I’d always heard of blogging, heck – I read a lot of blogs for recipes, crochet patterns, DIY ideas, and other things. I was a Pinterest junkie since way back when you had to be “invited” to have a Pinterest profile circa 2010 (anybody remember that?!). I’ve always been crafty and creative but I never had an outlet for it in a way that could make a large impact on my life. I just picked up random crafty hobbies throughout the years like sewing my own dresses out of quilting cotton and going crazy with creative Christmas gift wrapping.

I taught myself to crochet (and ultimately knit) on youtube while my great grandmother Betty was in the hospital with a failing heart. All there was to do was to sit around and wait for doctors and tests to tell us what we already knew: we were losing the matriarch of our family. I needed something to focus on and since Betty had been the craftiest lady I’d ever known (she never crocheted or knit but she did extensive cross stitch, embroidery, and TONS of sewing – including my mom’s bridesmaids’ dresses!) so I wanted to pick up a hobby that made me feel more connected to her before she was gone.

I remember wondering the craft store in a daze, looking for something I could do while waiting at the hospital. Sewing was out, I couldn’t bring a sewing machine to the waiting room. Cross stitch seemed too focused, I needed something more repetitive. Then I saw a skein of Lion Brand Wool Ease Thick & Quick on an endcap. The elusive fisherman colorway was in my hands before I knew it. I didn’t know to read the yarn label to see what hook size to buy so I picked up a Susan Bates N hook just because it was gold.

I went home and watched hours of youtube videos and learned the basic stitches. Before I knew it I had a scarf going and I haven’t stopped crocheting since. Betty passed away about a week later and I crocheted on the drive to and from her funeral services. In some ways it feels like I’ll crochet forever just to keep a piece of her with me.

Fast forward about two years later, as I am in college studying English Literature and working hard at craft coffee shops around town, all the while crocheting constantly. I was even called “grandma” lovingly by my other young coworkers. When I got pregnant with my partner of about seven years, it was a surprise and an awakening. I realized two things pretty quickly:

1. I didn’t love the life I was working toward. I had no desire to move up through the ranks at the coffee shop and I remained focused on school. But I was studying to eventually become an english teacher, a dream that didn’t feel like it quite fit. Although I loved books and learning, I always dreamed of doing something very creative with my life. I secretly hoped that I would write the great American novel while teaching and eventually slip out of that confined job. Though those are lofty expectations with a baby on the way and only a half finished english degree.
2. I needed a good paying job, and fast. Minimum wage plus tips wasn’t going to cut it and while by husband was busy building his business from the ground up (now a larger-than-life printing business) I needed to try to fill in the gaps.

While I was pregnant I knew I had a shot. A short window of a few months that I could dedicate to trying to build something. When my fall semester ended, I left school and the coffee shop with a dream and a crazy work ethic. I told myself this:

If I can make enough money to buy our groceries by the time the baby comes in May then I will keep going with whatever this creative idea turns out to be. And if it ever stops making money I will go back to my normal life.

But what creative idea do I run with? What could I turn into an income?

I’d been reading a lot of crochet blog over the last couple of years since I’d begun crocheting but even more so after I got pregnant as I made things for the baby. I thought to myself that these men and women that write these blogs just started them one day. They didn’t have any more training than I do now so let’s see if I can do the same thing. I’d already been making up some of my own patterns when I couldn’t find what I wanted online so I felt it could work.

I created my crochet blog website, Sewrella.com, on Christmas Day of 2015 (did I mention my crazy work ethic? Who starts a business on Christmas Day??). I spent the first several weeks figuring out how to post a crochet blog post and write a pattern, though I still had a lot to figure out on my own that took YEARS to master.

I worked diligently at creating patterns for my crochet blog, from scarves to granny square tutorials, and even intricate blankets. I worked seven days a week and I created dozens of crochet blog posts by the time the baby came in May. During that month I made $800 from my crochet blog and it was determined that I could keep blogging as long as it kept making money to help support my family.

Sewrella has earned more money every month since then as I’ve continued to build a repertoire of blog posts, tutorials, and designs even working with big companies like Lion Brand Yarn, JOANN, and Michaels Stores.

Oh yeah, back to walking down the streets of New York with Lion Brand – this was a little over a year after I started blogging. For some reason they saw my granny squares and my tenacity and though I deserved a seat at that table. I’m still not sure what potential they saw back then, since I still had SO much to figure out. But they saw it and they knew where I could go.

Over the last few years this crochet blog has turned into something I never thought possible. It’s afforded me a comfortable financial life – something that seemed so far out of reach when I found out I was pregnant without a concrete plan – and it’s given me the creative freedom that feeds my soul. It has not been without hard, consistent work but MAN has it been worth it.

After sharing my story, I’ve been asked a lot of specific questions about how I got from A to Z. How I went from starting my crochet blog on Christmas Day four years ago to making a six-figure income. The dos and don’ts of writing a crochet pattern. How to work with brands. How to take beautiful photos. How to use social media in ways that will amplify my blog instead of just waste time.

I’ve written a comprehensive online course that answers all of these questions and lots more, The Sewrella Method. I talk in depth about the big wins and the even bigger misses so that you don’t have to figure it out alone.

There is also a wonderfully engaged online forum called the Neighborhood that’s a place to talk with like-minded students about course content as well as your own personal journeys. It’s a place to ask questions, share ideas, and work together toward our own common goal of being amazing crochet bloggers.

If you aren’t sure, no sweat! Check out the chapter previews and course quiz on the Sewrella Method website to see if it’s a good fit. We’ll be here when you’re ready.

The post My Journey to Sewrella 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.

This project is very beginner friendly and creates a soft, feminine finished wrap. Read on below about the inspiration and yarn details, or scroll on down for the free pattern.

The Inspiration + Design

This design was heavily inspired by the texture of the yarn I used (read more on the yarn below!)

Once I saw this yarn I knew it would make an incredible pom pom. Some yarns really fluff out and make the most gorgeous poms while others look kinda stringy and odd. The fluffy fiber content and construction of this amazing new yarn were made for the fluffiest poms!

How do I incorporate a pom pom into a wearable? I wanted to wrap myself up in this yarn once I saw it so I knew some kind of shawl would be just the ticket. And when I couldn’t choose just one color to work with, I decided to make a soft color blocked design with some open lacy stitches. (This animal fiber is warm so I wanted to make sure this project could transition through many seasons easily.) I added pom pom ties to either end of my triangle and tied the whole color scheme together by making them with all three colors of the yarn I used. I’m so in love with how soft, fluffy, and feminine this project is!

This shawl is called “convertible” because these long ties allow you to wear this piece in many ways – I’ve shown you three different configurations here:

• [center] the triangle scarf – wrap around you neck, cross sides of triangle at the back of the neck, bring ties to front and tie neatly in a bow
• [left] the criss cross top – wrap across your front, cross sides of triangle at center back, bring ties to front under the arms and tie at waist
• [right] the classic shawl – drape over shoulders, bring sides of triangle to front center chest, tie triangle sides in a loose knot, wrap and hide ties in knot to leave poms just below the knot

The Yarn

When Lion Brand yarn gave me a super secret preview of a new yarn of theirs I squealed with excitement. The yarn I used is called Chainette and it’s the softest yarn I’ve felt in a long time! It’s name comes from the chain-like braided construction (instead of the standard twist we usually see in yarn) and this means the yarn never splits and has beautiful stitch definition.

The fiber content of this yarn is 70% alpaca (!!!) 18% virgin wool and 12& polyamide (for durability). It’s hard to find alpaca forward yarns and even when you do, they’re usually really expensive. Chainette from Lion Brand is part of their LB Collection which means these yarns are only sold on their website, not in any stores – so they’re able to deliver really high quality, luxe yarns at a super affordable price. I’m a big fan of the LB Collection – I made my Ava Poncho in the Cotton Bamboo yarn from that line and have lots more plans with these yarns soon!

My other favorite thing about this yarn is the color palette. Every single color is stunning in person and they all mix and match SO well. I went with a soft, feminine palette with Pink, Beige, and Cream but you could easily make this shawl in any one solid color or a darker, moodier palette of dark navy, olive, and mustard. The options are endless!

Using Chainette yarn was definitely the best part of this project – Click HERE to check out this gorgeous new yarn (you won’t believe how affordable it is!)

The Kit

Lion Brand has put together a kit for this project that includes all the yarn you need and a printed copy of the entire pattern (yes, even those step by step photos!).

Due to this pattern being made in a LB Collection yarn and only available on the LB website, the introductory kit price is the best deal you’ll find on the Elle Convertible Shawl at 20% off this week!

Shopping through my link HERE also kicks back a small percentage to us here at the blog at no additional cost to you – it’s how I’m able to keep the free crochet patterns coming so thank you!

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.
• Add this pattern to your Ravelry queue HERE.

To sum it up: A colorblock convertible shawl with simple openwork linear lace and the fluffiest pom pom ties you’ve ever seen! The ties allow Elle to be worn in several ways and it’s so much fun to explore new ways to wear her. Lion Brand Chainette yarn is the key to this fluffy feminine look with the perfect mix and match color palette.

Materials:

–Lion Brand Chainette yarn (Weight: 4/Medium – 1.75oz, 131 yds)

2 skeins each Cream, Blush, Taupe

Grab the KIT with everything you need to make this shawl HERE!

–Size US G 4mm crochet hook

–Tapestry needle

–3” Pom pom maker (optional)

Gauge:

14 sts x 8 rows in dc = 4”

Abbreviations (US terms):

Ch – chain

st st – slip stitch

Sc – single crochet

Dc – double crochet

sk – skip

st(s) – stitch(es)

t – turn

rpt – repeat

* – repeat the instructions following the single asterisk as directed

Skill Level: Level 2 Easy

Pattern Notes

• This wrap is one size fits most. For reference, model is 5’5” tall with a 38” bust.
• Add or omit 4 row repeat to desired size. You may need additional yardage if you adjust the pattern dramatically.
• Color striping counts listed below the written pattern instructions. Please read through everything before beginning. (Check out the stitch chart at the bottom of the pattern!)
• Ch 4 at beginning of rows always counts as a Dc and Ch 1
• St counts always count Dc sts only (not ch spaces)

Elle Convertible Shawl

Poms

First, make 2 3” pom poms using a Clover Pom Pom maker (or your preffered method).

To make a multicolored pom, hold all 3 strands together, one of each color, & wrap the pom pom maker until full.

Trim to make even, leaving tails to tie onto shawl. Repeat.

Shawl

With Blush yarn, Ch 7, sl st to first Ch st to form a ring

Row 1: Ch 4, (7 Dc, Ch 2, 7 Dc, Ch 1, Dc) in ring (16)

Row 2: Ch 4, t, Dc in first Dc, Ch 1, sk next Ch 1 space, Dc next Dc, (Ch1, skip next Dc, Dc in next Dc) to center Ch 2 space, Ch 1, (Dc, Ch 2, Dc) in center Ch 2 space, Ch 1, (Dc, Ch 1, Dc) to turning Ch 4 space, Ch 1, (Dc, Ch 1, Dc) in turning Ch space (14)

Row 3: Ch 4, t, Dc in first Dc, (Ch 1, sk next Ch 1 space, Dc in next Dc) to center Ch 2 space, Ch 1, (Dc, Ch 2, Dc) in center Ch 2 space, Ch 1, Dc in next Dc, (Ch 1, sk next Ch 2 space, Dc next Dc) to turning Ch space, Ch 1, (Dc, Ch 1, Dc) in turning Ch space (18)

Row 4: Ch 4, t, Dc in first Dc, (Ch1, sk next Ch 1 space, Dc next Dc) to center Ch 2 space, Ch 1, (Dc, Ch 2, Dc) in center Ch 2 space, Ch 1, Dc in next Dc, (Ch 1, sk next Ch 1 space, Dc in next Dc) to turning Ch space, Ch 1, (Dc, Ch 1, Dc) in turning Ch space

Row 5: Ch 4, t, Dc in first Dc, (Dc in next Ch 1 space, Dc in next Dc) to center Ch 2 space, (2 Dc, Ch 2, 2 Dc) in center Ch 2 space, Dc in next Dc, (Dc in next Ch 1 space, Dc in next Dc) to turning Ch space, Dc in turning Ch space, (Dc, Ch 1, Dc) in turning Ch space (48)

Rep Rows 2-5 until you’ve finished 37 rows.

Work 17 total rows of Blush, 12 rows of Cream, and 8 rows of Taupe.

Row 42 (or last Row): t, Ch 77, Sc in 2^nd Ch from hook and in each Ch st across, continue to

Sc in each st across last row of shawl (including in all Ch 1 spaces – work 2 Sc in center Ch 2 space) to end, continue to

Ch 77, Sc in 2^nd Ch from hook and in each Ch st across,

Finish off, weave all ends

Attach poms securely to ends of Sc strips at edges of shawl from Last Row.

Pop on your shawl and enjoy!

Looking for more SIMPLE SHAWL CROCHET PATTERNS? Check these out!

1. Crochet Le Nuage Wrap / 2. Crochet Amethyst Wrap / 3. Crochet Wishing Well Wrap

The post Crochet Elle Convertible Shawl appeared first on Sewrella.

Read through my inspiration, design process, and lots of info on the stunning yarn I chose, or scroll on down for the free pattern.

OTHER KNITTING PATTERNS I LOVE (& you should too)

1. Beginner Knit Sweater / 2. How to Knit a Plaid Blanket / 3. Cropped Holiday Knit Sweater

The Inspiration + Design

You may have seen earlier this week on the blog that I released a CROCHET Audrey Tunic in lilac! It’s been a big hit already and I’m so glad because I’ve had a knitting pattern for the same style tunic up my sleeve just waiting for you. I’m tricky like that!

When the Vel-Luxe yarn came in to me from Lion Brand, the first thing I did was swatch in crochet and knitting to decide which craft I’d utilize for this pattern. Each gave a very different look to the yarn and I really liked them both! I noticed that the guage for single crochets and stockinette stitch were almost exactly the same in width (where all the math occurs when pattern designing) and the length was about double in knitting. So it donned on me that it would be fairly easy to translate the crochet pattern to knitting!

I drafted the crochet version and started work on it to make sure I liked my idea once it was worked up. The crochet version came off the hook like a dream so I drafted up the knit version too and voila! Sister Audrey Tunics in crochet and knitting so that we never have to pick and choose.

The knit version came out a bit more loose and flowy just because knit stitches drape differently than crochet stitches that are a bit stiffer. I love both in their similarity and their differences!

The Yarn

Lion Brand has been releasing stunning yarn after stunning yarn this season and they’re not stopping with this new velvet style yarn, Vel-Luxe. It’s a worsted weight polyester based yarn that feels like crushed velvet & it really is what the label says – LUXE.

There are several velvet yarns on the market but I love this one because it’s a worsted weight (unlike the bulky ones I’ve seen) and it doesn’t shed. Let me say that again –  IT DOES NOT SHED. Hallelujah! Finally a textured yarn with incredible feel and finish without any yarn fuzzies left behind.

The color palette LB chose for this yarn is really wonderful too, it’s refined and elevated with neutrals and color that are everything we want to wear. My knit sample is in Dusty Pink, but I’m so in love with every color – it was hard to choose just one! Browse them all here.

Shop the KIT from Lion Brand for this pattern – it includes all the yarn you need and a handy printed version of the full pattern. Just click here!

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.
• Add this pattern to your Ravelry queue HERE.

To sum it up: The Audrey Tunic is a fit and flare off-the-shoulder top that’s ultra-feminine and flirty. In true Sewrella fashion, this tunic was inspired by a retro look, that of Audrey Hepburn in Roman Holiday. Taking a dramatic neckline and fitted bodice to modern day with a “just-right” length that covers the tush and flares in a flattering A-line. This design is comprised of simple stitches that work up in Lion Brand’s Vel-Luxe yarn to create a truly stunning result – people will wonder how you made it yourself!

Materials:

–Lion Brand Vel-Luxe yarn (Weight: 4/Medium – 5.3oz, 246 yds)

Color: Dusty Pink 4 (5, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9) skeins

Grab the KIT from Lion Brand Yarn here!

–Size US 7 (4.5mm) circular knitting needles, 36” long

–Stitch markers (4)

–Measuring tape

–Scissors

–Yarn needle

–Stitch holder (or spare contrast yarn)

Sizes:

XS, S, M, L, XL, 2XL, 3XL

Gauge:

12 sts x 32 rows in stockinette = 4”

Measurements:

Shoulder circumference: 34 (38, 42.5, 46.5, 51, 56, 61)″

Bust circumference: 29.5 (33, 37, 40.5, 44.5, 49, 53)″

Length (shoulder to hem): 26 (29, 31, 33, 36, 39, 42)″

Armhole depth: 11 (12.5, 14, 15.5, 17, 18.5, 20)″

Sleeve Length: 16.5 (17, 17, 17.5, 17.5, 18, 18)″

Abbreviations (US terms):

CO – cast on

K – knit

K2tog – knit 2 together

M1l – make 1 left

M1r – make 1 right

P – purl

Pm – place marker

Rpt – repeat

Rnd – rnd

Sm – slip marker

St(s) – stitch(es)

Skill Level:

Level 3 – intermediate

Pattern Notes

-This pattern is written to fit snuggly to the body. If you’re between sizes, please size down. (I am a 36” bust and sized down to a small.)

-Sizing listed in the pattern will be in X-Small with Small, Medium, Large, XL, 2X, and 3X listed in parentheses such as “36 (41, 46, 51, 56, 61, 66)” whereas CO 36 for size XS, 41 for size S, 46 for size M, 51 for size L, 56 for size XL, 61 for size 2X and 66 for size 3X. When only one number is given, it applies to all sizes. To follow pattern more easily, circle/highlight all numbers pertaining to your size before beginning.

-This pattern has no positive ease through the chest and shoulder area. Be sure to carefully measure.

-This tunic is worked from the top down in a seamless construction. Underarm openings will be grafted at the end.

-Counts within <> are final stitch counts for the Rnd.

-We will use the magic loop method for the sleeves, however you may use DPNs as you choose to.

-See the crochet version of this tunic here.

Off the Shoulder Velvet Tunic

Yoke:

CO 112 (124, 140, 152, 168, 184, 200) sts, join to work in the Rnd, pm to mark beginning of Rnd <112 (124, 140, 152, 168, 184, 200 sts)>

Work in K2 P2 rib until you’ve finished 10” or 80 Rnds <112 (124, 140, 152, 168, 184, 200 sts)>

Work in stockinette (K all sts) until you’ve finished 2” more or Rnd 96

Sizes XS, M, XL, 3XL ONLY: Last Rnd of stockinette K2tog at beginning of Rnd and again after making 56 (70, 84, 100) sts or about halfway around <110 (138, 166, 198)>

Split for Sleeves:

*Note: Use a different color or style stitch marker for the first of four stitch markers to mark the beginning of your Rnd.

*Place next 21 (24, 27, 30, 33, 36, 39) sts on holder (or spare yarn), pm, CO 14 (16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26) for underarm, pm, K next 34 (38, 42, 46, 50, 56, 60) sts; Rpt from * once more <68 (108, 120, 132, 144, 160, 172 sts)>

Next Rnd: K all sts, slipping all markers <96 (108, 120, 132, 144, 160, 172 sts)>

Body:

Rnd 1: *Sm, M1r, K to next marker, sm, M1l, K to next marker, sm, M1l, K to next marker, sm, M1r, K to next marker <100 (112, 124, 136, 148, 164, 176 sts)>

Rnds 2-8: K all sts, slipping all markers <100 (112, 124, 136, 148, 164, 176 sts)>

Rpt Rnds 1-8 until you’ve finished 16 (18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28)” from underarm or 128 (144, 160, 176, 192, 208, 224) Rnds <160 (180, 200, 220, 240, 264, 284 Sc)>

Ribbing:

*Note: Drop stitch markers when you begin ribbing.

Work in K2 P2 rib for 2” or 16 Rnds <160 (180, 200, 220, 240, 264, 284 sts)>

Cast off with a stretchy bind off technique (I like this one on Youtube from VeryPinkKnits), weave ends.

Sleeves:

Place 21 (24, 27, 30, 33, 36, 39) sts from holder onto needles, rejoin yarn at the beginning of the Rnd.

Rnd 1: CO 14 (16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26) sts for underarm, K to end of Rnd, pm to mark beginning of Rnd <35 (40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65 sts)>

Rnd 2: K2tog, K remaining sts, sm <34 (39, 44, 49, 54, 59, 64 sts)>

Rnds 3-9: K all sts, sm <34 (39, 44, 49, 54, 59, 64 sts)>

Rpt Rnds 2-9 until you’ve finished 16.5 (17, 17, 17.5, 17.5, 18, 18)” of sleeve or 132 (136, 136, 140, 140, 144, 144) Rnds <18 (22, 27, 31, 36, 41, 46 sts)>

Finish off, weave ends.

Graft underarm sts.

Fold over top 10” of yoke to fit off the shoulder. You may sew this in place if you so choose, or leave it unsewn. You’re done!

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 Knit Audrey Tunic appeared first on Sewrella.

Read on all about the inspiration, design and the funky Go For Faux yarn from Lion Brand or scroll on down for the free pattern.

Looking for more SIMPLE STITCH PATTERNS? Check these out!

1. Crochet Avery Hat / 2. Crochet University Scarf / 3. Crochet Brooklyn Ridge Hat

The Inspiration + Design

If you know me at all, you know I love Gilmore girls. I’ve been watching the show since it first aired when I was in grade school, got the box set for Christmas the year after they cancelled the series and have been bingeing ever since. It’s unhealthy, I know every line before they say it. I could bore you with a list of my favorite quotes, characters, and outfits but let’s just talk about one for now: those sherpa lined coats.

Rory and Lorelai wore several jackets in the show but some of my favorites were those sherpa lined denim and corduroy ones in the early seasons. I love sherpa, although I own nothing fuzzy because I live in Florida. So instead of sweating it out in those cute teddy-bear-snuggle-feelin’ jackets – I made a little collar topper to toss on over my light denim jacket to get the Lorelei look! This version is much cooler and so easy to make.

When I sat down to design this lil pattern, I realized it really isn’t a design – it’s just a rectangle. There is absolutely nothing fancy here, unless you find rectangles fancy. I didn’t do any fussy shaping because why bother when this looks perfect as is? Done and done.

The Yarn

I’d thought about making a collar topper before with the crochet loop stitch (and I still might!) but I wasn’t in love with the idea. It was just kinda there. I really wanted the fuzzy fluffy look of Lorelei’s jacket. So when my pals at Lion Brand showed me a sneak peek at a new faux fur yarn they were developing, I knew this tutorial was in my future!

Go For Faux yarn is unlike anything else I’ve seen. It looks in the ball how it looks when worked up, maximum fluffiness! I only used one skein (with some leftover!) to make this collar topper and I’m in love with how it came out!

There are lots of gorgeous colorways of Go For Faux yarn, some colorful and some more natural like this Pomeranian colorway I used. Isn’t that just the cutest?! Any color would look great with denim, or layered over a heavier collared coat.

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.
• Add this pattern to your Ravelry queue HERE.

To sum it up: An easy 1 skein beginner level project that you can make in about 20 minutes, start to finish! Make a removable, stylish faux fur collar with this free pattern – you won’t believe how easy and fun these are to make & to wear!

Materials:

–Lion Brand Go For Faux yarn (Weight: 6/Super Bulky – 3.5oz, 64 yds) – I used Pomeranian

-Scrap lighter weight yarn in a similar color (1-2 yds) – I used Heartland in Grand Canyon

–Size 12mm crochet hook

-Covered hook & eye (sew on, extra large) – here are the ones I bought at JOANN!

-Measuring tape

-Scissors

-Yarn needle

-Lint roller

Gauge:

about 6 sts x 4 rows in sc = 4″

Measurements:

6″ x 30″ – this may vary based on your size and your coat.

Abbreviations (US terms):

ch – chain

sc – single crochet

rpt – repeat

st(s) – stitch(es)

Skill Level:

Level 1 – beginner

Pattern Notes

-This pattern is one size fits most but can easily be adjusted to work well with any coat or size. Just change the number of chain stitches to alter the width of the collar and the number of rows of Sc to alter the length (that goes around your neck).

-Working with Go For Faux does require a bit of patience and a lint roller. This yarn will shed a bit while working with it, but I haven’t noticed a ton of fuzzing since the finished item has been worn. I’ve heard from LB that throwing your Go For Faux pieces on a low heat setting in the dryer can slough off some of the excess fuzz!

-The stitches in a fluffy yarn like this are hard to see, I’ll cop to that. However, you can feel the stitches fairly easily and make sure you count stitches as you go per row to make sure you always have 8! Luckily this piece is small and can get us started using fur yarn. The end result is so worth the couple of setbacks we may have.

-The hook and eye are crucial to this project working out – the collar won’t stay in place too well without them. However, you could substitute a 1-2″ button and pop it through the fabric as the stitches are fairly large. It will just be more visible than the hook and eye and may not give the illusion that it’s attached to the jacket. Additionally, you could affix your collar topper to a coat or jacket with velcro or fabric glue if you want it to stay there forever.

-Counts within <> are final stitch counts for the Rnd.

Crochet Collar Topper

Ch 9

Row 1: Sc in 2nd ch st and each across (8)

Rows 2-30: Ch 1, t, Sc in each st across (8)

Finish off and weave ends. Your piece should look like this!

Attach hook and eye with your scrap yarn in a similar color. I used Lion Brand Heartland yarn in Grand Canyon. You can see from my supplies photo below it’s not a match, but its in the same general color family as my Pomeranian Go For Faux yarn. That’ll do!

Sew the hook to one of the short sides at the left corner. Take care to sew around each foot of the hook several times to ensure it’ll stay put.

Sew the eye to the other short side of the piece, also at the left side. Sew securely.

Weave all ends by burying them in your Go For Faux stitches. Or knot and tie off because it’ll be hidden in the fur.

Hook together and pop on over a jacket – you’re done!

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 Crochet Collar Topper – free pattern appeared first on Sewrella.

Read through my inspiration, design process, and lots of info on the stunning yarn I chose, or scroll on down for the free pattern.

OTHER GARMENT PATTERNS I LOVE (& you should too)

1. Crochet Twist Swancho / 2. Crochet Everyday Cardigan / 3. Simple Knit Sweater

The Inspiration + Design

It’s no secret that I love everything vintage (or maybe that’s not as obvious as I think it is? Hmm…) Anyway – some of my all-time favorite movies are those of Audrey Hepburn. Namely, Roman Holiday – the one where she leaves her princess palace prison in Rome to galavant all over the city like a wild woman cutting her hair and eating gelato (basically the dream, amiright?) with dreamboat Gregory Peck. I’ve always loved everything about this movie, and the ending makes me cry every. single. time. One of my favorite elements of old movies are the fashion, and Audrey in Roman Holiday was no exception!

Her royal gown in the movie is a bare-shouldered number with a fitted bodice and full skirt. The off-the-shoulder bit looks sort of folded over and I’ve always wanted to wear a dress like that in real life. However, running around Bradenton, Florida in a full-on ball gown is a *bit* over the top. SO I decided to modernize the design and crochet the concept!

I wanted to keep the neckline and the fitted bodice but make the waist and skirt area much more flowy and comfortable. This definitely modernized the look, and making this project in a velvet style yarn really brought it to the present day. I sketched out the design and figured out rough construction. I took my own measurements and dove in, hoping for the best (but in all reality I was expecting a total flop and a pile of messy velvet yarn).

To my complete surprise, the concept worked on the first try! The neckline construction and split for sleeves fit nicely and the look was exactly what I envisioned. I kept going with the body and skirt, and it shaped up beautifully. The sleeves proved a bit tricky as I wanted a really fitted sleeve. If you look at the dress Audrey wore in the movie, her sleeves were like a second skin – they were actually extremely long gloves that met her neckline! I wanted the same ultra-slim sleeve in my piece to give that vintage vibe and really highlight the neckline. The sleeve is definitely snug but I love the way it looks!

All in all, from inspiration to concept to final design, I could not be happier with this garment. It’s perfectly unique and so Audrey (ya know, if she was young in 2018)!

The Yarn

Lion Brand has been releasing stunning yarn after stunning yarn this season and they’re not stopping with this new velvet style yarn, Vel-Luxe. It’s a worsted weight polyester based yarn that feels like crushed velvet & it really is what the label says – LUXE.

There are several velvet yarns on the market but I love this one because it’s a worsted weight (unlike the bulky ones I’ve seen) and it doesn’t shed. Let me say that again –  IT DOES NOT SHED. Hallelujah! Finally a textured yarn with incredible feel and finish without any yarn fuzzies left behind!

The color palette LB chose for this yarn is really wonderful too, it’s refined and elevated with neutrals and color that are everything we want to wear. I made my sample in Lilac, but I’m so in love with every color – it was hard to choose just one color! Browse them all here.

Shop the KIT from Lion Brand for this pattern – it includes all the yarn you need and a handy printed version of the full pattern. Just click here!

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.
• Add this pattern to your Ravelry queue HERE.

To sum it up: The Audrey Tunic is a fit and flare off-the-shoulder top that’s ultra-feminine and flirty. In true Sewrella fashion, this tunic was inspired by a retro look, that of Audrey Hepburn in Roman Holiday. Taking a dramatic neckline and fitted bodice to modern day with a “just-right” length that covers the tush and flares in a flattering A-line. This design is comprised of simple single crochets that work up in Lion Brand’s Vel-Luxe yarn to create a truly stunning result – people will wonder how you made it yourself!

Materials:

–Lion Brand Vel-Luxe yarn (Weight: 4/Medium – 5.3oz, 246 yds)

Color: Lilac 4 (5, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9) skeins

Click here to shop the kit from Lion Brand Yarn!

–Size US H 5mm crochet hook

–Stitch markers (4)

–Measuring tape

–Scissors

–Yarn needle

Sizes:

XS, S, M, L, XL, 2XL, 3XL

Gauge:

12 sts x 16 rows in sc = 4″

Measurements:

Shoulder circumference: 34 (38, 42.5, 46.5, 51, 56, 61)″

Bust circumference: 29.5 (33, 37, 40.5, 44.5, 49, 53)″

Length (shoulder to hem): 26 (29, 31, 33, 36, 39, 42)″

Armhole depth: 11 (12.5, 14, 15.5, 17, 18.5, 20)″

Sleeve Length: 16.5 (17, 17, 17.5, 17.5, 18, 18)″

Abbreviations (US terms):

ch – chain

sc – single crochet

dec – decrease

fsc – foundation sc

inc – increase (2 Sc in same st)

rnd – round

rpt – repeat

sk – skip

sl st – slip stitch

st(s) – stitch(es)

Skill Level:

Level 3 – intermediate

Pattern Notes

-This pattern is written to fit snuggly to the body. If you’re between sizes, please size down. (I am a 36” bust and sized down to a small.)

-Sizing listed in the pattern will be in X-Small with Small, Medium, Large, XL, 2X, and 3X listed in parentheses. For example, “Ch 36 (41, 46, 51, 56, 61, 66)” means Ch 36 for size XS, 41 for size S, 46 for size M, 51 for size L, 56 for size XL, 61 for size 2X and 66 for size 3X. When only one number is given, it applies to all sizes. To follow pattern more easily, circle/highlight all numbers pertaining to your size before beginning.

-The entirety of this pattern is worked without joining rounds or turning the work. The Vel-Luxe yarn doesn’t have lots of stitch definition and the fuzzy nature fills spaces between stitches. If you’d like your increase lines to be fairly linear (instead of working more in a spiral movement as with my sample) I recommend joining with a slip stitch, chaining 1, and turning the work at the end of each Rnd throughout the pattern. Proceed otherwise as instructed. (This is especially important if you’re not working with Vel-Luxe or another fuzzy yarn. If your yarn has well-defined stitches, use this join and turn method).

-This pattern has no positive ease through the chest and shoulder area. Be sure to carefully measure.

-This tunic is worked from the top down in a seamless construction. Underarm openings will be grafted at the end.

-Counts within <> are final stitch counts for the Rnd.

Crochet Audrey Tunic

Yoke:

Rnd 1: Fsc 110 (124, 138, 152, 166, 184, 198) sts, sl st to 1^st st to form a large ring making sure your work isn’t twisted, pull up loop slightly to work next stitch without chaining, place stitch marker in first st of the next Rnd <110 (124, 138, 152, 166, 184, 198 Sc)>

Working in a spiral from here on, Sc in each st around until you’ve finished 10” or 40 Rnds. Move st marker up with each Rnd.

Split for Sleeves:

*Ch 14 (16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26), sk 21 (24, 27, 30, 33, 36, 39) Sc, Sc next 34 (38, 42, 46, 50, 56, 60) sts; Rpt from * once more <68 (76, 84, 92, 100, 112, 120 Sc)>

Place stitch markers in 1^st and last Ch sts on each side (4 markers placed total). Move markers up with each Rnd forward.

Next Rnd: Sc in each st around, including Ch sts <96 (108, 120, 132, 144, 160, 172 Sc)>

Body:

Rnd 1: Sc in each Sc st around working Sc inc in each marked st <100 (112, 124, 136, 148, 164, 176 Sc)>

Rnds 2-4: Sc in each Sc st around <100 (112, 124, 136, 148, 164, 176 Sc)>

Rpt Rnds 1-4 until you’ve finished 16 (18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28)” from underarm or 64 (72, 80, 88, 96, 104, 112) Rnds <160 (180, 200, 220, 240, 264, 284 Sc)>

Work Sc in all sts until you’ve finished 2” or 8 Rnds <160 (180, 200, 220, 240, 264, 284 Sc)>

Finish off, weave ends.

Sleeves:

Join yarn to 1^st of skipped 21 (24, 27, 30, 33, 36, 39) sts at “split for sleeves”

Ch 14 (16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26) for underarm, sl st to the other side of your skipped sts at “split for sleeves” to form a Round with an underarm opening, pull up loop slightly to work next st without chaining, place stitch marker in first st of the next Rnd

Rnd 1: Sc in each st around, including Ch sts <35 (40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65 Sc)>

Rnd 2: Sc dec, Sc in each st around <34 (39, 44, 49, 54, 59, 64 Sc)>

Rnds 3-5: Sc in each st around <34 (39, 44, 49, 54, 59, 64 Sc)>

Rpt Rnds 2-5until you’ve finished 16.5 (17, 17, 17.5, 17.5, 18, 18)” of sleeve or 70 (72, 72, 74, 74, 76, 76) Rnds <17 (22, 27, 31, 36, 41, 46 Sc)>

Finish off, weave in ends.

Graft underarm sts – with a long piece of spare yarn, whip stitch the underarm stitches together.

Fold over top 10” of yoke to fit off the shoulder. You may sew this in place if you so choose, or leave it unsewn. You’re done!

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 Crochet Audrey Tunic appeared first on Sewrella.

Try out my newest Free Crochet Pattern – The University Scarf! With easy stripes and bulky weight yarn, this is the perfect last-minute handmade gift idea you need for the holidays.

I’ll keep this short & sweet, but scroll down a bit if you want the full pattern & list of materials from JOANN.

JOANN COLLAB PROJECTS I LOVE (& you should too)

1. Crochet Lil Denim Cardi / 2. DIY Pom Pom Earrings / 3. Crochet Pucker Pullover Sweater

The Design

You know how there are those friends and family members that you just don’t know what to make for them? Or what to buy? What will they like, dangit?! I’ve got the answer for you – it’s the University Scarf. And guess what?! You’ve actually got plenty of time to make these before the winter holidays are over!

After the wild (albeit, unexpected) success of my Brooklyn Ridge Crochet Hat pattern (a super simple hat made from a rectangle) I knew I needed to create a scarf in a similar fashion. One simple stitch, simple stripes for a little flair, and warm, ribbed texture.

I teamed up with my friends at JOANN to bring you the most fool-proof gift idea for the holidays – girls & guys of all ages love this scarf, so just make sure you crochet lots of them!

Make it!

I made my scarf with Lion Brand Wool Ease Thick & Quick yarn from JOANN – and let me tell ya, there’s nothing like the squishy texture of this yarn! It’s an old stand by for a reason.

There are SO many gorgeous color combinations to choose from in this yarn, you could use a classic soft colors like Blossom, Charcoal, or Fig – the variegated yarns like Hudson’s Bay, Spice Market, and Fossil are favorites too!

If you make this scarf pattern for anyone attending university, try matching yarn choices to a school color – or carry out this idea for an Alumni. I can’t wait to see how yours comes out!

It’s also worth noting that I made my scarf in about 3 hour long episodes of TV. You’ll be able to crank these out in a jiffy!

TUTORIAL

• 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.
• Add this pattern to your Ravelry queue HERE.

To sum it up: A beginner textured scarf with easy, limitless customization. One stitch and a few stripes are all you need to make this quick accessory!

Materials:

–Lion Brand Wool Ease Thick & Quick yarn (Weight: 5/Bulky – 7oz, 247 yds) from JOANN

Main Color: Butterscotch – 2 skeins

Contrast Color: Fisherman – 1 skein

–Size M/N 9mm crochet hook

-Tapestry needle

Gauge:

10 sts x 6 rows in Hdc = 4″

Dimensions:

9” x 75” (before joining last row)

Abbreviations (US terms):

blo – back loop only

ch – chain

hdc – half double crochet

sc – single crochet

rpt – repeat

sl st – slip stitch

st(s) – stitch(es)

Skill Level:

Level 1 – beginner

Pattern Notes

-This scarf pattern as written is made to fit average adult women.

-This pattern can be altered to use worsted weight yarn or bulky weight yarn as long as you meet the rectangle measurements listed above.

-When working stripes, cut and tie on new yarn each time you change color to avoid carried yarn strands showing in the finished object (no border is worked in this pattern as written).

-Please read this pattern in its entirety before beginning work on your project.

Crochet University Scarf

Ch 24

Row 1: Hdc in 3rd Ch st from hook and each st across, Ch 2, t (22)

Row 2: BLO Hdc in each st across, regular Hdc in last st, Ch 2, t (22)

Rpt Row 2 until you’ve finished 112 Rows or 75″ – work striping therein as follows.

Striping:

*20 Rows MC

2 Rows CC

4 Rows MC

2 Rows CC

Rpt from * 3 more times

Last Joining Row:

*Continue working with CC yarn after last striping Row.

Holding last Row worked to foundation Ch of Row 1, taking care not to twist the looped scarf, sl st in each Hdc st across working through both pieces of fabric as pictured.

Finish off, weave all ends. Turn scarf inside out and wear looped once or twice, enjoy!

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 University Scarf – Free Crochet Pattern appeared first on Sewrella.

Sewrella’s Holiday Knit-a-long has ended and I’m so glad to show you my cropped version of the My First Holiday Knit Sweater!

Scroll on down to read about my pattern adjustments and get the link to the full original pattern that’s FREE here on the blog or read on for more details about this cute knitting project.

OTHER SWEATER PATTERNS I LOVE (& you should too)

1. Crochet Twist Swancho / 2. Crochet Everyday Cardigan / 3. Simple Knit Sweater

A Tale of Two Sweaters

I designed the original Holiday Knit Sweater with positive ease and a slouchy oversized fit. I loved that comfy, grandpa’s-tacky-christmas-sweater fit with more modern colorwork, and I was so excited about the design I turned the pattern into an event!

Over 700 people wound up joining us in the Knit-a-long Facebook Group (you can still join here to see all the threads of questions and video tutorial help, it’ll stay up forever!). We knit up a storm, many participants never having knit a stitch before! It was so wonderful to see so many helpful, kind, sweet people in this group and we all knit beautiful sweaters together.

I participated right along with the group by making a modified version of the sweater a second time. I loved the Millenial pink color of the yarn (more on that below) but I really enjoyed playing with the length and fit of the sweater. I’ve listed my few modifications below – they weren’t as dramatic as you’d think! Instead of sizing up from my usual shirt size as I did with the original Cranberry sample, I made my true size (medium) for a more fitted bodice. I added some extra ribbing and omitted several inches of stockinette in the body for a cropped length and in the sleeve for a shorter fit. That’s it!

If you’d like a PDF download of the full pattern with modifications all in one place, check out this inexpensive amended version!

The Yarn

I chose to use Lion Brand’s new Color Made Easy Yarn for this project and I’m happy to report – it was just the right choice! You’ll need a Category 5 bulky weight yarn for this project and those are a little harder to find than standard worsted weight or bulkier category 6 yarns.

I also love the color lineup in Color Made Easy. Lion Brand put together a kit just for this Knit-a-Long and there are 6 stunning color options available! I made my first sweater in the Pomegranate option and my second cropped sweater (pictured here) in the blushy pink color called Millenial.

Click Here to grab your kit from Lion Brand – it comes with a printed copy of the pattern as well as all the yarn you’ll need for your size! You’ll have some yarn leftover if you make the cropped adjustments I did, but you can make a couple of my Brooklyn Ridge Crochet Hat pattern with the excess!

PATTERN

• Get the AMENDED 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.
• Add this pattern to your Ravelry queue HERE.

Cropped Holiday Knit Sweater

CLICK HERE TO SEE THE ORIGINAL FREE PATTERN IN FULL

My modifications:

*Note: make all of the following modifications to the original free pattern (linked above) if you like, or pick and choose what you modify. For example, you could crop the length as I have but work the original pattern for long sleeves – it’s totally up to you! Isn’t making your own clothes neat??

—–

All ribbing (body, sleeves, and neckline): work 10 Rnds (instead of 8 Rnds)

Body: Knit in stockinette for half the number of inches/Rnds original pattern called for (in my case, half the medium measurements would be 6″ or 27 Rnds).

Sleeves: Maintain original pattern until stockinette portion: Reduce final sleeve measurement by 5″ or 23 Rnds (medium: knit until sleeve measures 10.5″ from rib)

Knit yoke and all other steps as written in the original pattern.

—–

Enjoy your stylish, cropped sweater!

If you’d like a PDF download of the full pattern with modifications all in one place, check out this inexpensive amended version!

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 The Cropped Holiday Knit Sweater appeared first on Sewrella.

Yay Christmas time!! We’re past Thanksgiving and it’s officially time to put up the tree if you haven’t already! If you don’t want to use the same old ornaments you use every year, or you just want a little extra crochet pizzazz happenin’, this is the post for you! I’m only featuring my top 10 favorite ornaments, but I have a collection of 25 here if you wanna peruse (pictured above). All of them are made from Lion Brand’s 24/7 Cotton yarn. I chose this sturdy yarn so that these gems will last you year after year!

I hope you find a sweet new ornament to love, or a new tradition to begin with your family this year! Happy Holidays y’all!

EASY GIFT PATTERNS TO MAKE THIS SEASON!

1. Crochet Avery Hat  / 2. Crochet Le Nuage Wrap  / 3. DIY Yarn Wall Hanging

PATTERNS

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

1. Crochet Santa Claus Ornament – This lil bearded fella has my heart! Ever since I can remember, my mom has brought out this flat, pillow-like Santa ragdoll every year for Christmas decoration. He sits on the couch and enjoys all of our holiday rituals right along with us. (check out my crochet recreation of him here!) So when I set out to make an ornament collection, a little Santa had to be included because of the special role of imagination and magic he brought to my home each season and to so many others too!
2. Crochet Christmas Cookies Ornament – I love me some cookies! My great grandmother used to have a magnet on her fridge that read, “A cookie in each hand is a balanced diet,” and I truly believe that’s where my cookie obsession subconsciously began. Also, every year my mom, sisters, and I would bake as many cookies as our stomachs could handle – all. December. long. It has since transitioned into a cookie swap party that we host just before Christmas with local friends and family. Plus, these tiny cookies just make me squeal they’re so cute!
3. Crochet Gingerbread House Ornament – Gingerbread house making was quite the art form in my house growing up. My dad and I would make gingerbread cookie sheets from scratch (!!!) and have a different theme each year. One year, we made a gingerbread church with stained glass windows made of oven baked Jolly Ranchers all melted together. Then we stuck all kinds of different candies on the outside, finished with a dusting of powdered sugar for snow. This is my best original style gingerbread house crochet replica! And yes, she has some design on the back too.
4. Crochet Bing Crosby Ornament – Christmas music, and Christmas music only for the month of December. There’s just something about music from 50+ years ago that I’m in love with. Maybe it’s the raw sound, or the scratchy feedback that came with old timey recording, but I just find the whole experience comforting – and Bing Crosby’s White Christmas makes me feel some kinda way. (I was really born in the wrong era.) Don’t get me wrong, I listened to my fair share of Mariah Carey and *NSYNC holiday hits like every other kid in the ’90s, but putting on a Christmas record just gives me those warm & fuzzy holiday feels.
5. Crochet Mini Stockings Ornament – Aren’t these mini stockings just adorable?! Honestly, I think it’s human nature to automatically love a miniature version of anything. So who better to gift these to than mini humans! I’m talking about all those nieces and nephews and cousins that you never seem to know what to get for… Fill these babies with some chocolate, and I promise those kiddos will be happy as clams.
6. Crochet Candy Cane Covers – We’re taking just plain old candy canes up a notch. I took dance lessons when I was younger, and this time of year after class, our teachers would hand out mini candy canes and I will forever love them for it. Make these cute and simple covers to adorn your tree with, or to just add a little spice to your candy cane gifting for teachers and friends alike!
7. Crochet Nutcracker Ornament – In addition to taking dance lessons, I also used to participate in my local Nutcracker Ballet for several years in a row! So not only did I become intimately familiar with the doll and story, we always had a few standing tall in my house. My dad even brought one home to my sister and I all the way from Germany! Can you tell my family takes Christmas very seriously?
8. Crochet Let It SnowFlake Ornament – Never have I ever had a white, snowy Christmas. Dang you, Florida sun! But it’s always been something I yearn for. And I always liked cutting out paper snowflake designs and hanging them up everywhere. Besides, who doesn’t love a pretty snowflake ornament?! I don’t think I’ve ever seen a tree without at least one.
9. Crochet Christmas Lights Ornament – When I was younger, my family used to drive around all over town Christmas Eve night and look at all the beautifully lit houses. Sometimes (if the roads were empty), we would even stop the car to gawk at another house’s dedication and commitment to Christmas decorations. You literally had to stop to admire and find each element in their yard. So if you are one of those houses who truly go all out, I salute you. 
10. Crochet Hot Chocolate Ornament – Hot cocoa is my favorite holiday beverage, hands down. There’s just nothing like snuggling up on the couch by the fire with your fuzzy socks on, holiday movie starting, and a mug of hot cocoa with marshmallows in hand. And probably a plate of freshly baked cookies on the table next to you. Because what is a Christmas movie without snacks?
    

I hope you found an ornament pattern you’d love to make this holiday season! 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 Top 10 Crochet Holiday Ornaments appeared first on Sewrella.

If you’re in search of an easy, 15 minute craft that’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser – check out my Easy DIY Yarn Wall Hanging!

I’ll keep this short & sweet, but scroll down a bit if you want the full tutorial & list of materials from JOANN.

JOANN COLLAB PROJECTS I LOVE (& you should too)

1. Crochet Lil Denim Cardi / 2. DIY Pom Pom Earrings / 3. Crochet Pucker Pullover Sweater

The Design

I was initially inspired by a lot of intricate wall hangings I’ve seen all over Pinterest and Instagram over the last few years – but I don’t have time in my life to learn complex macrame knots (because toddlers). I also have tons of scrap yarn hanging around from various projects & promotions & I wanted to do something fun with them!

I love the look of yarn that’s a bit scrunched from sitting in the center of a ball of yarn and although this crinkled look isn’t great for knitting and crocheting – I think it gives a nice bounce and life to a simple knotted wall hanging.

I wanted to add a simple, sort of rustic design element to the hanging without creating a lot of fuss. When I was browsing JOANN looking for wooden dowels, I saw this inexpensive little pack of wooden beads, perfect! I strung them on another scrap piece of yarn and tied it to the ends of the hanging. It gives the perfect bohemian finish, don’t ya think?

Make it!

I made a mini wall hanging (mostly so that you could see everything nicely on my little photography table) but I have lots of ideas on how to run with this concept to suit your needs:

• huge piece for above-the-couch decor
• several mini pieces in an ombré style hung on the wall in a row
• craft fair market signage/decor
• chalk paint & distress your wood elements for a shabby chic look
• nursery wall art
• holiday colors to match your tree
• tiny miniature versions using popsicle sticks for ornaments

You could also string your wooden beads in a long strand among the yarn, instead of draping in front. Get creative and have fun!

This is a great project to make with kids, especially around the holidays – just use red and white yarn to make a candy cane style wall hanging! You could even paint your wooden beads with metallic craft paint for a little shimmer.

The possibilities really are endless and I can’t wait to see how you customize it!

TUTORIAL

• PIN this project to your Pinterest boards for later HERE.
• Grab the Ultimate Pattern Bundle that includes 150+ patterns just like this one on sale for $20 today HERE.

Materials:

-Any scrap yarn (I used Lion Brand Coboo from JOANN)

-12″ Wooden craft dowels

–Sharp scissors (these are my favorites for cutting fringe!)

-25mm Wooden Beads

–yarn needle

Difficulty Level:

Level 1 – Beginner

Easy DIY Yarn Wall Hanging

Measure your chosen wooden dowel, mine was 12″. All strands of yarn should be about double your dowel length or a little longer.

Cut each color of yarn to 24″ or your decided measurement. Pull from the center of your skein of yarn to get a crinkled look.

I cut 24 pieces of each color of yarn I am using.

Separate 16 strands of your first color, fold in half. Place loop under dowel as pictured.

Pull tails through loop.

Tighten knot.

Repeat with 16 strands of each color leaving space between (left pictured above).

To get a faded effect, hold 8 strands of each color (above, denim and blush) together and tie onto dowel in the same manner between your solid knots of denim and blush.

Repeat between all colors.

Thread an 18″ piece of yarn on a yarn needle and string wooden beads onto it.

Tie ends of beaded yarn onto the ends of your dowel.

Tie an additional piece of yarn onto the ends of your dowel beyond your beaded yarn to hang on the wall.

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