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crochet

Cartwheels & Clovers – Free Square Crochet Motif Pattern with Video

May 28, 2020 //  by mezza//  Leave a Comment

Free Square Crochet Motif Pattern with Video. Back in August 2016, on a trip to a beautiful Norwegian island, I bought some gorgeous DK linen yarn, determined to crochet a top to remind myself of the trip. It wasn’t until more than 6 months later that I came up with a motif and subsequently a top using the yarn. Although the motif was lovely and the overall effect of the motifs are very attractive, the yarn was just too thick and the resulting top was a little heavy and bulky. Being very fond of the motif however, I kept coming back to it, so recently, I decided to remake the top using thinner yarn. I am experimenting with 4ply cotton (Scheepjes Catona in Saffron ) and some 3ply Lithuanian linen. I will share my experiments with you, but to start off, I will document the pattern here.

These instructions are for making a motif in 4ply cotton with a 3mm hook which results in a motif that is approximately 14x14cm. Each motif uses about 12g/30m of yarn.

crochet motifs made in saffron coloured cotton yarn with cartwheel and clover pattern

I would recommend using the written pattern in conjunction with the videos.

I would just like to state, that this pattern has not been properly tested. If you make it, I would truly appreciate any feedback.

Also, I LOVE seeing what you’ve made with my patterns, so please share! On Instagram I am @mezzamay and on Facebook @mezzacraft.

Free Crochet Pattern with Photo Tutorials

Download the Cartwheels & Clovers Crochet Motif Pattern here. (opens in new tab)

Video Tutorial – Motif Only

I have filmed the video for the joining technique but I still need to edit it so please check back soon OR nag me if I still haven’t done it!

I also plan to add some details about layout and the construction of the curved neckline.

Did you enjoy this Free Square Crochet Motif Pattern with Video? I’d be very grateful if you gave my video a “like” on YouTube.

Category: Free Crochet PatternTag: crochet, free crochet patterns

New Learn to Crochet Course – Riverhouse Barn – Starting 26th February 2020

January 8, 2020 //  by mezza//  Leave a Comment

My January course sold out very quickly but luckily I was able to get some studio space to run an additional “Learn To Crochet” course at the Riverhouse Barn Arts Centre, in Walton-on-Thames – this time for a weekday night.

This is a 3 week course where you will get to grips with all the basics needed to get you competent and confident in the art of crochet.

I have developed a special project that covers starting off, chaining, the basic stitches and joining motifs together for a finished item.

This course is for you if you are :

  • a complete beginner and you’ve never even picked up a hook.
  • someone that has dabbled in crochet but never really got to grips with it.
  • someone that may have crocheted many years ago but need refreshing on the basic techniques.
  • self taught from the internet but want to make sure you’re not picking up any bad habits.

As well as my expert guidance and hands on practical work, the course includes detailed class notes with photo tutorials AND everything you need, including hook, yarn, needles, stitch markers and a handy project bag.

Course Dates 2020

Week 1 : Wednesday 26th February 7:30 – 9:30pm
Week 2 : Wednesday 4th March 7:30 – 9:30pm
Week 3 : Wednesday 11th March 7:30 – 9:30pm

Cost

The 3 week course is £65 and covers all materials needed.

Early Bird Discount

Book & pay here, through my website before 31st January for a £5 discount!

After Course Crochet Clinics

I will also be offering a selection of weekly follow-up sessions at my home studio, at an exclusive, reduced rate.

Book Now

4 Week Course Starting on Friday 30th September 2022. Materials included.
£0.00

Category: Crochet ClassesTag: crochet, crochet classes

Posh Yarn Advent Swap 2018

November 7, 2019 //  by mezza//  Leave a Comment

Yarn Advent Swap : Last year I took part in the Posh Yarn Advent Swap. This is a really fun yarn swap for members of the Posh Yarn forum on Ravelry. The easiest way to describe what it entails is to “quote” Charlie, the organizer’s overview:

How it works:
Each participant makes 24 individually wrapped 10g mini-skeins of 4ply/sock weight Posh Yarn, which they then send to the organizer. They also send the organizer the cost of postage and packing for the return parcels (via PayPal).
Once all the parcels have been received by the organizer, they will redistribute the mini-skeins so that each participant has 24 different mini-skeins, each one from a different participant if possible. The organizer will mail the new sets of mini-skeins in plenty of time for them to arrive by 1st December.
Participants can then open one mini-skein each day, from the 1st to the 24th December (in the manner of an Advent calendar), or open them all at once. They can be knitted/crocheted up in the order opened, or saved up to arrange in a pleasing sequence.
Sharing photos of the yarn received, and the projects made, is encouraged, but is not compulsory.

charliesumx

I had plenty of Posh Yarn scraps to make 24 mini skeins, however, it did take a lot longer to hand wind, weigh and pack the skeins than I had anticipated. This year (oh yes, I am taking part in the 2019 swap!) I decided to teach myself how to make a proper mini skein which was much quicker!

A green mini skein of handdyed yarn, a vintage Christmas image of a St Lucy, a selection of crochet squares arranged in a whirl

Zero Self Control

The swap package arrived in very good time, early November if I recall correctly. I could not contain my curiosity and opened my first little yarn package right away. It was crocheted up, using a 2.5mm hook into little squares and triangles using my solid granny square and half square motif patterns.

Soon I lost ALL willpower. I became completely addicted to opening the mini parcels and crocheting up the motifs… all whilst wondering what I was going to make with them!

Three images, the first is of a stack of multicoloured crochet motifs, the second is a progress shot of the motifs being joined to make a wrap, the third image also shows a close up of the wrap, yarn and scissors

Coming Together

As it got closer to the “official” start of the calendar, i.e. the 1st December, I started to formulate a plan. I was going to make a large and cosy wrap. I already worked out that I would be able to make it 4 motifs wide by 14 long, with the square motif turned 45 degrees. I’d need 96 full motifs and 36 half motifs. I wanted to use my join-as-you-go granny stitch border and join but with a contrasting colour, Posh of course. I didn’t have the correct colour to hand. So I kept an eye out during the weekly shop updates in case something suitable cropped up. Luckily the beautiful, silvery grey and sparkly shade of “Caroline Sock” revealed herself. I snapped up a couple of skeins.

12 images showing vintage Christmas cards as a backdrop with with crocheted motifs on top

Sharing Progress

So, I’d worked out my project but then decided that I’d like to “share” a photo of the squares I’d made for each day of the advent in a unique way. I’ve always loved vintage Christmas cards so scoured the internet and collected a series of images to use as backgrounds to my “flat lays”.

I just had so much fun doing this, it really helped me get into the “festive mood” and I think everybody enjoyed me sharing my daily advent “snaps” on Instagram & on the Ravelry forum swap thread.

During December, I washed, blocked and started to join the motifs together. The project required a lot more of the Caroline yarn for the borders and joins than I had anticipated. Luckily a very kind Posh friend sent me her skein so that I could finish that section of the wrap.

left over scraps of colourful handdyed yarn & beautiful crochet border in line green and pink

The Border

I almost used up every scrap of the yarn I’d received in the swap, as well as 3 x 100g skeins of 4ply sock yarn for the joining borders. It took a long time to sew in all those ends! Most of the ends were sewn in as I went along, but it was still quite a big job.

I wanted to add a colourful border and found a beautiful pink and lime green in my stash that looked fabulous together. Initially I was planning on a simple border but I swear it almost crocheted itself into beautiful scallops and a line of surface slip stitch.

Finally I finished the “yarn advent swap” wrap at the end of January 2019. I loved every minute of this swap and project. It was so inspiring to watch the rest of the group share their yarns & projects. Sadly, I am not 100% happy with the finished object. It is certainly very beautiful and showcases Tony, from Posh Yarn’s, amazing dyeing skills but the end result was much too big and heavy to be worn as a wrap. I do use the wrap as a kind of blanket when I’m sat on the sofa and I’m a bit chilly – I drape it over my shoulders. But I’m not able to wear it with my winter coat as planned.

woman holding and wearing a large hand crocheted wrap made from mini skeins from an advent swap

All The Yarn Details

If you want to know more about the yarn bases and colourways I used, you can find those in my Ravelry project page.

The Dilemma

So… I am still considering whether to just continue using it as a lapghan. Maybe I should frog sections of it to make it smaller. I think the ideal size would be 4 motifs wide by 12 motifs long. Maybe even with just one row of granny stitch border join. This would make it considerably lighter and more wearable. Or perhaps start from scratch and make a new, smaller and lighter version, using basically the same pattern and layout? I’m also thinking going up a hook size, even to 2.75mm AND making it narrower & shorter would make everything lighter? What do you think I should do? And have you ever participated in a yarn advent swap? What did you make or are you still cherishing your little skeins?

Category: CrochetTag: crochet

How to Make a Mini Skein – No Calculations!

October 5, 2019 //  by mezza//  Leave a Comment

mini skein of hand dyed yarn from Lottie Knits - purples, blues and greens

I’m going to show you how to make a mini skein – no calculations, measuring or complicated maths. You’ll just need a swift and a set of reasonably accurate scales.

I’m taking part in the Posh Yarn Advent Swap 2019. This is a really fun swap that takes place on the Posh group on Ravelry. Each participant winds 24 x 10g of Posh 4ply/Sock yarn into balls or mini skeins, wraps them up (preferably in a festive fashion) and sends them off to the organiser. Each participant then receives a delicious parcel with 24 little packages of beautiful, hand dyed yarn which can be opened, one each day, just like an advent calendar.

I took part last year and I thoroughly enjoyed it, however, at the time, I didn’t know how to make a mini skein so hand winding 24 little balls of yarns was a real bore.

This year, I decided to get to grips with making mini skeins. As we all do, I had a quick look on you tube… it seemed so complicated to get a specific weight and yardage. In the end, I came up with this simple method for making a mini skein – no calculations involved!

How To Make A Mini Skein

You’ll need:

  • A swift. Any kind of swift will work – I have a simple Sunflower Swift (no longer made). An umbrella swift is also good.
  • A set of accurate scales (I’m using my digital kitchen scales).
  • Scissors.

Before you start, you’ll need to make sure that your hank of yarn has been wound into a cake or ball. If you’ve wound it into a ball, you’ll also need a bowl to put it in, so that it doesn’t roll off the table and bounce round the room!

Instructions

  1. Place your cake (or ball AND bowl) on your scales.
  2. Tare the scales, i.e. set to zero. On mine, I have to hold the “on” button down for a couple of seconds.
  3. Set your swift to the desired size – this will effect the length of your mini skein. I’ve set mine with a radius of about 10″/26cm.
  4. Secure the end of the yarn to the swift.
Three images. First image - scales, ball of yarn, scissors and swift. Image two - scales set to zero with yarn on. Image three - end of yarn attached to swift

5. Start winding the yarn onto the swift, keeping an eye on the scales.
6. When the scales are minus the desired weight (e.g. 10g), stop, ending at the point where you secured the end of the yarn.
7. Cut the yarn, wrap the two ends around each other and then wrap one end around all the strands and fasten off.

Swift with yarn, yarn cake on scales, tying off yarn.

8. Carefully remove the yarn from the swift, making sure the strands are kept together, using your index fingers.
9. Extend your arms and start to twist each end in opposite directions, being careful that the yarn doesn’t slip off your fingers!

Woman in white crochet top, twisting yarn

10. Twist until it’s quite tight. I needed to twist 11 times. If it’s too loose the skein ends up looking messy and if you over-twist, you could accidentally damage the yarn by overstretching it. You might need a few goes to get this just right.
11. Draw your hands towards each other. The yarn should naturally start twisting together.
12. Transfer the loop off yarn off one finger to join the other.

woman in white top twisting a mini skein of hand dyed yarn

13. Gently pull and massage the twist to make the “twizzle” uniform.
14. You might need to give each end a couple of extra twists if they are not as tight as the rest of the mini skein.

woman twisting yarn into mini skeins

15. Now you’re going to tuck one end into the other.
15. That’s it! You should now have a cute little mini skein!

woman's hands holding a mini skein of yarn

Need to SEE this being done?

I also have a You Tube video “How To Make A Mini Skein” :

Disclosure : I sometimes use affiliate links for my favourite yarns and other accessories!

Category: Tips and TutorialsTag: crochet

Learn To Crochet – Private Tuition in Surrey – Gift Voucher

September 23, 2019 //  by mezza

Learn To Crochet – private tuition in Surrey. Buy a voucher – the perfect gift for a friend, family member or why not treat yourself?

What’s included in the Voucher?

The cost of the voucher includes:

  • 2 x 1.5 hour one-to-one tuition.
  • Starter kit with everything you need (crochet hook, yarn, stitch markers, needle & project bag).
  • Class notes, including photo tutorials.

Which crochet techniques are covered?

During the course, you’ll make circles, a traditional granny square and a solid granny square. You’ll also learn how to join motifs together.

We’ll cover most of the essential crochet techniques such as:

  • How to hold the yarn & hook.
  • Chaining.
  • The basic crochet stitches – single crochet, double crochet & slip stitch.
  • Starting & finishing rows / rounds.
  • Weaving in ends.
  • Changing colours.
  • Different ways to finish off.
  • Joining motifs, either by sewing or crocheting.

How much does it cost?

For the tuition, materials & a printable PDF voucher, the cost is £60.
For an additional £6.99 I can also gift wrap and send the starter kit and voucher to the recipient by 1st Class Recorded mail.
The recipient will also receive a login to a course page on my website which features helpful video tutorials of all the techniques covered in the class.

Why are two sessions recommended?

One session often doesn’t give enough time and practise to fully absorb the new skills you’ll learn. Two sessions, ideally spread no more than 1 week apart, gives you time to practise what you’ve learnt in the first session and build on that in the second class. Often, after you’ve gone home from the first class and had a go at crocheting independently, you’ll soon discover you need a bit of extra clarification on a few points to build your confidence and put you on the right track.

What are the times and dates of the lessons?

Currently, I am only available to teach private lessons on the following days and times:

  • Wednesdays 9:30-11:00am & 1:30-3:00pm
  • Thursdays 1:30-3:00pm & 7:30-9:00pm
  • Fridays 9:30-11:00am, 1:30-3:00pm & 7:30-9:00pm

If you need half an hour here or there, I can sometimes accommodate. You can arrange the times and dates before you purchase the voucher or the recipient can get in touch with me afterwards to make arrangements.

How long is the voucher valid for?

The vouchers are valid for 6 months from the date of issue. This can be extended under mitigating circumstances.

Where does the private tuition take place?

I teach one to one sessions in my home studio in Hersham, Surrey. It’s a good sized room and I have lots of craft books and crochet projects to help inspire you!

Under some circumstances, I am able to teach at the students home.

What is my teaching experience?

With a background in Art & Design and I working in product development, I’m naturally attracted to all things crafty and I absolutely LOVE sharing and teaching my passion for crochet. I have taught crochet now for over 10 years, since December 2013. I have taught regularly at the art centre in Walton-on-Thames, the Riverhouse Barn . I have also taught for the WI Surrey & for the Kennet Valley Guild of Spinners & Weavers. Over the years, I’ve acquired a steady stream of private, one to one clients, ranging from complete beginners to more advanced students that require help with specific techniques or patterns.
I can teach all levels from complete beginners to more advanced students.

Discounts for small group bookings

Would you like to learn to crochet with a friend or relative? I can accommodate up to 4 students at one time.
1 person : £60
2 people : £50 each
3 people : £45 each
4 people : £40 each

Everyone is welcome!

I warmly welcome everyone, regardless of sex, race or age… although there is a caveat to age : I predominantly teach adults. I am happy to teach young adults or children that are mature enough to concentrate and are willing to learn. With private tuition, I do ask that any child under 18 is accompanied by an adult.

Buy now!

Learn to crochet – Private Crochet Lessons in Surrey.

Please provide the names and addresses of all the gift voucher and starter pack recipients. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any queries.
£0.00
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Category: Crochet ClassesTag: crochet, crochet classes

Mesh Soap Bag – Free Crochet Pattern

September 13, 2019 //  by mezza//  Leave a Comment

This free mesh soap bag crochet pattern came about for two reasons. Firstly, I am actively trying to reduce my plastic use. One way I’ve done this is to switch from shower gels & hand wash to solid soap. I wanted a way to keep my soap in the shower yet prevent it from going soggy by hanging it away from the flow of the water. Secondly, I’d had multiple requests from students asking how to make a crocheted mesh market bag. So I decided to make a mesh soap saver as it incorporates most of the principles & design elements used in the market bags, just on a smaller scale. If you’ve never tried it before, this pattern is a good introduction to the crochet mesh stitch.

Small Steps To Environmentally Friendliness

More importantly, we can all help reduce plastic waste if we switch from plastic bottled liquid soaps, cleansers and shower gels to bar soaps. Please make this in cotton yarn as acrylic yarns can shed micro-plastics into the water supply. To be extra considerate, you may wish to check your soaps don’t contain palm oil or that the palm oil is at least grown and harvested in a sustainable fashion.

cotton crocheted mesh soap bag with soap, selection of colourful yarn and soaps and a handful of light wooden beads

The simple, cotton, mesh bag is available in two sizes & features a crocheted lucet tie-cord and a hanging loop to help your soap dry out between uses. It’s also a great way to store and use up small, leftover pieces of soap.

Size

The large soap bag is designed to fit a 6cm x 11cm x 2.5cm bar of soap & the small soap bag fits a 8cm x 5cm x 3cm however, the beauty of mesh means it’s very stretchy – either size would easily fit a smaller or even slightly larger bar of soap. Once you’ve mastered the basic principle, you can easily customise the size of the bag. In the same way, although the pattern is written for DK yarn you could easily switch to Aran or Worsted weight with an appropriate hook for a slightly larger size.

The large soap in the photos is made by Nesti Dante. The smaller, personalised soap is from Ella Wood – www.ella-wood.co.uk

three images showing empty brown crochet mesh soap bag & bar of soap, close up detail of the beaded cord and a circle of 7 crocheted bags

The pattern features written instructions as well as charts & photos. I have also made additional tutorials and YouTube videos for the picot stitch edging and the lucet cord.

Materials

You’ll need a small amount of DK cotton yarn, a 3.5mm hook and two wooden beads with large holes.

Please note, this pattern has not been tech edited. It has been tested during a mini workshop I ran in Norway. 6 students made this bag and we didn’t come across any issues. Everybody completed the pattern and ended up with a good looking soap bag!

Download Pattern

Get your free mesh soap bag crochet pattern from Ravelry – download now

Connect with me!

You can often find me on Instagram. Please do follow and tag me @mezzamay if you make one of my patterns, use one of my tips or stitch patterns. I really love to see what you’re making.

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Affiliate Links

I use affiliate links in my posts. If you click on a link and buy something I may receive a small commission, at no additional cost to you.

Support me!

If you have enjoyed my free content or have found my tips and techniques useful, please consider making a small donation by buying me a coffee via Ko-fi.

Category: Free Crochet PatternTag: crochet, free crochet patterns

New 4 Week Learn To Crochet Course – 21st September 2019

September 3, 2019 //  by mezza//  2 Comments

Do you want to learn to crochet?


I am running a new beginner’s course at the Riverhouse Arts Centre in Walton-on-Thames starting September 2019.

This course is for you if :

  • – You have never crocheted before.
    – You have crocheted in the past but are a bit rusty or you would like to build your confidence with basic stitches.
    – You are self taught either from books and/or the internet and want to clarify areas that you are unsure of or worried that you might be doing incorrectly.

I use a specially developed small project to teach you how to make a solid granny square.
You will learn all the essential techniques that can be applied to most basic projects such as:

  • choosing the right size hook and yarn
  • how to hold your hook and yarn
  • chaining
  • slip stitch, single & double crochet
  • how to make a square
  • how to change colours
  • how to join motifs using sewing and crochet
  • how to make a cord
  • how to finish off

The course includes:
4 x 2 hour practical classes, spread over 4 weeks.
All materials, including yarn, hooks and project bag.
Detailed class notes including photos to help you practise at home.
Email support during the duration of the course.

Course dates:
Saturday 21st September 2019 – Saturday 19th October 2019, 15:30 – 17:30. Please note: there is no class on Saturday 5th October.

Week 1: Saturday 21st September 2019, 15:30 – 17:30
Week 2: Saturday 28th September 2019, 15:30 – 17:30.
Week 3: Saturday 12th October 2019, 15:30 – 17:30.
Week 4: Saturday 19th October 2019, 15:30 – 17:30.

Cost: £60 (includes all the required materials)

Booking:
Please complete the online booking form from here. Full payment of the course is required to secure your place and places are given on a “first paid” basis.

What you might want to bring:

  • Notepad & pen.
  • Scissors.
  • Drink.

This is a great way to learn a new hobby in a friendly setting where you can meet other students with similar interests as well as supporting your local arts centre!

To express an interest or for more details, please contact me.

I also list my classes on Meetup.

FAQ:

Q: I would like to attend your course but I am not able to make all the classes.
A : You can still get a lot out of the course, even if you have to skip some of the weeks, however,  Week 1 & Week 2 are mandatory. The full cost of the course also applies, even if you can only make some of the classes.

Q: I do not need the starter kit as I have my own yarn and hooks.
A: After many years of teaching crochet to beginners, I have found that the hooks and yarn used make a massive difference to how easily the student picks up the technique and how much they enjoy the experience. Students that bring unsuitable equipment invariably end up frustrated so I have made the decision to provide and include all the materials in the cost of the course.

Q: I am a knitter. I’d like to crochet but I’m worried I won’t be able to.
A: Yes, I have come across this concern many times. There still seems to be a misconception that you either knit or crochet… of course you can do both! Often those with previous experience of knitting or other types of handicrafts can find picking up a new skill relatively easy.

Q: I use a wheelchair, is there wheelchair access to the studio?
A: Yes, there is a ramp into the studio. Please get in touch when you book and I will double check with the staff at the Riverhouse that everything is set up correctly for you.

Q: The dates of this course don’t suit me, will you be running another course and if so, when?
A: I usually run my beginners classes twice a year on Saturdays in September and January. If you are not free on Saturdays, I offer one-to-one classes from my home studio. I can also teach small, private groups of up to 4 people if you have friends/family that would like to join you. Please contact me for more information.

Category: Crochet ClassesTag: crochet, crochet classes

Crochet Lucet Cord Tutorial

August 5, 2019 //  by mezza//  Leave a Comment

Throughout the years I’ve taught crochet , there have been many projects where a cord is required (e.g. the mesh soap bag). There are many options for making cords and having tried various methods, I’ve found that the Crochet Lucet Cord or Four Sided Chain is my favourite option for the following reasons:

  1. You don’t need any special equipment – yes, you can make a lucet cord without a lucet!
  2. You can use the hook you’re already using for your project.
  3. The technique is easy to memorise.
  4. Once you get a rhythm going, the cord works up pretty quickly.
  5. It makes a firm and thick cord.
  6. The finished cord is flexible yet strong.
  7. It’s very attractive – it looks like a four sided chain.

Materials

  • Yarn – thicker is better for a good effect. I’m using a DK weight yarn doubled up (Paintbox Cotton DK in Melon Sorbet).
  • A crochet hook – in this example I’m using a 3.5mm hook (Clover Amour). Use a slightly smaller hook than you’d normally use for the yarn thickness otherwise the stitches in the cord can end up being too slack.

How much yarn will I need for my cord?

You’ll need about 9 x the finished length of your cord.
E.g. desired cord is 30cm /12 inches long, so I’ll need 2.7 m / 3 yards of yarn or 2 x 2.7 m / 3 yards if you’re doubling up.

Crochet Instructions

  • Wind off a separate ball of yarn from your main skein to make a double thickness thread – tie the ends together to keep them together to start with.
  • With the tail end to the left, lay the yarn on a flat surface in an “arc” shape (fig. 1).
  • Fold over the top of the arc (fig. 2) , to make 2 “loops”.
  • Insert the hook into the right loop, from above, then, coming from underneath, bring the hook up through the left loop (fig. 3) .
orange cotton dk yarn showing steps to making a crochet lucet cord
  • Pull the loops tight on the hook (fig. 4).
  • Rearrange the yarn – move the working end of the yarn over the left and hold the tail end as if to make a chain (fig. 5).
  • Yarn over and pull a loop through the first loop on the hook, i.e. ch1 with the left loop (fig. 5).
red crochet hook and orange cotton yarn showing how to make a crochet lucet cord
  • Carefully remove this loop from the hook (fig. 7).
  • Pinch this loop between your thumb and middle finger (or forefinger if you use your middle finger to feed the yarn) to stop it coming undone when you work the next stitch (fig. 8).
  • Ch1 with the right loop (fig. 9).
  • Replace the left loop on the hook (fig. 10)…
  • …and ch1 with the left loop (fig. 11).
  • Continue in this way, i.e. drop & hold left loop, ch1 right loop, replace left loop; ch1 left loop…until the cord measures desired length (fig. 12).
  • To finish off, after a ch1 left loop, yarn over and pull the yarn through both the left and right loops (fig. 13).
  • Cut the yarn, yarn over and pull through the loop on the hook and all the way out. Pull tight (fig. 14).
  • Tie a tight knot in each end and trim, or as in this example, you could also add a bead at each end for a decorative effect (fig. 15).
hands crocheting a lucet cord using yellow cotton yarn

TIP : To even out the cord, roll it between your fingers and pull it gently all along is length. This makes a big difference to the look of the cord – making it firmer and smoother.

You can also find a video of this technique on my YouTube channel:

Disclosure

I sometimes use affiliate links to my favourite yarns, hooks and other craft materials.

Category: Tips and TutorialsTag: crochet, crochet techniques, crochet tutorials

Perfect Crochet Picot Stitch – Tutorial

August 4, 2019 //  by mezza//  Leave a Comment

I’ve put together this tutorial showing you how to get the perfect picot stitch. When I first started crocheting, I struggled to get my picot stitches looking right… they didn’t stand up straight and they weren’t symmetrical. There are quite a few different ways to make a crochet picot stitch – you’ll be especially aware of this if you have ever made Irish Crochet. Eventually, after much trial and error, I started making them the way I’ll describe below – this method consistently gives me a satisfying, even, symmetrical and upright set of picots!

In the following crochet tutorial, I am adding the picot stitch trim to my “Mesh Soap Bag“, which is a free pattern.

3 Single Crochet & Chain 3 Picot Stitch Pattern

This is a simple stitch pattern of 3sc, ch3 picot. In the round it’s a 3 stitch repeat and worked flat it’s a 3 stitch repeat + 2.

The stitch pattern looks like this, in a chart format:

crochet chart showing symbols for a chain 3 picot stitch pattern

If you’re unfamiliar with crochet charts : the crosses are the single crochet stitches & the three loops and dot represent the chain 3 and slip stitch

chart showing 3 single crochet & chain 3 picot with the picot highlighted with a red circle

Instructions

Make 3sc and then make the picot as follows: chain 3, then hold the chain at the back of the work and into the last sc made FROM THE BACK OF THE STITCH, TO THE FRONT – slip stitch, pulling the slip stitch tight before proceeding with the pattern repeat, i.e. 3sc, ch3 picot … as many times are required!

I have also made a “Perfect Crochet Picot Stitch” video tutorial, which you can find here, on my Mezzamay YouTube channel:

Project Info

  • Yarn : Paintbox Yarn DK Cotton, in Melon Sorbet (417)
  • Hook : Clover Amour 3.5mm
  • Pattern : Mesh Soap Bag by Merrian Holland

Disclosure

I sometimes use affiliate links to my favourite yarns, hooks and other craft materials.

Category: Tips and TutorialsTag: crochet, crochet classes, crochet techniques

Tapestry Crochet – Day Course

August 2, 2019 //  by mezza//  Leave a Comment

I ran several 5 week tapestry crochet courses at the Riverhouse Barn Arts Centre in Walton-on-Thames where my students were able to make a full sized “Columbian bag” over the course of the weeks. They learnt all the basic techniques and were then encouraged to design their own bag or make one from a pattern. After many requests, I am now able to offer a Tapestry Crochet Day Course where you can learn some of the techniques used to create a Wayuu or “mochila” style bag. I have designed a cotton “mini-bag” project that incorporates many of these techniques so the student can practise and master this beautiful and very useful, crochet art-form.

Course Overview

  • Brief overview of bag construction & materials used.
  • How the bottom of the bag is made and basic principles of base design.
  • Getting started with your own bag.
  • Adding and changing colours – mastering the tapestry crochet stitch.
  • Making the sides of the bag – reading charts, designing your own patterns.
  • How to manage multiple skeins of yarn without tangling.
  • Making eyelets for the cord fastening.
  • Using crab stitch or reverse single crochet borders to reinforce and add stability and shape to the top and bottom of the bag.
  • Mastering two coloured crab stitch or reverse single crochet.
  • Making a simple cord.
  • How to make quick and easy tassels.
  • Tips for lining the bags.
  • Design options – examples of & ideas for projects using tapestry stitch.
three images showing the start of a crochet tapestry back, detail of a chevron design and tassels on a wayuu style bag

Schedule

Typically, the course is 5 hours long, with a 1 hour lunch break.
e.g. 10:00 – 12:30 Crochet, 12:30 – 13:30 Lunch, 13:30 – 16:00 Crochet

Class Size

I teach a maximum of 8 students in one class.

Class Format

All my classes come with detailed class notes and pattern. I provide samples and practical demonstrations of all techniques, helping and encouraging students with hands on assistance so that they can feel confident with their new found skills. Along with the class notes, the students should be able to continue & complete their mini project in the comfort of their own home, with relative ease. I am also happy to offer help by email, after the course, should any student have any questions.

Skill Level

Students must be competent with basic crochet techniques, particularly chaining & single crochet (UK double).

Three images showing crochet tutor and student, example of class notes and student crocheting a bag during class

Materials & Tools

I provide suitable cotton yarn for the project – I have a large selection of colours to choose from, so there should be something to suit all tastes.
The students will also need locking stitch markers and 2.5mm crochet hooks.
I can provide all of the above separately or as a kit, which can be incorporated into the overall cost of the course or as an extra payment on the day, per student.

Areas Covered

I am based in Surrey, and I’m willing to travel to London and most of the home counties. I have taught in Buckinghamshire, London, Berkshire, Middlesex & Sussex. I’ am always happy to consider locations further afield.

Fees & Availability

Please message me through my contact form for my fee structure and availability for this Tapestry Crochet Day Course.

Category: Colour Work, Crochet, Crochet Classes, Crochet Day CoursesTag: crochet, crochet classes

Criss Cross Cotton Facecloth – Free Crochet Pattern & Video

June 17, 2019 //  by mezza//  Leave a Comment

Here is my free crochet washcloth pattern, however, please don’t let the “wordyness” of the pattern or length of the video put you off! This really is a quick and easy crochet project which makes the perfect gift or colour coordinated accessorise for your home.

I’m not even sure how I managed to make a 45 minute video just about a flannel but hopefully you might find some of my explanations, demonstrations and tips useful.

I’ve included a menu here of where you can find the key points in the video in case you have neither the time or inclination to watch the whole thing.

Free Crochet Washcloth Pattern Details

A simple facecloth in single crochet – made special with a slip stitch surface design in a contrasting colour & finished with a textured, reverse single crochet border. Make it in soft cotton for the perfect, colour coordinated bathroom accessory. I have also made pairs of flannels, in opposite colours, with matching, handmade soap as gifts.

Pattern Format: 
Pattern is written in US crochet terminology and includes photos and mini tutorials for some of the techniques involved. A video is also available here.

Gauge: 
Gauge is 16 sts & 20 rows in single crochet.

Finished dimensions: 
If you crochet to gauge, the flannel is a generous 28cm x 28cm.

Materials:

  • Aran or Worsted Cotton Yarn in 2 colours (each cloth uses 106.0 meters / 115.9 yards in Colour A & 48.5 meters / 53.0 yards in Colour B).
  • Hook – 4mm
  • Tapestry or wool needle.
  • Stitch markers or scrap yarn.

Make to sell: 
You may make these wash-cloths to sell, either for charity or personal profit if you are a small scale crafter. All I ask is that you place the following text credit, either in your online listing or on a small piece of paper with the finished item: Design from www.mezzacraft.com

Other standard copyright laws apply.

Download Pattern

From Ravelry
From www.mezzacraft.com

Video Index

  • Starting chain 2:10
  • Single Crochet edging 6:30
  • Marking the horizontal lines 18:00
  • How to Slip Stitch Crochet horizontally on the fabric 20:45
  • Marking the vertical lines 26:10
  • How to Slip Stitch Crochet vertically on the fabric 27:45
  • Slip Stitch Crochet intersection 29:15
  • How to make the Crab Stitch / Reverse Single Crochet border 33:20
  • Finishing the horizontal & vertical Slip Stitch lines & sew in ends 43:50

I love to hear from you, so if you have made my free crochet washcloth pattern, please do share! I’m on Instagram as @mezzamay – mark your projects #mezzacraftcrochet !

I’m also happy to receive any feedback you may have about my patterns.

Thank you!

Category: Free Crochet PatternTag: crochet, crochet techniques, free crochet patterns

Mini Crochet Pumpkins – Free Pattern QUICK & EASY

April 28, 2019 //  by mezza//  Leave a Comment

This little crochet pumpkin pattern goes back to 2017. I wrote it as a little side project for my crochet students. The original prototypes I made are still in my son’s toy box and every now and then when I see one kicking around, I think to myself “I must publish this pattern one day”. Yesterday, my youngest son’s 2 year old cousin came to play. He found a little pumpkin in Marco’s toy box and carried it around for most of his visit! So thank you Javier, you have inspired me!

I have two sizes here, but once you get the basic concept, you can easily make different sizes and experiment with different thicknesses of yarn and corresponding hook sizes – generally speaking, you need a smaller hook size than you’d normally use to get a tighter gauge so that your stuffing doesn’t fall out!

Pattern (US Crochet Terminology)

Materials:

  • DK Yarn ( I have used Paintbox Yarns Cotton DK) – colours are Peach Orange (455) & Coffee Bean (411)
  • 2.5mm Hook (my favourite hooks are Clover Amour)
  • Small amount of toy stuffing (I like to use a natural product such as Kapok but you could also use cotton wool for such a small project).
  • Tapestry or wool needle.

Key:

  • beg – beginning
  • ch – chain
  • dc – double crochet
  • inc – increase (2sc in one stitch)
  • rem – remaining
  • sc – single crochet
  • st(s)– stitch(es)
  • sl st – slip stitch

Size:

Approx 5cm / 2″ x 5cm / 2″ including the stalk.


Crochet Instructions

Row 1 : Leaving a long tail (approx 12cm or 5 inches), ch13, working into the back ridges only, dc in 3rd ch from hook; dc into each remaining ch. (12 sts)

Row 2 : ch2, turn work, without skipping any sts at the beginning of the row, dc into each st to end. (12 sts)

Note – the ch2 at the beginning of this and all subsequent rows is not counted as a stitch, nor will you ever work into it.

Repeat row 2 until it’s square (fig.1) – you can check this by folding the corner with the tail up towards its opposite side (fig.2).

Now, count how many rows you have made. Times this by 1.5 (round up where necessary). This is how many more rows you need to crochet.

e.g. my piece was square at 5 rows. So 5 x 1.5 = 7.5. Round that up to 8. Add that to the rows I’ve already made = 13 rows in total.

Once you’ve made the required number of rows, fold the strip in half so the top and bottom are lined up.
Ch1 and join with sc, going through both loops of the front and back stitches simultaneously (fig. 3).

Once you’ve finished seaming, fasten off, leaving a nice long tail for gathering the top of the pumpkin (fig. 4). Turn inside out so the crochet seam in on the inside.

seaming two edges of crochet together with single crochet and leaving a long tail

Thread the tail onto a needle and sew a running stitch through the first and last stitches of the rows – here I’ve done approximately one stitch per row (fig. 5).

Now pull the thread tight, gathering the top of the pumpkin together as tightly as possible. Fasten securely and sew the tail inside the pumpkin (fig. 6).

sewing and gathering the bottom of the crocheted pumpkin

Thread the tail at the other end and sew a running stitch along the first and last stitches of the rows, as before.
Stuff the pumpkin with Kapok or your choice of toy stuffing (fig. 7).

Pull the thread tight and fasten off securely. Weave in ends. (fig. 8)

stuffing the crochet pumpkin with kapok and sewing up the end

Stalk

Row 1 : Leaving a long tail, ch7 (fig. 9), working into the back ridges, sc 2nd ch from hook; sc into each remaining ch.

Row 2 : ch1, turn work, sc into each st (fig. 10).

Join : ch1 fold work along longest side and then sl st the sides together. Because the slip stitch has a tighter gauge, it should cause your stalk to curve
(fig. 11) . Leave another long tail and fasten off.

Use these long tails to attach the stalk to the pumpkin by threading through the top gathered hole all the way through the middle to the bottom. Secure by sewing and knotting. You can even make a French knot with your needle to make the little nodule at the bottom of the pumpkin (fig. 12).

crocheting a stalk out of brown yarn and bottom of a small pumpkin with a french knot

Weave in all ends.

For a slightly larger sized pumpkin

Make as above but chain 17 to start with. For the stalk, ch8.

Category: Easy, Free, Free Crochet Pattern, Pattern, TutorialTag: crochet, free crochet patterns

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