Crochet

Patterns, projects and techniques

Free Crochet Pattern – Battenberg Blanket

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The blanket that’s charming the crochet world — one sweet little square at a time.

You know that feeling when a project just makes your heart smile? That’s exactly what the Battenberg Blanket by Sandra Paul does. It’s soft, nostalgic, and the kind of make that feels like coming home. No surprise it’s trending (again!) — it’s the perfect blend of vintage charm and slow, soul-soothing crochet.

Why We Love It

Inspired by the classic Battenberg cake (you know the one — pink, yellow, and wrapped in marzipan deliciousness), this blanket is made up of tiny solid and gingham-style granny squares, alternated in a sweet checkerboard layout. The end result? A pastel dream that’s as pretty folded over a chair as it is spread out for a picnic.

But it’s not just about the looks — this project is practical too. It’s a join-as-you-go design, which means you don’t end up buried under a mountain of squares needing sewing (hallelujah). Each square is like a little treat, and it’s one of those projects you can work on bit by bit — perfect for busy days, travel projects, or fitting in between bigger makes.

Yarn & Colour Joy

Sandra uses pastel-toned mini skeins for that sweet, ice-cream-parlour look, but honestly? The sky’s the limit. It’s an excellent stash-buster — especially for leftover sock yarn or DK scraps. The white (or neutral) connecting squares help tie it all together, no matter how wild your colour choices get.

And if you’re a hand-dyed yarn hoarder like me (guilty!), this is a gorgeous way to show off those little treasures you’ve been “saving.”

Skill Level & Pattern Layout

This one’s beginner-friendly, but satisfying enough for experienced crocheters who want something meditative. The pattern is free on Sandra’s blog, with lots of helpful tips and photos. She also offers video support and has a massive community of makers on Instagram using the hashtag #battenbergblanket — which is so fun to scroll for colour inspo!

Pro tip: block your squares as you go. It makes assembly a breeze and gives that lovely neat finish Sandra’s version is famous for.

 

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.