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Time for tea CUTE BEEHIVE COSY
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Hook it INSIDE! BABY HOODIE, CHUNKY SOCKS, MOTIF CUSHION & MORE
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Syd the seal is covered in fluffy white fur as he is just a pup. He’s waiting for his waterproof fur to grow so he can plunge into the icy sea and learn to fish for himself. There’s going to be some tough moments but he knows good times are coming.
Crochet
Make a splash with me on p30! ISSUE ONE HUNDRED & SIX
CONTENTS
40 St I e Sc R Te T r Ac E S o I P14
EXCITING CROCHET IDEAS TO INSPIRE YOU 14 WINTER ACCESSORIES 26 COSY COATIGAN 30 SEAL AMIGURUMI 34 EASY SLIPPERS 40 STRIPED SCARF 45 EMBELLISH A T SHIRT 47 RIBBED SKIRT 51 LOOP STITCH CUSHION
Cover
star!
51
56 CHEVRON BAG 59 BRIGHT GARLAND 61 BOHO BLANKET 67 LACY SHAWL 70 BEEHIVE TEA COSY 73 KIDS' HOODIE 77 FLORAL CUSHION
0 t a Co y
67
61
56
47
GOOD READS
HOW TO…
09 HOOKED 38 JOURNAL: SANDRA GUTIERREZ 54 PROFILE: KRISTEN TENDYKE 64 YARN LIFE ONLINE 82 SHOW US YOURS! 98 HOOKY TREASURE
36 SUBSCRIBE
34
Never miss an issue! 80 CROCHET UNRAVELLED How to weave in ends 84 YARN REVIEWS The deal with chenille 89 THE GUIDE Essential step-by-steps for you
3kd 'h o E
Y n Re I w P84
77
New year, we’re here January has arrived and I don’t think I’ve ever been so excited to see it! 2021 may involve some unknowns, but your favourite crochet magazine is always here, brimming with projects to see you through. With plenty of fresh air a perfect recipe for positivity, we bring you a collection on page 14 full of outdoor wardrobe ideas to keep you cosy and stylish. There’s also the super coatigan on page 26 – a rewarding make to wear right through into spring. Homebodies can find fantastic boho-inspired projects for a perfect pad (pages 51 and 61). Don’t forget to share your makes on Instagram tagged #sctreblemaker, or on our Facebook group Simply Crochet SCtreblemakers, as we love to see them!
Editor Sara Huntington Art Editors Kimberly Price, Claire Watkins, Jude Curle Production Editor Sarah Newman Technical Assistant Paula Green Digital Editor Matthew Spiers Cover Photography Phil Sowels Photography Philip Sowels, Dave Caudery
N d t g i To C ? EDITORIAL TEAM simplycrochet@immediate.co.uk SUBSCRIPTIONS TEAM www.buysubscriptions.com/contactus 03330 162 146
Ad E Ti I G Call 0117 300 8206 Senior Advertising Manager Penny Stokes Business Development Manager UK and International Rachael Hawkins
Co T Ib T r
Ma K T g & Su S Ri T o Senior Direct Marketing Executive Kate Jones
Meet our happy band of hooksters this issue
Ci C La I Head of Newstrade Marketing Martin Hoskins Newstrade Marketing Manager Janine Smith International Account Manager Richard Jefferies
Pr D Ct O Production Co-ordinator Lizzie Ayre Production Manager Emma McGuinness / Siân Rodgers Production Director Sarah Powell
Bu I T m Paul Torre, Karen Flannigan
“I love the possibilities amigurumi offers by knowi ng just a handful of stitch es”
““II fifind i nd crochet h et “Be brave andcroch experiment. very therapeutic” Frogging is not failing”
Li E S g Director of International Licensing & Syndication Tim Hudson
Pu L Sh N ERINNA LEE
JESS BENNETT
Scientist by day and amigurumi pattern designer by night, Erinna loves creating supercute kawaii characters that’ll make you say ‘awww’. See her Syd the seal on page 30.
Jess loves to design and make crochet garments for children. Her aim is to create clothes that are modern, practical and fun. Check out her kids’ hoodie on page 73.
Managing Director, Craft Kerry Lawrence Managing Director, Bristol Andy Marshall Chief Executive Officer Tom Bureau
Su S Ri T o Call 03330 165 408 For any queries, visit www.buysubscriptions.com/contactus Order today at www.buysubscriptions.com
N t Is U o S e Th R 1 Fe R a 2O 1 No gift included? Ask your newsagent. Covergift may be unavailable overseas.
“Never hesitate to try new techniques; you can do it!”
“Croch eting is thera py; it calms you, and lovely things get create d along the way” CAROL IBBETSON
PIA THADANI
Carol is a tech editor and designer who loves giving workshops. She is obsessed by colourwork and loves designing bags with a vintage vibe. Find her chevron bag on page 56.
Pia’s life-long love of crochet has evolved into a passion for designing. She uses a variety of techniques and likes finding new ways with simple stitches. See her ribbed skirt on page 47.
S hop local All toys made available for sale in the UK must meet a list of essential safety requirements which are set out in the Toy (Safety) Regulations 2011. To prove that these requirements are met, all toys should carry a CE Mark, which is a declaration by the manufacturer that a toy is safe. In order to use the CE mark on creations you plan to sell (whether you’re selling them yourself or sending to a charity to be sold), you must check that your products meet the requirements under the Regulations. If you’re using one of our patterns to make items that will appeal to children under the age of 14, please ensure you take all the necessary steps to comply with the legislation. But don’t panic, you just need to do your research. For more information, see gov.uk/ce-marking, or visit shop.conformance.co.uk to find out about self-certification packs.
OTHER CONTRIBUTORS Natalie Beard, Hannah Cross, Elisabeth Davis de Herraiz, Millie Dean, Kate Eastwood, Jenny May Forsyth, Claire Goodale, Sandra Gutierrez, Yoko Hatta, Emma Leith, Fran Morgan, Becca Parker, Marianne Rawlins, Becky Skuse, Kristen TenDyke, Cassie Ward
Immediate Media Company Bristol Limited (company number 05715415) is registered in England and Wales. The registered office of Immediate Media Company Bristol Limited is at Vineyard House, 44 Brook Green, London W6 7BT. All information contained in this magazine is for information only and is, as far as we are aware, correct at the time of going to press. Immediate Media Company Bristol Limited cannot accept any responsibility for errors or inaccuracies in such information. Readers are advised to contact manufacturers and retailers directly with regard to the price of products/services referred to in this magazine. If you submit unsolicited material to us, you automatically grant Immediate Media Company Bristol Limited a licence to publish your submission in whole or in part in all editions of the magazine, including licensed editions worldwide and in any physical or digital format throughout the world. Any material you submit is sent at your risk. Although every care is taken, neither Immediate Media Company Bristol Limited nor its employees agents or subcontractors shall be liable for loss or damage.
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50 Colours | 100% Acrylic Aran Weight | No Dye Lots NOW AVAILABLE FROM WOOL WAREHOUSE | THE RANGE | READICUT MAKERS SUPERSTORE | OH SEW CRAFTY
Inspiration
Accessories
Websites
Events
Stuff
© Rita Carmo for Atelier Joana Vasconcelos
Ideas
Flower Power Ballad Guitars have played a part in countless songs with catchy hooks – but this Fender Stratocaster has been wrapped by one! Flower Power was created by Joana Vasconcelos, a contemporary visual artist with a 25-year career whose work, which often includes crochet, incorporates everyday objects with irony and humour. www.joanavasconcelos.com
WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET 9
SUN DAYS W Looking for a
change makers Love Crafts have teamed up with Black Makers Matter to bring crafters a collection of projects that celebrate 12 of modern history’s most inspirational movers and shakers, through the Black Change Makers collection. For hooksters there is the amigurumi Oprah Winfrey by Yolonda Jordan and Michelle Obama by Whitney Marie Anderson. Crocheting a little Oprah or Michelle doll may be one of the most powerful projects you crochet all year, and all the patterns are just one pound to make them accessible for all. Find the patterns at www.lovecrafts.com/engb/c/article/black-change-makers
New release
B i g, b o l d a n d k o o h o t y d a e r Adding to their popular budget Pato range, Cygnet have introduced their new fabulous Pato Chunky. With its soft handle and economical value this 100% acrylic makes for the perfect budget bulky yarn. Ideal for charity makes (see the Roses Against Violence project story on page 12), big crochet patterns such as children’s blankets, which require regular washing, amigurumi toys and everyday economical hooking. With a selection of 15 colourful, neutral and pastel shades to choose from there is a shade for every project. What’s next on your crochet to-do list? Find your nearest stockist at www.cygnetyarns.com
10 WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET
blanket project to kick off 2021? Lucy of Attic24 has created the colourful Aria Blanket which might fit the bill. Inspired by the days of early summer (we can’t wait for those) this is sure to perk up your hook. To make it easy for you there are yarn packs available that include the 15 shades of Stylecraft Special DK needed to make the blanket, along with a detailed printed pattern. There is also a full photo tutorial on Lucy’s blog. To find the exclusive yarn pack visit www.wool warehouse.co.uk
HOOK AN HEIRLOOM Scheepjes Legacy is a collection of traditional cotton thread yarns for projects to pass down from generation to generation. Items such as tablecloths and christening gowns that are given to loved ones to be held, worn, and cherished for many more years to come. With this natural cotton thread in the same neutral shades our grandmothers would crochet with, handmade items evoke a sweet nostalgia. The Legacy range has a density and twist greater than a standard cotton yarn, so it has been created to defy the test of time. Locate your nearest stockist at www.scheepjes.com/en
HOOKED
INSPIRING BOOKS MINI AMIGURUMI ANIMALS
“The possibilities of the
Mini profile
hook are endless”
NADEJDA KHEGAY I learned to crochet as a child; my grandmother taught me how to knit and crochet. When I was in school I knitted socks and gloves, and crocheted lace napkins. I even crocheted my own clothes, such as jumpers and tops. And when I was preparing for the birth of my eldest daughter 13 years ago, I began to get seriously involved in knitting and crocheting children’s clothes. Since then, I have never returned to work in an office and have devoted my working life to crocheting. Yes, I can knit, but I like to crochet much more. It seems to me that the possibilities of the hook are endless, as you can crochet anything you want! Inspiration is everywhere around us. You just need to open your eyes and look around. There are many amazing things we see daily that can inspire us. Now the main direction of my work is crocheted food. I like delicious food, but I don’t really like cooking. And I am especially bad at baking desserts. But with a hook and yarn I can easily crochet any cake there is! I love and am proud of each of my projects. Every time I think: “Oh my, I’m a genius! How
Ex L Si E f Su S Ri E S!
SARAH ABBONDIO (£6.99, Search Press) Prepare to adore these wonderful little creatures! There are 26 cute animals, such as a dog, cat, camel, monkey and rabbit, that can be crocheted with small amounts of yarn in your stash – all you need is a crochet hook and some yarn. The animals can be used to hang on keyrings, baby buggies, bag pendants, as little toy figures for a doll’s house; there are so many options!
TWO BY TWO CROCHET
could I create such a thing?” (This is a joke, of course!) And every time I think that it is impossible to come up with something more interesting, I somehow manage to do it. I rarely make ready-made toys now, and most of the crochet I do is to create patterns, so that my followers can also make the wonderfully yummy toys for themselves. The crochet projects that my followers make from using my patterns are also the inspiration I need to come up with new and exciting projects for just for them. For more on Nadejda follow her on Instagram at @pinky_pinky_blue
SUBS STARS! Every month, three subscribers win a prize as thank you for their loyalty to Simply Crochet. This month, the winners (below) will each receive this Lily Sugar’n Cream yarn pack, including a ‘Let’s Dish’ pattern book, worth £39.99. Enjoy! Check next month to see if you’re a winner!
Karen Kennan,Scottish Borders Jennifer Templar, Norfolk Silvia Insley, Pembrokeshire Immediate Media Company, publishers of Simply Crochet, Subs Stars giveaway Terms and Conditions. Prizes were dispatched before the on sale date of this issue. There are no cash alternatives. Three winning entries will be chosen at random from all current subscribers. The draw is final and no correspondence will be entered into.
BENDY CARTER (£8.99, Annie’s) Learn to create two-colour designs using a two-row repeat, by an established crochet designer and author. Discover crochet where two colours of yarn are crocheted into textured stitches using only a two-row or round repeat. The book includes instructions for eight projects including blankets, winter garments and a ruana, a poncho-style garment.
TINY TOYS TO CROCHET SACHIYO ISHII (£4.99, Search Press) Create a little world for the young or young-at-heart in your life with these fun amigurumi-style toys. Suitable for all skill levels, the easy patterns create 10cm (4in) tall toys that are made with just a 3mm crochet hook, so ideal for on-thego crocheting. There’s 20 toys in total, so which will you make first: the helicopter or cupcake? Baby hippo or aeroplane? They are so quick you can make them all!
CRAFT YOUR OWN HAPPY BECCI MAI FORD (£14.99, White Owl) A collection of mindful craft projects to make you smile. Perfect for when you need a bit of self-care and relaxation time. Unlike other craft books, this is one that you can dip into and find projects based upon how you are feeling – you can choose a craft to suit your mood. WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET 11
ECO ENERGY W King Cole ended
reverie with Yarn
2020 with big eco news – their head office and warehouse in Skipton, North Yorkshire are now entirely self-sufficient on energy from new solar panels that produce enough electricity to run both premises. Any excess electricity they create will be stored in batteries for future use. For more eco credentials, don’t forget their 100% recycled yarn Forest Aran, made from PET bottles, old jumpers and spinning waste. Head to www. kingcole.com for your nearest stockist.
Let your mind wander while you create something special. Daydreamer is a babysoft yarn made of cotton and soya fibres, and along with the pastel shades it is perfect for creating soothing colour combinations in children’s and adult garments. Available in five coordinated colours, we can picture comfy cardigans and cowls on our hooks. Find your daydream at www.stitchandstory.com
Great cause
Ro E W h VoC Roses against violence are a guerrilla crochet art project founded in Austria in 2018 with the purpose of raising awareness for the issue of violence against women. Contributors are using a traditionally feminine handcraft to spread the message, by crocheting purple roses and placing them visibly in public spaces. The project is open for everybody to join; in fact it is gaining popularity and is now on all five continents. All you need to do is hook a purple rose (either follow the video on their Facebook page, Roses against violence, or create your own design), put it in a prominent place, take pictures and share them Instagram or Facebook, tagging the photo with the #rosesagainstviolence hashtag. Include the Stop Violence Against Women logo with your make, to spread the word amongst the public of what the purple rose stands for.
Shop of the month
Wool Bath Each issue we explore a UK yarn shop
CREATE WAVES IN YOUR WORLD Whether you’re looking to liven up your bedroom colour scheme or cosy up on the sofa, Sirdar’s Crochet Wave blanket and bolster cushion will work wonders, while the ripple pattern adds a retro Missoni twist. Sirdar have used Jewelspun, a yarn that gives the handspun look in a practical, easy-care acrylic, so just right for homewares such as these. Find your nearest stockist at www.sirdar.com and catch some waves. 12 WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET
Who’s in charge? Laura Shipley, supported by her mum Janice, and Becki, Catherine, Caroline, Jane and Lotus Where can we find you? In the centre of beautiful Bath What is your shop like? It’s full of colour and texture and super welcoming. We encourage you to squish! What do you stock? Some of the biggest yarn brands. We are a Rowan flagship store as well as a stockist of small indie dyers such as Dyebath and HeyJay yarns. Our British Yarn wall is a big draw for all the visitors we had [pre-lockdown] from overseas too. What are you offering during lockdown? We have a new online shop – it’s a small and carefully curated collection of our tried and tested shop favourites. We welcome you to contact us for advice. 19 Old Orchard Street, Bath BA1 1JU Telephone 01225 469144 Visit woolbath.co.uk and find them on Instagram at @woolbath
S hop local
HOOKED
5 FAB FINDS Slippers
BIRTHDAY HOOKSTER This wonderful cake was made for new but keen crocheter Cath Rolls’ 18th birthday. Cath only started crocheting during the first lockdown as she was feeling low and needed something to do. She says, “I struggle with concentrating as I have ADHD, but can focus on crafts. I wanted to make my own clothes to be more eco and have my own original pieces.” She even managed to set up a business in the summer selling crop tops! Tracey of Sweet Tracey Cakes took 12 hours to make Cath’s cake, using fondant icing, a stitch mould (from Karen Davies Sugarcraft) and modelling chocolate. Find these crafty women on Instagram at @crochettispaghetti and @sweet.tracey.cakes
Tu e In o It h s! Listen to Sara Huntington, editor of Simply Crochet, as she discusses all things hooky on the Making Stitches Podcast. Created by Lindsay from Postcard from Gibraltar, each episode focuses on the story of a maker, what they do, how their craft has developed and lots more besides. Lindsay has dabbled in all fibre arts but her favourite is crochet. Guests so far include Eleonora Tully from Coastal Crochet, Amanda Bloom from the Little Box of Crochet and Kerry Lord from Toft. Listen to Making Stitches from 8 January via Apple and Google Podcasts, Spotify and rather appropriately, Stitcher.
Give hardworking feet a much-need treat
1
FAUX FUR FOOTWORK Looking to make the ultimate cosy slipper for cold days and chilly nights? Something from TheCozyKnotCrochet should do it! Find this Ugg-style boot pattern on her Etsy shop for £5.15. No more cold ankles!
2
SNEAKY SOLES These trainer-style slippers may get the thumbs up from those who don’t like traditional designs. Get the intermediate level pattern from ShowroomCrochet’s Etsy shop for £5.75.
Crochet community
Skills & virtual events Learn different joining techniques with Anna Nikipirowicz’s helpful video tutorial www.bit.ly/JoiningTech JAN Granny square online course www.themercerie.co.uk/homage-to-thegranny-square-online
STRIPY STUNNERS Put your best foot forward in a bold and beautiful Tunisian crochet design. Find the Leslie Tunisian slippers pattern for £2.44 at www. hellopretty.co.za
4
DAINTY FEET If delicate shoes are your thing, or you’re looking for summer slippers, these T-strap ballet flats should suit you to a T. Lisa van Klaveren’s Ravelry store has the pattern for £4.31.
For a friendly podcast showing WIPs, finished projects and supporting BIPOC makers tune into Claudia on www.youtube.com/CrochetLuna Emma Friedlander-Collins shows you how to rejuventate a handbag the crochet way www.bit.ly/UpcycleBag The latest Crochet Circle podcast gives advice on frogging and an online place to re-sell your unused skeins www.bit.ly/TheCrochetCircle
F
3
TOASTY TOOTSIES Keep little feet warm with these booties which won’t slip off. The pattern comes in various styles and sizes from Etsy shop LoopsandThingsWpg for £6.01. There is an adult version too.
5
WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET 13
TEXTURED WINTER ACCESSORIES
COATED IN YARN A coatigan works well indoors and if you’re heading outside too. Generous pockets are roomy enough for carrying the essentials.
TEXTURED WINTER ACCESSORIES
mix & match makes
Fresh air wear Our winter walk essentials will keep the chill away with interlacing yarn, chunky texture and oodles of warmth
WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET 15
TEXTURED WINTER ACCESSORIES
PLAIT HAT You may not have worn plaits since childhood, but this braided hat says why not – the captivating detail will make you stand out from the rest.
WRAP UP WARM Sometimes you just want to wear a coat that looks good, but can’t fully protect your arms and shoulders against strong winds. This wrap can come to the rescue! 16 WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET
TEXTURED WINTER ACCESSORIES
TEXTURED WINTER ACCESSORIES
TEXTURED WINTER ACCESSORIES
SOCK IT TO ’EM An epic pair of socks that you could wear under trousers, but an even better option is to show them off with that wonderful winter fashion combination of dress, tights and boots.
POWER COUPLE No, not Jay Z and Beyoncé, it’s wrist-warming mitts and a woolly cup holder of course! Your hands and fingers will welcome the warmth that’ll come from popping these beauts on.
WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET 19
TEXTURED WINTER ACCESSORIES
COWL This plaited design by Fran Morgan could also be worn indoors as a super-chunky necklace, keeping you warm and stylish Q King Cole Fashion Aran (30% wool, 70% acrylic, 100g/200m), 1 ball of each: Lewis (630), Eucalyptus (3056), Ginger (3057) Q A 9mm (US N/15) hook
TENSION Tension is not critical for this project, but it may affect the yarn quantities required
MEASUREMENTS Cowl measures approx 85cm (33 in) around
20 WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET
NOTES Cowl is made up of 3 Strips plaited together.
COWL STRIP (MAKE 3) Using Eucalyptus, ch110. Row 1 (RS) Ss in back bump of each ch, turn. Rows 2-6 Ss in bl of each st across, turn. Change to Ginger. Rows 7-12 As Row 2. Change to Lewis. Rows 13-18 As Row 2. Fasten off and weave in all ends. TO MAKE UP Place the Strips on top of each other and pin
together across one short edge. Plait the Strips and pin at the opposite short edge to secure. Being careful not to undo the plait, sew the short edges together, using correct colour.
HAT The contrast between the choice of yarn colours in this design by Natalie Beard really shows off the braided pattern Q King Cole Fashion Aran (30% wool, 70% acrylic, 100g/200m), 1 ball of each: Lewis (630), Eucalyptus (3056), Ginger (3057) Q A 4mm (US G/6) hook Q Pompom maker, 65mm
TEXTURED WINTER ACCESSORIES
TENSION 14 sts and 13 rounds to measure 10x10cm over rib stitch pattern using a 4mm hook, or size needed to obtain correct tension
MEASUREMENTS Hat measures approx 52cm (20 in) in circumference
NOTES Hat is made up of a Rib Section and Main Body. Both parts are made separately and joined together at the end. Before joining the parts, plaits are worked off the Rib.
HAT RIB SECTION Using Eucalyptus, ch72 and ss to first ch to form a loop (be careful not to twist the ch as you join). Round 1 (RS) Ch3 (counts as tr throughout), tr in each ch around, ss to top of beg ch-3. [72 sts] Rounds 2-5 (RS) Ch3, (FPtr around next st, BPtr around next st) rep around working FPtr in final st, ss to top of beg ch-3. Fasten off and weave in ends
MAIN BODY Using Ginger, make a magic loop. Round 1 (RS) Ch3, 11tr in loop, ss to top of beg
ch-3. [12 sts] Round 2 (RS) Ch3, tr in same st, 2tr in each st around, ss to top of beg ch-3. [24 sts] Round 3 Ch3, (2tr in next st, tr in next st) 11 times, 2tr in final st, ss to top of beg ch-3. [36 sts] Round 4 Ch3, (tr in next st, 2tr in next st, tr in next st) 11 times, tr in next st, 2tr in final st, ss to top of beg ch-3. [48 sts] Round 5 Ch3, tr in next 2 sts, (2tr in next st, tr in next 3 sts) 11 times, 2tr in final st, ss to top of beg ch-3. [60 sts] Round 6 Ch3, tr in each st around, ss to top of beg ch-3. Round 7 Ch3, tr in next 3 sts, (2tr in next st, tr in next 4 sts) 11 times, 2tr in final st, ss to top of beg ch-3. [72 sts] Rounds 8-11 As Round 6. Fasten off and weave in ends. PLAIT SECTIONS (MAKE 18) With RS facing, join Eucalyptus in any st from final round of Rib Section. Row 1 (RS) Ch1 (counts as a dc throughout), dc in next 3 sts, turn. [4 sts] Rows 2-30 Ch1, dc in each st across, turn. Fasten off and weave in ends. Join Lewis in next st around on final round of Rib Section and repeat Rows 1-30. Continue in pattern alternating between
Eucalyptus and Lewis until all sts from the final round of Rib Section have been worked into. You should have 18 crocheted Strips at the end. TO MAKE UP With WS facing and using Ginger, sew the top of the Rib Section to the final round of the Main Body. Keep the Plait Sections on the RS of the work. Turn so RS is facing. Take 3 Plait Sections and plait them together. Whip stitch the tops together to secure the plait and sew to the top of the Hat. Repeat for all Plait Sections. Using all colours, make a pompom and sew to the top of the Hat. Use the pompom to hide the tops of the plaits.
WRAP Puff stitch, fringing and flecked yarn mean this design by Marianne Rawlins makes for a fun and versatile make Q King Cole Fashion Aran (30% wool, 70% acrylic, 100g/200m), 2 balls of each: Lewis (630), Eucalyptus (3056), Ginger (3057) Q A 5mm (US H/8) hook
TENSION Tension is not critical for this project, but it may affect the yarn quantities required WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET 21
TEXTURED WINTER ACCESSORIES MEASUREMENTS Wrap measures approx 36x164cm (14 x64 in)
ABBREVIATIONS puff st *Yrh, insert hook in st/sp indicated, yrh and pull loop up to height of current row; rep from * 3 times more, yrh and pull through all loops on hook, ch1 to close For a full list, see page 94
NOTES Wrap is worked in rows throughout. There is a Stitch Diagram on page 97, which you can refer to when working the Wrap.
WRAP Using Lewis, ch158 loosely (you may wish to use a 5.5mm hook for the foundation ch only). Row 1 (RS) Tr in fifth ch from hook (skipped ch counts as ch1 and tr), ch1, puff st in skipped ch before first tr, ch1, (skip next ch, tr in next ch, ch1, puff st in skipped ch, ch1) 76 times, tr in final ch, turn. [78 tr, 77 puff sts]
Row 2 Ch3 (does not count as st throughout), skip first tr and puff st, tr in sp between first 2 puff sts, ch1, puff st in skipped sp between first tr and first puff st, ch1, *skip sp where prev tr was worked, tr in next sp between 2 puff sts , ch1, puff st in skipped sp where prev tr was worked, ch1; rep from * 75 times more, tr in top of beg ch-3 from prev row. Rows 3-4 As Row 2. Change to Eucalyptus. Rows 5-24 As Row 2 using the following colour sequence: 1 row in Eucalyptus, 1 row in Ginger, 2 rows in Lewis, 4 rows in Ginger, 1 row in Eucalyptus, 1 row in Lewis, 2 rows in Ginger, 4 rows in Eucalyptus, 1 row in Lewis, 1 row in Ginger, 2 rows in Eucalyptus. Fasten off and weave in ends. FRINGE Cut 3 lengths of Lewis, 15cm long. Fold in half and thread through row-end of Row 1. Pull tail through folded ends and pull tight to secure. Repeat across each row-end on short edges of Wrap, using the same yarn as used in the row. Trim to desired length.
MUG HUG You can proudly carry your reusable hot drink cup on your walk when it is wearing a woven warmer by Emma Leith Q King Cole Fashion Aran (30% wool, 70% acrylic, 100g/200m), 1 ball of each: Lewis (630), Eucalyptus (3056), Ginger (3057) Q A 6mm (US J/10) hook
in first ch before tr, (skip next ch, tr in next ch, ch1, puff st in skipped ch, ch1) across to final ch, tr in final ch, turn. Change to Ginger. Row 2 Ch3 (counts as tr throughout), tr in space between first 2 puff sts from prev row, ch1, puff st in space before first puff st from prev row, ch1, skip sp where first tr was worked, *tr in sp between next 2 puff sts, ch1, puff st in skipped sp where prev tr was worked, ch1; rep from * across to final st, tr in final st, turn. Change to Eucalyptus. Row 3 As Row 2. Fasten off leaving a long tail. Using the tail sew the short edges together. EDGING With RS facing, join Ginger into any ch-1 sp from final row. Round 1 (RS) Ch1 (does not count as st), dc in same sp, ch1, (dc, ch1) in each ch-1 sp around, ss to top of beg dc. Fasten off. Join Ginger to opposite side of foundation ch and repeat Round 1 of Edging. Fasten off and weave in ends.
MITTS Practical and good looking, these mitts will be your outdoor essential for the the whole of winter. By Emma Leith Q King Cole Fashion Aran (30% wool, 70% acrylic, 100g/200m), 1 ball of each: Lewis (630), Eucalyptus (3056), Ginger (3057) Q A 5mm (US H/8) hook
TENSION Tension is not critical for this project, pattern can be adapted to fit different sized mugs
MEASUREMENTS Mug Hug measures approx 25cm (9 in)
ABBREVIATIONS puff st *Yrh, insert hook in st/sp indicated, yrh and pull loop up to height of current row; rep from * 4 times more, yrh and pull through all loops on hook, ch1 to close For a full list, see page 94
NOTES Pattern repeat is worked over a multiple of 2 stitches. When working your foundation chain, work to the measurements of your mug. The stitch pattern for Rows 1-3 is the same as the Wrap pattern. You can use to the Stitch Diagram on page 97 as a guide.
MUG HUG Using Lewis, work an even number of ch to fit around mug, making sure you get a tight fit. Row 1 (RS) Tr in fifth ch from hook, ch1, puff st 22 WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET
TENSION 11 sts and 13 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over pattern using a 5mm hook, or size needed to obtain correct tension
TEXTURED WINTER ACCESSORIES MEASUREMENTS Mitts measures approx 25cm (9 in) long and 24cm (9 ) in circumference
ABBREVIATIONS fhtr (foundation half treble) Ch2 (does not count as a st), *yrh, insert hook in last ch from hook, yrh and pull up a loop, yrh and pull through one loop (loop will sit at base of fhtr), yrh and pull through all loops on hook; rep from * inserting hook into loop at base of prev fhtr For a full list, see page 94
NOTES Mitts are worked in rows and seamed together at the end. The brioche pattern is worked around the sts 2 rows below, skipping the sts across the current row. Pattern is worked with 2 rows RS facing followed by 2 rows with WS facing, changing colour at the end of each row. Place unused colour on a stitch marker ready to pick up again every alternate row.
MITTS Using Ginger, fhtr26. Change to Lewis. Row 1 (RS) Ch4 (counts as tr and ch1 throughout), (skip next st, tr in next st, ch1) 11 times, skip next st, tr in next st, place live loop on marker leaving final st unworked. [13 sts, 12 ch-1 sps] Join Eucalyptus in first skipped st from 2 rows below. Work next row in front of sts from Row 1. Row 2 (RS) Ch4, (skip next st from prev row, tr in next skipped st from 2 rows below, ch1) 11 times, tr in final st from 2 rows below, place live loop on marker, turn. Row 3 (WS) Pick up Lewis from marker and work sts behind the sts from Row 2, ch4, (skip
next st, BPtr around next skipped st 2 rows below, ch1) 11 times, BPtr around final skipped st 2 rows below, place live loop on marker. Row 4 (WS) Pick up Eucalyptus from marker and work sts behind sts of prev row, work as Row 3, place live loop on marker, turn. Row 5 (RS) Pick up Lewis from marker and work sts in front of the sts from prev row, ch4, (skip next st, FPtr around next skipped st 2 rows below, ch1) 11 times, FPtr around final skipped st 2 rows below, place live loop on marker. Row 6 Pick up Eucalyptus from marker and work sts in front of sts of prev row, work as Row 5, place live loop on marker, turn. Repeat Rows 3-6 until piece measures 24cm. Fasten off, leaving a 25cm tail. TO MAKE UP Fold in half and use the tail to sew the opening closed, leaving a space for your thumb. You can use the image as a guide. EDGING Join Ginger in any row-end around finger opening and work a round of dc evenly around edge. Fasten off and weave in ends.
TENSION 13 sts and 9 rounds to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over half treble crochet using a 4.5mm hook, or size needed to obtain correct tension
MEASUREMENTS Sock measures 20 (21.5: 23)cm (8 (8 : 9)in) around foot circumference
ABBREVIATIONS
SOCKS Love tights but hate the cold legs that come with them? Pop on Fran Morgan’s socks and you can still rock the bright hosiery Q King Cole Fashion Aran (30% wool, 70% acrylic, 100g/200m), 1 ball of each: Lewis (630), Eucalyptus (3056), Ginger (3057) Q A 4mm (US G/6) hook Q A 4.5mm (US 7) hook Q A 5mm (US H/8) hook Q A 5.5mm (US I/9) hook
fhtr See abbreviations for Mitts reverse dc *Insert hook into next st to the right (or left if left-handed), yrh and pull up a loop, yrh and pull through 2 loops on hook; rep from * as required For a full list, see page 94
NOTES Socks are worked from the toe up. At the end of the Foot Section a space is left for the Heel. The Heel is worked in at the end. Pattern is written in 3 sizes: Small, Medium and Large. Instructions for the Small size are written first with instructions for the other two sizes written in brackets. Change colour after the joining slip st at end of round.
SOCKS TOE SECTION Using 4mm hook and Ginger, ch7. Round 1 (RS) Dc in second ch from hook and next 5 ch, turn to work in opposite side of foundation ch, dc in next 6 ch, ss to beg dc. [12 dc] Round 2 Ch1 (does not count as st throughout), 2dc in first st, dc in next 4 sts, 2dc in next 2 sts, dc in next 4 sts, 2dc in final st, ss to beg dc. [16 dc] Round 3 Ch1, dc in each st around, ss to beg dc. Round 4 Ch1, 2dc in first st, dc in next 6 sts, 2dc in next 2 sts, dc in next 6 sts, 2dc in final st, ss to beg dc. [20 dc] Round 5 As Round 3. Round 6 Ch1, 2dc in first st, dc in next 8 sts, 2dc WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET 23
TEXTURED WINTER ACCESSORIES in next 2 sts, dc in next 8 sts, 2dc in final st, ss to beg dc. [24 dc]
Repeat Round 2 until Foot Section measures 16 (18: 21)cm, following colour sequence set.
SIZES M AND L ONLY
HEEL SPACE
Round 7 Ch1, 2dc in first st, dc in next 10 sts, 2dc in next 2 sts, dc in next 10 sts, 2dc in final st, ss to beg dc. [28 dc]
Continue in colour sequence. Round 1 (RS) Ch2, htr in next 12 (14: 16) sts, fhtr 13 (15: 17), ss to top of beg ch-2. [26 (30: 34) sts]
SIZE L ONLY
LEG SECTION
Round 8 Ch1, 2dc in first st, dc in next 12 sts, 2dc in next 2 sts, dc in next 12 sts, 2dc in final st, ss to beg dc. [32 dc]
Continue in colour sequence. Rounds 1-4 Ch2, htr in each st around, ss to top of beg ch-2. [26 (30: 34) sts] Change to a 5mm hook. Round 5 (RS) Ch2, htr in st at base of ch, htr in each st to final st, 2htr in final st, ss to top of beg ch-2. [28 (34: 38) sts] Rounds 6-9 As Round 1. Round 6 As Round 5. [30 (36: 40) sts] Rounds 7-10 As Round 1. Change to a 5.5mm hook. Round 11 As Round 5. [32 (38: 40) sts] Repeat Round 1 until Leg measures 15cm less than desired length. Fasten off and weave in ends.
FOOT SECTION Colour sequence: *1 round Eucalyptus, 1 round Lewis, 1 round Ginger, 2 rounds Eucalyptus, 2 rounds Lewis, 2 rounds Ginger, 3 rounds Eucalyptus, 3 rounds Lewis, 3 rounds Ginger, 5 rounds Eucalyptus, 5 rounds Lewis, 5 rounds Ginger; rep from * to end of Leg Section. Change to 4.5mm hook and join Eucalyptus in first st. Round 1 (RS) Ch2 (counts as htr throughout), htr in st at base of ch, htr in next 11 (13: 15) sts, 2htr in next st, htr in next 11 (13: 15) sts, ss to top of beg ch-2. [26 (30: 34) sts] Change to Lewis. Round 2 Ch2, htr in each st around. Change to Ginger.
CUFF Using a 5.5mm hook, join Ginger into any st at back of Leg. Round 1 (RS) Ch1, dc in each st around, ss to
beg dc. [32 (38: 40) sts] Round 2 Ch1, reverse dc around, ss to beg dc. Rounds 3-4 As Round 1. Round 5 Ch1, dc in first st *ch3, skip 2 sts, dc in next st, turn so WS is facing, ch1, dc in each ch of ch-3, ss in dc before ch-3, turn so RS is facing, dc in 2 skipped sts (working behind the ch-3 sp); rep from * another 9 (11: 12) times, dc in final 1 (1: 0) sts, ss to top of beg dc. Rounds 6-7 As Round 1. Round 8 As Round 2. Fasten off.
HEEL Using a 4mm hook and with RS facing, join Ginger into side of Heel sp before first fhtr. Round 1 (RS) Ch1, dc in each st around, ss to beg dc. [26 (30: 34) sts] Round 2 Ch1, (dc2tog), dc in next 9 (10: 11) sts, (dc2tog) twice, dc in next 9 (10: 11) sts, (dc2tog), ss to beg dc. [22 (26: 30) sts] Round 3 As Round 1. Round 4 Ch1, (dc2tog), dc in next 7 (9: 11) sts, (dc2tog) twice, dc in next 7 (9: 11) sts, (dc2tog), ss to beg dc. [18 (22: 26) sts] Round 5 As Round 1. Round 6 Ch1, (dc2tog), dc in next 5 (7: 9) sts, (dc2tog) twice, dc in next 5 (6: 9) sts, (dc2tog), ss to beg dc. [14 (18: 22) sts] Round 7 As Round 1. Round 8 Ch1, (dc2tog), dc in next 3 (5: 7) sts, (dc2tog) twice , dc in next 3 (5: 7), (dc2tog), ss to top of beg dc. [10 (14: 18) sts] Fasten off sizes S and M only, leaving long tail. Using the tail, sew the Heel opening closed. Weave in all ends.
SIZE L ONLY Round 9 As Round 1. Round 10 Ch1, (dc2tog), dc in next 5 sts, (dc2tog) twice , dc in next 5 sts, (dc2tog), ss to top of beg dc. [14 sts] Fasten off, leaving a long tail. Using the tail, sew the Heel opening closed. Weave in all ends.
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*Yarn shades offered may vary from those shown here
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COATIGAN
Open front design
26 WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET
COATIGAN
we love
y l e v o l & g n Lo Get the best of both worlds with Fran Morgan’s easy-to-wear coat and cardigan combination
WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET 27
COATIGAN
We’re certain you’ll not regret embarking on this project. Keep your coatigan right by the front door to throw it on whenever you come in or out – you’ll soon wonder what you ever did without it!
EASY PEASY ARAN WEIGHT
4.5MM 5MM
NOTES YOU WILL NEED
Coatigan is worked side to side in separate pieces for Back, Fronts and Sleeves. Both Fronts are identical and one is flipped over for the opposite Front. Each Front has a Border and extension for the Collar worked in double crochet, which is sewn to the Back neck afterwards. Sleeve Cuffs are worked in short rows of slip st rib into row-ends of Sleeve. Patch Pockets are sewn on the Front.
King Cole Fashion Aran (70% acrylic, 30% wool, 100g/200m) Lewis (630) See table for yarn quantities and measurements Q A 4.5mm (US 7) hook Q A 5mm (US H/8) hook For yarn stockists contact King Cole 01756 703670 www.kingcole.com Q
COATIGAN BACK Using a 5mm hook, ch145 (147: 149: 151: 151). Row 1 (RS) Htr in second ch from hook and in each ch to end, turn. [144 (146: 148: 150: 150) sts] Row 2 Ch2 (does not count as st), htr in each st to end, turn. Rep Row 2 until Back measures 71 (76: 81: 86: 91) cm. Fasten off.
TENSION 12 sts and 8 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over half treble crochet using a 5mm hook or size needed to obtain tension
ABBREVIATIONS For a full list, see page 94
FRONT MAKE 2 Using a 5mm hook, ch145 (147: 149: 151: 151). Row 1 (RS) Htr in second ch from hook and in each ch to end, turn. [144 (146: 148: 150: 150) sts] Row 2 Ch2 (does not count as st), htr in each st to end, turn. Rep Row 2 until Front measures 27 (29.5: 32: 34.5: 37)cm, at the end of the last row ch10 for the Collar extension, turn.
BORDER AND COLLAR
CUFF Worked in short rows into the row-ends at one end of the Sleeve. Make sure both Sleeve pieces
TO FIT BUST ACTUAL BUST APPROX LENGTH
Bust width a: 71 (76: 81: 86: 91)cm, 28 (30: 32: 34: 36)in Length b: 120 (122: 123: 125: 125)cm, 47 0 (48: 48 : 49 : 49 )in Sleeve length c: 43cm, 16 in 28 WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET
Rep prev row 6 times more. Fasten off.
Next row Ch1 (does not count as st throughout), dc in next 10 ch, dc in each st to end, turn. Next row Ch1, dc in each st to end, turn.
c b
Cuffs are worked in short rows of slip stitch rib into the row-ends of the sleeves
SLEEVES MAKE 2 Using a 5mm hook, ch39. Row 1 (RS) Htr in second ch from hook and in each ch to end, turn. [38 sts] Row 2 Ch2 (does not count as st), htr in each st to end, turn. Rep Row 2 until Sleeve measures 52 (54: 56: 58: 58)cm. Fasten off.
SIZE
a
After making the pockets, try on the coatigan to get the best position for your arm length
SLEEVE LENGTH YARN
8-10
12-14
16-18
20-22
24-26
cm
81-86
91-97
102-107
112-117
122-127
in
32-34
36-38
40-42
44-46
48-50
cm
142
152
162
172
182
in
56
60
64
68
72
cm
120
122
123
125
125
in
47
48
48
49
49
cm in 100g
43 16 11
43 16 12
43 16 13
43 16 14
To make this pattern easier to follow, we’ve colour-coded the sizing instructions – simply follow the relevant column.
43 16 14
COATIGAN
are oriented in the same direction. Using a 4.5mm hook, with RS facing, join yarn to cuff end at right-hand side, ch21. Row 1 (RS) Ss in second ch from hook and in each ch to end, ss in next 2 row ends, turn. [20 rib sts and 2 joining ss] Row 2 Skip 2 ss, ss in bl of each st to end, turn. Row 3 Ch1 (does not count as st), ss in bl of each st back to main piece, ss in next 2 row ends, turn. Rep Rows 2 and 3 until all the row-ends have been worked. Fasten off. PATCH POCKET MAKE 2 Using a 5mm hook, ch32. Row 1 (RS) Htr in second ch from hook and in each ch to end, turn. [31 sts] Row 2 Ch2 (does not count as st), htr in each st to end, turn. Rep Row 2 until you have worked 21 rows in total. Fasten off. TO MAKE UP Sew shoulder seams. Sew together short ends of Collar and long inside edge to Back neck. Mark a point 26 (27: 28: 29: 29)cm down from shoulder seam. Fold Sleeve WS together and place fold at marked point. Sew Sleeve and side seams. Sew Pockets to Fronts using image as a guide. Using a 4.5mm hook, work surface ss in between the rows of dc on Border to prevent the border sagging. Weave in all ends.
The main fabric is worked in half treble stitches throughout, making this pattern easy enough for beginners
SIMPLE STEPS HOW TO WORK SURFACE CROCHET
1 Secure the yarn at back of fabric and bring a loop to the front with your hook, at the point where you want to start your line of surface crochet. Keep the working yarn at the back of the fabric and the hook at the front.
2 Insert the hook from front to back into the next hole in the fabric, where you want to create the next stitch. Work yrh with the yarn at the back of the fabric. Pull the loop of yarn through to the front of your fabric (2 loops on hook).
3 Draw the new loop through the first loop to form a slip stitch. Make sure the stitch lies flat against the surface of the fabric. Repeat from Step 2 to make more slip stitches in a line, moving in any direction, to the last stitch.
4 Cut yarn, leaving a 10cm tail. Use your hook to pull the tail through the last stitch. Using a tapestry needle, take the tail over the last slip st and back into the fabric. This forms a small loop to secure the final stitch. Weave in end. WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET 29
SEAL AMIGURUMI
strokably soft
syd the seal Hook up Erinna Lee’s adorable creature as a gift and you’ll surely get a seal of approval 30 WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET
SEAL AMIGURUMI
We know Syd has worked his way into your heart – he has ours! Seal the deal and make this fluffy bundle of joy.
A BIT TRICKY SUPER CHUNKY
3MM 4MM
YOU WILL NEED Scheepjes Furry Tales (100% polyester, 57m/100g) 1 ball of Snow White (970) Q Scheepjes Catona (100% cotton, 25m/10g) 1 ball of Baby Blue (509) Q A 4mm (G/6) hook Q A 3mm (C/2 or D/3) hook Q Toy stuffing Q 2 safety eyes, 9mm Q A small amount of dark grey stranded cotton Q Stitch markers Q Tapestry and embroidery needles For yarn stockists contact Scheepjes www.scheepjes.com/en Q
NOTES Seal is worked using the amigurumi method. Work in a continuous spiral without closing off each round with a slip stitch. You may find it helpful to place a marker in the first st of each round and move it up as you work. When working with Furry Tales yarn, mark the last stitch of every pattern repeat at the very least or more if required. For example, for Round 3, mark the 6th, 12th and 18th stitches. For Round 14, mark the 4th, 8th, 12th, 16th, 20th, 24th, 28th and 32nd stitches. This will help you keep track of your stitches. The end of each round indicates the top side of the Head and Body. You can mark the top side to help orientate the assembly later if you wish. If you are making this toy for a child under 36 months, do not use safety eyes; instead, embroider eyes with stranded cotton.
Make fore flippers separately, then sew them into the gap left in the body for them
Add the safety eyes before completing the head – between Rounds 6 and 7
SYD THE SEAL TENSION Tension is not critical for this project, but may affect yarn quantities required
MEASUREMENTS Syd measures approx 22cm (8 in) from nose to tail
ABBREVIATIONS For a full list, see page 94
HEAD AND BODY Using a 4mm hook and Snow White, make a magic loop. Round 1 (RS) Ch1 (does not count as st throughout), 6dc into ring. [6 dc] Round 2 2dc in each dc around. [12 dc] Round 3 (Dc in next dc, 2dc in next dc) 6 times. [18 dc] Round 4 (Dc in next 2 dc, 2dc in next dc) 6 times. [24 dc] Round 5 (Dc in next 3 dc, 2dc in next dc) 6 times. [30 dc] Round 6 (Dc in next 4 dc, 2dc in next dc) 6 times. [36 dc] Leave the 6th and 30th stitches of Round 6 marked. This will indicate where the eyes will be inserted. Rounds 7-11 Dc in each dc around. [36 dc] Leave the 12th and 24th stitches of Round 11 marked. This will indicate where the Fore Flippers will be sewn. Insert the safety eyes at approximately the 8th and 28th st between Rounds 6 and 7. Use the marked stitches from Round 6 as a guide. Rounds 12-13 Dc in each dc around. Round 14 (Dc in next 7 dc, dc2tog) 4 times. [32 sts] Round 15 Dc in each dc around. Round 16 (Dc in next 6 dc, dc2og) 4 times. [28 sts] Round 17 Dc in each dc around. Round 18 (Dc in next 5 dc, dc2tog) 4 times. [24 sts] Round 19 Dc in each dc around. Start stuffing the Head and Body firmly with toy stuffing and continue to do so as you crochet the rest of the Body.
Round 20 (Dc in next 4 dc, dc2tog) 4 times. [20 sts] Round 21 Dc in each dc around. Round 22 (Dc in next 3 dc, dc2tog) 4 times. [16 sts] Round 23 (Dc in next 2 dc, dc2tog) 4 times. [12 sts] Round 24 (Dc2tog) 6 times. [6 sts] Slip stitch in next stitch and fasten off, leaving a long tail. Thread the tail through a needle. Weave the needle through the front loop of each of the 6 dc, always going in the direction from the centre and under the front loop. Pull tail to close. Insert the needle through the middle of the hole and pull through the Body. Weave in the tail. MUZZLE Using a 3mm hook and Baby Blue, make a magic ring. Rounds 1-6 Work as Rounds 1-6 of Head and Body Round 7 (Dc in next 5 dc, 2dc in next dc) 6 times. [42 dc] Round 8 (Dc in next 6 dc, 2dc in next dc) 6 times. [48 dc] Round 9 (Dc in next 7 dc, 2dc in next dc) 6 times. [54 dc] Ss in next stitch and fasten off, leaving a long tail for sewing the Muzzle to the face. Using dark grey stranded cotton and the image as a guide, embroider the nose over Rounds 1-3 of the Muzzle. The bottom of the nose should go through the start magic ring, while the top of the nose should be 6 sts wide. WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET 31
SEAL AMIGURUMI
FORE FLIPPERS MAKE 2 Using a 4mm hook and Snow White, make a magic ring. Round 1 (RS) Ch1, 6dc into ring. [6 dc] Round 2 (Dc in next dc, 2dc in next dc) 3 times. [9 dc] Round 3 (Dc in next 2 dc, 2dc in next dc) 3 times. [12 dc] Rounds 4-5 Dc in each dc around. Flatten the opening of the Flipper and work 6dc through both layers to close the opening. Fasten off, leaving a long yarn tail. HIND FLIPPERS MAKE 2 Using a 4mm hook and Snow White, make a magic ring. Round 1 (RS) Ch1, 6dc into ring. [6 dc] Round 2 (Dc in next 2 dc, 2dc in next dc) twice. [8 dc] Round 3 (Dc in next 3 dc, 2dc in next dc) twice. [10 dc] Rounds 4-8 Dc in each dc around. Round 9 (Dc in next 3 dc, dc2tog) 2 times. [8 sts] Flatten the opening of the Flipper and work 4dc through both layers to close the opening. Fasten off, leaving a long yarn tail.
Make the muzzle as a separate piece, embroider on a black nose, then sew it to the face
Sew the hind flippers to the back end of the body
TO MAKE UP Sew the Muzzle to the face between the eyes. The eyes should lie approximately in line with the top of the embroidered nose of the Muzzle. Stuff a little toy stuffing under the Muzzle as you join. Sew the Fore Flippers to the Body. The flat edge of each Flipper should be parallel to the plane of the Body. The front corner of the flat edge of each Flipper should be positioned above the marked stitches in Round 11 of the Body. Sew the Hind Flippers to the back of the Body. The Hind Flippers should be in the same plane as the Fore Flippers. The inside corners of each Flipper should meet in the centre of the back end of the Body.
SIMPLE STEPS HOW TO USE STITCH MARKERS IN SPIRALS In this pattern, you’ll work the stitches in spiral rounds. If you’ve never done this before, don’t worry, it’s easy! At the end of a round, don’t join the first and last stitches with a slip stitch. Instead, just work the first stitch of a new round into the top of the first stitch on the previous round. Using stitch markers will help you to keep track of spiral rounds. Our step-by-step guide (right) will show you how to do this.
32 WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET
1 Work the first stitch of a round and place a stitch marker in this first stitch.
2 Work a spiral round of double crochet stitches until you’ve worked the last stitch of the round. The next stitch you’ll want to work into will have the stitch marker in it.
3 You’ll need to remove the marker, work the first stitch of the new round and then replace the stitch marker in this first stitch, to mark the start of the round again.
Hook up something new this year with our range of fabulous kits, like the mindfulness crochet-along pictured. This pattern has been designed by five talented designers in our award-winning Deramores Studio DK yarn. Download this gorgeous pattern and more from our online shop www.deramores.com
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SLIPPERS
easy make
Step into comfort These stylish slippers by Yoko Hatta are a beautiful gift from your hands to your feet 34 WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET
SLIPPERS
EASY PEASY ARAN WEIGHT
3.5MM HOOK
Open-backed slippers such as this pair are a great design, perfect for anyone who can’t reach their feet easily or like to get their toes toasty, quick as a flash.
NOTES YOU WILL NEED Noro Kureyon (100% wool, 50g/100m) 2 (3) balls of Tomato Black Brown (263) Q A 3.5mm (US E/4) hook For yarn stockists contact Knitting Fever www.knittingfever.com Q
TENSION 20 sts and 20 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over double crochet using a 3.5mm hook, or size needed to obtain correct tension
MEASUREMENTS Slippers measure 25.5 (27)cm (10 (10 )in) long and 12 (12)cm (4 (4 ) in) wide
ABBREVIATIONS For a full list, see page 94
Sized for a woman’s small (medium/large). Slippers are made up of Sole and Top. The Sole is worked in rounds with RS facing throughout. The Top is worked in rows. The 2 pieces are joined together at the end with a dc seam.
Join the slipper top to the sole with a dc seam worked around the outer edges of the pieces
SLIPPERS SOLE Ch31 (34). Round 1 (RS) Dc in second ch from hook and in each ch to end, turn to work in opposite side of foundation ch, dc in each ch across, ss to beg dc. [60 (66) sts] Round 2 (RS) Dc in next dc, 2dc in next dc, dc in next 27 (30) sts, 2dc in next 3 dc, dc in next 27 (30) sts, 2dc in next dc, ss to beg dc. [65 (71) sts] Round 3 2dc in next dc, dc in next dc, 2dc in next dc, dc in next 25 (28) sts, htr in next 2 dc, 2tr in next 7 dc, htr in next 2 dc, dc in next 25 (28) sts, 2dc in next dc, ss to beg dc. [75 (81) sts] Round 4 (Dc in next dc, 2dc in next dc) twice, dc in next 22 (25) sts, htr in next 2 dc, tr in next 3 sts, (2tr in next tr, tr in next tr) 6 times, 2tr in next tr, tr in next 3 sts, htr in next 2 dc, dc in next 22 (25) sts, (2dc in next dc, dc in next dc) twice, ss to beg dc. [86 (92) sts] Round 5 (Dc in next 2 dc, 2dc in next dc) twice, dc in next 19 (22) sts, htr in next 4 sts, tr in next 4 sts, (2tr in next tr, tr in next 2 tr) 6 times, 2tr in next tr, tr in next 4 sts, htr in next 4 sts, dc in next 20 (23) sts, (2dc in next dc, dc in next 2 dc) twice, ss to beg dc. [97 (103) sts] Round 6 2dc in next dc, dc in next 3 dc, 2dc in next dc, dc in next 17 (20) sts, htr in next 6 sts, tr in next 8 sts, (2tr in next tr, tr in next 3 tr) 6 times, 2tr in next tr, tr in next 8 sts, htr in next 6 sts, dc in next 18 (21) sts, 2dc in next dc, dc in next 3 sts, ss to beg dc. [107 (113) sts] Round 7 Dc in next 5 dc, 2dc in next dc, dc in next 32 (35) sts, (2dc in next tr, dc in next 4 dc) 6 times, 2dc in next tr, dc in next 32 (35) sts, 2dc in next dc, dc in next 5 dc, ss to beg dc. [116 (122) sts] Fasten off.
The sole begins with double crochet worked along both sides of the foundation chain
Row 17 As Row 3. [27 sts] Rows 18-20 As Row 2. Rep last 4 rows another 3 times. [33 sts] Fasten off. TO MAKE UP With RS facing, join Top to the Sole using a dc seam. The narrowest edge of the top should be positioned at the front-end of each Slipper. Work a round of ss around the dc seam. You can use the images as a guide. Join yarn to corner of Top and work a round of dc around opening. Work a final round of ss into the dc edging just worked. Weave in all ends.
TOP Ch16. Row 1 (RS) Dc in second ch from hook and in each ch to end, turn. [15 sts] Row 2 (WS) Ch1, dc in each dc across, turn. Row 3 Ch1, 2dc in next dc, dc in each dc to final st, 2dc in last st, turn. [17 sts] Row 4 As Row 2. Rows 5-12 Rep Rows 3-4 another 4 times. [25 sts] Rows 13-16 As Row 2. WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET 35
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SANDRA’S JOURNAL studio ...f rom the
In her final instalment, guest writer Sandra Gutierrez of Nomad Stitches looks forward to springtime and nature’s wealth of inspiration aking garments and accessories for myself was something I started as a teenager. Ever since then I started designing my own projects, partly because I just wanted to experiment with stitches and shapes, but mostly because I had specific ideas of what I wanted to add to my wardrobe and just had to make them! For example, when I wanted to wear a cropped sweater over my dresses and didn’t own one, I simply made one. When it got cold and I needed a hat, I made one too. I think this is the best reason to make garments and accessories as it means that you will definitely wear what you make.
M
MY STYLE JOURNEY This means that I inject a lot of my own personal style into my designs and that is not always a great thing. I mean, it’s good to have a sense of what your style is and share that with the world, I think. But growing up I was the kid in the oversized red T-shirt, black-and-white-striped skirt and worn green Converse trainers. Nobody who knows me well would ever call me subtle, and I understand that this aesthetic is not for everyone! So, as a designer who creates patterns for other people to make and wear, I had to learn to connect to other sides of my style inspiration and personality.
Na ture bri ngs out the si de in S a n dra 's crocfemh in in e et
LET’S GET GIRLY Part of this exploration involved getting in touch with my feminine side. This meant making bralettes and dresses, but also connecting with nature. Spanish is my first language and in Spanish all nouns have a gender. Nature is feminine (la naturaleza) and it is what inspires a lot of my designs. It might sound a bit philosophical, but I love the idea of nature as a female – strong and beautiful. As a source of design inspiration I look at naturally occurring shapes and colours. One of my most popular designs is my Taroko sweater. It is a round yoke sweater worked in waistcoat stitch with stranded colourwork. The stitch makes it look almost like it was knitted. It also has lace elements throughout the yoke and body. It was inspired by Taroko National Park, a place in Taiwan, where I lived for two years after graduating. You can see how the mountains and rivers there inspired the motifs when you look at the colourwork. The lace running through the sweater evokes shapes of petals and leaves. It’s not my most feminine designs, but it is connected to nature in a wonderful way! Another technique which I use to emulate nature is by adding ruffles and working scallops into garments. Such a simple detail adds so much to a design and it turns anything into a show stopper! Another great addition is puffy gathered
inspiration As a source of design I look at naturally-occurring shapes and colours
The Juniper and Taroko sweaters both use lace sleeves. Nothing says feminine more than that! But my favourite design element that injects lots of natural shapes and movement is lace. I add lace as the main part of designs sometimes, like on my Secret Garden Top where the whole body is a lace motif. I also work lace as an embellishment to take a garment to the next level, like on the sleeves of my Juniper Sweater. This sweater could be very basic, with a round neckline and compound raglan shaping. However, since I added scallops at the bottom hem and a flowery lace panel on the sleeves, it stands out so much! WHAT ABOUT COLOUR? Well, colour is a great tool for me to inject a bit of edginess into what could be very girly design. I designed a summery top with puffy gathered sleeves and if I had made it in pinks and baby blues, it might have been too much. But because
I used geometric motifs in the body and dark blue, white and fuchsia yarn, it is not over the top. On the other hand, garments with sharp lines change completely when using lighter colours, like on my Kitzbuhel cardigan and its geometric mosaic crochet motifs. I used a contrasting pale pink and off-white and it’s such a soft combination! Basically, what I have learned most about garment designs, is that people are complex and that complexity should be a part of our designs. Colour, shaping and other crochet elements are there to allow self expression. That’s my favourite part of designing a garment. Keep up with Sandra online at www.nomadstitches.com and follow her on Instagram at @nomadstitches
Sandra’s nature motifs Imitating flowers with yarn can be so fun! I love adding them to my garments; be it granny squares with lots of texture, embroidery or lace. Here are a few ways I've incorporated flowers into a garment or accessory.
STRIPED SCARF
Long, loose drape
40 WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET
STRIPED SCARF
we love
candy stripes Emma Leith’s scarf is like a sweet shop – perfect for those with a sweet tooth and hungry hook
WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET 41
STRIPED SCARF
The sweetness of the pastel colours is offset wonderfully by the dark liquorice stripes, giving an edgy flavour to a saccharine design.
A BIT TRICKY CHUNKY WEIGHT
7MM HOOK
YOU WILL NEED Rico Creative Chic Unique Cake (75% acrylic, 15% wool, 10% polyamide, 200g/310m) 2 cakes of Yarn A Candy (005) Q Rico Basic Acrylic Chunky (55% wool, 45% acrylic, 100g/125m) 3 balls of each: Yarn B Black (012) Yarn C Cream (002) Q Or Rico Essentials Mega Merino (100% acrylic, 100g/156m) 2 balls of each: Yarn B Anthracite (015) Yarn C Cream (001) See Notes Q A 7mm (US K/10 or L/11) hook Q Stitch markers For yarn stockists contact Rico Design www.rico-design.co.uk Q
TENSION Tension is not critical although we advise you keep it loose to ensure a relaxed drape
NOTES Scarf is worked in rows throughout. After the first row has been worked the pattern is worked with 2 WS rows followed by 2 RS rows. Scarf is worked using Rico Basic Acrylic Chunky; however, the availability of this yarn is limited at present. We have suggested an alternate Rico yarn that can be used instead.
Begin the scarf with a row of foundation trebles for a straight edge with deep stitches
SCARF Using Yarn A, ftr33, turn. Row 1 (RS) Ch4, FPdtr around each st across, turn. Row 2 (WS) Ch5 (counts as dtr and ch-1 throughout), (skip next st, BPdtr around next st, ch1) 15 times, skip next st, BPdtr around final st, place live loop on stitch marker, do not turn. [17 BPdtr, 16 ch-1 sps] Join Yarn B around post of first skipped st of Row 1. Row 3 (WS) Ch5, (skip next st from Row 2, BPdtr around next skipped st from Row 1, ch1) 15 times omitting final ch1, place live loop on marker, turn. [16 BPdtr, 15 ch-1 sps] Place live loop of Yarn A on hook. Row 4 (RS) Ch5, (skip next st, FPdtr around unworked next st from 2 rows below, ch1) across to final st 2 rows below, FPdtr around
final st, place live loop on hook. [17 BPdtr, 16 ch-1 sps] Place live loop of Yarn B on hook and work in front of the sts from Row 4. Row 5 (RS) Ch5, (skip next st, FPdtr around unworked next st from 2 rows below, ch1) across to final st from 2 rows below, FPdtr around final st, place live loop on marker, turn. [16 BPdtr, 15 ch-1 sps] Place live loop of Yarn A on hook. Row 6 Ch5, (skip next st, BPdtr around next st 2 rows below, ch1) across to final st, BPdtr around final st, place live loop on stitch marker, do not turn. [17 BPdtr, 16 ch-1 sps] Place live loop of Yarn B on hook. Row 7 Ch5, (skip next st, BPdtr around next st 2 rounds below, ch1) across to final st, BPdtr around final st, place live loop on marker, turn.
MEASUREMENTS Scarf measure approx 38x250cm (15x98 in)
ABBREVIATIONS ftr (foundation treble) Ch3 (does not count as st), *yrh, insert hook in first ch, yrh and pull through loop, yrh and pull through one loop on hook (loop will sit at base of ftr), (yrh and pull through 2 loops) twice; rep from * as required but insert hook into loop at base of prev ftr For a full list, see page 94
Work the pattern with two wrong sides facing, followed by two right sides facing
42 WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET
STRIPED SCARF
[16 BPdtr, 15 ch-1 sps] Fasten off Yarn B. Place Yarn A live loop on hook. Row 8 As Row 4, do not turn. [17 BPdtr, 16 ch-1 sps] Join Yarn C around post of first skipped from prev row. Row 9 As Row 5. Rows 10-13 As Rows 6-9, using Yarn C instead of Yarn B. [16 BPdtr, 15 ch-1 sps] Fasten off Yarn C. Continue in pattern until scarf measures 250cm long, ending on an odd-numbered row. Use Yarn A for all even-numbered rows, leaving loop on stitch marker where indicated. Change between Yarn B and C every 6 rows. Last row Using Yarn A, ch3 (counts as tr), tr in each st and each skipped st 2 rounds below across to end. [33 sts] Fasten off and weave in ends.
Self-striping Yarn A gives glorious colour variation to the scarf
SAVE OR SPLURGE For a more budget-friendly make, try James C. Brett Marble Chunky, 2 balls of Yarn A (MC82); James C. Brett Top Value Chunky, 2 balls of each: Yarn B (TC13), Yarn C (TC09) For yarn stockists contact www.jamescbrett.co.uk
SIMPLE STEPS HOW TO MAKE A DOUBLE TREBLE
1 To make a double treble crochet stitch, yrh twice and insert the hook under the top two loops of the next stitch on the previous row. Yrh and draw through the stitch only (4 loops on hook).
2 Yrh and pull the yarn through the first 2 loops only (3 loops on hook).
3 Yrh and pull the yarn through the first 2 loops only (2 loops on hook).
4 Yrh and pull the yarn through the remaining 2 loops. There’s your double treble made and you’ll have one loop left on your hook ready to do the next stitch.
WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET 43
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EMBELLISH AN OUTFIT
quick Make
ROAR!
Dino mites For the scariest sleeve around, add this fearsome dinosaur appliqué by Millie Dean
WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET 45
EMBELLISH AN OUTFIT
A BIT TRICKY DK WEIGHT
4MM HOOK
Your little one will have a totally roarsome time wearing a Tyrannosaurus Rex on their top. We have it on good authority that this one doesn’t bite, and is actually an advocate for brushing teeth as it likes to keep its gnashers sparkling!
YOU WILL NEED
NOTES
Paintbox Yarns Cotton DK (100% cotton, 50g/125m) 1 ball of each: Spearmint Green (426) or Sky Blue (439) Royal Blue (441) Paper White (401) Pure Black (402) Q A 4mm (US G/6) hook For yarn contact LoveCrafts 01409 404010 www.lovecrafts.com
Dinosaur Appliqué is worked in rows. Chain extensions are worked for the mouth. The Arm is worked separately and sewn on at the end. If left-handed, the Dinosaur will face in the opposite direction.
Q
TENSION Tension is not critical for this project, but it may affect the yarn quantities required
MEASUREMENTS Dinosaur measures approx 14x15cm (5 x6in) across widest points, excluding Spine
ABBREVIATIONS For a full list, see page 94
46 WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET
Make an eye by embroidering a white French knot, finished with a small black stitch
DINOSAUR APPLIQUÉ Using Spearmint Green or Sky Blue, ch15. Row 1 (RS) Htr in third ch from hook and each ch across, turn. [13 sts] Row 2 (WS) Ch2 (does not count as st throughout), htr in each st across, turn. Row 3 As Row 2. Row 4 Ch2, (htr2tog) first 2 sts, htr in each st across, turn. [12 sts] Row 5 Ch2, htr in first 10 sts, htr2tog final 2 sts, ch14, turn. [11 sts, 1 ch-14] Row 6 Ss in second ch from hook, dc in next ch, htr in next 11 ch, htr in next 11 sts, turn. [24 sts] Row 7 Ch2, htr in first 18 sts, dc in next st, ss in next 2 sts, turn leaving rem sts unworked. [21 sts] Row 8 Skip first st, ss in next st, dc in next st, htr in next 18 sts, turn. [20 sts] Row 9 Ch2, htr in first 14 sts, dc in next st, ss in next st, turn leaving rem sts unworked. [16 sts] Row 10 Skip first st, ss in next st, dc in next st, htr in next 12 sts, turn leaving final st unworked. [15 sts] Row 11 Ch2, (htr2tog) first 2 sts, htr in next 9 sts, ch11, turn. [10 sts, 1 ch-11] Row 12 Ss in second ch from hook, dc in next ch, htr in next 8 ch, htr in next 8 sts, (htr2tog) final 2 sts, turn. [19 sts] Row 13 Ch2, (htr2tog) first 2 sts, htr in next 14 sts, (dc2tog) next 2 sts, ss in next st, turn. [17 sts] Row 14 Skip first st, ss in next st, dc in next st, htr in next 12 sts, (htr2tog) final 2 sts, turn. [15 sts] Row 15 Ch2, htr in first 10 sts, (dc2tog) next 2 sts, ss in next st, turn leaving rem 3 sts unworked. [12 sts] Row 16 Ch1 (does not count as st throughout), skip first st, (htr2tog) next 2 sts, htr in next 6 sts, (htr2tog) next 2 sts, turn leaving 1 st unworked. [8 sts] Row 17 Ch1, skip first st, dc in next st, htr in next 2 sts, (dc2tog) next 2 sts, turn leaving 2 sts unworked. Fasten off. Join same colour used for body into bottom right-hand corner of Dinosaur. Work 28dc up back of Dinosaur to Row 15. Fasten off.
We’ve sewn our dinos on short-sleeved tees, but it makes a great motif for anywhere!
SPINE Join Royal Blue in first dc worked up back of Dinosaur. Row 1 (RS) (Ch3, tr2tog next 2 dc, ss in next st) 9 times. Fasten off and weave in ends. TEETH With RS facing, join white in top corner of mouth. Row 1 (RS) (Ch2, ss in next st/ch across) rep around mouth opening. Fasten off and weave in ends. ARM (MAKE 1) Using Spearmint Green or Sky Blue, ch7. Row 1 (RS) Htr in third ch from hook, htr in next ch, 3htr in next ch, htr in next 2 ch. [7 sts] Fasten off and sew to body between Rows 3-4. TO FINISH Using Paper White, make a large French knot where you wish the eye to be positioned. You can use the image as a guide. Using Pure Black, embroider a small st in the centre of the French knot. Pin Appliqué over the top of a sleeve on a plain T-shirt. Line up the back of the Dinosaur with the shoulder seam. Once you are happy with the position, sew into place.
Soft lines Create a smart yet cosy silhouette with Pia Thadani’s skirt design
RIBBED SKIRT
xxxx
WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET 47
RIBBED SKIRT
EASY PEASY ARAN WEIGHT
5MM HOOK
Look put-together and feel comfortable at the same time in a classic knee-length skirt. Pair with heels or chunky boots for a more relaxed look.
NOTES YOU WILL NEED Paintbox Simply Aran (100% acrylic, 100g/184m per ball) Vanilla Cream (207) See table for measurements and yarn quantities. Q A 5mm (US H/8) hook Q Non-roll elastic in white or off-white See table for measurements and quantities Q White sewing thread and needle Q Safety pin For yarn contact LoveCrafts 01409 404010 www.lovecrafts.com Q
The main Skirt is worked sideways. To make the Skirt longer or shorter, start with more or fewer chains. This will affect the yarn quantities required. When working the first row of the Waistband, work 1dc in every dc row and 2dc in every tr row. Sizes 16-18 and 24-26 require one extra stitch.
SKIRT Ch82. Row 1 (WS) Tr in back bump of fourth ch from hook and in each ch across, turn. [80 sts] Row 2 (RS) Working in bl only, ch3 (counts as
tr throughout), tr in next st and in each st across to last 20 sts, htr in next 10 sts, dc in final 10 sts, turn. Row 3 Working in bl only, ch1 (does not count as st throughout), dc in first 5 sts, htr in next 10 sts, tr in each st across to end, turn. Row 4 As Row 2. Row 5 Working in bl only, ch3, tr in each st across, turn. Repeat Rows 2-5, 20 [22: 25: 28: 31] times more, then repeat Rows 2-4 once more. Do not Fasten off. [88 (96: 108: 120: 132) rows] WAISTBAND Row 1 (RS) Rotate Skirt to work into row-ends, ch1, work 110 (120: 136: 150: 166) dc evenly spaced across the row-ends, turn (see Pattern Notes). [110 (120: 136: 150: 166) sts] Row 2 (WS) Ch2 (counts as ch-1 sp), skip first st, dc in next st, (skip next st, ch1, dc in next st)
Work the waistband into the row-ends of the skirt fabric
TENSION 14 sts and 14 rows to measure 10x10cm (4 x 4in) in double crochet worked into the back loop only using a 5mm hook, or size needed to obtain correct tension
ABBREVIATIONS For a full list, see page 94
a
SIZE TO FIT WAIST b LENGTH*
ELASTIC YARN Waist a: 68.5 (76: 86.5: 96.5: 107)cm, 27 (30: 34: 38: 40)in Length b: 58.5cm, 23in (all sizes) 48 WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET
cm
8-10
12-14
16-18
20-22
24-26
68.5
76
86.5
96.5
107
in
27
30
34
38
42
cm
58.5
58.5
58.5
58.5
58.5
in
23
23
23
23
23
cm
68.5
76
86.5
96.5
107
in
27
30
34
38
42
100g
5
5
6
7
7
To make this pattern easier to follow, we’ve colour-coded the sizing instructions – simply follow the relevant column. *Length is adjustable, but will affect yarn amounts.
RIBBED SKIRT
across to end, turn. [55 (60: 68: 75: 83) dc] Rows 3-14 Ch2 (counts as a ch-1 sp), skip first dc, dc in next ch-1 sp, (skip next dc, ch1, dc in next ch-1 sp) across to end, turn. Row 15 Ch1, dc in each ch-1 sp and in each dc across. [110 (120: 136: 150: 166) sts] Fasten off leaving a very long tail.
The length of the skirt is determined by how many foundation chains are made
ADD ELASTIC Fold Waistband down so that Row 15 lines up with Row 1 on the WS. Using a tapestry needle and the long tail, sew Row 15 to Row 1 to create a casing for the elastic. Do not weave in end. Attach a safety pin to the end of the elastic and insert into the Waistband casing. Overlap the ends of the elastic by 2.5cm (1in) and sew together. Pick up yarn again and sew Waistband closed around elastic. TO FINISH Work the seam/slit as follows: hold the edges of the Skirt with RS together. Working through sides, join yarn with ss in first st, closest to Waistband, (ss, ch1) in each st across. Stop at the point where you would like a slit to begin, or continue to the end for no slit. Fasten off and weave in all ends.
SIMPLE STEPS HOW TO SEW SEAMS
1 Sewing with a tapestry needle is the regular and neat way to join seams. Place 2 pieces of crochet WS together and oversew them as shown above, using a tapestry or yarn needle.
2 To slip stitch a seam, place the crochet pieces RS together. *Insert hook through both edge stitches, yrh, pull through to complete 1 slip stitch; rep from *, keeping your work fairly loose.
3 For a dc seam, place the crochet pieces RS together, or WS together for a visible seam. Work as for slip stitch seam, using double crochet instead of slip stitch.
4 A useful variation on the dc seam, the dc and chain seam is used when you need less bulk and/or greater flexibility in your seam. Work as for the dc seam, but work 1 dc and 1 chain alternately.
WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET 49
Some things may have changed at your local yarn shop. But B the best things never will.
There’s always T someone who listens
There’ll always be a warm welcome
Always helpful and expert advice
And things you just can’t put a price on
Things may have changed. There’s social distancing, hand sanitisers and face masks. But rest assured your local yarn shop will be working hard to keep you safe and still provide the personal service that you’ve always loved. You can chat about a project. Pick up some useful advice. Join your shops virtual craft group. Invest in a stash for the future and much, much more. Visit www.ukhandknitting.com QG \RXU ORFDO VKRS DQG HQMR\ D UHDO JRRG \DUQ
YOUR LOCAL YARN SHOP IS STILL HERE FOR YOU. With thanks to: Emma Varnam for the welcoming rabbit from Cute Crocheted Animals. The listening ear shell is from a crochet pattern by Anna Sakhno. The wise owl is by Marken of The Hat & I and the heart is by Tatyana Grigoryan.
LOOP STITCH CUSHION
Finishing touch Marianne Rawlins’ North African-inspired design complements neutral interiors
try loop stitch
WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET 51
LOOP STITCH CUSHION
EASY PEASY ARAN WEIGHT
4MM HOOK
The strong design of this monochrome cushion will look fabulous among pale shades, but also would pack a punch against bright pink or turquoise!
NOTES YOU WILL NEED West Yorkshire Spinners The Croft Aran (100% wool, 100g/166m) 4 skeins of Yarn A Sullom 4 skeins of Yarn B Voxter Q A 4mm (US G/6) hook Q Cushion insert, 60x60cm For yarn stockists contact WY Spinners 01535 664500 www.wyspinners.com Q
Cushion is made up of 2 Panels, which are joined together at the end. There is a Chart on page 97, which you will need to refer to when making the Front. Each small square represents 1dc on all RS rows and 1 lp st on all WS rows. Read RS rows from right to left and WS rows from left to right. Change colour on the final yrh of st before colour change is indicated and carry unused strand across the top of your sts, enclosing it as you work.
TENSION
CUSHION
14 sts and 14 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over double crochet using a 4mm hook, or size needed to obtain correct tension
FRONT Using Yarn A, ch87. Row 1 (RS) Dc in second ch from hook, dc in each ch to end, turn. [86 sts] Row 2 (WS) Ch1 (does not count as st throughout) lp in each st to end, turn. Row 3 Ch1, dc in each st across, turn. Row 4 As Row 2. Rows 5-6 Rep Rows 3-4. Change to Yarn B. Rows 7-8 As Rows 3-4. Change to Yarn A. Rows 9-12 Rep Rows 3-4. Change to Yarn B. Rows 13-14 Rep Rows 3-4. Change to Yarn A. Rows 15-22 Rep Rows 3-4. Refer to the Chart on page 97 for Rows 23-38. Work up to the 27th st, then work the repeated section 3 times more before ending with the final 11 sts. The first 2 rows have been written out to guide you. Row 23 Ch1, dc in first st, *change to Yarn B, dc in next 4 sts, change to Yarn A, dc in next 12 sts; rep from * 4 times more, change to Yarn B, dc in next 4 sts, change to Yarn A, dc in final st, turn. Row 24 Ch1, lp in first st, *change to Yarn B, lp in next 4 sts, change to Yarn A, lp in next 12 sts; rep from * 4 times more, change to Yarn B, lp in next 4 sts, change to Yarn A, lp in final st, turn. Rows 25-38 Cont in pattern set, referring to the Chart for all colour changes. Work All RS rows as dc sts and all WS rows as lp sts. Rows 39-48 Using Yarn A, rep Rows 3-4. Rows 49-64 As Rows 23-38, using the Chart for all colour changes. Rows 65-72 Using Yarn A, rep Rows 3-4. Rows 73-74 Using Yarn B, rep Rows 3-4. Rows 75-78 Using Yarn A, rep Rows 3-4. Rows 79-80 Using Yarn B, rep Rows 3-4. Rows 81-86 Using Yarn A, rep Rows 3-4. Fasten off and weave in ends.
MEASUREMENTS Cushion measures approx 65x65cm (25x25in)
ABBREVIATIONS lp (loop st) Insert hook in next st, wrap yarn around the index finger on your yarn-holding hand, catch both threads below finger with hook and pull both loops through, yrh, pull through all 3 loops on hook, remove loop from finger For a full list, see page 94
SAVE OR SPLURGE For a more budget-friendly make, try Stylecraft Life Aran, 4 balls of each: Yarn A Cream (2305) Yarn B Charcoal (2323) For yarn stockists contact www.stylecraft-yarns.co.uk
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The back of the cushion is a simple construction of double crochet in Yarn B
Loop stitch may use more yarn than flat stitches, but results in a textured, tactile fabric
The first few, and the last few, rows are stripes, which enhance the diamonds
BACK Using Yarn B, ch87. Row 1 (RS) Dc in second ch from hook, dc in each ch to end, turn. [8 6sts] Row 2 Ch1, dc in each st across, turn. Rows 3-86 As Row 2. Fasten off and weave in ends. TO MAKE UP Place Back and Front sections together with RS facing outwards. Join Yarn B in corner of both Panels and work all sts of next round through both sides to join. Round 1 (RS) Ch1, (3dc into corner, dc into each st or row end to next corner) 4 times, ss to beg dc. Fasten off and weave in ends.
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GOOD READ
When Kristen designs garments she considers what impact it will have on the wearer’s emotions
designing by intuition Crochet garment designer Kristen TenDyke tells us how important it is for her to really ‘feel’ a design to get it just right… ometimes it’s easy to just focus on the look or colours of our crochet garments we make, but have you ever planned a project by thinking how it will make you feel when you wear it? Kristen TenDyke approaches her design process by really considering how a piece will not only visually or physically feel, but also how it will impact on your emotions. By tapping into these feelings, she is able to use her technical skills and experience to bring about a magical mixture that creates elegant, wearable and simply stunning designs. I was lucky enough to speak to her all about it.
S
IT ALL STARTED WITH DESIGN Kristen’s career with yarn started when she worked for Classic Elite Yarns in 2005 as a graphic designer and technical editor. Her 54 WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET
experience there led her to start designing for books, magazines, yarn companies and she self publishes too. Kristen was taught to crochet by her mum as a child but didn’t know patterns existed until she began working in the world of yarn. “My mom instilled the idea that I could create what I imagined. When I learned to write patterns, a new world opened up, where I could share what I imagined with other crafters, so they could make it too.” In 2014 Kristen made the shift from full-time technical editor to full-time designer and is incredibly successful for obvious reasons; her designs cry out to be made, worn and loved. You might have spotted Kristen’s chevron cardigan in issue 103 of Simply Crochet and I was fascinated to hear about her inspiration for it. “I was considering how points have a confidence to them, as opposed to the
softness of curves. I played around with some chevron shaping, and found a stitch pattern that I loved.” From there, she and editor Sara chose a colour palette that reflected that confidence Kristen found in the points and the design was set! BRINGING A DESIGN TO LIFE Kristen explains her approach to design in such a relatable way. “As I’m conceptualising a new sweater design, I can imagine how it feels on my body. I can feel if the sleeves are long or short; if there’s texture, or if it’s smooth; how deep the neckline is; or where the hem falls on the body; if there’s waist shaping, et cetera…” Kristen’s method makes perfect sense because I know we all not only want to make beautiful-looking garments, but we want to feel good in them too. Then she describes the magical part:
GOOD READ
“The sweater is just there, and I’m drawing the picture, choosing the stitch pattern to match the way it feels and adding up all the numbers to make the pattern create the same thing I’m feeling. I’m just manifesting what’s already there.” To be able to recreate a feeling in yarn that translates to a makable pattern is some kind of talent! Over the years Kristen has tried to design with others in mind but finds it doesn’t work. Unless she can ‘feel’ the design it has something missing. So all of her ideas are designed for herself but not in the sense of her body size and shape, but for the “psychological and emotional state that I feel when wearing the sweater”. It’s such a sensitive and intuitive way of designing that shows great care and thought. A SEAMLESS EXPERIENCE Alongside the emotional aspect of the design, Kristen is always striving to think of ingenious new methods of construction to push the boundaries of design (and also make life easier for us!) with seamless methods. “While I was working as a tech editor, I read and virtually made hundreds of patterns. I learned a lot about sweater construction, and the shape and size of an adult female body. At some point along the way, I got bored with the standard back, front, sleeves, sew-them-up construction, that I started challenging myself to come up with other ways to get the same shape.” The process for seamless crochet is an ongoing project for Kristen though as it’s
not as simple as it may seem, “because RS and WS rows often look different with crochet, and switching from working in the round to back and forth appears visually different. I’m still working on it.” THE IMPORTANCE OF YARN Another incredibly important part of bringing a design to life to Kristen is the
“As I’m conceptualising a new sweater design, i can imagine how it feels on my body” responsibility of the choice of yarn. She established Caterpillar Knits, a collection of patterns for eco-conscious crafters to encourage and support people to choose yarns that are not cruel to animals or people involved in creating it. Not only does this help the earth but Kristen feels it makes for a much better feel of garment too. “When
things are made with less of a manmade influence, in terms of processing and chemicals, it simply feels more like its original form, more like the nature that it came from. I’m sensitive to it, and can notice the difference between unprocessed, undyed wool and bleached acrylic. One feels alive and the other, well…doesn’t.” Kristen would advise everyone to explore the yarns they use by first researching where the yarn comes from. Then think: “Is it made primarily by machines, or by the hard-working hands of real people? Has it travelled far to get to you, or was it made in your rhetorical back yard? Consider the processing that the fibre goes through – is it scoured by chemicals to be smoother and whiter, or is it minimally processed?” If in doubt, you can always ask the yarn company for information, to make the best choice for you and the earth too. As we think more about looking after ourselves and our environment, Kristen’s thoughtful, technical designs and approach to yarn make her an inspiration for us all. Written by Hannah Cross
A few of her favourite things When Kristen doesn’t have a hook in her hand…
“When I’m not busy designing or homeschooling my children, I love to spend time in a nearby forest with my young boys, read paranormal fantasy and dabble in yarn spinning and dyeing. Find out more about Kristen at www.kristentendyke.com
WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET 55
CHEVRON BAG
Acute bag You’ll be going places with this neat design by Carol Ibbetson
h make wirtn 10g ya balls
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CHEVRON BAG
GO PRO 4PLY WEIGHT
3.5MM HOOK
We love the dynamic angled lines of this oh-so smart bag. Its striking looks mean it can hold its own at many occasions, completing your outfit with ease.
NOTES YOU WILL NEED Scheepjes Catona (100% cotton, 10g/25m) 3 balls of Yarn A Lime Juice (392) 4 balls of each: Yarn B Lime (512) Yarn D Vivid Blue (146) 6 balls of Yarn C Cyan (397) Q A 3.5mm (US E/4) hook Q A fat quarter of plastic-coated lining fabric (approx 50x56cm) Q A sheet of plastic mesh to reinforced base and sides, (34x27cm) Q Stitch markers Q Triangle wooden handles, 18cm wide x 12cm deep (available from www.coolwool.net) For yarn stockists contact Scheepjes www.scheepjes.com/en Q
TENSION 18 sts and 20 rows measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over double crochet with yarn held double using a 3.5mm hook, or size needed to obtain correct tension
MEASUREMENTS Bag measures approx 18x23cm (7x9in)
ABBREVIATIONS edc (extended double crochet) Insert hook in st indicated, yrh and pull up a loop, yrh and pull through 1 loop, yrh and pull through 2 loops For a full list, see page 94
Bag uses 10g balls to minimise yarn wastage. The yarn is held double throughout. Bag is worked in the round from the top down, using increases and decreases to make the chevron shape. At the end of each round, join with a ss into the first st of the round and turn. Once the bottom of the ‘V’ is reached, the triangular left and right corners are then worked separately by working down one side of the front ‘V’, across the bottom of the Bag and up the opposite side of the ’V’ on the back of the Bag.
The bag is worked from the top down, so the base is worked after the sides are complete
BAG Using one strand of Yarn A and B held together, ch108, ss to first ch to join, being careful not to twist the chain. Round 1 (RS) Ch1 (does not count as st throughout), *4edc (half of short side), pm, dc2tog, 20dc, 2dc in next st, pm (point of V), 2dc in next st, 20dc, dc2tog, pm, 4edc (half of short side edge); rep from * once more, ss to beg st, turn. [108 sts] Round 2 (WS) Ch1, *4edc, move marker up, dc2tog, 20dc, 2dc in next st, move marker up, 2dc in next st, 20dc, dc2tog, move marker up, 4edc* rep from * once more, ss to beg edc, turn. Rounds 3-8 Repeat Round 2 six times more, turning at the end of each Round. [8 Rounds worked using Yarn A and B]. Fasten off Yarn A and join Yarn C. Rounds 9-16 Repeat Round 2 eight times more. [8 Rounds worked using Yarn B and C]. Fasten off Yarn B and join Yarn D. Rounds 17-24 Repeat Round 2 eight times more. [8 Rounds worked using Yarn C and D]. CORNER TRIANGLES The rest of the Bag is worked using Yarn C and D held together throughout. You will work down one side of the V as before, then chain over to the back of the Bag to create a base and work the second half of the V on the back. Move markers as before. See photo on page 58.
Though worked in the round, the piece is turned each round, creating a faux seam
4edc) twice, ss to beg st, turn. [52 sts] Round 4 Ch1, (4edc, dc2tog, 14dc, dc2tog, 4edc) twice, ss to beg st, turn. [48 sts] Round 5 Ch1, (4edc, dc2tog, 12dc, dc2tog, 4edc) twice, ss to beg st, turn. [44 sts] Round 6 Ch1, (4edc, dc2tog, 10dc, dc2tog, 4edc) twice, ss to beg st, turn. [40 sts] Round 7 Ch1, (4edc, dc2tog, 8dc, dc2tog, 4edc) twice, ss to beg st, turn. [36 sts] Round 8 Ch1, (4edc, dc2tog, 6dc, dc2tog, 4edc) twice, ss to beg st, turn. [32 sts] Round 9 Ch1, (4edc, dc2tog, 4dc, dc2tog, 4edc) twice, ss to beg st, turn. [28 sts] Round 10 Ch1, (4edc, dc2tog, 2dc, dc2tog, 4edc) twice, ss to beg st, turn. [24 sts] Round 11 Ch1, (4edc, dc2tog, dc2tog, 4edc) twice, ss to beg st, turn. [20 sts] Round 12 Ch1, (4edc, dc2tog, 4edc) twice, ss to beg st. [18 sts] Fasten off leaving a long tail. The tail will be in the centre of the bottom edge of the Bag. With RS facing, use a tapestry needle and a whip st seam to join the edges. Weave in all ends.
SECOND CORNER FIRST CORNER Round 1 (RS) Ch1, 4edc, dc2tog, 20dc, ss in next st (bottom of V), ch8, skip 56 sts, ss in the same st on opposite side of Bag, 20dc along the V opposite the side already worked, dc2tog, 4edc, ss to beg st, turn. [60 sts] Round 2 (WS) Ch1, 4edc, dc2tog, 18dc, dc2tog [over next dc and ss], 1edc in each ch of ch-8 at the base of the Bag, dc2tog [over ss and next dc on other side], 18dc, dc2tog, 4edc, ss to beg st, turn. [56 sts] Round 3 (RS) Ch1, (4edc, dc2tog, 16dc, dc2tog,
With RS facing, join Yarns C and D with a ss in the fifth edc along the other side panel of the Bag to work the second corner. Round 1 (RS) Ch1, edc in same st, 3edc, dc2tog, 20dc, dc2tog over the next dc and the space where the first Corner Triangle joins, 1edc in opposite side of each ch of ch-8 at the base of the Bag, dc2tog over the join and the first dc, 20dc along the V opposite, dc2tog, 4edc, ss to beg st, turn. [60 sts] Round 2 (WS): Ch1, 4edc, dc2tog, 18dc, dc2tog, 8edc, dc2tog, 18dc, dc2tog, 4edc, ss in first st to WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET 57
CHEVRON BAG
join, turn. [56 sts] Rounds 3-12 Work as for first corner. TO MAKE UP Weave in ends. Turn the Bag inside out. Cut 1 section of plastic mesh approx 17x3cm or size to fit along the base of the Bag. Round off the corners with scissors. Sew carefully around the edge of the mesh using Yarn C or D to attach to the inside of the base of the Bag. Cut 2 sections of plastic mesh approx 18x13cm or size to fit along the side edge of the Bag from the base to approx 1cm below the bottom of the V. Round off the corners with scissors, making sure the width of the bottom of the mesh matches up with the width of the mesh on the base of the Bag. Sew carefully around the edge of the mesh using Yarn C or D to attach to the sides. Measure up your lining against the Bag. Join into a tube which fits around the width of the Bag with a seam allowance and stitch the seam. Sew a seam along the bottom of the tube. Fold the Corner Triangles in to make a base the width of the Bag. Turn the Bag the right way out. This can be tricky but the plastic will bend without breaking so don’t worry.
Chevrons are created in the fabric by increasing and decreasing stitches
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LONG HANDLE OPTIONAL Using Yarn A and B held together tightly ch150. Fasten off and join each end of the ch on the inside of the side edges of the Bag approx 3cm down from the top and sew firmly in place. Insert the lining and cut the ‘V’ shapes out at the front and the back leaving 1cm to turn down around the V. Sew around the top of the lining to attach to the Bag. ATTACH WOODEN HANDLES Align Handles with top opening of Bag. Pin in place and using Yarn A and B held together sew the handles securely to the Bag.
A chain joins the chevrons, then the base is made in two parts either side of the chain
TOP EDGING Join Yarn A and B held together with a ss to the first st to work along the edge between the Handles. Dc in each st across to the last st before the second Handle is joined, ss in the last st. Fasten off and weave in ends. Repeat for the other side edge.
The wooden handles have holes, which makes it easy to attach to your crochet work
GARLAND
Bit of pizazz Liven up a dull corner with Emma Leith’s highly decorated garland design
simple and stunning
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GARLAND
EASY PEASY 4PLY WEIGHT
3.5MM HOOK
The embellishment detail provides all the power in these fun baubles. Use up scraps to create your colour scheme, or get shades that will suit your interior.
NOTES YOU WILL NEED Knitting Fever Teenie Weenie Wool (75% wool, 25% polyamide/nylon, 10g/40m) 1 ball each of: Ecru (01) Charcoal (05) Sky (27) Violet (23) Jade (34) Chartreuse (31) Zircon (28) Fuchsia (17) Pumpkin (12) Gold (11) Q A 3.5mm (US E/4) hook Q Tapestry Needle Q Toy stuffing For yarn stockists contact Knitting Fever www.knittingfever.com Q
TENSION Tension is not critical for this project, but it may affect the yarn quantities required
MEASUREMENTS Large Bauble measure approx 7.5cm (3in) in diameter Small Bauble measure approx 4cm (1 in) in diameter Tiny Bead measure approx 2cm ( in) in diameter
ABBREVIATIONS
Each Bauble is made up of 2 Motifs. The Baubles can be made in any colour combinations, but work the 2 Motifs in the same colours so that they match.
GARLAND LARGE MOTIF MAKE 2 PER BAUBLE Using any colour, make magic loop. Round 1 (RS) Ch3 (counts as tr throughout), 11tr in loop, ss to top of beg ch-3 to join. [12 tr] Round 2 (RS) Ch3, 1tr in st at base of ch-3, 2tr in each st around, ss to top of beg ch-3 to join. [24 tr] Fasten off. Round 3 Join new colour in any st with a ss, ch1 (does not count as st), dc in same st, ch2, skip next st, (dc in next st, ch2, skip next st) 11 times, ss to first dc to join. [12 dc, 12 ch-sps] Fasten off. Round 4 Join new colour in any ch-2 sp, ch2 (counts as first htr), 1htr in skipped tr below in Round 2, 1htr in same ch-2 sp, (htr in next ch-2 sp, htr in skipped tr below in Round 2, htr in same ch-2 sp) 11 times, ss to top of beg ch-2 to join. Fasten off. Embellish each Motif with your choice of simple embroidery stitches before joining 2 Motifs in the next round. Round 5 Hold 2 Motifs with WS facing. Align stitches to work into the spaces between the 3htr groups. Join new yarn in any space between groups, ch2 (counts as htr), 4htr in same space, 5htr in each space around, filling with toy stuffing before working the final stitches, ss to top of beg ch-2 to join. Fasten off and weave in ends.
Before working the final stitches of the outer seam, pad out the baubles with toy stuffing
Embroider large baubles after Round 4 before joining the motifs in Round 5
Add tiny beads between each bauble, made using the same pattern as the baubles
For a full list, see page 94 SMALL MOTIF MAKE 2 PER BAUBLE Rounds 1-2 Work as Rounds 1-2 of Large Bauble. [24 tr] Embellish each Motif with your choice of simple embroidery stitches before joining 2 Motifs. To join, hold 2 Motifs with WS facing and sew though the back loops only of each side filling with toy stuffing before the last few stitches are worked. Fasten off and weave in ends. TINY BEAD MAKE 2 PER BEAD Make 1 using Black and 1 using White. Round 1 Work as Round 1 of Large Bauble. [12 tr] Fasten off. Join as for Small Motifs. Fasten off and weave in ends.
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For the small baubles, work embroidery after Round 2 before joining the motifs
TO FINISH Cut 2 lengths of yarn 100cm long and hold together to be used as one strand. Thread the pieces on in your chosen order. On one end of the strand, ch20 and ss to first ch to make a hanging loop. Fasten off and weave in ends. Make a long tassel using all the colours and attach to opposite end to hanging loop.
FOLK ART BLANKET
Flower bed Claire Goodale’s folk art-inspired blanket is where home and nature unite
xxxx
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FOLK ART BLANKET
A BIT TRICKY DK WEIGHT
5.5MM HOOK
The stunning structured flowers in this design almost resemble figures lining up to perform a dance. You’ll have a merry time hooking up this blanket, but don’t get in a tangle with your yarn!
NOTES YOU WILL NEED King Cole Baby Comfort DK (60% acrylic, 40% nylon, 100g/310m) 6 balls of Cream (585) 3 balls of Jeans (3338) 1 ball of each: Jade (3107) Red (615) Saxe (596) Golden (3108) Rose (3336) Q A 5.5mm (US I/9) hook Q Bobbins (optional) Q Stitch markers For yarn stockists contact King Cole 01756 703670 www.kingcole.com Q
TENSION Tension is not critical for this project, but it may affect the yarn quantities required
MEASUREMENTS Blanket measures 165x152cm (65x59 in)
ABBREVIATIONS For a full list, see page 94
Blanket is worked in rows throughout. There are two Charts on page 96, which you will need to refer to when making the Blanket. Each small square represents 1tr. Read all RS rows from right to left and WS rows from left to right. Change colour on the final yrh of st before colour change is indicated. You can carry the main colour across the top of your sts, enclosing it as you work. For the colours used on the flower designs, leave the strand hanging on the WS, ready to pick up again on the next row.
BLANKET Using Jeans, ch212. Row 1 (RS) Tr in third ch from hook and each ch across, turn. [210 sts] Row 2 (WS) Ch2 (does not count as st throughout), change to Cream, 5-tr cl in next st, *change to Jeans, tr in next 4 sts, change to Jeans, 5-tr cl in next 2 sts; rep from * 33 times more, change to Jeans, tr in next 4 sts, change to Cream, 5-tr cl in final st, change to Jeans, turn. Row 3 Ch2, tr in each st across, turn. Row 4 Ch2, tr in first st, change to Cream, 5-tr cl in next, *change to Jeans, tr in next 2 sts, change to Cream, 5-tr cl in next st; rep from * 68 times more, change to Jeans, tr in final st, turn. Row 5 As Row 3. Row 6 Ch2, tr in first 2 sts, change to Cream, 5-tr cl in next 2 sts, *change to Jeans, tr in next 4 sts, change to Cream, 5-tr cl in next 2 sts; rep from * 33 times more, change to Jeans, tr in final 2 sts, turn. Row 7 As Row 3.
Change to Cream. Rows 8-11 As Row 3. Follow Flower Chart 1 on page 96 for Rows 12-44. The Chart is repeated 5 times across each row. Stitch markers will be placed in the next row to show charted area. Move the markers up as you work. Row 12 Ch2, tr in first 18 sts, *pm in prev st to mark start of Chart, tr in next 8 sts, change to Golden, tr in next 6 sts, change to Cream, tr in next 9 sts, pm in prev st to mark end of Chart, tr in next 15 sts; rep from * 4 times, tr in final 2 sts, turn. Row 13 Ch2, *tr in each st to marker, tr in marked st and next 8 sts, *change to Golden, tr in next st, change to Jeans, tr in next 4 sts, change to Golden, tr in next st, change to Cream, tr in next 9 sts, move markers up; rep from * across to end, turn. Rows 14-44 Cont in patt set, following Chart for all colour changes. Fasten off all colours except Cream. Rows 45-48 As Row 3. Change to Jeans. Rows 49-54 As Row 3. Follow Flower Chart 2 on page 96 for Rows 55-67. The Chart is repeated 6 times across each row. Stitch markers will be placed in the next row to show charted area. Move the markers up as you work. Row 55 Ch2, tr in first 10 sts, *pm in prev st to mark start of Chart, tr in next 2 sts, change to Rose, tr in next 2 sts, change to Jeans, tr in next st, change to Rose, tr in next 5 sts, change to Jeans, tr in next st, change to Rose, tr in next 2 sts, change to Jeans, tr in next 3 sts, pm in prev st to mark end of Chart, tr in next 19 sts; rep from * 5 times more omitting final 10 sts, turn. Rows 56-67 Cont in patt set, following Chart for all colour changes. Fasten off all colours except Jeans. Rows 68-73 As Row 3. Change to Cream. Rows 74-77 As Row 3.
SIMPLE STEPS HOW TO CHANGE COLOUR IN ROWS
1 Start working the last stitch of the last row of the old colour, but stop before you work the final yrh of the stitch. Cut off the old yarn, leaving a tail about 10cm long.
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2 Now loop your new yarn colour around the hook, leaving a long tail of yarn (about 10cm long).
3 Pull the new yarn loop through the remaining 2 loops to finish off the stitch. Pull the old and new yarn ends to tighten the loop on the hook.
4 Now you can work the turning chain of the new row in the new colour (for example, 3ch for treble, or 2ch for half treble). Then work the stitches of the new row in the new yarn colour.
FOLK ART BLANKET
For Rows 78-110 work from Flower Chart 1. Instead of reading from the bottom up, follow the Chart from the final row down. The first row has been written out to guide you. Row 78 Ch2, tr in first 18 sts, *pm in prev st to mark start of Chart, tr in next 6 sts, change to Red, tr in next 3 sts, change to Cream, tr in next st, change to Red, tr in next 2 sts, change to Cream, tr in next st, change to Red, tr in next 3 sts, change to Cream, tr in next 7 sts, pm in prev st to mark end of Chart, tr in next 15 sts; rep from * 4 times more, tr in final 2 sts, turn. Rows 79-110 Cont in patt set, following Chart for all colour changes. Fasten off all colours except Cream. Rows 111-114 As Row 3. Change to Jeans. Row 115 As Row 3. Change to Cream. Row 116 Ch2, 5-tr cl in first st, *change to Jeans, tr in next 4 sts, change to Cream, 5-tr cl in next 2 sts; rep from * 33 times more, change to Jeans, tr in next 4 sts, change to Cream, 5-tr cl in final st, turn. Change to Jeans.
Row 117 As Row 3. Row 118 Ch2, tr in first st, change to Cream, 5-tr cl in next st, *change to Jeans, tr in next 2 sts, change to Jean, 5-tr cl in next st; rep from * 68 times more, change to Jeans, tr in final st, turn. Row 119 As Row 3. Row 120 Ch2, tr in first 2 sts, change to Cream, 5-tr cl in next 2 sts, *change to Jeans, tr in next 4 sts, change to Cream, 5-tr cl in next 2 sts; rep from * 33 times more, change to Jeans, tr in final 2 sts, turn. Row 121 As Row 3. Fasten off and weave in ends.
Work rows of white 5-treble cluster stitches into the border for a fun, textured look
At colour changes, leave yarn strands at the back of the work to pick up on the next row
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GOOD READ
yarn life
We’re finding new ways to stay connected and inspired
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GOOD READ
Clockwise from top left: Wool on the Exe shop interior; Ilaria, and one of her amigurumi toys; an example of Wool on the Exe’s virtual meetings
T
his may be the year we all stayed in, but it hasn’t interrupted our adventures in crochet. Hooksters the world over have been crafting together online thanks to the wonders of technology. The internet has long been an incredible resource for makers, but recent restrictions have prompted all kinds of innovations. It’s now a more inclusive and inspiring space than ever. Here are a few of our favourite digital crochet happenings… SOCIAL STITCHING The team from local Devonshire yarn store Wool on the Exe were determined to support their regulars when in-person events became a no-go. “Community is our very reason for being,” staff member Ella told us. “We were devastated when we had to cancel our events, although we understood the importance of doing so. We knew we had to find ways to connect more online. One way was to host our Friday afternoon drop-in group as a Zoom meeting. We also set up Facebook groups linked to the shop page, as well as hosting virtual make-alongs.” It’s Wool on the Exe’s regular video meet-ups via Zoom that seem to have met a real need in the community. For participant Laura, they’re a lifeline and a highlight in her week. “The laughter, love and support that
we had at our meetings in the shop are mirrored virtually, with the added bonus of being able to include extra friends who weren’t able to always be there in person.” The yarn shop has now decided to make these weekly catch-ups a permanent fixture. “The sense of community is fantastic,” Ella confirmed. “Even when we’re able to resume in-person groups, we’ll keep the online group running as we’re reaching people who might not be able to make it into the shop. We love being able to share our passion for yarn crafts, checking in with each other and having a laugh together.” TAKE ON A CHALLENGE It’s not just video calls keeping crocheters motivated. Some of our favourite apps can play host to new opportunities for sharing. Designer Ilaria Caliri has been taking to Instagram to encourage amigurumi enthusiasts, running AmiguruMay. “It’s a photo challenge that takes place throughout May,” Ilaria explained. “Participants share one post a day following prompts, all related to yarn and amigurumi – crochet toys! There are no rules and no patterns to follow. You play with the daily prompt, sharing what’s comfortable for you, using the hashtag #amigurumay. It celebrates everything we love about amigurumi.”
As well as being a fun, low-pressure way to stay creative, there’s a social aspect to these challenges that Ilaria adores. “It’s a way to hang out with other makers from around the globe. Crochet is solitary, but there’s a lovely online community that’s welcoming and happy to share little tricks and e-meet new hooksters. The daily theme helps spark conversations with new people.” The secret? Don’t ‘post and ghost’, get involved! “Jump into the AmiguruMay party, browse the hashtags or follow them to see posts on your feed. Like and leave comments on other #AmiguruMay posts. I’ve discovered lots of new Instagram accounts and the lovely people behind them; some of them have become real friends.” KEEP LEARNING No in-person workshops and classes? No problem. There’s a number of dedicated tutors facilitating online learning instead, ironing out the logistics and helping crocheters take their skills to the next level. Yarn crafter Martyn Wait recently took a class with tutor Gaëlle of Gaëlle In Wales to conquer colour-changing granny strips. “This one-to-one lesson took place over Zoom where both Gaëlle and I set up two cameras, one to see each other’s faces and the other to see our hands and crochet. I propped my WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET 65
GOOD READ Clockwise from left: Martyn’s completed granny strips; some of the dishcloth donations Yarndale received to help raise money for their chosen charity, which will be sold at Yarndale 2021; The Crochet Project’s Facebook page where advice is shared and triumphs are celebrated
phone up so Gaëlle could see my hands and used my iPad so that I could see her. I was able to chat easily and demonstrate the technique I wanted help with.” It seems this style of learning has all the benefits of face-to-face classes, and then some extras. “I really enjoyed the convenience of having a lesson remotely,” Martyn told us. “Being able to have my lesson at home saved both of us travel time and the use of video calling didn’t detract from being able to learn. I’d happily take more lessons remotely in future.” A DIGITAL BUSINESS In the face of 2020’s uncertainly, crafters have begun using their creativity to generate income. Selling handmade goods is one approach, but it can be done purely digitally, too. Joanne Scrace and Kat Goldin of The Crochet Project have launched online classes for pattern sellers. “We hope to help those people who are ready to make the leap post-redundancy, or to escape from insecure jobs,” Joanne told us. “Our classes are aimed at everyone who’d like to get paid for writing up their crochet ideas. From enthusiasts who want to turn their hobby into a business, to crochet experts who want to get even more professional. The Self Publishing Toolkit takes everything we’ve learnt over the past decade of releasing patterns and distils it into an accessible training course. Our classes are all pre-recorded and available to watch as many times as you like after purchase.” Joanne and Kat are committed to sharing their knowledge, so The Self Publishing Toolkit is set to grow. “We have a Facebook group for class participants to share their concerns and successes. The reaction has been fantastic, and we’re hoping to expand the range of courses. Look out for classes on garment construction, shawl design and grading in the future.” FESTIVAL SEASON The big yarn shows are often highlights in the calendar for crocheters: a chance to meet pals from afar, shop indie yarns in person and take a workshop from an admired designer. Like all our best-loved means of crochet connectivity, these events have gone online too. You’ll have seen virtual yarn fairs cropping up on social media, blog hops galore, and the big players such as The Knitting and Stitching Show and Yarndale pivoting to digital. Carole at Yarndale filled us in on what became Yarndale@Home 2020. “We had a wide range of online platforms for visitors – from the exhibitor videos, Instagram Lives, the how-to section and talks organised by Scheepjes and hosted by Matt from 66 WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET
@boyandbunting.” A whopping 11,000 visitors from around the world were able to attend. It marks a change in the way organisers think about events. “We’ve had such great feedback from visitors and exhibitors and feel it reached worldwide, including an extra audience who wouldn’t have been able to participate. We’ll be doing something similar to Yarndale@Home online alongside the physical show in 2021 to allow those who are unable to visit the show in North Yorkshire take part.” As a crocheter, you’re part of a global network of yarn crafters and there’s never been more ways to stay connected and enrich your crochet journey. Crochet-alongs, challenges, digital fairs and festivals, webinars, workshops, classes and virtual meet-ups, try them out so we can stay in touch and keep hooking. All you have to do is log on and join in. Written by Becca Parker www.woolontheexe.com Ilaria Caliri: www.airalidesign.com www.gaelleinwales.com www.thecrochetproject.com www.yarndale.co.uk
0 1o ln Cr c Et e En s JAN Maud Akkermans Patchwork Blanket CAL begins at @maud__akkermans The Secret Crocheter CALendar Blanket CAL begins www.thesecretcrocheter.com FEB 27th Chunky Crochet Basket online class www.adventuresincrafting.co.uk MAY Ilaria Caliri’s Instagram challenge #amigurumay at @airali_gray AUG 15th Granny Square Day SEPT 25-26th Yarndale@Home, or join their monthly craft club www.yarndale.co.uk Instagram challenge #yarnfriendsrock www.unicornpuffsandrainbows.com
SHELL STITCH SHAWL
Denim days Wear the winter sky with a lightweight shawl by Elisabeth Davis de Herraiz
shell and picot stitch
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SHELL STITCH SHAWL
EASY PEASY 4PLY WEIGHT
3.5MM HOOK
When you just want a little something extra to cover your shoulders or drape artfully about your neck, a shawl is what you need. Enough fabric will show through the open stitches to create a pleasing effect.
NOTES YOU WILL NEED Rico Superba Poems Superwash (75% wool, 25% polyamide, 100g/420m) 1 ball of Denim (004) Q A 3.5mm (US E/4) hook For yarn stockists contact Rico Design www.rico-design.co.uk Q
TENSION 15 sts and 7 rows measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over tr using a 3.5mm hook or size needed to obtain correct tension
MEASUREMENTS 127cm long x 70cm wide (50x27 in)
ABBREVIATIONS shell (2tr, ch2, 2tr) in same st/sp picot Ch3, ss to third ch from hook For a full list, see page 94
Shawl is worked in rows throughout. A border is worked down the sides of Shawl at the end.
Work a pretty, lightweight, three-row border around two sides of the triangle
SHAWL Row 1 (RS) Ch5, (counts as tr and ch-2), tr in fourth ch from hook and next ch, turn. [3 tr] Row 2 (WS) Ch3 (counts as tr throughout), tr in next st, 3tr in last st, turn. [5 tr] Row 3 Ch3, 2tr in st at base of ch-3, tr in each st across, turn. [7 tr] Row 4 Ch3, (tr in next st, ch1, skip next st) twice, tr in next st, 3tr in last st, turn. [7tr, 2 ch-1 sps] Row 5 Ch3, 2tr in st at base of ch-3, tr in next 3 sts, skip next ch-sp, shell in next tr, skip next ch-sp, tr in next 2 sts, turn. [8 tr, 1 shell st] Row 6 Ch3, tr in next st, ch1, skip next 2 sts, tr in ch-2 sp of shell, ch1, skip next 2 sts, (tr in next st, ch1, skip next st) twice, tr in next st, 3tr in last st, turn. [9 tr, 4 ch-1 sps] Row 7 Ch3, 2tr in st at base of ch-3, tr in next 3 sts, *skip next ch-sp, shell in next tr, skip next ch-sp, tr in next tr; repeat from * across to last st, tr in last st, turn. [9 tr, 2 shell sts] Row 8 Ch3, *tr in next tr, ch1, skip next 2 sts, tr in ch-2 sp of next shell, ch1, skip next 2 sts; repeat from * to last 6 sts, (tr in next st, ch1, skip next st) twice, tr in next st, 3tr in last st, turn. [11 tr, 6 ch-1 sps] Rows 9-68 Repeat Rows 7-8 thirty times. Row 69 (RS) Repeat Row 7. [40 tr, 33 shells] Fasten off. BORDER With RS facing, join yarn in first st of Row 69. Row 1 (RS) Ch3, 2tr in st at base of ch-3, (ch1, skip next st, tr in next st) 3 times, *ch1, skip next
The lacy pattern of the fabric is created from alternating treble stitches and chain spaces
The final row of the decorative border is finished with delicate picot stitches
2 tr, tr in ch-2 sp of next shell, ch1, skip next 2 tr, tr in next st; rep from * across to last st, ch1, 3tr in last st, rotate shawl to work into row ends, (ch1, tr in end of next row) 69 times, ch1, 3tr in first ch of beg ch-5 of Row 1, turn.
SIMPLE STEPS HOW TO MAKE A TREBLE
1 To work a treble crochet, start by winding yrh and then insert the hook under the top 2 loops of the stitch on the previous row.
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2 Wrap the yarn around the hook (yrh), and pull the yarn through the stitch only.
3 You will now have 3 loops on the hook. Yrh again, and draw the yarn through the first 2 loops on the hook.
4 You will now have 2 loops on the hook. Yrh again, and draw the yarn through the remaining 2 loops on the hook. Your treble crochet will be complete.
SHELL STITCH SHAWL
[147 tr and 140 ch-1 sp] Row 2 (WS) Ch3, 2tr in st at base of ch-3, tr in next st, ch5, skip next (tr, ch-1 sp, tr, ch-1 sp), dc in next st, *ch5, skip next (ch-1 sp, tr, ch-1 sp, tr, ch-1 sp), dc in next st; repeat from * 21 times more, ch5, skip next (ch-1 sp, tr, ch-1 sp, tr), dc in next tr (centre tr of point), ch5, skip next (tr, ch-1 sp, tr, ch-1 sp), dc in next st, **ch5, skip next (ch-1 sp, tr, ch-1 sp, tr, ch-1 sp), dc in next st; repeat from ** 21 times more, ch5, skip next (ch-1 sp, tr, ch-1 sp, tr), tr in next st, 3tr in last st, turn. [8 tr, 47 dc, 48 ch-5 sp] Row 3 Ch1 (does not count as st), dc in first 4 sts, *(3dc, picot, 3dc) in next ch-5 sp, dc in next dc; repeat from * across to centre dc, picot in same dc, **(3dc, picot, 3dc) in next ch-5 sp, dc in next st; repeat from ** across to last 3 sts, dc in each of next 3 tr. [49 picots] Fasten off.
Rico Superba Poems yarn creates a softly striping fabric
TO FINISH Weave in all ends and lightly block.
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BEEHIVE TEA COSY
Queen tea
xxxx amigurumi bees
Photography by James Gardiner © CICO Books
Let the bees on Kate Eastwood’s cosy do all the work and slow down for teatime
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BEEHIVE TEA COSY
A BIT TRICKY 2.5MM 4.5MM
ARAN SPORT
Rather than bees buzzing around the honey pot, with this tea cosy you’ll find all the bees will be buzzing around your teapot! The cosy is a generous size and will comfortably fit up to a 10-cup teapot.
NOTES YOU WILL NEED Q Caron Simply Soft
(100% acrylic, 170g/288m) 2 balls of Yarn A Bone (9703) Q Cascade Ultra Pima Fine (100% cotton, 50g/125m) 1 ball of each: Yarn B Yellow Rose (3743) Yarn C White (3728) Q A 4.5mm (US size 7) hook Q A 2.5mm (US B/1 or C/2) hook Q Stitch marker Q Polyester toy stuffing Q Cotton ribbon, 20cm Q Thin black permanent marker For yarn contact Wool Warehouse 01926 882818 www.woolwarehouse.co.uk
TENSION 19 sts and 16.5 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over double crochet using Caron Simply Soft and a 4.5mm hook, or size needed to obtain correct tension
Main body of Tea Cosy is made of 2 identical Panels, which are joined together at the end. Bees are worked in the amigurumi method. Work stitches in a continuous spiral without closing off each round with a slip stitch. You may find it helpful to mark the first stitch of the round, moving the marker up as you work.
TEA COSY PANEL MAKE 2 Using a 4.5mm hook and Yarn A, ch56. Row 1 (WS) Dc in second ch from hook and each ch across, turn. [55 sts] Row 2 (RS) Ch1 (does not count as st throughout), dc in first 3 sts, (5-tr cl in next st, dc in next 3 sts) 13 times, turn. Row 3 Ch1, dc in each st across, turn. Row 4 Ch1, dc in first 5 sts, (5-tr cl in next st, dc in next 3 sts) 12 times, dc in final 2 sts, turn. Row 5 As Row 3. Rows 6-25 Rep Rows 2-5 another 5 times. Row 26 As Row 2. Row 27 Ch1, (dc2tog) first 2 sts, dc in each st to final 2 sts, (dc2tog) final 2 sts, turn. [53 sts]
Row 28 Ch1, (dc2tog) first 2 sts, dc in next 2 sts, *5-tr cl in next st, dc in next 3 sts; rep from * to final 5 sts, 5-tr cl in next st, dc in next 2 sts, dc2tog. [51 sts] Rows 29-40 Rep Rows 27-28 another 6 times. [27 sts at end of Row 40] Row 41 Ch1, (dc2tog) 13 times, ss in final st, turn. [14 sts] Row 42 Ch1, skip first ss, (dc2tog) 6 times, ss in final st. [7 sts] Fasten off. BEES MAKE 20 Using a 2.5mm hook and Yarn B, make a magic loop. Round 1 (RS) Ch1, 4dc in loop. [4 sts] Round 2 (RS) (Dc in next st, 2dc in next st) twice. [6 sts] Round 3 (Dc in next 2 sts, 2dc in next st) twice. [8 sts] Rounds 4-6 Dc in each st around. Stuff. Round 7 (Dc2tog) 4 times. [4 sts] Fasten off. Using the tail, close the final round. With the marker pen, mark a few stripes around each Bee’s body and mark 2 black dots for eyes.
WINGS (MAKE 20) Using a 2.5mm hook and Yarn C, ch2. Row 1 (RS) (Dc, htr, 2tr, htr, dc) twice into
MEASUREMENTS Tea Cosy measures approx 33cm (13in) diameter and 22cm (8 in) tall
ABBREVIATIONS For a full list, see page 94
This pattern is from Kate Eastwood’s book Crocheted Home (£12.99), published by CICO Books www. rylandpeters.com/ collections/cico-books Beautiful décor ideas
Attach bees randomly on your finished tea cosy
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BEEHIVE TEA COSY
The beehive’s bumpy texture is created with 5-treble cluster stitches
The bees’ bodies are made all in yellow yarn, then black stripes are added with a pen
second ch from hook, ss to beg dc. Fasten off. Fold each Wing in half to make 2 semicircles. Using the tail from the Wing, sew a Wing to the back of each Bee. Pull the tail through to the base of the Bee; this can be used to sew to the Tea Cosy. TO MAKE UP Place Panels together with WS facing out. Sew the side and top edges together, leaving the base open. As you sew the top edges together, place the loop of ribbon inside so the ends are poking out of the top. When you turn the Cosy RS out a loop of ribbon should sit at the top. Turn so RS is facing out. Attach the Bees randomly over the Cosy. Weave in all ends.
SIMPLE STEPS HOW TO WORK A CLUSTER STITCH
1 Start a treble in the next stitch or space in the usual way: yrh, insert hook, yrh, pull loop through (3 loops on hook), yrh, pull through first 2 loops (2 loops on hook). Stop here, without finishing. 72 WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET
2 Start a second treble in the same stitch/space: yrh, insert hook in the same stitch again, yrh, pull loop through (4 loops on hook), yrh and pull through first 2 loops (3 loops on hook). Stop here.
3 Repeat step 2 once more for 3-tr cl, twice for a 4-tr cl and 3 times for a 5-tr cl. Now finish with: yrh, pull loop through all loops on hook.
4 This is how your completed cluster should look. On the next row, you can simply work a stitch into the top of the cluster as usual. Your stitch count should remain the same.
KIDS’ HOODIE
Hug a hoodie Looking cool while keeping warm can be a battle, but Jess Bennett’s design is more than up to the challenge
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KIDS’ HOODIE
A button-up hooded cardigan is a practical garment as the hood can act as a hat, it can be worn open on warmer days and it is easier for a child to remove than a jumper.
A BIT TRICKY DK WEIGHT
4MM HOOK
NOTES Body is worked from bottom up in one piece to armholes. A Rib is worked first back and forth in rows, then rotated and Main Body is worked into row-ends of Rib. Main Body is divided at armholes for Fronts and Back. Sleeves are made separately and sewn on, and a Hood is made separately and sewn with a centre back seam. Edging is added to Fronts and Hood which includes buttonholes. The main stitch pattern is linked treble (ltr), and beg ch-3 for this patt does not count as a st throughout.
YOU WILL NEED Paintbox Yarns Simply DK (100% acrylic, 100g/276m) Yarn A Vanilla Cream (107) Yarn B Royal Blue (140) Yarn C Kingfisher Blue (134) Yarn D Marine Blue (133) Q A 4mm (US G/6) hook Q 8 (8: 8: 9: 9: 9: 9) buttons, 15mm Q Stitch markers For yarn contact LoveCrafts 01409 404010 www.lovecrafts.com Q
Work the button band onto the row-ends of the two front pieces and around to hood
Yarn A, 2 rows in Yarn C, 1 row in Yarn A, 1 row in Yarn D. Fasten off at end of each row. Change to Yarn A and cont in patt until work meas 14.5 (17: 17: 19: 25: 26: 27)cm ending with WS row.
HOODIE BODY
TENSION
RIB
15 sts and 9 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4 in) in linked treble crochet using a 4mm hook, or size needed to obtain this tension
Using Yarn A, ch5, turn. Row 1 (RS) Dc in bl of second ch from hook and in each ch to end, turn. [4 dc] Row 2 Ch1 (does not count as st), dc in bl of each st to end, turn. Repeat Row 2 until 80 (84: 88: 92: 100: 104: 108) rows have been completed. Rotate work 90 degrees to work into row-ends.
ABBREVIATIONS ltr (inked treble) For first st of row, ch3 (does not count as st), insert hook through second ch from hook, yrh, pull up a loop. This loop counts as first yrh of treble stitch; cont with standard tr st inserting hook into st at base of beg ch-3, *insert hook through horizontal bar in middle of previous st, yrh, pull up a loop; counting this loop as first yrh of treble st, cont as for standard treble; rep from * to end of row and do not work in top of beg ch-3 For a full list, see page 94
MAIN BODY Row 1 (WS) Ch1, dc in each row end, turn. [80 (84: 88: 92: 100: 104: 108) dc] Fasten off. Row 2 (RS) Join Yarn B, ch3 (does not count as st throughout), ltr in each st to end, turn. [80 (84: 88: 92: 100: 104: 108) ltr] Rows 3-4 Repeat Row 2. Fasten off. Working in patt as set by Row 2, work 1 row in
SIZE TO FIT CHEST
d
b
c
a Chest width a: 27.5 (29: 30: 31.5: 34.5: 35.5: 37)cm, 10 (11 : 12: 12 : 13 : 14: 14 )in Length* b: 26 (27: 29: 31: 38: 40: 42)cm, 10 (10 : 11: 12: 14 : 15 : 16 )in Sleeve length c: 15 (17: 20: 29: 30: 31: 32)cm, 6 (6 : 7 : 11 : 11 : 12 : 12 )in Hood depth d: 20 (21: 21: 22: 22: 24: 24)cm, 7 (8 : 8 : 8 : 8 : 9 : 9 )in
cm
6 mths
12 mths
18 mths
2 yrs
3 yrs
4 yrs
5 yrs
43
45.5
48
52
55
58.5
61
in
17
18
19
23
24
ACTUAL CHEST APPROX
cm
55
58
60.5
63
69
71
74
23
25
27
28
29
LENGTH EXCLUDING HOOD
cm
26
29
31
38
40
42
in
10
11
12
cm
15
17
20
29
30
6
7
SLEEVE LENGTH
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DIVIDE FOR FRONTS AND BACK Next row (RS) Ch3, 19 (20: 21: 22: 24: 25: 26) ltr for Right Front, turn leaving rem sts unworked. Work 9 (9: 10: 10: 11: 12: 13) more rows in patt on these sts. Fasten off. Rejoin Yarn A in next unworked st of Main Body for Back, ch3, 42 (44: 46: 48: 52: 54: 56) ltr, turn leaving rem sts unworked. Work 9 (9: 10: 10: 11: 12: 13) more rows in patt on these sts. Fasten off. Rejoin Yarn A in next unworked st of Main Body for Left Front, ch3, 19 (20: 21: 22: 24: 25: 26) ltr, turn. Work 9 (9: 10: 10: 11: 12: 13) more rows in patt on these sts. Fasten off.
in
21
22 27 10
20
21
14
15 31
16 32
in
6
11
11
12
12
YARN A
100g
2
2
2
3
3
4
4
YARN B
100g
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
YARN C
100g
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
YARN D
100g
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
To make this pattern easier to follow, we’ve colour-coded the sizing instructions – simply follow the relevant column.
KIDS’ HOODIE
JOIN SHOULDERS Join Right Front and Right Back shoulder starting from outside edge over 13 (13: 14: 14: 16: 16: 17) sts, leaving rem sts unjoined for working Hood. Fasten off and repeat for Left Shoulder.
The hood is made as a rectangle, then folded to form a seam at the back
SLEEVES MAKE 2
RIB Work as for Body Rib until 23 (23: 26: 26: 27: 30: 33) rows have been completed.
MAIN SLEEVE Rotate work 90 degrees to work into row-ends. Row 1 (WS) Ch1, dc into each row end, turn. [23 (23: 26: 26: 27: 30: 33) dc] Fasten off. Row 2 Join Yarn B, ch3, 23 (23: 26: 26: 27: 30: 33) ltr, turn. Cont with colour changes as for Main Body, and at same time, increase 2 sts by working 2ltr in first and last st of row on next row and every foll 2nd (2nd: 2nd: 4th: 4th: 4th: 4th) row until there are 31 (31: 34: 34: 37: 40: 43) sts. Cont in plain ltr without shaping until Sleeve measures 15 (17: 20: 29: 30: 31: 32)cm. Join underarm seams and sew Sleeves into armholes. HOOD Using Yarn A, ch17 (19: 19: 21: 21: 23: 23). Row 1 (RS) Ltr in fourth ch from hook to end. [14 (16: 16: 18: 18: 20: 20) sts] Row 2 Ch3, ltr in each st to end, turn. Row 3 Ch3, 2ltr in st at base of beg ch-3, ltr in each st to end, turn. [15 (17: 17: 19: 19: 21: 21) sts] Cont increasing 1 st at beg of every foll third row a further 5 times. [20 (22: 22: 24: 24: 26: 26) sts] Work 2 (4: 4: 6: 6: 10: 10) rows without increasing. Next row Ch3, tr2tog, ltr in each st end, turn. [19 (21: 21: 23: 23: 25: 25) sts]
Work 2 rows as Row 2. Rep last 3 rows 5 times more. [14 (16: 16: 18: 18: 20: 20) sts] Fasten off. Fold the Hood in half width-ways and join the back seam. Align base of Hood to neck opening matching up corners and seam together. BUTTON BAND Using Yarn A, join with a ss in first dcbl of Right Front. Row 1 (RS) Ch1, (does not count as st throughout), dc evenly up Right Front, around Hood and down Left Front, turn. Row 2 Ch1, dc in each st to end, turn.
Mark 1cm from bottom of Right Front button band and then a further 8 (8: 8: 9: 9: 9: 9) points evenly along the band. Row 3 Ch1, *dc in each st to next marker, ch2, skip 2 sts; repeat from * until ch-sps have been worked at all markers, dc in each st to end, turn. [8 (8: 8: 9: 9: 9: 9) ch-2 sps] Row 4 Ch1, dc in each st, with 2dc in each ch-2 sp. Fasten off. TO FINISH Sew buttons onto Left Front button band. Weave in all ends and block to measurements.
SIMPLE STEPS HOW TO MAKE A HORIZONTAL BUTTONHOLE
1 Work to the point where you want the buttonhole. Follow your pattern instructions or try working the first 3 stitches as usual, then place the buttonhole.
2 Don’t work into the next stitch. Instead, make a chain length that’s slightly shorter than the width of your button.
3 Skip the same number of stitches as your chain length. So if you made 3ch, skip 3 stitches on the row below. Work into the next stitch and across the row as usual.
4 On the next row, when you reach the chain length, just work a stitch into each chain or work 3 stitches into the buttonhole chain space. Always follow the instructions in your pattern. WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET 75
inc JU . fr ST ee £9 UK .99 P& P*
Your handmade beauty journey starts here Bring more nature and less plastic into your life with this inspiring collection of DIYs using natural ingredients. Learn how to make simple creams, scrubs and candles or more adventurous cold-pressed soaps and shampoo bars.
E
60 r Je t f Gorgeous Photography f Step-by-Stepsf Maker Interviews
ORDER YOUR COPY TODAY! ORDER ONLINE WWW.BUYSUBSCRIPTIONS.COM/HANDMADEBEAUTY OR CALL 03330 162 138 AND QUOTE ‘HANDMADE BEAUTY & HOME PRINT1’
UK calls will cost the same as other standard fixed line numbers (starting 01 or 02) and are included as part of any inclusive or free minutes allowances (if offered by your phone tariff). Outside of free call packages call charges from mobile phones will cost between 3p and 55p per minute. Lines are open Mon to Fri 9am-5pm. Overseas please call +44 (0)1604 973 746. *Price above applies to UK orders only. EUR price £11.99, ROW price £12.99. Please allow up to 28 days for delivery.
FLORAL CUSHION
Cushy number Take time out for yourself and sit pretty on a floral motif cushion by Hannah Cross
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FLORAL CUSHION
A BIT TRICKY DK WEIGHT
4MM HOOK
You’ll be unable to resist the lure of five minutes’ rest when this delightful cushion is perched on your chair. The plain panel really shows off the intricate motifs next to it.
NOTES YOU WILL NEED Q James C. Brett It’s Pure Cotton DK
(100% cotton, 100g/215m) 1 ball of each: Yarn A White IC04 Yarn B Pink IC10 Yarn C Lilac IC03 Q A 4mm (US G/6) hook Q Cushion pad, 50x30cm For yarn stockists contact www.jamescbrett.co.uk
TENSION Each Motif measures 10x10cm (4x4in) 16 sts and 18 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over double crochet using a 4mm hook, or size needed to obtain correct tension
MEASUREMENTS To fit cushion pad measuring 50x30cm (19 x11 in)
ABBREVIATIONS For a full list, see page 94
Cushion is made up of 2 Panels. The Back is worked in plain dc rows throughout. The Front is made up of 9 joined Motifs, with rows of double crochet worked across one of the edges.
CUSHION BACK Using Yarn A, ch49. Row 1 (RS) Htr in second ch from hook and each ch across, turn. [48 sts] Row 2 Ch1 (does not count as st throughout), htr in each st across, turn. Rep Row 2 until Back measures 50cm. Fasten off. FRONT MOTIF (MAKE 9) Using Yarn B, make a magic loop. Round 1 (RS) Ch4 (counts as tr and ch1), (tr in loop, ch1) 7 times, ss to third ch of beg ch-4. [8 sts, 8 ch-1 sps] Round 2 (RS) Ch3 (counts as tr throughout), *2 3-tr cl in next ch-1 sp, (tr, ch4, tr) in next ch-1 sp; rep from * 3 times more omitting final tr, ss to top of beg ch-3. [16 sts, 4 ch-4 sps] Fasten off. Join Yarn C in any tr after ch-4 sp. Round 3 Ch3, *2tr in next 2 sts, tr in next st, (3-tr cl, ch4, 3-tr cl) in ch-4 sp, tr in next st; rep from * 3 times more omitting final tr, ss to top
The motif is a traditional granny square with a pretty Front Post treble detail
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On the last border row, not working extra stitches at corners gives a rounded shape
Work rows of double crochet in Yarn A along one side of the nine-motif square
of beg ch-3. [32 sts, 4 ch-4 sps] Fasten off. Join Yarn A in any ch-4 sp. Round 4 Ch1, *(2dc, ch2, 2dc) in ch-4 sp, 2dc in next cl, FPtr around tr directly below from Round 2, skip next tr from Round 3, dc in next 4 sts, FPtr around tr directly below from Round 2, skip next tr from Round 3, 2dc in next cl; rep from * 3 times more, ss to beg dc. [56 sts, 4 ch-2 sps]
FLORAL CUSHION
Working the seam on the outside results in a decorative border all round the cushion
Fasten off and weave in ends. Block Motifs to measurements listed. Using Yarn A, join the Motifs together in a 3-by-3 formation. We have worked a slip stitch seam with RS facing but you can join using your preferred method. ADDITIONAL ROWS With RS of Motifs facing, join Yarn A in first dc along one side. Row 1 (RS) Ch1, 48dc evenly down one side of joined Motifs, turn. [48 sts] Rows 2-10 Ch1, dc in each st across, turn. Row 11 Ch1, dc in bl of each st across, turn. Row 12 Ch1, dc in fl of each st across, turn. Rep Rows 11-12 until Front measures 50cm. TO MAKE UP Place Panels together with RS facing out. Join Yarn B through corner of both Panels and work next round through both pieces to join. Round 1 Ch1, *3dc in corner, dc evenly across each side to next corner; rep from * 3 times more, insert cushion pad before joining final side, ss to top of beg dc. Fasten off. Join Yarn C in any st. Round 2 Ch1, htr in each st around, ss to beg htr. Fasten off and weave in ends.
The back is worked as a plain fabric in a single yarn shade
SIMPLE STEPS HOW TO WORK A SLIP STITCH SEAM
1 First, make sure you fasten off, weave in ends and block pieces. Place pieces right sides together. Insert hook into the first stitch on both pieces. Make a slip knot and place it onto the hook.
2 Pull the slip knot through both stitches to bring it to the front. Now insert hook into the second stitch of both layers and work a slip stitch. Work a slip stitch in the third stitches of both layers.
3 Continue working slip sts along the edge, as far as you need to. Fasten off, weave in ends, open out the seam and lightly press from the wrong side.
4 From the right side, the slip stitch seam forms an ‘invisible’ join. It forms a firm, flat seam that won’t give much stretch. It’s best to use a matching yarn.
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crochet
Unravelled With
Becky Skuse
Why does my crochet unravel? Brush up on your technique with our simple guide… There are a few essential areas of crochet technique that you might have accidentally skipped over in your enthusiasm to get hooking. The one I see time and again is good finishing technique – this is often the reason behind crochet fabrics that find a way to unravel by themselves! Yes, it’s a bit boring, but a good finishing technique is
vital to make sure your projects look their absolute best. Think of it this way: you may have spent an hour crocheting a perfect circle, so why not spend five minutes finishing it off so it looks lovely? In this workshop, I’ll show you how to fasten off your last stitch safely and then how to weave in the yarn tails for a perfect finish every time.
How do I fasten off? It’s easy to secure the last stitch… Step 3 Use the hook to continue pulling the yarn tail until it’s come all the way through the loop. Step 4 Pull the end of the yarn tail to tighten up the final loop and form a small knot right next to the fabric. You’ve fastened off! For some projects, you’ll be finished there – for example, in toy making, you can often just tuck the tail inside the body part. However, if your yarn ends will be visible in the finished project, you’ll need to ‘weave them in’ – read on to find out how.
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Find out more about Becky at makemedo.wordpress.com
Fastening off in crochet is wonderfully easy. To practise, you just need a small piece of crochet fabric that you’ve finished. Where your pattern says ‘Fasten off’, just work as follows: Step 1 Make sure you’ve finished the last stitch, leaving one loop on the hook. Now cut your yarn, leaving a tail approx 10cm – you need a piece of yarn around this length to make sure the fasten-off knot doesn’t accidentally come undone. Using the yarn tail, work yrh… Step 2 …and pull through the working loop.
a
F How do I weave in?
Next you need to secure the tails of yarn… ‘Weaving in ends’ involves taking the tails of yarn (from the slipknot and fasten-off knot) into the fabric so they’re no longer visible. Here’s how to do it: Step 1 Make sure the wrong side of the fabric is facing you. Thread the tail onto a tapestry needle. Take the tail away from the knot by inserting the needle under a couple of yarn strands of the closest stitch – in our example, this is a couple of ‘legs’ of the nearest dc. On a treble fabric, insert the needle under a couple of strands of the post of the nearest treble. Step 2 Pull the needle through gently. Step 3 Next take the yarn tail horizontally inside a row of stitches. Avoid doing this in the outer row because you might need to
work an edging or seaming into that row. Instead, insert the needle under the upper strands of the stitches on the second row from the edge – don’t go through to the other side. If you’ve got a treble fabric, insert the needle under the upper strands at the base of each stitch. Continue for approx 5cm. Step 4 Pull needle through. The tail needs to sit flat and not pucker the fabric – pull it back into shape as needed. Now take the tail vertically into the closest stitch, working away from the edge of the fabric. Step 5 Pull the needle through. Take the tail horizontally inside the next row of stitches, as in Step 3 but this time work in the opposite direction – this makes the tail harder to pull out accidentally and spreads
out any extra bulk from the tail. If your tail is too short, insert the needle first and then thread the eye. Step 6 Pull needle through. Carefully trim any remaining yarn tuft close to the fabric. Step 7 Turn to the right side to check that the tail is not visible. Repeat the process from Step 1 as needed. Step 8 If you started with a magic loop, take extra care when weaving in this tail. So, when you work Step 2, weave the tail away from the centre. In this treble circle example, insert the needle under a couple of yarn strands of the post of the nearest treble. Step 9 On circular motifs, weave the tail inside rounds of stitches. Work anticlockwise for Step 3 and clockwise for Step 5.
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Let Becky solve your hooky conundrums! Crochet Unravelled aims to deep dive into the techniques, tutorials and terminology that will make you a better hookster. Have you got a question you want Becky to unravel? Send it in to us at simplycrochet@immediate.co.uk
Don’t miss the next workshop… I’ll explain benefits of blocking and how to do it
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Show us yours Join our gang of Treble Makers and share your thoughts and makes with us, for a chance to be featured here, use our hashtag #Sctreblemaker
PAIRED UP
ER! WINN
W This beautifully
unique pair of socks have been made by Monika Nolan, who was really pleased to get the yarn she needed just before lockdown to start crocheting. She hooked up two pairs as gifts for her friends, which I’m sure they (and their feet) appreciated. Monika said the socks were the easiest she’s ever made. Worth a go then, eh?
insta-ram! Here is Aries the ram, one of the first 2021 Zodiac Calendar amigurumi star sign characters from issue 104 that we’ve seen made up. Quick off the hook is Cara Engwerda, Instagram handle @carascreationsaus, with her adorable little buddy. Hopefully it’ll be more more sheepish than ram-bunctious!
WARMS THE HEART Issue 99’s supplement provided the pattern for this housewarming gift for Sarah Welsh’s daughter. Sarah changed the colourways a little, using some leftover yarn from a blanket she made together with her daughter during the first lockdown. What a lovely reminder of your time spent together.
DOUBLE TAP We’ve been double tapping on Instagram and admiring your makes. Tag us @simplycrochetmag and use the hashtag #SCtreblemaker MICE TO MEET YOU Gabrielle Powell aka @Sugargrottomakes has made the trio of mice from issue 103 for gifts, making the reindeer mouse a skirt as well as a pair of trousers. Squeal! STOCKING FILLER All the way from Texas, USA, issue 90’s stocking has been made by Taylor Cross, aka @vegtayble. She says her baby fits perfectly in it – like a festive sleeping bag! FAWN FANCY Natalie Edwards aka @madeinthebutton room has made this sweet little fawn from issue 93. She loves crocheting faces, as that’s when toys really come to life. FACE TO REMEMBER Issues 103’s Frida bauble has just rolled off the hook of Dorien van den Bosch, aka @pop_i_dots. She loves getting crafty and designing her own crochet projects.
THE LOWDOWN It’s simple to be in with a chance of winning a great hooky prize in a future issue! Show us your Simply Crochet makes on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram or via email by 19 January 2021. For all terms and conditions, and more information, visit www.gathered.how/simplycrochetcomps COMPETITION RULES By Promoter: Immediate Media Company Bristol Limited (“Promoter”). By taking part in one of our Competitions, you agree to be bound by these Competition Rules. Late or incomplete entries will be disqualified. No responsibility accepted for lost, delayed, ineligible or fraudulent entries. Proof of posting (if relevant) shall not be deemed proof of delivery. Entries must be submitted by an individual (not via any agency or similar) and, unless otherwise stated, are limited to one per household. The Promoter reserves the right in its sole discretion to substitute any prize with cash or a prize of comparable value. Unless otherwise stated, the Competition is open to all UK residents of 18 years and over, except employees of the Promoter and any party involved in the competition or their households. By entering a Competition you give permission to use your name, likeness and personal information in connection with the Competition and for promotional purposes. All entries will become the property of the Promoter upon receipt and will not be returned. You warrant that the Competition entry is entirely your own work and not copied or adapted from any other source. If you are a winner, you may have to provide additional information. Details of winners will be available on request within three months of the closing date. If you are a winner, receipt by you of any prize is conditional upon you complying with (among other things) the Competition Rules. You acknowledge and agree that neither the Promoter nor any associated third parties shall have any liability to you in connection with your use and/or possession of your prize. The draw is final and no correspondence will be entered into. If any winner is unable to be contacted within one month of the closing date, the Promoter will offer the prize to a runner-up. Promoter reserves the right to substitute the prize with one of the same or greater value but there is no cash alternative. Competitions in issue 106 are open from 00:01 on 14 January 2021 until 11:59pm on 10 February 2021. For Terms and Conditions of the competitions in this issue, see www.gathered.how/simplycrochetcomps
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@ SIMPLYCROCHET
PERSEVERE, MY DEER! Hayley Swan aka @swanscrafty makes has hooked up issue 88’s jumper for her daughter. She severely broke her arm and wrist soon after starting it and needed extensive surgery and physio, so it has been a long project. She is very happy with the jumper though and her daughter loved wearing it on the big day.
PLAY TODAY, KEEP FOR ALWAYS
Laura Hughes, aka @laurajane hughes77 has also been inspired byy issue 104’s Zodiac Calendar and made the Cancer crab for her son Leo and the seagoat Capricorn for her daughter Evie. Two lucky children now have amigurumi star signs to play with, and personalised toys to keep forever.
JOIN US ONLINE!
This month we asked you...
AMIGURUMI
JUMPER OR CARDI
9%
BLANKET OR THROW
37%
TALK TO US!
9%
WHEREVER MY HOOK TAKES ME
45%
What will be your big crochet project for 2021?
If you’re looking to socialise with like-minded crocheters, then make sure you join our SCtreblemakers Facebook group – the place to share pictures of your makes, get pattern recommendations and advice, and generally talk about how much you love Simply Crochet magazine. With over 4.8K members, it’s a bustling crochet forum full of friendly fellow hooksters. We look forward to chatting with you on there!
Post a pic on our Facebook page facebook.com/simplycrochetmag Tweet us @SimplyCrochet_ twitter.com/SimplyCrochet_ Add to our Finished Projects board ravelry.com/groups/simply-crochet Use the hashtag #SCtreblemaker instagram.com/simplycrochetmag Email us at: simplycrochet@immediate.co.uk
YARN REVIEWS
e l y l i a n r e n h s C e new year with some fabulous fluff h t e t a y yar br n! Cele NUMBER 0 MOTIF
01
Ch18, join with ss to form a ring. ROUND 1 Ch3 (counts as tr), 23tr in ring, ss to top of beg ch-3 to join. FASTEN OFF and weave in ends.
NUMBER 1 MOTIF Ch13. ROW 1 Tr in fourth chain from hook and in each ch along. FASTEN OFF and weave in ends.
NUMBER 2 MOTIF Ch21. ROW 1 Tr in fourth ch from hook, tr in next 4 ch, tr2tog, skip 2 ch, ss in next ch, turn, ss in next 3 sts, turn, tr in next 4 ch, 5tr in next ch, 2tr in next 3 ch. FASTEN OFF and weave in ends.
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Here's to a happy New Year!
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YARN REVIEWS
Bernat Blanket extra
Hobbii Baby Snuggle
WEIGHT Jumbo CONTENT 100% polyester BALL 300g/87m HOOK 15mm RRP £10.99
WEIGHT Super chunky CONTENT 100% polyester BALL 100g/120m HOOK 6mm RRP £5.90 01
in absolutely no time at all. With 16 delightful colours to choose from, five of which are fabulous variegations, this super-size yarn is a fantastic choice for instant crochet gratification. Machine washable at 30ºC – and it’s safe to put in a tumble dryer. www.yarnspirations.com
This yarn is both strokably soft as well as incredibly lightweight. At first glance, it might not seem like a super chunky yarn, but as soon as you start crocheting with it you’ll notice that it almost seems to plump up as you work, creating beautiful spongy stitches that are nicely
Sirdar Happy Chenille
Cygnet Chenille
WEIGHT DK CONTENT 100% polyester BALL 15g/38m HOOK 3.5mm RRP £0.99
WEIGHT Chunky CONTENT100% polyester BALL 100g/106m HOOK 7mm RRP £3.99 04
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Whether you fancy hooking up a multicoloured project, or are just after a single ball to make a super-fluffy pompom, these bargain 15g balls of Happy Chenille from Sirdar are bound to put a smile on your face! The DK weight and smooth consistent fuzziness mean it’s an
easy yarn to crochet with and produces a lightweight fabric with a nice smooth texture. There are 25 shades in the range, including deep rich tones as well as subtle pastels and neutrals. Machine wash at 40ºC and can be tumble dried. www.sirdar.com
defined. In fact, you’ll get the best of the lightness if you work with a larger hook. There are 30 colours to choose from in the solid range, and there’s also a Baby Snuggle Print range with nine fun spotty colour combos. Machine wash at 40ºC. shop.hobbii.co.uk/baby-snuggle
There’s something ever so charming about this chenille yarn from Cygnet. First, the construction is really quite dense and even, giving you a life-like fuzzy caterpillar effect, which is where chenille gets its name from (chenille is actually the French word for caterpillar).
Second, it’s wonderfully soft, giving you a deliciously velvety texture (think velour tracksuit soft). Available in 11 deep solid shades, we think this is a real winner for many different types of crochet projects. Machine wash at 30ºC. www.cygnetyarns.com
James C. Brett Flutterby
king cole yummy crush
WEIGHT Chunky CONTENT 100% polyester BALL 100g/175m HOOK 6mm RRP £3.59
WEIGHT Super chunky CONTENT 100% polyester BALL 100g/83m HOOK 8mm RRP £5.50 05
Describing itself as super-soft polyester, Flutterby certainly lives up to the description. The fuzzy chenille effect is perhaps less dense than some of the other yarns we’ve looked at, but only ever so slightly – it still creates a lovely fluffy fabric that resembles towel-like materials,
and the chunky weight means it won’t take you long to hook up your fluffy projects. Perfect for baby blankets, there are 26 shades to choose from, ranging from pretty pastels to funky dotty variations. Machine wash at 30ºC and can be dry cleaned. www.jamescbrett.co.uk
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If you’re looking for a chenille yarn that’s packed full of fun, then you’ve definitely got to try out Yummy Crush. It’s not only super-squishy and fantastically fluffy, but it’s also a two-tone yarn. The two colours aren’t quite twisted together but create a similar even twisted
colour effect (they seem to be sewn together – you can’t pull the strands apart). This creates a fun dotty effect on your final fabric, which is chunky and dense. It comes in eight sweet-inspired shades and can be machine washed at 40ºC. www.kingcole.com WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET 85
Due to pandemic circumstances, yarns may not be available. Please refer to suppliers’ websites for up-to-date information.
Boy oh boy, is this yarn big! The whopping 300g ball of yarn will need a super-size 15mm hook to work with, and you better believe your stitches are gonna come out huge! Creating a super-thick, super-squishy fabric, you’ll be able to hook up blankets and other big projects
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C bargello crochet collection
statement block jumper soft alpaca shawl Love Heart Cushion Pretty shelf bunting exclusive pikachu amigurumi
cute & furry owl mitts
Exclusive Tu i Ia Ro h t Pa t Rn b O ! 5 gorgeous designs for beginners and improvers
OON SALE 11 FEBRUARY Gifts are subject to change both in UK and overseas
* Contents subject to change
Crochet Wn o D Mp y Oc e O ! Yo ra FrT e
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YOUR GUIDE
HOWTO VIDEO S
For v help, seeidoeuo demos and expe at wwwr.yYarniversity chanrtne outube.co l SimplyCro chetMagm/
Crochet essentials
Over the next few pages, you’ll find simple step-by-step guides to many useful stitches and techniques that you’ll use every time you pick up a hook HOLDING THE HOOK
HOLDING THE YARN
Try these methods and see which works best
Even tension results in even stitches
PENCIL METHOD Hold the hook like a pencil, in your right hand (if you’re right-handed), about 3-5cm from the hooked end. If your hook has a flat area, you’ll find it comfortable to hold it here.
METHOD ONE Pass the ball end of the yarn between the little finger and third fingers of your left hand (if you are right-handed), then behind the third and middle fingers, over your index finger.
METHOD TWO Loop the ball end of the yarn loosely around the little finger of your left hand, then take it over the third finger, behind the middle finger and over your index finger.
3 Catch the ball end of the yarn with the hook and pull it back through the centre of the loop, taking the yarn through with it.
4 Pull both ends of the yarn to tighten the knot, then pull just the ball end to tighten the loop so it’s close to the hook, but not touching it.
KNIFE METHOD Hold the hook between your thumb and forefinger, about 3-5cm from the hooked end, resting the end of the hook against your palm. This will give you lots of control.
MAKING A SLIPKNOT The first loop on the hook
1 Hold the tail of the ball of yarn in your left hand and drape the yarn clockwise over the top of it to form a loose, circular loop.
2 Hold the loop between left thumb and forefinger, then insert the crochet hook through the centre of the loop from front to back.
CHAIN STITCH Use this stitch to make your foundation chain
How to count chains 1
9
1 Hold the hook in your right hand, and both the yarn end and the working yarn in your left hand. Move the hook under and over the yarn to wrap it around anticlockwise.
2 Pull the hook towards the slipknot, catching the yarn in the hook, and pulling it through the slipknot loop. This forms your first chain (ch) stitch. Repeat steps 1 and 2 to form a chain length.
3 This is what your row of chains will look like. Hold the chain with your left hand near the hook, to keep the tension. Keep going until you have the number of chains that’s stated in your pattern.
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Each chain or loop counts as one stitch. Never count your first slipknot or the loop on the hook (called the working loop). So that you can be accurate, make sure the chain is not twisted and that the front is facing you.
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SLIP STITCH (ss)
WORKING IN ROWS
This stitch has no height – often used to join rounds
Follow these simple rules to construct crochet fabric
1 The slip stitch is used to join a length of chain into the round. Insert the hook from front to back into the first chain you worked. Wrap yarn round the hook (yrh) in an anticlockwise direction.
2 Pull the yarn through the chain stitch (as shown) and then the loop already on the hook to make a slip stitch. You can also work this stitch into each stitch along a row to form a neat edging.
1 The first row is made by working across the foundation chain from right to left. At the end of the chain or row, turn the work so that the yarn is behind the hook.
2 For the next row, first make the turning chain for the stitch you’re about to work (see opposite). Now work the next stitch into the top of the stitches on your first row, missing the first stitch.
DOUBLE CROCHET (dc) US term: single crochet One of the key stitches in crochet, doubles are simple, compact stitches that form a dense fabric
1 To make a double crochet stitch, insert the hook under the top 2 loops of the next stitch on the previous row.
2 Wind the yarn around the hook (yrh).
3 Pull the yarn through the stitch, giving you 2 loops on your crochet hook.
4 Yarn round hook again, then pull the yarn through both loops. There’s your double crochet made and you’ll have one loop left on the hook, ready to do the next stitch.
HALF TREBLE CROCHET (htr) US term: half double crochet A handy stitch that’s between double and treble crochet in size, and it looks slightly looser than double crochet
1 To make a half treble crochet stitch, work to where you want the htr and then wind the yarn round the hook (yrh).
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2 Insert the hook under the top 2 loops of the next stitch in the previous row. Wrap yarn around the hook again (yrh).
3 Pull the yarn through the stitch only (3 loops on hook).
4 Yarn round hook again, pull the yarn through all 3 loops. You’ve made a half treble crochet. Continue working htr into next and following sts to the end of the row.
YOUR GUIDE TREBLE CROCHET (tr) US term: double crochet One of the most popular stitches in crochet, this simple stitch is twice as high as a double crochet stitch
1 To work a treble crochet, start by winding yrh and then insert the hook under the top 2 loops of the stitch on the previous row.
2 Wrap the yarn around the hook (yrh) and pull the yarn through the stitch only.
3 You will now have 3 loops on the hook. Yrh again, and draw the yarn through just the first 2 loops on the hook.
4 You will now have 2 loops on the hook. Yrh again and draw the yarn through the remaining loops on the hook. Your treble crochet is complete.
DOUBLE TREBLE CROCHET (dtr) US term: treble crochet
TRIPLE TREBLE CROCHET (ttr) US term: double treble crochet
This is a stitch regularly used as an elongated version of the treble (described above). It’s worked in a very similar way to the treble, as follows: 1 Make a foundation chain. Skip 4ch, *yrh twice, and insert the hook under the top loop of the next ch. 2 Yrh, pull the yarn through the ch loop only (4 loops on hook). 3 Yrh and pull the yarn through 2 loops only (3 loops on hook).
This is one of the longest standard crochet stitches and is mainly used in fancy stitch patterns. It’s taller than a double treble crochet stitch (described left) and is worked in a very similar way, as follows: 1 Make a foundation ch. Skip 5 ch, *yrh 3 times, insert hook under top loop of next ch. 2 Yrh, pull yarn through ch loop only (5 loops on hook). 3 † Yrh, draw loop through
Yrh and pull the yarn through 2 loops only (2 loops on hook). 4 Yrh and pull the yarn through the remaining 2 loops. Repeat from * to make more dtr sts. 5 To make the next row of dtr, turn work and ch4. This turning chain counts as the first dtr in a new row. Skip first st at the base of the t-ch, work 1dtr under the top 2 loops of the second stitch in the previous row; continue to the end of the row.
2 loops only. Repeat from † 3 times more and your triple treble will be finished. Repeat from * to make more ttr sts. 4 To make the next row, turn work and ch5. This turning chain counts as the first triple treble in a new row. Skip first st at base of the t-ch. Work 1 triple treble, inserting hook under the top 2 loops of the second st in the previous row; continue to the end of the row.
TURNING CHAIN (t-ch)
How to count stitches
For an even finish, start each row with a turning chain
Check your work is correct
In crochet, you need to add turning chains (t-chs) to the beginning of rows. The reason for this is to bring the hook up to the height of the stitches you’re crocheting. Each basic stitch has its own number of chains. The
Being able to count your stitches is very important and helps you to ensure that you’re following a pattern correctly. It’s a good idea to count your stitches at the end of every row. To count short stitches such as double crochet, look at the plaited tops (see above right). For taller stitches, count the upright ‘stems’ – each ‘stem’ is counted as a stitch (see right).
table below tells you how many t-ch sts form the first stitch. *For dc, usually the turning chain does not count as a stitch, and the first stitch of the row is worked into the stitch at the base of the turning chain.
STITCH
Add to foundation chain before starting row
Skip at start of foundation row (counts as first st)
For turning chain (counts as first st)
Double crochet
1 ch
1 ch*
1 ch*
Half treble
1 ch
2 ch
2 ch
Treble
2 ch
3 ch
3 ch
Double treble
3 ch
4 ch
4 ch
Triple treble
4 ch
5 ch
5 ch
1
1
2
2
3
3
4
4
5
5
6
6
7
8
7
9
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HOW TO CHANGE COLOUR
INCREASING AND DECREASING
Create stripes and other colour effects
Shaping stitches are vital for making garments
1 Before you work the final yrh (yarn round hook) on the last stitch of a row in the old colour, drop the old yarn and then pick up the new one with your hook.
INCREASE To increase one stitch is very simple – work one stitch into the next stitch on the row below. When you’ve finished, work another stitch into the same stitch.
2 Pull through a loop of the new yarn to finish the old stitch. The working loop will be in the new colour. Continue, keeping the old yarn at the wrong side.
DECREASE For a quick decrease, just skip one stitch. For a neater look, work the first part of one stitch and then begin the next stitch. Finish both together.
SEWING SEAMS You can join crochet seams by using a tapestry needle or a crochet hook, using one of these four methods
1 Sewing with a tapestry needle is the regular and neat way to join seams. Place two pieces of crochet right sides together and oversew them as shown above, using a tapestry or yarn needle.
2 To slip stitch a seam, place the crochet pieces right sides together. *Insert hook into both edge stitches, yrh and pull through to complete 1 slip stitch; rep from * working into the next edge stitches, keeping work fairly loose.
How to check your tension Make and measure a swatch to check your tension Most crochet patterns state the tension required, in rows and stitches of a specific type. Make a swatch at least 15cm square and check that your tension matches. Place a ruler across the swatch and insert two pins, 10cm apart. Then place the ruler along a column of stitches and insert two pins 10cm apart. Count the stitches and rows between the pins – if you have less than the pattern, your tension is too loose so you need to use a smaller hook, but if you have too many, use a larger hook. It’s usually better to match the stitches than rows, because you can always work more or fewer rows.
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3 For a dc seam, place the crochet pieces right sides together, or wrong sides together for a visible seam. Work as for slip stitch seam, using double crochet instead of slip stitch.
4 A useful variation on the dc seam, the dc and chain seam is used when less bulk and/or greater flexibility is needed. Work 1 double crochet and 1 chain alternately.
YOUR GUIDE FOUNDATION RING
WORKING STITCHES INTO A RING
Create a foundation ring for working in the round
To make circles, tubes and other shapes
1 Make a chain the length stated in the pattern instructions. Next, insert the crochet hook into the first chain. Close the ring with a slip stitch, working yrh…
1 Make a foundation ring and work the t-ch (3ch for treble sts). Work a treble st as usual, but insert hook into centre of ring. For treble sts, yrh, insert hook into ring.
2 Finish the treble, as usual (yrh, pull yarn through ring, yrh, pull yarn through first 2 loops, yrh, pull yarn through 2 loops). Work more sts into the ring as needed.
3 Make a t-ch for the sts you want to work (above, we made 1 t-ch for dc). Work your sts into the magic loop, over both the loop and the tail end (so, 2 yarn strands).
4 Once you’ve worked the first round of stitches, pull the tail end of yarn to draw up the ring. Work a slip stitch to join the last and first sts to finish the first round (as instructed in the guide below).
2 …and pull yarn through 2 loops on hook. Now you’re ready to start crocheting in the round, following the instructions given right.
MAGIC LOOP An alternative foundation ring for working in the round
Working yarn
Tail end
1 To start a magic loop, don’t make a slipknot. Instead, make a loop with the yarn, leaving a tail around 10cm long. Make sure the tail end is under the working yarn.
2 Now insert your hook into the loop, from front to back. Wrap the working yarn around the hook and pull the yarn through the loop.
JOINING ROUNDS Finish off each round of crochet stitches nice and neatly by using a slip stitch
Rounds or spirals
1 To close a round of stitches, work a slip stitch into the top of the turning chain. To do this, insert the hook into the top stitch of the turning chain.
2 Then place the yarn round the hook. Pull the yarn through the turning chain stitch and through the original stitch on your hook.
3 You’ve slip stitched the round together! Before working another round, be sure to make the required turning chain. Always work rounds on the right side, unless your pattern instructs you otherwise.
Some patterns are worked in rounds that are joined together at the end of each round (see left). Other patterns are worked in a spiral, so you don’t need to join the rounds at the end, just keep going, working into the next stitch on the previous row. Amigurumi toys are often worked in a spiral like this.
WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET 93
©Stephanie Lau, www.allaboutami.com
Check which technique you need to use
Crochet hook conversions
Abbreviations across approx beg bl BP
ch(s) ch-sp(s) chcl(s) tr cl
cont dc dc2tog
dec dtr dtr2tog fdc ftr fl foll/folls FP
to end of the row approximate(ly) beginning insert hook under back loop only Back Post: work st indicated, inserting hook around post of st from back to front to back and not in top of st chain/chain stitch(es) chain space(s) refers to ch made previously, eg. ch-3 clusters (yrh, insert hook in sp/ st, yrh & pull up loop, yrh & draw through 2 loops) number of times indicated, yrh & draw through all loops on hook continue double crochet (insert hook in next st, yrh & draw a loop through) twice, yrh & draw through all 3 loops on hook decrease double treble crochet work 2dtr together foundation dc foundation tr insert hook under front loop only following/follows Front Post: As BP, inserting hook around post from front to back to front
htr htr2tog in next inc LH lp(s) meas patt(s) pm prev qtr rem rep RH rnd(s) RS sk sp(s) ss st(s) t-ch(s) tog tr tr2tog
ttr WS yrh *
()
half treble work 2htr together sts to be worked into the same stitch increase left hand loop(s) measures pattern(s) place marker previous quadruple treble remain(s)/remaining repeat right hand round(s) right side skip space(s) slip stitch stitch(es) turning chain(s) together treble crochet (yrh, insert hook in next st, yrh & pull up loop, yrh a& draw through 2 loops) twice, yrh & draw through all loops on hook triple treble crochet wrong side yarn round hook work instructions immediately foll *, then rep as many more times as directed work all instructions in the brackets as many times as directed
HOW TO GET A PERFECT FINISH To prevent your hard work unravelling once you’ve finished crocheting, fasten the ends off carefully, following our instructions below Complete the final stitch, then cut the yarn about 15cm from the work. Pull it through the last loop on the hook and pull to close the loop. Thread the yarn tail onto a tapestry needle and weave into the back of the work. Most crochet items don’t need a lot of blocking, but cotton lace work usually does. To do this, carefully pin out the item with rust-proof pins, mist with a water spray and leave to dry naturally. 94 WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET
UK
METRIC
US
14
2mm
–
13
2.25mm
B/1
12
2.5mm
–
–
2.75mm
C/2
11
3mm
–
10
3.25mm
D/3
9
3.5mm
E/4
–
3.75mm
F/5
8
4mm
G/6
7
4.5mm
7
6
5mm
H/8
5
5.5mm
I/9
4
6mm
J/10
3
6.5mm
2
7mm
–
0
8mm
L/11
00
9mm
M/13
000
10mm
N/15
K/10
Which hook do I use? Hook size
UK yarn weight
2.5-3.5mm hook
4ply yarn
3.5-4.5mm hook
double knitting yarn
5-6mm hook
aran yarn
7mm and bigger
chunky yarn
UK/US conversions UK
US
chain
ch
chain
ch
slip stitch
ss
slip stitch
ss
double crochet
dc
single crochet
sc
half treble
htr
half double
hdc
treble
tr
double
dc
double treble
dtr
treble
tr
triple treble
ttr
double treble
dtr
of e om h e Th
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CHARTS
Charts & Diagrams Follow these helpful charts when making the blanket, cushion and wrap
Blanket chart 1, page 61 44 43 42 41 40 39 38 37 36 35 34 33 32 31 30 29 28 27 26 25 24 23
Key Cream
22 21
Jeans
20 19
Golden
17
Rose
15
Jade
18 16 14
Red
13 12
Saxe
24
20
15
10
5
Blanket chart 2, page 61 67 66 65 64 63 62
Key Jeans
61 Golden
60 59 58
Rose
57
Jade
55
Saxe
56 17
96 WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET
15
10
5
CHARTS
Cushion chart, page 51 38 37 36 35 34 33 32 31 30 29 28 27
Key
26 25
Yarn A
23
Yarn B
24 85
80
25
20
15
10
5
Repeat
Wrap diagram, page 21
Key Chain (ch) Treble crochet (tr)
Puff stitch (puff )
WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET 97
HOOKY TREASURE
Love those stripes! High fashion, Eighties’ music and a creative mind influenced the design of Cassie Ward’s jumper
A
s a child I was always creative. I could draw, paint, sew, knit and embroider. My great-aunt Alice was an avid crocheter and I longed to be able to do it too. I’m left-handed and following many attempts to teach me, she finally gave up. After the tragedy of losing my dear mum Josie in my late 20s, I suffered terribly with anxiety and needed a distraction from my overactive mind. I found the answer when I was at an exhibition, sitting next to a kind Irish lady from the UK Hand Knitting Association. I picked up a hook and she taught me the basics of crochet there and then and sent me on my way. I was instantly addicted and began designing immediately. I made amazing creations, but never having learned how to read a pattern, I had no idea of what stitches I was using! I needed proper lessons. A lovely lady named Helen taught me how to read patterns and showed me new techniques. From this, The Missing Yarn was born. Many of my designs come from my desire to be different, and all my patterns are influenced by the high street and catwalk. I like the thought that my
98 WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET
designs might be something you’d buy if you saw it in your favourite high street shop or online store. I love that 80s fashion has been making a comeback as it makes me feel nostalgic about my childhood. One of my favourite bands was Bananarama, and in the video for Love In The First Degree they wear prison uniform with black and white stripes, which gave me the name for my Bananarama jumper. It has strong 80s vibes and makes me hum the tune when I look at it. I was gifted the yarn to try out, and it’s a simple treble stitch pattern with drop shoulders and a modern wide sleeve. The jumper is modelled beautifully on my dear friend Lou. It was really well received on social media – it’s such a great feeling to make something that people love. That’s one of the best things about being a designer; seeing other people’s interpretation of my work with the colours they choose and how beautifully they remake the items I design. The pattern for this jumper is on Cassie’s Etsy shop themissingyarn. Find Cassie on Instagram at @themissingyarn and www.themissingyarn.co.uk
EW N
CROCHET
RIPPLE BLANKET COMPLIMENTARY PATTERN AVAILABLE ON OUR WEBSITE
kingcole.com 01756 703 670 enquiries@kingcole.com
10 beautiful shades available le from all good yarn retailers
s E 05 Relax into 2021 with the calming zen collection, including a stunning shelf hanger and mandala. As well as the diamond motif jumper for you, there’s the weather jumper for kids, where you can control the skies! For accessories, why not hook up a pretty beaded purse, cute bee charm or Tunisian cowl.
s o B k Is U Pr J c i De A o Ra E b .l /Ra S Mp Yr
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s E 04 Last-minute makes, plaid cardigan, ami’ sprouts, bouclé accessories set, tiger hat, Zodiac calendar.
s E 03 Christmas collection, starry jumper, ami’ mice, baby grow, zigzag cardi, mosaic cushion, stripy socks.
s E 02 Two-tone collection, motif jumper, ami’ monkey, colourwork cardigan, joy cushion, pocket wrap, blanket.
s E 01 Desk buddies, toy clown, bishop-sleeved cardigan, octagon blanket, cable mitts, bobble cushion.
s E 00 Boho home, loop stitch jacket, ami’ octopus, mesh tote, child’s jumper, granny blanket, wallhanging.
25 NEW PATTERNS!
J
Ea T Ba K t & C e Bu N Y!
spring shawls hexi blanket & cute kids cardi Beginner-friendly makes!
MOSAIC CROCHET collection o Tr N Te H I e! 6 Pa T r f y t t INSIDE! HOODED SCARF, UPCYCLED CUSHION, SWEET BOOKMARK, NEW SEASON YARNS & MORE
sE 9 Garden party makes, heart blanket, ami’ panda, maxi cardi, cactus tote, butterfly keyring, geo cushion.
sE 4 Geometric collection, motif cardigan, rhino toy, cars baby blanket, flower art, schnauzer cushion, floral display.
sE 8 Botanical brights, sunset shawl, ami’ crab, diamond swancho, child’s rainbow tunic, watermelon toy.
sE 3 Katie Jones’ CAL launch, big blooms homeware, ami’ deer, baby beanie, cushion duo, turtleneck.
sE 7 Cool blue accessories, boho cardigan, ami’ mermaid, lacy shawl, lobster cushion, baby T-shirt, daisy bouquet.
sE 6 Craft room collection, spring cardigan, guinea pig toy, baby blanket, floor cushion, sunny grey shawl.
sE 5 Mosaic collection, ami’ Peter Rabbit and friends, hexagon blanket, cowl neck jumper, hooded scarf, baby jacket.
sE 2 Granny square makes, puppy blanket, wall hanging, amigurumi monsters, bohemian necklace, geo scarf.
Si n Up f R Di i Al s Bs r Pt o An O ’Ll n Ve i S An t Er i Su
BABY SAFE EN71-3