As a crocheter, you probably have a yarn stash that’s been growing over time. While you might be tempted to keep buying new yarn, why not try some new crafts that utilize the yarn you already have? Here are some fun and easy crafts to try! Just click on the photo for the Free Craft Pattern from Lion Brand Yarn!
Tassel Keychains – Tassel keychains are a simple and cute accessory that you can make with just a few materials. All you need is some yarn, a keyring, and a pair of scissors. You can make them in various colors and sizes, and they make great gifts for friends and family.
Pom-Pom Garland – A pom-pom garland is a fun and colorful decoration that you can make to brighten up any space. You can make pom-poms in various sizes and colors and string them together using a needle and some yarn. Hang them on your wall, over a doorway, or even on your Christmas tree!
Coasters – Coasters are a practical and easy-to-make craft that you can use around your home. You can make them in various shapes and sizes, and they’re a great way to use up small amounts of yarn. Plus, they make great gifts for housewarming parties or hostess gifts.
Mug Cozies – Mug cozies are a cozy and practical accessory for any coffee or tea lover. You can make them in various colors and sizes, and they’re a great way to use up some of your thicker yarns. Plus, they’ll keep your hands from getting too hot while you sip your drink.
Wall Hangings – Wall hangings are a trendy and fun way to decorate your home. You can make them in various colors and patterns, and they’re a great way to use up some of your chunkier yarns. You can even add some fringe or tassels for extra texture.
These are just a few of the fun and easy crafts that you can make with your yarn stash. The possibilities are endless, so get creative and see what you can come up with. Remember to have fun and enjoy the process, and happy crafting!
Crochet is more than just a hobby – it can be a powerful tool for managing stress and anxiety. In fact, research shows that engaging in creative activities like crochet can have a positive impact on mental health. In this post, we’ll explore the many benefits of crochet for mental health, from reducing stress to promoting mindfulness.
Crochet as a Stress-Reliever
For many people, crochet is a form of meditation that allows them to take a break from the stresses of everyday life. When you crochet, your mind is focused on the task at hand, and you can let go of your worries for a little while.
Studies have shown that engaging in activities that require focus and concentration, like crochet, can help reduce cortisol levels in the body. Cortisol is a hormone that’s released in response to stress, and high levels can contribute to anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. By reducing cortisol levels through crochet, you can help alleviate the symptoms of stress and anxiety.
Crochet can also be a mindfulness practice, which involves being present at the moment and fully engaged with your surroundings. When you crochet, you’re focused on the feel of the yarn, the movement of the hook, and the pattern you’re following.
Mindfulness is an effective way to manage anxiety and depression. By practicing mindfulness through crochet, you can learn to let go of negative thoughts and emotions and focus on the present moment.
For many people, crochet is a creative outlet that allows them to express themselves in a way that’s both productive and enjoyable. You feel a sense of accomplishment and pride when you create something with two hands.
Creating something beautiful and tangible can help boost your self-esteem and improve your mood. Plus, crochet is a beginner-friendly craft, which means anyone can start creating their own projects with just a few simple stitches. Whether you’re a beginner looking to make a crochet afghan or an experienced crocheter looking to challenge yourself with a more complex pattern, there’s something for everyone in the crochet world.
Crochet is a wonderful way to promote mental health and well-being. Engaging in this calming and creative hobby can reduce stress and anxiety, practice mindfulness, and express your creativity. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced crocheter, there’s never been a better time to pick up your hook and start stitching.
So why not try a beginner crochet project, like a cozy crochet afghan, and see how this craft can benefit your mental health? Your mind and body will thank you for it!
Crochet is a timeless craft that has been enjoyed by generations of women. In the 1970s, crochet experienced a surge in popularity, as people embraced DIY culture and sought to express their creativity in new ways. In this blog post, we’ll take a trip down memory lane and explore the history of crochet in the 1970s.
The Rise of Beginner Crochet
The 1970s marked the rise of beginner crochet, as more and more people became interested in learning the craft. Crochet patterns and instruction books became widely available, and beginners could find guidance in magazines and newspapers. Women of all ages were drawn to crochet, and it became a popular pastime for young and old alike. Crochet also became a form of self-expression, as people used the craft to create unique and personalized items.
Crochet Fashion Trends
Crochet fashion was a big trend in the 1970s. Clothing, accessories, and home decor items were all adorned with crochet. Crochet vests, ponchos, and dresses were popular clothing items, while crocheted afghans were a staple in many households. The popularity of crochet fashion was also reflected in pop culture, as celebrities like Cher and Stevie Nicks were often seen wearing crochet clothing.
The Legacy of the Crochet Afghan
The crochet afghan is one of the most iconic crochet items of the 1970s. These colorful and cozy blankets were often made as gifts for friends and family, and many people still cherish afghans made by loved ones. The popularity of crochet afghans also had a social component, as they were often made in groups by women who gathered to share patterns and techniques. Today, crochet afghans continue to be a beloved and cherished item, with many people passing down family heirlooms from generation to generation.
Crochet in the 1970s was a time of creativity, self-expression, and community. Beginner crochet became popular, fashion trends embraced crochet, and the crochet afghan became a beloved staple in many households. Today, these trends continue to inspire and inform modern crochet culture. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, the history of crochet in the 1970s is a testament to the enduring appeal of this timeless craft.
Chevron blankets are my absolute fav, and the Chev Throw by Rohn Strong is a great example of a modern twist on a classic pattern. With a little nod to the past, this easy-to-stitch blanket makes quick work of simple stitches. The Chev Throw is worked as an extra long chevron with two colors in alternating double crochet mesh and single crochet, creating a beautiful texture and pattern. This pattern is perfect for beginner crocheters looking to make a statement piece or for more experienced crafters looking for a quick and easy project. The Chev Throw is a great way to pay homage to the history of crochet while embracing the modern and contemporary style of today’s crochet culture.
It’s a new year *waves wildly* and I’m so excited to start the year off with a new FREE CROCHET PATTERN! It’s a simply lil’ blankie with a couple cool twists that keep it from being too boring.
Here’s the good stuff:
Buy the PDF of this pattern Here (It really helps me keep designing these awesome blankets for you all when you purchase a pattern!)
Buy the Kit Here (This is an affiliate link which means I make a little bit when you buy through it at no cost to you.)
Nothing says, “I love you but I totally forgot about you…” like a last minute gift! This little blanket works up in no time and can be made with any combo of any three colors! It’s a simple 2-row repeat that won’t overwhelm you and creates a stunning blanket. Make it as big or as small as you’d like!
Finished Measurements Yarn included in kit is enough to complete a blanket about 40 inches wide
Gauge About 4 sts and 1 rows = 1 inch in Double Crochet fd
Materials Yarn Lion Brand Basic Stitch Anti Pilling Yarn (100% Acrylic Worsted Weight Yarn; 185 (153 in prints, 157 in moulines)/1170 (140 in prints, 144 in moulines); 3.5oz (3oz in prints/moulines)/100g (85g in prints/moulines)) 3 skeins Steel Blue (202 – 109) 3 skeins Frost (202 – 105) 3 skeins Two Pines (202 – 208)
Hook US K/6.5mm Crochet Hook or size needed to obtain gauge
Notions Tapestry Needle
PATTERN
Change colors every 2 rounds, beginning and ending with the desired color. This is a great scrap busting project too!
Ch 4 Rnd 1: Dc in 4th ch from hook, (ch 4, 2dc) 7 times, ch 4, join to top of beg ch 4 with a sl st. (16 dc, 8 ch-spaces)
Rnd 2: Sl st into next ch-4 sp, ch 3 (counts as first dc here and throughout), 3dc in same ch-space, (4dc in next ch sp) 7 times, join to top of beg ch-3. (32 dc) Rnd 3: Sl st into next dc, ch 1, sc in space between current dc and next dc, *ch 4, dc in 4th ch from hook, sk next 2dc sts, sc in next space between stitches; rep from * around. (16 ch-4 spaces)
Rnd 4 and all even rnds: Sl st into next ch-4 space, ch 3, 3dc in same sp, (ch 2, 4dc in next ch sp) around to last ch-space, ch 2, join to top of beg ch 3.
Rnd 5: Sl st into next dc, ch 1, sc in space between current dc and next dc, *ch 4, dc in 4th ch from hook, sk next 2dc sts, sc in next ch-2 space, ch 4, dc in 4th ch from hook, sk next 4 dc sts, sc in next ch-2 space, ch 4, dc in 4th ch from hook, sk next 2 dc, sc in space between dc sts; rep from * around. (32 ch-4 spaces)
Rnd 7: Sl st into next dc, ch 1, sc in space between current dc and next dc, *ch 4, dc in 4th ch from hook, sk next 2dc sts, (sc in next ch-2 space, ch 4, dc in 4th ch from hook, sk next 4 dc sts) twice, sc in next ch-2 space, ch 4, dc in 4th ch from hook, sk next 2 dc, sc in space between dc sts; rep from * around. (40 ch-4 spaces)
Rnd 9: Sl st into next dc, ch 1, sc in space between current dc and next dc, *ch 4, dc in 4th ch from hook, sk next 2dc sts, (sc in next ch-2 space, ch 4, dc in 4th ch from hook, sk next 4 dc sts) three times, sc in next ch-2 space, ch 4, dc in 4th ch from hook, sk next 2 dc, sc in space between dc sts; rep from * around. (48 ch-4 spaces)
Rnd 11: Sl st into next dc, ch 1, sc in space between current dc and next dc, *ch 4, dc in 4th ch from hook, sk next 2dc sts, (sc in next ch-2 space, ch 4, dc in 4th ch from hook, sk next 4 dc sts) three times, sc in next ch-2 space, ch 4, dc in 4th ch from hook, sk next 2 dc, sc in space between dc sts; rep from * around. (54 ch-4 spaces)
Rnd 13: Sl st into next dc, ch 1, sc in space between current dc and next dc, *ch 4, dc in 4th ch from hook, sk next 2dc sts, (sc in next ch-2 space, ch 4, dc in 4th ch from hook, sk next 4 dc sts) three times, sc in next ch-2 space, ch 4, dc in 4th ch from hook, sk next 2 dc, sc in space between dc sts; rep from * around. (62 ch-4 spaces)
Continue to work as established, increasing 8 ch-4 spaces every even round. This will create a blanket that can be made as large (or as small) as desired. Weave in ends as your work progresses. Stop working after an odd row.
Final Row: Working from left to right, work 2 reverse single crochet stitches into last ch-space completed, *ch 4, sk next 4 dc, work 2 reverse single crochet stitches into the next ch space; rep from * around. Join to first st with a sl st. Fasten off. Wash and lay flat to block.
It is here friends! Our last rounds on this giant mandala! We only have three rounds to focus on and, while there are a number of stitches to worry about, it’s pretty smooth sailing at this point!
Last Rounds:
Rnd 1: Join Color A in marked st, ch 3 (counts as first dc), tr in next ch sp, tr4tog in last two sts of current scallop and first two sts of next scallop, *tr in next ch sp, dc in each of the next 4 sts, hdc in each of the next 33 sts, dc in each of the next 4 sts**, tr in next ch sp, tr4tog; rep from * around ending last rep at **, join to beg ch-3 with a sl st. Fasten off.
Rnd 2: Join Color C with a sl st in same st as join, ch 2, fpdc around post of same st as join, *sk next tr4tog, fpdc around post of next st, (sk next st, fpdc around post of next st) twice, hdc in each of the next 4 sts, working in 3rd loop of hdc on Rnd 1, sc in each of the next 25 sts, hdc in each of the next 4 sts, (fpdc around post of the next st, sk next st) twice**, fpdc around post of next st; rep from * around, ending last rep at **, join to first fpdc with a sl st. Fasten off.
Rnd 3: Join Color B in fpdc one stitch to the right of join, *dc4tog, dc in next st, hdc in each of the next 4 sts, working behind last two rounds, (dc in next 2 dc on Row 8 of Scallop, sk 2 sts on current rnd, sc in each of the next 2 sts) six times, dc in next 2 dc on Row 8 of Scallop, sk 1 st on current round, hdc in each of the next four sts, dc in next st; rep from * around, join to first dc4tog with a sl st. Fasten off.
Rohn Strong 