Merino Wool vs Alpaca Wool

Hello! Have you ever worked with merino wool or alpaca wool? If so, have you thought about the differences and similarities between these two yarns? In this blog post I'm going to chat about both types of yarn and help you make an informed choice for your next crochet project.

Merino wool and alpaca wool are both soft, lightweight, and warm fibres that can be used to crochet or knit clothing, blankets, and accessories.

Did you know that both merino and alpaca wool are hypoallergenic, making them a good choice for people with sensitive skin? This is something I only just discovered when researching this topic! There are, however, some key differences to note between the two fibres.

Merino wool comes from the wool of Merino sheep, which were originally native to Australia. The wool has excellent moisture-wicking properties making it a good choice for activewear. Sweat is drawn to the outside of the fabric, making it easier to evaporate. It's also more water resistant than alpaca wool and is generally considered to be finer and softer, but on the downside it's not as warm.

Alpaca wool is made from the wool of alpacas, which were originally native to South America. Alpacas are raised on highland pastures, which are not suitable for other types of agriculture which makes the wool an eco-friendly choice - the farming does not contribute to deforestation or other forms of land degradation.  Alpaca wool is superior for insulating, making it a good choice for cold weather clothing.

These points only cover the various properties of each of the yarns, so let's have a look at how each one looks and handles when crocheted or knitted.

Merino wool fibres are thinner and smoother, which gives the finished item fantastic stitch definition. Garments made in merino are less likely to become wet and uncomfortable, making them an excellent choice for outer layers. Merino wool is generally more durable than alpaca wool, meaning that items knitted or crocheted in merino are less likely to pill or become damaged over time.

Alpaca wool feels softer and more luxurious than merino. It has a wonderful drape to it when crocheted or knitted up; it simply flows beautifully! The finished items will be warmer to wear than their merino counterparts. The stitch definition is not as sharp as merino wool, so depending on your pattern this might be an issue.

 

Ultimately, the best fibre for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. Whether you're crocheting or knitting - they are slightly different depending on which you're doing. Have you already got a favourite? Leave me a comment and let me know! 

Personally, I couldn't choose between the two fibres! I've crocheted, knitted and designed with them both.

Here are two of my patterns, one crocheted in each! 

The photo above is of my Elsie Beanie and you can see how well the pattern shows the stitch definition. I love the way the stitches shine! This hat is crocheted in rows of linked half trebles and worked sideways before being sewn up and a faux fur pompom is added to complete the look. You can find Elsie Beanie on my website here and on Ravelry here.

 

 

The second photo is my Barista Beanie which was originally published back in 2018 although it has only been added to my website this week. It's crocheted in alpaca wool and it's the most squishy hat I've ever made! . You can find Barista Beanie on my website here and on Ravelry here.

I hope this has given you some insight into merino wool and alpaca wool. Please do check out my crochet patterns and see what you think.

Until next time, happy crocheting,

Marta xx

Get Hooked With My Most Popular Crochet Pattern!

Hello! Following on from last Friday's blog post all about measuring feet for socks I've decided to make April's pattern of the month my Fabulous Socks!

This crochet design is my most popular pattern both on Ravelry and on my website, it's also the simplest of all my sock designs, making it an ideal choice if you're new to crocheting socks.

Even though it's a straight forward pattern, there are 7 video tutorials to help guide you through if you need them.

The toes, feet, heel and legs of these socks are crocheted in a continous spiral in the round. After the legs are completed, the cuffs are worked in rows working vertically to the legs of the socks.

Extended double crochet stitches provide excellent stretch, particularly on the soles, and the ribbed cuff is worked in rows of back loop only stitches for a snug finish around the ankles.

If you're wondering what materials you'd need, here's your list;

• 100g skein of Painbox Yarns Socks (4ply/ fingering weight yarn, 390m/ 100g), I used Stripes - Rainbow

• 3.5mm crochet hook

• 3mm crochet hook

• needle for sewing in ends

• 3 stitch markers or scraps of yarn to keep track of rounds

Remember, I'm here if you have any questions!

Throughout the month of April, APR23 gives you 10% off the pattern on my website and on Ravelry (sign up to my mailing list today for 10% off the pattern!).
It will be at least another year before this design is on offer again, so grab your copy at this special price today! 

Until next time, happy crocheting,
Marta xx

How To Measure Feet For Crocheting (Or Knitting) Socks

 

Hello! Did you know a question I'm frequently asked is "how do I measure feet for socks?" - I'm here in this blog post to answer that question!

When you're getting ready to crochet or knit a pair of socks there are two key pieces of information you need to know; the length of the feet and the circumference of the feet.

The easiest and most accurate way to measure foot length is to place a piece of paper flush up against the wall and then step on it with the heel touching the wall. Draw a line on the paper to mark where the big toe comes to and then measure the distance between the mark and the heel end of the paper to give you you're length.

For foot width; use a tape meaure and measure around the widest part of the foot.This is usually across the ball of the foot. If you don't have a tape measure handy you could use a piece of non-stretchy yarn, such as cotton, wrap it around the widest part of the foot, lay it flat and measure it. 

If you want to be thorough, you could repeat the process for the other foot to see if there are any differences (go with the larger numbers if there is a discrepancy).

My dad kindly stepped in (no pun intended!) and helped me film a video to demonstrate. We had fun making the footage (another pun, ha!) and drank lots of freshly brewed coffee in the process! I left my parents' fueled with caffeine, ready to edit and release this YouTube short. Check out the video if you've ever wondered how to measure feet for crocheting or knitting socks!

Did you also know that I've published 10 crochet sock patterns? Now you've learnt how to measure feet you'll be able to confidently choose which size to follow!
 
You'll find most of my sock patterns on my website, a few are still exclusive to magazines/ subscription boxes but they will be added later in the year.

Until next time, happy crocheting,

Marta xx

PS. If you'd like to receive my blog straight to your inbox every time, sign up to my mailing list here. 

4 Ways To Get Help With A Crochet Pattern

Hello! This week I'm here to pass on some crochet wisdom to you: my 4 ways to get help with a crochet pattern when you get stuck! It will of course apply to kniting and other crafts, so it will be super useful I hope!

If you find yourself in a pickle with a crochet stitch or pattern I have 4 top tips to help you get out of your tangle.

1. YouTube is a fantastic resource:

YouTube is your friend for pretty much every stitch and stitch combo out there! Just be careful to follow videos in UK terms if your pattern is in UK terms/ US terms if your pattern is in US terms or you could find yourself in an even bigger mess!  

2. Ask a crochet friend:

Maybe you know someone who crochets, ask them - they'll be happy to help. If you haven't joined a crochet & knitting group, I thoroughly recommend you do! Not only will you have hands on help to any problem, you'll meet like-minded people and gain some awesome new friends!

3. Check for errata:

Patterns bought online will be updated by the designer if mistakes are spotted after publication and a new copy of the pdf should be made available. If the pattern is in a magazine there will be an errata section on their website or sometimes in the next issue. 

4. Ask the designer: 

If you're completely stuck with a crochet pattern, the designer might be able to see where you're going wrong or it's possible that there's an issue with the pattern. Always be polite; remember pattern designers are humans too!

If you're more of a beginner, it will be super helpful for you to read my 'How To Read & Understand A Crochet Pattern' blog post which you'll find here.

I hope these tips are useful for you! If you'd like to receive my weekly wisdom straight to your inbox, sign up to my newsletter here. 

Until next time, happy crocheting,

Marta xx 

I'm launching this crochet blanket pattern as a CAL in the early summer!

Hello! This week I'm super busy working on my latest crochet blanket design but I wanted to pause and let you have a look at my progress!

These are the final photos I'll be sharing before the blanket pattern launches as a CAL (crochet a-long) in early summer! This will be my most ambitious CAL yet with clues being released on a weekly basis and I can't wait to let you know more about it.

The blanket is going to be available in several different sizes and it's a modular design, meaning you'll work on squares and panels before crocheting (or sewing) them together. There will be lots of options for you, not just the binding method.

So for now, enjoy these photos and start dreaming about what colours you'll use!

Until next time, happy crocheting,

Marta xx

The never-ending quest to learn new crochet skills!

Hello! A question I'm asked all the time is "how long did it take you to learn how to do that?". The person is looking at the skill involved in one of my pieces and they think they'll never be able to reach that level.

This often makes me realise just how far I've come on this crochet journey, with thoughts like "two years ago I certainly couldn't have done this" going through my head.

I'm here to tell you that anything is possible if you are 1) willing to learn and 2) put that learning into practice. 

This time last year I was learning how to do mosaic crochet, a completely new skill for me and I remember the charts looked scarily complex! However, I started on row 1 and followed the instructions to create a gorgeous blanket (pictured above) which I'm so proud of! 

Next on my list of things to learn is tapestry crochet! I know it's similar to mosaic crochet but that colour changes happen mid row, maybe even twice mid row (eeek!).

My To The Park Cardigan (released this week and pictured above) is an intermediate level crochet pattern but there are possibly new skills for you to try;

• A crocheted cable goes down the back and two cables go down either side of the front opening.

• The ties are crocheted I-cord.

• There are foundation crochet stitches used when splitting for the sleeves.

If these techniques are new to you, don't worry, the pattern has bonus video tutorials to keep you right! I'm also available for pattern support should you have any questions.

This pattern is available on my website and on Ravelry and there's currently a 10% off early bird offer! Use the code CARDILOVE at the checkout to receive your discount.

Until next time, happy crocheting,

Marta xx

Crochet cardigan pattern release day!

Hello! It's another pattern release day! This time I'm shining the spotlight on my To The Park Cardigan (did you see the cute sneak peek photos I shared in last Friday's post?)

Why not WOW everyone at the baby shower by making the 6 month size of this gorgeous design? It will work up quickly and the cables will look absolutely stunning.

There are in fact 4 sizes to choose from; 6 months, 12 months, 18 months and 24 months - perfect if you have a little one in your life to crochet for!

I used King Cole merino blend DK because it's so soft against the skin and it washes really well (important for baby items!) 

What else would you like to know?

Well, it's an intermediate level design with lots of video tutorials to help guide you if you need them. Techniques used are front post stitches, foundation stitches and I-cord, so not one for a beginner but if you're looking to challenge yourself it's a good choice.

 

The constuction is top-down yoke with the sleeves crocheted in the round later. There are options for short sleeves or long sleeves.

 

If there's anything else you'd like to know, please leave me a comment and I'll answer your questions ASAP.

Did you know I'm available if you need me for pattern support throughout your cardigan journey from yarn choices to finishing touches? You can either email me or send me a DM on Instagram and I'll happily get back to you.

 

There's an early bird offer on this crochet pattern! 10% off for one week only with the code CARDILOVE - valid on my website and on Ravelry. 

Until next time, happy crocheting,

Marta xx

PS. Don't forget to tag me on social media if you make one!

PPS. Fancy a 20% discount code for this and future patterns? Hop on my mailing list!