Have you ever thought of making your own cat toys? We make everything else, right? So why not cat toys? What I wanted with this toy was something easy to make with the same elements that attract cats featured in store bought toys, such as the crinkly sound and catnip smell.

For this project you will fill the toy with a crinkly material, like parchment paper or cellophane paper, (one person even used a foil emergency blanket), and you can also add some catnip before closing it up. The pattern itself is very simple and works up quickly!
read more »

Here’s a quick flower applique to add to a project! Attach it to a headband, purse, hat, blanket, or anything that needs a pop of color. The flower is crocheted in only two quick rounds, then a button is sewn or glued to the center to give it a finished look. Alternatively, you can crochet the first round in one color and the second round in a contrasting color if you wish to not use the button.
read more »

The knit stitch is a remarkable stitch to use when you want something unique but still basic, because it is worked just like a single crochet, only shallower. Check out the tutorial for this stitch here!

Using this stitch for a dishcloth is a perfect way to add character to an everyday piece. Crochet this dishcloth in only a few hours or less and add it to your linen supplies for a rustic, handmade touch! And don’t be surprised when your friends want a few as well.

Tip: always use yarn made from natural fibers, specifically cotton and linen, for kitchen linens so that they won’t pill with constant use!
read more »

Nothing says spring like the presence of flowers. Whether they’re grown in the garden or hand crocheted, they are bright and cheery and are sure to get you in the spring mood. In this post I rounded up a bunch of free floral themed crochet patterns that we have on the blog. The patterns range from appliques, to home decor items, to accessories. Be sure to check out more springy patterns on the Crochet Patterns for Spring page.
read more »

Have you ever made a pair of mittens before? It may sound a little daunting if you haven’t but believe me, it’s really quite simple. Using the knit stitch, I’ve designed this simple mittens pattern to be basic enough for new crocheters.

Don’t let the details get you down. I suggest two ways of working this mittens pattern – following the instructions straight through, or sizing it accordingly as you go. If you’re the hands-on type (ahem, no pun intended), then I would recommend tailoring each step to your size. For example, try the cuff around your arm and adjust it appropriately. Then the length before the thumb, and next the opening. If you find my instructions don’t meet up with your sizing then simply subtract or add a row here and there. What is important about this pattern is the basic steps: cuff, wrist, thumb-hole, hand length, and thumb length.
read more »

Crochet this lovable little elephant to attach to a blanket, bag, hat, jacket, or anything that you can think of! The elephant is crocheted seamlessly in the round from the center out. Then the heart shaped ear is sewn on. The applique works up very quick so feel free to make a bunch in different colors.
read more »

In this post I rounded up a bunch of free crochet patterns that we have on the blog that are Easter themed. There are a lot of bunny related patterns, but also some spring patterns that you may not have thought to crochet for Easter. Springs flowers, doilies, and coasters are also included. I threw in one of my favorite necklaces which would make a great addition to a spring dress for church. Have fun crocheting for Easter!
read more »

Crochet your own jewelry, like this choker necklace with adjustable length! Using simple crochet techniques like single crochet, and slip stitch to create delicate picots, you can make your own Esperanza Choker Necklace. Attach strands of thread for a quick tie or use a chain as suggested for adjustable length.

read more »

Need a quick, last minute Valentine’s gift? Crochet this little heart shaped envelope and stuff it with small chocolates and a sweet Valentine’s note. Gift it to kids or adults. It could even be a thoughtful gift for co-workers or friends. Write a simple “thanks for being awesome” note or a more elaborate love poem and slip it inside. The envelope is super easy to crochet. Work up 2 hearts and crochet the edges together to form the envelope. No sewing is required!

read more »

In this beanie pattern I have compiled two popular elements in crochet right now, the bun beanie aspect and the crochet knit stitch. When I started designing this hat I didn’t intend to make it into a bun beanie but after coming to the end of the pattern it just seemed to be a good idea.

The single crochet stitch used in this pattern for the majority of the body is called many things — waistcoat stitch, center single crochet, center post single crochet, shallow single crochet, and the crochet knit stitch. However you call it, what attracts most people to the stitch is that it looks a whole lot like the stockinette stitch in knitting.

But don’t let this intimidate you, this is as easy as single crochet, because that is exactly what it is! By inserting the hook into the lower middle of each single crochet, you will have effectually created a “knit” crochet stitch. Have fun!

read more »