Batik Swirl Wrap (and a little giveaway)

It's the newest member of the Stylecraft Batik family

and it's perfect for lazy crafters like me who cannot bear sewing in  ALLLLLLL the ends.

Batik Whirl is a yarn-cake of loveliness.

Stylecraft's Batik Yarn has been around for a little while now and I'm a really big fan, I have to say. I recently designed a shawl for Inside Crochet Magazine using the Batik solids range and I enjoyed working with it - the yarn has a nice bounce to it and the stitch definition is great.

The next release was the Batik Elements range. A collection with a different range of shades within a ball, designed to work alongside the Solids. Again, the same quality yarn with the same feel and effect. With this, I designed my Learn to Knit Shawl.

And now there's the Swirl.... it's a big, 200g cake with up to five different colours, which are repeated and at the mo, there are six different colour ways. I chose Purple Mist - a collection of greys and purples and different to any of my other shawls, scarves or wraps.

So I thought I'd make a rectangular sort-of half-blanket that you can wear as a wrap or a scarf. 

(Because let's face it,  I've hardly got any ...)

I designed this to be easy (cos I don't do difficult) but also to be the kind of project you can sit and make in the evenings, whilst watching your favourite thing on the telly-box.







I made mine with two swirls (400g), but you could make a narrower version with just one - instructions are given for both.

You will need:

2 x Batik swirl for wider wrap like mine or 1 x if making a narrower version. - I used Purple Mist (shade 3730)
or around 400g / 1100m (200m / 550m for narrower version) of dk yarn

4.5mm hook

Finished size approx: 47cm x 150 cm (wide version) 22cm x 150 cm (narrow version)

Gauge: approximately 16.5 stitches and 9 rows to 10cm

Chart showing rows 6 - 9:

UK Pattern

Abbreviations:

Stitch(es) st(s)

Chain ch

Treble Crochet tr.

ch 79 (wide version) or 40 (narrower version)

Row 1: beginning in 4th ch from hook, make 1tr in each st across, turn.

Rows 2 - 6: 3ch (counts as tr here and throughout), beginning in 5th ch from hook, 1tr in each st across, turn.

Row 7: 3ch, 3tr in 6th st from hook, sk 2 sts, *3tr in next st, sk 2 sts; repeat from * until 2 sts left, sk 1 st, 1tr in last st, turn.

Row 8: 3ch, 1tr in space before first treble cluster, 3tr in each space between clusters, 1tr in space after last cluster, 1tr in last st.

Row 9: 3ch, 3tr in each space between clusters, 1tr in last st.

Rows 10 - 135: (approx): repeat rows 8 and 9 alternately.

Rows 136 - 140: repeat rows 2 - 6.

Fasten off, weave in ends.

US Pattern

Abbreviations:

Stitch(es) st(s)

Chain ch

Double Crochet dc

ch 79 (wide version) or 40 (narrower version)

Row 1: beginning in 4th ch from hook, make 1dc in each st across, turn.

Rows 2 - 6: 3ch (counts as dc here and throughout), beginning in 5th ch from hook, 1dc in each st across, turn.

Row 7: 3ch, 3dc in 6th st from hook, sk 2 sts, *3dc in next st, sk 2 sts; repeat from *, until 2 sts left, sk 1 st, 1dc in last st, turn.

Row 8: 3ch, 1dc in space before first treble cluster, 3dc in each space between clusters, 1dc in space after last cluster, 1dc in last st.

Row 9: 3ch, 3dc in each space between clusters, 1dc in last st.

Rows 10 - 135: (approx): repeat rows 8 and 9 alternately.

Rows 136 - 140: repeat rows 2 - 6.

Fasten off, weave in ends.

I just love this wrap! It's very soft and with the added wool content, it's really warm, too. Perfect as a chunky scarf to keep out the chills when I'm out and about, or as a wrap-blanket (a wraplet?) to snuggle up with on those draughty evenings on the sofa.
Perfect.

If you'd like to win a cake of the very lovely Batik Swirl in Purple Mist, then simply enter the giveaway below:

a Rafflecopter giveaway


I'll draw it on Thursday 25th Jan 2018. Open worldwide.

Hope you like the pattern and good luck in the giveaway!

Sarah xxx

The Big Crochet Stayaway

Imagine a weekend spent in a beautiful converted barn in the middle of the stunning Herfordshire countryside...

Imagine a big Christmas tree, a roaring fire and a sprinkling of snow...

Pretty idyllic, huh?

Now add to that endless crochet, crafty workshops galore, enough yarn to sink a ship, a thoroughly knowledgeable and convivial host and you're getting pretty close to something I'd call Heaven. 

And I haven't even mentioned the amazing food, luxurious bedrooms or the blimmin' good company of terrific like-minded gals I shared it with.

THIS, people is the Big Crochet Stayaway.

A few months ago, I met the lovely Louisa of Komodo Krafts at the Knitting and Stitching Show at Ally Pally. You can imagine my utter delight when she kindly asked if I'd like to be a guest at the December weekend. Well, I nearly bit her hand off with my enthusiasm. A weekend away? Without the kids? With ALL the crochet? I could not say no.

The Big Crochet Stayaway is the brain-child of Louisa. She lives in Hertfordshire with her partner and decided to switch her corporate career for something more crafty after the birth of her daughter. Within a short time, she began to run workshops and sell yarn and so Komodo Krafts was launched. As for the retreats, Louisa says that she fell in love with the idea of spending weekends with like-minded crafters and as there wasn't anything in her local area, decided to set up her own.

Now, for those of you who are a bit nervous about spending the entire weekend with a bunch of people you've never met before, you needn't worry. Louisa made lots of contact with us all beforehand, sending us a very full programme of events for the weekend and even set up a Facebook group so that we could chat to each other before meeting. 

And so, on the Friday evening, we all arrived at the barn for welcome drinks - and I have to say, the accommodation is absolutely spectacular. The barn is situated on a working farm and used to house the pigs! Thankfully, the only remaining porcine features are those in pictures on the walls. The living area is huge, with underfloor heating and plenty of comfy sofas and on the other side of the enormous fireplace, a large table for eating and working at. To the side of this are the huge kitchen, where our brilliant cook worked her magic and the large bedrooms, each with ensuite facilities. 

Once we'd all made our introductions and were settled with a beverage of our choice, Louisa showed  us the weekend crochet project: her beautiful Holly and Ivy table runner. 

This project was designed to suit all abilities and Louisa, an experienced crocheter who was taught by her nan when she was little, was on hand to provide support and advice on all manner of crochet queries throughout the weekend.

After a fab dinner, it was time for our first workshop - Spinning with Caz from Wulla. 

Caz is one of the Komodo Krafts team and is an indie spinner and dyer of big yarns with attitude. Now, I've never done anything like this before, so was totally enthralled by the whole thing. 

Caz is an amazing tutor and showed us how to spin using a drop spindle and then on her spinning wheel, which we were then invited to try. And if that wasn't enough, we we each given a goody bag with fleeces and our very own drop spindle. 

Saturday was a bright and beautiful morning and once a delicious breakfast had been consumed by all, we were joined by a day guest, who was immediately made to feel welcome and it was time for our first crochet workshop of the day and: another of Louisa's fab patterns -her Slouchy Sprig Hat.

Louisa's crochet designs suited the weekend perfectly - easy enough for a beginner to pick up, especially with all the support on hand, but challenging enough for even the most seasoned of crocheters. Louisa strives to design things that have modern edge to them,  'I spent most of my life being called "Granny" because I crocheted, so I think it's important that our generation of crocheters is standing up and saying ... actually we make really cool stuff!' 

The next workshop was embroidery, taught by Ellen from The Sewing Alchemist, who arrived with the biggest, most colourful selection of threads I've ever seen, along with lots of examples of her beautiful and quirky pieces. 

We were shown how to attach the fabric to the hoops and how to make the stitches over the template for our 'Merry and Bright' Christmas stitching. Embroidery is another craft I've never really tackled, but this was so enjoyable and very, very relaxing.

And after this, there were even more crochet projects on offer to anyone who wanted to try - Light-up Neon snowflake, anyone? 

This is such a fun project (free pattern here) which we made in Bobbiny Cord and threaded through neon lights, which made them absolutely amazing.

Now, what to say about Sunday? Well, we woke up to this:

Yep. About a foot of snow. 

Completely magical of course, especially for a Christmas workshop...

But this did pose some problems... it meant that our rag-rugging workshop had to be cancelled as the tutor couldn't actually get to us. Not that we were worried - we had Gingerbread Christmas Baubles to crochet (free pattern here) tea to drink and good company to enjoy (and enough yarn to crochet ourselves warm jumpers, if needed). 

But sadly, the weekend had to end. And so after lunch, and a little earlier than anticipated due to the weather, we packed our cars with all the lovely yarny things, said our fond farewells and made our way through the snowy landscapes back to our homes.

I have to admit, it was one of the most enjoyable, relaxing, fun weekends away I think I've ever been to. I felt thoroughly spoiled with the great variety of workshops, the generous goody bags (including hand-made stockings filled with brilliant presents) and the really fabulous company I spent it with. Louisa is a wonderful host who made sure that everyone was happy and her enthusiasm for crafting and crochet is infectious.

'I love watching people become friends, I love learning about different people. I also love a weekend away from my own home! I really enjoy everything about it; planning the agenda, speaking to guest workshop runners, sourcing items from small businesses. I strive to support other small businesses with my own and the retreat gives me so many opportunities to do that.'

If you're interested in attending a retreat with Komodo Krafts (and I thoroughly recommend it), or attending a day workshop or organising some private tuition with Louisa, then check out here for details of all events.

I hope you enjoy some crafty R&R

Sarah xxx

Supersize your wreath

Honestly, this is one of THE speediest and easiest crochet projects I have ever made and perfect for a beginner, too.

It has been one of those projects I've wanted to make for ages, since I do love a bit of giant-yarn-action. And there's been plenty of inspiration online, so I am totally not claiming any points for originality here (check out Pony McTate's gorgeous wreaths on Instagram here)

If you fancy having a go, then you need a wreath frame (36cm / 14inch), and around 250g of giant yarn*. If you've got a 40mm hook hanging around, then use it, if not, try a smaller hook, or you can use your fingers.

And then, dear friends, you simply make UK double crochet stitches (US sc) around the edge of the frame until you're back to the beginning. 

It will take you under 10 minutes, I kid you not.

* I used a Wreath kit from Woolly Mahoosive available here which contains enough materials to make two wreaths) 

Fancy a step-by-step? Then check out my tutorial below, which shows you how to make it with and without a hook.

  
Happy hooking, crochet pals
Sarah xx

Textured coasters

It all started with the yarn bargain of the century...

Let me take you back to late September, when I'd been invited to Yarndale for the weekend by my pal and Supersize Crochet supplier, Andrea from Woolly Mahoosive. We had the most totally fab time,  I met the most wonderful people and I'm so pleased to say, many new friends, too.

Now, those of you who have been to a yarny festival before will know a bit about what to expect - lots and lots of different companies, both big and small, selling all their different wares - yarn in every colour imaginable, tools, patterns, baskets, accessories and just about everything in between.

I love it all.
Especially the yarn *sigh*
But, I already have lots of beautiful hand-dyed skeins (with soooooo many projects in mind,) so these days, I'm on the look-out for something a bit different.
And I struck gold this time:
These little balls of 100% wool at 50p each in the MOST gorgeously perfect autumnal colours!

Now, they're not the sort of yarn you'd want to wear - they're the sort of yarn you'd use to make hard-wearing, rugged homewares, so I decided (to start with) I'd make some sweet little coasters.

(As a person with two small-ish children and one excitable dog, I find yarn coasters to be the most brilliant thing, 'cos they don't break when they are inevitably knocked off the coffee table)

Anyhoos, here's the pattern. They're worked in the round, but with a few turns in direction to create the most lovely texture:

You'll need a small amount of any yarn you like with a hook to match - these will work in everything from double knit, worsted and aran weights to chunky.

UK pattern first, US below:

Textured Coasters UK pattern

Stitches to know:
sl st  - slip stitch
ch - chain
ch-sp - chain space
dc - double crochet
tr - treble crochet
FLO - front loops only
BLO - back loops only

To make the 2-bobble stitch, work two trebles in the indicated stitch, leaving the last part of each treble unworked. (Three loops on hook). Yoh, draw through all three loops.

 

To make the 3-bobble stitch, work three trebles in the indicated stitch, leaving the last part of each treble unworked. (Four loops on hook). Yoh, draw through all four loops.


Rnd 1: 3ch (counts as tr), 11tr in magic ring or 5ch (counts as 2ch + tr), 11tr in 4th ch from hook, sl st to 3rd ch to join rnd, turn.

Rnd 2: 3ch, 2-bobble in same st as 3ch, 1ch, *3-bobble, 1ch around; repeat from * to end, sl st to FLO of 1st tr of 2-bobble, turn.

Rnd 3: 3ch, 2tr in same st  BLO, 1tr in 1ch-sp, *3tr in next st BLO, 1tr in 1ch-sp; repeat from * to end, sl st to 3rd ch to join rnd.

Rnd 4: 1ch, 1dc BLO in each st to end.
Fasten off and weave in ends.

Textured Coasters US pattern

Stitches to know:
sl st  - slip stitch
ch - chain
ch-sp - chain space
sc - single crochet
dc - double crochet
FLO - front loops only
BLO - back loops only

To make the 2-bobble stitch, work two double crochets in the indicated stitch, leaving the last part of each dc unworked. (Three loops on hook). Yoh, draw through all three loops.

 
To make the 3-bobble stitch, work three double crochets in the indicated stitch, leaving the last part of each dc unworked. (Four loops on hook). Yoh, draw through all four loops.


Rnd 1: 3ch (counts as dc), 11dc in magic ring or 5ch (counts as 2ch + dc), 11dc in 4th ch from hook, sl st to 3rd ch to join rnd, turn.

Rnd 2: 2ch, 2-bobble in same st as 3ch, 1ch, *3-bobble, 1ch around; repeat from * to end, sl st to FLO of 1st tr of 2-bobble, turn.

Rnd 3: 3ch, 2dc in same st  BLO, 1dc in 1ch-sp, *3dc in next st BLO, 1dc in 1ch-sp; repeat from * to end, sl st to 3rd ch to join rnd.

Rnd 4: 1ch, 1sc BLO in each st to end.
Fasten off and weave in ends.

And that's all there is to it!

Happy crocheting,
Sarah xx

Home Decoration in Crochet - a book review

It seems to be book review season here at the moment

And I'm not complaining, I'm really not - this particular one is a corker!

It's written by Tanya Eberhardt, a fellow crochet designer, who I've known for ages through her blog, Little Things Blogged and her Instagram account, Ltblogged.

It's a book packed to the brim with 25 colourful designs to brighten your home - everything you could imagine, from beautiful blankets to these adorable jar cosies *adds to ever-growing future projects list*

This is another of the projects which caught my eye - a vintage-inspired cushion cover.

And this stool cover is such a fun make, too.

But I've always been a storage girl at heart and I loved the simplicity and stitch definition of these sweet little baskets.

I had some cute little balls of yarn I'd picked up at Yarndale (for a bargainous 50p each) and thought they'd be the perfect match.

And they are!
The pattern was well written and very easy to follow and it even had a chart, too. I love the way this has turned out and am planning to make the other two sizes, too.

(I've just realised that I actually did not complete as many rows as Tanya's pattern states - that's what I get for crocheting late at night!) but I'm still just as pleased. I might make the taller version next.

 

I've really enjoying looking through Tanya's book - there are projects in here to suit everyone, from a complete newbie to an experienced pro and there's even a tunisian crochet project included. 

The patterns are written in US terms throughout and all have them feature a chart. At the back of the book there is a brief section containing descriptions of the stitches and techniques you'll need to know.

If you'd like to purchase Home Decoration In Crochet by Tanya Eberhardt, then it's available here.

Enjoy!

Sarah

Disclaimer: I was provided a copy of Home Decoration in Crochet for free. However, the opinions I’ve posted are my own.

Season of Gold: A cowl pattern

I absolutley do not need any more scarves, cowls or wraps.

I have loads, I really do.

But when I found this GORGEOUS yarn in a local yarn shop, I fell in love and knew I wanted to wear it around my neck. 
  

You see, it's baby llama and it truly is the most beautifully soft yarn I have ever squidged in my entire life. 

And it's the most perfect Autumnal gold colour, too.

AND it was on sale....

...So I grabbed the last three skeins and ran out of the shop (after paying, obvs), laughing with glee.

I knew exactly what I wanted and found my crochet hook.

And I'm not taking it off.
Ever.

If you'd like to make one (to add to your 'I-do-not-need-any-more-scarves pile'), then here's the pattern (UK first, US below). 

You can use any yarn in any weight with any hook - just make sure you go up a hook size or two to create a lovely, soft drape; simply adjust the foundation chain to suit, making sure it's an even number and you're good to go ...

Enjoy!

Sarah xx

I used:

3 x 50g / 100m balls of Mirasol Llama Una in Mustard (shade 8204)

5mm hook.

Yarn alternative:

Any dk or aran yarn and hook to match

UK Pattern

ch 88, sl st into 1^st ch to join round.

Row 1: 1ch (doesn’t count as a stitch here and throughout), (1htr, 1tr) in next st, sk 1 st, *(1dc, 1tr) in next st, sk 1 st; repeat from * around, 1dc in last st. Sl st into 1ch to join round, turn.

Row 2: 1ch, (1htr , 1tr ) in 3^rd st from hook,  sk 1 st, *(1dc, 1tr) in next st, sk 1 st; repeat from*, 1dc in last st. Sl st into 1ch to join round, turn.

Rows 3 – until yarn runs out: Repeat row 2

Fasten off and weave in ends.

US Pattern

ch 88, sl st into 1^st ch to join round.

Row 1: 1ch (doesn’t count as a stitch here and throughout), (1hdc, 1dc) in next st, sk 1 st, *(1sc, 1dc) in next st, sk 1 st; repeat from * around, 1sc in last st. Sl st into 1ch to join round, turn.

Row 2: 1ch, (1hdc, 1dc ) in 3^rd st from hook,  sk 1 st, *(1sc, 1dc) in next st, sk 1 st; repeat from*, 1sc in last st. Sl st into 1ch to join round, turn.

Rows 3 – until yarn runs out: Repeat row 2

Fasten off and weave in ends.

*******

An Autumn giveaway *NOW CLOSED*

***Congratulations to Rebecca Lee***

Autumn is here.

And what could be more fitting at this time of year than this leafy yarn bowl?

Isn't it a beauty?
The lovely people at KnitPro kindly sent me one to try and I must admit, I totally adore it.

It's beautifully handcrafted in wood and is the pefect size for holding a fairly large ball of yarn.
Why use a yarn bowl, you wonder? Well, I find that it helps keep an even tension and (more importantly for me) it prevents the yarn from disappearing under the sofa, or being taken off by the cat / dog / children whilst I work.

It's even got a handy little stopper to stop the yarn escaping.

I was also sent a cute little stitchmarker pouch, which now means I can keep them in one place.
(No more scrabbling around in the bottom of project bags for me!)

AND, I'm so pleased to announce that KnitPro have given me an extra yarn bowl and pouch to giveaway - hooray!

The giveaway is open worldwide and will run until midnight on 3rd October. A winner will be drawn at random and contacted by email on 4th October.

If you'd like to enter, then click below to enter.

a Rafflecopter giveaway


Good luck!!
Sarah xx