Happy New Years Eve! I am celebrating by rounding up my top 10 posts of 2012. It comes to no surprise that 9 out of 10 are some of my best free crochet patterns 🙂 Thank you to each and every one of you for all your support this past year. I have lots of new craft projects, crock pot recipes and many crochet patterns coming in 2013! So stick around and check back often! Have a safe and happy New Year!
Search Results for: crochet hat
Fireman, Fire Dog, Fire Truck Halloween Costume
I am determined to put my kids in coordinating Halloween costumes until the time comes when they refuse to do such things.
Last year they were Batman and Robin 🙂
This year, big brother said he wanted to be a fireman for Halloween so that immediately meant that little brother was to be his fire dog 🙂 Conveniently we already had a fireman outfit in our dress up bin so I only needed to purchase a dalmation costume for my little guy. I toyed with thought of DIYing it with a crochet hat and white shirt with felt spots….but then I saw a super cute little plush dalmatian puppy costume at Pottery Barn Kids and I couldn’t resist!
Now we needed a fire truck! Their two-seater wagon was the perfect canvas. I used a large cardboard box and cut it up into two truck shapes for either side. I used scrap pieces to make the ladder. Big brother helped paint everything. I used chalkboard contact paper for the black hose and printed out a fire department logo to make it official 🙂
Monster Party
Monster Birthday Invite
You know when you have a great idea in your head for months and then when you finally do it, things keep going wrong and you don’t end up with the fabulous project you had imagined? Well, that is what happened with these invites for my boys birthday party.
And then when I came across these adorable Monster Lollipop’s, I knew that I wanted to use this idea and make monster-themed party invitations.
But as I began making the invites, things quickly started to go wrong. I want to touch on some of the problems I had so we can learn from my mistakes.
New Blog Design!
Welcome to the new and improved Repeat Crafter Me! I am so excited to have a new blog design created by the very talented Lindsay of Happy Potamus Designs. Lindsay was so easy to work with, her prices were extremely reasonable and she works quickly! As a fellow graphic designer, I know how exhausting and time consuming it can be to go back and forth with a client. Lindsay always responded promptly and happily and was there to answer all my questions or make any changes I asked for. If you are looking for a major blog re-design or even just a small change, she has many packages to choose from or pick what you need from her A La Carte menu!
I want to point out a couple of really great things about my new design.
First of all, notice the beautiful navigation bar at the top of the page. There are separate tabs for “Crafting, Crocheting, and Crockpoting.”
You can now click on each one to see an organized list of my posts related to either Crafts, Crochet projects, and Crock Pot Recipes. There are sub-categories under each so for instance if you are looking for a dessert you can make in the crock pot, you can easily find one!
Second, you may notice I have social icons that link to my Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Etsy sites!
I would love for you to follow me on my social networking sites and keep in touch on a daily basis!
Third, I am so excited to tell you that my Etsy shop is now open!!
I will be SLOWLY adding new item to the shop this week but you can see a couple crochet hats that are now available and ready to ship. I have been talking about getting my Etsy shop up and running for a long time so I am more than pleased to be able to say that it is finally here!
Lastly, take a minute to browse some other great features in my sidebar such as the “Popular Posts” section. If you are new to my blog, this is a great place to see a list of my posts that have received the most attention. If you are a fellow blogger and like my blog, feel free to grab my button and display it on your site. Let me know you have done so and I will be sure to return the favor! I will also be welcoming sponsorships soon. I am working out pricing and benefits so if you are interested in advertising on my blog feel fee to contact me at [email protected].
Leave me a comment and let me know what you think of the new design!
Under the Sea CAL
It’s time to deep dive into another year long crochet project! I am thrilled to announce that my 2024 crochet-along is an Under the Sea theme! Over the next 12 months I will be crocheting an adorable ocean creature that will fit on a crochet square that looks like a water bubble. At the end of the year I will stitch them all together to make a blanket!
I am doing something a little different than the last two years of crochet-along blankets.
This time you can see all of the cute aquatic animals and characters in the picture above! Right now they are just fun clip art images but I will transform them into cute crochet sea creatures appliqués.
You can get started right now and make all 12 of your water bubble squares!
Get the Crochet Circle in a Square Water Bubble Pattern HERE
These are simple 12 x 12 circle in a square crochet squares that use double crochet stitches.
I am using Red Heart Super Saver Yarn in colors Light Blue fore the circle bubble and Red Heart Super Saver in color Blue for the background edges.
Shop these colors HERE on Yarnspirations.com. You will need at least 4 skeins of Blue and 2 skeins of Light Blue.
You might want to make more than 12 squares because I will have 3 bonus patterns: Walrus, Stingray, and an Orca pattern that can also be used as Dolphin by switching up the colors.
Pick your favorite sea characters of the bunch or make all 15! Your finished blanket will be at least 40 x 50 inches if you make a 12 square blanket and at least 40 x 60 if you make a 15 square blanket.
I have not designed all of these aquatic animals yet so the colors you see in the clip art for each creature are just place holders. The designs when crocheted will probably look a bit different but will still be super cute and made of simple stitches.
This page will serve as the landing page for the 2024 Under the Sea Crochet-Along! You can check back here each month for a link to the newest pattern and video tutorial.
UNDER THE SEA CROCHET HOOKS! Remember Jennifer from Day by Day Clay and Crochet? I collaborated with her on the 2022 Gnome Project where she made Gnome crochet hooks and I made a Gnome C2C blanket. This year she has offered to make matching Under the Sea Polymer Clay Hooks! She will be making several designs throughout the year (not monthly) and they will be available for purchase in her Day by Day Clay and Crochet Facebook Group.
*I am not affiliated with the Day by Day Clay & Crochet company or her sales. I am just supporting another talented designer by sharing her work and loved that she wanted to match this Under the Sea CAL!
SQUARE 1 – GET THE CROCHET STARFISH HERE
SQUARE 2 – GET THE CROCHET SEAHORSE HERE
SQUARE 3 – GET THE CROCHET JELLYFISH HERE
I hope you enjoy swimming and stitching this Under the Sea blanket with me!
Please use the hashtag #UndertheSeaCAL when posting on social media.
This is my 3rd year of hosting a month to month Blanket CAL!
Check out the 2022 Gnome Project CAL HERE
Check out the 2023 Animal Square CAL HERE
Claw Machine Filled with Yarn!
We got something fun for the crochet room! It’s a MINI CLAW MACHINE! Actually, it’s a pretty decent size standing at 60 inches tall, 12 inches wide, and 18 inches deep.
The tiny balls of Caron Little Crafties yarn fit perfectly! But I will be making small amigurumi animals as prizes as well. Shop Caron Little Crafties HERE on Yarnspirations.com.
We currently have it set to free play and on “easy mode” (yes there are different settings that make it easy or hard for the claw to grab). The yarn is a fun gift for anyone that comes over to visit and craft/crochet with us!
Thanks to Chris at The Crabby Claw Vending Co for helping us get this set up!
He is local to me in Chandler, Arizona but you can purchase a claw machine and have it shipped if you live in the lower 48 states! He typically always has a sale going on.
You can email Christ at [email protected] for more details.
>>>> Check out the Crabby Claw Vending Co WEBSITE HERE <<<<
Zoe and I are having so much fun with this and can’t wait to fill it with more fun items. It’s such a happy addition to my crochet/craft room!
2024 is going to be NEW YEAR of NEW PATTERNS! Let’s stay connected!
Subscribe to my NEWSLETTER for free patterns straight to your inbox!
Repeat Crafter Me Facebook
Repeat Crafter Me Instagram
Repeat Crafter Me Pinterest
Repeat Crafter Me YOUTUBE
Red Heart All In One Granny Square Yarn
NEW YARN! I am so excited to show you this brand new yarn called Red Heart All in One Granny Square! Keep on stitchin’ with no color switchin’ because the yarn is made with the exact color changes needed to make a perfect granny square!
Shop the new yarn HERE on Yarnspirations.com
It’s absolutely genius. You can make 14 granny squares with just one ball! Each square will have 5 colors changes but only two ends to weave in. Perfect for on-the-go!
The pattern for the granny square is on the backside of the label of each yarn. I personally got the chance to test out this yarn and IT WORKS!
Here are some tips:
1. You will need to start with the middle color in the picture of the granny square on the label. The length of the colors is pre-set for each round so it has to go in the order of the granny square pictured. If you pull from the center and the color isn’t your starting color, you need to clip the yarn until it is the correct color. Use any extra yarn you snip off for stitching the squares together.
2. I ended up using a size H (5mm) crochet hook and kept my tension pretty tight. Feel free to use a hook that’s a size bigger or smaller to help with the gauge.
3. I turned after each round so I was starting in the chain space with a new color. The squares are reversible!
I made a quick video on how I crocheted these squares to help with any confusion:
So many shades to choose from! Shop all the colors HERE on Yarnspirations.com.
There are a plethora of granny square projects you can use this yarn with.
>>> Explore granny square crochet patterns HERE <<<
Since I am feeling festive, I made quick and easy granny square tree ornaments! Each square can easily be folded into the shape of a tree. Add a trunk + a star button at the top and you have a cute Christmas accessory!
GET THE CROCHET GRANNY SQUARE TREE ORNAMENT TUTORIAL HERE
FOLLOW ME for more FREE Crochet!
Repeat Crafter Me Facebook
Repeat Crafter Me Instagram
Repeat Crafter Me Pinterest
Repeat Crafter Me YOUTUBE
Subscribe to my NEWSLETTER for free patterns straight to your inbox!
Lesson 2: Stitch in Season CAL
Our Stitch in Season Crochet-Along continues! Now that we’ve made all of our squares and woven in our ends, I will be teaching us how to create a single crochet border in white for each of our squares and bringing them together using a slip stitch join.
Haven’t heard of the Stitch in Season Crochet-Along? Let me tell you all about it.
It’s never too late to join in on the fun!
I am hosting a new stitch along over at Yarnspirations.com in collaboration with Red Heart Yarn! It’s called the Stitch in Season CAL and it features two different motif blocks: A Snowflake and a Spring Flower. The best part is this blanket goes from Winter to Spring depending on which shade of yarn you choose. One Pattern = Two blanket designs!
You can >>>> SIGN UP HERE <<<< to get all the patterns and tutorials directly into your email inbox!
GET WEEK 1 Pattern & Tutorial HERE
GET WEEK 2 Pattern & Tutorial HERE
I give instructions to make the full 12 x12 square but you could use the first part of the snowflake as an ornament or coaster! Same with the flower!
You can shop the yarn in a kit and get all the details when you SIGN UP for the free Stitch in Season Blanket Crochet Along HERE.
The Snowflake uses Red Heart Super Saver Jumbo in color Macaw
The Spring Flower uses Red Heart Super Saver Jumbo in color Retro Stripe
Note: Retro Stripe Jumbo just sold out! While they are restocking, you can replace the jumbo with regular skeins of Retro Stripe.
Shop these colors HERE on Yarnspirations.com.
Use the hashtag #StitchinSeasonCAL23 when posting your versions on social media!
Lesson 1: Stitch in Season CAL
Let’s get started! This week we’ll begin our motif with a magic ring and build outward in the round using a series of simple stitches.
Haven’t heard of the Stitch in Season Crochet-Along? Let me tell you all about it.
It’s never too late to join in on the fun!
I am hosting a new stitch along over at Yarnspirations.com in collaboration with Red Heart Yarn! It’s called the Stitch in Season CAL and it features two different motif blocks: A Snowflake and a Spring Flower. The best part is this blanket goes from Winter to Spring depending on which shade of yarn you choose. One Pattern = Two blanket designs!
You can >>>> SIGN UP HERE <<<< to get all the patterns and tutorials directly into your email inbox!
If you’re working up the Snowflake version, start with the White shade and finish off your square with Macaw. If you’re opting for the Flower version, build your center with Retro Stripe. You’ll begin making your petals in the White shade on Round 3
Note: The first half of this tutorial video focuses on the Snowflake version. For instructions on the Flower, fast forward to the second half.
I give instructions to make the full 12 x12 square but you could use the first part of the snowflake as an ornament or coaster!
Go directly to the LESSON 1 PATTERN HERE
Use the hashtag #StitchinSeasonCAL23 when posting your versions on social media!
Red Heart Super Saver Mini Yarn and Patterns
Have you seen the new miniature skeins of Red Heart Super Saver Yarn?! They are absolutely adorable and come in a variety pack of 12 colors! They are currently being sold in a Crochet Kit, Craft Kit, Super Stitchers Kit, and a Knit Kit and there are a plethora of patterns that coordinate with these kits. Perfect for your holiday crafting, crocheting, and a fabulous gift for any craft enthusiast!
Get the Red Heart Super Saver Kits HERE on Yarnspirations.com
The yarn is still a worsted weight just like a normal skein of Red Heart Super Saver. These mini versions give you the ability to try out a variety of colors and projects without purchases 12 larger more expensive balls of yarn.
I love the pattern for these Mini Crochet Amigurumi Charms! You can make the lemon, panda, and frog or make them into Christmas Characters! I changed up the colors and made a snowman, Christmas tree, and gingerbread head!
Here are the patterns for the embellishments:
Snowman Nose: chain 6, slip stitch in second chain from hook, SC in next, HDC in next 2, DC in last.
Snowman Hat: same pattern as panda ear but add a round at the end with 2 SC in each stitch.
Gingerbread Cheeks: Magic Ring, chain 1 and make 6 SC in ring, join, fasten off.
Tree Trunk: You can follow the pattern for the lemon leaf or just SC in a few rounds before closing the end up.
Tree Lights can be purchased HERE from Amazon and I used a couple dabs of hot glue to secure them.
So many ways to customize these patterns! After I made the gingerbread head, it made me think that a football keychain would be cute for the season!
Let me know what you make with these mini skeins. Tag me @RepeatCrafterMe and @Yarnspirations on social media!
FOLLOW ME for more FREE Crochet!
Repeat Crafter Me Facebook
Repeat Crafter Me Instagram
Repeat Crafter Me Pinterest
Repeat Crafter Me YOUTUBE
Subscribe to my NEWSLETTER for free patterns straight to your inbox!
Here are two books you must add to your holiday wish list!
Crochet Cute Critters and Crochet Cute Forest Friends is a dynamic duo of adorable amigurumi!
Adding Sleeves and Length to the Retro Stripe Hexagon Cardigan
It’s officially Fall! I thought it would be the perfect time to add some sleeves and length to my Red Heart Retro Stripe Hexagon Cardigan. Now its comfy and cozy for the seasons ahead!
Just to refresh your memory, here is the before and after:
It’s really easy to add as much length as you need to both the sleeves and the bottom of this cardigan. But first you will need to make the basic Hexi Cardi! You can now find the pattern in a downloadable PDF courtesy of my friends at Yarnspirations! This means the pattern can be printed or saved to your computer as a simple two page document without advertisements and comments. Just an easier way for you to have this project in your pattern library! Plus they included more sizing options (Small – 2XL) and a few helpful images to make it clear and concise.
GET THE FREE HEXAGON CARDIGAN PATTERN HERE
My original crochet hexagon cardigan post is still available as well! See it HERE
Now let’s add some length!
Let’s start with the sleeves.
Join in a new skein of Red Heart Retro Stripe Yarn anywhere along the edge of the sleeve.
DC in each stitch around, join, chain 2. (exact stitch count doesn’t matter)
Continue to DC in rounds until it is the length desired. I personally added 6 rows (but my arms are short!) Do not fasten off. Now you will start on the ribbed cuffs.
Chain 13, SC in second chain from hook and the rest of the way down chain,
slip stitch in 4 of the stitches on last row sleeve, turn,
SC in back loops of the 12 SC’s from cuff, chain 1, turn
SC in back loops of the SC stitches until you get back to the sleeve,
slip stitch in 4 stitches, turn
Repeat until end! If you don’t have 4 stitches slip stitch in at the end, that is ok.
Stitch the edges of the cuff together using your loose end and tapestry needle.
Now let’s add some length to the bottom of our cardigan!
Join in Retro Stripe yarn at the bottom edge corner of your cardigan.
DC in each stitch along bottom, when you get to the corner edge on the other side, chain 2, turn
Continue to DC in rows until it is the length desired. I added 13 rows to the bottom of mine!
Do not fasten off.
Continue to DC along the inside edges and around the neck and back down.
Fasten off and weave in ends.
That’s it! Super easy and customizable for any size!
If you need to get a few more balls of Red Heart Retro Stripe yarn, it is now available in JUMBO! This means that you get twice the amount of yarn in one skein!
SHOP RED HEART RETRO STRIPE YARN HERE
I would love to see this cardigan in other colors too. So many possibilities!
Be sure to tag me on social media using #RepeatCrafterMe and #Yarnspo
Download 2 Donate Charity Stitchers
Hooray! Today is my Birthday! And I can’t think of a better way to celebrate than by taking part in a wonderful charity project alongside my friends at Yarnspirations.com.
No need to donate any money! This charity event is incredibly easy to participate in.
From June 14 – July 23, 2023 download any FREE patterns from the Download2Donate ROUND-UP featuring 100+ charity crochet and knit patterns. Yarnspirations will be donating $5 for every 100 pattern downloads up to $20k!
Yep! It’s that easy! You’ve already been downloading free patterns like Quakers the Duck and Tuna the Cat/Bones the Dog. So if you see something else you like (inspiration below) feel free to download a few more patterns to add to your library from THIS CHARITY PATTERN ROUND-UP. Your clicks will help a wonderful charity.
It is super important that your pattern downloads count in this campaign. Please be sure and use the link below when selecting free patterns to click on.
>>>> CHARITY PATTERN ROUND-UP <<<<
Click the link above and download any of the FREE patterns!
Every 100 downloads = $5 donated by Yarnspirations to the charity below.
The money donated by Yarnspirations will be supporting Dress for Success. Dress for Success is a global not-for-profit organization that empowers women to achieve economic independence by providing a network of support, professional attire and the development tools to help women thrive in work and in life.
Will you help us with Download2Donate? Thank you for supporting a good cause on my birthday!
>>>> CHARITY PATTERN ROUND-UP <<<<
Click the link above and download any of the FREE patterns! Every 100 downloads = $5 donated by Yarnspirations to charity.
Here a few patterns in the Charity Round-Up I think you might like!
Thank you for helping me celebrate my birthday by giving back!
Repeat Crafter Me Patterns on Yarnspirations.com
Did you know that in addition to posting FREE crochet patterns right here on RepeatCrafterMe.com, I also design FREE crochet patterns for Yarnspirations?! Yep! You can find well over 30 patterns of mine RIGHT HERE on Yarnspirations.com! I have been a proud Stitch Ambassador for them for many years and I get the opportunity to use many of their yarns to create new projects for my website and theirs each month. It’s a fun job and they all are free of charge to you! Enjoy them all!
Currently there is a round up of several of my designs on their website but it’s a work in progress so I am listing several more links below to make it easy for you to click, download, and save these PDF patterns, Again, they are all FREE! No commitment. We want you to be excited about these yarns and crochet patterns as much as we are!
I will be sure to continue to add to this post as more of my patterns become available on Yarnspirations.com.
GET THE FREE PATTERNS SHOWN BELOW HERE (with a few more links at the end of the post)
Squish-A-Saurus
Daisy C2C Blanket
Giant Snowman
Owl Pillow
Daisy Dress
Ombre Socks
Pumpkin Patch Blanket
Cow Stuffie
Pencil Pouch
Snowy Owl Hat
Mystery Boxes of Yarn
I’ve been so curious about these Mystery Boxes of yarn! They are being sold on Yarnspirations.com and I’ve heard they are selling out extremely fast. From what I know, some mystery boxes contain 8 skeins of quality yarn, some have 12 skeins, and others like the Caron Simply Soft box have 18 skeins! Assortment varies by the box and prices reflect the type of yarn and how much yarn you get in each box. My crochet buddies over at The Crochet Crowd and Daisy Farm Crafts have curated colors for a few of the boxes so I know those are going to be great and may sell out within hours!
Many of these boxes have limited quantities and are only available until supplies last.
I went ahead and personally purchased the Red Heart Mystery Box. I will be sure to report back when my box arrives! I can’t wait to see what’s inside!
Prices are in USD. I am not sure if they are being shipped beyond US and Canada, but I will try to find out more information soon!
Here is the break down of each box available:
Red Heart Mystery Box – Price $29.99
One mystery box contains 8 to 9 skeins of quality Red Heart yarns in the same gauge. Assortment varies by the box. It is not guaranteed each box will contain a different assortment when ordering multiple boxes.
Features:
- Content: Mixed Red Heart Yarns
- Box Size: 8 to 9 Skeins of quality yarn
- Retail Value: Up to $70 USD
- Gauge: See product name
- Color: Assorted
- May receive: Red Heart Soft, Red Heart With Love, Red Heart Hygge Charm, Red Heart Scrubby Cotton, Red Heart Roll With It, Red Heart Unforgettable
Bernat Mystery Box curated by The Crochet Crowd – Price $29.99
Build up a stash fast with soft and versatile Bernat worsted weight yarns. An assortment that’s perfect for any project.
Features:
- Box Size: 12 Skeins of assorted Bernat yarns: Bernat Super Value Solids, Bernat Super Value Stripes, Bernat Super Value Variegates, Bernat Premium
- Content: 100% Acrylic
- Ball Size: Assorted
- Care: Machine wash and dry
- Gauge: #4 Worsted (Medium)
- Color: Assorted
Caron Simply Soft Box curated by Daisy Farm Crafts – Price $49.99 (18 skeins!!)
Daisy Farm Crafts have bundled some incredibly soft surprises! This mystery box contains a beautifully curated variety of Caron Simply Soft yarns.
Features:
- Box Size: 18 Skeins of Caron Simply Soft, 3 of each shade
- Color: White, Soft Pink, Victorian Rose, Light Country Peach, Persimmon, Gold
- Content: 100% Acrylic
- Ball Size: 170 g / 6 oz, 288 meters / 315 yards
- Care: Machine washable and dryable
- Gauge: #4 Worsted (Medium)
Patons Canadiana Box curated by Daisy Farm Crafts – Price $44.99
Daisy Farm Crafts have selected the perfect shades of Patons Canadiana. This stash is versatile for any project, in shades you’re sure to love!
Features:
- Box Size: 18 Skeins of Patons Canadiana, 3 of each shade
- Color: Winter White, Medium Gray Mix, Pale Gray Mix, Fools Gold, Medium Teal, Teal Heather
- Content: 100% Acrylic
- Ball Size – Solids: 100 g / 3.5 oz, 187 m / 205 yds
- Care: Machine washable and dryable
- Gauge: #4 Worsted (Medium)
Caron Cakes Mystery Box – Price $43.99
Select from a variety of Caron Cakes and get mysterious shades. A surprise inside just waiting to be stitched with! Assortment varies by the box. It is not guaranteed each box will contain a different assortment when ordering multiple boxes.
Features:
Assortment of Anniversary Cakes, Baby Cakes, Caron Cakes, and/or Cotton Cakes
Bernat Blanket Mystery Box – Price $59.99
A mysterious box of 8 balls of Bernat Blanket in the same shade. Get ready to stitch a blanket with this big box full of surprises!
Features:
- 8 Skeins of Bernat Blanket 300g
- Color: Mystery
- Content: 100% Polyester
- Ball Size: 300 g / 10.5 oz, 201 m / 220 yds
- Care: Machine Wash and dry
- Gauge: #6 Super Bulky
Yarnspirations New Arrivals Mystery Box – Price $49.99
A box full of new yarns you’ve got to get your hooks and needles ready for!
Enjoy variety of gauges and textures with this sampler mystery box. Get ready for fresh and new yarns to add to your stash.
Mystery Bag (Currently Sold Out) – Price $7.50
One Mystery Bag contains 1 lb of yarn in the same gauge and color. Bags are picked at random, though
Features:
- Content: Mixed Yarn – Mill Ends
- Bag Size: Total combined weight: 1 lb/16 oz/454 g
- Care: Machine wash and dry
- Gauge: Assorted
- Color: Assorted
These are big boxes full of surprises and I can’t wait to show you what I receive in mine!
Animal Square CAL
Welcome to my new Crochet-Along for 2023! So many of you enjoyed the C2C Gnome CAL last year that I’ve had many requests for a new monthly project. This year will be all about Animal Squares!! These are simple crochet squares that are embellished with adorable animal faces! These squares work up quickly and won’t take you more than an hour or two. This project is extremely beginner friendly and will be less pressure (for me and you) so no need to rush or set aside multiple days in your busy schedule. You can start these anytime!
The first square is already done! It’s an adorable Polar Bear Square. YOU CAN FIND THE PATTERN + VIDEO TUTORIAL FOR THE POLAR BEAR SQUARE HERE.
Our second square is a horse! Get the HORSE CROCHET SQUARE HERE!
The third square for the month of March is this lovely LION! Get the Pattern HERE.
The fourth square for the month of April is this sweet little Lamb! Get the Pattern HERE.
The fifth square for the month of May is this friendly FROG! Get the Pattern HERE.
The sixth square for the month of June is the HIPPOPOTAMUS!
The seventh square for the month of July is a Pig!
The eighth square for the month of August is a Koala!
The ninth square for the month of September is a Fox!
The tenth square for the month of October is an Owl!
The eleventh square for the month of November is a Penguin!
The twelfth square for the month of December is a Deer/Reindeer
Note: CAL stands for Crochet-A-Long (typically written crochet-along or just abbreviated to CAL)
How this CAL works:
Each month (January through December of 2023) I will post a new Crochet Animal Square. These won’t necessarily be holiday themed but many of them will be seasonal (for instance, the polar bear represents winter and has a cute little blue scarf on). A few animals are random because I like the colors and it fits with the overall design 🙂 At the end of the year, I will be stitching these all together to make a blanket! But they could also be turned into a pillow(s), a scarf, or any other creative way you’d like to use them.
Unlike last year, I won’t have these ready on the 1st of the month, but I do promise to have the patterns available within the first 15 days of each month. I will also have video tutorials to accompany each pattern where I walk you through each square. The videos will be available on my Repeat Crafter Me YOUTUBE Channel! Be sure to subscribe HERE.
Embellish to your liking! Don’t feel like you have to add all of the animal elements I provide to each square. For instance, maybe you want to leave off the scarf on the polar bear square. Or skip making the toe pads on the paws. There will be other little extra designs like that throughout the year. But also feel free to add your own flair to each square! I encourage you to make these as fun and festive as you want.
The Yarn:
I am using colors from the Red Heart Super Saver line! This is my go-to yarn because it has so many different coordinating shades. It’s a worsted weight acrylic yarn that holds up and is readily available online and in most local craft stores. It doesn’t take much yarn to make these squares. Less than half a skein and some of the colors will repeat throughout. Don’t feel like you need to purchase new yarn, feel free to use what you have in your stash! But if you do purchase some yarn, you can browse the colors of Red Heart Yarn HERE on Yarnspirations.com.
The Backside of the Squares:
The backside of your squares will be messy. But we will cover this up and make them look finished and nice. One option is to make two of each square and stitch them together with the backs facing each other. Another option is to stitch on a fleece backing to the banket in the end. I have done this before with my Reindeer Blanket (SEE IT HERE). Have another idea on how to hide the backside and all those woven ends? Let me know in the comments!
Sizing:
Each square is approximately 7×7 so the finished blanket will be more of a lap size or baby blanket size. There will be 3 squares across and 4 squares down. I plan on thick borders! It’s going to be so cute!
Share your Square!
Be sure to share your finished squares on social media using #AnimalSquareCAL and by tagging @RepeatCrafterMe.
Alternate Animal Designs:
I don’t have plans to make more than one square for each month. I am trying to keep this project simple and manageable 🙂 BUT if all goes well, I will consider extending the project into next year and providing more squares!
If you missed the corner-to-corner crochet Gnome CAL last year, no worries! The patterns are still free right here on RepeatCrafterMe.com.
I’m not trying to give too much away but I am so excited about this project and have all the animals already sketched out! I use clip art and cartoon images to design most of my cute crochet projects like this one. I have the remaining months blurred out so there is some element of surprise but I’m sure you can already guess a few of them 🙂
Happy Crocheting!
FOLLOW ME for more FREE Crochet!
Repeat Crafter Me Facebook
Repeat Crafter Me Instagram
Repeat Crafter Me Pinterest
Repeat Crafter Me YOUTUBE
Subscribe to my NEWSLETTER for free patterns straight to your inbox!
Gnome Pom-Poms
We couldn’t finish our 2022 gnome project without a little razzle dazzle! Instead of putting basic pom-poms on the 4 corners of the blanket, I made GNOME Pom-Poms! A fun and easy twist to really make this blanket extra special. And if you aren’t making the gnome blanket, you can absolutely use these adorable gnome pom-poms as ornaments, gift toppers, garland, and more!
You can find the Gnome Blanket Pattern HERE
I made a video tutorial but will also post the written pattern below
Pom-Pom:
First create a fluffy pom-pom using the Large Clover Pom-Pom Maker and Red Heart Super Saver yarn in white. Leave the long strands you tie your pom-pom with hanging out. Don’t trim.
Gnome Hat:
Magic Ring, chain 1 and make 4 SC in ring, join, chain 1
Round 2: 2 SC in first stitch, SC in next, repeat around, join, chain 1 (6 SC)
Round 3: SC in each stitch around, join, chain 1 (6 SC)
Round 4: 2 SC in first, SC in next 2, repeat around, join, chain 1 (8 SC)
Round 5: 2 SC in first, SC in next 3, repeat around, join, chain 1 (10 SC)
Round 6: 2 SC in first, SC in next 4, repeat around, join, chain 1 (12 SC)
Round 7: 2 SC in first, SC in next 5, repeat around, join, chain 1 (14 SC)
Round 8: 2 SC in first, SC in next 6, repeat around, join, chain 1 (16 SC)
Round 9 2 SC in first, SC in next 7, repeat around, join, chain 1 (18 SC)
Round 10: SC in each stitch around, join, fasten off, weave in ends. (18 SC)
Gnome Nose:
Magic Ring, chain 2 and make 2 HDC + 2 SC + 2 HDC + 2 SC in ring, pull tight and join to first HDC, fasten off leave long tail.
Assembling your pom-pom gnome:
with tapestry needle, weave your long strands from tying your pom-pom up through the top of the hat and weave or tie so the hat is secure. You can now use the strands that are sticking out the top of the hat for a loop to hang as an ornament or for whatever you tie your gnome to.
stitch the nose onto the bottom loops of the hat and through the middle of the pom-pom so it is secure.
FOLLOW ME for more FREE Crochet!
Repeat Crafter Me Facebook
Repeat Crafter Me Instagram
Repeat Crafter Me Pinterest
Repeat Crafter Me YOUTUBE
Cochet C2C Bookcase Blanket
If you missed my LIVE Lunch & Learn over at the Yarnspirations Facebook page, don’t worry you can watch the replay HERE! I demonstrated a portion of the Caron Crochet Corner-to-Corner Bookcase Blanket which is a new pattern that you can download for free on Yarnspirations.com. Perfect for book lovers and also a fun back-to-school project! I took the succulent cactus portion and made it into a small 11 x 11 pixel graph as an easy example of how to approach a corner-to-corner crochet project. I think this cute area of the blanket would make a fun mini pillow so I am posting this little graph below but be sure to head over to Yarnspirations.com to download the full blanket pattern!
Caron Bookcase Blanket Pattern and Graph
In my example, I am using Red Heart Super Saver Yarn in colors Soft White, Light Sage, and Carrot! Such a pretty combo! The pattern suggest using Caron Colorama O’Go which is a great choice for the bigger blanket because you can get 5 colors all in one O’Go and they are very easy to separate.
Head over to the Yarnspirations Facebook Page to see my 30 minute Lunch & Learn demonstration!
Thanks to Yarnspirations for having me as a Lunch & Learn guest today!
2022 Gnome Project
It’s the year of the gnomes! This post will be a landing page for the monthly gnomes with links that take you to each individual tutorial. I will continue to update this post until the end of the year. It’s one spot for you to be able to easily find all the gnomes! Not sure what this gnome project is all about? Let me explain! Jennifer from Day by Day Clay and Crochet and I have teamed up for a HUGE year-long project! Each month Jen creates a Gnome Polymer Clay Crochet Hook and I create a matching Gnome Corner-to-Corner Crochet panel. We are focusing on holiday and seasonal gnome designs. The pixel graph and how-to for the crochet portion of the collab will be right here on Repeat Crafter Me and you can purchase the coordinating clay hook from Jen on her Facebook page “Day by Day Clay and Crochet Group!
The 12 months of Gnomes will be stitched together at the end of the year to make a big blanket!
I am using yarns from the Red Heart brand (Mostly Red Heart Super Saver) and you can find the materials and color lists in each individual gnome pattern post (links below)
Shop all colors on Yarnspirations.com
UPDATE: The blanket is finished! Yay! See the finished Gnome Blanket HERE
Be sure to share your gnome projects on social media using the hashtag #2022gnomeproject
If you are new to the Corner-to-Corner Crochet technique, let me explain a little bit about it as well. C2C lets you turn almost any image into a pixel graph and then from a pixel graph into a crocheted piece! The Corner-to-Corner technique basically means the you start in one corner (the lower right hand is most common place to start) and crochet diagonally in rows until you get to the other corner. You follow the pixel graph to create the color changes that make up the picture of the gnome. One pixel square = a chain 2 + 3 HDC stitches. Please note that I am using HDC stitches for the C2C instead of DC.
Below is a Corner-to-Corner Video Tutorial using a part of my May Gnome graph.
Jennifer Freeman of “My Beautiful Disasters” (Find her HERE on FB!) has been writing out the C2C written pattern for each month. You can find links to her written patterns within each individual gnome post (links below)
Diane of Stitch Therapy is making the gnomes using the POPCORN STITCH! I love the way her gnomes are turning out and you can also find her Popcorn Stitch written patterns within each individual gnome post (links below)
Still not comfortable with the idea of Corner-to-Corner Crochet? Don’t worry, you can use single crochet stitches and crochet each gnome as a graphgan.
SpurView Goods has been uploading the SC written patterns HERE
In addition, I’ve seen so many other creative ways to use these gnome pixel graphs. I’ve seen cross stitch versions of the gnomes, perler bead versions, plastic canvas, knitted, and more! Be sure to search the hashtag #2022gnomeproject on social media so you can see them all!
GET THE JANUARY WINTER GNOME HERE
GET THE FEBRUARY VALENTINE GNOME HERE
GET THE MARCH LEPRECHAUN GNOME HERE
GET THE APRIL BUNNY GNOME HERE
GET THE MAY TULIP FLOWER GNOME HERE
GET THE JUNE STRAWBERRY GNOME HERE
Get the July Patriotic Gnome HERE
(other designs available for this month like a Watermelon and Canadian Flag)
Get the August Summer Gnome HERE
Get the September Fall Gnome HERE
Get the October Halloween Gnome HERE
Get the November Turkey Gnome Here
Get the December Santa Gnome HERE
This project has been so much fun! Be sure to click on the title of each gnome to get multiple designs for each month. We are providing both boy and girl options as well as alternate designs for many of them. Happy Crocheting!
Learn how to join your Gnome pieces HERE
Learn how to make a Border on your gnome blanket HERE
Add on Gnome Pom-Poms to the 4 corners of the finished blanket.
Gnome Pom-Pom tutorial HERE
I also have a BONUS Birthday Gnome that you can make for fun or for your birthday month!
GET THE BIRTHDAY GNOME HERE
If you like these C2C gnomes you may also like my Granny Square Gnomes! Find the pattern HERE
FOLLOW ME for more FREE Crochet!
Repeat Crafter Me Facebook
Repeat Crafter Me Instagram
Repeat Crafter Me Pinterest
Repeat Crafter Me YOUTUBE
Happy New Year 2022!
Happy New Year! I’m ready to bring you lots of new crochet projects and patterns! Thanks for being such a fun fiber-filled community. I am incredibly thankful for all of your support in 2021 and over the past 10 years. This blog has been such a blessing in my life and being able to teach through my free patterns and tutorials has given me so much joy!
Looking at the year ahead, I have many fun things planned for Repeat Crafter Me!
I am excited to be continuing as a Stitch Ambassador for Yarnspirations.com! The team at Sprinrite/Yarnspirations has allowed me to widen my audience and provided me with many of the tools I need to offer you free crochet patterns. They are such a lovely company and have supported my visions for many many years! My latest design, Ollie the O’Go Owl, has been a huge hit! Don’t forget to pop on over to Yarnspirations.com to download it!
I recently had a few new headshots and photos taken of me in my favorite spot: my yarn studio! Thank you to Harley Bonham Photography for the beautiful pics!
You may have noticed that the social media algorithms are constantly changing and evolving. It seems that TikTok and Reels have taken over. I’m going to stick to my usual methods of posting BUT I am challenging myself this year to branch out and try to also get familiar with these types of content.
In addition, I had set a goal for myself last year to work on my video content and focus on YouTube as an additional teaching tool to my photo tutorials and written patterns. Unfortunately I didn’t reach my goal of 100K followers on YouTube (and my kids are very disappoint by this LOL!). They have visions of me becoming a huge YouTube star like Dude Perfect or Mr Beast (HAHA!) So if you feel like supporting this dream my kids have for me, feel free to give my YouTube channel a follow! Repeat Crafter Me YOUTUBE
Last but not least, I will be collaborating with Michaels Craft Store on several projects this year! I do not take this opportunity for granted and it is such a pleasure to be able to work with them and design a few yarn projects for their community!
I have a few more collaborations with fellow designers in our crochet community that I will have to tell you about in a later post. But stay tuned!
If life has felt crazy and stressful, know that you can come here for lots of cute, colorful, and happy crochet! Yarn arts is such a great way to relax. Keep your hands and mind busy and give yourself a chance to just create.
Cheers to 2022!
Oh! Many of you have been asking about a second Cute Critters book. Nothing is set with my publishing company but hopefully I will get the chance to write another book in the near future!
FOLLOW ME for more FREE Crochet!
Repeat Crafter Me Facebook
Repeat Crafter Me Instagram
Repeat Crafter Me Pinterest
Repeat Crafter Me YOUTUBE
Ollie the O’Go Owl Accessories
I am blown away by all of your adorable O’Go Owls!! Thank you to all who participated in the crochet-along I hosted over at Yarnspirations. And it’s never too late to join in! You can find the patterns and video tutorials for all three weeks of the Ollie the O’Go Owl Toy Trio RIGHT HERE! Feel free to crochet your owl at anytime. No rush! Download the pattern and save it for the new year or head back to Yarnspirations.com at anytime for the pattern. It will always be available to you!
GET THE OWL PATTERN HERE ON YARNSPIRATIONS.COM
So many of you have been sharing your finished owls on the Yarnspirations Stitch Squad Facebook Group and your creativity is incredible! The cute additions and customizations you have made to enhance your owls is amazing. Love the idea of adding a scarf and hat! I also saw a pocket added to the back which is used as a money holder for a great gift idea! I’ve seen bows added to the ears and so many different fun color combos!
A fellow crocheter discovered that if you make 3 O’Go Owls, you can use all the yarn that is left over from the 3 O’Gos to make a 4th owl! So 3 O’Go’s = 4 Owls! Yay!
Here is the pattern for a scarf and hat that fits on the owl!
Materials:
– Red Heart Super Saver Yarn in Light Blue, Country Blue, and/or Blue
Shop these colors HERE on Yarnspirations.com
– Size H Crochet Hook
– Tapestry Needle
– Medium size Pom-Pom Maker (optional)
Scarf:
Note: Crochet in a solid color or switch between all 3 colors randomly)
Chain 6, SC in second chain from hook and the rest of the way down chain, chain 1, turn
Row 2- 82: SC in each stitch across, chain 1, turn
Fasten off after row 82 and weave in ends.
Hat:
starting with blue yarn
Magic ring, 11 DC in magic ring, join to first DC, chain 2
Round 2: 2 DC in each around, join, chain 2 (22 DC)
Round 3: 2 DC in first, DC in next, repeat around, join, chain 2 (33 DC)
Round 4: 2 DC in first, DC in next 2, repeat around, join, chain 2 (44 DC)
Round 5-7: DC in each around, join, chain 2 (44 DC)
change to light blue yarn
Round 8-10: DC in each around, join, chain 2 (44 DC)
fasten off, weave in ends.
fold up brim
Add a pom-pom in country blue for the top of the hat
You can also use the smallest size Santa Hat Pattern HERE for a festive look!
Ollie the O’Go Owl CAL – Week 3
Welcome to the final week of our Crochet Along! In this lesson we’ll be putting all our pieces together to make this owl toy come to life. Attach the eyes and beak to the head using a tapestry needle, add the rest of your stuffing and then stitch the head shut once you’re happy with the shape. Finish by attaching the wings and feet to the body of the owl. Use the rows on the owl’s head as a reference to make sure the eyes align perfectly. You can customize the ear size by adding a few extra stitches while you’re sewing the head shut to make them more prominent.
Tip: You can choose the safety eye size that feels best to you, or stitch up two pupils by creating a magic ring and 6 single crochets in a black worsted weight yarn.
18mm black safety eye seems to work well. Or any size close to that.
I purchased THIS pack of safety eyes from Amazon.
You can also use buttons! Lots of options!
Be sure to show us all your finished stuffies! I love all the colors you have chosen for your Owls and can’t wait to see them all stitched up!
Make sure to share your progress on the Yarnspirations Stitch Squad Facebook Group or tag @Yarnspirations on Instagram using hashtag #YARNSPO.
Ollie The O’Go Owl CAL – Week 2
Welcome to week 2 of our O’Go Owl Crochet-Along! I’ve seen so many of you start this fun project and I am excited that a lot of you are diving right in and making more than one owl!
GET THE WEEK 2 TUTORIAL HERE
This week we’ll be creating two eyes, two wings and two feet using a combination of magic rings and single crochets. Use whichever colors you like, but we recommend dipping into your third color for the beak and feet to make them pop.
I’ve had several questions about the safety eyes. We will address that in the finishing portion of the CAL (week 3) but I will say that an 18mm black safety eye seems to work well. Or any size close to that. I purchased THIS pack of safety eyes from Amazon.
You can also use buttons or crochet a small black circle with worsted weight yarn! Lots of options!
We’re excited to see how you customize your trio! Make sure to share your progress on the Yarnspirations Stitch Squad Facebook Group or tag @Yarnspirations on Instagram using hashtag #YARNSPO.
Ollie the O’Go Owl CAL – Week 1
HOOOO is ready to crochet?! Welcome to Week 1 of the Ollie the O’Go Owl Crochet-Along! In this lesson you will learn how to open your O’Go, how to separate the colors, and get started on stitching up the body and head of the owl.
We’re excited to see how you customize your trio! Make sure to share your progress on the Yarnspirations Stitch SquadFacebook Group or tag @Yarnspirations on Instagram using hashtag #YARNSPO.
Cousin Itt Halloween Treat Bucket with Bernat Yarn and Addams Family Costume
Happy October! One of my favorite months because our family loves Halloween! This year we decided that for our family costume we would be the Addams Family! Zoe absolutely nailed the part of Wednesday Addams and my middle guy Chase is a dead ringer for Pugsley! I think I play a pretty awesome Morticia. My oldest son is Uncle Fester and of course my husband had to be Gomez.
And we can’t forget Cousin Itt! I used two skeins of Bernat Softee Chunky yarn to cover a plastic Halloween Treat Bucket! I attached a Hat with some string so you can still pull it up and fill the bucket with candy. It’s perfect and so easy! I created a video tutorial to show you how it’s done.
Shop Bernat Softee Chunky Yarn: https://bit.ly/2Y7GVDZ
Cousin Itt Hat: https://amzn.to/3B7xHG6
Cousin Itt Sunglasses: https://amzn.to/3mmQYgE
Links to the Family Costume:
Morticia: https://amzn.to/3a2FLvY
Uncle Fester Mask: https://amzn.to/3uHxTty
Uncle Fester Robe: https://amzn.to/3A5r5aa
Gomez: https://amzn.to/2ZMktAV
Gomez Wig and Mustache: https://amzn.to/3otlI2c
Wednesday Shoes: https://amzn.to/3B6YDG3
Wednesday Wig: https://amzn.to/3Dc9krL
Wednesday Dress: https://amzn.to/3A4xwtS
Pugsley Shirt: https://amzn.to/3D63eZH
Show me your Halloween costumes! Tag me on social media using #RepeatCrafterMe
FOLLOW ME for more FREE Crochet!
Repeat Crafter Me Facebook
Repeat Crafter Me Instagram
Repeat Crafter Me Pinterest
Repeat Crafter Me YOUTUBE
Introducing O’Go Yarn!
There’s a brand new yarn hitting shelves today! Introducing O’Go! After years of tangles, the revolutionary new yarn is finally here. O’Go is a new yarn format the is tangle-free and quick start. No more searching for the starting strand or dealing with yarn barf. Just O’Go and Go! You can find it in your favorite brands: Bernat, Red Heart, and Caron. I have all the details below!
The evolution of yarn:
Now we have the O’Go!
Here is the yarn overview:
The yarn is NOT replacing the ball/skein you are used to purchase. Also, it has the exact same yardage/ounces as the skein of the same yarn! The benefits are that it’s in a new tangle-free quick start format and you have the color play option!
How does O’Go work?
When you take it out of the packaging, it looks like a ring. Find the where the two ends meet and snip the plastic fastener. Pull the fastener string out and the start stitching as you pull from the outer end! Easy-peasy and tangle free!
The Red Heart Super Saver O’Go comes in both solid and self-striping. You can let it color stripe (no knots in the color changes!) or you can color play. Easily separate the colors by pulling apart where each color meets in the O’Go. Then you can cut and separate and use as you’d like. For instance, the rainbow color O’Go would be great to use for a Unicorn or Rainbow project. You wouldn’t have to buy multiple skeins.
How do you store O’Go? If you have just started your project and want to set it in your project tote, lay it in there with the working side pointed upward. It won’t collapse or come apart. If you want to put it away for later and/or have separated the colors, you can try storing it in a ziplock bag.
The packaging was made with retailers in mind. It can sit upright on shelves or it can be hung on a peg. For at home storage of your O’Go’s you have lots of options! I say stack them! Check out THIS storage solution video from The Crochet Crowd.
Where can I buy O’Go? All of the O’Go yarn styles and colors can be purchased HERE on Yarnspirations.com!
Check out this chart for Retailer Availability:
How much does O’Go Cost? Right now they range from $5 to $12 depending on if you are purchasing the Red Heart or the Bernat Blanket but keep in mind that retailers set their own pricing and sales! Keep checking all the sites and Yarnspirations.com for future price adjustments.
Where can I find Crochet Patterns using O’Go Yarn?
Find an entire O’Go pattern library HERE on Yarnspirations.com!
Check out my O’Go Yarn Review on the Repeat Crafter Me YouTube Page!
Michaels Logo Challenge
EDIT!!! Due to an error in the #MyMichaelsLogo Challenge, Michaels Stores has decided to conclude the challenge early. I will still be choosing 3 people at random to receive $50 gift card! No need to reimagine the Michaels Logo.
Michaels Stores is challenging makers to reimagine the @Michaelsstores logo, and I’m here for it! What better way to show love for my favorite craft store than to crochet their logo?! Using Red Heart Super Saver yarn, I stitched each letter and attached it to a simple single crochet rectangle. I then took the project one step further and made it into a zipper pouch to hold all of my crochet accessories! It’s the perfect storage spot for my Michaels haul!
Michaels Maker Zipper Pouch:
Materials:
– Red Heart Super Saver Yarn in colors of your choice. Shop HERE at Michaels.com.
– Size H Crochet Hook. Shop Crochet Hooks HERE.
– Handmade for You Buttons found at Michaels Stores
– 14″ Zipper
– Tapestry Needle
– Red Heart A to Z in Crochet. FREE pattern HERE on Yarnspirations.com
Pouch Pattern:
First make two SC rectangles
Chain 41, SC in second chain from hook and the rest of the way down, chain 1, turn
Row 2-30: SC in each stitch across, chain 1, turn
Fasten off and weave in ends.
Stitch crocheted letters onto one side of pouch and feel free to jazz it up with slip stitching lines, buttons, and however else you want to decorate!
A to Z Crochet Letters is a FREE pattern RIGHT HERE on Yarnspirations.com
Using a sharp tapestry needle and a strand of yarn, stitch on zipper to each side of pocket rectangles then Single Crochet the last 3 edges of your rectangles together.
I had so much fun stitching up my version of the @Michaelsstores logo! Now I’m challenging you to recreate the Michaels logo in your own way! I’ll be choosing up to 3 entries to receive a $50 Michaels gift card! Let’s see what you got! Be sure to tag me and #MyMichaelsLogo on social media. This is not sponsored by or in partnership with Instagram or Michaels. I will be choosing 3 winners on 8/15/21.
Birdhouse C2C Square
I’m adding a cute little Birdhouse Corner-to-Corner Crochet Square to the Sparrow C2C Blanket! My plan is for this to be the center square so I do need to crochet a few more birds before I can start joining it all together. The birdhouse is completely customizable! I chose to add a heart on one side of the square and a circle on the either. You can’t go wrong either way! I am also including a graph (below) if you want to crochet a heart right into the C2C design.
You can find the Sparrow C2C Squares HERE.
Materials:
– Red Heart Super Saver Yarn in Aqua (Turqua), Taupe, and Saffron.
Shop all colors HERE on Yarnspirations.com
– Size H Crochet Hook
– Tapestry Needle
– Bird House Pixel Graph
I used the C2C (corner-to-corner) technique to crochet each square. Follow THIS VIDEO DEMONSTRATION by The Crochet Crowd for more explanation on how to crochet C2C afghans. I used a size H crochet hook and worsted weight yarn . Specifically Red Heart Super Saver. Each square takes less than a skein. I was able to make 4 squares with one skein of aqua!
VERY IMPORTANT: Instead of the traditional C2C method of using DC’s and chain 3’s to make each pixel, I used HDC’s and only chained 2 (and chained 5 instead 6 on the increase stitches). I like the way the overall stitches look tighter and neater. You can absolutely use the traditional method! Keep in mind that it will take a little bit more yarn and your overall project will be larger (which isn’t a bad thing!)
Find the Heart Pattern HERE
Circle Pattern:
Magic Ring, chain 2 and make 12 DC in ring, join, chain 1
Round 2: 2 SC in each stitch around, join, fasten off leaving long tail.
Heart on one side!
Circle on the other!
As I’ve been crocheting this sweet bird blanket, my husband and I noticed a few sparrows hanging around the side of our house. We installed an outdoor TV along the wall of our house during Covid stay-at-home orders and just noticed that the cute little sparrows were building a nest in the back of it! We haven’t moved the TV or turned it on in awhile (and don’t plan to!) We can’t wait to see these 3 little birds hatch! We are going to name them Stitch, Stash, and Skein 🙂
Stay tuned for more updates! (on the blanket and the birdies)
Big News! We’re Moving!
There was another reason I created the Crochet Cactus... I used it for our big announcement! We are on the move again! My husband accepted a job offer he couldn’t refuse and we are moving to Scottsdale, Arizona. We are so sad to leave our fabulous community in Orange County, CA but we are excited for this new adventure. We are still looking for a house (and having a craft/crochet room is a must!) so if you know of anything in the Scottsdale area, send the real estate listings my way.
I’m so sad to leave this craft room 🙁 Hopeful that I can get something similar in a new house!
Hoping for a smooth transition for our family! I am lucky that my yarn can travel with me but my first priority is getting the kids settled. Prayers and positive vibes are welcome!
Llama Love Pillow
Here’s a little Llama Love coming your way! This adorable Llama can be made in any color combo and it can be used for many different projects! I made a pillow but I also made my sweet baby nephew a wall hanging (he’s due in March!) and I love the idea of making this into a blanket as well. You will follow a pixel graph to crochet the simple llama shaped body into a graphgan square. Then you will add the features like the ears, tails, legs, and snout over the top! Lots of cute texture and a fun design. I spiced this one up for Valentine’s Day by adding tiny crochet hearts!
Materials:
– Red Heart Super Saver Yarn in Colors:
Light Raspberry
Baby Pink
Soft White
Oatmeal
Shop all the colors HERE on Yarnspirations.com
– A bit of black yarn or embroidery thread
– Size H Crochet Hook
– Pixel Graph HERE
– 14 x 14 Poly-fil Premier Pillow Insert
You will crochet one of these panels using the pixel graph and any color you’d like for the background and white or cream for the llama body. Make sure you have a square when you are finished. I had to add on an extra 5 rows to mine. I used Light Raspberry color yarn for the background and off white for the llama.
Make a starting chain of 46, SC in second chain from hook and the rest of the way down chain, you should have a total of 45 SC stitches. This is the bottom row of your pixel graph. One square is equal to one Single Crochet stitch. Follow the graph and SC in rows to make the square with the llama body.
Crochet a second SC panel that is the same size (about 15×15 inch square) without the llama body. Just a solid color. I used baby pink for the backside of my pillow.
Sorry, I hope I don’t offend anyone but my husband says this pixel graph looks inappropriate LOL!
You can carry your yarn through or use two balls of the pink to crochet on either side of the white body.
Now make the embellishments!
Feet: make 4
With oatmeal color yarn
Chain 8, HDC in 4th chain from hook, DC in remaining 4 chains, fasten off leaving long tail.
Snout:
With oatmeal color yarn
Magic Ring, chain 1 and make 10 SC in ring, join, chain 1
Round 2: 2 SC in first, SC in next, repeat around, join, chain 2 (15 SC)
Round 3: 2 DC in first, DC, HDC, SC in next 8, HDC in next, DC, 2 DC in last two stitches, join, fasten off leaving long tail.
Nose:
With black yarn
Magic ring, chain 1 and make 6 SC in ring, join, fasten off and weave in ends.
Stitch on smile to snout under nose.
Ears: make 2
With soft white yarn
Chain 13, SC in second chain from hook, SC, HDC in next 2, DC in next 4, HDC, SC, 2 SC in last, now working on other side, SC in each chain, join to first SC, fasten off leaving long tail.
Tail:
With soft white yarn
Chain 6, HDC in second chain from hook, 2 HDC in next, 2 DC in next, DC in last two, fasten off leaving long tail.
Cheek:
With baby pink yarn
Magic Ring, chain 1 and make 10 SC in ring, join, fasten off leaving long tail.
Saddle:
With baby pink
Magic Ring, chain 1 and make 6 SC in ring, do not join, pull tight to make half circle
Join in raspberry pink yarn
2 SC in first, SC in next 4, 2 SC in last
Join in oatmeal color yarn
2 SC in first, HDC in next, 2 DC in next 3, HDC, 2 SC in last
Fasten off
Loop in a few strands of baby pink at bottom for fringe.
Now place the two squares together and SC along the edges to close it up around your pillow form.
I made this wall hanging for my baby nephew who is making his debut into the world soon! As you can see, you can use this llama as a part of a bigger crochet project or blanket!
This wall hanging is about 23 x 23 inches (with a starting chain of 100 stitches. Super cute, right?!
Hope you enjoy this Llama project! Show me what you come up with by tagging me on social media. @RepeatCrafterMe or #RepeatCrafterMe
FOLLOW ME for more FREE Crochet!
Repeat Crafter Me Facebook
Repeat Crafter Me Instagram
Repeat Crafter Me Pinterest
Repeat Crafter Me YOUTUBE
Maker Space Makeover with Michaels Stores
My maker space needed a makeover so I went to @michaelsstores for some organizational products! I used the 3 Tier Rolling Cart and the 5 Drawer Rolling Cart to get my craft room in order. Everything that I need to make, sell, and run my small business is now right at arms reach.Keeping yourself organized and on-task is the real key to small business success!
I’ve got my crochet hooks, buttons, pom pom makers, hot glue guns, cameras, and my current works in progress all in order. Plus, since the carts are on wheels, I can bring it with me into other rooms if needed. You never know when inspiration will hit! Creating an efficient workspace is important so you can spend more time creating and less time searching for materials!
I love that these rolling carts come in bright happy colors. I’m feeling so inspired and ready for a new year of makingand creating! 🧶❤️🧡💛💚💙
You can shop for the 3 Tier Rolling Cart and 5 Drawer Rolling Cart HERE
This post is sponsored by Michaels Stores. I am excited for the opportunity to collaborate with them this year! #MakeItWithMichaels #ad #sponsored
Caron Little Crafties
Introducing Caron Little Crafties, a multi-pack of yarn that contains a rainbow of colors perfect for bringing life to all your small projects. From endearing toys, to bright trimmings, to unique décor accents, you’ll find all the inspiration you need in Little Crafties. Boasting an array of bright and playful shades, this acrylic yarn is the ideal choice for introductory kid’s crafts, too. Each pack contains 20 mini balls of colorful yarn that are well-suited to doing all sorts of patterns for any season, theme or event. Caron Little Crafties is the new go-to yarn for all your craftiest projects!
You can find many different craft projects and crochet patterns using Caron Little Crafties on Yarnspirations.com!
Find the Little Crafties Project Library HERE
I followed the pattern for the Caron Crochet Amigurumi Friends. I loved the little mouse and realized that it could easily be turned into a bear! I used honey brown Little Crafties yarn and a bit of white for the snout and ears. The light blue made the perfect scarf! And I went ahead and added in safety eyes and nose but you can use a french knot for the eyes and stitch on the mouth/nose instead as shown in the directions.
You can find the Caron Crochet Amigurumi Friends pattern HERE
Pattern for the Snout: Magic Ring, chain 1 and make 2 SC + HDC + DC + HDC + 2 SC + HDC + DC + HDC, join to first SC, pull tight and fasten off.
Pattern for Scarf: Chain 42, HDC in 3rd chain from hook and rest of the way down chain, fasten off and weave in ends.
Get the Caron Little Crafties Crochet Pattern HERE on Yarnspirations.com!
Show us what you make! I think this little bear is going to make an adorable keychain. Tag #RepeatCrafterMe and #Yarnspirations on social media!
DIY Backyard Treehouse
It all started with an idea to give our kids a fun place to hang out and play during the initial Covid stay-at-home order. We were spending most of our days in the backyard and with the kids unable to see friends or attend school in-person, we wanted to do something to lift their spirits.
We had always felt like there was an empty corner of the yard with a large tree that would be perfect for a Treehouse! My husband hasn’t ever built something like this but it turns out he is pretty darn crafty and handy!
He bought THIS BOOK called “Black & Decker The Complete Guide to Treehouses, 2nd Edition: Design & Build Your Kids a Treehouse” and it truly helped with every step-by-step of the design and build of our DIY Treehouse. It was very easy for my husband to pick and choose the tutorials and examples from the book that would work for our space.
He started by cementing in posts and building a platform around the tree.
A post was added to the back corner after these photos were taken. We needed a bit of help digging and cementing that one in! The platform/flooring is extremely stable!
I love that the kids got to see Daddy building something like this from start to finish. And they got to help along the way! We feel like they truly got to learn some valuable skills during this process.
So excited that the platform is done!
Now they get to help paint! We chose a color called November Gray by Valspar. It’s an exterior waterproof sealer/stain.
The walls were built individually and then lifted onto the platform and secured in place. He used cedar planks that clicked together. I believe most all the materials were purchased at Home Depot. Lots of trips to Home Depot!
I ordered the windows off of Amazon. They are shed windows and come in various sizes!
Had to include a doggy door ramp for our pup Max!
The porch and railings turned out fabulous! We got solar light caps for the railing posts and also solar porch light for over the door! Those were all pretty inexpensive additions we found at Home Depot.
I didn’t get a good picture of the roof but we ended up going with a tin roof. It came in two big sheets and was easier to install than wood and shingles.
We have a turf putting green that sits right in front of the tree house (we all love to golf!) so you are seeing a golf ball washer and golf club washer attached to the front post. We also put a pulley system and attached it to the side!
At one point during the summer, Zoe got to have her girlfriends over! This was before the second wave of Covid hit California.
Hard to tell in the picture but there is also a peep hole in the front door!
Here is a view of the inside! We set up a chalkboard for the kids and moved a small kids table and chairs into the treehouse that had previously been in Zoe’s room. I definitely need to crochet a rug and some curtains at some point!
I love the way it lights up at night!! All solar power!
We took our 2020 family photos in the treehouse using a tripod and camera timer!
Happy kids!
Hope you enjoyed a little peek at our Covid Construction Project! We are all enjoying this DIY Backyard Treehouse during this crazy year.
Red Heart Pompom Trimmed Tree Skirt
I have a mini Christmas Tree in my crochet room that is full of colorful yarn themed ornaments! I wanted to crochet a small tree skirt for it and came across this bright color-striped Red Heart Pompom Trimmed Tree Skirt on Yarnspirations.com! I love how the colors matched my pompom garland exactly! Plus it was super quick to work up and I had all the Red Heart Super Saver yarn on hand. You could actually use any color combinations of your choice. Lots of ways to customize this tree skirt!
You can find the Red Heart Pompom Trimmed Tree Skirt Pattern HERE (It’s FREE!) but keep in mind that this one fits a regular size Christmas Tree.
So I made a few small adjustments to the pattern to make it smaller for my mini tree…
I stared with a chain of 32 instead of 53. Then follow the pattern as written. You will end up with only 5 pompom points instead of 9. That’s it!
Just keep crocheting in rows of colors (white in-between) as stated in the pattern. Easy-peasy!
Show me your Christmas trees! Tag me on social media using #RepeatCrafterMe. And if you make this Red Heart Pompom Trimmed Tree Skirt be sure to tag #Yarnspirations and let them know how much you love it!
Red Heart Snowman and Gingerbread Stockings
They are the dynamic duo! The Snowman and Gingerbread Man are two of my favorite holiday characters that are always cute and sweet to crochet. I spotted THIS adorable Red Heart Snowman Stocking Pattern on the Yarnspirations website and couldn’t resist crocheting one for myself! Then I was inspired to make a second one in a gingerbread theme! I could really keep going and make even more cute Christmas stockings 🙂
The pattern is extremely easy! Just rows of single crochet stitches, switching color as desired or as the pattern calls for. You will crochet two separate pieces and then stitch (or crochet ) the two pieces together along the edges. I love this technique because it makes it very easy to add embellishments like the button eyes and carrot nose!
Shop all the colors in the Red Heart Super Saver line of yarn HERE
Give this crochet pattern a try and let me know what you create!
GET THE RED HEART SNOWMAN STOCKING PATTERN HERE
Be sure to tag me (@RepeatCrafterMe) and Yarnspirations (@Yarnspirations) on social media! Hashtags work too!
Here’s to a very CUTE Christmas!
Christmas Characters CAL – Gingerbread Bonus Design
I hope you have all enjoyed the past five weeks of the Christmas Characters Crochet-Along Blanket that I hosted with my friends at Yarnspirations! So many of you have been posting your finished blankets on social media using the hashtag #ChristmasCharactersCAL and they are incredible! I love seeing your creativity come through with additional embellishments. Adding on so many fun pieces on top of the original pattern like some holly berry to frosty’s hat and pipsqueak (furry yarn) to Santa’s beard.
I promised you guys a bonus panel and so I am delivering to you a freshly baked Gingerbread Man! Isn’t he adorable?! Using the same colors from the rest of the blanket, you can easily crochet this additional Christmas Character and attach it to the back of the blanket (opposite of Rudolph the Reindeer) or start a new blanket!
I have lots of other ideas for the other backside panels as well. I’m not sure I will have time to crochet them any time soon but I would love to see your idea for other Christmas Characters! For instance how about Mrs Claus on the other side of Santa (shout out to Phyllis who already created a Mrs Claus panel and posted it in the Yarnspirations Stitch Squad!) A polar bear or penguin on the other side of the Snowman?! And how about a Christmas tree or Gift Box for the green panel?! Tons of options!
Now for the Gingerbread Panel Design!
Below is the video tutorial and written pattern:
Rik-Rak Whte Frosting Pattern:
Chain 50, 2 SC in second chain from hook, SC in next 4, now you are going to make a 3 SC Decrease (SC three stitches together), *SC in next 4, 3 SC in next, SC in next 4, 3 SC Decrease, repeat from * until the end of the chain making 3 SC in the last stitch, chain 1, turn.
Row 2: 2 SC in second stitch, SC in next 4, 3 SC Decrease, SC in next 4, 3 SC in next, repeat until end, make 3 SC in last stitch, chain 1, turn
Repeat row 2 another time or leave as is!
I originally made 3 rows and then ended up ripping one row out because I felt like ultimately the 2 rows looked better on the blanket panel.
Eyes = Same as Santa/Snowman/Elf eyes
Buttons = Same as eye pattern
Cheeks = Same as “Pom-Poms” from Santa and Elf hat
Smile = with white, chain 40, fasten off leaving long tail to stitch chain onto blanket in the shape of a smile.
Merry Crocheting!
As you are working on your blanket, please share your progress on social media using the hashtag #ChristmasCharactersCAL. I would love to see your works in progress as well as your finished blankets!
Christmas Characters CAL – Week 4
Frosty the Snowman, was a jolly happy soul! Welcome to Week 4 of the Christmas Characters CAL! Just a few crocheted elements bring this snowman to life! The white background does almost all the work for us. Just add a few single crocheted circles for buttons and eyes. A crocheted carrot nose, a scarf, and top hat completes this cute Christmas character.
Get the Week 4 (Snowman) Pattern and Video HERE
If you missed the previous weeks, don’t worry, they are all there for you in the link above!
If you tried signing up and are having issues or you aren’t receiving the emails, here is what you can do. THIS link should take you directly to each weeks instructions and pattern.
In addition, Yarnspirations is still accepting sign ups. For those of you who would like to sign up, but are having issues, you can direct message Yarnspirations on Facebook or send an inquiry to [email protected]. Also, HERE is the direct link to the landing page where you can get the pattern and videos.
You can still come to my blog or social media pages every Friday over the next 5 weeks to get the links to the pattern/video.
Looking for a quick project? Use the leftover yarn from your Christmas Characters Blanket to make these Christmas Buddy Bookmarks! Get the free pattern HERE
As you are working on your blanket, please share your progress on social media using the hashtag #ChristmasCharactersCAL. I would love to see your works in progress as well as your finished blankets!
I designed a super fun Christmas blanket for the whole family to enjoy! The Christmas Characters blanket features a set of recognizable holiday characters, making it perfect for the upcoming season.
Christmas Characters CAL – Week 3
You better watch out
You better not cry
You better not pout
I’m telling you why
Santa Claus is coming to town!
Ho Ho Ho! Merry Week 3! With his long beard and white brimmed hat, Santa has the largest elements to crochet. But repeating rows of single crochet and double crochet stitches make all these embellishments pretty simple to work up.
Get the Week 3 (Santa) Pattern and Video HERE
If you missed the previous weeks, don’t worry, they are all there for you in the link above!
If you tried signing up and are having issues or you aren’t receiving the emails, here is what you can do. THIS link should take you directly to each weeks instructions and pattern.
In addition, I got some new info from Yarnspirations that I hope will help! They ARE still accepting sign ups, so for those who would like to sign up, but are having issues, you can direct message Yarnspirations on Facebook or send an inquiry to [email protected]. Also, HERE is the direct link to the landing page where you can get the pattern and videos.
You can still come to my blog or social media pages every Friday over the next 5 weeks to get the links to the pattern/video. If you did sign up and can’t find your emails please try searching in your e-mail search bar for [email protected] and see if your emails appear. Sometimes they are hidden in spam or other folders (especially if you have gmail).
Again, feel free to just click this link to get to WEEK ONE, TWO, and THREE!
As you are working on your blanket, please share your progress on social media using the hashtag #ChristmasCharactersCAL. I would love to see your works in progress as well as your finished blankets!
I designed a super fun Christmas blanket for the whole family to enjoy! The Christmas Characters blanket features a set of recognizable holiday characters, making it perfect for the upcoming season.
Christmas Characters CAL – Week 2
Merry Crochet Along! Welcome to week TWO of this jolly project.
Rudolph with your nose so bright, won’t you guide our CAL tonight? Rudolph leads the way as our first Christmas character to be completed! We start out by crocheting in the round to create eyes, the snout, and the bells for his collar. Then we move on to make the ears and antlers. We finish off by attaching the embellishments we created onto the blanket.
GET THE WEEK 2 INSTRUCTIONS HERE
If you missed Week 1, don’t worry, you can still get those instructions too!
GET THE WEEK 1 INSTRUCTIONS HERE (in the same post as above)
If you tried signing up and are having issues or you aren’t receiving the emails, here is what you can do. THIS link should take you directly to each weeks instructions and pattern.
In addition, I got some new info from Yarnspirations that I hope will help! They ARE still accepting sign ups, so for those who would like to sign up, but are having issues, you can direct message Yarnspirations on Facebook or send an inquiry to [email protected]. Also, HERE is the direct link to the landing page where you can get the pattern and videos.
You can still come to my blog or social media pages every Friday over the next 5 weeks to get the links to the pattern/video. If you did sign up and can’t find your emails please try searching in your e-mail search bar for [email protected] and see if your emails appear. Sometimes they are hidden in spam or other folders (especially if you have gmail).
Again, feel free to just click this link to get to WEEK ONE AND TWO!
As you are working on your blanket, please share your progress on social media using the hashtag #ChristmasCharactersCAL. I would love to see your works in progress as well as your finished blankets!
I designed a super fun Christmas blanket for the whole family to enjoy! The Christmas Characters blanket features a set of recognizable holiday characters, making it perfect for the upcoming season.