A Relaxing Crochet Project for this Summer

Hello! Are you like me, looking for relaxing crochet project to see you through the summer? Look no further than my Lazy Days Wrap! This airy crocheted wrap pattern is ideal for crocheting on long summer days and your finished shawl will be versatile enough to take you from casual outings to dressy affairs.

 

Effortless Style for Every Adventure:

This every-occasion Wrap is a rectangular beauty, making it customisable to your size preferences: long & skinny or wider & floaty. Whether you drape it loosely over jeans and a T shirt or add a touch of elegance to a summer dress, this wrap is sure to become your go-to accessory.

 

Crochet with Confidence:

Don't let the "intermediate" label deter you! This wrap uses a simple stitch pattern that's easy to follow and remember, making it a perfect project for confident beginners. On top of that, there's the peace of mind that comes from a tested and tech-edited pattern, you can happily crochet away, knowing the instructions are clear and accurate.

 

Here's what you'll need to crochet your wrap:

• 2x 100g skeins of sock weight/4ply yarn (75% superwash merino/25% nylon, 400m/100g) - I used approximately 170g for reference
• 5mm crochet hook
• Needle for sewing in ends

 

Learn with Video Tutorials:

And to make your crocheting journey even smoother, the Lazy Days Wrap pattern comes with a bonus of four video tutorials! In these visual guides, I walk you through each step of the pattern, offering an extra layer of support for those who prefer crocheting with the aid of clear demonstrations. If you're a confident beginner looking to learn new skills, these tutorials will ensure that you crochet your wrap with confidence and clarity. For a taster, take a look at my picot video on YouTube ...

Tempted?

You can find the pattern on my website or in my Ravelry store and as I announced in last week's email, the Lazy Days Wrap is June's pattern of the month, so you can enjoy 15% off with the code JUNE24

I hope you've enjoyed reading more about my Lazy Days Wrap in this post. I'll be back next week, until then, happy crocheting,

Marta xx

The Mindfulness Of Crochet

Over the last few weeks I've been busier than usual and I've found that my crochet projects have really helped me to unwind, gather my thoughts and escape.

I think you'll agree with me that crochet is a brilliant way to relax and de-stress. The repetitiveness can be so calming, and it can help to focus our minds and clear our thoughts.

Today I'd like to concentrate on the mindfulness of crochet and, if you're not already tuning in to this aspect of the craft, ways you can get the most out of it. 

Did you know that mindful crochet:

• Reduces stress and anxiety. The repetitive motion of crocheting calms us down and can help to reduce our stress and anxiety.
• Improves focus and concentration. Crocheting requires focus, which can help to improve these skills.
• Increases creativity and self-expression. Crocheting is a creative outlet that can help us to thrive and express ourselves.
• Provides a sense of accomplishment. Finishing a crochet project can provide a strong sense of accomplishment.

If you're looking for ways to add a little more mindfulness to your life, crochet, and similar crafts like knitting, sewing etc, are fantastic options.

Here are a few of my tips for practicing mindful crochet:

1. Find a quiet place where you won't be interrupted.
2. Sit in a comfortable position with good posture.
3. Choose a project that you enjoy and that's not too challenging.
4. Take your time and focus on each stitch.
5. Remember to breathe! Deeply and slowly.
6. Let go of any thoughts or worries that come into your mind.
7. It can help to choose soothing colours such as purples, blues and greens to bring an extra level of calmness.
8. Just enjoy the moment and the process of creating something beautiful.

Whilst all crochet projects can be mindful, some are even more mindful that others due to their simplicity, their repititiveness or their use of mood lifting colours. Things with 2 row repeats which you don't need to look at a pattern for after a few rows are one of my favourites. 

 

Emma Leith, author of Mindful Crochet puts it like this:

 

 "Crochet is a mindful activity that can help you to relax, focus, and be present in the moment. The repetitive motion of crocheting can be very calming, and it can help to clear your mind of worries and stress."

 

I have Emma's Mindful Crochet book and the projects in at are fab! I've made a few of the flowers and the bunting you see in my craft room is made following Emma's Boho Bunting pattern.

 

Just this week on social media, Tom Daley and LoveCrafts partnered to present the word makefulness which they've defined as:

 

"A blissfully happy state achieved by focussing one's awareness on making, used as a therapeutic technique to lift the mood of the maker and those around them."

 

I don't know about you, but I LOVE this word and it's definition! So, next time you're feeling stressed or overwhelmed, pick up your hook and start crocheting! Let me know your thoughts on this issue, I'd love to know if you agree with me! 

Until next time, happy crocheting,

Marta xx

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