The Mother Lode

Crafts and Crochet

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10 Stunning Crochet Patterns to make for Fall

The chilly temps have arrived in Pennsylvania and I’m loving it! I want to share some FREE patterns with you today from amazing crochet designers that are stunning for fall! We’ve got shawls, blankets, hats, scarves, all the cozy things that are also beautiful! I’ve joined a lovely facebook group this year full of talented, hard-working designers. It’s been so nice for us to share each other’s work through events like blog hops and roundups such as this.

Lace Sleeve Pullover by Briana K Designs

Truly, Briana is one of the most talented designers! I dare anyone to browse her patterns without finding 10 things you want to make! This Lace Sleeve Pullover is so pretty and stunning for fall!

Tulip Square Scarf by Wilmade

Wilma creates beautiful patterns! I particularly like her granny squares. This Tulip Square Scarf uses granny squares to form this lovely scarf. I love the balance of the oversize plus the lacy squares, it’s magnificent!

Cable Stitch Hat by Banana Moon Studio

This hat is so pretty! I love the texture of the cables, and it looks warm and cozy for fall! The Blair Beanie has 4 sizes, so you could make one for everyone in the family.

Harvest Fields Wrap from Made by Gootie

This wrap is GORGEOUS and it’s unique construction gives is some extra oomph and versatility. The little bit of texture there is pretty and it looks quite cozy. What color would you choose for the Harvest Fields Wrap?

Rainbow Granny Square Blanket by Raffamusa Designs

I mean. Come on. This design is so fun! Stunning in it’s bright colors and unique granny squares. How can you keep from cracking a smile over this pattern!? The Rainbow Granny Square Blanket began as a crochet-a-long, and now you can head to the blog post and make all the pieces!

Aneira Infinity Scarf by Madame Stitch

This is such a lovely infinity scarf pattern! The lacy part is so pretty, I can imagine it being perfect for fall when you might be sweating by the middle of the afternoon! The Aneira Infinity Scarf could even be a hit as a gift this season!

Mosaic in a Month Blanket by Juniper and Oakes

This blanket was a collaborative effort for the design and it is a masterpiece! You’ll have to jump around a bit to each section to make this blanket, but I’m sure it’s worth the effort because it is SO gorgeous. The Mosaic in a Month blanket would be a great challenge to make this “crochet season.”

Bellus Mittens by Joy of Motion Crochet

These are lovely! The texture is pretty, but they still look very warm! These would make a great gift if you don’t need a pair of mittens yourself! I would make the Bellus Mittens in a pretty dark pink.

Luxe Leopard Headband by Crafting for Weeks

I see this every fall and I always think I’m going to make one, and I still have yet to! Maybe this fall is the time! It’s such a beautiful pattern. The Luxe Leopard pattern has all the sizes you could possibly need, go check it out!

Simple Ridges Beanie by me!

This is one of my favorite designs! Use some of that fancy hand dyed fingering weight someday yarn for this light beanie! Hold the fingering yarn double to make this pretty hat. The Simple Ridges Beanie is perfect for fall when you might not need that thick hat yet.

Which one will you make?!!? If only my fingers could fly so I could make them all in my limited mom time! I’ve been eyeing the Luxe Leopard Headband ever since Kelsie published it, though, so I think that’s going to be the one that I make. Ooooo you know what? I’m going to make that my car project for the foreseeable future. Follow me on Instagram, I’ll share about it there! @motherlodecrafts

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Sunset on the Water Earrings

We have come to the final earring pattern in this fun Summer Earring CAL! These gorgeous Sunset on the Water Earrings are pretty unique, I’ve only seen one other designer use this technique for earrings (is that a bad thing, does that mean you won’t like them? Was this a bad idea? Cue crisis mode in my brain as I debate all my choices making this pattern……..) ANYWAY, I hope you do like them, I think they are really cool and honestly, if you have experience with tapestry crochet and using crochet thread, they are easier than last week’s sun patterns. I did my best to make the tapestry portion of these easy to understand in the written instructions. The PDF includes a 3 page photo tutorial. The way I write the photo tutorials, it would take to much time to break it up and put it on the blog, because there are 24 photos in this one! BUT please! If you need help using the free pattern and purchasing the PDF isn’t an option for you, reach out to me on Instagram @motherlodecrafts and I would be happy to help you!

The pertinent info for this pattern: use 4 colors of size 10 crochet thread to make a lovely sunset design tapestry earring. They are a medium difficulty due to the use of tapestry crochet, which has many color changes. You’ll need a 1.5 mm hook, size 10 thread, earring findings, and stiffening spray to make these earrings.

ravelry
Etsy
LoveCrafts

Supplies

Gauge

12 rows of single crochet with 13 sts = 1 inch square

Personally, I find the smallest hook I can handle for the thread size (for earrings) produces the best, tightly stitched look.

Stitches (US Terms)

  • ch = chain
  • sc = single crochet
  • sl st = slip stitch
  • st/sts = stitch/stitches
  • sc BLO = single crochet in the back loop only
  • sk = skip
  • RS = right side
  • WS = wrong side
  • Special Stitch: dec = insert hook in st, pull up a loop, insert hook in next st, pull up a loop, pull that 3rd loop through 2 loops on hook

Notes

  • Pattern is worked in one flat piece in turned rows for each earring. (2 pieces total)
  • For the best look, stiffen the earrings. I use Aleene’s Fabric Stiffening Spray and t-pins on a blocking mat.
  • Stitch counts are marked in { } at the end of each row.
  • Finished dimensions: 1.25 x 1.25 inches
  • This pattern uses tapestry crochet technique. Tapestry crochet uses single crochet stitches to create intricate colorwork. When changing colors, carry the previous color just behind the work and crochet over it. The color changes are noted with a bold letter corresponding to that color, for example, Row 2: A 6, B 3, A 6, ch 1, turn. {15 sc} means sc with color A in the first 6 sts, change to color B, sc with color B in the next 3 sts, then change back to color A for the last 6 sts, then ch 1 and turn (still using color A.)
  • Row 8 uses sc BLO to help create a flatter horizon. Continue using tapestry crochet method as above.
  • This pattern uses a special decrease stitch to help form the nice, round shaping at the top. Follow the instructions as above, do not use a regular single crochet decrease stitch.

Written Instructions

(Make 2) beginning with color A:

Row 1: Ch 16, sc 2nd st from hook and each ch across, ch 1, turn. {15 sc}

Row 2: A 6, B 3, A 6, ch 1, turn. {15 sc} [RS]

Row 3: A 15, ch 1, turn. {15 sc}

Row 4: A 5, B 6, A 4, ch 1, turn. {15 sc}

Row 5: A 15, ch 1, turn. {15 sc}

Row 6: A 4, B 6, A 5, ch 1, turn. {15 sc}

Row 7: A 15, ch 1, turn. {15 sc}

Row 8: Sc BLO: C 4, D 7, C 4, ch 1, turn. {15 sc BLO}

Row 9: C 4, D 7, C 4, ch 1, turn. {15 sc}

Row 10: Sk 1st st, C 4, D 5, C 3, C finish with dec last 2 sts, ch 1, turn. {13 sc}

Row 11: Sk 1st st, C 4, D 3, C 3, C finish with dec last 2 sts, ch 1, turn. {11 sc}

Row 12: Sk 1st st, C 8, C finish with dec last 2 sts, ch 1, turn. {9 sc}

Row 13: Sk 1st st, C 6, C finish with dec last 2 sts. {7 sc}

Row 14: Sk 1st st, C 4, C finish with dec last 2 sts. {5 sc}

Finish off and weave in ends on the WS.

Blocking and Assembly

Pin earring to blocking mat. Spray from about 6-10 inches away with fabric stiffening spray, or pour some of the spray liquid into a small cup and paint the liquid on. Once dry, use the jewelry pliers to attach fish hook style earring to top of rounded area, through one of the stitches.

Here you can see the back (left) and the front (right)!

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Popsicle Earrings

I generally prefer chocolate desserts to anything else, but I do like a fruity popsicle in the summertime! As soon as we have a few warm days in Pennsylvania in May my middle son starts asking me for popsicles. He thinks, okay, it’s hot, popsicle time! And you know what, he’s right. People do tend to eat ice cream in the cooler months, but popsicles are for the summer.

I made this an easy, beginner-to-thread-crochet pattern! It’s three flat pieces, seamed together to make a popsicle. You can make this! I used the gorgeous Curio 10 crochet thread from WeCrochet for these earrings. I love how smooth and shiny it is, and the color palette is amazing. You’ll need two colors, preferably one color being yellow for the popsicle stick.

I used a 1.5 mm hook for this pattern, but you could definitely use a larger hook, especially if thread crochet is new to you. You’ll need some fish hook style earring findings and some sort of pliers to attach them to the earring. I also recommend blocking these to give them a sharper look, but they hold the shape pretty well without blocking. I use my trusty Aleene’s stiffening spray, available from most big box craft stores.

I’m happy to provide this pattern free here on my blog! Come back again and again to make them. If you prefer downloadable patterns, the PDF is available in all my pattern shops. During the Summer Earring CAL July 8th-22nd, you can get all the patterns together for a discount, so check that out here.

Okay let’s cool down with an icy treat!

Supplies

  • Size 10 crochet thread in 2 colors as desired, approx. 10 yds color A, 5 yds color B, samples are WeCrochet Curio size 10 color A: Bahama, color B: Canary
  • Size 1.5 mm crochet hook
  • Tapestry needle and scissors
  • Earring findings: 2 fishhook style earrings
  • Fabric stiffener, like Aleene’s Fabric Stiffening Spray, t-pins, and a blocking mat
  • Jewelry pliers or other small pliers

Stitches (US terms)

  • ch = chain
  • sc = single crochet
  • sl st = slip stitch
  • st/sts = stitch/stitches
  • sc3tog = single crochet 3 stitches together
  • beg = beginning
  • prev = previous
  • sk = skip
  • dec = single crochet 2 together

Gauge

12 rows of single crochet with 13 sts = 1 inch square

Personally, I find the smallest hook I can handle for the thread size (for earrings) produces the best, tightly stitched look. As long as the stitches are small enough for the result to look nice, if it is a little bigger or smaller, there isn’t a “fit issue.”

Notes:

  • Pattern is worked in 3 pieces for each earring. (6 pieces total)
  • For the best look, stiffen the earrings. I suggest Aleene’s Fabric Stiffening Spray and t-pins on a blocking mat.
  • Stitch counts are marked in { } at the end of each row.
  • Finished dimensions: 1.25 x 1.5 in inch

Written Instructions

Popsicle (Make 4) with color A:

Row 1: Ch 6, sc in 2nd st from hook and each ch across, ch 1, turn. {5 sc}

Row 2-8: Sc in each st across, ch 1, turn. {5 sc}

Row 9: Dec, sc, dec, ch 1, turn. {3 sc}

Row 10: Sc3tog, fasten off, weave in ends. { 1 sc} Keep scrap ends for stuffing the popsicle.

If you need a little extra help, the PDF has a 2 page photo tutorial that shows each step in making these. You can find it here!

Ravelry
Etsy
LoveCrafts

Popsicle Stick (Make 2) with color B:

Row 1: Ch 7, sc in 2nd st from hook and each st across, fasten off. Do not weave in end.

Place 2 popsicles together, beginning in bottom right corner, single crochet the pieces together as follows:

Sc in first 7, 2 sc in each of next 3 sts, sc in next 7, STOP, stuff the scraps into the popsicle, as well as the popsicle stick, with about 5 sc of the stick sticking out, 3sc in corner, sc, sc through the popsicle stick, sc, 3sc in corner. Fasten off with invisible join to first sc.

Blocking and Assembly

Pin earring to blocking mat. Spray from about 6-10 inches away with fabric stiffening spray, or pour some of the spray liquid into a small cup and paint the liquid on. Here is a great post on stiffening crochet decorations, if you need some alternatives. Once dry, use the jewelry pliers to attach fish hook style earring to top of rounded area, through one of the stitches.

I hope you make a rainbow of bright popsicles to wear all summer!

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First Tulips Bonnet

Bonnets are such a great accessory for those tricky toddlers who pull hats right off! I think they aren’t much more work than making a hat and I think I’ll have to design another bonnet this fall for my toddler. This design was inspired by happy spring tulips. I love those first spring bulbs that emerge year after year. This year I replanted so many bulbs from another flower bed in my yard and they all survived and bloomed beautifully!

Okay let’s make a bonnet! You’ll need some worsted yarn in three colors, with one of them preferably being green for the leaves. You could do any colors that you like for spring! One of my testers made a gorgeous one with dark and light green and it was lovely! It looks more neutral so if you tend towards a neutral palette you can still make it work!

I used a 5.5 mm hook, and I highly suggest you gauge swatch. If you tend to a looser crochet, you’ll need to size down. You need to have a tapestry needle for weaving in ends and scissors and a measuring tape. I hope you love making this pattern! Please don’t forget to share your work with me on Facebook or Instagram, I’d love to see it!

Here you can find the free version of the pattern. It has all the written information of the pattern. The PDF is available on ravelry, Etsy, and Lovecrafts and that includes a sizing chart and photo guide. I also put each size on its own 2 pages so you could just print the size you want instead of all 12 pages.

Supplies

  • CYC 4 worsted yarn: 100-150 yards color A, 50 yards color B, 50 yards color C (sample is Lion Brand Yarn Basic Stitch: A white, B yellow, C green)
  • crochet hook US size I (5.5 mm) or size needed to obtain gauge
  • tapestry sewing needle
  • scissors and measuring tape/gauge ruler

Stitches (US Terms)

ch = chain

st/sts = stitch/stitches

BLO = back loop only

sc = single crochet

dc = double crochet

sl st = slip stitch

reverse sc= reverse single crochet (also called crab stitch)

hdc = half double crochet

inc = two stitches in the same stitch

dc v-st = double crochet, ch 1, double crochet in same stitch

puff = {4 double crochet cluster} (yo, insert hook in st, pull up a loop, yo, pull through 2 loops on hook) 4 times, yo, pull through all loops on hook

Gauge Swatch

4 in by 4 in swatch = 14 stitches in 12 rows of hdc

Notes

  • For inc, use whatever stitch that row calls for, I’ve put it in bold in each row with increases.
  • Stitch counts are marked in [ ] at the end of each row.
  • After fastening off in row 5 of the bonnet section, you will use sl sts to connect the half circle shaped rows to row 5. These sl sts are not to be worked into; they act as the ch 2 to start the new half circle shaped rows.
  • Each size has its own section in the pattern, find the size you want below!

Written Instructions

Size: Infant (0-6 months)

Neckband

Row 1: Ch 6, sc 2nd ch from hook and each st across, turn. [5 sc]

Row 2: Ch 1, sc, sc BLO each st across, turn. [1 sc, 4 sc BLO]

Row 3: Ch 1, sc BLO until last, sc, turn. [4 sc BLO, 1 sc]

Rows 4-28: Repeat rows 2 and 3 respectively.

Turn to the side.

Bonnet Tulip Section

Row 1: Sc the end of 1st row, 1 sc end of each row to last, turn. [28 sc]

Row 2: Do not chain, inc, *sc next 7, inc, sc next 3, inc, sc next 2, inc , sc next 3, inc, sc next 7 inc. [34 sc]

Change to color B

Row 3: Ch 2, dc next 2, sk st, *dc v-st, sk 2 sts, repeat from * until last 5 sts, sk 2 sts, dc next 2, dc last st, turn. [5 dc, 12 dc v st]

Change to color C

Row 4: Ch 2, dc next 2, puff next ch-1 sp * ch 2, puff next ch-1 sp, repeat from * until last 3, ch 1, dc last 3 sts, turn. [5 dc, 9 puff]

Change to color A

Row 5: Sc first 3 sts, sc in ch-1 sp, *sc, 2 sc in ch-2 sp, repeat from * until last puff, sc in ch-1 sp, sc last 3 sts, turn. [34 sc] Fasten off, weave in ends.

Fasten off, weave in ends.

Bonnet Top

Attach yarn in 17th st of prev row. In this portion of pattern, all the sl sts are going into Row 5 above. The 2 sl sts at the end of each row act as the ch 2 to start the row, and you will not work into these.

Row 1: Ch 3, sl st next 2 sts, turn. [3 ch, 2 sl st]

Row 2: Hdc, 3 hdc, hdc, sl st next 2 sts, turn. [5 hdc, 2 sl st]

Row 3: Hdc next 2, 3 hdc, hdc next 2, sl st next 2 sts, turn. [7 hdc, 2 sl st]

Row 4: 2 hdc each st across, sl st next 2 sts, turn. [14 hdc, 2 sl st]

Row 5: *Inc, hdc, hdc, repeat from * twice, then hdc, inc, hdc next 2, inc, sl st next 2 sts, turn. [20 hdc, 2 sl sts]

Row 5: Hdc each st across, sl st next 2 sts, turn. [20 hdc, 2 sl st]

Row 6: Hdc first 5, dc next 10, hdc last 5, sl st next 2 sts, turn. [10 hdc, 10 dc, 2 sl st]

Row 7-10: Repeat row 6

Row 11-15: Hdc first 3, dc next 14, hdc last 3, sl st next 2 sts, do not turn. [6 hdc, 14 dc, 2 sl st]

Row 16: Reverse sc each st across. [20 reverse sc]

Fasten off, weave in ends

Tie (make 2 all sizes)

With color B or C as desired:

Ch 35, sl st 2nd ch from hook and each ch across. [34 sl st]

Attach with 2 sl sts to bottom corner of neckband, one tie on each corner. Fasten off, weave in ends.

Feeling stuck? This is an intermediate pattern. You might need the PDF! Get it here on ravelry!

Size: Baby (6-12 months)

Neckband

Row 1: Ch 6, sc 2nd ch from hook and each st across, turn. [5 sc]

Row 2: Ch 1, sc, sc BLO each st across, turn. [1 sc, 4 sc BLO]

Row 3: Ch 1, sc BLO until last, sc, turn. [4 sc BLO, 1 sc]

Rows 4-36: Repeat rows 2 and 3 respectively.

Turn to the side.

Bonnet Tulip Section

Row 1: Sc the end of 1st row, 1 sc end of each row to last. [36 sc]

Row 2: Do not chain, inc, *sc next 6, inc, sc next 7, inc, sc next 4, inc , sc next 7, inc, sc next 6, inc, turn. [42 sc]

Change to color B

Row 3: Ch 2, dc next 2, sk st, *dc v-st, sk 2 sts, repeat from * until last 5 sts, dc v-st, sk st, dc next 2, dc last st, turn. [5 dc, 12 dc v st]

Change to color C

Row 4: Ch 2, dc next 2, ch 1, puff next ch-1 sp, *ch 2, puff next ch-1 sp, repeat from * until last 4 sts, ch 1, dc next 2, dc last st, turn. [5 dc, 12 puff]

Change to color A

Row 5: Sc first 3 sts, sc in ch-1 sp, *sc, 2 sc in ch-2 sp, repeat from * until last puff, sc in ch-1 sp, sc last 3 sts, turn. [42 sc]

Fasten off, weave in ends.

Bonnet Top

Attach yarn in 21st st of prev row. In this portion of pattern, all the sl sts are going into Row 5 above. The 2 sl sts at the end of each row act as the ch 2 to start the row, and you will not work into these.

Row 1: Ch 3, sl st next 2 sts, turn. [3 ch, 2 sl st]

Row 2: Hdc, 3 hdc same st, hdc, sl st next 2 sts, turn. [5 hdc, 2 sl st]

Row 3: Inc, hdc, inc, hdc, inc, sl st next 2 sts, turn. [8 hdc, 2 sl st]

Row 4: Inc, hdc, inc, hdc, hdc, inc, hdc, inc, sl st next 2 sts, turn. [12 hdc, 2 sl st]

Row 5: *Inc, hdc, hdc, repeat from *; **hdc, hdc, inc, repeat from **, sl st next 2 sts, turn. [16 hdc, 2 sl st]

Row 6: Inc, hdc next 3, inc, hdc, hdc, inc, inc, hdc, hdc, inc, hdc next 3, inc, sl st next 2 sts, turn. [22 hdc, 2 sl st]

Row 7: Hdc each st across, sl st next 2 sts, turn. [22 hdc, 2 sl st]

Rows 8-10: Hdc first 4, dc next 14, hdc last 4, sl st next 2 sts, turn. [8 hdc, 14 dc, 2 sl st]

Row 11-13: Repeat row 7

Row 14-18: Hdc first 3, dc next 16, hdc last 3, sl st next 2 sts. Do not turn. [6 hdc, 16 dc, 2 sl st]

Row 19: Reverse sc each st across. [22 reverse sc]

Fasten off, weave in ends.

Tie (make 2 all sizes)

With color B or C as desired:

Ch 35, sl st 2nd ch from hook and each ch across. [34 sl st]

Attach with 2 sl sts to bottom corner of neckband, one tie on each corner. Fasten off, weave in ends.

Size: Toddler (1-4 yrs)

Neckband

Row 1: Ch 6, sc 2nd ch from hook and each st across, turn. [5 sc]

Row 2: Ch 1, sc, sc BLO each st across, turn. [1 sc, 4 sc BLO]

Row 3: Ch 1, sc BLO until last, sc, turn. [4 sc BLO, 1 sc]

Rows 4-40: Repeat rows 2 and 3 respectively.

Turn to the side.

Bonnet Tulip Section

Row 1: Sc the end of 1st row, 1 sc end of each row to last, turn. [40 sc]

Row 2: Do not chain, inc, *sc next 7, inc, sc next 7, inc, sc next 3, inc, sc next 3, inc, sc next 7, inc, sc next 7, inc. [48 sc]

Change to color B

Row 3: Ch 2, dc next 2, sk st, *dc v-st, sk 2 sts, repeat from * until last 5 sts, dc v-st, sk st, dc next 2, dc last st, turn. [5 dc, 14 dc v st]

Change to color C

Row 4: Ch 2, dc next 2, ch 1, puff next ch-1 sp, *ch 2, puff next ch-1 sp, repeat from * until last 4 sts, ch 1, dc next 2, dc last st, turn. [5 dc, 14 puff, 28 ch]

Change to color A

Row 5: Sc first 3 sts, sc in ch-1 sp, *sc, 2 sc in ch-2 sp, repeat from * until last puff, sc in ch-1 sp, sc last 3 sts, turn. [48 sc]

Fasten off, weave in ends.

Bonnet Top

Attach yarn in 24th st of prev row. In this portion of pattern, all the sl sts are going into Row 5 above. The 2 sl sts at the end of each row act as the ch 2 to start the row, and you will not work into these.

Row 1: Ch 3, sl st next 2 sts, turn. [3 ch, 2 sl st]

Row 2: Hdc, 3 hdc, hdc, sl st next 2 sts, turn. [5 hdc, 2 sl st]

Row 3: Inc, hdc, inc, hdc, inc 2, sl st next 2 sts, turn. [8 hdc, 2 sl st]

Row 4: 2 hdc each st across, sl st next 2 sts, turn. [16 hdc, 2 sl st]

Row 5: Inc, hdc, hdc, hdc, inc, hdc, hdc, inc, inc, hdc, hdc, inc, hdc, hdc, hdc, inc, sl st next 2 sts of neckband, turn. [22 hdc, 2 sl st]

Row 6: *Inc, hdc, hdc repeat from * until last, inc last st, sl st next 2 sts, turn. [28 hdc, 2 sl st]

Row 7: Hdc each st across, sl st next 2 sts, turn. [28 hdc, 2 sl st]

Row 8: Repeat row 7. [28 hdc, 2 sl st]

Row 9: Hdc first 9, dc next 10, hdc last 9, sl st next 2 sts, turn. [18 hdc, 10 dc, 2 sl st]

Row 10-14: Repeat row 9. [18 hdc, 10 dc, 2 sl st]

Row 15-17: Repeat row 7. [28 hdc, 2 sl st]

Row 18-21: Hdc first 3, dc next 22, hdc last 3, sl st next 2 sts, do not turn. [6 hdc, 22 dc, 2 sl st]

Row 22: Reverse sc each st across. [28 reverse sc]

Fasten off, weave in ends.

Tie (make 2 all sizes)

With color B or C as desired:

Ch 35, sl st 2nd ch from hook and each ch across. [34 sl st]

Attach with 2 sl sts to bottom corner of neckband, one tie on each corner. Fasten off, weave in ends.

Size: Child (4-10 yrs)

Neckband

Row 1: Ch 8, sc 2nd ch from hook and each st across, turn. [7 sc]

Row 2: Ch 1, sc, sc BLO each st across, turn. [1 sc, 6 sc BLO]

Row 3: Ch 1, sc BLO until last, sc, turn. [6 sc BLO, 1 sc]

Rows 4-44: Repeat rows 2 and 3 respectively.

Turn to the side.

Bonnet Tulip Section

Row 1: Sc the end of 1st row, 1 sc end of each row to last, turn. [44 sc]

Row 2: Do not chain, inc, *sc next 7, inc, sc next 7, inc, sc next 4, inc, sc next 5, inc, sc next 7, inc, sc next 7, inc. [51 sc]

Change to color B

Row 3: Ch 2, dc next 2, sk st, *dc v-st, sk 2 sts, repeat from * until last 5 sts, dc v-st, sk st, dc next 2, dc last st, turn. [5 dc, 15 dc v-st]

Change to color C

Row 4: Ch 2, dc next 2, ch 1, puff next ch-1 sp, *ch 2, puff next ch-1 sp, repeat from * until last 4 sts, ch 1, dc next 2, dc last st, turn. [5 dc, 15 puff]

Change to color A

Row 5: Sc first 3 sts, sc in ch-1 sp, *sc, 2 sc in ch-2 sp, repeat from * until last puff, sc in ch-1 sp, sc last 3 sts, turn. [51 sc]

Fasten off, weave in ends.

Bonnet Top

Attach yarn in 25th st of prev row. In this portion of pattern, all the sl sts are going into Row 5 above. The 2 sl sts at the end of each row act as the ch 2 to start the row, and you will not work into these.

Row 1: Ch 3, sl st next 2 sts, turn. [3 ch, 2 sl st]

Row 2: Hdc, 3 hdc, hdc, sl st next 2 sts, turn. [5 hdc, 2 sl st]

Row 3: Hdc next 2, 3 hdc, hdc next 2, sl st next 2 sts, turn. [7 hdc, 2 sl st]

Row 4: 2 hdc each st across, sl st next 2 sts, turn. [14 hdc, 2 sl st]

Row 5: *Inc, hdc, hdc, repeat from *, inc, repeat from * 2 times, inc, sl st next 2 sts, turn. [20 hdc, 2 sl st]

Row 6: *Inc, hdc, repeat from * 2 times hdc, inc, hdc, inc, inc, hdc, inc, hdc, **hdc, inc, repeat from ** 2 times, sl st next 2 sts, turn. [30 hdc, 2 sl st]

Row 7: *Inc, hdc next 4, inc, hdc next 5, inc, hdc next 6, hdc next 5, inc, hdc next 4, inc, sl st next 2 sts, turn. [36 hdc, 2 sl st]

Row 8: Hdc each st across, sl st next 2 sts, turn. [36 hdc, 2 sl st]

Row 9: Repeat row 8 [36 hdc, 2 sl st]

Row 10: Hdc first 10, dc next 16, hdc last 10, sl st next 2 sts, turn. [16 dc, 20 hdc, 2 sl st]

Row 11-15: Repeat row 10 [20 hdc, 16 dc, 2 sl st]

Row 16-18: Repeat row 8 [36 hdc, 2 sl st]

Row 19-24: Hdc first 5, dc next 30, hdc last 5, sl st next 2 sts, turn. [12 hdc, 24 dc, 2 sl st]

Row 25: Reverse sc each st across. [36 reverse sc]

Fasten off, weave in ends.

Tie (make 2 all sizes)

With color B or C as desired

Ch 35, sl st 2nd ch from hook and each ch across. [34 sl st]

Attach with 2 sl sts to bottom corner of neckband, one tie on each corner. Fasten off, weave in ends.

Thank you so much!

I hope you loved this pattern! Please share it with me on social media! And reach out to me there if you have any trouble with the pattern as well, I’m happy to help!

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Crochet Hat and Scarf Improvisation Sizing Guide

It’s so great to follow a pattern for crocheting. It takes the guesswork away and it’s less challenging than improvising; however, I LOVE to improvise. Just sitting with the yarn and fiddling around with stitches until I find something I like is so enjoyable. Then, I want to turn it into something! Blankets and dishcloths can pretty much be any size and still be usable, but you can’t just sit down to crochet a hat without some guidelines! I find myself googling over and over again: hat size crochet guide. Which is just plain silly when I have a computer, printer, and laminator!

I’ve created this size guide that you can print, cut, and laminate. If you don’t have a laminator, I suggest you cut them out, glue them together so each chart is on its own side, and put a paper clip on it. Then you can clip it to whatever pattern notes or notebook you like to use! Keep it in your craft supplies and you’ll never need to search out these sizes again. I even strayed from my typical muted colors to make it easier to find in the bottom of your WIP bag!

Grab the PDF here!

Some more suggestions for improvising

In all honesty, I don’t typically block hats. If you are using nice wool yarn for your hat, you may want to block it, in which case you should account for that little bit of extra space you’ll gain in the hat from blocking. For scarves, I do like to block them for a nice drape, so again, think about that when you are improvising a pattern! Commercial yarn skeins often have a little guide on them that tells you how many skeins you need to make a hat, scarf, and sweater. Don’t neglect to use that to help with your creation.

When I’m improvising hats for my own family, I often will make the band first and just keep making them come to me so I can wrap it around their head, haha. Then I go from there to make the rest of the hat. Using real measurements of the person who is going to wear it is always your best bet! (Sidenote: moms of young kids, HOW do you keep tape measures around? Mine keep becoming mysteriously broken………)

The very first project I ever made was actually a scarf! I made it for my mom in 2011. I’m sure there were all kinds of tutorials and patterns on the internet, but for whatever reason I didn’t use one?! It was wonky but I was so proud! I do like to follow patterns, but improvising and designing are just more fun to me! To improvise a scarf, I suggest that you actually write down the stitch count at the beginning. It always seems to me that somehow I added or subtracted a stitch somewhere, and if I don’t know what stitch count I actually started with, it’s much harder to fix.

Grab your favorite stitch book! The one I use the most is called The Crochet Stitch Bible by Betty Barnden. My mom has a good one called The Crochet Stitch Dictionary by Sarah Hazell. These are so useful for providing not only the stitch ideas but they include the stitch multiples, so its much easier to improvise using those versus a YouTube tutorial that just shows how to do the actual stitch.

The most important tip for improvising, of course, is to have FUN. Let yourself enjoy the stitches and if you have to frog, that’s okay. Think of it like an athlete’s training. The crochet version of lifting weights and running on the treadmill!

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Christmas Wreath Earrings

The most wonderful time of the year is here and you need some festive earrings! These Christmas Wreath Earrings are simple and versatile. Make them in your preferred traditions Christmas colors, or go wild with some lime green and hot pink. They could be great gifts or even market items! Use your favorite 1.5 mm hook, size 10 thread, earring findings, glue, and stiffening spray to make these earrings.

I love to offer free versions of my patterns here on the blog. I think it’s an awesome way to spread crochet knowledge. If you want to use the free version, great! Enjoy! The PDF does include photo tutorials that aren’t here on the blog and of course being printable makes it easier. I often use a free pattern from a blog and then when I know OOOO I’m making more of these, I go back and buy the PDF.

ravelry
LoveCrafts
Etsy

Supplies

  • Size 10 crochet thread, preferably red and green, approx 10 yards each, samples are Aunt Lydia’s Crochet Thread size 10 color A: Forest Green, color B: Cardinal Red and color A: Mint Green, color B: Burgundy
  • Size 1.5 mm crochet hook
  • Two 10mm or 25 mm metal jewelry hoops
  • Tapestry needle and scissors
  • Earring findings: 2 fishhook style earrings or 2 flat stud earring
  • Fabric stiffener, like Aleene’s Fabric Stiffening Spray, t-pins, and a blocking mat
  • Optional: Quick bond glue (cyanoacrylate) like Krazy Glue/Super Glue/Gorilla Glue OR E600 jewelry glue

Stitches (US Terms)

  • ch = chain
  • sc = single crochet
  • sl st = slip stitch
  • st/sts = stitch/stitches
  • dc = double crochet
  • hdc = half double crochet
  • beg = beginning

Gauge

Gauge is not really necessary for this pattern. Personally, I find the smallest hook I can handle for the thread size (for earrings) produces the best, tightly stitched look. If you desire to gauge swatch: use double crochet in 5 rows with 11 sts to equal a 1 inch square.

Notes

  • Pattern is worked in several pieces and glued or sewn together.
  • For the best look, stiffen the earrings. I use Aleene’s Fabric Stiffening Spray and t-pins on a blocking mat.
  • Two hoop sizes are given and are noted in the pattern as 10mm (25mm) however, use any hoop size for this pattern: Sc an even number around the hoop.
  • If you are going to sew the bow to the wreath instead of using glue, do not cut the remaining end off the bow and use it to sew onto the wreath before blocking.
  • Stitch counts are marked in { } at the end of each row/round with ( ) noting the sizes.
  • Finished dimensions: 10 mm: 1 inch diameter, 25 mm: 2 inch diameter

Written Instructions

Wreaths with color A: (make 2)

Round 1: Sc 24 (58) around 10 (25) mm hoop, sl st to join. {24 (58) sc}

Round 2: Ch 1, sc , *2 dc, sc , repeat from * around, 2 dc last st, sl st to beg sc, fasten off, weave in ends. {12 (29) sc, 24 (58) dc}

Bows with color B (make 2)

Row 1: Ch 10, dc 3rd ch from hook, dc, hdc, sl st next 2 sts, hdc, dc, dc, ch 2, sl st to beg-ch. Fasten off, weave in ends. {4 dc, 2 hdc, 2 sl st}

Ribbons with color B (make 2)

Row 1: Ch 23, sl st 2nd ch from hook and each remaining ch across, fasten off. Weave in ends. {22 sl st}

Blocking and Assembly

Tie Ribbon tightly around middle of Bow. Pin assembled Bow to the blocking mat to desired shape. Pin Wreath to blocking mat. Spray from about 6-10 inches away with fabric stiffening spray, or pour some of the spray liquid into a small cup and paint the liquid on. Once dry, glue the Bow onto the Wreath and glue to the stud earring, or attach fish hook style earring to top of Wreath.

Christmas Wreath Earrings

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Quick Crochet Projects for Gifting

You do NOT have to spend all of your Christmas season working on your handmade gifts! Let’s find some amazing projects that will take much less time than a blanket or shawl and be just as appreciated!

Crochet Earrings

Okay you might know I love a good crochet earring!!!! The first ones I ever made were for my mom a few years ago. They are SO fun to make, even though they require a couple extra steps to assemble.

I have a few free crochet earring patterns right here on the blog that you can choose from!

Flower Cluster Stud Earrings
Heart Tassel Earrings
Flower of the Sun Earrings

There are other awesome crochet earring designers, whom I like to call Earring Queens. My bestie is Chalia! She has so many beautiful and varied crochet earring patterns to choose from in her Etsy shop, Chalia’s Craft. I can’t imagine looking through her shop and not finding a pattern you like!

SEKHandmade also has some cool earring patterns. Sarah has a variety of crochet jewelry patterns like necklaces and bracelets. She is an amazing crochet teacher, so if it’s your first time working with this type of pattern, I recommend you start here!

Amber at Bliss This by Amber is the OG Earring Queen. Her patterns are well written and easy to follow. Many of hers are floral and some are seasonal, her Noche Buena is one on my To Make List!

Ashley at Wish Upon A Hook has some lovely crochet earring patterns as well! Her Gloriana Earrings: I swear I’ve made like 10 pairs. They are SO fast, pretty, and delicate. Amazing for gifting!

Bookmarks!

Teal Dragonfly Creations is an actual local yarn shop, but the owner, Ruthie also designs patterns! I’ve made her earrings before, and I was going to link to them in the earring section, but WAIT a second because she has more than 10 beautiful bookmark patterns! They would be a great quick gift!

Hooks, Books, and Wanderlust has a great blog post with 20 bookmark patterns!

Dishcloths

Dishcloths can be a bit tricky because if you aren’t used to working with the stiff, cotton yarn, they aren’t as quick to make as you might think! Look for one with an easy, repeating pattern to make it quickly. This one from Mama in A Stitch is great!

I always make these for my mother-in-law for Christmas. I just finished this one for her this year: Fir Tree Dishcloth by Hooks, Books, and Wanderlust. It looks really cute for Christmas!

Baskets

Mama in A Stitch has a post featuring 15 FREE basket patterns. It includes small, simple ones as well as some more complex patterns like hanging baskets.

Ornaments

I’ve always enjoyed making things, and making ornaments at Christmas is so lovely. There are so many ornament patterns available! I even have one: The Double Christmas Bauble. You don’t even need any of those plastic ornament inserts to make them and you get four designs!

I’ve also enjoyed making ornaments by Spin a Yarn Crochet! She has so many cute designs, you could make it really personal for whomever you are gifting.

Alright now, GO! Pick something you’ll think they’ll love, and I bet you can get it done in a day or two!

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Minimalist Headband

I had a WAY better title picked out for this headband, but unfortunately, ravelry wasn’t understanding that it was a common phrase and not a keyword. Technology, ugh! So Minimalist Headband is the pseudonym for the Long Hair, Don’t Care Headband. Cute, right? This pattern is designed to wear easily under your hair, keeping your ears warm, without adding a bunch of bulk under there.

Minimalist as a title fits, too. It’s an easy repeat, and worked flat with one seam, so it is a pretty minimal pattern! I think it looks very stylish in any of the Lion Brand Yarn Wool Ease Thick and Quick colors. I made three samples with different yarns, a variegated blue called River Run, a deep aqua called Succulent, and a sparkly one! I have to tell you that the sparkle was really fun. I don’t usually use yarn with tinsel in it, but because this yarn is so thick, it’s not hard to work with.

Winter Sets Blog Hop

Let’s get that PDF on ravelry!

Join in the fun of this beautiful Winter Sets Blog Hop hosted by Sandra Stitches! You can get the Minimalist Headband and the new matching Minimalist Mitts together! Hit the button below to head to the blog post for a free coupon code to use on ravelry!

Okay, now scroll down to the ravelry download button to use the code! Both the Minimalist Mitts pattern and the headband pattern files are in each ravelry listing, so you can download them both with either pattern.

Supplies

  • 100 yards super bulky (CYC 6) yarn, sample is Lion Brand Yarn Wool Ease Thick-n-Quick
  • crochet hook US size N (9 mm) or size needed to obtain gauge
  • tapestry sewing needle
  • scissors and measuring tape

Stitches (US Terms)

ch = chain

sc = single crochet

st/sts = stitch/stitches

BLO = back loop only

hdc = half double crochet

sl st = slip stitch

sc2tog = single crochet two stitches together

hdc in the 3rd loop = half double crochet in the 3rd loop on the working side

Notes:

  • Finished dimensions: child: 18 in, teen/adult sm: 20 in, adult med: 21 in, adult lg: 22 in around.
  • Sizes are denoted by parentheses: child (teen/adult sm, adult med, adult lg.)
  • Stitch counts are marked at the end of each row in {brackets}.
  • Pattern is worked flat and seamed at the end.

Gauge Swatch

4 in by 4 in swatch

10 sts in 8 rows of the pattern repeat which is:

*hdc, hdc in the third loop, repeat from * across

Written Instructions

Child (teen/adult sm, adult med, adult lg)

Row 1: Ch 32 (38, 40, 44) hdc second st from hook and each st across, ch 1, turn. {31 (37, 39, 43) hdc}

Row 2: Hdc first st,* hdc in the 3rd loop next st, hdc next st, repeat from * to end of row, ch 1, turn. {16 (19, 20, 22) hdc, 15 ( 18, 19, 21) hdc in the 3rd loop}

Rows 3-6: Repeat row 2.Child/teen skip to row 8.

Adult Med/Lg ONLY: Row 7: Repeat row 2.

Row 8: Hdc each st across. {31 (37, 39, 43) hdc} Do not fasten off.

Next make the band that goes behind the head.

Row 1: Ch 1, sc evenly 9 in the end of rows previously made, ch 1, turn. {9 sc}

Row 2: Sc2tog BLO, sc BLO next 5, sc2tog BLO, ch 1, turn. {2 sc2tog BLO, 5 sc BLO}

Row 3: Sc2tog BLO, sc BLO next 3, sc2tog BLO, ch 1, turn. {2 sc2tog BLO, 3 sc BLO}

Row 4-10: Sc BLO each st across, ch 1, turn. {5 sc BLO}

Row 11: 2 sc BLO, sc BLO each st until last, 2 sc BLO last st, ch 1, turn. {7 sc BLO}

Row 12: 2 sc BLO, sc BLO each st until last, 2 sc BLO last st, ch 1, turn. {9 sc BLO}

Sl st BLO evenly across the other edge of headband (9 sl st BLO). Fasten off, weave in ends.

Don’t forget there is a beautiful new chunky fingerless mittens pattern that matches this headband! It’s available free on the blog right here. Oh and the mittens pattern is QUICK! I made a pair in about an hour!

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Crochet Patterns for Saint Costumes

My most popular blog post the last few years has been my Saint Costume Guide! Since I typically blog about crochet patterns now, I decided to create a new guide for crochet costume pieces for saints. Get ready to dive into your stash to make some fun patterns to add to your child’s saint costume!

First up, we have an angel wings pattern! Use these for your archangel costumes. Some bulky weight yarn will have you whipping these up in a few days.

Next, make a comfortable crown they’ll wear all day dressing as a royal saint. Think St. Elizabeth of Hungary, Mary, Queen of Heaven, Saint Margaret of Scotland, Saint Jadwiga of Poland, Saint Adelaide, Saint Dymphna, St. Louis IX of France, St. Edward the Confessor, St. Stephen I of Hungary, St. Ladislaus I of Hungary. (Hm, lots of Holy Hungarians!)

Thinking about a St. George costume? One of my personal favorites. Make a knight’s helmet for him! Several other saints could be represented with a soldier’s helmet, like St. Sebastian or St. Joan of Arc.

Okay, so you have the basics down for the costume, like a robe or head covering. Now it’s time to really personalize that costume. Google the saint your kiddo wants to represent and look through the images. What items pop up again and again in the iconography? A few years ago my son wanted to be St. David of Wales. He is often depicted carrying a leek, so we had him take a play food celery to represent that, but if one of my boys were picking that saint again, I’d be making a crochet leek for them instead! Think crochet roses for St. Therese, the Little Flower, a snake or shamrock for St. Patrick, a lamb for St. Agnes, a basket for St. Martha, a saw for St. Simon, you get the picture.

You could definitely crochet some other costume pieces if you don’t already have them in your child’s wardrobe, like a an apron for St. Zita or a shawl for St. Maria Goretti. I’m certain you could customize some crochet dress patterns, too, for representing whichever saints you wish!

And lastly if your saint was a Pope or Bishop (and wore one of these head coverings,) go snag my totally free Papal Mitre crochet pattern! You can use it free on the blog or download it free on ravelry!

Can you tell he was THRILLED to be taking this photo? Oh well.

I hope this helped to feel confident in creating some costume pieces that will work well for your family this All Saints’ Day!

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Papal Mitre Crochet Pattern

I tried so hard to get myself together this week but I had the FLUUUUUUUU and so here we are late on Saturday night with only a few days until All Saints’ Day. But I know there are some other last minute mamas out there like me who can whip this up before dropping their kiddo at school on Wednesday in their saint costume so here ya go!

I have the full pattern below, AND YOU CAN DOWNLOAD IT FREE at the bottom of this page. So if it’s easier on you to check out this pattern right here, right now, on your phone, go for it, but for my easily distracted people who need the PDF, it’s totally free, go get it, print it out, and enjoy.

Supplies

  • 100 yards CYC 4 worsted yarn, preferably white, held double with 100 yards CYC 4 worsted cotton yarn (for stiffness) 25 yards bulky CYC 5 yarn in golden color (Sample is Lily Sugar N Cream White, Lion Brand Basic Stitch white, and Lion Brand Color Made Easy)
  • crochet hook US size J (6 mm) or size needed to obtain gauge
  • tapestry sewing needle
  • scissors and measuring tape/gauge ruler
  • Aleene’s fabric stiffening spray (optional)

Stitches (US terms)

  • ch = chain stitch
  • st/sts = stitch/stitches
  • BLO = back loop only
  • sc = single crochet
  • sl st = slip stitch

Gauge

2 in by 2 in swatch = 7 stitches in 7 rows of sc

Row 1: Ch 11, sc 2nd st from hook and each across, ch 1, turn. [10 sc]

Row 2: Sc each st across, ch 1, turn. [10sc]

Repeat row 2 six more times.

Notes

  • SIZING: this pattern is sized for a child, but you could make in any size by making the band larger or smaller to fit the head circumference as follows: baby 15 inches, toddler 16 inches, child 18 inches, teen 19 inches, medium 20 inches, large 21 inches
  • Pattern is worked flat, then sewn together.
  • Pattern is written with a gold stripe (Saint Pope John Paul II is often shown with this color mitre) but you can change that to suit your chosen papal saint.
  • As you make the stripe, measure it next to your mitre top and add/subtract rows as necessary to line up correctly with the top and bottom.
  • This pattern calls for yarns held together: crochet with two strands of different yarns held together as you work. It creates a stiff fabric to make the mitre top stand up. I think if you have a bulky or super bulky white yarn and use that with a size J hook, you can probably get the required stiffness. Some of the yarns used in the sample are discontinued, clearly I used stash scrap yarn for this project! If you have a big stash, I bet you can cobble something together that works!
  • Optional: spray the top with some fabric stiffening spray and shape as desired.

Written Instructions

Mitre Top:

Row 1: Ch 23, sc 2nd ch from hook and each st across, ch 1, turn. [22 sc]

Row 2: Sc each st across, ch 1, turn. [22 sc]

Row 3: 2 sc first st, sc each st across until last, 2 sc last st, ch 1, turn. [24 sc]

Rows 4-7: Sc each st across, ch 1, turn. [24 sc]

Row 8: Sc2tog, sc each st across until last 2 sts, sc2tog, ch 1, turn. [20 sc, 2 dec]

Row 9: Sc each st across, ch 1, turn. [22 sc]

Rows 10-24: Repeat rows 8 and 9 respectively. [stitch count will decrease by 2 after each 2 row repeat]

Row 25: Sc2tog, sc2tog, fasten off. [2 sc2tog]

Brim:

Row 1: Ch 7, sc 2 second ch from hook and each st, ch 1, turn. [6 sc]

Row 2: Sc BLO each st, ch 1, turn. [6 sc BLO]

Rows 3-59: Repeat row 2, sl st row 59 to row 1, fasten off, weave in ends.

Stripe:

Row 1: Ch 5, sc 2nd ch from hook and each st across, ch 1, turn. [4 sc]

Row 2: Sc each st across, ch 1, turn. [4 sc]

Rows 3- 27: Repeat row 2, fasten off, use ends to sew to mitre top.

After attaching the gold stripe to the mitre top, sew the pieces together. Sew the brim to the mitre top along the bottom edge of the mitre top and the top edge of the brim.

Download the free Papal Mitre Crochet Pattern PDF

Papal Mitre Crochet PatternDownload

You can also download to your ravelry account if you want to have it in your library! It’s completely free there as well.

Want more Catholic Saint Costume crochet patterns?

Introducing the Marian Crown! This crown pattern is a simple design with 2 variations to add stars or flowers. It’s the perfect addition to any Mary costume or a saint costume for any other royal saint!

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