Something Different From Me: A Crochet Themed Colouring Sheet

Hello! This week, I'm excited to let you know about something a little different from me! For a while now, I've been toying with the idea of introducing some fun, creative activities alongside my crochet patterns, and guess what? The time has finally come! I'm absolutely delighted to bring you my very first crochet themed colouring sheet!

I've really enjoyed creating this colouring page, and I can't wait to see how you bring it to life with your own unique colour palette. So, go grab your favourite crayons, pencils, pens, or use it straight way on your tablet and unleash your creativity!

 

To get your hands on your copy, go to my website and if you enter the code COLOURING1 it's yours for FREE (valued at £1.97) when you purchase any of my crochet patterns! Ideally I would like to have more of these available, maybe even create a wee booklet, so I'd really appreciate your feedback -  please let me know your thoughts. 

 

And, if you could share any photos on social media that would be AMAZING! Don't forget to tag me so I can see!

Looking forward to bringing you more crochet news next week, until then happy colouring,

Marta xx

Cracking the Code: How to Read and Understand Crochet Patterns

How to Read and Understand Crochet Patterns

Hello! As you've probably come to realise, the world of crochet is filled with endless possibilities, from squishy scarves to adorable amigurumi. This blog post is especially for all the newbies out there, because if you're a beginner staring down at a crochet pattern can feel like deciphering hieroglyphics, can't it?
 
Fear not, aspiring crocheters! The guide I've put together for you here will equip you with the tools and confidence to decipher patterns and make your crochet dreams a reality.
 

Understanding the Structure of a Crochet Pattern:

Firstly, let's look at the typical layout of a pattern:
Materials: This section usually comes at the top and it lists the yarn, hook size, and any other supplies you'll need. Make sure you have all the required items before you start.
Gauge: Gauge (often referred to as tension) refers to the number of stitches and the number of rows which fall within a square (usually 10cm x 10cm/ 4" x 4"). Crocheting a gauge swatch allows you to adjust your hook size if your tension is too loose or too tight, thus meeting gauge helps ensure your project ends up the correct size. I devoted a whole blog post to this subject, so if you want to know more, you can read it here.
Notes: This section includes any special techniques or stitch variations used in the pattern, as well as useful information such as where the pattern starts, yarn substitution, sizing information etc.
Instructions: Here's where the pattern begins! The instructions are written in rows (for flat pieces) or rounds (for working in circles). They'll tell you exactly which stitches to make and where to place them. Take each row/ round in turn; do what it tells you to do, count your stitches at the end, move onto the next row/ round. It's a good idea to have a skim through the whole pattern to get a general idea of what's expected before you begin.

 

Learning the Language:

You'll first need to get to grips with abbreviations. Crochet patterns are packed full of them to save space and to keep the instructions concise. Luckily, there's a common core set you'll encounter in almost every pattern. Familiarising yourself with a few basic terms will make your life so much easier. Some examples are;
 
ch: chain (the stitch which following stitches are worked into)
ss: slip stitch (used for joining or fastening off)
inc: increase (adds stitches)
dec: decrease (reduces stitches)
RS: right side
WS: wrong side
 
Now, before I go any further ... I need to warn you that crochet patterns are either written in UK terminology or US terminology. I know, I know, as if things were complicated enough, eh?
 
So, a US single crochet is a UK double crochet. A US double crochet is a UK treble crochet, and so on. Patterns should clearly state which terms they use but if you're unsure look for the words "single crochet" to identify US terms because they're never used in UK terms. Remember, it's a shift in names, not the way the stitches are worked!
Patterns should include an abbreviations list which defines all the abbreviations used in that project. There are also handy reference charts available online which you can print and keep by your side. Below is a handy chart to show you the conversion of the basic stitches, I'm working behind the scenes on a printable for you right now!

Mastering the Symbols:

Crochet patterns often include charts to provide a visual aid to reading the pattern. Whilst they may look weird at first, they can actually be super helpful for following more complex patterns. In fact, once you understand how to follow them, they can be used instead of the written pattern. My pro tip for reading charts is to try to follow one after you have finished your project; see if you can trace through your journey from start to finish. I promise that they'll soon start to make sense! Below is the chart for my Simple Flower to give you an idea of what charts look like. 

 

My Tips for Pattern Reading Success:

• Start with a beginner-friendly pattern so you don't end up overwhelming yourself! By Choosing a project designed for your skill level you're far more likely to succeed.

• Look for video tutorials - many crochet patterns have accompanying video tutorials which will visually demonstrate the stitches and techniques.

• If the pattern contains a new stitch or stitch combination, take time to practice it using scrap yarn before beginning the project. When you work and rework yarn over and over it loses it's twist and sheen, so it's best to be able to go for it when you're confident.

• Don't be afraid to rip out and redo because mistakes will happen. It's best to accept that your first few attempts are not going to look like the samples in the crochet magazines (honestly, you should have seen my first attempts!).

• If you do encounter a real problem and you're stuck, reach out to the designer and see if they can help you. I wrote a blog post all about what to do if you get stuck with crochet which you can read here.

• Practice, practice, practice! The more you crochet, the more comfortable you'll become with reading patterns and understanding the instructions.

Armed with these helpful tips and with a little bit of experience, you'll be deciphering crochet patterns in no time. My biggest advice to you is to START ... so, grab your yarn and grab your hook, and get crocheting!
 
If you have any questions, remember that you can leave me a comment below or you can send me a DM on Instagram (@marta.mitchell.designs), I'm more than happy to help you out!

I hope this has been a useful blog post for you. If you like these tips, please consider signing up to my mailing list, lots more good stuff coming your way. When you do so, you'll automatically be sent my PDF with 25 top tips that every crocheter should know! 

Until next time, happy crocheting,

Marta xx

The Power of Yarn: How Crochet Can Enhance Your Wellbeing

Hello! I don't know about you, but in our fast-paced world, I often crave moments of peace and activities that will help to keep me calm & sane. I turn to crochet most in these times because I find the repetitive action so soothing. I've been looking into it, and there are so many ways in which crochet can enhance your wellbeing.

 

Stress Relief and Relaxation:

The rhythmic motions of crocheting – the turning of the yarn, the steady flow of the stitches – have a calming effect. It allows our worries fade away and our focus sharpens. This meditative quality can significantly reduce stress & anxiety, leaving you feeling centred and relaxed.
 

In Need of a Confidence Boost?: 

As you master new techniques and witness your beautiful creations come to life, you'll feel a sense of accomplishment which will build confidence and fuel your creative side. Crochet allows you to express yourself through colour, texture and design, fostering a sense of pride and artistic fulfillment.
 

Improved Dexterity and Cognitive Function:

Crocheting requires fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination. The repetitive motions of crocheting can improve your dexterity and the flexibility in your hands and fingers (especially beneficial as we age). Furthermore, crochet stimulates both sides of the brain which enhances concentration, memory retention & overall brain function.
 

A Sense of Community:

The crochet community is a  welcoming community. By joining online forums, attending local crochet groups, or even simply connecting with fellow crocheters on social media, you'll have a sense of belonging and connection.
Sharing your work, exchanging tips, and learning from others creates a mutually supportive network which can combat feelings of isolation & loneliness. I dedicated a whole blog post to this topic earlier in the year, if you missed that you can read it here.
 

The Joy of Giving:  

Crochet allows you to create beautiful, handmade gifts for loved ones. The simple act of gifting something you've made yourself expresses your love and care in a very real way. I know that my immediate family & friends truly appreciate all the wooly gifts I've given them over the years.
If you crochet for charity it allows you to contribute to a good cause and make a positive impact on the lives of other people.
 
So, next time you pick up your hook think about all the ways in which crochet is enhancing your overall wellbeing! It may be a simple craft but crochet has profound benefits for your mind and body.

Crochet Pattern Suggestions:

Here are a few pattern suggestions from me, all of which you can find by browsing my Ravelry store or my website. One of my favourite projects for relaxing has got to be a crochet blanket and I have 3 patterns available on my blog, the most popular one is Scrappy Blanket III.

If you're looking for a quicker project than a blanket, then I'd suggest my In The Groove cushion cover (above). It has an easy to remember pattern repeat which you can easily immerse yourself in. Find the pattern here on my website and here on Ravelry.

We're finally coming into some warmer weather here in the UK, so if you're after a mindful crochet pattern which will give you a pretty shawl as a result, look no further than my Lazy Days Wrap (below)! It has a simple, easy-to-remember repeat which is suitable from confident beginner up. Find the pattern here on my website and here on Ravelry.

I hope this has been a useful blog post for you, detailing just how good crochet is for our wellbeing! If you have questions about any of my patterns, please ask, I'm happy to help!

Until next time,

Marta xx

Your Guide to Joining Crochet Like a Pro

 Seamingly Seamless: Mastering the Art of Joining

Hello! If you've been crocheting for a while, you'll probably have come across a project where you needed to join pieces of crochet together - perhaps granny squares to make a blanket or maybe panels of crochet to form a garment. In this blog post I'm going to share my tips for joining crochet which will help you achieve a really professional look to your finished items.

Just like choosing the right stitch for your project, selecting the perfect joining method is key. Here are a few popular choices:

The Whip Stitch: 

Go grab your tapestry needle! This classic sewing technique wraps around your 2 edges. Simply sew across the top of the two pieces to be joined, working the needle in the same direction. You can use a contrast colour to add a decorative touch.

The Crochet Join: 

A fast and sturdy option for squares or panels. I like this method because you're continuing with your hook! You either slip stitch or double crochet (UK)/ single crochet (US) through both pieces of crochet. If it's squares it's through the back loop only of the square nearest one to you and the front loop only of the square behind. This join can either be worked on the wrong side (where it shows up like sewn stitches on the right side), or on the right side to add a defined ridge to your work. 

Personally, I LOVE the appearance of the ridge on the right side and this is my go-to join for blankets. It's also the joining method I used on my Counterbalance Sweater to accentuate the joins between the different textures. This pattern is currently exclusive to Moorit, issue 6, which is on sale now!

I have a video tutorial demonstrating this join which you can watch on YouTube.

image courtesy of Amelia Claudia Photography

The Mattress Stitch: 

Another sewn join, this invisible hero creates a seamless look, which is perfect when you want to conceal your joins. If you're looking to create a really professional finish, this join is much better than using whip stitch. It's used mostly in garments and other items of clothing such as hats and cowls. 

I used the mattress stitch join on my Counterbalance Sweater for sewing up the side seams to create an all round look to the garment.

I made a video tutorial demonstrating this join which you can find on my YouTube channel.

Other joining methods: 

Dig around and you'll find there are many other joining methods, particularly for granny square type motifs. For example, there's the join-as-you-go method (often called JAYGO) which is fab if the idea of joining all your squares at the end of a project daunts you.

Pro tip: 

Whether you are sewing or crocheting your pieces together, keep your tension even. Too tight and you'll pucker your work, too loose and there will be gaps. Seek out that sweet, Goldilocks spot and your crochet will shine!

In conclusion: 

The different joins all have their uses. If you're newer to crochet it's probably best to stick with the suggested join in your pattern. Once you know what you're doing, play around and try them out because over time you'll find which ones work best for you. 

I hope this has been a useful blog post for you. If you like these tips, please consider signing up to my mailing list, when you do so, you'll automatically be sent my PDF with 25 top tips that every crocheter should know! 

Until next time, happy crocheting,

Marta xx

Crafting with Care: Crocheting for Babies & Toddlers

 Crocheting For Babies & Toddlers: Safety Considerations

Hello! Let's imagine you've picked out the perfect pattern, chosen the cutest yarn, and your crochet hook is poised – you're ready to create something special for a little one! But before you dive in, it's important to consider safety. Here are some key things to keep in mind when crocheting for babies and toddlers:
 

Yarn 

• Material Matters: Choose soft, breathable yarns like cotton, wool or bamboo. Avoid yarn with loose fibres which may become a choking hazard - opt for more tightly spun yarn.

• Skip the Frills: Resist the urge to use novelty yarns with beads, sequins, or other embellishments. These can become choking hazards.

• Fire Safety: Choose yarns that meet fire safety regulations, especially for items used around sleep. Check the ball band for details.

• As an extra consideration, think about washability. We all know how babies and toddlers like to spill things! Choose machine washable yarns for easy care.

Choking Hazards

• Bye-bye Buttons: Consider embroidered closures or details as a safer alternative. If you must use buttons, sew them on securely with strong thread. 

• Eye Spy: For amigurumi, use safety eyes specifically designed for children's toys. Embroidered eyes are another safe option.

• Loose Ends: Always weave in yarn ends securely to prevent them from unraveling and becoming a choking hazard.

• Double check seams: Take time to examine any areas you have joined together, reinforcing them if necessary.

• Strings & Cords: Long strings & cords are a potential strangulation risk. Keep these short to eliminate risk.

Cuddly and Safe

• Pattern Play: Avoid open lace patterns or anything with large gaps where fingers or toes could get caught.

• Blanket Best Practices: Crochet blankets are wonderful for supervised tummy time or car seat use, but avoid using them in cribs or for unsupervised sleep.

• The Perfect Fit: Make sure clothing items aren't too loose, which could be a tripping hazard, or too tight, which could restrict movement.

General Safety Tips 

• Never leave a child unattended with a crocheted item.

• Wash crocheted items before gifting them. This removes any residues from the yarn manufacturing process and any potential allergens which you may have left on the item.

• Consider the baby or toddlers's age and developmental stage when choosing a design.

Conclusion 

 
By following these simple safety tips, you can create beautiful and cherished crocheted items that are also safe for babies & toddlers to enjoy. Crocheting for little ones can be so rewarding because we can look forward to their happy faces and how cute they will look in our creations. So, apply my tips, use your common sense and don't forget to have fun!
 

Inspiration for you

Looking for crochet pattern inspiration for a baby or toddler? I'm currently expanding my collection, but I do have two suitable cardigan patterns; To The Park Cardigan (at the top of this email) and my Fields of Lavendar Cardigan (top left above). My Mavis Mitts and Saturday Beanie are available in baby & toddler sizes too (above).

I hope this has been a useful blog post for you. If you like these tips, please consider signing up to my mailing list, when you do so, you'll automatically be sent my PDF with 25 top tips that every crocheter should know! 

Until next time, happy crocheting,

Marta xx

From Spring Into Autumn: Cosy Crochet Socks Pattern Launch!

Cosy Crochet Socks Pattern Launch!

Hello! Get ready to step into comfort and style with my Spring Into Autumn Socks crochet pattern! Originally this design featured in the October 2022 Crate Crochet subscription box - I'm pleased to announce that it's now available for everyone!

These fun socks feature a unique puff stitch cuff design on the cuffs which adds a touch of texture to this practical & stretchy part of the sock.
 
This is my 9th crocheted sock pattern and each time I've designed a pair I've built on my experience and feedback from crocheters. I've been improving to create the perfect fit and stretch for you, ensuring all-day comfort from your first stitch to your last.

 

Here's what makes this pattern special:

• There are 6 video tutorials to guide you through every step, from cuff to toe

• It's designed in 10ply/ aran weight yarn, so they work up fast!

• Unique and textured puff stitch cuff for a touch of whimsy

• Comfortable fit and stretch for all-day wear

• Intermediate level pattern, perfect for crocheters with some experience

• It's written in both UK and US terms 

• Fun contrast cuffs & toes!

I mentioned above that they're designed in 10ply/ aran weight yarn; I used Manos del Uruguay Alegria Grande (180m/ 100g, 75% superwash merino/ 25% nylon), which I love! This yarn comes in 100g skeins and 25g mini skeins which makes it easy to combine colours to create contrast toes, cuffs and heels! It also makes this pattern a potential stash buster! Hooray!
 
Ready to crochet your own pair of cosy & stylish socks? I'm offering you the early bird discount of 15% off for the first week! Use the code AUTUMN at the checkout on my website and on Ravelry!
This could be your new project for the weekend - start crocheting my Spring Into Autumn Socks pattern today!

Any questions? Please reach out to me and ask, I'm more than happy to help you.

Happy Crocheting,

Marta xx
 

New To My Website: Project Notes Printable

Hello! Question for you: are scattered notes and forgotten details getting in the way of your crochet and knitting process? We've all been there! I used to have notes here there and everywhere!

I've put together a tool to help you take control - my new Project Notes Printable - you'll be so much more organised with everything jotted down in one place. There's plenty of room for writing and any sketches or doodles you may wish to make. I've created the heading in an outline font for you to colour in too!

 

The image below shows you how your print out will look (obviously without the word "sample" going across it) - it's time to say goodbye to hunting for lost notes and hello to a fun & streamlined crafting experience! 

 

Download your Project Notes Printable today and enjoy 30% off for this weekend only! Use the code PRINTABLE at the checkout on my website. Offer ends 23:59, Sunday 7th April, 2024.

Take your crocheting to the next level! Join my email list and instantly unlock my exclusive PDF with 25 crocheting secrets you won't find anywhere else. Plus, you'll be the first to snag deeper discounts on patterns and supplies (my subscribers just scored a whopping 50% off this printable!).

Don't miss out! Sign up today and watch your crochet skills soar.

Until next time, happy crocheting,

Marta xx