Fleur Baby Blanket

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Fleur Baby Blanket by poppyandbliss.com

It’s been 4 years since I posted the pattern for my Fleur Motif (see the original here)  I really love this simple little motif and I’ve been wanting to make a baby blanket with it ever since.

Fleur Baby Blanket by poppyandbliss.com

I made a start on it last year then got a little distracted with moving into our new house but pulled it out again when my daughter announced that she will be bringing a little bundle of joy into the world in August.  Yikes!  I’m going to be a granny!  I’m far too young of course 😉 but I’m super excited to meet my little granddaughter soon.

I’ve made some improvements to the original with a few tweaks and written up the new pattern for the complete blanket, including full written instructions and charts, joining instructions, colour layout, yarn information and it has been fully tested.

Fleur Baby Blanket by poppyandbliss.com

Can you spot the little flowers that have formed where the squares meet?  I love this detail!

Fleur Baby Blanket by poppyandbliss.com

I just love how it has turned out!

The free version of the original unmodified motif is still available here or if you prefer the full updated pattern for the modified motif and instructions to make the whole blanket in either US or UK/Aus terms is available for a small fee of AU$2.99 (aprox US$2.00) and can be found in my stores:

 Ravelry:   both US and UK/AU terms are in the one download

Etsy:   US Terms   UK/AU terms

Love Crochet:  US Terms   UK/AU Terms

Until next time, happy hooking!

Michelle x

 

Vivo Throw – a new pattern

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vivo throw pattern by poppyandbliss.com

Hooray it’s new pattern day!

Do you remember my Vivo bolster cushion from a couple of years ago now?  Well, she now has a matching throw!

As soon as I finished the cushion I wanted to make a blanket version but then the idea got put on hold for awhile …. then life stuff got in the way …. then I actually made the blanket (a whole year ago now)  ….. then life stuff got in the way … again! …. but now here we are and I’m relieved to finally tick this one off the list and release the pattern into the world!

craft roomHere she is sitting at the top of the ‘to do list’ aka the ‘ladder of shame’ in my new craft room in my new house… one of the life things that got in the way of writing up the pattern.  Building houses and crochet pattern writing don’t mix well together I’ve found!

Now that we’ve settled into our new place though there is no excuse not to get the patterns written up for everything else hanging there glaring at me accusingly 😉 Stay tuned for these!

In the meantime, let’s get back to Vivo…

vivo throw crochet pattern by poppy and blissJust like the cushion version, the blanket is created using tapestry crochet and textured stitches to create the designs. The pattern is rated as intermediate, mainly for all the colour changes but it is not as complicated as it looks using only basic stitches and each design element is set out in strips with easy to follow short pattern repeats for each section.vivo throw crochet pattern by poppy and blissDon’t be put off by all those ends!  With a little bit of magic and a little bit of cheating we’ll deal with those pesky bits without any weaving in.

The pattern also includes a quick guide to tapestry crochet, photo tutorials for the special stitches used and full colour charts for each design.

There are two versions of the pattern available. One written in US terms and one using UK/Aus terms.

You can find the pattern here:

Ravelry   Both US & UK versions are included in download 

Etsy    US Version     UK Version

Love Crochet  US Version   UK Version

Remember sharing is caring.  If you make your very own Vivo Throw don’t forget to show us all your beautiful creation by tagging your pics with #vivothrow or add your project to the Vivo Throw Ravelry page.

I hope you enjoy.

 

Until next time Michelle x

 

Book Review – Crochet A-B-Sea

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ABSEA_1

I have a delightful new book to share with you today – Crochet A-B-Sea – An Extraordinary Underwater Alphabet by the fun and fabulous Pony McTate.

It’s not often that you come across a truly unique crochet book but this is one of those exceptions.  Pony has a fun quirky sense of humour which really shines through her designs.

It was fun following this project develop over on Pony’s instagram feed earlier in the year and I was excited to see that it has turned into a book so that we can all have a go at making our own unique and educational blanket.

So let’s have a look inside ….

ABSEA_2The chapters

 

Preliminary stuff

This chapter includes all the things you need to know before getting started, including:

  • abbreviations used and a conversion chart from UK terms to US terms (the book is written in UK terms). 
  • a page of ideas for other uses of the motifs – such as clothing appliques, fridge magnets and any other kind of decorative purpose you can think of
  • Yarn, gauge and hook size information

Techniques

This is a great chapter with lots of tips and tricks to help you produce beautiful work, such as:

  • How to make a magic loop
  • How to make neater seams working in the round
  • Invisible joins
  • Changing colour
  • Embroidery tips

The patterns

In addition to the instructions for the plain background squares, here you will find:

  • 26 patterns for all the weird and wonderful sea creatures from A to Z
  • Each pattern includes a difficulty rating and is written with clear instructions, hints and tips and photo tutorials for the tricky bits
  • Fun facts about the creatures

Finishing off

Another great chapter with more tips on creating a beautiful finished blanket, including

  • Blocking your squares
  • Attaching your creatures
  • Attaching a fabric backing
  • Joining your squares
  • Making the border

And finally there is a comprehensive list of all the yarn used with details of colours and amounts used.

Of course, I couldn’t resist making a couple of squares myself but choosing just a couple of faves was hard – there are so many cute, quirky creatures to choose from!  I finally settled on the Clown Fish and Jellyfish for now but I’ll definitely have to make a few more in the future I think!

ABSEA_3

!!  Giveaway !!

Pony has very generously given me a book to giveaway to one lucky reader.  To go in the draw to win a copy, simply leave a comment telling me what your favourite sea creature is.

Entry is for Australian residents only (sorry to my international readers – but postage is a killer). 

Entries will be drawn at random on 4th October 4:00 pm AEST

Where to buy Crochet A-B-Sea

Head over to Pony’s website for links to order either a print or digital copy.

Until next time

Michelle xx

 

 

WIP’s,FO’s and New Things

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:: WIP’s, FO’s and New Things ::

I’ve always got lots of projects on the go but don’t often document them except for the occasional pic on instagram.  I’m on a quest to be more organised and productive this year so each month I’ll pop in with this regular column so I can look back at my year and hopefully also inspire you too.

You’ll also notice a lot more knitting and stitching making an appearance here too.  Once upon a time these crafts were my main squeeze so I’m enjoying taking the occasional break from crochet and Tunisian crochet and switching things up a bit.

Here’s a little peek at what I’ve been up to this month …

New Pattern

Do you remember my Vivo cushion pattern from last year?  I’ve been wanting to make a blanket version of it ever since.  Well, finally I’ve had the chance to get to it and I LOVE how it’s turned out! I’m using Scheepjes Stone Washed instead of the cotton yarn that I used for the cushion and I love the soft mottled effect!  This yarn really adds another layer to the design which I think is really effective.

I’m almost finished writing up the pattern then it’s off to the testers.  Here’s a little sneak peek for now and hopefully it won’t be too far off being ready for the pattern release.  Stay tuned!

Vivo_crochet blanket by poppyandbliss

Knitting

I love stranded colourwork/fairisle knitting. It’s so much fun watching the patterns emerge as you knit and worth all the ends!

I’ve just moved to a warmer climate where it never really gets cold enough to wear these wristies but I simply HAD to make them….just because!

The free pattern for these Fair Isle Cuffs by Julie Williams of Little Cotton Rabbits is available here on Ravelry.  These were such an enjoyable knit and only took a few nights in front of the telly to make.  I’m so in love with them I think I’ll wear them no matter the weather.

fairisle_wristies

Stitching 

I fell in love with this ‘Love’ design by Amanda from Brynn & Co and it’s what got me back into embroidery again.  I’m a little bit rusty and my stitches aren’t perfect but I don’t care – I’m loving every relaxing stitch!

Now I’ve been bitten by the bug again, I have a more embroidery projects on the go which I’ll share next month.

Love_embroidery_wip

Well that’s all from me for now.

Until next time

Michelle x

Book Review :: Crochet Loom Blooms

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loom blooms cover1I’m back today with another book review.  There are so many great craft books coming out lately I can barely keep up and today’s featured book is no exception!

When I was asked if I’d like to review this gorgeous new book  – *Crochet Loom Blooms by Haafner Linssen (*UK/Aus version is called ‘Flower Loom Blooms’) I jumped at the chance.

I’ve been following Haafner on instagram for years and her feed is a feast of beautiful crochet. You should definitely check out her profile here.  Go on!  It will make your eyes happy!

I’ve seen flower looms around before but have never been inspired to try them out but one look at the cover of this beautiful book I was instantly attracted and eager to learn more.

The book is divided into four chapters, covering all the essential techniques you’ll need to start making your own blooms.  Each of the 30 flower motifs are beautifully photographed with clear written instructions as well as charts for those of us who prefer visual aids.

There are 5 projects included to get you started but the possibilities are endless really. All the motifs shown in the book come with instructions for joining so you can use any motif to make blankets, curtains, clothing or whatever your imagination can dream up.

Itching to get started, I ordered myself a loom here.   At first I was all fingers and thumbs and my first couple of blooms were a flop.  But after I got through that fiddly stage I was cranking out cute little flowers like a champ.  They are quick to make and a great way to use up all those little bits of scrap yarn.

Here’s what I’m making

 

loom_bloomsIt’s the ‘Summer of Love’ motif.  Cute, yes!  I think I’ll keep going and make a cushion cover.

In summary, Crochet Loom Blooms is not only pretty to look at, it is a comprehensive guide to combining two fun crafts together in a unique way.

If you like pretty things or would like to add another dimension to your crochet I would highly recommend adding this book to your collection.  Click here if you’d like to purchase your own copy of Crochet Loom Blooms.

Until next time

Michelle x

 disclosure:

*affiliate links contained in this post. If you make a purchase by following my link I will earn a tiny commission which helps me keep running this blog at no cost to you.  Thank you for your continued support.

 *I received a digital copy of this book in return for my no obligation, honest opinion.  All opinions are my own. 

 

Book Review: Crochet Kaleidoscope

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CrochetKaleidoscope_500px_72dpiimage credit:  F & W media

I am delighted to bring you a review of the fantastic new book Crochet Kaleidoscope – Shifting Shapes and Shades across 100 Motifs by Sandra Eng aka mobiusgirl on instagram or you can also find Sandra on her blog here

Inside you will find  a fantastic variety of patterns for 100 different motifs ranging in shape from circles, squares, hexagons, triangles and other shapes.  There really is something for everyone in this book!

Kaleidoscope_1045 (1)image credit:  F & W media

Each motif includes a clear photo, written instructions and a chart diagram.  Many of the motif designs are also shown in alternative colourways which is a great feature and really highlights how different a motif can look depending on your colour choices.

Speaking of colour, there is an excellent chapter on choosing colours which guides you through colour selection using the colour wheel, finding inspiration and pairing colours as well as some excellent links to ‘colour picking’ tools available on the web.

This book is a wonderful resource to add to your crochet bookshelf which you will refer to time and again when planning new projects.  I really liked the tip on using a photo collage app to get a sense of what your finished project will look like when all joined together.  To kickstart your creativity, there are patterns 5 gorgeous projects using some of the motifs in the book.

I always like to make something from the book I am reviewing.  Flicking through the pages, it was hard to choose.  There were so many interesting motifs I wanted to try, I didn’t know where to start!

Solstice_Pillow

image credit:  F & W media

I was really drawn to the Solstice Pillow and I’ve made a start on making these squares.  So eye-catching!

solstice squares

I also know someone who would absolutely love the Zinia Table runner

ZinniaTableRunner2

image credit:  F & W media

This is a great stash-buster project!  I’ve made a start with these – it’s very addictive and I’m enjoying how quickly it’s working up.

tablerunner

In summary, Crochet Kaleidoscope is a great book and I would highly recommend it.  It will make a wonderful addition to your library and I’m sure you’ll refer to it often.

Until next time

Michelle x

*disclaimer:  I received a copy of this book in return for my no obligation, honest opinion.  There are no affiliate links in this post.

Book Review: Round and Round the Crochet Hook

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roundthecrochethook-cover

Today, I’m very pleased to share my review of a new crochet book, Round and Round the Crochet Hook by Emily Littlefair. You may know Emily from The Loopy Stitch or follow her gorgeous feed on instagram

The book, published by Tuva Publishing, consists of 18 lovely patterns all worked in the round as the title suggests. Inside you’ll find a great selection of designs ranging from quick projects that can be made in an afternoon such as the coasters or mandalas or to larger projects such as a floor rug or blanket.

All the patterns are well written and include colour coded charts and each project is  beautifully styled and photographed  with several shots showing the item in a different way including close up detailed photo’s.

I really liked the Project Gallery at the front of the book showing all the projects together which is a great visual aid.

Flicking through the pages, it was hard to decide which project I wanted to make! After lots of ‘oohing’ and ‘aahing’, I finally settled on the Fenced Around Wall Hanging to brighten up my studio. It was such a fun, quick project that I think I’ll make more for a few special people on my Christmas list as I know they’ll love them too!

Mandala_book

(please excuse the terrible photo quality – my camera is not playing nice at the mo)

 

Mandala

Speaking of Christmas, I also whipped up a few stars from the Stars In the Night Sky Centrepiece pattern which I think will make cute hanging ornaments.

stars2

It really is a great book! You can have a sneak peek at more of the  lovely projects inside the book or order yourself a copy of Round and Round The Crochet Hook over at Amazon (not affiliated – just a helpful link)

Well that’s it for me today, now I hand you over to the lovely Bec of Handmadebec for her review tomorrow.

Until next time

Michelle xx

 

Tunisian Crochet Workshop Blog Hop

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Hello friends

Just popping in quickly to let you know that the official promotion for my Tunisian Crochet Workshop book starts on Monday 25th September where I’ll be kicking off over on the publishers, SewandSo blog . It also happens to be my birthday that day so double celebrations and cake all round!

Some awesome crochet friends will be joining me so come and join in the fun with us.

Monday 25th September – SewandSo

Tuesday 26th September – Amanda from Crochet by Redagape

Wednesday 27th September – Sandra from Mobius Girl Design

Thursday 28th September – Shelley from Spincushions

Friday 29th September – Julie from Little Woollie

Saturday 30th September – Cintia from My Poppet

See you there!

Michelle x

 

Herringbone Cushion Pattern in Mollie Makes Issue 84

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Herringbone Cushion pattern - Mollie Makes issue 84I was pleasantly surprised to discover the Herringbone Cushion pattern from my Tunisian Crochet Workshop book is reprinted in the latest issue of Mollie Makes (issue 84).  How exciting!

Herringbone Cushion pattern - Mollie Makes issue 84

This latest issue is out now in the UK.  I’m not sure when it will be available here in Australia or elsewhere but the digital version is available on the links below:

Apple – https://itunes.apple.com/gb/app/mollie-makes/id911319779?mt=8

Google Play – https://play.google.com/store/newsstand/details/Mollie_Makes?id=CAowr9LnAw

Until next time

Michelle x

 

 

Tunisian Crochet Workshop Bonus Offer

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Cover

Hi there

Just popping in quickly to let you know about the free bonus pattern offer if you pre-order my book Tunisian Crochet Workshop now.

Tunisian Triangles_Bonus Pattern

When you place your pre-order you’ll receive a copy of my Tunisian Triangles cushion pattern. All the details of how to take advantage of this offer are over on Ravelry so click away and enjoy.   I know some of you have already pre-ordered your copies (thank you lovelies x), but don’t worry!  You can still get your bonus pattern too – just have your order number handy and follow the steps as per the instructions on Ravelry.

While you’re over on Ravelry you can also view all the individual projects from the book too.  Be sure to give your favourite projects some love!  It would be fab if you could press that little heart button on your faves so I can get an idea of what appeals to you all the most.

The Sampler Blanket is my fave of them all.  It was such fun to work on and uses many of the different stitch patterns found in the book so it’s a great way to practice your new skills.

Tunisian Crochet Workshop Book: Tunisian Sampler Blanket

photography: Jason Jenkins/F&W Media Intl.

Until next time

Michelle x