Free Crochet Patterns, Crochet Classes & Techniques

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Cartwheels & Clovers Crochet Top – 3ply Linen Version

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Recent updates to this page:

02/08/23 – Page created

Thank you so much for showing an interest in my crochet work. I really appreciate your support and I’m happy to share some of my processes here with you in case you fancy having a go yourself at making a top using the motif.

***THIS PAGE IS A WORK IN PROGRESS***

My pattern has not been tested or tech edited. If you embark on the creative journey of crocheting a garment with these notes, please see these instructions as more of a “recipe” to help you make your own unique item.

I will be editing and adding tips, videos and photo tutorials to this page so if you come back once in a while, you might find more useful stuff.

Project Overview – Green Linen Top

Construction : square motifs which are connected with the “join as you go” method in the last round. Neck shaping is created with partial motifs.
Simple borders on the neck, arms & hem.
The side seams have a “shared motif”, meaning a full motif wraps around with half the motif on the front panel and half on the back.
Shape & Fit : a loose, rectangular, sleeveless tee with split hems. I measure 91cm/36 inches around the chest and I’m about 171cm/5′ 7″ tall.
Finished Size : 68cm / 26.7″ across, 136cm / 53.5″ around chest, 58cm /22.8″ long.
Materials : 3 x 100g skeins (1,350 metres / 1,476 yards) of Lithuanian Linen from Midwinter Yarns in Avocado.
Tools : 2.25mm hook & locking stitch markers.

Resources

Scroll down to find a list of videos and pdf tutorials currently available. I recommend using the written instructions in conjunction with the videos (where available).

Choosing Your Yarn & Hook Size

Because these are quite large motifs with some relatively large open spaces, I would not recommend using anything thicker than 4py for making a garment. The thinner the yarn, the more flexibility you will have with sizing. These notes cover making the top in 3ply/heavy lace but you can apply the same principles if you use 2ply/laceweight or any of the finer crochet threads which will probably give even better results.

Swatching

You will need to start by making a swatch of 2×2 motifs.
As a guide:
For the 3ply/heavy lace yarn, I have used a 2.25mm hook.
Hook size will vary from person to person depending on your gauge, the way you crochet and how “thick” your yarn is within it’s given yarn group, which can vary from one brand to the next, i.e. some 4ply could almost be classed as DK and some are very thin 4ply, could almost be a heavy lace weight.

This part is really important : You will need to wash, block and allow your 4 motif section to dry before measuring so that you have the most accurate measurements. Check the size of your motifs. If you want to make the same size as mine, your squares will need to come out the same size.

Motifs & Join

You can find the main motif and joining techniques by clicking on the links below. Note: these are for the 4ply version but are no different for this 3ply version, however, the layout and some of the motifs are different:

Downloadable pdf for motif & joining technique.
Video for motif.
Video for joining.

Schematics, Layouts & Construction

Here are some details about the tops I have made, including overall sizes, placement of motifs and yarn weights/yardage and hook sizes:

General advice (video), made before I had completed the 3ply version, so this will be updated eventually.
Layout & Construction (pdf) – Summary for 3ply Version.

Neck Shaping

Neck motifs & border (pdf).
Neck motifs & border (video), see below.

Split Motif

This motif is used for making the split in the sides of the hem if you are using half motifs.

Split Motif – instructions (PDF).
Video coming soon.

Triangle Motif

This is used as an underarm gusset and to reduce the width of the sleeve opening.
Triangle Motif – instructions (PDF)

Joining Front to Back – Arm Holes & Side Split

Coming Soon.

Hem Border

Video below:

Sleeve / Armhole Border

Making the border for the “sleeve” – instructions (PDF)

Video below:

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3-3-3 Easy Chevron Stitch Crochet Pattern

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Easy Chevron Stitch Crochet Pattern. This is an easy to remember ripple stitch that can be applied to projects such as blankets, or in this example, a washcloth. I created this version of the very popular chevron stitch back in 2014 for a class of new crochet students that had just finished my learn to crochet course. It’s a great way to start understanding how increases and decreases can shape crochet fabric.

If you’re thinking of making a blanket, you can use the instructions for the washcloth to make a swatch with your desired yarn.

Download a pdf version of the pattern, including chart: click here.

Detailed video tutorial here:

Tools & Materials

Yarn & hook: Worsted/Aran weight cotton yarn – 4mm/H Hook

Yardage per washcloth: 50g/106m/116yds  

Finished dimensions: Approx – 25cm/9.8” x 25cm/9.8”  

Finished size & yardage will vary depending on hook size, yarn thickness & your personal gauge.

Alternative Yarn Thickness
You can also try DK weight yarn with a 3.5mm hook which will result in a slightly smaller cloth.

Key
beg beginning
ch chain
dcdouble crochet
prevprevious
st(s)stitch(es)

Yarn Ideas

The Cotton – We Are Knitters

Shiny Happy Cotton – Wool & the Gang

Rico Organic Cotton Aran

Paintbox Cotton Yarn Aran

3-3-3 Easy Chevron Stitch Crochet Pattern for Washcloth – Instructions

Note: these instructions are in US crochet terminology.

Row 1: Ch44; sk3 chs (counts as 1dc), working into the back ridges of the 4th chain, 1dc; (1dc into each of the next 3chs; dc3tog; 1dc into each of the next 3chs; 3dc in next ch) x 3; 1dc into each of the next 3chs; dc3tog; 1dc into each of the next 3chs; 2dc in last ch. (counting the last 3chs of starting ch as 1stitch – 41sts)

Going forward, 2chs are made at the start of each row, these do not count as a stitch, nor are they ever worked into.

Switch to working through both loops of the stitch throughout.

Row 2: ch2, turn the work, do not sk any sts, 2dc in 1st st; (1dc into each of the next 3sts; dc3tog; 1dc into each of the next 3sts; 3dc in next st) x 3; 1dc into each of the next 3sts; dc3tog; 1dc into each of the next 3sts; 2dc in next last st which is the 3rd ch of the ch3 skipped at the start of Row 1. (41sts)

Row 3: ch2, turn the work, do not sk any sts, 2dc in 1st st; (1dc into each of the next 3sts; dc3tog; 1dc into each of the next 3sts; 3dc in next st) x 3; 1dc into each of the next 3sts; dc3tog; 1dc into each of the next 3sts; 2dc in last st. (41sts)

Repeat Row 3 as desired and fasten off. For my washcloth, I needed 17 rows to make it square.

Note : if you want to use this stitch to make a larger cloth or even a blanket, you will need to add multiples of 10 to the starting chain for each additional pattern repeat.

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. Don’t forget to use #mezzamay 🙂

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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.

No Holes Small Solid Granny Square Pattern

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I designed the “No Holes Small Solid Granny Square Pattern” motif because I wanted a solid granny square that was properly square with sharp corners and no holes. Additionally, I needed a small motif that would be suitable for using the mini skeins I had from www.lottieknits.com. The beautiful hand dyed mini skeins are “Little Bird Sock” which is a 80% Superwash Merino and 20% Nylon blend that crochets up beautifully, holding the shape of the stitches well and offering good drape for clothing without bulk.

The mini skeins I had were quite vivid colours. I had accumulated more than a dozen different colours, so I selected all the pinks, purples and oranges to pair with a solid black yarn to make them really stand out. Putting a dark border on the “No Holes Small Solid Granny Square Pattern” and joining lots of them together in a random colour sequence gives a beautiful paint box effect.

a collage of three images - all on a white backgreound. The first image shows a solid, no holes granny square in variegated purple yarn with a thick black border. The second image shows the hem of a dress made with bright crochet motifs in reds, pinks and oranges and three motifs without border. The third image shows part of a crochet dress made with the same motifs.

Tools & Materials:

You can use any yarn weight and corresponding hook size but for these instructions, I have used the following:

This motif works best with a natural fibre that can be blocked to retain its shape.

Finished dimensions:

5cm x 5cm / 2” x 2”

With three round border – 11cm x 11cm / 4.3” x 4.3”

Important Note:

To achieve the desired effect of the “No Holes Small Solid Granny Square Pattern”, this design features some slight changes to a traditional granny square or even other motifs you may have previously made.

The main differences to take note of are:

  1. After Round 1 you turn the work and make the next round on the “wrong side”. This helps minimise the line or “step” that’s created when a new round is crocheted into the “right side” of the previous round and in effect visually softens the line between the first and second rounds.
  2. The start and end of Round 2 is slightly unusual. It starts with a partial corner with the first proper stitch being worked into the slip stitch that joined the previous round. The final stitch of the round is placed into the same stitch as the slip stitch from the previous round, i.e. the 4th chain of the beginning chain 4 from round 1. This can be tricky to work back into but it’s important to make the last stitch in this chain rather than working around the chain which will leave a visible hole.
  3. The final round is best finished with an invisible bind off.

None of the above may make any sense to you right now, but don’t worry, it’s not a difficult motif – follow the downloadable instructions below and use the video for extra help if you need it!

No Holes Small Solid Granny Square – Instructions

Download the pdf instructions by clicking on the image below.

front cover of pdf crochet pattern for a small solid granny square with no holes. On a white background there is a small section of a dress made with colourful square motifs with a solid black border. An outstretched hand has three crochet motifs balanced on the palm in orange and purple

What I made!

I made a dress with this motif. Although there is not pattern for this dress, I can teach you how to make your own. Join my next guided online course, to design and make your own granny square sweater: sign up for the waitlist.

Did you crochet it?

I hope you like my No Holes Small Solid Granny Square Pattern – if you give it a try, please let me know!

Connect with me!

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

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Affiliate Links

I use affiliate links in my posts usually for Amazon & Lovecrafts. If you click on a link and buy something I may receive a small commission. This is 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.

Beaded Tealight Holder Crochet Pattern

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This Beaded Tealight Holder Crochet Pattern is the perfect way to upcycle Gü & Bon Maman glass ramekins. Scroll down to download step by step instructions or to view video instructions to make these beautiful handmade homewares!

The evolution of this beaded tealight holder crochet pattern is rather circuitous. I was asked to run a private crochet class to teach the mesh stitch so the students could learn how to make a re-usable shopping bag. The class would only be 2 hours long which would not be enough time to make a bag. I do like to make sure that my stand alone classes allow the students to walk away with a finished product. How could I create a mini project that would incorporate some of the elements required to make a bag?

10g of Yarn, Re-purposed Ramekins & Abandoned Beads

As it happened, I had also bought a selection of the “Yarn & Colors Mini Must Haves” on a whim a few weeks previously, not really having any idea what to make with them. At the same time, a rather large stack of empty Gü ramekins were creating a perilous booby trap, ready to go off at any time, in one of my kitchen cupboards. I was also emptying out the remnants of stuff my daughter had left in her room after moving to the US and found several packets of Preciosa Candy Mix beads that she obviously no longer wanted. In the back of my mind, I started to wonder if these three elements could be combined to make something useful… and I also wanted the challenge of creating a complete object with only one of the tiny, 10g mini balls!

Many hours were spent experimenting, getting the pattern just right so that it would fit the glass ramekins and also use only one of the mini skeins.

I ran this as a course at the Riverhouse Barn Arts Centre in Walton. Unfortunately, I never ran the private class as the interested party pulled out at the last minute. I was really looking forward to running the class and had also purchased more yarn, beads, hooks, tealights and elastic bands. Enough to make up 6 kits with 3 tea lights in each. Luckily, I did manage to sell some of the kits during the first lockdown and then my lovely friend Dee, from Dee Opp Yoga placed an order for a set of 10 beaded tealight holders which meant I did make back the money I had spent on materials.

The pattern is for the standard Gü ramekins, which are tapered. The pattern also includes instructions at the end for the ramekins with straight sides which are ever so slightly bigger.

The Preciosa Candy Mix beads are now discontinued but I will list some alternatives below.

A Perfect Gift for Friends & Family

Once you get the hang of the pattern, these crocheted tea light covers work up pretty quickly. With a huge range of yarn colours and beads, you can make endless combinations to match any decor. I have made dozens of these now as thank you gifts and birthday or Christmas presents. People are always delighted with a beautiful and unique handmade gift.

Tools & Materials – Per Holder

  • 3ply or 4ply Cotton Yarn, 10g / 25m (27yds).
  • Hook – 2.5mm / C/2 (Clover Amour are my favourite).
  • Glass jar with a diameter of 7.5cm & height of 4.5cm (Gü cheesecake ramekins with slightly tapered sides).
  • 125 x Small glass or crystal beads with a hole big enough to thread the yarn through, see section below about beads.
  • Tea light.
  • Elastic band that fits snuggly around the top of the jar, no thicker than 4mm. Approx. 5cm diameter works well.
  • Tapestry or wool needle.

Beads

The Czech crystal beads in the photo tutorials are from Preciosa in “Jelly Candy Mix”. They are a square cut bead. 3.4 x 3.4mm with a 1.1mm hole. I used about 10g per jar.

Other suitable beads include:

  • Miyuki Delica Size 8.
  • Toho Seed Beads Size 6.

I bought these from eBay.

Beaded Tealight Holder Crochet Pattern – Instructions

You can purchase the pattern from:

LoveCrafts

Ravelry

front cover of free beaded tealight crochet pattern showing colourful cotton designs

Larger Ramekin

hands hold two empty glass ramekins - one is Gu and one Bon Maman

For the supermarket own brand & Bon Maman puddings in a similar glass ramekin, you’ll need to modify the pattern ever so slightly because the glass dishes are a tad bigger- instructions are on the last page of the download. For these I used Miyuki Delica Size 8 which are crystal beads in a Rose Gold colour. I also added extra beads around the trim on the last row. These were a Christmas gift for my mum.

Did you crochet it?

I hope you like my Beaded Tealight Holder Crochet Pattern – if you give it a try, please let me know!

Connect with me!

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

Newsletter

Why not sign up to my newsletter to receive news about my latest patterns, tutorials and courses!

Affiliate Links

I use affiliate links in my posts usually for Amazon & Lovecrafts. If you click on a link and buy something I may receive a small commission. This is 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.

Half Claremont Granny Square with Join

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Here are the instructions for the half Claremont granny square with join.

This half motif is a useful option for lengthening the sleeves and body of a garment where one full motif would be too much. I have used the half motif to do just that for this version of my Claremont Sweater. You could just as easily use it to make a blanket or table runner to a more exact size.

You can find the instructions & video tutorial for the full Claremont motif here : Full Claremont Granny Square with Join.

white cotton hand made crochet sweater detail, showing the half motif on cuffs and hem

Tools & Materials

You can use any yarn weight and corresponding hook size but for these instructions (see examples below), I am using a Light DK / Sport weight yarn in one colour with a 4mm / G hook (Paintbox Yarn DK Cotton in Champagne White).

Half Claremont Victorian Style Granny Square with Join – Instructions & Chart

For written instructions with photo tutorials and chart, please download the PDF from my FREE Crochet Motif Directory

front cover of pdf pattern for half claremont granny square motif

Video Tutorial – Victorian style half granny square with join

Did you crochet it?

I hope you like my Half Claremont Granny Square Pattern – if you give it a try, please let me know!

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.

Newsletter

Why not sign up to my newsletter to receive news about my latest patterns, tutorials and courses!

Affiliate Links

I use affiliate links in my posts usually for Amazon & Lovecrafts. 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.

Claremont Granny Square with Join – Free Crochet Pattern

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UPDATE: If you want to make your own custom sweater using this motif, I now run an online, guided course to design & make your own granny square sweater. It includes this Claremont motif and lots more! Sign up for the waitlist here: Online Granny Square Sweater Course – Join Waitlist

Claremont is a Victorian style granny square with join. I have used it to make 2 different sweater designs which I made as part of my “Design & Make Your Own Sweater Course”. It looks fantastic in a classic, off white cotton but would also look good in any, solid colour. With a simple border, I think this motif would make a beautiful throw or blanket.

a montage of 3 images showing a woman with long hair wearing a white cotton crochet sweater made with a victorian style granny square

Tools & Materials

You can use any yarn weight and corresponding hook size but for these instructions (see examples below), I am using a Light DK / Sport weight yarn in one colour with a 4mm / G hook (Paintbox Yarn DK Cotton in Champagne White).

When making a project with this motif, for the best results, use one, solid colour. The mesh style join creates an attractive design element along the edges and at the corners of motif, especially where four motifs converge.  If you use different colours for each motif, this effect is lost.

white claremont victorian crochet motif in 4ply. dk and aran worsted yarn

Claremont Victorian Style Granny Square with Join – Instructions & Chart

For written instructions with photo tutorials and chart, please download the pdf here.

front cover of pdf crochet pattern for Victorian style granny square with join

Video Tutorial – Victorian style granny square with join

Half Motif

For instructions on how to make the half motif, please click here (opens in new tab).

Did you crochet it?

I hope you like my Claremont Granny Square Pattern – if you give it a try, please let me know!

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.

Newsletter

Why not sign up to my newsletter to receive news about my latest patterns, tutorials and courses!

Affiliate Links

I use affiliate links in my posts usually for Amazon & Lovecrafts. 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.

How to Make a 2-1-2 Granny Square with Video

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How to Make a 2-1-2 Granny Square with Video & written instructions. You can also download a pdf pattern below.

This is a 5 round, traditional granny square, using three colours. Colour A is used for 2 rounds, colour B for 1 round and colour C for 2 rounds, hence 2-1-2! Traditionally, granny squares were made to use up scrap yarn and each round would be a different colour and inevitably resulted in lots of ends to sew in! This pattern still gives the opportunity to use multiple colours but there are a few less ends to weave in, 4 less in fact!

Tools & Materials

three granny squares crocheted in pink, brown and teal. A skein of dark turquoise yarn on a background of granny squares. A project bag featuring a lama with a partially made crochet motif and orange hook.

You can use any yarn weight and corresponding hook size but for these instructions. I am using a 4ply / Fingering weight yarn in three colours – A, B & C with a 3mm / D hook. This makes a motif that is 8cm x 8cm / 3.1” x 3.1”. Bear in mind a thicker yarn and larger hook size will result in a bigger motif.

The yarn I have used is Merino Nylon blend 4ply from www.FruitfulFusion.co.uk

The blues and browns are from a mini skein set called “City of Bridges”. The pink is “Mango”.

How to Make a 2-1-2 Granny Square with Video

2-1-2 Granny Square Pattern – Download

Download a pdf of the pattern here. Includes a chart.

How to Make a 2-1-2 Granny Square – Instructions

Round 1 : With colour A, ch4 & join with a sl st in 1st ch to form a ring; ch5*(counts as 1dc & ch2sp); working into the ring, (3dc, ch2) 3 times (see fig. 2); 2dc; sl st into 3rd ch of beg ch5. Do not fasten off (4 x 3dc clusters, 4 x ch2 corners) (see fig. 3)

*Note : If, like me, making a ch5 gives your finishing corner a significantly larger “hole” than the other corners,  switch to a ch4 here and then finish with a sl st in 3rd ch of this ch4 to make the hole match the others. You can use this switch for the start of every round if it suits your gauge better.

three images showing the steps of the first round of a crochet granny square in a variegated brown yarn

Round 2 : Continuing with colour A, sl st into next ch2 sp; ch5(counts as 1dc & ch2sp), in the same sp, 3dc; in next corner space (3dc, ch2, 3dc) 3 times; in first corner sp, 2dc; sl st into 3rd ch of beg ch5. Fasten off (8 x 3dc clusters, 4 x ch2 corners) (see fig. 4)

Round 3 : Join colour B in any corner sp, except where the prev rnd ended; ch5(counts as 1dc & ch2sp), in the same sp, 3dc; (between the next 2 sets of 3dc, make 3dc; in corner sp, 3dc, ch2, 3dc) 3 times; between the next 2 sets of 3dc, make 3dc; in first corner sp, 2dc; sl st into 3rd ch of beg ch5. Fasten off (12 x 3dc clusters, 4 x ch2 corners) (see fig. 5)

rounds 3, 4 & 5 of the granny square in teal and mango pink using an orange Clover amour crochet hook

Round 4 : Join colour C in any corner sp, except where the prev rnd ended; ch5(counts as 1dc & ch2sp), in the same sp, 3dc; [(between the next 2 sets of 3dc, make 3dc) 2 times; in corner sp, 3dc, ch2, 3dc] 3 times; (between the next 2 sets of 3dc, make 3dc) 2 times; in first corner sp, 2dc; sl st into 3rd ch of beg ch5. Do not fasten off  (16 x 3dc clusters, 4 x ch2 corners) (see fig. 6)

Round 5 : Continuing with colour C, sl st into next ch2 sp; ch5(counts as 1dc & ch2sp), in the same sp, 3dc; [(between the next 2 sets of 3dc, make 3dc) 3 times; in corner sp, 3dc, ch2, 3dc] 3 times; (between the next 2 sets of 3dc, make 3dc) 3 times; in first corner sp, 2dc; sl st into 3rd ch of beg ch5. Fasten off  (20 x 3dc clusters, 4 x ch2 corners) (see fig. 7)

Half / Triangle Motif

For instructions for making a half/triangle version of this motif, please visit this page : How to Make a Half / Triangle 2-1-2 Granny Square – Mezzacraft – Sharing the Art of Crochet

Granny Square Sweater Project

I have used these squares to make a granny square jumper/sweater on the bias, using a granny stitch border to join all the motifs together! I have called this the “Fruitful Granny Sweater” because all the yarns were dyed by the talented Ishrat from www.fruitfulfusion.co.uk . This sweater is part of my “Design & Make Your Own Granny Square Sweater” course which I am running at the Riverhouse Barn Arts Centre in Walton-on-Thames is September this year (2021). This course will also be run as a guided online course in November if you would like to take part but are unable to attend in person. Please sign up to my newsletter below to be notified of sign-ups.

Woman with long hair sits on the grass in a green garden wearing a hand made crochet granny square sweater in pink, brown and teal.

Did you crochet it?

I hope you like my 2-1-2 Granny Square Pattern – if you give it a try, please let me know!

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.

Newsletter

Why not sign up to my newsletter to receive news about my latest patterns, tutorials and courses!

Affiliate Links

I use affiliate links in my posts usually for Amazon & Lovecrafts. 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.

Perforated Pin Stripes Crochet Stitch

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I’m going to show you how to make this very simple, but effective stitch pattern. I’ve coined it the “Perforated Pin Stripes Crochet Stitch” pattern, and it’s quite a simple crochet stitch combination. Click here to jump straight to the instructions. It only uses US double crochets (UK trebles) and US half doubles (UK half trebles). What I really like about it, is that it’s not a completely solid fabric – it has, what I call perforations, so it’s also not too open and therefore, it’s quite good for garments where you don’t want a totally solid stitch pattern, but at the same time, you want a bit of modesty that you might not get with a very lacy pattern.

close up of crocheted vest top in pinstripe crochet stitch pattern from mezzacraft ...worn by mezza

I designed this stitch pattern for a summer top. The top is crocheted from side to side so I’ve actually used the stitch pattern vertically which gives this nice, pinstripe effect. The top is crocheted with a 4ply yarn in a wool/silk blend and a 2.75mm hook, a combination that gives a really nice drape for a garment. Additionally, because of the way light shines on silk, it means that these horizontal stitches catch the light slightly differently to the vertical stitches which just gives a really interesting texture.

You can, of course, use different thicknesses of yarn and larger hook sizes.

Same stitch, different yarn!

Here you can see that the different yarns, thicknesses and hook size do generate quite different kinds of fabric that you could use for lots of different crochet projects. For example, the Aran/Worsted weight would make quite a nice cowl or even a hat. The stitch in DK could make a lovely baby blanket since the holes in the fabric are not big enough for babies’ fingers to get stuck in. You can see a stitch in a whole new light when you change the type of yarn and the hook size – each one catches the light differently and shows the stitches up in a slightly different way.

perforated pinstripes crochet stitch - sample in4ply/fingering weight yarn

4ply/Fingering

For the 4ply swatch, I’ve used a 2.5mm hook for the starting chain and a 2.75mm hook for the main stitch pattern.
The gauge is : 24sts and 13 rows to 10cm (4”).
Yarn details : Posh Yarn Undyed Dorothy Sock (50% Superwash Merino, 50% Silk) www.poshyarn.co.uk

pintripe crochet stitch in double knit yarn

DK (double knit or heavy Sport weight)

For the double knit swatch, I’ve used a 3mm hook for the starting chain and a 3.5 mm hook for the main stitch pattern.
The gauge is : 22sts and 12 rows to 10cm (4”).
Yarn details : MillaMia Naturally Soft Merino in Putty Grey (121)

simple perforated crochet stitch in worsted weight yarn

Aran / Worsted

For the Aran swatch, I’ve used a 4mm hook for the starting chain and 4.5mm hook for the main stitch pattern.
The gauge is : 18sts and 9 rows to 10cm (4”).
Yarn details : Rico Essentials Soft Merino Aran in Cream (61)

The Importance of Swatching

I wanted to make the same top again but this time in some 4ply cotton.  I crocheted up a swatch but didn’t like the drape of the fabric – it was very stiff at the correct gauge. There can be quite a lot variation in yarn thickness from one brand of 4ply to another which isn’t all that evident until you actually work it up. And that’s one of the reasons why I always suggest swatching, especially when you’re making garments, because it’s not just about getting the gauge spot on so that the item will fit you, it’s also about just seeing whether you actually like the fabric that will result in using the stitch pattern, the yarn, the hook size and getting the gauge.

Remember to wash and block your swatch too. This is particularly important if you are making a garment as the gauge, because drape and stitch definition of the fabric can alter considerably, especially with natural fibres.

Matching Chain and Stitch Gauge

two crochet swatching showing the difference in using a smaller hook for the starting chain

One thing I need to point for this stitch pattern and the resulting top that I made, is that I had to go down a hook size for the starting chain because it didn’t match the gauge of the main stitch pattern. You might be fortunate in that the gauge for your starting chain and swatch match but you won’t really know this before you start so this is another reason why it’s really important to swatch because this is the kind of thing that can show up that you might not have thought about.
So here you can see another swatch sample that I crocheted up. I used the same hook size for the starting chain as I did for the main body of the stitches. What you’ll notice is that the starting chain doesn’t match the gauge of the stitches, i.e. the gauge is bigger, resulting in the bottom edge of my swatch being distorted and too wide. If you’re making a garment or a blanket and you use the same size hook for the chain as the stitches, you’re going to end up with the bottom or edge, depending on where you’ve started being much too long. So in the case of the top, it means one of your side seams will be out of proportion.
To correct the disparity between the gauges, I used a 2mm hook for the starting chain and then for row one, I switched to the 2.75mm, which gave me matching gauges. For the other swatches in this post, I only went down 0.5mm in hook size. You might need a small amount of trial an error. I am a big advocate for adding hooks in in the smaller, 0.25mm increments to your collection, because these can often be the key to getting correct gauge for garments.

Perforated Pin Stripes Crochet Stitch – Instructions

You can find video instructions here which includes lots of additional tips. Check the comment under the video for the timestamp, click to jump straight to the stitch pattern instructions:

Downloadable Instructions

Download a .pdf here, which includes a stitch chart : Perforated Pin Stripes Crochet Stitch – Instructions

Tools & Materials

You can use any yarn weight and corresponding hook size. For these instructions, I am using a 4ply/sock weight yarn with 2.5mm hook for the starting chain and switching to a 2.75mm hook for the main stitch pattern.

Stitch pattern repeat

3 – so to make a larger piece of fabric, increase your starting chain in increments of 3.

TIP : Try to keep the chains true to hook size, i.e. when you crochet, keep the loop exactly the same size as the diameter of the hook, rather than extending the loop. For this particular pattern, it keeps the stitches really neat, minimizes the gaps between the tall stitches and enhances the effect of the “perforations”.

Start with the smaller hook, ch 26.

Row 1 (RS): Working into the back ridge of the chain, dc into the 4th ch from the hook, 1dc into each ch. (24sts, counting the turning ch)

Row 2 (WS): ch2, don’t sk any stitches; 1hdc; *sk1st 1hdc in each of the next 2sts, 1hdc around 2hdc just made*; repeat from *to* until 2sts rem; sk1st, 1hdc in last st (which was the ch3 turning ch of Row 1). (7 sets of wrapped hdcs, 8 perforations)

Note: from now on, at the start of every round, there’s going to be a ch2 turning chain. This chain is never worked into, nor is it ever counted as a stitch.

Row 3 (RS): ch2, 1dc into 1st st; *1dc in sp; 1dc into each of 2 wrapped hdcs*; repeat from *to* until 2sts rem; 1dc in last sp; 1dc in last st. (24sts)

Row 4 (WS): ch2, don’t sk any stitches; 1hdc; *sk1st 1hdc in each of the next 2sts, 1hdc around 2hdc just made*; repeat from *to* until 2sts rem; sk1st, 1hdc in last st. (7 sets of wrapped hdcs, 8 perforations)

Repeat rows 3-4 as desired, ending with a Row 3 for symmetry.

If you are swatching, make a total of 13 rows.

Hand wash your swatch in luke warm water with a mild detergent. I like to use a gentle shampoo. Do not wring. Squeeze out the excess water between two layers of a clean towel. Lay flat on a towel, gently pulling into shape to open up the stitches. You can pin it square with some stainless steel (rust free) pins if you like. Allow to dry naturally.

I hope you like my Perforated Pin Stripes Crochet Stitch – if you give it a try, please let me know!

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Round Granny in a Square Crochet Motif – With Video Tutorial

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This Round Granny in a Square crochet motif was the result of a student asking me if it was possible to make a round granny square. At the time, I didn’t have access to the internet to see what was already available, but because I had some yarn and a hook to hand, I quickly came up with a basic formula. That was back in 2017 and the sample I made was stored in a box in my office and forgotten about. Then, in 2018 I received my Yarn Advent from the talented Lottie Knits. The yarn was so beautiful, I couldn’t think what to make with it or even find a suitable pattern. So my 24 skeins of yarn sat in their box for almost a year. One day I was poking around for something in my office and found the round granny. I instantly though of the Advent Yarn and then wondered how I could round it off into a square so that I would make a scarf. This is the result! I finished the scarf in 2019 and now, almost a another year on, thanks to an Instagram challenge prompt, I have written up the pattern!

two images showing a round granny square being crocheted in rainbow colours

Round Granny in a Square Crochet Motif (Free Pattern)

Download written instructions – click here (opens in new tab).
scroll down for video tutorial.

Materials & Supplies

To make this motif, you can use any yarn thickness and corresponding hook size. See below for suggestions.

4ply/Fingering weight yarn – 3 mm/D.
DK/Sport weight yarn – 4mm/G.
Worsted/Aran weight yarn – 5mm/H.

Sample motif:

I have used a 4ply yarn with a 3 mm/D hook.

Yardage per square:

In total, I have used 10g/36m/39yds.

Finished dimensions:

Using 3mm hook & 4ply yarn, after blocking – 10cm/ 4” x 10cm/ 4”

Finished size & yardage will vary depending on hook size, yarn thickness & your personal gauge.

Advent Scarf

Here is the scarf I made using this motif. I used 23 x 10g of the Advent Calendar (I didn’t use one of the colours because I felt it didn’t fit in) and I also used about 3/4 of a full 100g skein in the same yarn that I used as a blending colour.

woman with long hair wear hand crocheted patchwork scarf

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Making a Top with the Cartwheels & Clovers Motif – 4ply Version

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Recent updates to this page:

02/08/2023 – I have some notes for the linen, 3ply version I made, you can find them here: Cartwheels & Clovers 3ply linen top.

08/07/2022 – I have made this page and videos public on YouTube BUT THIS IS NOT A FINISHED PATTERN. Please message me if you need help.

28/07/2020 – Hem Border (Video)

25/07/2020 – Armhole/Sleeve Border (Written instructions + video)

Thank you so much for showing an interest in my crochet work. I really appreciate your support and I’m happy to share some of my processes here with you in case you fancy having a go yourself at making a top using the motif.

***THIS PAGE IS A WORK IN PROGRESS***

My pattern has not been tested or tech edited. If you embark on the creative journey of crocheting a garment with these notes, please see these instructions as more of a “recipe” to help you make your own unique item.

I will be editing and adding tips, videos and photo tutorials to this page so if you come back once in a while, you might find more useful stuff.

Project Overview – Yellow Top

Construction : square motifs which are connected with the “join as you go” method in the last round. Neck shaping is created with partial motifs.
Simple borders on the neck, arms & hem.
Shape & Fit : a loose, rectangular, sleeveless tee with split hems. I measure 91cm/36 inches around the chest and I’m about 171cm/5′ 7″ tall.
Finished Size : 58cm / 23″ across, 116cm / 46″ around chest, 54cm /21″ long.
Materials : 7 x 50g balls (252 metres / 276 yards) of Catona 4ply Cotton from Scheepjes in Saffron.
Tools : 3mm hook & locking stitch markers.

Resources

Scroll down to find a list of videos and pdf tutorials currently available. All except the basic motif and join, are not yet publicly available. I recommend using the written instructions in conjunction with the videos.

Choosing Your Yarn & Hook Size

Because these are quite large motifs with some relatively large open spaces, I would not recommend using anything thicker than 4py for making a garment. The thinner the yarn, the more flexibility you will have with sizing. These notes covering making the top in 4ply/fingering and 3ply/heavy lace but you can apply the same principles if you use 2ply/laceweight or any of the finer crochet threads.

Swatching

You will need to start by making a swatch of 2×2 motifs.
As a guide:
For 4ply/fingering yarn, I have used a 3mm hook.
For the 3ply/heavy lace yarn, I have used a 2.25mm hook.
Hook size will vary from person to person depending on your gauge, the way you crochet and how “thick” your yarn is within it’s given yarn group, which can vary from one brand to the next, i.e. some 4ply could almost be classed as DK and some are very thin 4ply, could almost be a heavy lace weight.

This part is really important : You will need to wash, block and allow your 4 motif section to dry before measuring so that you have an accurate starting point for working out your sizing.

Coming soon : Video, tips for blocking (video).

Motifs & Join

You can find the main motif and joining techniques by clicking on the links:

Downloadable pdf for motif & joining technique.
Video for motif.
Video for joining.

Schematics, Layouts & Construction

Here are some details about the tops I have made, including overall sizes, placement of motifs and yarn weights/yardage and hook sizes:

General advice (video), made before I had completed the 3ply version, so this will be updated eventually.
Layout & Construction – Summary for 4ply Version (pdf).
Coming soon – Layout for 3ply Version – in progress.

Neck Shaping

Neck motifs & border (pdf).
Neck motifs & border (video), see below.

Split Motif

This motif is used for making the split in the sides of the hem if you are using half motifs.

Split Motif – instructions (PDF).
Video coming soon.

Half Motif

Coming soon.

Triangle Motif

Use this motif for shoulder shaping or as an underarm gusset if you are using half motifs for the side seams. More details for placement will be available when the 3ply version has been finished.
Triangle Motif – instructions (PDF)

Joining Front to Back – Arm Holes & Side Split

Coming Soon.

Hem Border

PDF instructions coming Soon.

Video below:

Sleeve / Armhole Border

Making the border for the “sleeve” – instructions (PDF)

Video below:

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Cartwheels & Clovers – Free Square Crochet Motif Pattern with Video

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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.

Mesh Soap Bag – Free Crochet Pattern

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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.