Remembrance Poppy Crochet

It's Remembrance Day on 11th November and the red poppy has become an emblem of Remembrance.

I crocheted my own this year using this pattern

I used Patons Fairytale Soft 4ply yarn in a bright red and a 3.5mm hook. 

A black silk button gave my poppy a centre with a badge pin sewn on behind it.

Despite wearing my own poppy, when I see the Royal British Legion selling theirs, I'll still put my money in the tin.

Merry Christmas Mitts

I love a free pattern, so when it came from one of my favourite creators, I was over the moon!  It went straight to the top of my 'To Make' list.

The Merry Christmas Mitts pattern by HanJan Crochet (Hannah Cross) is well written and can be completed very quickly.

The pattern uses one colour yarn, but I used two; Patons Smoothie DK in Blue and Lilac Mix. I think they compliment each other well.

I used a 4mm hook, as recommended on the yarn label.

As Hannah says, these are just the thing for last minute stocking fillers... though I think they're also just the thing for me!

Check out some more fingerless glove inspiration over at my Project Gallery.

Au Revoir! Handmade Card

Do you use Instagram? I've grown quite attached to it of late and from time to time I post about the projects I'm working on.

This is my most recent project post...

A simple leaving card for my work colleague. She loves Paris, so Au Revoir seemed fitting.

Red, white and blue (the colours of the French flag). An Eiffel Tower charm attached to a ribbon bow. The sentiment "Au Revoir" not "Goodbye".

I just love simple cards. Less is more, plus they're quick to make.

If you're on Instagram, why not follow me? 

The Knitter's Handbook

I try my hand at many crafts, but I haven't knitted since I was a kid. A couple of years ago I tried with my Mom's help, but failed instantly. I can crochet so, why can't I knit?

When I got my hands on The Knitter's Handbook by Eleanor van Zandt, I couldn't wait to delve in and finally learn this craft.

The book covers everything from the basics for a new knitter (like me!) to special techniques for the more experienced.

I started with the basics and found it very easy to follow - the casting on illustrations are clear and simple.

Before long I was knitting my first few rows. It took a while to get to grips with it. They weren't perfect, but isn't that what practice makes?

Textures are clearly photographed and explained. Techniques likewise. I aspire to do these one day!

This book reminds me of the pocket Crochet Answers Book - everything is explained clearly. I love my crochet book and refer to it often. I can see this book getting the same attention.

The Knitter's Handbook also shows you how to do those finishing touches, like crochet edging, pompom making and embroidery on knitting.

In conclusion, this book is ideal for all levels of knitters and is the perfect book to keep-to-hand in your knitting bag. I know my copy will be.

Hamlyn

www.octopusbooks.co.uk

Harlequin Hoodie

Here's my latest crochet make, The Harlequin Hoodie...

I found the free pattern by Marken of The Hat & I on Ravelry.

It's a great project to pick up here and there, when time allows.

I used Stylecraft DK yarn in bright colours and a 6mm hook.