Crochet

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Mandala Wandering – Crochet Patterns

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mandala-crochet-patterns-free.

This journey has been nothing short of magical—a true creative adventure filled with color, texture, and inspiration at every turn. I’d love for you to come along with me and soak up all the crochet eye candy I’ve discovered along the way. From intricate stitches to dreamy color palettes, there’s so much to see, feel, and fall in love with. Let’s wander together through this tapestry of handmade beauty—you might just find your next favorite project waiting for you.

Kara’s Overlay Mandala
http://www.petalstopicots.com/2012/09/overlay-crochet-mandala-cal.html

First, Kara over at www.petalstopicots.com emailed me to show me the stunning Overlay Mandala she has recently completed.  Her work is amazing.  The interplay of color and the detail of the design are exquisite!  Of course, when I saw her finished project, I had to click on all the links to see where all this beauty originated.

Kara posted that she got the design via this blog where you can see a bunch of other versions of these delicious designs (and maybe vote for your fave).  Of course, when I read where Kara got her original pattern for this project, I had to go take a look.  Oh, my!  How have I not been made aware of CaroCreated Designs?  Of maybe I’d heard of them but had forgotten!  WAH!!  Well, at least I found my way there.  These detailed crochet designs are simply amazing.  I can’t wait to get my hands on one of her patterns to make one for myself.  Oh, the dilemma.  Which one will I get first??

http://www.etsy.com/listing/68700900/rosettes-crochet-pattern-applique

 

I find myself leaning toward these pretty rosettes.  But, then there are the paisley looking pieces, the cute owls, and so many others.  Hmm.  I’ll let you know……

Crochet Pattern – Just Hemp Mandala [Crochet]

Crochet Pattern – Mandala Floor Rug [Crochet]

Crochet Pattern – Mandala Placemats for your Summer Home Decor [Crochet]

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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.