Barrett the Bear--first in a series of woodland creatures

Introducing the first in a series of woodland creatures: Barrett the Bear. 

The rest of the amigurumi patterns will be featured in the next four issues of Crochet World after this one. They will all have the same body, and will be able to wear each other's clothing--jackets, skirts, scarves, etc. I made them with Lion Brand Color Theory, a soft yarn in amazing colors. I think you'll like making all of them!

Check out the latest issue of Crochet World HERE.

An Amigurumi in Paris

Just in time for the Olympics: Pierre the French Poodle, an amigurumi inspired by the iconic film, An American in Paris. 

The pattern--available here--includes Pierre's feline friend, Fifi.

Gingham Picnic Pillow

My crocheted pillow is featured in the current issue of Crochet World (summer 2024). The design is inspired by the checkered tablecloths I've always loved--so cozy and comforting. It's a deceptively simple pattern, crocheted in cotton, made up of three-round granny squares in three colors. 

Don't you just want to curl up on it with an ice cold lemonade and a good book? 

Keep crocheting!

Free Pattern to Crochet-along!

 I just started a group on Ravelry, Crochet for Mental Health.  If you are not already on Ravelry.com, it's a terrific place for finding patterns, ideas, and like-minded friends interested in countless topics--and it's free to join!

I'm hosting a CAL--a crochet-along--through the group. We will be crocheting a small stuffed animal, beginning Sunday, 29 October, 2023. Email me (donna.childs.crochets@gmail.com) for list of materials and more info. You will receive the free pattern, more free patterns, and detailed instructions day-by-day, ending on that Friday. (If you sign up after the 29th, you'll have to pay for the collection of patterns). 

As I've said before, Crochet is soothing, gratifying, builds community, boost self-esteem, and comforts others. Come visit my Crochet for Mental Health group to learn how crochet can benefit you, and to share your experience with others.

I hope to see you next month for the crochet-along!

Timeless Noro Crochet

I just received my copy of Timeless Noro Crochet. I am honored to be featured in this lovely book, and to discover that my design is one of the most popular in the book (according to Ravely.com votes).

It's a relatively easy pattern, a two-row repeat, with the yarn itself doing much of the work to make it dazzling. I had designed it to wrap loosely around the neck and shoulders, but I like the way it's styled in the photographs. 

Check out the rest of the book--there are some truly magnificent designs inside. 

@sixthandspringbooks 

Formica-inspired design

 

Proof you can get inspiration from anywhere--here's a crocheted pillow cover that I designed after admiring retro-style formica samples.  The yarn is Jeans, from the Lion Brand company, a very soft and pretty yarn, one of my favorites. 

"One of the easiest and quickest ways to spruce up a room is to add some lively throw pillows. This easy project is embellished with surface crochet inspired by mid-century patterns, made up-to-date in the comfy colors of Lion Brand Jeans yarn."--Crochet World

You can find the pattern in the latest issue of Crochet World (February 2023). It's perfect for a beginner, or for an experienced crocheter who wants a quick and simple project. 

Crocheting Toys for Mental Health

It's true, crocheting is good for your mental health. Making a doll or amigurumi is magical. 

Here's an article I wrote for Interweave Crochet: LINK

I'm currently working on a series of patterns, specifically designed with crocheting for mental health in mind, launching later this year. 

To be the first to get info and for free patterns, email me at:

donna.childs.crochets@gmail.com

Keep crocheting!