Crochet

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Crochet Resource You Must Have!

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cro symbol chart

Jamey Ekins has created this great crochet resource that we all need to have on hand.  You can’t really read the chart depicted here, but the one on her site is much clearer.  If you are ever uncertain about UK vs US crochet terminology, this simple, attractive chart will eliminate any difficulty.  It’s so nice to have the crochet symbol and both meanings right next to one another.  I believe you’ll find yourself using this many times.  I suggest you print it off and have it laminated so it doesn’t get tattered with use.  You can download your own copy of it here.

Jamey also has a link to a video that further explains the terminology and the stitches with names used in both UK and USA.  I’ll be putting my laminated copy of this in my large crochet resource binder so it’s safe and handy forever.

The download takes a few minutes to populate, but it’s worth the wait.  The images and type are clear and crisp, well organized, very useful, and free.  Be sure to print it out in color if you have that capability.  This chart has earned its place in my crochet library.  Thanks, Jamey!

Need Crochet supplies and Yarn? We highly recommend Lionbrand for quality yarn and ongoing yarn sales and discounts. Make sure to check out their free crochet patterns too.

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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.