Crochet

Patterns, projects and techniques

Book Review – Crochet A Garden

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As someone who has never been able to keep a plant alive, I was immediately drawn to the Leisure Arts Make A Crochet Garden eBook when I saw it on the shelf. The collection of unique and adorable projects promised by the book had me hooked (pun intended).

Upon opening the book, I was pleasantly surprised to find a wide range of projects to choose from – from cactus coasters and dish scrubbers to a hanging garden and a succulent table runner. The instructions were clear and easy to follow, with simple stitches worked in a round.

As I browsed through the patterns, I couldn’t help but think about all the plants I’ve tried (and failed) to keep alive over the years. But these crochet succulents, cacti, and flowers seemed like the perfect solution – they’re cute, low maintenance, and require no watering. In other words, they’re the only plants I could probably have in my house.

Although I haven’t had the chance to tackle any of these projects yet, I can already tell that they will be quick and enjoyable to work on. And with a US size 4 medium weight yarn and a size G-6, 4 millimeter crochet hook, I have everything I need to get started.

In fact, I’m already planning on making a few of these projects as gifts for the upcoming holiday season. I have a few friends who are crazy plant ladies, and I know they would absolutely adore these crochet succulents, cacti, and flowers.

Overall, the Leisure Arts Make A Crochet Garden eBook is a must-have for any crocheter looking to add some unique and adorable projects to their collection. The patterns are enjoyable and easy to follow, and the end results are sure to be stunning. So, if you are a beginner or a seasoned crocheter, this book is a must-have in your crochet library.

Here is a crochet pattern for a mini plant pot:

Materials:

  • Worsted weight yarn in your desired color
  • Size G/4.0mm crochet hook
  • Tapestry needle
  • Scissors
  • Polyfil stuffing
  • Small plastic pot or container for lining

Abbreviations:

  • ch: chain
  • sc: single crochet
  • dc: double crochet
  • sl st: slip stitch
  • st: stitch

Instructions:

  1. Begin by creating a magic ring.
  2. Work 6 sc into the ring.
  3. Work 2 sc into each st around. (12 sts)
  4. Work 1 sc in the next st, then 2 sc in the next st. Repeat from * to * around. (18 sts)
  5. Work 1 sc in each of the next 2 sts, then 2 sc in the next st. Repeat from * to * around. (24 sts)
  6. Work 1 sc in each of the next 3 sts, then 2 sc in the next st. Repeat from * to * around. (30 sts)
  7. Work 1 sc in each of the next 4 sts, then 2 sc in the next st. Repeat from * to * around. (36 sts)
  8. Work 1 sc in each of the next 5 sts, then 2 sc in the next st. Repeat from * to * around. (42 sts)

 

Have you read?

Crochet Christmas Dove Ornaments With a Printable Gift Poem

There is something especially lovely about a handmade gift that comes with a few thoughtful words. These crochet Christmas birds pair a folded yarn ornament with a decorative poem card, turning a little crochet project into a keepsake.

The design has a rounded head, a tiny embroidered eye and beak, and a forked tail. A broad overlapping section forms the wing, giving the bird that folded, origami-inspired appearance. It is a simple-looking shape with plenty of handmade charm.

A Crochet Bird That Doubles as a Gift Topper

What appeals to me most is the idea of using the bird twice. Tie it onto a wrapped present as a gift topper, then let the recipient hang it on their Christmas tree afterwards. The wrapping gets recycled, the ribbon goes into somebody’s “far too useful to throw away” drawer, and the bird becomes part of next year’s decorations.

Cream would be a lovely choice for a Christmas dove, while cranberry red, sage green and dusty blue offer a different seasonal look. Keeping the wing plain lets the crochet texture and folded layers stand out.

For a personalised crochet gift tag, an embroidered initial is a sweet addition. One small letter gives the ornament a purpose without needing to squeeze an entire name onto the wing.

The Printable Christmas Dove Card

The accompanying printable brings the gift together. Watercolour-style holly, evergreen branches, berries and gold accents frame the card, with space above the poem for attaching the crocheted bird.

The original Christmas poem shares wishes for peace, joy and love, then invites the recipient to hang the dove on their tree. There is also a “With love from” line, so the finished card feels like a complete little present.

I would print it on firm cardstock and attach the bird with a removable thread or ribbon loop. That way, the recipient can lift it off the card easily when it is time to decorate the tree.

It is a thoughtful Christmas gift concept, especially for crafters who enjoy making small decorations with a personal touch. The bird and poem card belong together: a little handmade ornament, a Christmas wish, and something to bring out again next December.