Crochet

Patterns, projects and techniques

Crochet Calculators

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Mikey over at Crochet Crowd has devised a couple of new tools that look to be quite useful.  Of course, as with all things crochet, no matter how exact your input might be, your output may vary.  But, his Afghan Calculator, for instance, can really help in determining if you have enough yarn on hand to work a specific pattern to a specific size.  He has a couple other tools there too.  Be sure to check out the Yarn Substitution Calculator.

I like Mikey’s approach to crochet.  He is a patient teacher via his videos and is inclusive in his scope.  He is SURE that everyone can crochet wonderful things using fairly simple techniques.  Right, no?  From the simplest stitches to much more involved stitches and techniques, Mikey will walk you through it.

If you’re not great with color (like me), you’ll value Mikey’s partner, Dan’s, page on trendy color combinations (one of which is pictured above).  For someone like me, this is a great tool both for inspiration and for verification that I’m not putting together a palette that is displeasing to everyone but me!  My only complaint here is that the color combinations don’t look trendy to me.  They look timeless.  But, what do I know??

He also has great giveaways, reviews new products (like I do), and offers a great free site that will delight most crocheters.  Check him out for free patterns and to take a look at the pictures of the many projects completed by his ‘followers’ for his challenges.  Lots of fun!

Comments

  1. Thank you so much for the write up. I accidentally stumbled across this. I have just left the kitchen challenging Diva Dan to come up with more innovative colour ideas.

Have you read?

Crochet Baby Beanie – A Sweet Beginner-Friendly Hat Pattern for Baby Showers and Handmade Gifts

This Crochet Baby Beanie is one of those simple little patterns that makes a really lovely handmade gift. It uses soft Bernat Softee Baby yarn for the hat, a fluffy Pipsqueak edging, and an optional crochet flower on the side, giving it that cute baby-shower-ready finish.

What makes this one appealing is that the shape is worked in easy rounds, starting with a magic circle and increasing up to 48 stitches before moving into the textured post-stitch section. The fluffy edging softens the whole look, and the added flower gives it a sweet decorative touch without making the project feel too fussy.

I also like that it feels like a pattern you could easily customize. You could skip the flower for a simpler baby beanie, change the colors for a more modern look, or keep the pink-and-white version for a classic handmade baby gift. It has that practical “quick weekend project” feel, which is always handy when a baby shower sneaks up on you.

If you’re looking for an easy crochet baby hat pattern with a soft, cozy finish, this one is definitely worth a look. It’s cute, giftable, and the fluffy trim gives it a little extra charm.