Crochet

Patterns, projects and techniques

Does Anyone Else…..

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Find it frustrating to try to navigate around Pinterest?  There are lots of great pictures – but I often find it difficult to find the original pattern source for something that intrigues me!  There is a section entitled ‘People’ – but the people there are in no order, so it’s very difficult to find he same person twice, especially if I don’t remember the exact name.

I also find it to be a huge time waster!  Initially, I thought Pinterest would be a great source of crochet inspiration.  But, I find that I spend more time there just trying to source a pattern or find a crocheter than actually getting any kind of inspiration!  That’s a problem for me.

I think Pinterest could be a great resource.  But, the way it’s organized (or should I say disorganized), I have to spend too much time wandering sort of aimlessly there rather than being able to go directly to a person or pattern or project.  I have heard some rumblings of these same feelings from some other crocheters.  What about you?

Comments

  2. I love Pinterest as a way to keep track of things that I’ve stumbled across on the internet, but I rarely spend time surfing through other people’s pins. Not only is it annoying to not be able to find the original source, but it drives me crazy when you search for something as generic as “crochet” you tend to end up with the same image 14 times.

  3. Its not necessarily a pinterest problem, it’s a problem with the pinners not sourcing the photos properly. It’s actually easy to do, but for some I guess they can’t figure it out. Google also has a way of searching for image sources that works pretty well. I’ll also try the link above as well.

  5. Once you find someone you like, or a board you like, follow it, and you’ll always be able to find it.

    I know what you mean with trying to find the source, though. That’s why I generally do not simply re-pin an item–I’ll open the link and pin it from the original site just to make sure it isn’t spam or a site that is copying from another site. I prefer the original creators! ^_^

    Also, http://thedailydigi.com/pinterest-101-a-tutorial/

  6. I look at it more as an stumble upon inspiration board type of experience. I’m sometimes disappointed when I can’t find the source, but I find that instead of following explicit instructions, I enjoy it more when I try to figure it out myself or talk with my friends about ways to do it.

    It’s become a really fun way to learn and try new things I haven’t thought of before.

  7. I have the same problem. I use pinterest a LOT, but usually just pinning things myself from the blogs I read, then the pins go directly to where I pinned them from.

  9. So happy. I thought it was only me. Pinterest gets me so confused. When I do find something I want, it turns out to be completely by accident. Do they have a page that explains all this stuff. Obviously not. Had a funny experience with ‘Pinterest’ that wasn’t.Kept asking to join. P.S. What is that about. Kept doing it for months (literally) then got an email from a blogI subscibe to saying that in Russia was a fake Pinterest (that appeared to have pirated the real Pinterest & that the only way to get to the real one was http://www.pinterest.com. Did that & received an invitation to become a member within 12 hours. Weird. Keep an eye out for this.

  10. My deal with the site is that when someone “pins” something and then you go to find it, you have to search and search for the original item pinned whether it be a craft item, recipe, or something else. It is not the easiest place to navigate and sometimes it is very frustrating BUT most of the time I eventually find what I am looking for.

  11. I don’t search it the way you do, which is maybe why I like it better :). I follow people who seem to have pins I like, and then I just periodically look at “Pinners You Folow” or search for crochet boards to find more people to follow!

  12. I never saw the advantages of Pinterest and it was a great time waster to me also. It never really piqued my interest. I was granted an account (that kind of irked me too) and just never logged in after that. I’d rather browse blogs and their blogrolls.

  13. Yes, it’s terrible. My followers get updates of a new pin I make, and it starts at the top, pushing everything else down. My pins of crochet/craft items is so long that it takes 4 min to scroll down to the first one I ever posted. I am now “creating” new boards to btrakit down a bit. “Crochet Blouses, L.S.”, (L.S.= Lang Sleves), S.S., Tank Tops, Doilies, Bags/Purses, Toys, Appliques/Frigies.
    All w/ Crochet in front. Same goes for recipes.

  14. Hum… There were some typos there. That’s Long Sleeves, and Short Sleeves. And “btrakit” was ontended to be “break it”.

  16. I have enough time consuming things now…..crochet, groups, blogs I follow, that I don’t need another so I never bothered with it. From what you’ve said, I’m glad I didn’t.

  17. I love pinterest. For me it’s a great way of using it to keep my bookmarks organised, bookmarks with pictures are easier to locate than bookmarks without. I never have a problem locating the source of the pattern or item that i want to see and if i repin, i always repin from the original page.

  18. I used to go down the bunny trails to get to the original website then my daughter told me how she does it. So simple 😛 Just tap or click on the picture and presto you are at the original post.
    Happy pinning! 🙂

  20. This is all very good for me to hear! I pin all the crochet patterns I write. Now after reading this, I think I need to go back into Pinterest and create more specific boards so it’ll be easier for people to navigate.

    In all honesty, I don’t have time to surf around on Pinterest much. The few times, I’ve had the whole “going down a rabbit trail” experience too.

  21. I get frustrated with pinterest. I don’t have the patience or time to wast trying to find what I am looking for.

  22. I don’t surf around to find stuff on Pinterest, because people (including myself) often don’t tag the pictures with good keywords.
    Instead I follow people’s boards, where they collect crochet stuff or other things I am interested in. It works great for me: When I open Pinterest, I see all the recent pins from many different crochet boards.

  23. I use it for myself as a bookmark with pictures. My frustration is when certain sites won’t let me pin a picture.

  24. Pinterest was taking up way to much of my CRAFTY TIME!! I would spend way to many hours looking and not crafting,so I deleted my account and I am so glad I did!!

  25. I don’t typically browse Pinterest for ideas. I just use it for pinning things I find on my own. So I can keep track of things I find. 🙂

  26. i find it such hard work to find or pin anything, I have 1 pin and then have been blocked everytime from pinning anything else, it’s a great idea, but a bit of a mess.

  27. I agree. I have never been able to get into pintrest because once I find an idea I like I expect to be able to quickly get to the instructions and get inspired! Instead I spend 5 min looking for the original and more often than not give up and decide to figure it out myself. While I don’t have a problem figuring things out myself, that was hardly why I was browsing pintrest.

  28. I am very disappointed in pinterest & I don’t know how to unsubscribe from them. I thought it was a place to keep my pictures of my crochet projects or whatever. Unfortunately, I find that something w/ the little icon can only be “pinned”. Otherwise, I have no time or use for this site. I’m very busy in other words. Anyway, it was later that my daughter pointed out Picasa to me. Like a personal photo album. Thanks! Sheri *c*

Have you read?

Free Knitted Knockers Crochet Pattern: Make Soft Breast Forms to Donate

If you have been searching for a Knitted Knockers crochet pattern, you might be wondering whether you have landed in the wrong craft category. Despite the name, there is an official crochet version, so you can put your hooks to good use without picking up knitting needles.

I love sharing projects that give our crafting a practical purpose. Sometimes a few carefully chosen supplies and an evening of stitching can become something very personal for someone else. This is one of those projects where following the organisation’s instructions matters far more than adding our own creative flourishes.

What Are Knitted Knockers?

Knitted Knockers are soft, lightweight breast forms made by volunteers for people who have undergone breast surgery. The organisation connects makers with recipients and provides its breast forms free of charge.

Both knitted and crocheted versions are available. For makers, the important starting point is choosing the correct pattern and materials for the organisation receiving your donation.

Where to Find the Free Knitted Knockers Crochet Pattern

Visit the official Knitted Knockers pattern and tutorial page and look for “Knitted Knockers Crochet Pattern,” revised June 10, 2023, version 8.

The pattern is credited to Claudia Barbo, with that revision by Michelle Peruskie. It includes sizes A, B, C, D and DD.

Download the written instructions before starting and use the accompanying crochet video for extra help. The organisation advises following the written pattern if the video differs, because instructions are updated periodically.

What Crochet Skills Do You Need?

This project uses a magic ring, single crochet, increases, invisible decreases and working in a continuous spiral.

I would suggest being comfortable counting stitches and following shaping instructions before making your first donation pair. Stitch markers are particularly useful here. “I’ll remember where that round started” has led plenty of us into unnecessary unravelling.

The pattern uses US crochet terminology. Its single crochet stitch is called double crochet in UK terminology, which is worth noting for Australian and British readers.

Follow the pattern’s gauge, shaping and sizing directions rather than substituting instructions from a generic crochet bra cup.

Choosing Yarn for Crocheted Knockers

This is a project where I would check the yarn requirements before opening the stash cupboard.

KnittedKnockers.org maintains a tested, approved yarn list and identifies options suitable for crochet. Crochet can produce a firmer fabric than knitting, so a yarn approved for a knitted version is not automatically the right choice for the crocheted one.

Check the current list through the official pattern page before buying supplies. Donations distributed through KnittedKnockers.org must use its approved yarns and patterns.

A soft-looking ball band or a “baby yarn” label is not enough on its own. Choose the exact yarn and weight specified by your receiving organisation.

Tips Before You Make a Donation Pair

Ask your chosen organisation what sizes and colours it currently needs, whether it accepts crocheted breast forms, and how it wants them finished and delivered.

For the official crochet pattern:

  • Keep pairs consistent in size.
  • Check the finished measurements using the pattern’s sizing guidance.
  • Follow the instructions for the adjustable opening at the back.
  • Confirm whether your receiving group wants stuffed or unstuffed donations.

That adjustable opening is intentional, so resist the temptation to sew everything neatly shut. Follow the finishing directions carefully.

An Australian Crochet Pattern Resource

Australian readers can also explore the free crocheted knockers pattern offered by Be Uplifted in Brisbane.

Its page includes a pattern-request option for making crocheted temporary breast prostheses. Contact the charity directly about its current materials and donation requirements before starting.

Keep each organisation’s instructions together. Mixing one group’s pattern with another group’s materials list can create avoidable confusion.

More Ways to Crochet Something Useful

If your craft group would like several projects to choose from, our crochet chemo cap patterns offer another way to make thoughtful donations. For a wider selection, browse our crochet patterns to make and donate to charity.

Choose a project the receiving group actually needs, check its requirements, and make one carefully before planning a whole basketful.

There is something lovely about using a familiar skill to offer a little practical kindness. Start with the official crochet pattern, take your time with that first pair, and let usefulness guide the stitches.

Original Crochet Breast Form Pattern: A Rounded Personal-Use Design

This simple crochet breast form uses a gently rounded front and a flat back, joined with an opening so the filling can be adjusted.

Unlike the triangular official Knitted Knockers design, this version has a circular outline. It is a starting point for experimenting with shape and fit, rather than a standardised cup-size pattern.

Important: This original pattern has not been physically tested or approved by Knitted Knockers. Do not use it for donations requiring an approved pattern. Anyone considering wearing it following breast surgery should first ask their breast-care nurse or treating team whether the materials, seams and design are suitable.

Materials

  • Approximately 100 g of smooth, soft sport-weight cotton yarn, allowing extra for a tension sample
  • 3.5 mm crochet hook, or size needed for the suggested tension
  • Soft, washable polyester fibre filling
  • Locking stitch marker
  • Blunt yarn needle
  • Scissors
  • Measuring tape

These materials are suggestions for this original design. They are not a substitute for a charity’s approved materials list.

Suggested Tension and Finished Size

Aim for approximately 24 single crochet stitches and 26 rows per 10 cm, measured on a flat single crochet sample.

Your stitches should form a flexible fabric without large gaps. If the fabric feels stiff, reconsider the yarn and hook combination before making the full piece.

At this tension, the finished form is expected to measure approximately 10–12 cm across, depending on filling and individual tension. This is an estimate, not a tested measurement or a bra cup-size designation.

Abbreviations

This pattern uses US crochet terminology.

  • ch: chain
  • sc: single crochet
  • inc: work 2 single crochet stitches into the same stitch
  • sl st: slip stitch
  • st/sts: stitch/stitches

In UK terminology, the US single crochet stitch is called double crochet.

Pattern Notes

  • Make one front and one back.
  • Work in continuous rounds without joining unless instructed.
  • Mark the first stitch of each round and move the marker as you work.
  • Instructions inside brackets are repeated the stated number of times.
  • The front and back both finish with 84 stitches.
  • A small opening is left along the joining edge for adjusting the filling.

Make the Rounded Front

Round 1: Work 6 sc into a magic ring. Pull the ring closed. 6 sts

Round 2: Inc in every stitch around. 12 sts

Round 3: [Sc in next st, inc in next st] 6 times. 18 sts

Round 4: [Sc in next 2 sts, inc in next st] 6 times. 24 sts

Round 5: [Sc in next 3 sts, inc in next st] 6 times. 30 sts

Round 6: [Sc in next 4 sts, inc in next st] 6 times. 36 sts

Round 7: [Sc in next 5 sts, inc in next st] 6 times. 42 sts

Round 8: [Sc in next 6 sts, inc in next st] 6 times. 48 sts

Round 9: [Sc in next 7 sts, inc in next st] 6 times. 54 sts

Round 10: [Sc in next 8 sts, inc in next st] 6 times. 60 sts

Round 11: [Sc in next 9 sts, inc in next st] 6 times. 66 sts

Round 12: [Sc in next 10 sts, inc in next st] 6 times. 72 sts

Round 13: [Sc in next 11 sts, inc in next st] 6 times. 78 sts

Round 14: [Sc in next 12 sts, inc in next st] 6 times. 84 sts

Before continuing, check the fabric. It should be broadly flat, although the repeated increase positions may give it a slightly hexagonal outline. Pronounced ruffling or cupping at this stage suggests that your tension needs adjusting.

Rounds 15–17: Sc in every stitch around. 84 sts in each round

These three rounds add depth to the front.

Sl st into the next stitch to soften the finishing step. Fasten off and weave in the end. The slip stitch does not count as an additional stitch.

Secure the starting tail carefully on the wrong side.

Make the Flat Back

Work Rounds 1–14 of the front instructions.

You will finish with 84 stitches.

Do not work the three additional rounds used for the front.

Sl st into the next stitch. Fasten off, leaving approximately 100 cm of yarn for joining. Secure the starting tail.

Join the Front and Back

Place the pieces together with their wrong sides facing inward. The extra rounds on the front should create space for the filling.

Align the edges so that each front stitch matches one back stitch. Locking markers placed at intervals can help prevent the pieces from shifting.

Using the long tail and a blunt yarn needle, whipstitch through the outermost loop of each corresponding stitch pair.

Join 72 stitch pairs, leaving 12 stitch pairs unjoined for the filling opening.

Keep the seam relaxed. Pulling it tight will gather the edge and distort the shape.

Secure the joining yarn firmly at the end of the seam and weave it into the inside of the work. Leave the opening accessible.

Add the Filling

Add small amounts of fibre filling through the opening.

Spread it evenly beneath the front panel, gently shaping the piece with your hands. Aim for a softly rounded front and a comparatively flat back.

Avoid packing it into a firm ball. More filling is not automatically a better fit.

The front should remain compressible, and the filling should stay inside without pushing through gaps in the crochet fabric.

Make an Adjustable Closure

Cut a separate length of yarn approximately 40 cm long.

Starting at one end of the opening, lace the yarn loosely between the corresponding front and back stitches across all 12 unjoined stitch pairs, as though lacing a shoe.

Leave a tail at each end.

Gently draw the edges together without gathering them tightly. Tie a loose bow and tuck the bow and tails inside the opening.

This allows the lacing to be loosened when filling needs to be added or removed. Check that the opening stays closed during handling and that the fastening does not create an uncomfortable lump.

Check Your Sample

Before considering this prototype for personal wear, check:

  • The fabric feels soft and flexible.
  • The starting ring and all woven ends are secure.
  • The seam is smooth and does not form a hard ridge.
  • No filling escapes through the stitches or opening.
  • The closure can be reopened without damaging the crochet.
  • The shape and size suit the intended purpose.

For use following surgery, have the design and fit checked by the wearer’s breast-care professional. Do not place this untested design against an incision or healing skin.

Making Breast Forms for Charity?

Please use the receiving organisation’s approved pattern and materials instead of this experimental design.

The official Knitted Knockers crochet pattern and tutorials are the appropriate starting point for donations to KnittedKnockers.org. Following the organisation’s requirements helps volunteers sort and distribute donations that meet recipients’ needs.