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

PS. If you like my posts and wish to receive them straight to your inbox, you can sign up here and receive 20% off your first order from my website at the same time!

Get Creative With Your Wardrobe This May!

Hello! Are you joining in with Me Made May this year? I'll admit, we're over a week into the month and I'm only just starting to think about - which means you can join in from now too!

If you haven't come across it before, Me Made May is an annual challenge that encourages participants to wear their handmade clothing and accessories throughout the month of May. The challenge was created by Zoe Edwards, a sewing blogger and pattern designer, in 2010.

To take part all you have to do is commit to wearing at least one handmade item every day for the month of May! These can be crocheted, knitted or sewn and you can post your outfits on social media using the hashtag #MeMadeMay

Anyone can join in, there are no fixed rules or requirements - you can participate in whatever way works best for you. If you're a beginner crocheter, you can start by wearing simple pieces like shawls and hats. As you become more confident, you can try making more challenging garments like jumpers and cardigans

Here are some tips for participating in Me Made May:

• Start by setting realistic goals for yourself. If you're a beginner crocheter and don't have a big wardrobe of handmade items yet, just post one or two a week. Next year you'll have loads more, I'm sure!
• Mix and match your handmade pieces. You can create a variety of different outfits - for example, you could wear a crocheted shawl with a sewn dress.
• Don't be afraid to get creative. If you're stuck for ideas, try searching for inspiration on Pinterest or Instagram. You can also find inspiration in magazines or fashion blogs.
• Have fun! Me Made May is a challenge, but it's also a lot of fun. So relax and have fun putting your outfits together!

It's a fun way to connect with other crocheters, knitters and sewists and make new friends - I encourage you to join in the fun this May!

If you're looking to crochet up something for Me Made May, I'd recommend my Printer Ink Scarf. It's crocheted in 4ply yarn and it's very light and airy for wearing at this time of year. You can find the pattern on my website and on Ravelry.

 

Happy crocheting,

Marta xx

My 6 Top Tips For Better Swatches

Hello! If you're new to crochet and not sure what swatching is, it's the process of crocheting a small sample to test your gauge. It's a valuable step at the start of any crochet project, but it's extremely important for projects that require a specific fit, such as garments.

So, what is gauge?

Gauge, also known as tension, is the number of stitches and rows (usually per 10cm) in any piece of crochet. The gauge for each project is determined by the designer and should be found near the top of the pattern instructions.

Why is swatching so important?

I know, I know! It's a step we often want to skip, but there are several reasons why swatching is important.

• To ensure that your finished piece of crochet will be similar to the designer's finished piece. If it's a jumper for example, this is important - even a small difference in tension can make a BIG difference in the size of your finished project.

• To make sure that your crochet work will look the way you want it to. Different hook sizes can produce different textures and drapes. The process of swatching allows you to experiment with different hook sizes to find the hook and yarn that produces the results you want.

• To help stop you running out of yarn. When you swatch and your tension matches up with the designer's tension you can be confident that your yarn use will be more or less the same.

Ok, I'm listening, how do I swatch?

To make a swatch; crochet a square using the yarn, hook size and stitch pattern that you plan to use for your project.

Most patterns will specify the size of swatch that is required and the stitch pattern you should use for them. I recommend making your swatch at least 12cm x 12cm so that you are well clear of the edges when you take your reading.

Once you have crocheted your swatch, measure the number of stitches and rows per 10cm. If your gauge does not match the gauge specified in the pattern, you can adjust your tension or change the hook size until you get the desired gauge. If you have less stitches/ rows per 10cm you need to move down to a smaller hook. If you have more stitches/ rows per 10cm you need to move up to a bigger hook.

Mindful Crochet - Get the In The Groove Pattern

Hello! It's a new month and that means a new pattern of the month offer! For May, I've chosen my In The Groove Cushion Cover because it's such a good option if you're looking for a mindful crochet project.

It's a beginner level pattern, worked in a mix of double crochet & spike stitches for their extra padding & squishiness!

6x 100g balls of worsted weight yarn (10ply) are needed - or you could stash bust with lots of leftovers to make a super colourful scrappy design!

The crochet pattern is available on my website and on Ravelry. If you purchase via my website and have a Ravelry account you will have the option to add the pattern to your Ravelry library for free.

Use the code GROOVE for 10% off the pattern!

Until next time, happy crocheting,

Marta xx

PS. Any questions about the pattern, please ask, I'm here to help!

PPS. For 20% off this pattern and all future pattern of the month offers, sign up to my mailing list here.

Ugh, Why Did I Do That?

Hello! I did something really silly recently. Do you know those times when you just wish you could go back in time and not do the stupid thing? That.

So, I'd just finished soaking my finished Lazy Days Wrap and instead of squeezing the excess water out in a large towel like I usually do, I decided to chuck it in the washing machine on a 'gentle' spin cycle. 

Well ... it came out the machine in a twisted, stretched-out-of-all-proportion, snake like state! Eeeeek!

I went ahead and blocked it anyway, trying to pull it width wise to take the length out. That didn't work. Once off the blocking mats it was 270cm long and when I put it round my shoulders it almost came to my feet! 

To try and fix this, I soaked it over night to relax the fibres and reblocked it the next day. This made an ever so slight difference, but it was still crazy long!!

The moral of the story? When it comes to handling precious wool creations, don't try and skip steps, take your time and let the pieces shine!

I'll be back next week and I should have a second finished wrap to share with you. One that's properly blocked!

Happy crocheting,

Marta xx

Unlock Your Creativity: Design Your Own Crochet Ideas

 Photo credit: © The Crochet Project

 *** this post contains affiliate links ***

Hello! A quick post today to let you know about The Crochet Project's latest course which has just launched all about making your crochet ideas come to life.

The course teaches design basics, taking an idea from inspiration to finished garment or accessory. If you're looking to dip your toes into the design water, this is the course for you. Joanne has 12 years of designer experience behind her and knows her stuff!

The cost is £50 with the option to pay in 3 installments of £17 per month. You will have lifelong access to the course so you can take it at your own pace.

If you're already a Hub member you'll get 25% discount on the course! Whoop!

If you're not in the Hub, you may wish to sign up to the Hub first because the course will then only cost £37.50! Use the code HUBINTRO for £3 off your first 3 months membership (cancel anytime).

I am a BIG fan of The Crochet Project! I'm a Hub member, I've crocheted more of their patterns than I can count off the top of my head and I have worked through many of their courses - they're fantastic! 

Interested in finding out more? Click the link here.

Until next time, happy crocheting,

Marta xx

So much crochet to share with you!

 I'VE SO MUCH CROCHET TO SHARE WITH YOU!

Over the last two weeks I've been focusing on the crochet side of my business rather than the admin/ content side of my business. This has freed up so much time and as a result I have A LOT of crochet to share with you!

I chose to slow down, get off the hamster wheel, spend time with family & friends and with my crochet and I feel much better for it. Today is Tuesday as I'm write this and it's my first day back at it. I feel fresh and ready to return. 

So, what have I been crocheting? Here goes, in no particular order ...

I have finished my Lazy Days Wrap! It needs blocking but the crocheting part is done! I did also get the pattern written up, tech edited and sent to testers! Whoop!

This wrap is going to be released as a CAL (crochet a-long) some time towards the end of May. Sign up to my mailing list for more details coming soon!

My Battenberg Blanket has received a lot of attention! I had a really lovely day out with my mum to Stonehaven (further up the east coast from me, we went by tain which gave us wonderful sea views).   Anyway, whilst there we spent a good while in Baa!, the local wool shop! Amongst other purchases, I came a way with 2 balls of Crazy Zauberball by Schoppel. The colour changing quality of these balls enables me to crochet multiple different coloured squares for my blanket from the one ball of wool.   I started the Alchemilla Shawl by Kat Goldin. This is being run as a CAL by The Crochet Project to mark their 10th anniversary!    The recommended yarn was out of my budget, instead I purchased some yarn from a friend on Instagram who was having a destash. It's True 4ply Botany from Rowan which is now discontinued but a really lovely wool nevertheless.    It's not too late to join this CAL (it only started last Friday) and I have an affiliate link to the Hub - The Crochet Project's membership site which I thoroughly recommend you join. Take a look here and you can recieve £3 off the first 3 months membership with the code HUBINTRO.   I've been working on my crochet blanket design. The blanket is now all in one piece and the ends are all sewn in! The pattern has been written up to this point as well and all there is to do now is the border.   This blanket (which doesn't have a name yet, I'll announce a naming competition soon!) is also going to be a CAL and I'm keeping the final section a secret, so you'll have to make do with a folded photo for now.   I have added a few rows to my Not So Granny Wrap. This is another pattern from The Crochet Project (I really do LOVE their patterns!)   It's a pattern which requires lace weight yarn which I have hardly ever worked with but I'm finding it easy going actually. I'm using yarn which was passed on to me by a friend and I thought I'd never use it so in turn passed it on to my mum. I went looking through her stash when I was looking for yarn for this project and pinched it back (cheeky, I know!)   There's even been time for a spot of knitting! I cast on the Portmoak Moss Beanie Hat by Louise Mossam a few days ago and I'm really enjoying it.   This pattern is available in issue 2 of The Journal of Scottish Yarns which is out now (I have a pattern in there too!). It's a fairisle design and I'm finding the written pattern and charts easy to follow. Until next time, happy crocheting, Marta xx PS. If you enjoyed reading about my current WiPs, tune in to my latest podcast episode where you'll find me showing them off and talking about them in more detail.