Top 5 YouTube Channels for Crochet

Hello! I'm sharing 5 top YouTube podcast channels because in today’s technological age, this digital platform has become an invaluable resource for crocheters of all levels (in fact, I bet many of you even learnt via YouTube!). From new stitches to discovering inspiring projects, there's a vast wealth of knowledge and creative possibilities, all at your fingertips. However I believe that crochet podcasts have become more than just a source of inspiration; they foster a sense of community, connecting crocheters worldwide through shared passions, tips, and stories, creating lasting friendships along the way.

This post aims to shine the spotlight on five exceptional YouTube channels that deliver top-notch crochet podcasts, sharing reliable and engaging crochet content. These are the crocheters I turn to again and again when I'm looking for company whilst I stitch away myself and they give me so much inspiration, I love them and I hope you do too! Without further ado and in no particular order (I couldn't possibly choose a favourite!), here are some incredible crochet channels.

Catherine Crochets: Colourful Creations and Crochet Know-How: 

Catherine is a London based crocheter & designer who creates beautiful blankets, home décor items and accessories. She specialises in colourwork designs, and tapestry crochet in particular (she has many tutorials for this on her channel too). Catherine recently took up knitting, so there's a bit of that in the mix too to keep things interesting. I enjoy the quiet, gentle pace of her podcasts, I feel like I have a yarn loving friend chatting away beside me. You'll find Catherine on YouTube here.

Crochet Luna: From California with Love: 

Claudia is originally from El Salvador and is currently living in California. Her channel is mostly crochet with a little knitting too. She uses really beautiful yarns and is a big fan of my Fabulous Socks! pattern (her last few episodes have featured them which is always fun for me to see!). Claudia also has an Etsy shop where she sells projects bags, scissor fobs and the many pins and mugs she has designed. I love her down-to-earth advice, she always says "make what you love!", I'm sure you'll enjoy her channel too, find it here.

Sunbird Crochet: Colourful Crochet Magic from Germany: 

Claudia has become a really good friend of mine over the last few years, it feels as though there is no distance between us at all. She is a german crocheter with exceedingly good english, no subtitles required! One of the things she is best known for is taking colourwork knitting patterns and interpreting them in crochet form - they work out beautifully! Claudia is getting ready to celebrate 4 years on the channel, 4 years of sharing her fabulous finished garments - so many colourful yokes to behold! She shares a lot of yarn related purchases too which are always interesting to see. Be sure to check out Claudia's channel here, you won't be disappointed!

Cosy Cottage Crochet: A Mother's Yarny Journey: 

Hannah's podcast is all about crochet, a little bit of knitting and sewing, and generally living the yarniest life possible in St. Petersburg, Florida, where she lives! Her episodes are always a rollercosaster of a ride with her yarny adventures shared amidst the backdrop of her life a mum bringing up 2 very small children. Hannah creates in lots of different types of yarn which is fascinating to see and hear about. Sometimes she'll use exquisite hand-dyed wool with yak or cashmere and at the opposite end she'll happily use acrylic and shout about it's benefits, I love it! Watch Hannah's podcast here.

And finally, a shameless plug for my own podcast: 

I've been podcasting for nearly 3 years now and it makes me so happy to gather up all the things I'm working on to share with you! I try to make it feel as though I'm having a chat with each individual viewer, whether that's showing you my latest crochet hat WiP or demonstrating the stretch in a finished pair of socks, I like to think you're by my side. My channel is mostly made up of podcasts, I'm building a library of crochet stitch tutorials there too. Join me on my colourful adventures here!

These are just a few of my favourites, I'll share some more in a future post - there's a whole world of crochet wisdom and inspiration waiting for you on YouTube! I hope I've given you a starting point for discovering new techniques, projects, and a supportive community. Remember, everyone's crochet journey is unique;  ask yarny friends for recommendations, find channels YOU like, and most importantly, soak it all up!

 
So, go make your favouite drink, put on your headphones, and explore these amazing crochet podcasts. 
 
Which channel are you most excited to check out? Let me know in the comments!
Until next time, happy viewing and happy crocheting,

Marta xx

Show Notes: Podcast Episode 57: My Musings on the Stephen West #SSAL24

Podcast Episode 57: Show Notes:

Hello! I have a new short and sweet podcast episode uploaded to YouTube! Sorry if I talk a little too fast, I had been out for lunch with my mum, my youngest and my niece and had had a strong cup of coffee!

Color Popportunity Socks Review: My #SSAL2024 Experience:

I've finished knitting the Color Popportunity Socks by Stephen West, the #SSAL2024. I both loved and hated these socks at different stages of the journey! The leg was my favourite part, the texture is so unique. Find the pattern on Ravelry here. 

I bought my kit with yarn from Twisted Ambitions Yarn on the Stephen & Penelope website.

Colourful beginnings: The Printer Ink Scarf in Sealy MacWheely minis:

A newly started project in this episode is a Printer Ink Scarf which I’m working up in gorgeous minis from Sealy MacWheely! I could not think where Katie’s shop was situated as I was talking - it is in fact Kirkintilloch! Here’s the link to the online shop where you’ll find the details of the bricks & mortar shop too!

From Cone to Sweater: My Little Bousta Yoke Journey:

The knitted jumper I’m working on is the Little Bousta Yoke by Gudrun Johnston. I'm using Shetland jumper weight wool from various sources, some from old cones, some Jamieson's which I purchased in The Woolly Brew, Pittenweem. Find the pattern on Ravelry here.

Tay Beanie: Coming Soon!:

The new crocheted beanie which I've designed is currently with my tech editor and my team of lovely testers. I’ve called it the Tay Beanie, and it’s crocheted in The Scottish Yarn Festival's Clan DK in the colourway Sinclair. Find the yarn and all the info on the festival on September 7th on their website. Next week I'll be sharing a yarn review of the Clan DK so keep your eye out for that if you're interested in this yarn!

Finally:

If I've missed anything or you'd like more info, please do give me a shout! 

Until the next episode, happy crocheting,

Marta xx

PS. If you’d like to be kept up to date with the release of my next video, sign up to my newsletter to stay in the loop! There’s so much crochet goodness coming your way when you do!

Stitching Through Summer: A July Recap

 

Hello! It was both a busy and beautiful July! There was warm weather here on the east coast of Scotland at last and it was so good to spend time crocheting in my garden. I hope you've had a chance to soak up the sunshine too, wherever you are in the world. With summer in full swing, I've been keeping very active in my crochet business and I thought I'd share my July highlights with you.

Blog Post Highlight:
This month, the blog post which saw the most love was my "Ultimate Guide to Crocheting Socks". I pulled together all my knowledge and experience of crocheting socks into one juicy blog post and you guys loved it! It seems like many of you were eager to dip your toes into sock-making, and I’m so happy to be able to help you on your journey. Whether you’re a seasoned sock crocheter looking to improve your skills or a complete newbie, there’s a wee nugget of wisdom in there for everyone. Check it out here.

Social Media Spotlight:
I was surprised to find that the Instagram post with the most reach (views) was the image I shared of my yarn kit from Stephen & Penelope for the Westknits Surprise Sock Along! This is a month long, mystery sock knitting project with 1 clue being released each Tuesday (as I type it's Tuesday and I'll be straight off to look at clue 4 when I've finished this blog post!). I'm using yarn from Twisted Ambitions Yarn, based in the USA and I am in love with the vibrant colours. If you're not following my journey on Instagram, you can find me at @marta.mitchell.designs

My Bestselling Crochet Pattern:
Not surprisingly, with my own summer CAL running throughout this month, my most popular pattern was my Lazy Days Shortie Socks. I've created a lovely community for this CAL, we've been sharing photos and encouragement on Instagram and we've even had a couple of Zoom meet-ups! I'm hearing from those following the pattern that they're enjoying the simple stitches as a way to bring calm after stressful days at work or busy life circumstances, and I am so pleased to have been able to provide that release for them.
My discount code LAZYDAYSCAL is still running and it's not too late to come and join us! You can purchase the full kit on my website or the pattern on Ravelry. and the code LAZYDAYS gives you 10% off!
 
You Loved This Video:
It looks like you really enjoyed my latest podcast episode on YouTube, and I'm so glad! It's been a huge hit this month, perhaps because after my short break from podcasting I had more energy and felt more inspired about sharing my work! I showed off the yoke of a fairisle cardigan I'm knitting, my Parallel Lines Wrap (it was pattern release day!), my Battenberg Blanket, a new crocheted beanie I'm designing and a few other projects.If you haven't watched episode 56 yet (released last Friday), you can watch it via the embedded link below.

Crochet Shawl Pattern Release:
If you received last week's email, you'll know that I released my Parallel Lines Wrap (top photo), an Advent mini skeins crochet project. I'm really pleased with how this pattern worked out and I am particularly fond of all the photos. A HUGE thank you to everyone who took advantage of my exclusive early bird discount offer, I was absolutely AMAZED at your response to this pattern! Sorry to anyone who missed out (the code was only for the first 50 orders), consider subscribing to my mailing list to keep your eye out for future offers!

If you're currently crocheting up any of my patterns or have a finished Marta Mitchell Designs project, don't forget to share on social media. You can use the tag #martamitchelldesigns and tag me @marta.mitchell.designs to make sure I see it, I do LOVE to see your work!

Stay tuned for more crochet goodness in August! Until next time, happy crocheting,

Marta xx

A Shawl Pattern For Advent Mini Skeins!

Hello! Are you ready to dig into your yarn stash? Because I'm really pleased to announce the release of my brand new crochet pattern, the Parallel Lines Wrap! Yes, it has a name at last - chosen via an Instagram competition by husband and wife duo, Peter & Sue. I'm delighted with this name, it encompases both the shape and the repetitive nature of this mindful project.
 
This wrap pattern is perfect for anyone who has leftover mini skeins from an Advent calendar (or any random bits of yarn you've been saving for a special project). The easy-to-learn repeat makes it ideal for both confident beginners and experienced crocheters, and, thinking ahead here, it's the perfect way to unwind during the busy festive season (or indeed any time of year!).
 
Here are all the things you'll want to know about the pattern:

• Crochet pattern written in UK & US terms.

• Available on my website and on Ravelry.

• If you purchase from my website your download will include a link to add the pattern to your Ravelry library if you wish to do so.

• Yarn requirements: 24x 20g sock yarn mini skeins (4ply yarn, 425g per 100m, 75% superwash merino/ 25% nylon). 

• I chose minis from The Hobbit Advent calendar by Skein & The Stitch for my version and used approximately 14g of each colour.

• You'll need a 5mm crochet hook (much bigger than your usual hook for 4ply yarn!)

• The pattern is formed by a combination of V stitches and clusters.

• It has a 4 row mindful pattern repeat.

• Just like me, you'll love the surprise and delight of adding each new colour!

• 
  

Did I miss anything? Leave me your questions in the comments, I'm happy to help!
 
Early bird offer! I'm giving you 25% off my pattern this weekend only!! Use the code EARLYBIRD on both my website and Ravelry. 
 
Hurry, Parallel Lines Wrap pattern is only available at this discounted price until 11.59 BST, Sunday 29th July 2024. Don't let those leftover minis gather dust any longer – transform them into a stunning shawl you'll love! Head over to my website or Ravelry to snag your copy before this early bird offer flies away.

Any questions, please leave me a comment or send me an email crochet@martamitchelldesigns.com and I'll get back to you.

Happy crocheting,

Marta xx

 

How To Weave In Ends On Granny Squares

Hello! Have you ever finished a beautiful granny square (or ten!), only to be faced with the dreaded task of weaving in all those ends? I can assure you, we've all been there! I'm here with advice to banish your end-weaving woes and turn you into a pro! After this blog post, you'll be able to conquer all those those pesky yarn tails, leaving your granny squares looking polished and ready to take on the world (or get made into a cosy blanket at last!).

What I do is take each end (one from the centre, one from the corner) and weave them towards each other, taking care to keep this hidden on the wrong side. I then tie them in a reef knot before weaving them in, first one way, then doubling back. I've been using this same method for about 10 years and I can report that it's a releable method for securing ends, none of my blankets have come apart.

 

The easiest way for me to explain the above method is video, so there's a YouTube tutorial which will walk you through my exact method for securing those pesky yarn tails on solid granny squares. The beauty of my technique is that it applies to multiple colour squares as well! The only difference is that with more colours, you'll have less distance to weave in your ends since the gap between ends will be shorter.

 

So, for a more visual demonstration, watch the YouTube video below where I'll walk you through the entire process step-by-step.  

Did you find these tips helpful for conquering those granny square ends? If you're eager to crochet smarter, not harder, consider joining my mailing list! You'll get exclusive access to tonnes of great content, plus a bonus PDF with 25 essential crocheting tips delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up today and unlock a world of crochet goodness!

Until next time, happy crocheting,

Marta xx

Something Refreshingly Different: Cucumber & Mint Infused Water

  

Hello! Here is something refreshingly different from me this week: I'm sharing my recipe for a cool drink to have at your side as you crochet this summer! As I type this, it's a rainy Wednesday morning, but we have actually had a few warmer days lately here on the east coast of Scotland, let's hope there are more to come! Anyway, here's my simple recipe, I hope you like it!

Cucumber & Mint Infused Water:

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Chill Time: 1 hour + (the longer it chills, the stronger the flavour)

Servings: 4
 

Ingredients: 

1/2 cucumber

Small handful of mint leaves

1 liter of water

Ice cubes (optional)

Instructions:

Wash and thinly slice your cucumber. 

Wash and gently bash your mint leaves.

Pop the sliced cucumber and mint leaves in a jug.

Pour in about a litre of water and stir gently to combine.

Cover and refrigerate for at least an hour.

To serve, fill a glass with the infused water and add ice cubes (if you like!).

This delightful drink is not only light and hydrating, but the subtle flavours of cucumber and mint add a touch of spa-like serenity to your crafting session. Plus, it's incredibly easy to make – perfect for whipping up a jug in the morning to have on hand for an afternoon of crochet in the garden. So, make up a jug, choose your latest crochet WiP (possibly the hardest part of this whole process!), and enjoy!

Until next week, happy crocheting,

Marta xx

PS. I hope this has been a fun blog post for you! Please consider signing up to my mailing list, lots more good stuff coming your way and when you do, you'll automatically be sent my PDF with 25 top tips that every crocheter should know! 
 
 

Your Ultimate Guide To Crocheting Socks

Hello! Over the last few weeks, with my Lazy Days Shortie Sock CAL on the horizon, I've received quite a few questions from subscribers and followers about crocheting socks. So, with this in mind I've created a round up blog post: a resource you can use if you need any information about crocheting socks. It pulls all my years of knowledge & experience, all my techniques & skills together in one place for you. 

Sock it to Me: Measuring Feet for the Perfect Fit: Let's start at the beginning with how to properly measure feet for socks. I pulled my dad in to help with the video to accompany this blog post! This step is super important to get right if you want to create a sock that fits well and feels comfortable all day long. Read post here.

Demystifying Sock Crochet Terms: No More Head-Scratching!: You have your pattern, but help! What on earth do all these terms mean? Don't worry, this blog post demistifies them all for you, no more struggling to decipher abbreviations or confusing techniques. Read post here.

My Pro Crochet Sock Tips: Here's a blog post with my top 5 tips for crocheting socks, a good one to refer to for some sound advice. These tips will help you avoid common mistakes and make the sock crocheting process a smoother and more enjoyable one. Read post here.

Designing Crochet Socks that Fit: A Resource for Designers: If you are a crochet designer, or a budding crochet designer, I have a blog post dedicated to designing crochet socks that FIT. It has some useful pointers for crocheters too about achieving the fit you want. Read post here.

Choosing Colours and Yarn for Perfect Crochet Socks: My oldest crochet sock blog post is from a blog hop back in 2018 (yes, I've been blogging a LONG time!). The topic is choosing colours for socks and has lots of useful tips in it. Read post here.

5 Must-Try Crochet Sock Patterns: Looking for more crochet sock patterns to try? I have a round up blog post with 5 of the best, all tried and tested by me! My top 5 feature a variety of sock styles and difficulty levels, so there's something for everyone. Read post here.

I really hope this round up is useful for you! If you'd like to receive my weekly wisdom on all things crochet, consider subscribing to my mailing list here.

Until next time, happy crocheting,

Marta xx