Create Through Crochet
And see what you discover...
Letter From Jodie Morgan: Founding Editor
In this issue, there’s… tiny ocean magic, elegant drape in a unique poncho, string together some Fall decorations, morning coffee comfort, and…
(Disclosure: Any purchases made through links may earn me a commission.)
Plus, beyond the velvet rope (unlocked for you this week) you’ll find…
Sweet pea pals, puffy perfection, playful polka dots and classic stripes, a bloom for special occasions, a Nordic-inspired winter wrap, textured classic comfort, blossom into style, and warmth despite the winter chill.
Five finishes to transform your projects, stress-free holiday crocheting, more speedy crochet tips, discover Tunisian crochet with Lori Harrison, smooth finish and smooth process, and single crochet ribbing secrets revealed.
Extend the possibilities, creativity as connection, brighten up with sunbursts, the versatility of the lemon peel stitch, get a textured finish, and zippered puffs.
Useful Links: About | Member Support
Publication Schedule
Thu — What To Crochet Next
Fri — My yarny adventures
Note: In email, this issue may get cut off halfway. Click here to read it in full.
Table Of Contents
Crocheter’s Corner
Question From A Reader
“I love the look of heathered yarns, but I'm worried about making something too complex with it. What kinds of projects would you recommend for a beginner using heathered yarn?"
That’s a good point. I'd recommend starting with simpler projects since heathered yarns don't show stitch definition as clearly as solid yarns. This makes them perfect for:
Basic hats
Simple sweaters
Blankets with basic stitch patterns
Easy accessories
Many small businesses and one-person operations make gorgeous hand-dyed yarn! I’ve never seen such beautiful colors and variety.
Remember, if you're using a darker heathered yarn, it's tricky to count stitches. Start with a lighter colored heathered yarn for your first project.
The great news is because of heathered yarns’ two-tone blended appearance, even the simplest stitches will look interesting!
I’ve just updated my post all about heathered yarn.
Useful Crochet Tip
Using The Golden Loop
"Every crocheter has a unique yarn tension. Some pull tight, others are more relaxed. The golden loop technique helps you adjust to the pattern's needs, whether it calls for tighter or looser stitches.
When you yarn over and pull up a loop, pay attention to its height. This loop determines your stitch's size.
For tighter stitches, keep this loop shorter. For looser stitches, allow a bit more height. It's a subtle change, but it makes a big difference!"
— Excerpt from the Crochet Habits Success Manual.
Crocheting Comedy
I love sharing the fun of our craft and I hope you get a giggle out of this…
In case of emergency, break glass!
The Great Crochet Debate
I so enjoy finding out about my readers’ experiences. Please let me know your thoughts in this poll.
Cast your vote by the next issue for the reveal!
Worthy Of A Spot On Your Bookshelf
Here’s my weekly recommendation for an excellent resource to help you on your crocheting journey.
The Joy Of Yarn by Marie Greene
“If you’re struggling with an overwhelming yarn stash… This is the book. Marie Greene provides a refreshing approach to organizing and curating your yarn collection. Rather than advocating for strict rules, she teaches you how to rediscover the joy in your stash and shop mindfully.”
— Sourced from my recommended books for your fiber arts library.
Crochet Through Time
I enjoy discovering historical art that displays our craft throughout the ages.
Federico Zandomeneghi was an Italian impressionist painter who painted many women doing their domestic duties. I love how vibrant this piece is!
Fabulous Yarny Happenings
Some fiber arts events occurring around the world this week:
Fiber Folks of SW Missouri Guild Retreat in Missouri, USA
Yorkshire Yarn Fest in York, UK
Hamilton Fibre Market in Ontario, Canada
Handwerkbeurs in the Netherlands
One of my most popular posts has been my list of global Fiber Arts Events. Check it out for all the details of the upcoming festivals, gatherings, and retreats.
Want a complimentary month of What To Crochet Next?
If you share this issue with your friends and any of them become a member… You both get a complimentary month.
Click the button below! 👇
This Week In Crochet News
Here’s what I’ve found for you…
Calling All Overlay Mosaic Crochet Lovers!
has just finished a lovely set of overlay mosaic crochet designs: a pair of fingerless gloves and boot cuffs.So, she’s looking for testers! You can sign up to become one here. As she said, they’d make an excellent, quick Christmas gift!
And, if you want the backstory on what inspired the designs, give her post a read. She visits the most stunning-looking yarn shop!
An Adorable Marine Friend
Isn’t this reader of Passages by
so kind? They gifted her the most adorable crocheted whale.A Crocheter’s Origin Story
a new publication has just started up… It’s about crocheting and embroidery, and it’s called Hooks, Lines & Stitches by
!She writes beautifully about her origin story.
That’s A Wrap On This Freeform Project
has finished her 21-day project of freeform crochet, and just look at the most gorgeous purples and greens!“And just like that, the 21 Day Project is over. The short time frame was very enjoyable for getting this project underway, for staying hyperfocused on using all of these greens and purples. My freeform project continues, but the 21 days have passed, so I’m working on my own leisurely schedule now.”
Finding ‘Hygge’ Through Crochet
For those of you in the Northern Hemisphere…
from Knit365 has some excellent suggestions for enjoying Fall and cultivating the Danish concept of ‘hygge’:“It goes without saying that one of my favourite ways to bring hygge into the flat is through knitting and crochet. There’s something incredibly soothing about working with yarns - whether chunky or otherwise - that brings a feeling of cosiness.”
Every first Thursday of the month, I unlock the weekly issue for all members. To enjoy the full experience every week, upgrade now!
Crochet Designs You Can't Miss…
Turn Tiny Ocean Magic Into A Beloved Sidekick
This delightful jellyfish by Jen Hayes from Jen Hayes Creations brings whimsy wherever it goes. I appreciate how the scalloped edges and flowing tentacles create graceful movement.
Made with worsted weight yarn and a 3.5mm (E/4) hook, it's a small project with big charm. She has a knack for making joyful Amigurumi characters!
Elegant Drape Meets Modern Style
This roll neck poncho by Rachel Bryan has such beautiful drape and modern styling. I love how the roll neck adds warmth and visual interest.
The silhouette is flattering and versatile, and Rachel's attention to detail shows in every element of this design. Her work often features clean lines and contemporary shapes that work well for everyday wear.
String Together A Fall Welcome
Seasonal decorating is such fun, and this pumpkin garland by Erin Hansen is perfect. The ribbed texture gives each pumpkin a lovely dimension. I appreciate how Erin Hansen includes video assembly instructions: it makes it much easier!
They’re quick to crocket up with super bulky yarn (size 6.)
Morning Coffee Comfort
I adore how this headband by Black Rose Stitches brings modern style to a classic accessory. The textured design reminds me of the ripples in my morning coffee. Perfect for keeping hair tidy during quick errands!
The design scales beautifully across toddler to adult sizes.
You can use any worsted yarn, with a 5.5mm or 6mm crochet hook, and I’d recommend it in Comfy Worsted (75% Pima Cotton/25% Acrylic) with Furls Streamline ergonomic hooks in 5.5mm and 6mm sizes.
As a free member, you get the weekly previews, and on the first Thursday of the month you get the entire issue for free. Lucky you!
But… if you want to:
Finally turn your crocheting indecision into inspired action…
Become the go-to VIP crocheter in your circle of friends…
And instantly unlock:
Unlimited access to all past and future issues…
An organized, user-friendly catalog of all featured crochet treasures…
Surprise bonuses and lots more to come…
Ready to be the crocheter you’ve always wanted to?
Sweet Pea Pals
I'm smiling at the thoughtfulness behind this free amigurumi design from Ravenister13. It started as a gift for a friend that brought such joy, they wanted to share it with everyone!
Raven made it beginner-friendly and includes a video tutorial.
I'd suggest using Paintbox Yarns Cotton DK with a 3.5mm hook for the cleanest stitches on small details.
Puffy Perfection
I'm fascinated by how the puffy V-stitch creates such dramatic depth in this cowl design by Kirsten from Haak Maar Raak. The 50-inch circumference means you can double-wrap it for extra warmth.
Using a US G/6 (4mm) hook helps keep even tension in texture-rich sections.
Playful Polka Dots, Classic Stripes
I appreciate how Helen from EmkatCrochet combines bold spots with clean stripes in this blanket. The 43x53” dimensions allow for serious snuggling!
Helen has also written a book called Crochet Illusion Blankets if you’re interested in more of her gorgeous designs.
A Bloom For Special Occasions
I'm drawn to Maya Kuzman's delicate approach in this poppy flower. At just 3.5 inches, it's perfect for brooches or hair accessories.
The black beaded center adds such rich detail!
Maya regularly creates beautiful bohemian and floral designs for her blog.
Nordic-Inspired Winter Wrap
I love how Sheri from Country Willow Designs blends traditional infinity scarf construction with bohemian texture in this cozy accessory. The stitches create such gorgeous dimension.
It needs 180-200 yards of yarn, and for best drape and warmth, I'd choose Wool of the Andes Worsted with a 6.5mm Furls Streamline hook.
Textured Classic Comfort
In this versatile cardigan from Brianna at Life and Yarn, the back-loop half double crochet creates beautiful ribbing, and there's nothing better than pockets!
Work it in Lion Brand Touch of Alpaca with a 7mm hook.
Blossom Into Style
I adore the concept behind this Flower Triangle Shawl Scarf by Tonya from Nana’s Crafty Home!
Bringing together the modern Moss Stitch using ombre yarn, and the brilliant Mum Stitch for vibrant flowers crocheted right into the scarf, it’s a unique merging of form and function.
Warmth Despite The Winter Chill
The Campfire crochet hood by Julie from Accrochet is so versatile! You can wear it as a hood, cowl, or face protector: perfect for changeable weather.
She uses Lion Brand’s Mandala yarn (100% Acrylic, DK weight) which does wonders with its color gradients.
Insider Crochet Inspiration…
Five Finishes To Transform Your Projects
I love finding creative ways to add flair to simple projects. These edging techniques by Melanie from Timmel Crochet are lovely!
The pintuck edge creates a raised texture that would elevate any blanket's look. Most beginners looking to learn how to make borders should start with the classic shell stitch, but the gentle wave’s soft movement is great too!
Stress-Free Holiday Crocheting
Oh, the holiday rush! Fitting a marathon of crochet projects into a tight schedule can dampen the festive spirit. Joanna's post on High Desert Yarn helps you make it all manageable in five easy tips.
By starting with a yarn de-stash and making a project list, you can keep your crochet joy untangled from holiday stress!
More Speedy Crochet Tips
Couple that with Kati’s timesaving amigurumi techniques! Combining larger hooks and thicker yarn for quick adorable projects is a great idea, and music instead of TV while crocheting keeps your stitches flying.
Discover Tunisian Crochet With Lori Harrison
I've always admired the intricate, woven-like texture of Tunisian crochet, so when I found this review of Lori Harrison's Exploring Tunisian Crochet by Ashley from The Loopy Lamb, I was interested to read more.
As Ashley mentions in her review, the book offers everything from basic stitches to advanced techniques, and with step-by-step photos for both right and left-handed crafters, it's inclusive and practical.
Smooth Finish, Smooth Process
I've always believed the magic of crochet lies in the details, and Janne's technique for a flat wrong side in overlay mosaic crochet confirms this.
Her method of using anchored double crochet delivers a seamless finish, which is often the missing piece in making crochet works look polished.
Single Crochet Ribbing Secrets Revealed
I recently found Petra Salisbury's excellent tutorial on single crochet ribbing, and it’s so thorough and beginner-friendly! Check out her complete guide for step-by-step instructions and don't miss the tips on maintaining snug edges.
This stretchy, double-sided stitch makes simple projects more interesting: whether you're crafting cozy mittens or seasonal decorations like pumpkins.
Extend The Possibilities
Discover a fabulous twist on a crochet classic with Jessica Underwood’s extended single crochet tutorial! It adds a lovely drape and height to your projects, surpassing even a half double crochet.
It's surprisingly simple yet squishy and solid without being bulky.
Creativity As Connection
Caitie from Thoresby Cottage offers a heartfelt exploration into the "whys" of crafting in her post, Why I Make. It’s a lifelong journey woven through family ties, discovery, and her environment and community.
She showed how creativity connects with emotions and relationships, highlighting crafting as a meaningful form of connection.
Brighten Up With Sunbursts
The Sunburst Granny Square tutorial is a clever take on the classic! The approach by Crochet.com allows for some stunning color play.
The Versatility Of The Lemon Peel
The lemon peel stitch tutorial by Alex from You Should Craft is a splendid find.
The straightforward combination of single and double crochets provides a delightful texture that’s useful in so many projects.
Get A Textured Finish
Kristen from Hooks, Books & Wanderlust breaks down the ribbing technique nicely in her tutorial. If you've ever struggled with ribbed borders, especially working them top-down without bulkiness, this is a must-read!
She uses clear, easy-to-follow instructions for adding a back loop only single crochet ribbing. Plus, the video tutorial is great for visual learners!
Zippered Puffs
Toni from TL Yarn Crafts never disappoints, and her tutorial on the Tunisian puff stitch is great! Ideal for cozy home projects like rugs and pillows.
Hope this issue has inspired your next crochet project!
Was this valuable to you? How could I make it more useful for you?
Reply to this email or leave a comment with what you’d like to see. And as an extra thank you for sending me your feedback, I’ll have a surprise for you… 😀
P.S. It’s a fried egg… with a twist!
P.P.S. Don’t forget to become a VIP member for even more crochet inspiration…
This stack is so so helpful and just what I need after yesterday in the US. Thank you
Your treasure trove of resources always has something that ticks my box (several boxes, to be rigorous :D). A thread of goodies to read and explore. <3
(And thank you for sharing my call for pattern testers. Hope to go ahead with the test very soon! :))