Innholdsfortegnelse for May 2018 i Love Crochet

Who’s ready for summer? Yes, we are too. We are in the mood for makes in brighter yarn, that spell the beginning of the new season, and the end of cold, dark days… So, this issue has entirely this in mind. We have a gorgeous, little girls’ sunhat over on page 35. We have a pretty, sweetie-coloured shrug, perfect for transitional weather, on page 28. And over on page 64, we have a stunning beach dress, great for slinging in a bag and hitting the seaside with. Elsewhere, we have adorable baby sandals (p.44), a beautiful sunflower canvas (p.71) and of course, there’s our incredibly sweet cover star, our amigurumi gnome perched on a toadstool. Bring on sunny, happy days! Enjoy! PS. The next issue of Love Crochet is on…

Top tip Make sure your tension is tight so that the stuffing doesn’t show through Decorative gnomes aren’t just for the garden – now you can enjoy them indoors too, by hooking this sweet amigurumi version! Perched atop a little toadstool, there are plenty of things to love about this cheery fellow, from his cute little boots to his bushy white beard. If you can bear to part with him, he’ll make a thoughtful gift for a green-fingered friend. You will need ■ Rico Design Ricorumi DK, 1 ball each in: Beige (054) – Yarn A Off-white (002) – Yarn B Red (028) – Yarn C Blue (034) – Yarn D Green (047) – Yarn E Brown (057) – Yarn F ■ 3mm (UK 11) hook ■ Sewing needle and…

Top tip Mix and match squares of different colours for a more vibrant finish Top Tip Measure the foundation chain of the back so it fits the cushion pad before starting. Change your hook size if needed It’s amazing what you can create with a simple crochet square, and here is a great example from Liz Ward – a stunning design inspired by the shapes and shades of Morocco. Liz’s easy square motif is pieced together to make a fresh, summery cushion. This light blue shade is a lovely choice for the season, with a definite Moroccan feel to it, but feel free to choose one of the other beautiful colours in this range. You will need ■ James C Brett Aztec Aran in Light Blue (AL19) x 2 balls…

Top tip Bamboo yarn is prone to splitting, so knit slowly and try using blunt-ended needles There’ll be plenty of oohs and aahs when your little girl steps out in this super-sweet floral hat, which is worked in Baby Bamboo yarn form Sirdar. This yarn has excellent stitch definition and drape, perfectly highlighting the gorgeous detail in the lacy shell pattern and softly frilled brim. We just love the choice of bamboo for this adorable sunhat – not only is it soft, breathable and cool, it even has ultra violet-protective properties, helping to protect little heads on hot summer days. You will need ■ Sirdar Snuggy Baby Bamboo DK, 2 balls in Cream ■ A few mtrs each in Rinky Dinky Pink, Lula and Limey for flowers and leaves ■…

Does the name Sara Sinaguglia ring any bells? Maybe because she’s been featured in our sister mag Mollie Makes – her crocheted apple cosies appeared in the very first issue in 2011! Yet Sara had never even picked up a crochet hook until she was in her thirties. “My mother encouraged me to join the Wool Workshop in our local village. Under the guidance of Lena, who can only be described as a grande-dame of crochet, I gradually mastered the art. That was over four years ago now and I haven’t stopped since! I absolutely love it.” Once she’d cracked the basic stitches, Sara soon realised just how adaptable crochet can be. “I just pick up my hook and create – crochet is brilliant if you have good spatial understanding…

Add some retro festival fashion to your summer wardobe, with a boho-style bag that’s straight from the 60s with its classic tassel and extra-long fringing! We’ve used Rowan’s Chenille cotton yarn, which is nice and strong – ideal for a bag – and also brings those lovely textured crochet stitches to life. Worked in a soft caramel colour that goes with everything, it’s sure to become your go-to accessory – perfect for keeping essentials close by as you enjoy those lazy, hazy summer days… You will need ■ Rowan Chenille DK, 4 balls in Caramel (752) ■ 4mm (US G/6) hook ■ 6mm (US J/10) hook Measurements ■ Bag measures 30x20cm (11¾x7¾in) without fringing and strap. Strap length can be adjusted to suit. Tension ■ 14 htr and 10 rows…

Top tip Made from multiple granny squares, this is a perfect on-the-go project This one-size garment is designed to have a loose fit and can be worn comfortably by sizes 10-16. We’re huge fans of the bright stripes and bold, tactile blossoms that make this top stand out from the crowd, not to mention the chic bateau neckline, highlighted with a dc trim that matches the orange stripes. It’s worked in cotton DK using basic stitches, making it manageable for both crochet beginners and garment newbies. Team yours with a favourite pair of jeans for a cool, casual look. You will need ■ Rico Essentials Cotton DK, 10 balls in White (80) – Yarn A 6 balls in Medium Blue (34) – Yarn B 2 balls in Pumpkin (87) –…

Top tip Adapt these patterns to make bigger or smaller frames to suit your pictures! Give precious family photos or postcards a retro finish, with this set of sweet photo frames. The frames themselves are cleverly created from lightweight plastic or card, and the lacy crochet is worked over the top in rounds of vibrant colour. A great idea for a display in a child’s room – and once you’ve completed one, you’ll want to make the whole set! You will need ■ Knit Picks Palette 4ply, 1 ball each in Rouge, Fuchsia and Sky ■ 3mm (US C/2 or D/3) hook ■ Cardboard or lightweight plastic (transparent file folders are ideal) Measurements ■ Oval Frame: 12x15cm (4¾x6in) Round Frame: 15cm (6in) diameter Square Frame: 15cm (6in) square Tension ■…

Surface slip stitches are an easy way to add finesse to a plain piece. Take this stripy lampshade for example – the lampshade is hooked in half trebles in a cream colour and then slip stitches are worked through the finished lampshade in a rainbow of pretty colours. So simple, so stylish! You will need ■ Rooster Almerino DK, 2 balls in Cornish (201) 1 ball each in: Brighton Rock (211) Pier (216) Beach (217) Starfish (216) ■ 4mm (US G/6) hook Measurements ■ 74cm (29in) circumference at base, 25cm (9¾in) circumference at top, 20cm (7¾in) high Tension ■ 5 sts and 2 rows to 3cm over half treble crochet using a 4mm hook Abbreviations ■ For standard abbreviations see page 90 About this yarn Rooster Almerino DK 50% baby…

Top tip Cotton yarn tends to slip, so choose a crochet hook with a matt finish for a bit of grip Give your home a retro revival with this 70s-style cushion! We love the bold colour choices from designer, Hannah Cross, who says: “My pinwheel cushion was such a blast to make. I’ve used hardwearing DROPS Paris, which is perfect for homewares. It comes in 49 yummy colours and even has some recycled versions which I’m really keen to give a try.” You will need ■ DROPS Paris, 2 balls each in: Off White (17) – Yarn A Vanilla (35) – Yarn B Dusty Orange (45) – Yarn C Rust (46) – Yarn D Brown (44) – Yarn E ■ 6mm (US J/10) hook ■ Round cushion pad, 30cm (12in)…

Dreaming of warmer weather and picnics in the sun? Let's hope so, but there's no guarantee in our wonderful British Isles! Crocheting for the summer is a great way to lift your spirits and there are masses of patterns to choose from and lots of new summery yarns, too. Spend an afternoon thinking about your holiday or even spending a bank holiday (it doesn't always rain on a bank holiday!) in the garden. Then, think about what you want to crochet to make the summer better. If you've thought of a bikini, chuck that idea out – the same goes for the deckchair seat. The bikini will be see-through, the deckchair seat will stretch, and both will end up with saggy bottoms! When you think of summer, picnics always come…

Top tip Use these flowers to adorn other accessories, too, such as bags and brooches Summer brings with it lots of opportunities to dress up and dazzle, and Liz Ward’s gorgeous necklace will instantly add a glamorous touch to your outfit. From weddings to garden parties, this necklace is the perfect accessory – pair it with a simple shift dress and let the beautiful array of blue blooms be the stars of the show. Worked in glossy cotton and embellished with blue crystal beads, they’re guaranteed to help you shine. You will need ■ Rico Essentials Cotton DK, 1 ball each in: Aquamarine (31) Dark Teal (40) Pigeon Blue (35) Alga (73) ■ 3mm (UK 11) crochet hook ■ Blue felt ■ Blue crystal beads ■ Crystal button Measurements ■…

Top tip To make a longer-length top, work additional rounds of the lower edge pattern Welcome spring with this pretty, lightweight shrug that layers beautifully over tops and dresses to add a touch of blossom to any outfit. It’s a quick, fun make with an easy-to-remember two-row pattern repeat and an interesting construction that makes it simple to adjust the size for a perfect fit. What’s more, we’ve included sizes from toddler right up to adult, so everyone can enjoy wearing this gorgeous shrug as we head into warmer weather! You will need ■ Hayfield Baby Blossom DK, 1 (1: 2: 2: 2) balls in Little Lavender (shade 0352) ■ 4.5mm (US 7) crochet hook ■ 5 stitch markers Measurements ■ See sizing guide Tension ■ Work pattern to end…

Adding beads to your crochet is a great way to enliven your work. Whether you want the bling of crystal beads in a lace shawl, or to add some texture and pattern to a sweater, beads are a quick and easy way to bring an extra dimension. Beads can be added at any point in the work. They can be worked as part of a stitch, part of a chain, or placed almost like you would a picot. The exact point you place in a stitch will depend on the effect you want to create, so have a play and experiment with different placements. Normally when adding beads, you pre-string the yarn with the beads you want to use, in the exact order you want to use them. So by…

Top tip Use any cotton DK for these sandals – you can make a single-colour pair from one ball! Don’t be fooled – baby projects can provide a good challenge! Get your teeth into front post stitches to create these utterly adorable sandals in two different sizes. You will need ■ 25g of green DK cotton – Yarn A 25g of white DK cotton – Yarn B ■ 3.5mm (US E/4) hook ■ 4 buttons ■ Stitch marker Measurements ■ Small (0-6 months), finished sole length: 9.5cm (3¾in) ■ Medium (6-12 months), finished sole length: 10.5cm (4¼in) Tension ■ 20 sts and 20 rows to 10cm (4in) over double crochet using a 3.5mm hook Abbreviations ■ FPdtr – Front Post double treble Yrh twice, starting at the front insert hook…

Top tip Work a pattern swatch before you begin this poncho to get the right tension Stay cosy in style with this delicate crochet cover-up that’s perfect for all seasons. Layer it over your favourite jumper to ward off evening chills, or pretty up a basic top in a contrasting colour. This is an ideal first big project for beginner crocheters because it uses basic techniques and is quick to make. You will need ■ Debbie Bliss Cashmerino Aran, 6 balls in Aqua (shade 047) ■ 6mm (US 10) hook ■ Tapestry needle Measurements ■ One size ■ Finished width at bust level: 130cm (50in) ■ Finished length, nape to point: 65cm (25in) Tension ■ 2 pattern repeats and 9 rows in pattern to 13cm (5in) using a 6mm hook.…

Top tip Match the colours of your clutch bag to those of your favourite dress or earrings Becky Garratt’s unique clutch bag design incorporates undulating waves, worked in three different bright shades. You’ll be able to make these waves using a combination of double and treble crochet stitches, and any colours you like from this yarn range – we’ve chosen vibrant greens and a pinky purple. Patons 100% Cotton DK is a fine, mercerised cotton that’s bursting with colour, perfect for giving your bag a glitzy sheen. You will need ■ Patons 100% Cotton DK, 1 ball each in: Apple (02205) – Yarn A Jade (02726) – Yarn B 2 balls in: Fuchsia (02742) – Yarn C ■ 3mm (US C/2 or D/3) hook ■ 4 pairs of snap fasteners…

Top tip Change the background colour to suit different rooms or the changing seasons We all know that crochet is an art form, but have you ever made a piece of art quite like this one? The gorgeous sunflower design is hooked using different yarn weights – chunky, DK and 4ply – to create bold outlines and lighter fill patterns. Covering a canvas from corner to corner in crochet stitches, it’s amazing to watch the picture come to life, but you’ll have to use your instincts and adjust a few stitches depending on your tension. Van Gogh would approve, we’re sure! You will need ■ 2 balls of 4ply cotton yarn in white ■1 ball of DK cotton yarn in white ■ 2 balls of chunky cotton yarn in white…

Top tip Make nine squares and join together with double crochet to make a pretty cushion Crochet designer Lara Messer says: “Hanging lavender bags on coat hangers, nestling them in drawers or even your holiday suitcase is a trick my mum taught me. It’s a lovely thing to make on a summer’s day and will keep everything smelling fresh and sweet.” We’re loving the vintage vibe of these delicate shades of cotton, and lavender is such a calming scent to have in the home – plus, it’s also a natural moth repellant! You will need ■ DMC Petra no 5, 1 ball each in: Lilac (5224) – Yarn A Cream (54459) – Yarn B Pink (5225) – Yarn C ■ 2.5mm (US C/2) hook ■ Dried lavender ■ White felt…

Personalised Owl BRITISH AND BESPOKE £12.95 www.notonthehighstreet.com/britishandbespoke This delightful owl kit comes in a bag that’s printed with a bespoke message, making this cute critter an ideal gift. The cuddly owl, when finished, stands at about 20cm (8in) tall, and the kit to make him includes three skeins of yarn in blue, brown and orange, as well as a crochet hook, stuffing and stick-on eyes. The drawstring bag is made from cotton canvas and you can request any message up to five lines long, with up to 20 characters of text, so you could even adorn it with a short poem if you choose! What a lovely way to show a fellow crochet fan some love. Mystical Lanterns Shawl JANIE CROW £45 www.janiecrow.co.uk Made from delectable Jamieson’s Spindrift yarn, Janie…

Top of the Blogs! www.storylandamis.com Holly loves amigurumi. If you’re an amigurumi lover, too, you’ll love Holly’s blog, Storyland Amis, which is stuffed with amigurumi cuteness. In addition to tales of her design adventures, there’s advice for making the adorable little Japanese toys, and you can buy the patterns for her designs if you fall for any of her cute creations. Maybe you have a hankering for designing your own? Well, just follow Holly’s advice in her brilliant two-part tutorial. Holly is the brainchild of the Freddy the Fox kit from Wool Couture – find out more on page 83. WE love It’s a wonder Wonderwool Wales, the annual gathering for wool and natural fibre enthusiasts, is a real treat for yarn lovers with its mix of workshops and shopping,…

Top tip Pop your owls and picnic pieces in a small box or suitcase to keep them clean Twit twoo! We’re not sure what it is about these wide-eyed little owls and their picnic for two – they’re just so cute, each wearing a hat that instantly gives them extra character! You only need to follow one pattern for the owl body and wings, using a soft pink shade for Martha and pale blue for Boris. Then add the hats and picnic items to complete the romantic scene. This set would make a sweet gift for a couple who enjoy sharing a bottle of wine under the twinkling stars! You will need ■ Stylecraft Special DK, 1 ball each in: Sherbet (1034) Clematis (1380) White (1001) Stone (1710) Bright green…

Top tip Invest in some yarn bowls to keep colours separate and to prevent tangles This luxurious blanket uses a beautiful aran yarn by Debbie Bliss, flecked with colour and rich with texture. Made from wool and angora so it’s both warm and soft, it’ll be a gorgeous addition to any home where snuggling up is a regular activity – just add a book or a good movie for the perfect lazy afternoon! You’ll use front post and back post stitches to add texture to your work. These stitches are great to master as they can be used for edgings, ribbing, and even cabling in crochet. You will need ■ Debbie Bliss Donegal Luxury Tweed Aran, 9 balls in Red (004) 7 balls in Oatmeal (007) 2 balls in Denim…

Top tip An alternative machine-washable yarn is DROPS Paris Cotton – great for sensitive skin This cosy and thoroughly adorable short-sleeved cardigan is the perfect summer cover-up for little ones. The soft wool and alpaca mix from DROPS is reasonable in price, and there are lots of lovely shades to choose from. Designer Simone has picked a gorgeous base colour of Light Beige for her cardi, with a bright yoke that mimics classic knitted Fair Isle in shades of cerise, blue, gold and green. For the perfect finish, the cardigan is fastened with a shiny satin ribbon – too cute! You will need ■ Drops Nepal, Light Beige Mix (0206) x 2 (3: 3: 3) balls – Yarn A Cerise (6273) x 1 (2: 3: 3) balls – Yarn B…

Top tip Block this project carefully to show off the gorgeous diamond pattern Vest tops are essential for summer, so try Lucy Croft’s gorgeous design, worked in granny trebles with striking diamond motifs running down both the front and back. Layer yours up with a contrasting vest to show off the stitches, which also include extended double crochet. We’ve chosen a bold Melon shade of Rico Essentials Cotton DK, helping to add a summery favour to this pretty top. Paired with jeans, you’ve got an easy and comfortable outfit that can be dressed up or down. You will need ■ Rico Essentials Cotton DK, 6 (6: 7: 7) balls in Melon (shade 70) ■ 3.5mm (US E/4) hook Measurements ■ See sizing guide Tension ■ 5 3-tr groups and 10…

Top tip Lie cotton garmets out flat to dry, so they don’t stretch and become distorted Cheat your way to colourwork with this light and breezy beach dress by Simone Francis, featuring colourful stripes woven through the mesh fabric. It’s worked in cool cotton and has a loose fit, making it the perfect cover-up to slip on and off in warmer weather. And let’s not forget about that fabulous fringe detailing around the sleeves and hemline – a playful touch that’s really easy to do and perfect for summer. You will need ■ Sirdar Cotton 4ply, 5 (5: 6: 7: 7: 8) balls in Vanilla (502) – Yarn A ■ Sirdar Beachcomber, 1 ball each in: Coral Bay (256) – Yarn B Breeze (257) – Yarn C Ultramarine (255) –…

Whether your bathroom is tiny or huge, you’re sure to find a use for this brilliant basket! It’s perfect for other rooms, too – store your yarn stash in it, or how about some tea towels in the kitchen? Worked in a low-cost chunky yarn, this pattern uses just one ball and hooks up quickly, so it’s great value and a really satisfying project for the beginner crocheter. You will need ■ King Cole Big Value Super Chunky in White (1758) ■ 9mm (US M/13) hook Measurements ■ 36cm (27in) diameter when laid fat Tension ■ Tension is not important for this project Abbreviations ■ For standard abbreviations see page 90 About this yarn King Cole Big Value Super Chunky 100% acrylic 81m per 100g Machine wash at 40°C £2.39,…

Top tip Experiment with yarns and hook sizes to make different sizes Update your denim with a lacy crochet doily – perfect for a vintage vibe. This striking motif is fun to hook using a variety of stitches including trebles, half trebles, double crochet and treble clusters. Once finished, carefully sew it to the back of the jacket with a sewing needle and matching thread. You will need ■ 12g of DK cotton in cream ■ 3.5mm (US E/4) hook Measurements ■ Doily measures 14cm (5½in) diameter Tension ■ Tension is not important for this project Abbreviations ■ For standard abbreviations see page 90 Top Tip As this pattern uses minimal yarn, it’s great for using up leftovers DOILY Make a magic loop. Round 1 (RS) Ch1 (does not count…

Holding the hook TRY THESE METHODS AND SEE WHICH WORKS BEST PENCIL METHOD Hold the hook like a pencil, in your right hand (if you’re right-handed), about 3-5cm from the hooked end. If your hook has a flat area, you’ll find it comfortable to hold it here. KNIFE METHOD Hold the hook between your thumb and forefinger, about 3-5cm from the hooked end, resting the end of the hook against your palm. This will give you lots of control. Holding the yarn EVEN TENSION RESULTS IN EVEN STITCHES METHOD ONE Pass the ball end of the yarn between the little finger and third finger of your left hand (if you are right-handed), then behind the third and middle fingers, over your index finger. METHOD TWO Loop the ball end of…