Crochet

Patterns, projects and techniques

COMING TO PEACE WITH PIECES (AND TAILS)

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Do you hate weaving in all those tails that are left dangling when you make squares, strips, and panels? I used to too. But, no more. At some point, I came to peace with the pieces and the tails they produce. I used to hate having to weave in all those dratted tails. Now, I enjoy hiding them within stitches and rows of my crochet.

What changed? I think I began to see the weaving in process as the ‘nearing completion’ stage of my work. I could really see the project take shape as I stopped long enough to weave in loose ends as I changed colors or joined squares. A certain serenity comes over me as I thread the large needle and begin to turn the work this way and that to see the best route for the needle and tail.

So, maybe we all just need an attitude adjustment when it comes to those loose ends. Maybe we can begin to view the loose ends as milestones in the creative process rather than stumbling blocks to completion of projects. I’ve actually heard of people who finished many projects to the point of weaving in the ends – then just abandoned the projects because of the hated weaving in process.

It’s a shame to be so near to the finish line – but refuse to cross it. So, we DO need that attitude adjustment. We need to view those dangling bits of yarn and thread as evidence of our accomplishment rather than as a hindrance.

Addendum:

This particular project is only about 1/4 done. It’s going to be a lapghan for ME! Pink is my favorite color. When I saw this yarn at my LYS, although there were only 8 skeins of this chunky stuff, I just had to have it!! About the hook….it’s a size L and it’s a wonderful hook I bought from a hook maker on the internet. Sadly, I cannot recommend the hook maker despite the fact that this is a great hook and I bought a set of them – and they’re custom made to my specifications. So, please don’t ask.

Comments

  2. Weaving in ends has never been a chore for me, crochet so many rows then weave ends in.
    When afghan is done only have a few ends to weave. No problem, it is attitude as you mention.

  4. I also used to hate those tails! I did not like weaving in ends at all, and didn’t like to make things that were in blocks or pieces
    that had to be put together.Now after a lot of years of crocheting I really appreciate the way my projects turn out when I take the extra time to weave in all those little ends.
    I recently made a baby afghan for my newest grandson, who was born in June. It was one of those you have to crochet a hundred and something blocks(they were diamonds instead though), and then you have to sew them all together.I thought it was going to take forever to finish, and got callouses on mt thumb and finger from sewing!It turned out really nice and I was very proud when I got it done! Perhaps also it is something that comes with age.
    Sorry for rambling!Love your Blog
    God Bless
    Ruby

  5. At peace with the pieces. That’s good.

    Wow, that pink afghan seems like it’s very pretty. Can you share the link to the pattern? TIA Lynn

Have you read?

The Miffy Crochet Book Review: 16 Sweet Projects for Bunny Lovers

Some characters need elaborate outfits and a whole collection of accessories to be recognisable. Miffy manages it with two long ears and the simplest little face. There is something rather lovely about that, especially when you’re looking for crochet projects that feel sweet without being overly fussy.

The Miffy Crochet Book brings that familiar storybook charm to a collection of handmade toys, decorations and home accessories. If you have a Miffy fan in the family, or you’re rather fond of the little bunny yourself, this is a crochet book worth a closer look.

What appeals to me is the possibility of making several coordinating gifts from one collection. A bunny is lovely on its own, but a bunny with a matching blanket? That is how a small project quietly becomes an entire gift basket.

What Is The Miffy Crochet Book?

Created by crochet designer Kimberley Zwaans, with designs based on Dick Bruna’s illustrations, this official Miffy crochet book is published by Search Press.

The 128-page paperback contains 16 projects, with a mixture of smaller makes and larger pieces. You can find The Miffy Crochet Book at Knit Picks.

This article contains affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

More Than a Miffy Bunny Crochet Pattern

The collection includes Miffy and friends as amigurumi toys, alongside projects such as a blanket, motif cushion and moon-and-stars mobile.

There is also a birthday theme, with a crochet cake, placemats, bunting and a crown. That gives the book an appeal beyond toy making, particularly if you enjoy creating decorations that can come out again for family celebrations.

I like that mixture. Sometimes you want a small character project with a face to embroider. Other times, a larger piece of crochet is exactly what you want beside your chair for the evening.

The collection uses seven yarn shades, which gives it a cohesive feel. You will still need to check the quantities and requirements for each project before shopping. Seven colours does not necessarily mean seven balls, much as our yarn budgets might wish otherwise.

Is It Suitable for Beginners?

The publisher describes the book as beginner-friendly and says it includes illustrated guidance for the key stitches. There are also projects offering more challenge.

My practical advice is to choose your first make by the techniques involved, rather than simply picking the smallest item. Small amigurumi pieces can require quite a bit of counting, shaping and careful assembly.

If working in the round is still new territory, our magic ring crochet tutorials for beginners are useful preparation. You can also build confidence with these easy crochet projects that start with a magic loop.

Before starting, check the book’s stitch terminology, recommended yarn and hook size. Those details matter more than choosing a colour that happens to look lovely in the basket.

The Appeal, and What to Consider

For me, the strongest selling point is the coordinated theme. This would be particularly appealing for crocheters who love Miffy, enjoy character projects or want several related handmade gift ideas.

The narrower theme is also something to consider before buying. If you prefer a crochet book packed with different animals and styles, this collection may feel too specific. Its appeal depends on how much you enjoy Miffy’s simple, recognisable world.

Simple faces also deserve careful finishing. A tiny change in eye placement or the angle of an ear can alter a character’s expression, so I would allow time for pinning and checking before sewing everything permanently.

If you would like a separate bunny project to try first, our free kawaii bunny crochet pattern on CraftBits offers another option. It is a different pattern, rather than an extract from this book.

Who Would Enjoy This Book?

I would put The Miffy Crochet Book on the shortlist for a crocheter who enjoys nostalgic characters and likes the idea of making a coordinated collection.

The combination of toys, home accessories and celebration projects gives those 16 designs several different uses. You could choose one special make or gradually work towards a whole Miffy-themed gift.

That is the charm for me: familiar, cheerful designs with room to make something personal. Just decide which project you’re starting before buying the yarn. Otherwise, “one little bunny” has a habit of acquiring a blanket, bunting and its own birthday party.