Crochet

Patterns, projects and techniques

Painted Crochet Inspiration

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cro painted flower 0314

Have you seen this remarkably easy way to ‘paint’ your crochet?  It’s so easy that you’ll look like a true watercolor artist when you’re done.  I have fallen in love with the look and I can think of numerous ways to use it in my own work.

The first thought that came to mine upon seeing this technique was to try it out on those dollar store doilies to refine my artistry.  I won’t have wasted much if my project doesn’t turn out perfectly the first time.

Another way to take advantage of this method of painting crochet is to hide stains.  That would work nicely on any piece of crochet you own, including a sweater or a bedspread.  Be sure to check for colorfastness if using on a project that is not purely decorative.

You can get all the details on how to create this lovely watercolor effect on your crochet with instructions from Lisa Jelle right here.

cro painted trim 0314

Here’s another way to paint a crochet piece using readily available materials.  This would be perfect when you are trying to match trim to a garment or add a unique edging to any crochet project.  You can also use this technique to create a ‘crochet print’, sort of the negative image of the item being painted.  Also very attractive and a great way to make note cards for crochet lovers.

cro painted bowl 0314

Then I found this bowl on ebay.  There are no specific instructions but it is noted that the crochet painting is accomplished with acrylic paints.  Acrylic paints behave in a totally different manner than the water based paints used on the other pieces shown here.  Blending is more difficult – maybe impossible on crochet thread.  So, the look is far less subtle but attractive nonetheless.  Depends on your taste and how you want to use the piece.

This might be a fun way to make some pretty crochet pieces using Easter egg dyes which will be dirt cheap the day after Easter.  They are water based and easy to apply with an inexpensive brush or a Qtip type swab.  I could see myself having lots of fun with these ideas!  How about you?

Looking for more Easter themed Crochet patterns? Check out some of our favorite places for Crochet patterns. Etsy. has lots of new patterns and the perfect place to find Crochet patterns that are trending or seasonal. We also love  Anniescatalog   for buying individual patterns and a great place to source vintage styled designs and last but not least,  Leisure Arts for more traditional styled patterns and books.

Comments

  3. I am so glad I didn’t throw awy an old doily that has a stain on it. I plan to try one or two of these methods to hide the stain within some color.

    thanks

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.