The Inspiration + Design

I started hand dyeing yarn back in 2017 and I fell in love quickly. I started a business selling our hand dyed yarn and called it Sewrella Yarn! We open our store once a month for themed collections on the 15th of every month and it always sells out fast! (Follow us on instagram here to stay caught up). We have so much fun creating themed colorways around different collection ideas like Hocus Pocus at Halloween, Gilmore Girls (the TV show), and Disneyland to name a few.

View this post on Instagram

 

Color family planning for our February collection! What do you think the theme is based on this color mood? ???? If anyone gets it right I’ll give ya a shop credit!!

A post shared by Ashleigh • CJ • Parker (@handmadehomefibers) on Jan 31, 2020 at 7:21am PST

The two hand dyed colorways I featured here were sitting on my shelf after a batch of test dyeing. The recipes haven’t yet been released publicly in any way but I thought they were beautiful for this project. One was originally inspired by a golden peach and the other was a rosy clay style colorway.

Books & Blankets – a monthly series!

Crochet is obviously a big passion of mine (it’s why I have a whole blog about it, ha!) but another big passion of mine is children’s books. After a big pattern sale last fall, we actually took half of our proceeds and used it to buy children’s books for our local hospital. That sparked an idea – a collection of crochet patterns inspired by some favorite children’s books.

I’m so excited to bring these two passions of mine together in this series this year, the second of which is this crochet color block blanket! Check out the first one of the series here!

Creating a blanket from a children’s story

These two just so happen to perfectly coordinate with our featured book, Bagel in Love! I picked up this book recently as a little Valentine’s Day book for Parker’s collection and was actually kind of shocked by how much I loved it! It’s about a sweet bagel who want’s to enter a dance contest but can’t find a partner. By the end he falls in love with a cupcake and wins the Cherry Jubilee dance contest. The illustrations are vibrant and the story is full of happiness.

Creating a color palette to match children’s book art is so fun – when you find the perfect yarn for the blanket it feels like such a fun victory. Making this blanket in the baby size and gifting it for a baby shower with the matching children’s book is a perfect thoughtful gift that’s easy to customize to the baby’s nursery theme or other details.

High end + Affordable

I loved curating a color palette blending high end hand dyed yarn with more affordable yarn from Lion Brand. The end result is a wool blend, super soft blanket that didn’t cost a fortune to make. One could certainly make an entire blanket of this style in high end yarn and it would be gorgeous. However, this yarn is expensive when you’re making a large project like a blanket – those skeins add up.

When you make your blanket, use the tips below on looking at yardage to determine what yarns will blend well together in this way. Get creative and use up some of your stash and if you’re able, think about supporting an artisanal hand dyer (even if you only purchase one or two skeins for an accent in your blanket).

One blanket, so many sizes

Although I am in love with this crochet color block blanket in a baby size gifted to a new mom along with the Bagel in Love story that matches it so well, I have written this pattern to work for blankets of just about any size!

Within the pattern below you’ll find a table of blanket sizes that are included in the pattern as well as their measurements and the yardage required to make them (provided you’re using the yarn I used or a similar worsted weight yarn).

Another fun aspect of this blanket is that you can sort of create your own color block blanket! Using yarn of any weight, you can just follow the pattern making the foundation chain as wide as you’d like your blanket to be and continuing with row repeats until it’s long enough.

You could even make it in a solid color, different sizes of color block stripes, more or fewer stripes, a two-tone stripe effect, anything goes. The crochet color block blanket is totally customizable and my favorite kind of project!

Easy level & totally beginner friendly

This blanket is one of the easiest I’ve ever made. If you know how to half double crochet, you can complete this blanket. With the video tutorial embedded in the pattern, you’ll see the basic techniques I use to create this stunningly simple color block blanket.

Once you get past the first two rows you’ll be able to complete the blanket without counting or thinking much about it at all – just tune in to your favorite show or podcast and zoom along through the project!

Yarn + Substitution

I used a blend of Lion Brand’s Wool Ease in grey heather, fisherman, and navy and some of my own hand dyed yarn from Sewrella Yarn in a few colorways I created back in 2019. All are worsted weight and of comparable gauge. I just chose colors that worked well together to match my theme of Bagel in Love.

A note on substituting yarns and blending yarns for this project: there is a lot of variation in the yarn industry within the world of worsted weight category 4 weight yarn. The best way I know to compare yarns of different origins, fiber contents, and brand are to look at the yardage per gram. On the yarn label for any yarn (from a big box store or from an independent dyer) the yardage for the ball or skein is listed.

The Wool Ease yarn I used from Lion Brand is an 85 gram ball with 197 yards. 197/85=2.318 yards per gram.
The Handmade Home Fibers hand dyed yarn is a 100 gram skein with 218 yards. 218/100=2.18 yards per gram.
2.318-2.18=0.138 yards per gram difference

I try to make sure any yarns I’m blending within one project like this are absolutely no more than 0.5 yards per gram difference from each other. The lower this number is, the closer these comparative yarns will be in gauge, resulting in a seamless finished project!

PATTERN

• Get the ad-free, large print, printable PDF pattern HERE.
• Grab the Ultimate Pattern Bundle that includes 150+ patterns just like this one on sale for $20 today HERE.
• PIN this pattern to your Pinterest boards for later HERE.

Description

An heirloom blanket inspired by a favorite children’s book – the crochet color block blanket is simple and stunning. An easy level pattern using value and luxury yarns results in a colorful and versatile blanket that’s warm and comforting in all 12 finished sizes.

Yarn

–Lion Brand – Wool Ease
(weight 4 / medium, 3oz/85g, 197yds/180m)
Colorways: GREY HEATHER, FISHERMAN, NAVY
See yardage via table below

–Handmade Home Fibers – Classic Worsted
(weight 4 / medium, 3.5oz/100g, 218yds/200m)
Colorways: ROSY CLAY, GOLDEN PEACH
See yardage via table below

Notions

–Size J 6mm Crochet Hook

–Darning needle

Gauge

14 sts x 9 rows = 4” in pattern (blo hdc)

Finished Size

Notes

–See chart above to choose the size blanket you’d like to make!

-See chart within pattern below to determine your number of foundation chains (A), row stitch count (B), number of total row repeats (C), and number of row repeats per color block (D).

-Ch 2 at beginning of each row does not count as a stitch.

-Substitute other yarns of any weight by using it’s recommended hook size and following the same stitch pattern with a foundation chain that’s the width of your desired blanket size and working row repeats per color block until you’ve reached the length you desire. Alterations may affect yardage.

-Use worsted weight yarns following the yardage chart below. See “Yarn & Substitution” section above for additional guidance.

HAND DYED CROCHET COLOR BLOCK BLANKET

Ch A (or any number +2), sk 2 sts.

Row 1: Hdc across, turn <B>

Row 2: Ch 2, blo hdc across, turn <B>

Repeat row 2 until you’ve finished C rows, changing color every D rows.

Finish off & weave ends.

Abbreviations (US terms):

blo – back loop only
ch – chain
hdc – half double crochet
rep – repeat
st(s) – stitch(es)
<> – stitch count

OTHER FREE CROCHET BLANKET PATTERNS

1. Crochet Cake Stripe Blanket / 2. Crochet Mini Basketweave Blanket / 3. Crochet Homemaker Throw

The post Hand Dyed Crochet Color Block Blanket appeared first on Sewrella.

Books & Blankets – a new monthly series!

Crochet is obviously a big passion of mine (it’s why I have a whole blog about it, ha!) but another big passion of mine is children’s books. After a big pattern sale last fall, we actually took half of our proceeds and used it to buy children’s books for our local hospital. That sparked an idea – a collection of crochet patterns inspired by children’s books.

I’m so excited to bring these two passions of mine together in this series this year, the first of which is this crochet seedling blanket!

The Inspiration + Design

Way back in the first year of designing, I made a huge chunky blanket called the mini basketweave blanket using a new-to-me stitch. I’ve been wanting to revise it with a much lighter weight yarn for a more delicate, heirloom style crochet baby blanket project.

Once I started working up the stitch I realized it looks a lot like the knitted seed stitch. I’ve been calling this blanket the seedling blanket ever since!

On a trip to our local library, I noticed a bunch of books on the table of featured titles that were made for newborns. Thinking back to when my own son was a newborn, I never knew what to read to him. I usually read my old favorites but I would have loved to have these books when he was that little – and what a lovely baby shower gift!

One of these titles was called “I Have a Little Seedling” and the illustrations and message of the story matched my budding crochet seedling blanket so well – it felt meant to be!

One blanket, so many sizes

Although I am in love with this crochet seedling blanket in a baby size gifted to a new mom along with the seedling story that matches it so well, I have written this pattern to work for blankets of just about any size!

Within the pattern below you’ll find a table of blanket sizes that are included in the pattern as well as their measurements and the yardage required to make them (provided you’re using the yarn I used or a similar worsted weight yarn).

Another fun aspect of this blanket is that you can sort of create your own seedling blanket! Using yarn of any weight, you can just follow the pattern making the foundation chain as wide as you’d like your blanket to be and continuing with row repeats until it’s long enough.

The crochet seedling blanket is totally customizable and my favorite kind of project!

Easy level & advanced beginner friendly

This blanket isn’t as easy as crochet possibly gets, but it’s pretty close. If you know how to double crochet, you can complete this blanket. With the video tutorial embedded in the pattern, you’ll see the basic techniques I use to create this stunningly simple stitch.

Once you get past the first two rows you’ll be able to complete the blanket without counting or thinking much about it at all – just tune in to your favorite show or podcast and zoom along through the project!

The Yarn

I chose to use Lion Brand’s new Touch of Cashmere yarn in this gorgeous Portobello color for my crochet seedling blanket. Once I felt this yarn I knew it was perfect for a handmade heirloom quality blanket to be loved for years to come – it’s got the soft luster of cashmere without the crazy high price-point. Blended with acrylic, this yarn is much more affordable than other cashmere yarns and comes in some gorgeous colors.

I love the greyish taupe hue of the portobello color but some other favorites are brandy, winter white, willow, and cameo (I actually have another project planned using that cameo pink color soon!).

This pattern is now available as a kit from Lion Brand – see that here!

Substituting another even more affordable yarn for this blanket, especially if you’re making one of the larger sizes, is an option too – yarns of similar weight I would suggest are:

• Lion Brand’s Basic Stitch
• Lion Brand’s Feels Like Butta
• Lion Brand’s Jeans
• Lion Brand’s Pound of Love
• Lion Brand’s Touch of Alpaca

PATTERN

• Get the ad-free, large print, printable PDF pattern HERE.
• Grab the Ultimate Pattern Bundle that includes 150+ patterns just like this one on sale for $20 today HERE.
• PIN this pattern to your Pinterest boards for later HERE.
• Save this pattern to your Ravelry queue HERE.

Description

An heirloom blanket inspired by a favorite children’s book – the crochet seedling blanket is simple and stunning. An easy level pattern results in a textured and versatile blanket that’s warm and comforting in all 12 finish sizes.

Yarn

–Lion Brand Touch of Cashmere
(weight 4 / medium, 3.5oz/100g, 219yds/200m)
Colorway: PORTOBELLO
See yardage via table below

This pattern is available as a kit from Lion Brand here!

Notions

–Size J 6mm Crochet Hook

–Darning needle

Gauge

14 sts x 12 rows = 4” in pattern (seedling stitch)

Notes

–See chart below to choose the size blanket you’d like to make! Additionally, use this chart to determine your number of foundation chains (A), row stitch count (B), and number of row repeats (C).

-Ch 1 at beginning of each row does not count as a stitch.

-Substitute other yarns of any weight by using it’s recommended hook size and following the same stitch pattern with a foundation chain that’s the width of your desired blanket size and working row repeats until you’ve reached the length you desire.

-Use a worsted weight yarn following the size options chart below.

CROCHET SEEDLING BLANKET

Ch A (or any multiple of 2 +2), sk 2 sts.

Row 1 : Dc in each st across, turn <B>

Row 2  (ws): Ch 1, sc in first stitch, *fpdc, bpdc; rep from * across until one stitch remains, sc, turn  <B>

Row 3 (rs): Ch 1, sc in first stitch, *bpdc, fpdc; rep from * across until one stitch remains, sc, turn <B>

Repeat rows 2-3 until you’ve finished C rows.

Finish off & weave ends.

Abbreviations (US terms):

bpdc – back post double crochet
ch – chain
dc – double crochet
fpdc – front post double crochet
rep – repeat
rs – right side
st(s) – stitch(es)
ws – wrong side
<> – stitch count

OTHER FREE CROCHET BLANKET PATTERNS

1. Crochet Cake Stripe Blanket / 2. Crochet Mini Basketweave Blanket / 3. Crochet Homemaker Throw

The post Crochet Seedling Blanket appeared first on Sewrella.

What is wet blocking?

There are many types of blocking for finished crochet and knitting projects. One of my favorite methods is called wet blocking.

This is a process of soaking the finished project in a soapy water, removing excess water, pinning it in the perfect shape, and letting it dry. That’s it! There are many tricks of the trade and tips I have for you below in the instructions on materials but at the heart of it, wet blocking is really just that – getting the project wet and then blocking it and letting it dry.

Why do we use wet blocking, anyway?

Wet blocking is a wonderful tool to use if you want your project to maintain a certain, perfect shape. In the video and photos pictured here, I am wet blocking a triangle shawl (pattern coming to the blog soon!) and no matter how even my tension or how deliberately I work my increases to create a perfect triangle – the shape is not perfect straight off the hook.

Blocking helps to achieve perfectly crisp lines along the edges of my shawl and they’ll stay that way wear after wear due to the memory of the fiber.

Another reason we love to wet block projects is that the process allows the fiber to relax. When yarn is manufactured (even high end yarn, but this problem is most prevalent in value yarns) the yarn isn’t allowed to fully bloom when it’s produced. The strand of yarn is wound very tightly and compressed in a ball or skein allowing it very little springiness.

By wet blocking the project, it allows the yarn to open up, to bloom and relax in it’s new home in your project.

When to use the wet blocking method

This particular blocking method is best for yarns made with animal fibers or animal fiber blends. This includes:

• wool
• alpaca
• camel
• yak
• angora
• cashmere
• mohair
• other animal fibers

If most of my project contains animal fiber yarns, I prefer wet blocking that project. The shawl pictured uses equal parts 100% merino wool yarn (my own hand dyed yarn from Handmade Home Fibers) and a cashmere blend yarn (Lion Brand’s Touch of Cashmere). There is some acrylic in this project but it’s mostly animal fiber.

I’ll be posting another video tutorial and blog post on steam blocking next week – that’s my favorite blocking style for synthetic yarns (like acrylic, polyester, nylon and others) and plant based yarns (cotton, bamboo, silk) so watch out for that! If you’re not already on my email list sign up for updates at the bottom of this blog post.

Do I need to wet block every project?

Absolutely not! In my opinion (and this is all opinion based here) some projects don’t need to be blocked at all. If you like the shape, drape, and feel of your project when it’s fresh off the hook then you can move right on with your crafty self! Additionally, some projects do much better with steam blocking as referenced above in the “when to use the wet blocking method” section.

Wet blocking also requires a bit of time. You have to soak your project for no less than 30 minutes, pin it out to dry and then let it sit there overnight. Sometimes we don’t have that kind of time or space to let it sit that long. That’s when steam blocking or no blocking at all come to the rescue.

Another factor to consider when deciding whether or not to block a project is – what did you make? If you want a project to maintain it’s rigidity, it may be a good idea to skip blocking.

Here is a short list of projects I always, sometimes, and never block:

Always: shawls and wraps, scarves, sweaters, cardigans, ponchos, granny squares,
Sometimes: blankets and baby blankets, hats, pillows, kitchen items
Never: amigurumi, tabletop decor (pumpkins, etc), wreaths, baskets, bags

Once I decide where my project fits into these categories, helping me to decide if it needs to be blocked at all, I think about the time I have to let the project block as well as the fiber content of the yarn I used.

Hopefully that information helps you figure out if wet blocking your project is right for you! If it’s not, don’t worry. Just pin this post to your pinterest boards so you don’t forget about it when you do have that special project ready for blocking!

WET BLOCKING CROCHET PROJECTS TUTORIAL

MATERIALS

Eucalan Wool Wash (click here for the mini size which will last a long time for cheaper!)

Knit Blockers

T Pins (or rustproof sewing pins)

Blocking Mats

Tub large enough to hold your project (I have lots of these dishpans around the house and they’re great for EVERYTHING!)

Room temperature water

Measuring tape

Large dry towel

NOTES

You may substitute dish soap for the wool wash however you’ll need to rinse the dish soap out of the project before squeezing out excess water. Additional handling while the project is wet may cause undesirable stretching. I don’t recommend using any soap other than wool wash but it will work in a pinch. Proceed at your own soapy risk!!!

Video Tutorial:

Written instructions:

1. Finish your crochet project and weave all ends
2. Fill tub about halfway with a drop of wool wash and room temperature water
3. Submerge your project and soak for 30 minutes
4. VERY carefully remove your project from it’s bath taking care to handle the weight of the wet project without letting it stretch out (crochet does not bounce back when stretched as knitting does!)
5. Lay out the dry towel and place your wet project on it in a hot dog style fashion
6. Gently roll up your project, squeezing excess water as you go (see video above)
7. Unroll, flip your towel over to the drier side and repeat
8. Discard wet towel and set up blocking mats in the general shape of your project (one set of mats may not be enough for your entire project if it’s large – order additional sets or substitute with another dry towel as I do in the video)
9. Lay out your project, again taking care not to stretch it. Line up any straight edges with the lines on the mats to get perfect shaping. Smooth out the project to lie perfectly flat on the boards.
10. If working with a shawl or sweater or otherwise symmetrical project, pin one side in place using knit blockers. Pin other side in place and measure each side separately to make sure they’re identical. Adjust as needed.
11. Pin the remainder of your project with knit blockers and T pins in the shape you’d like it to remain.
12. Let dry overnight or until project is totally dry to the touch.
13. Unpin and use your project!

There are many steps to blocking but after you’ve done it once, you’ll understand why this extra process at the end of a project makes the finished item even better than it was before!

I hope you enjoyed learning about wet blocking crochet projects – stay tuned for my tutorial on steam blocking!

Projects that are great for wet blocking:

1. Simple Knit Sweater / 2. Crochet Wishing Well Wrap / 3. Crochet Duo Poncho

The post Wet Blocking Crochet Projects appeared first on Sewrella.

Scroll down for the free written instructions and video tutorial or read more below about how to crochet flat circles.

You got skills!

Skills, they’re the building blocks of knowledge. Right? Learning how to crochet a flat circle is one tool that every crocheter should have in their toolbox.

Crocheting a flat circle can come in handy when crocheting just about anything – often you’ll need to know how to crochet a flat circle to begin a crochet hat, to crochet amigurumi toys, to make baskets and other items. This technique is a very useful one to know as a beginner crocheter or for perfecting your skills to work on designing your own pieces.

Increasing the number of techniques you can utilize when crocheting makes following creative patterns more fun! Sometimes when reading a pattern or watching a video tutorial, the teacher may rush through how to crochet a flat circle as part of the project. So it’s really helpful to be able to understand how that shape is made and do it on your own!

Learning how to crochet a flat circle is just one of many techniques every crocheter should know, others include how to keep straight edges in crochet and how to change color in crochet.

What to make with flat circles

Once you’ve mastered how to crochet a flat circle you can put those skills to good use to make all sorts of projects.

I’ve rounded up some of my own favorite patterns using flat circles in the construction for you to peruse. Some of these projects have very obvious flat circle components but others are more hidden!

Just click the links to see the free patterns.

1. Crochet Circle Tote Bag / 2. Crochet Parker Hat / 3. Crochet Happy Monkey

4. Crochet Bunny Lovey / 5. Crochet June Sun Hat / 6. Crochet Rover Circle Bag

The Yarn

In this video tutorial I use Lion Brand Wool Ease Thick & Quick – one of my all-time favorite yarns! It’s great for myriad projects but also for learning new stitches and techniques, like how to crochet a flat circle!

Wool Ease Thick & Quick comes in a ton of beautiful colors and my favorite is the color I used called Fisherman. It’s a stunning off-white that’s not too yellow. It’s a beautiful cream color that fits just about everyone’s taste!

Shop the Wool Ease Thick & Quick yarn here.

How to Crochet a Flat Circle PATTERN

MATERIALS

-Any yarn and corresponding hook size

I used Lion Brand Wool Ease Thick & Quick yarn in the color Fisherman and a K 6.5mm crochet hook

-Stitch marker (a bobbi pin or spare piece of yarn in another color works fine for this)

NOTES

-See abbreviations below the written instructions.
-Place a stitch marker in the first stitch of each round. Be sure to move it up when you begin each round.
-Numbers within < > indicate the number of final stitches in that round. Be sure to double check your stitch counts so that you make sure you are on track to make a perfect flat circle.
-This pattern creates a circle working in continuous rounds without a seam. If you wish to join your rounds simply slip stitch at the end of each round and chain 1 stitch.
-When the pattern reads “inc, sec 2; rep around” that means: increase (two single crochets in the same stitch) once, single crochet in each of the following two stitches, repeat this entire sequence over and over until you’ve finished the round.
-Save this page to your Pinterest board if you need to watch it often to remember how to make a flat circle.

Video Tutorial:

Written instructions:

Make a magic ring

Round 1: Ch 1, 6 sc into magic ring <6>

Round 2: Inc around <12>

Round 3: Inc, sc; rep around <18>

Round 4: Inc, sc 2; rep around <24>

Round 5: Inc, sc 3; rep around <30>

Continue on in this method by adding one extra sc after the increases and make the flat circle as large as you like – it could keep going forever! I’ll take you through Round 10 here in the written instructions so you can get the hang of it.

Round 6: Inc, sc 4; rep around <36>

Round 7: Inc, sc 5; rep around <42>

Round 8: Inc, sc 6; rep around <48>

Round 9: Inc, sc 7; rep around <54>

Round 10: Inc, sc 8; rep around <60>

Continue.

Abbreviations (US Terms):

ch – chain

inc – increase (2 single crochets in the same stitch)

rep – repeat

sc – single crochet

st(s) – stitch(es)

The post How to Crochet a Flat Circle appeared first on Sewrella.

I present to you: the very best yarns to make the blanket of your dreams! Whether you knit or crochet, I have some patterns and kits here for you to make that dream a reality. I chose my three favorite bulky, chunky yarns, that I think you’ll ooh and ahh at too.

Even if you know of them or use them all the time, I hope I introduce you to a new pattern to make for the ultimate cozy couch snuggles. Because who are we kidding – it’s not a good snuggle without a throw that has premium cuddly powers, and any of these yarns are capable of that. Let’s just refer to them as superhero yarns, okay?

Scroll on down to find your Superman!

Lion Brand Wool-Ease Thick & Quick Yarn

If you ask me – and I think a lot of other yarnies would agree – Wool-Ease Thick & Quick (affectionately known as WETQ) is the blanket yarn. If you’re a new crafter, or not yet part of the fan club for this yarn… Prepare to be converted!

This particular Lion Brand line has gained such a following that they have now made over 60 different colors – wowza! It’s made of a wool acrylic blend, which creates a soft and cozy strand that works up just perfectly for blankets, throws, and afghans of any size!

There’s also bonus bundles that include twice the yardage, making it easier than ever to tackle those big projects! It’s pretty incredible. Thanks for doing us a solid, LB!

1. Crochet Mini Basketweave Blanket by Sewrella
2. Crochet Daydream Blanket by One Dog Woof
3. Knit Taos Lap Blanket by Two of Wands
4. Crochet Cross Bobble Blanket by All About Ami

Lion Brand Color Made Easy Yarn

This bulky weight 5 yarn is so special because not only is this weight hard to come by, Lion Brand really nailed it! When I first locked eyes with it, I fell in love! I’m talking swoon-worthy, magical, doe-eyed love.

It’s got this plushy, marshmallow-like feel that is just unlike anything else. Disclaimer: it will make you praise the yarn gods. Seriously. But wait, it gets better! This squishy skein is workin’ with quite a bit of yardage, clocking in at dang-near 250 yards! You can easily get two small projects out of one ball – like my headband pattern HERE.

Whether you have your eye on a pattern for this gem or not, make sure to pick some up the next time you see it in your local craft store! Trust me, it’s an essential you want to you have in your stash for any project (yes, ANY project!).

1. Knit Plaid Blanket (in 3 sizes!) by Sewrella
2. Knit All These Places Blanket by 5410 Studio
3. Crochet Quad Color Throw by Make & Do Crew
4. The Knit Signature Blanket by NorthKnits

Bernat Blanket Yarn

Bernat is killin’ it over here with their oh-so soft and cozy blanket yarn. It’s a chenille-style super bulky weight yarn, which makes it perfect for snuggling up in on cold nights. It’s one of my favorites to work with for all kinds of home decor projects!

It’s so popular, Bernat has even made several other sub-collections – all of which are just as amazing. But all the patterns you will find below are from the original line, which boasts over 30 shades (!!!) of solids and variegated colors. Honestly, this squish-tastic yarn is a staple that you just have to try. It’s definitely a must-have to keep on hand!

1. Crochet Farmhouse Ripple Throw by Sewrella
2. Crochet Country Snow Window Afghan
3. Knit Rose Leaf Blanket
4. Crochet Loopy Dots Blanket

OTHER SUMMER ESSENTIAL FREE CROCHET PATTERNS

1. Crochet Joni Topper / 2. Crochet Double Scoop Shawl / 3. Crochet June Sun Hat

The post The Best Blanket Yarns for Knit & Crochet Patterns appeared first on Sewrella.

Lion Brand’s Wool-Ease Thick & Quick is such a great bulky weight yarn to have in your stash. You can use it for so many projects – sweaters, baskets, blankets (see all below), you name it! So I pulled together a little bit of everything. There really is something for everyone here in this post, promise! But before you scroll all the way down to the good stuff, let’s chat about the menagerie of colors LB has graced us with.

COLORS, COLORS, COLORS!

Oh boy, where do I even begin?! We’ve got over 70 colorways here y’all, so hang in there with me… I grabbed a good variety of what Lion Brand has to offer with this yarn to show you here. So we have semisolids, 2-ply color twisting action, speckles, and SHIMMER (check out that galaxy!). There’s both warm and cool tones for you to work with throughout any season. In short, if you are partial to a bulkier yarn, you could probably live off of this line for the rest of your makes (ever) and not once be disappointed. Yes, it’s that good.

OTHER WARM & FUZZY CROCHET PATTERNS

1. Crochet Maui Hat  / 2. Crochet Cuddler Cocoon Sweater  / 3. Crochet Heirloom Cabled Sweater

MY EXPERIENCE WITH THIS YARN

This knit sweater WIP (work in progress) was my first big knit design. I was a newbie myself, and I knew my readers would be too. So a chunky yarn and easy stitches were essential in making this pattern approachable for everyone. The beginners would find something they can make – even through the fumbling of two instruments instead of one in crochet – and my more experienced knitters have a breeze of a pattern to work up while it is still a stunning finished piece! And Wool-Ease was my secret ingredient in making all that happen. Plus, who doesn’t love a pretty sweater made from soft, plushy, pillow-y yarn?!

Did I mention there’s a giveaway too? Well THERE’S A GIVEAWAY! However, I urge you not to skip a glance at these patterns. They’re all gems, really. Pay them a minute of your time, and you may even find something you (or a loved one) would adore along the way! Myself and my fellow designers featured here thank you. <3

PATTERNS

Click the photos or title links below to check out the patterns!

1. Crochet Bubblegum Pullover Sweater Kit by Sewrella – This sweater is made of easy double crochets, and probably one of my quickest sweater patterns. Oh, and it’s super cozy too.
2. Knit Cinnamon Swirl Mittens Kit by Knitting Wonders – I am LOVING these mittens y’all. I’m tempted to make some for myself. Plus you only need two skeins to make them! Affordable and cute? I don’t think you can ask for more.
3. Crochet Waistcoat Basket Kit by All About Ami – I don’t know about you, but I love a good basket. Especially ones that are sturdy enough to hold my infinite amounts of yarn. But you could store anything in here! It’s an easy fix to decluttering your home, while still looking chic!
4. Crochet Huntress Vest Kit by Two of Wands – This vest is so unique and I just love everything about it, so I had to include it here. Notice all the different stitches and the textured detail! It’s so trendy and edgy – who knew such words could be used to describe a crochet piece?! Hats off to you, Alexi.
5. Simple Knit Sweater Kit by Sewrella – This pattern was made for the person who hasn’t touched knitting needles before. As with any new craft, you may have some trial and error if you’re a beginner, but don’t let that hold you back! I certainly didn’t, because I myself dove into the unknown of knitting with this garment and I’m pretty dang proud of the result.
6. Crochet Fair Isle Biscotti Hat Kit by Hopeful Honey – Another quick, two skein pattern! This hat is slouchy and comfy, yet eye-catching (and not to mention warm!). I love the color work and pom pom on the back. Pom poms are always a must.
7. Crochet “World Turtle” Succulent Pot Holder Kit by Knot Bad – Bring your house plants to life with this sweet little turtle! He’s the perfect accessory to spice up your home decor. This would also make a great gift for the turtle lover in your life.
8. Knit Mexican Blanket by Two of Wands – Ohhh, this blanket. I am a sucker for neutrals, and this is the perfect, unique aztec-y piece to have on hand. Besides, when a friend stays over for the night, they are going to want this blanket to snuggle up in. Just take my word for it.
9. Weave Ornamental Wall Hanging Kit by Sarah Zee – Wall hangings and macrame have become the ultimate modern, homey accent, and I am for it. I’m also loving all the different elements used in this one! Braiding and fringe? Come on! The colors are also reminding me of candy canes, so is there really any reason why you shouldn’t make this? I think not.
10. Crochet Cozy Blanket Cardi by Mama in a Stitch – I love a shrug that’s big and roomy. Pair this beauty with a sweater or long sleeve top and bam! You’re ready for a cozy, fun snow-filled day in the mountains.
    
11. Crochet Rugby Blanket Kit by Yarn Hook Needles – What a wonderful throw this is! This yarn might as well have been made for blankets. Blankets are made to keep you warm, right? Yes. And this one is sure to keep you toasty all night long.
    
12. Knit Alpine Cable Pullover Kit by Two of Wands – I’m also a sucker for some nice cabling. If you’re looking for a classic, comfy sweater, look no further. I’m a firm believer that everyone needs a warm and cozy sweater hanging in their closet, and this is just the thing.
    

I hope you found a pattern you’d love to make with Lion Brand’s Wool Ease Thick & Quick! Thanks so much for checking out these patterns using my affiliate links to make your purchases – the proceeds help support this blog and its free content!

ENTER THE GIVEAWAY FOR 10 SKEINS OF LION BRAND’S WOOL-EASE THICK & QUICK!

Earning a Living with my Handmade Home

If you love crocheting and knitting, you should think about starting a blog! I’ll help you get started to turn your hobby into a money-making career with my free “Start a Blog” guide.

Or you can check out my latest income report to see how this blog earned over $10,000 last month!

The post A Variety of Wool-Ease Thick & Quick Crochet and Knit Patterns appeared first on Sewrella.

I think a lot of people (myself included!) get caught up in making sweaters and garments during the cooler weather. But most crochet home decor can be worked up quicker and simpler, especially if you’re looking for easy gift ideas. So I’ve gathered up my favorite patterns right here for ya! All of them would be really fun to Christmas-ify (can we make that a word please?!), which means to make something Christmas themed or inspired. Here, I’ll even use it in a sentence, for clarification purposes… “Let’s Christmasify the entire house! Yes Brenda, that means we now live in a gingerbread house. But look at the upside – it’s edible!” Too far? I think not. My family doesn’t joke about holidays.

Quick side note about actually living in a gingerbread house – have any of you been to the Grand Floridian Disney World hotel in Orlando, FL during the holidays? If you’re a local, this is something you just have to experience. At multiple Disney hotels, their pastry chefs spend a crazy amount of hours baking and building life size gingerbread displays! Click here to read about last year’s creations. Just thought some fellow Disney fans would appreciate nerding out with me.

Scroll on down to find a free crochet pattern to make! Click here to shop all my favorite maker tools – hooks, needles, makeup, snacks…

OTHER QUICK CROCHET PATTERNS I LOVE (and you should too!)

1. DIY Yarn Scrap Earrings  / 2. Crochet Ice Cream Coozie  / 3. Crochet Puff Stitch Slouchy Beanie

PATTERNS

Click the photos or title links below to check out the patterns!

1. DIY Yarn Loop Wreath with Bernat Blanket EZ – This new loop yarn is all the craze right now, but I wanted to take it in a different direction with a diy project. It had been a minute I’d done something easy and crafty for y’all, and this was just the perfect thing! This yarn creates a fluffy, cloud-like texture that you don’t often see in a wreath. Adorn this home accessory with seasonal or homey accents and you’re ready to hang it outside your front door, or on the wall inside!
2. Crochet Cactus Coasters – These so-cute-I-wanna-pinch-’em coasters are as functional as they are adorable! I made them with Lion Brand’s 24/7 Cotton, making them super durable for drinks that sweat. And don’t worry if they get stained – this yarn stand up well to washing too!
3. Crochet Homemaker Throw – This gingham pattern throw blanket holds a special place in my heart. I think it’s safe to say that I welcome several shades of pink in all aspects of life, so it was only fitting that I have a classic, comfy blanket in a rosy blush color. And believe it or not, this is the blanket my husband reaches for first when lounging on the couch! (Thank you soft & fuzzy Touch of Alpaca yarn!)
4. Crochet Knit Look Pillow (with Sierra!) – I may or may not claim this to be the easiest pattern ever… Why, you ask? Because it’s made of only slip stitches! (yes, you read that right) That’s how you get this beautifully clean knit look, without learning a new craft. All thanks to Sierra from Sweet Everly B! We appreciate your easy and pretty patterns.
5. Crochet Rosette Bunting – This sweet little bunting is perfect for anywhere in your home! Tack it underneath some photos on the wall, on your mantle, or in front of a cabinet like I did here.
6. Crochet Heirloom Cabled Throw – My goodness, I could stare at these cables all day. Don’t get me wrong, designing this pattern tested my patience a bit but the end result is sooo worth it! Plus, I have some easy tutorials for you to follow, making this a great pattern for the beginner cabler.
7. Crochet Magnolia Bobble Pillow – Joanna Gaines is one of my favorite humans, and I am just obsessed with her Magnolia home decor line. I found a similar looking pillow to this, got seriously inspired, and set out to make my own. And here it is! Click here if you feel like going down a deep rabbit hole and drooling over all her amazing things!
8. Crochet Flower Pot – My fun flower pot would be so cute worked up in any combination of colors to make a stunning bouquet! This pattern makes a great gift for the holidays, birthdays, Mother’s Day, or simply just because! The possibilities are endless here.
9. Crochet Mini Basketweave Blanket – This blanket came out so soft and snuggly! You’ll need 12 of these bad boys in oatmeal – or any color. (there’s over 30 to pick from!)
   
10. Easy Beginner Crochet Coasters – You get a coaster, and you get a coaster, everybody gets coasters!! (Anyone else grow up watching Oprah? It’s one of my favorite pastimes.) This pattern is really quick to stitch up, making this a great go to gift idea for the holidays! All you need is some cotton yarn and a hook and you’re ready crochet some coasters like it’s going out of style.
    

I hope you found a pattern you’d love to make for your home! Thanks so much for checking out these patterns using my affiliate links to make your purchases – the proceeds help support this blog and its free content!

Earning a Living with my Handmade Home

If you love crocheting and knitting, you should think about starting a blog! I’ll help you get started to turn your hobby into a money-making career with my free “Start a Blog” guide.

Or you can check out my latest income report to see how this blog earned over $10,000 last month!

The post 10 Free Crochet Home Decor Patterns appeared first on Sewrella.

The picture above is a perfect expression of how I feel about fall. Excited and giddy, with a sprinkle of impatience. (c’mon global warming, cut us some slack!) This week, I have for you not only my favorite fall garments, but some of my favorite garments ever because – as I mentioned above – fall is my favorite! (am I saying favorite too much?) The point is, you guys, that you’re in for a treat.

We’ve got some oldies but goodies mixed in with some more current patterns. So if you’re a seasoned reader and been with me a while (bless your heart!), this will be a great mini refresh of the past couple of years. If you’re new (hi, and welcome! *waves*), this is a crash course in garments for the season. I hope you all find something you love, and happy crocheting!

Pst! Grab some of my favorite tools and materials HERE! I’ve got it all – hooks, needles, makeup, snacks…

OTHER PATTERNS TO MAKE FOR FALL (because COZY)

1. Crochet Slouchy Stripe Sweater  / 2. Crochet Pucker Pullover Sweater  / 3. Crochet Mini Basketweave Blanket

PATTERNS

Click the photos or title links below to check out the blog post with the free pattern or click the link at the end of the pattern description to purchase an ad free, large print, printable PDF file from my Etsy shop!

1. Crochet Heirloom Cabled Sweater – I had to start off with this gem of a sweater. I promise, I take you through step by step on these cables so there’s nothing for you to worry about! I love it because it’s sturdy while still being comfy and cozy. (Click here to buy the Etsy pattern for $3.50!)
2. Crochet Maui Hat (with Handmade Home Fibers!) – This hat is the perfect pattern for gifts! It only takes one skein and you could make a few in a day. Or, ya know, just make a few in a different colors for yourself. (Click here to buy the Etsy pattern for $3.50!)
3. Crochet Ruffle Sleeve Cardigan – This ruffle sleeve cardigan is so easy! The perfect pattern for crochet newcomers who want to break into making garments. ALL double crochets and simple seaming. You’ll be done with it and onto your next garment before you know it! (Click here to buy the Etsy pattern for $3.50!)
4. Crochet Wishing Well Wrap – This wrap is a favorite amongst my followers and it’s because of that cake yarn! (read all about it here) It’s self-striping and wonderful and you just gotta try it. (Click here to buy the Etsy pattern for $3.50!)
5. Crochet Ava Poncho – Ava here just recently got a new style! While she looks fun and feminine dressed up, I wanted to show everyone how to style her more casually. And for me, that meant pairing her with a baseball cap, a flannel, jeans, and some comfy sneaks. Totally not what you would think if you saw this hanging in a store, right? Well that’s what I’m here for folks – to think outside the box for ya! (Click here to buy the Etsy pattern for $3.50!)
6. Crochet Jean Jacket Cardigan – Ah, yes. The jean jacket cardigan – my old friend. This one had to make the list because it’s such a classic! You know how denim has that thick and sturdy feel, yet it still feels cool? I made all that happen right here too. EXCEPT you also have a softness and stretch that you don’t generally have with denim jackets. You’re welcome. (Click here to buy the Etsy pattern for $3.50!)
7. Crochet Amethyst Wrap – These scallops and the colorway that reminds me of one of my favorite gem stones has me swooning. It’s such an easy and fun make! Another great pattern for gifts. And with so many pretty variegated colors on the market, it would look beautiful in anything! (Click here to buy the Etsy pattern for $3.50!)
8. Crochet Confetti Cardigan (with Handmade Home Fibers!) – What a stunner, am I right? This was my first make with my own hand dyed yarn and I am just in love with it. Those speckles make it feel like a party, where you’re the birthday girl – every. day. Need I say more? (Click here to buy the Etsy pattern for $3.50!)

I hope you found a garment you’d love to make for Fall! Thanks so much for checking out these patterns using my affiliate links to make your purchases – the proceeds help support this blog and its free content!

Earning a Living with my Handmade Home

If you love crocheting and knitting, you should think about starting a blog! I’ll help you get started to turn your hobby into a money-making career with my free “Start a Blog” guide.

Or you can check out my latest income report to see how this blog earned over $10,000 last month!

The post My Favorite Crochet Garments for Fall appeared first on Sewrella.

It’s (un)officially fall over here! I mean, maybe it’s not and the wave of fall and Halloween things are smothering you already – in which case, this probably isn’t the post for you. Because I personally cannot wait for some cooler weather here in Florida and to fill my home with all the cute pumpkin-y things. So, here is some inspiration for ya from me and my guest designers! Happy Halloween season everybody!

OTHER PATTERNS TO MAKE FOR FALL

1. Crochet Slouchy Stripe Sweater  / 2. Crochet Pucker Pullover Sweater  / 3. Crochet Mini Basketweave Blanket

PATTERNS

Click the photos or title links below to check out the blog post with the free pattern or click the link at the end of the pattern description to purchase an ad free, large print, printable PDF file from my Etsy shop!

1. Crochet Little White Pumpkin Ornament from Sewrella – What better pattern to start with than this adorable baby punkin! (sorry, gotta give the baby things cute baby names, like punkin) This little guy whips up unbelievably quick, so you can make a bunch to string together to make a garland, use them as ornaments on your Christmas tree (I like to think pumpkins are still relevant after Halloween), or make them as little fall party favors. This cutie fits into so many great scenarios. (Click here to buy the Etsy pattern for $1.99!)
2. Crochet Pumpkin Spice Headband from Sewrella – Fun fact: this headband also doubles as a cozy ear warmer! And I gotta tell ya, this project makes a quick & easy, budget-friendly gift. With only three balls of yarn, you could make FOUR of these babies!
3. Crochet Frankenstein Cowl with Vincent from Knot Bad – Need a festive, easy costume idea? This is your answer, friend! Vincent here shared this pattern with you and I (for free!) making our busy mom lives a bit simpler this season. 
4. Crochet Striped Pumpkin with Meg from Megmade with Love – I don’t know about y’all, but I’m a SUPER FAN of stripes, so I’m partial to this pattern. If you don’t have access to a pumpkin patch or don’t want to worry about your real pumpkins rotting, this is a great (non-rotting) alternative. Plus, these would look so cute in a variety of colors!
5. Crochet Pumpkin Parker Hat from Sewrella – Oh, how I miss when my little nugget was still this teeny! *sniffles* Anywho, this pattern’s sizing is available to fit infants all the way through children. Pumpkin hats for the whole family? (Click here to buy the Etsy pattern for $1.99!)
6. Crochet Frankenstein Trick-or-Treat Bag from Sewrella – This bag is so cute and fun for little ones! It’s made with Vanna’s Choice from Lion Brand, which is a nice and sturdy medium weight category 4, acrylic based yarn – making this a very functional alternative to the typical plastic pumpkin buckets. See Frankenstein’s big brother below… (Click here to buy the Etsy pattern for $1.99!)
7. Crochet Pumpkin Trick-or-Treat Bag from Sewrella – …Enter the pumpkin bag! It’s made slightly larger with the same Vanna’s Choice yarn. This is a bit more ideal for bigger kids who can handle more candy (or can they?), but it’s the illusion that counts, right? (Click here to buy the Etsy pattern for $1.99!)

I hope you found a pattern you’d love to make for Halloween! Thanks so much for checking out these patterns using my affiliate links to make your purchases – the proceeds help support this blog and its free content!

Earning a Living with my Handmade Home

If you love crocheting and knitting, you should think about starting a blog! I’ll help you get started to turn your hobby into a money-making career with my free “Start a Blog” guide.

Or you can check out my latest income report to see how this blog earned over $10,000 last month!

The post Free Halloween Crochet Pattern Roundup appeared first on Sewrella.

To get the free patterns, just click the bolded link or the photo of the pattern.

See more Sewrella Roundups here!

• Glitter Heart Pillow by Lionbrand

• Bernat Valentines Tablecloth by Yarnspirations

• Bernat Valentine Heart Scarf by Yarnspirations

• Lily Sugar ‘n Cream Heart Valentine Candy Basket by Yarnspirations

• Lily Sugar ‘n Cream Be My Valentine Dishcloth by Yarnspirations

• Lily Sugar ‘n Cream Heart Shaped Candy Bag by Yarnspirations

• Loving Hearts Headband by Red Heart

• Sweet Hearts by Red Heart

• Heart Tote Bag by Red Heart

• Amigurumi Love Birds by Lionbrand

Earning a Living with my Handmade Home

If you love crocheting and knitting, you should think about starting a blog! I’ll help you get started to turn your hobby into a money-making career with my free “Start a Blog” guide.

Or you can check out my latest income report to see how this blog earned over $10,000 last month!

The post 10 Swoon-worthy Crochet Valentine’s Day Patterns appeared first on Sewrella.