Ruana with Fur in “I Like Crochet” Magazine

November 4, 2025 By
Cover of I Like Crochet Magazine December 2025
Photo courtesy I Like Crochet magazine.

The Mocha Luxe Ruana I (Dana) crocheted for I Like Crochet magazine December 2025 made the cover! Woo hoo! This is very exciting. As you may know, my sister and I don’t often make garment type projects. But I took a chance on a one-size-fits-most project and I’m thrilled with how it turned out.

My goal was to make something soft, luxurious, and … easy. Yep, I selected these stitch patterns specifically so that the project would be approachable for newish crocheters. There are stitches with varying heights, but there are no decreases or other more complicated techniques.

Photo courtesy I Like Crochet magazine

A ruana is kind of like a blanket you wear as a coat. There are no buttons or sleeves. The front panels can be thrown over the shoulder to create a shawl-like appearance. I was very, very sad to have to mail this to the magazine for photos. I may have to make a second one that I can keep and wear. Goodbye coat, hello ruana.

I also loved this project because my mom helped me with the beading. We raided her stash and found some baubles that accent the sides of the shawl perfectly. Hmm…beading. I may incorporate those more often into my crochet projects.

Knit Picks Yarn

Photo from Knit Picks

The crown jewel of this garment is the luxurious fur yarn. I had a blast crocheting with Knit Picks Fairy Tale Fur yarn. Yes, it is difficult to see the stitches, but you it’s easy to feel where the next stitch goes if you use a taller stitch like double crochet. It’s also forgiving if you miss a stitch. It is so luxuriously soft, I started dreaming of other projects I can make with this yarn. I highly recommend this 100% polyester yarn for any project needing fur.

Photo from Knit Picks

The main portion of the ruana used Knit Picks Brava Worsted. This is a work horse yarn that’s easy to use. It’s 100% acrylic and gives great stitch definition. It pairs beautifully with the Fair Tail Fur.

I Like Crochet December 2025

Photo courtesy I Like Crochet.

Here are a few more photos of the Mocha Luxe Ruana. Words can not express how much I love this project. It’s fun to make and even more fun to wear!

Happy Stitching.

Photo courtesy I Like Crochet magazine.
Filed Under: Crochet, Publications, Scarves, Cowls & Shrugs, Yarnitect Tagged With: ,

Evergreens, Crochet World Winter 2025

October 28, 2025 By

Evergreens often remind me of winter and Christmas time. Why is that? They are green all year long! These darling crocheted evergreen trees are easy to make and can be enjoyed all year. I often put them out at Christmas, and put them away well into the new year. Now you can crochet your own evergreens as well!

Available on newsstands now, Crochet World magazine’s Winter 2025 is full of fun winter and Christmas-time projects perfect for wearing, decorating and gifting. We have another adorable pattern in the issue…Evergreen Trees! We show the trees in two different crochet stitch patterns and the instructions walk you step by step how to assemble them.

Each tree is crocheted with Omega Otono worsted weight yarn. They are crocheted with simple stitches and have simple construction making these fun and easy for beginner crocheters.

Just for added fun, I, Deborah, decided to create the little wooden reindeer as well! I saw a video of someone making one on a band saw, and cut one out myself using a scroll saw. I don’t do a lot of woodworking, but I was pleased with the result. It’s a cute little addition to my winter scene. Here’s the video of the reindeer using the band saw: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W335wRyLLiY&t=61s

Check out Crochet World Winter 2025 for the trees and 28 other fun and festive patterns to crochet.

Filed Under: Christmas, Holidays & Special Occasions, Home Decor, Publications, Yarnovator Tagged With: , , ,

Timberland Townies

July 21, 2025 By

Introducing, the Timberland Townies, 6 classy pin loom woven woodland friends. These cute critters are featured in the Fall 2025 issue of Little Looms magazine.

The call for submissions asked for forest themed items. The fox quickly came to mind. After making a fox stuffed pillow and fox purse using 4″ squares for the Zoo Crew ebook, I focused on the triangular shape of the face first. Unlike the pillow and purse, the little plush fox used a variety of looms, not just the 4″ square.

While assembling the fox, the form of the face reminded me of an otter, a beaver, and a bear. It wasn’t long before the bunny and mouse joined the party! What makes each animal seem different is just the minor placement differences in the ears, eyes, and nose. To make them more authentic, I paid close attention to the tails as well.

Each stuffed animal is about 10″ tall and a few inches wide, making them great toys for elementary aged children. Safety eyes are not recommended for children that put toys in their mouths.

Each animal took about 2 hours to weave, and couple more hours to assemble, making these great weekend projects!

Timberland Townies Made with Lion Brand Yarn

The heathered tones of Heartland yarn from Lion Brand really make the clothes and accessories pop. This yarn also weaves up very nicely on the pin loom. It’s one of our favorite go-to yarns when weaving.

For those solid colored elements like fur, we used Basic Stitch from Lion Brand Yarn. We also love that this line has various shades of brown and beige under the label “Skein Tones”.

We love how the colors of these two yarn lines look together, like they were made for each other.

Filed Under: Animals, Child, Publications, Yarnovator Tagged With: ,

Serene Shores Wrap – June 2025 ILC

June 5, 2025 By
Photo courtesy of I Like Crochet magazine.

The June 2025 issue of I Like Crochet magazine features our Serene Shores Wrap. This shawl crochet pattern is a lacy, playful design with a unique edging and flirty tassels. It’s stitched in a scrumptious Cantata yarn which is medium worsted weight.

For those of us living in warmer climates, this shawl is a must have in summer months for battling fridge temperatures of indoor air conditioning. For those living in cooler climates, the Serene Shores Wrap is a must have for the cooler evening temperatures.

About the Serene Shores Wrap

  • Measurements: 96” long x 21” wide
  • Skill Level: Intermediate
  • Cascade Yarns: Cantata (6 skeins)

Serene Shores Wrap in Cascade Yarns Cantata

I highly recommend this yarn for shawls such as the Serene Shores Wrap. It feels luxurious to stitch with and has great stitch definition. Last time I looked, there were 45 colors to choose from. Wow! The Serene Shores is worked in #16 Sand, 3 hanks and #12 Green Teal, 3 hanks.

Cascade Yarns Cantata is the perfect choice for Spring and Summer stitching because it has gorgeous sun-kissed colors. The yarn is a luxurious cotton tube with soft Merino wool blown in. It has fantastic loft and beautiful drape allowing the lacework to really shine.   

  • Fiber: 70% Cotton / 30% Merino Wool
  • Approx. Yardage: 218 yds (200 m)
  • Weight: 100 g (3.5 oz)
  • (4) Medium Worsted Weight
  • Hand Wash Cold
  • Lay Flat to Dry

I Like Crochet – June 2025

I Like Crochet June 2025 issue has a fun beachy vibe with a “Sand + Sea” story and a “Hot Tropics” theme. You’ll find tops, wraps, and a fun flamingo pillow. And, if you like Pineapple crochet, there are 7 designs to stitch.

Photo courtesy of I Like Crochet magazine.
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Snowflake Bucket Tote – CW Winter 2024

December 12, 2024 By

Our latest design, the Snowflake Bucket Tote, is featured in Crochet World 2024 Winter issue. This crochet bag is a great way to store your current crochet project. The crochet pattern features a cinch-closed lining which will keep your project easily accessible yet off limits to tiny tots and fur babies.

The Snowflake Bucket Tote is stitched in corded yarn which offers both stability and flexibility. However, heavy purse handles can still weigh the project down. If more structure is needed to help the project bag maintain its bucket shape, add heavy stabilizer or plastic canvas between the crocheted bag and the lining.

The Snowflake Bucket Tote features a snowflake applique which is sewn to the front of the bag. Add it or not. Stitch up a different applique and use this tote all year long. This crochet bag design would make an awesome beach tote, too.

Lion Brand Yarn: Let’s Get Cozy Lazy Days

As mentioned, Lion Brand Yarn Let’s Get Cozy Lazy Days yarn is a tubular, chainette style yarn. It looks like corded yarn but it’s not stiff like macrame yarns. It’s soft and drapey yet strong and durable…perfect for making bags. Last I checked, it comes in 14 colors. If you haven’t crocheted or knitted with it, I highly recommend it.

  • 100% Polyester
  • 100 g / 3.5 oz
  • 179 yd / 164 m
  • Machine Wash and Dry
  • #144-150BC wind chime, #144-107N bluebell

Crochet World Magazine Winter 2024

Crochet World Winter 2024 will keep you busy stitching project for friends, family and yourself! There are wearable items, home decor, accessories, afghans, toys and more. We have a few patterns featured in the Winter 2024 issue of Crochet World, check it out:

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Triple Tassel Scarf in I Like Knitting

December 1, 2024 By
Photo courtesy of I Like Crochet magazine.

So excited to share our latest knitting pattern in I Like Knitting online magazine. This was specifically designed as a beginner friendly knitting pattern. If you can knit and purl, you can make this fun and flirty knit scarf. There are no cables, no increases and no decreases.

The Triple Tassel Scarf measures approximately 80″ long x 8″ wide. So it’s a really fun length for folding, wrapping and styling! The scarf has a different pattern on the right side and wrong side…but both are gorgeous. The crowning glory of this piece is obviously the triple tassels! So…much…fun!

I Like Knitting December 2024

You can find the Triple Tassel Scarf in I Like Knitting December 2024 issue. This exciting magazine includes hats, scarves, socks and more. Lots of fun knits to gift and a cute Christmas stocking, too.

Cascade Yarns Pacific Chunky

Triple Tassel Scarf is made with the fabulous Pacific Chunky by Cascade Yarns. This is a soft cuddly yarn made with 60% Acrylic / 40% Superwash Merino Wool. Besides being soft, this yarn is also machine washable and dryable! Yes! Perfect for winter accessories like scarves.

If you’re new to knitting (or even if you’re not), check out this easy to knit Triple Tassel Scarf in I Like Knitting magazine.

Filed Under: Adult, Knit, Publications, Scarves, Cowls & Shrugs, Yarnitect Tagged With: , , , ,

Santa’s Cheers Bottle Cozy – ILC Dec 2024

November 27, 2024 By
Photo courtesy “I Like Crochet” magazine.

Merry Christmas! Celebrate the holidays with Santa’s Cheers Bottle Cozy crochet pattern featured in I Like Crochet December 2024. If you’re gifting wine, don’t just put it in a bag, crochet this Santa’s coat wine bottle cozy! It’s sure to be the talk of the table and may even make appearances at family gatherings all winter long. It’s fun, it’s festive and can be stitched in a weekend.

Here’s the skinny on the fat man’s wine bottle cozy crochet pattern:

  • Skill Level: Easy
  • Size: Fits 750 mL bottle: 11″ tall x 11″ around
  • Premier Yarn Anti-Pilling Everyday Worsted Yarn
  • Premier Yarn Little Bunny
  • Time to Stitch: In a Weekend

Premier Anti-Pilling Every Day Worsted

Premier Yarn Anti Pilling Worsted Weight Yarn

This is a fabulous yarn to work with, one of our favorites. We love that it’s anti-pilling and we love that there are over 60 colors in this medium worsted weight yarn (last we checked). We also love that this yarn has a little sheen to it, so the colors really pop.

  • 100% Anti-Pilling Acrylic
  • 4 medium worsted weight
  • 100 g / 3.5 oz
  • 180 yd / 165 m
  • OEKO-TEX Certified
  • #100-07 really red, #100-12 black #100-28 mustard

Premier Yarn Little Bunny

What a fun yarn! This soft yarn makes the cutest furry little stitches. We give it two thumbs up. Last we checked, this yarn comes in 21 colors…both solid and multi colored.

  • 100% polyester
  • 100 g / 3.5 oz
  • 109 yd / 100 m
  • Machine wash war, dry flat, do not iron
  • OEKO-TEX Certified
  • #2079-01 white

I Like Crochet December 2024

I Like Crochet magazine December 2024

Check out the I Like Crochet magazine December 20204 issue. It’s super fun … with wearables, home decor, holiday cheer and more. This will keep you in stitches all winter long.

I Like Crochet is an online magazine only with a new publication every other month.

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Mini Pouches – Crochet World Winter 2024

November 16, 2024 By

More than just cute little animals, these adorable crochet mini pouch critters have pockets for holding ear buds, lip gloss or maybe a dollar or two. Crochet a cat or bear ear bud pocket and attach it to your backpack or hand bag keeping your ear buds within easy reach.

These Mini Pouches are featured in Crochet World Winter 2024. We’ve rated them “easy” but these are a fun project for the confident beginner. We love the expression of the bear with the added embroidery around the eyes. And we’re tickled by the playfulness of the cat with a ball of yarn wrapped around it’s tail.

  • Cat with Mini Ball of Yarn
  • Expressive Bear
  • Measures: 3.5″ across
  • Sirdar Happy Cotton DK Yarn

Sirdar Happy Cotton DK

We love these mini balls of yarn! They are a fun size for crochet projects on-the-go or crochet patterns with lots of colors. We opted for 2 colors plus black for each mini pouch. We also chose lighter weight yarn so we could make smaller accents (eyes, nose, embroidery).

  • 100% cotton
  • DK weight
  • 20 g
  • 47 yd / 43 m
  • Cat: #761 dolly, #753 freckle (1 skein each)
  • Bear: #777 cookie, #772 safari (1 skein each)
  • Embroidery: #775 liquorice (1 skein)

Crochet World Winter 2024

Crochet World Winter 2024 will keep you busy stitching project for friends, family and yourself! There are wearable items, home decor, accessories, afghans, toys and more. We have a few patterns featured in the Winter 2024 issue of Crochet World, check it out:

Filed Under: Animals, Bags, Publications, Yarnitect Tagged With: , , , , ,

Polar Bear Hugs Pillow – CW Winter 2024

November 12, 2024 By

Whether near or far, you can give polar bear hugs to your loved ones with this beginner friendly crochet pattern, Polar Bear Hugs Pillow, featured in Crochet World Winter 2024. If you can single crochet, you can make this loveable friend.

Crochet bears are timeless and great for any season, though the red scarf on this polar bear screams classic Christmas. We love this crochet pillow for the holidays because it’s fun, whimsical, loveable and huggable.

  • Measures: 13″ wide x 14″ tall (to top of ears)
  • Skill Level: Beginner

Premier Yarns Anti Pilling Everyday Worsted

Premier Yarns Anti-Pilling Everyday Worsted is a fantastic yarn for pillows and toys. I’ve seen the term “premium acrylic” used by other brands and I wouldn’t hesitate to use that term for this yarn, too. The yarn has a nice sheen which makes the colors pop on the Polar Bear Hugs Pillow. I highly recommend this yarn for any project where you will use acrylic yarn. Last I checked, this yarn was available in 66 colors.

  • 100% Anti-Pilling Acrylic
  • 3.5 oz/ 100 g
  • 180 yd / 165 m
  • 4 Medium Worsted Weight
  • Machine wash and dry
  • #100-01 snow white, #100-07 really red, #100-52 chinchilla, #100-12 black

Crochet World Magazine Winter 2024

Crochet World Winter 2024 will keep you busy stitching project for friends, family and yourself! There are wearable items, home decor, accessories, afghans, toys and more. We have a few patterns featured in the Winter 2024 issue of Crochet World, check it out:

Filed Under: Animals, Christmas, Home Decor, Publications, Yarnovator Tagged With: , , , ,

Sheep Pillow Published in Little Looms

January 9, 2023 By

Sheep are neat and so are pillows that look like them! Deborah designed an adorable sheep pillow using yarn and pin loom woven shapes.

We love this pillow because it’s fairly easy to make, yet has lots of little details that make it quite interesting. The 4″ squares give it a puffed / quilted look. The woven texture of each square adds more interest. The fleck in the yarn adds still more depth.

Sheep Pillow Pin Loom Pattern in Little Looms Magazine

Little Looms Magazine first published this “Counting Sheep” pattern in their Spring 2023 issue. You can access the pattern either by purchasing that single issue or joining their all access subscription service.

About the Pin Loom Sheep Pillow Pattern

The finished size is approximately 10″ x 11″ x 4 1/2″.

There are two weaving structures: plain weave and Loomette Weave #1. Check out our blog post for the Loomette Weave #1 pattern. Here are the supplies needed to make your own Pin Loom Sheep Pillow:

  • Pin Loom Square: 4″
  • Pin Loom Rectangle: 2” x 4”
  • 5” weaving needle
  • Tapestry Needle
  • Yarns: Lion Brand Yarns Vanna’s Choice Heather (92% acrylic/8% rayon; 145 yd/3 oz), #400D Oatmeal, 160 yd.
  • Lion Brand Yarns Vanna’s Choice Solid (100% acrylic, 170 yd/3.5oz), #153 Black, 40 yd.
  • Stuffing
  • Pins

It’s really fun to see how many people find this project so appealing. Even though it’s pin loom woven, we find that fiber enthusiasts of all kids find this little guy irresistible. So do farmers and city folk…and people who like to count sheep before they nod off to sleep.

Filed Under: Animals, Home Decor, Pin Loom, Publications Tagged With: , , , , , ,
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