?
​Ax

PUMPKIN PATCH | Video Tutorial...

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27/3/2018

Simple Easter Bunny Crochet Pattern

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Tutorial Tuesday Crochet Easter Bunny

I started the year with a huge to do list of good intentions but its bloomin Easter already and I'm lagging behind. I absolutely love being organised and planning but I just can't seem to get my patterns completed at the right time! I'm currently working up two gorgeous bunnies to complement my amigurumi range over in the Esty shop but they are in no way ready to launch... oh, did I mention its Easter this weekend! Doh! Oh well, they will be available at some point during spring at the very least.

Anywho, so not to totally miss out on the Easter making frenzy I thought I would share a pattern a designed a couple of years ago for a workshop. This cute little bunny pattern is a great next step project for beginners as it is super quick to make, using just a couple of increases and decreases. 

I have written the pattern out, starting from the top of the head and closing at the bottom to create a flat base which will form a small toy that stands freely (...in theory!) But for the chocolate lovers out there, why not finish at round 19 and pop a cream egg in the middle instead? This makes a great gift idea and come on, who doesn't love a chocolate filled bunny?! I know I do, but I'd fill mine with a caramel egg instead. Don't get me started on the 'cream egg is not a cream egg as I know it' fiasco!

Ooh and lastly - Have you heard? I will be once again heading over to the fabulous Knit Nottingham this June and teaching an Amigurumi Workshop. We'll be working up this pattern as well as other super cute animals. To find out more or to book your place (if there is any left) click here! 

​For those that just can't wait, here's the pattern... enjoy!

​Materials and Equipment

  • Yarn | These cute little bunnies can be worked up in any yarn weight and fibre (I have used three colours of Stylecraft Classique Cotton for each bunny)
  • Hook | Use a crochet hook which corresponds with the yarn weight you have chosen. (I used a 2.5mm hook with DK yarn. I like my amigurumi stitches to be worked up tightly so always go down a hook size or two to allow for this)
  • Soft toy stuffing
  • Darning needle
  • Scissors

​Abbreviations

Ch: Chain
St(s): Stitch(s)
Slst: Slip Stitch
Rnd: Round
Rw: Row
Dc: Double crochet
Dc2tog: Double crochet two together

Measurements

Approx. 10cm x 4cm ​

BUNNY | Pattern Starts...

BODY
Using your coloured yarn work in rounds as follows:
Rnd 1: Ch 2, work 6 dc into second ch from the hook. [6]
Rnd 2: Work 2 dc into each st around. [12]
Rnd 3: Work dc into each st around. [12]
Rnd 4: 2 dc into first st, dc into next st, *2 dc in next st, dc into next st, repeat from * around. [18]
Rnd 5: Work dc into each st around. [18]
Rnd 6: 2 dc into first st, dc into next 2 sts, *2 dc in next st, dc into next 2 sts, repeat from * around. [24]
Rnd 7-19: Work dc into each st around. [24]

Sew up the centre of the ring to close the hole. Add toy stuffing then continue crocheting as follows:

Rnd 20: With right side facing you, work into back loop only as follows: *dc2tog, dc in next 2 sts repeat from * around. [18]
Rnd 21: ​*Dc2tog, dc in next st repeat from * around. [12]
Rnd 22: *Dc2tog, repeat from * around. [6] Fasten off and sew up to close hole.
Picture
FACE
Using white yarn make two cheeks as follows:

Rnd 1: Ch 2, work 6 dc into second ch from the hook. Join with a slst to form a ring. [6] Fasten off leaving a yarn tail about 15cm long. Repeat for the second cheek.

Sew up centre of each circle and attach cheeks into position onto the front of the body. Using black thread stitch two eyes and a nose to finish the face.
​
EARS
Make two coloured and two white ears as follows:

Rnd 1: Ch 4, dc into second ch from hook and across. [3] Turn.
Rnd 2-8: Ch 1, dc across. [3] Fasten off. Repeat for other ear panels.

Place one white ear panel on top of one coloured ear panel (wrong sides facing). Dc around the two long edges and one short edge. Fasten off leaving a yarn tail about 20cm long. Repeat with the other ear. Sew in ends and attach to the top of the head.
Picture
TAIL
Using white yarn make a mini pom pom as follows:

Wrap yarn around the end of two fingers several times, with a separate length of yarn wrap between your fingers, pull tight and knot to bunch yarn together. Remove from your fingers, trim the loop ends and roll between your palms. Trim off any straggly ends and attach your cute little pom pom tail to the bottom back of the body. Voila, your super cute crochet Easter Bunny is complete.

​...Pattern Ends

Have a Hoppy Easter my lovelies.
​Ax

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6/3/2018

Simple Crochet Daisy Chain Tutorial

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Tutorial Tuesday Simple Crochet Daisy Chain

Ooooh I made a video tutorial!!!! I am hoping this is the first of many video tutorials. I am venturing into new territory here and its been a massive learning curve. I never expected it to be plain sailing but by gum its made my brain hurt.

The tutorial is explained in UK terminology and has been designed as part of my Joining Lines project with children and beginners in mind. I hope you find it clear and enjoy having a go at making one of your own.

This simple daisy chain tutorial uses chain stitches and slip stitches and is a great project for anyone starting out on their crochet journey as well as those looking for a quick spring make.

It can be worked up in any yarn weight and fibre with corresponding crochet hook. I have used Stylecraft Classique DK Cotton in white and a 4mm crochet hook.

I'm all for breaking the mould, so I encourage you to experiment with the amount of chains you use. The video gives you a basic starting point, so go wild!
​​​

DAISY CHAIN | Pattern Starts....

Begin by creating a slip knot and attaching your yarn to your hook.
Rnd 1: Chain 10, join with a slip stitch to form a ring.
Rnd 2: *Chain 8, slip stitch into the ring to form a loop (your first petal). Repeat from * 5 more times.
​Fasten off and sew in ends.

...pattern ends


NOTES:
​

Chain: To make a chain stitch, simply put your yarn over your hook and pull through loop. Repeat, yarn over, pull through until you have your desired amount of chain stitches.

Slip Stitch: A slip stitch is very similar to a chain stitch, simply put your hook into the required space, in this case it is the centre of the ring, yarn over and pull though the centre of the ring and the loop on your hook.

Its as simple as that! Remember, have fun, enjoy the process and happy crocheting!

If you would like to be a part of the Joining Lines exhibitions this summer (read more), please send your finished white daisy chains and doilies, along with your name, age, gender, who taught you to crochet and why you crochet to:

Chris Tilley Community Champion
C/O April Towriess Crochet
Joining Lines Project
Bulwell Tesco Extra Community Room
Jennison Street
Nottingham
NG6 8EQ

If this pattern seems a little easy, then why not check out my  Unity Doily pattern, here.

Happy crocheting my lovelies. Ax

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6/2/2018

Unity Doily Crochet Pattern

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Tutorial Tuesday Unity Doily

I have always been a little bit in love with doilies. I inherited a few from my granny when I moved out of my parents house to live with my boyfriend, now husband - Mr Towriess some eleven years ago! Some might say they are a little old fashioned but I don't care, they're pretty. I have at least one doily in every room of my house. They are mainly neutral colours and used underneath candles and pictures but I do have a few bold coloured ones in the kids bedroom and at my work desk which I have made myself over the years. 

There are so many vintage patterns that, when created using modern yarns and colours, look amazing and so current. I could spend a whole year just experimenting with the handful of doily books and magazines my granny gave me and different yarns and colour combinations! I obviously haven't (yet!!) and wont anytime soon but my love for these beautiful pieces of crochet is what sparked the idea of a project I am super excited about. Joining Lines is a community project I am hosting this spring/summer 2018 and the reason I designed my Unity Doily. Find out more about my Joining Lines project here. 
​
Whether you're planning on getting involved in my  Joining Lines  project or are simply keen to crochet a doily, I hope you enjoy following this pattern and adore the end result in your home for years to come.

​Materials and ​Equipment

For doily
  • Yarn | This pretty doily pattern can be worked up in any yarn weight and fibre but I feel a cotton or cotton blend works best for this design. (I have used King Cole Bamboo Cotton)
  • Hook | Use a crochet hook which corresponds with the yarn weight you have chosen. (I used a 4mm hook with 4ply yarn)
  • Darning needle
  • Scissors

For blocking
  • Blocking mat (I use the foam interlocking kids play mats for all my blocking. I think I got a pack for about £10).
  • Rustless pins
  • Spray bottle and water

Abbreviations (UK)

Ch: Chain
Slst: Slip stitch
Dc: Double crochet
Htr: Half treble crochet
Tr: Treble crochet
Dtr: Double treble crochet
Sp: Space
Beg: Beginning
Nx: Next

Measurements

Approx. 24cm x 24cm

​UNITY DOILY | Pattern Starts...

Picture
Work in rounds as follows:

Ch 6, join with a slst to form a ring.
Rnd 1: Ch 3 (counts as tr), work into the ring as follows, tr, ch 2, *2 tr, ch 2, repeat from * 3 more time, join with slst into top of beg ch 3.

​
Rnd 2: Ch 6, slst between 2 tr to form a loop, * ch 3, slst between nx 2 tr, ch 6, slst between same 2 tr, repeat from * 3 more times, ch 3, slst to base of beg ch 6.

Rnd 3: Ch 3, slst into top of ch 6 of previous rw, * tr into ch 3 sp, ch 5, tr into same ch 3 sp, slst into nx ch 6 sp, repeat from * 3 more times, tr into nx ch 3 sp, ch 5, slst into top of beg ch 3.

Rnd 4: ​Ch 3, skip 2 st below, tr into top of tr below, * ch 9, skip 5 ch sp, tr into nx tr, skip 2 st, tr into nx tr, repeat from *3 more times, ch 9, skip 5 ch sp, slst to top of beg ch 3.

Rnd 5: Ch 9, work tr, ch 2, tr, ch 2, tr into ch 9 sp, ch 6, tr into 2 tr sp below, * ch 6, work tr, ch 2, tr, ch 2 tr into ch 9 sp, ch 6, tr into 2 tr sp below, repeat from * 2 more times, ch 6, work tr, ch 2, tr, ch 2 tr into ch 9 sp, ch 6, slst to top of beg ch 3.

Rnd 6: Ch 1 * 6 tr into ch 6 sp, slst into 2 ch sp, ch 4, slst into nx 2 ch sp, 6 tr into nx ch 6 sp, ch 1 repeat from * 4 more times, slst to beg tr.

Rnd 7: Ch 5, (counts as tr plus ch 2) tr into ch 1 sp below, ch 2, tr into same ch 1 sp below, * ch 10, skip 6 tr below, dc into ch 4 sp, ch 10, skip 6 tr below, working into ch 1 sp, tr, ch 2, tr, ch 2, tr, repeat from * 3 more times, ch 10, skip 6 tr below, dc into ch 4 sp, ch 10, skip 6 tr below, slst into top of beg ch 3.

Rnd 8: *2 dc into first ch 2 sp, 2 dc into nx ch 2 sp, work 2 dc, 2 htr, 2 tr, picot, 2 tr, 2 htr, 2 dc into first ch 10 sp, then work 2 dc, 2 htr, 2 tr, picot, 2 tr, 2 htr, 2 dc into nx ch 10 sp, repeat from * 4 more times, slst to beg dc.

[Picot : Ch 3, slst into second ch from hook.]

Fasten off and sew in ends.

...Pattern Ends


Blocking

I would always recommend blocking your work when creating doilies. There are many different ways to block crochet, if you're unsure YouTube has oodles of videos to guide you through the process. My preferred method of blocking is to wet block and here's what I do:

Once you have completed your piece and have sewn in all your ends, spray both sides of your doily with water, making sure that everywhere is completely wet. Now lay your doily flat on your blocking mat with the right side facing up. I don't think it's too important that the right side is facing up but I always do so I can make sure it's looking its best.

​Start pinning each point evenly spaced apart. Adjust were necessary until you are happy that your doily is pinned into a nice shape and all stitches are stretched flat. If needed, spray the surface again to make sure there is an even coverage of water. Now leave to dry. Drying times may vary depending on the piece your blocking, room temperature etc. I often block in the evening and then leave to dry over night.

Once dry, remove the pins and voila, your doily is ready to use.

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30/1/2018

Mini Heart Applique Crochet Pattern

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Tutorial Tuesday Banner - Crochet Hearts

Tutorial Tuesday Mini Heart Applique

With Valentines Day just around the corner here in the UK, what better way to show your loved ones you love them than with this cute little crochet heart. 

Add to the front of a card, string together to make a garland or applique to a top or a bag. Whatever you decide this little project is a great stash buster and is a super quick and easy make. Its also an ideal project for beginners looking to practice various stitches. ​

Materials and Equipment

  • Yarn | This little heart can be worked up in any yarn weight and fibre (I have used Stylecraft Classique Cotton)
  • Hook | Use a crochet hook which corresponds with the yarn weight you have chosen. (I used a 4mm hook with DK yarn)
  • Darning needle
  • Scissors

Abbreviations (UK)

Ch: Chain
Slst: Slip stitch
Dc: Double crochet
Htr: Half treble crochet
Tr: Treble crochet
Dtr: Doule treble crochet
Sp: Space
Nx: Next

Measurements

Approx. 4cm x 4cm

​​MINI HEART APPLIQUE | Pattern Starts...

Crochet heart chart
Ch 6, Work 3 dtr into 3rd ch from hook, 2 tr into nx sp, 2htr into nx sp, dc into nx sp, ch 2. Now work back along the foundation ch as follows. Dc into first sp (same sp as previous dc), 2 htr into nx sp, 2 tr into nx sp, 3 dtr into nx sp, ch 2, slst into same sp as 3dtr. ​Fasten off and sew in ends.

...Patterns ends.

Grid of four crocheted hearts in white, lime green, coral pink and teal on a grey background.
Lime green crocheted heart on a grey background.

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30/1/2018

Granny Square Heart Crochet Pattern

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Crochet granny square hearts in lime green and red dk weight cotton.

Tutorial Tuesday Granny Square Heart

Everyone loves a granny square pattern so you're going to love this cute granny heart pattern. Quick and simple to make and a fab stash buster project. I made these particular hearts for a workshop I am hosting with Nottingham WI on Valentines day so have them as samples at the moment but as soon as I have blasted through my to do list (...which is epic as always) I will be turning them into a garland for my girls room.
 
This pattern is worked in rounds using only one colour but can easily be adapted for a multi coloured design. Simply change colour on each round or on the last round only for a fun alternative. I personally love the block colour ones the best.

Materials and Equipment

  • Yarn | This granny heart can be worked up in any yarn weight and fibre (I have used Stylecraft Classique Cotton)
  • Hook | Use a crochet hook which corresponds with the yarn weight you have chosen. (I used a 4mm hook with DK yarn)
  • Darning needle
  • Scissors

​Abbreviations (UK)

Ch: Chain
Slst: Slip stitch
Dc: Double crochet
Htr: Half treble crochet
Dtr: Doule treble crochet
Sp: Space
Beg: Beginning
Nx: Next

Measurements

Approx. 8cm x 7cm

​GRANNY HEART | Pattern Starts...

Picture

​Ch 4, join with a slst to form a ring.
Rnd 1: Ch 3 (counts as tr), work 2 tr into ring, *ch 2, 3 tr into ring, repeat from * 1 more time, ch 2, slst into top of beg ch 3, turn.
Rnd 2: Ch 3 (counts as tr), work 2 tr into ch 2 sp, ch 2, 3 tr into same ch 2 sp *skip 3 tr, 3 tr into nx ch 2 sp, ch 2, 3 tr into same ch 2 sp, repeat from * 1 more time, slst into top of beg ch 3, turn.
Rnd 3: Skip 3 tr, 8 dtr into ch 2 sp, tr into nx sp, htr into nx sp, dc into nx 4 sp, [dc, htr, ch 2, htr, dc] into ch 2 sp, dc into nx sp, htr into nx sp, tr into nx sp, 8 dtr into ch 2 sp, slst to close heart. Fasten off and sew in ends.
​

... Pattern ends.

Crochet granny square heart in line green and teal DK weight cotton.
Crochet granny square heart in red DK weight cotton.
Crochet granny square heart in teal DK weight cotton with white edging.

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24/10/2017

Poppy Crochet Pattern

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Tutorial Tuesday Banner Crochet Poppy

Tutorial Tuesday Crochet Poppy

Tutorial Tuesday is here again and this time I would like to share my very own version of a crochet poppy.

What does the poppy mean to you? For me it symbolises hope and remembrance. Whether you wear a poppy as a sign of remembrance or simply to decorate your clothing, wear it with pride, knowing that this wonderful little flower is incredibly resilient, has such strength and beauty. 

Did you know?
​
"In the spring of 1915, shortly after losing a friend in Ypres, a Canadian doctor, Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae was inspired by the sight of poppies growing in battle-scarred fields to write a now famous poem called 'In Flanders Fields'. After the First World War, the poppy was adopted as a symbol of Remembrance.  The first ever 'Poppy Appeal' in 1921 raised over £106,000; a considerable amount of money at the time."

To find out more about the story of the poppy head over to the Royal British Legion website here.

This is a FREE crochet pattern and is written in UK terminology. It is a simple pattern and would be suited to an advanced beginner. If you have a spare half hour and fancy getting creative then this could be just the project - its a great stash buster too!

Materials

  • Any scrap DK weight yarn in red and green. ​(This pattern can be worked up in any yarn type and weight.)
  • Black button
  • ​Brooch back

​Equipment

  • 4mm crochet hook (Or suitable hook size for your yarn)
  • Darning needle
  • ​Scissors

Abbreviations (UK)

Ch: Chain
St(s): Stitch(s)
St: ​Space
Slst: Slip stitch
Rnd: Round
Rw: Row
Rep: Repeat
Dc: Double crochet
​Htr: Half treble crochet
Tr: Treble crochet
Dtr: Double treble crochet
Trtr: Triple treble crochet

Measurements

Approx. 7cm x 7cm

POPPY | Pattern Starts...

Rnd 1: Ch 2, work  5 dc into second ch from the hook. [5]
​Rnd 2: Work 2 dc into each st around, join with a slst. [10]
Rnd 3: Work [dc, htr, htr] into first stitch and then continue working into each stitch round as follows; [tr, dtr, dtr] [dtr, dtr, dtr] [dtr, dtr, tr] [htr, htr, dc] [tr, dtr, dtr] [trtr, trtr, trtr] [trtr, trtr, trtr] [trtr, trtr, trtr] [dtr, dtr, tr, slst] [30]
​Rnd 4: Dc in 15 st, slst into rw below, dc in nx 15 st, slst into rw below. [30] Fasten off and weave in ends.

LEAF

Ch 10, work the following down one side of the ch st.
​Rnd 1: Work sts into each ch sp across as follows; dc, dc, tr, tr, dtr, tr, tr, dc, dc.
Rnd 2: Rep rnd 1 down the opposite side of your ch rw. Fasten off .
Sew your leaf onto the back of your poppy, add your button and brooch back and voila!
​

...Pattern Ends.

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3/10/2017

Amigurumi Pumpkin Crochet Pattern

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Tutorial Tuesday Crochet Pumpkin

Tutorial Tuesday Crochet Pumpkin

I am super excited to introduce you to Tutorial Tuesday and this cute little crochet pumpkin pattern. This is the first in my series of FREE crochet patterns, isn't it fab! I absolutely can not wait to share more patterns, how-to's and tutorials with you over the next few months. I aim to publish a new crochet tutorial once a month, to begin with, with the intention to increase this to once a week sometime in the new year. (Don't hold me to that, life gets in the way of my plans often, so knowing me that will be more like the Summer! We'll see!)

This is a FREE amigurumi crochet pattern and is written in UK terminology. It is a simple pattern and would be suited to an advanced beginner. It would make a great first amigurumi project as you will crochet in the round, increase and decrease, as well as join components. ​

Materials

  • Orange and Green yarn ​(I used Stylecraft Special DK in Jaffa and Meadow)
  • Soft toy stuffing

Equipment

  • A crochet hook suitable for the yarn you are using (I used a 2.5mm crochet hook as I like my stitches to be tight when I'm crocheting amigurumi)
  • Darning needle
  • Scissors

Abbreviations (UK)

Rnd: Round
​Sp: Space

Rep: Repeat
Slst: Slip stitch
St: Stitch
​Ch: Chain

Dc: Double crochet
​Dc2tog: Double crochet two together

Measurements

Approx. | Height 6cm  | Diameter 9cm |

Hints & Tips: At the end of each round add a marker. I usually use a length of scrap yarn in a contrasting colour and weave it across my working round. ​

PUMPKIN | Pattern Starts...

Rnd 1: Ch 2, work 6 dc into second ch from the hook. [6]
Rnd 2: ​Work 2 dc into each st around. [12]
​Rnd 3: 2 dc into first st, dc into next st, *2 dc in next st, dc into next st, repeat from * around. [18]
​Rnd 4: 2 dc into first st, dc into next 2 sts, *2 dc in next st, dc into next 2 sts, rep from * around. [ 24]​
​Rnd 5: 2 dc into first st, dc into next 3 sts, *2 dc in next st, dc into next 3 sts, rep from * around. [ 30]​
​Rnd 6: 2 dc into first st, dc into next 4 sts, *2 dc in next st, dc into next 4 sts, rep from * around. [ 36]​
​Rnd 7: 2 dc into first st, dc into next 5 sts, *2 dc in next st, dc into next 5 sts, rep from * around. [ 42]​

​Rnd 8: 2 dc into first st, dc into next 6 sts, *2 dc in next st, dc into next 6 sts, rep from * around. [ 48]
​Rnd9: 2 dc into first st, dc into next 7 sts, *2 dc in next st, dc into next 7 sts, rep from * around. [54 ]
​Rnd 10: 2 dc into first st, dc into next 8 sts, *2 dc in next st, dc into next 8 sts, rep from * around. [ 60]
​

Sew up the middle then continue as follows:
​

Rnd 11-21: Dc into each st around. [60]

Add toy stuffing at this stage then continue crocheting as follows:

Rnd 22: *Dc2tog, dc in next 8 sts rep from * around. [54]
Rnd 23: *Dc2tog, dc in next 7 sts rep from * around. [48]
​Rnd 24: *Dc2tog, dc in next 6 sts rep from * around. [42]
​Rnd 25: *Dc2tog, dc in next 5 sts rep from * around. [36]​
​Rnd 26: *Dc2tog, dc in next 4 sts rep from * around. [30]​

Add more toy stuffing  at this stage and continually until the pumpkin is complete, working rounds as follows:
​
​Rnd 27: *Dc2tog, dc in next 3 sts rep from * around. [24]​
​Rnd 28: *Dc2tog, dc in next 2 sts rep from * around. [18]​

​Rnd 29: *Dc2tog, dc in next st rep from * around. [12]
​Rnd 30: *Dc2tog, rep from * around. [6]
​Rnd 31: *Dc2tog, rep from * around. Fasten off leaving a yarn tail about 35cm long.

To create the pumpkin shape work as follows:
Using a darning needle and the tail end of your orange yarn stitch through the centre of the pumpkin, wrap the yarn around the side and pull back through the centre. Give a gentle tug to make a slight indent. Repeat this five more times to create evenly spaced indents around the pumpkin.  If desired, you can go around again, working over the same yarn indents until you get the result you want.

​STEM

Using green work in continuous rounds as follows:
​Rnd 1: 
Ch 2, work 6 dc into second ch from the hook. [6]
Rnd 2-5: Dc into each st around. [6]
​Rnd 6: Work 2 dc into each st around. [12]
​Rnd 7: 2 dc into first st, dc into next st, *2 dc in next st, dc into next st, repeat from * around. [18]
Fasten off leaving a 
yarn tail about 20cm long. Sew onto top of pumpkin.​

...Pattern Ends


Why not super size your crochet pumpkin!

Fancy making a huge crochet pumpkin? Double each stage to double the size of your pumpkin. Similarly if you want to make a mini pumpkin, simply decrease the amount of each section. Using different yarn weights and types will also give you varying sized pumpkins, so have a play and create a cute array of pumpkins ready for your Halloween celebrations. Don't forget to tag me in your pictures on social media so I can check out your fabulous makes, use hashtag  #apriltowriesspatterns.  Happy crocheting folks!

​Ax

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