Crochet

Patterns, projects and techniques

Crochet An Amazing Lace Wrap Shawl

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When I first saw this shawl, I was immediately intrigued with the unusual shape of it.  You can see that better in the second photo.  I wasn’t quite sure how it would remain situation on my shoulders, but, as you can see from the second photo, the seemingly abstract shape is actually well balanced.  I love the ripple effect edge that doesn’t require any special stitch work.  I think it’s an amazing design.

 

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Looking for more Crochet patterns using the Ripple stitch check these out on Etsy?

As I browsed further through designer Sara’s site, Posh Pooch Designs, I found one interesting project after another.  Free patterns, unique ideas, lots of goodies for pet lovers.  This gal must spend all her waking hours designing and creating things for her animals and her humans!  And, look how creative she is!  I’m impressed.

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I also liked the looks of the Linked Up Cowl.  Of course, one could use any color combination desired, but I love the choices she has made.  This would make a great gift for a fashionista or anyone living in a colder climate.  Choose a really soft, plush yarn and you’ll have a cowl worthy of a queen (or me if you want to send it my way 😉

I’ve not included any of her pooch designs here because there are just too many of them.  You can check them out for yourself.  I’m sure you’ll be equally impressed with the variety of projects offered.  And, not just for pooches.  There are wash cloths, purses, and even a fanny pack.  Not sure I’ve ever seen a pattern for a crocheted fanny pack.  There’s plenty here to keep you browsing for quite a while.  Check it out!

You can find the Lace Pumpkin Wrap (shawl) pattern here and the Linked Up Cowl Design here.

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.