• Product Reviews

    Mandala Watercolors Yarn Review

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    three cakes of Lion Brand Mandala Watercolors yarn side by side.
    This post may contain affiliate links. All opinions are my own.

    Lion Brand has a brand new Mandala yarn available: Mandala Watercolors. At the time I’m writing this, the Mandala Watercolors hasn’t even hit Canadian store shelves yet and I’m so excited to share this new Mandala yarn with you.

    Thanks to Lion Brand for supplying this yarn or my review. This yarn was supplied to me at no charge in exchange for my honest review.

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    The Mandala Watercolors yarn is a single-ply roving style yarn that comes in a yarn cake. It’s a size 5, bulky weight yarn that’s a blend of 75% acrylic, 15% wool and 10% nylon. The yarn is soft to the touch, and as you’d expect with a roving style yarn, has a bit of a fuzz/halo around the strand. Since the yarn isn’t plied, it isn’t prone to splitting.

    Each Mandala Watercolor cake comes in a 100g size ball that contains 164 yards/150m. The yarn is machine washable on the genry cycle and needs to be laid flat to dry.

    Top view of the Mandala Watercolor in Icy Grape, next to a furls crochet hook

    If you would like to support my blog, you can do so by doing your regular shopping on Amazon. As an Amazon affiliate, I earn a small commission on qualifying purchases made through my Amazon link, which in turn helps to support the blog so I can keep bringing you patterns and great content like this for free.

    The recommended hook size for the Mandala Watercolors yarn is 6.5mm (6.5mm needle for all you knitters out there). You can definitely get away with a bigger hook with this yarn. The crochet gauge information on the label (using the recommended hook sizes) is as follows:

    • Crochet Gauge: 14 SCs x 20 Rows = 4″
    • Knit Gauge: 11 STs x 12 Rows = 4″

    This yarn is dyed to mimic an almost hand-dyed, hand-painted yarn and the colour changes happen pretty gradually. Mandala Watercolors is currently available in 6 different colours on the Lion Brand website. I had the colours Icy Grape, Quarry and Teaberry to check out for my review. The Teaberry was definitely my favourite of the three with the Quarry being a close second. The Icy Grape colourway had a beautiful shade of purple but it had some light brown spots of colour which weren’t visible on the site which, i my opinion took away from the gorgeous purple that they used.

    Two cakes of Lion Brand Mandala Watercolours in Quarry with a furls crochet hook.

    Check out the video review of this Lion Brand Mandala Watercolors yarn and see me try the yarn for the first time:

    When planning your projects using this (and any other roving yarn), it is important to keep in mind that roving yarns generally tend to pill more than plied yarns. I personally would use this yarn for projects that aren’t going to see a lot of wear or abuse. There are few things more disappointing than putting your time, love and energy into a gorgeous garment with a beautiful yarn, only to find out that you need to shave it after wear.

    If you want to check out the new Lion Brand Mandala Watercolour yarn, you can check it out through my affiliate link HERE. I may earn a small commission on qualifying purchases made through this link (at no expense to you) which helps me to continue to provide free content like this and free crochet patterns.

    Two cakes of the yarn being reviewed in Teaberry with a furls crochet hook.

    I’m thinking I may possibly work up a quick design with the Mandala Watercolors. What do you think? Have you seen this yarn? Have you tried this yarn? What would you make with it? I’d love to hear from you and know what your thoughts are so leave me a comment in the comment section below.

    While you’re here, you may like checking out some of my other crochet product reviews and free crochet patterns:

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  • Crochet Patterns

    Free Crochet Dog Pattern – Henley the Hound

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    Brown Crochet Puppy begging for a treat with a text overlay indicating this is a free crochet dog pattern.
    This post may contain affiiate links.

    This free crochet dog pattern has been sponsored by Clover USA. All opinions are my own.

    I am so so excited to share with you my free crochet dog pattern for Henley the Hound. Henley is a sweet and playful puppy that is just begging to be played with. Henley is a crochet dog that is sitting on his hind quarters and is holding his paws up to ask for a treat or for someone to play with him.

    Dogs have always been a big part of my life and I have wanted to design a free crochet dog pattern for the blog but didn’t want it to be like a doll. I had made a few different attempts but I didn’t like any of them enough to keep so I’d always end up frogging it and starting again. When I saw the ball of We Crochet Brava Worsted yarn on my shelf in Brindle, I was inspired to try again. I really love this colour and decided it would be a great colour for a dog. It was my husband’s suggestion to make Henley’s ears and tail in a darker brown and I couldn’t be happier with how he’s turned out. I hope you’ll love him too.

    Pin this Free Crochet Dog Pattern for Later Save

    This free crochet dog pattern is suitable for intermediate crocheters or adventurous beginners. Henley is designed to be able to stand up on his own. The placement of the thighs, feet and tail provide some assistance for him to stand up which is further aided by the use of poly pellets in the base of Henley’s body. Poly pellets are plastic pellets that add weight to your project. The poly pellets are placed in a nylon stocking to prevent them from falling out of the toy through the stitches. This is an optional step however, if you choose not to use them, it may make Henley a bit less stable/less able to stand up on his own.

    Amigurumi dog with some Clover USA Crochet tools looking up at a ball of purple yarn.

    The tools I used in this project were generously supplied by Clover USA. I used their Clover Amour Crochet hooks, Chibi Bent Tip Tapestry Needle, Locking Stitch Markers and Patchwork Mini Scissors. All of these tools have become part of my go-to toolbox. All of these tools are really great quality and enjoyable to use. Locking stitch markers are an absolute necessity (in my opinion) when making amigurumi and these stitch markers never disappoint. I never realized what a game changer a bent tip tapestry needle could be until I tried them. If you do amigurumi projects regularly, then I definitely recommend checking them out.

    Get an ad-free PDF version of this pattern for a small fee  HERE on Ravelry or HERE on Etsy.

    Back view of the amigurumi dog made with this free crochet pattern and some Clover USA tools.

    Free Crochet Dog Pattern for Henley the Hound

    Skill Level:

    • Intermediate


    Terminology:

    • U.S. Terminology

    Supplies:

    If you’re planning on buying the materials for this project, please consider doing so through this affiliate link. It helps to support the blog at zero cost to you and allows me to continue to bring you great free crochet patterns like this one.

    Abbreviations:

    • CH = Chain
    • ST = Stitch
    • SL ST = Slip Stitch
    • MC = Magic Circle
    • SC = Single Crochet
    • SCINC = Single Crochet Increase
    • SCDEC = Single Crochet Decrease
    • FLO = Front Loop Only
    • FO = Finish Off


    Finished Size:

    • Approximately 8.5” tall x 4.5” wide across the hips


    Gauge:

    • 9 sts x 11 rows = 2 inches – Gauge is not vital to the project as long as tension is maintained throughout the project and there are no holes where stuffing can be seen.  However, please note if you do not match gauge, it will affect the size of your project and therefore, potentially the amount of yarn required.

    Pattern:


    Notes:

    • This project is worked in continuous rounds.  Do not join at the end of every row (unless indicated).  Use a stitch marker to mark the first stitch of every round, moving it up at the start of each new round.
    • For a cleaner SCDEC, do your SCDEC under the front loops only of the stitch rather than under both loops.  This is often referred to as an invisible decrease.
    • Work the SL STs in the arms loosely so that you are able to work into them when adding future rows.
    • Henley is designed to be able to stand up on his own. The placement of the thighs, feet and tail provide some assistance for him to stand up which is further aided by the use of poly pellets in the base of Henley’s body. Poly pellets are plastic pellets that add weight to your project. The poly pellets are placed in a nylon stocking to prevent them from falling out of the toy through the stitches. This is an optional step however, if you choose not to use them, it may make Henley a bit less stable/less able to stand up on his own.

    Head

    Round 1: Using Brava Worsted yarn in Brindle and 3.5 mm crochet hook, make a MC and SC 6 into the MC. (6)
    Round 2: (SCINC) x 6 (12)
    Round 3: (SC, SCINC) x 6 (18)
    Round 4: SC 1, SCINC, (SC 2, SCINC) x 5, SC 1 (24)
    Round 5: (SC 3, SCINC) x 6 (30)
    Rounds 6  – 10:     SC around (30)
    Round 11: (SCINC, SC 2) x 5, SCINC, SC 14 (36)
    Round 12: (SCINC, SC 3) x 5, SCINC, SC 15 (42)
    Round 13: SC 2, SCINC, (SC 4, SCINC) x 5, SC 14 (48) – Place eyes in STS 10 and 25 of Row 13
    Rounds 14  – 15:  SC around (48)
    Round 16: (SCINC, SC 5) x 5, SCINC, SC 17 (54)
    Rounds 17 – 23:  SC around (54)
    Round 24:  SC 2, SCDEC, (SC 4, SCDEC) x 8, SC 2 (45)
    Rounds 25 – 26: SC around (45)
    Round 27: SCDEC,(SC 3, SCDEC) x 8, SC 3 (36) – Start stuffing, adding a bit more stuffing after each round.  Stuff firmly.
    Round 28: SC 2, SCDEC, (SC 4, SCDEC) x 5, SC 2 (30)
    Round 29: (SC 3, SCDEC) x 6 (24)
    Round 30: (SC 2, SCDEC) x 6 (18)
    Round 31: (SC 1, SCDEC) x 6 (12)
    Round 32: (SCDEC) x 6 (6)

    FO and weave the tail through the FLO of the last round to close the hole. Weave in end.

    Close up image of the nose and face of the crochet toy made with this free crochet dog pattern.

    If you would like to support my blog, you can do so by doing your regular shopping on Amazon. As an Amazon affiliate, I earn a small commission on qualifying purchases made through my Amazon link, which in turn helps to support the blog so I can keep bringing you patterns and great content like this for free.

    Body

    Round 1: Using Brava Worsted yarn in Brindle and 3.5 mm crochet hook, make a MC and SC 6 into the MC. (6)
    Round 2: (SCINC) x 6 (12)
    Round 3: (SC, SCINC) x 6 (18)
    Round 4: SC 1, SCINC, (SC 2, SCINC) x 5, SC 1 (24)
    Round 5: (SC 3, SCINC) x 6 (30)
    Round 6: SC 2, SCINC, (SC 4, SCINC) x 5, SC 2 (36)
    Round 7: (SC 5, SCINC) x 6 (42)
    Rounds 8  – 26: SC around (42)
    Round 27: (SC 5, SCDEC) x 6 (36)
    Round 28: SC around (36) – If using Poly Pellets, add them to the nylon stocking. Secure the top with a knot (or your preferred method) and place it in the bottom of the body now.  Start stuffing, adding a bit more every couple of rounds.  Make sure to stuff around the Poly Pellet pack.  Stuff firmly.
    Round 29: SC 2, SCDEC, (SC 4, SCDEC) x 5, SC 2 (30)
    Round 30: SC around (30)
    Round 31: (SC 3, SCDEC) x 6. (24)
    Round 32: SC around (24)
    Round 33: SC 1, SCDEC, (SC 2, SCDEC) x 5, SC 1. (18)

    Join last ST to first ST with a SL ST and FO leaving a long tail to sew the head onto the body. Sew body onto head. For a playful look, sew the head slightly off center/leaned to one side.  Add stuffing to the body as you sew the head on and stuff firmly to help support the head.  Not enough stuffing may cause the head to droop.

    Brown amigurumi dog standing up and begging for a treat

    Left Arm

    Round 1: Using Brava Worsted yarn in Brindle and 3.5 mm crochet hook, make a MC and SC 8 into the MC. (8)
    Round 2: (SCINC) x 2, SC 2, (SCINC) x 2, SC 2 (12)
    Round 3:  SC around (12)
    Round 4: SCINC, SC 1, SCINC, SC 3, SCINC, SC 1, SCINC, SC 3 (16)
    Rounds 5 – 8: SC around (16)
    Rounds 9 – 12: In FLO, SL ST 8, working back under both loops, SC 8 (16) – Start stuffing, adding a bit more stuffing every couple of rounds.  Stuff firmly.
    Rounds 13 – 18: SC around (16)
    Round 19: SC 7, (SCDEC) x 4, SC (12)
    Round 20:     SC around (12)
    Round 21:     SC 6, (SCDEC) x 3 (9)
    Round 22: SC 5, (SCDEC) x 2 (7)

    FO leaving a long tail that’s long enough to close the top of the arm and sew it onto the body. Use the tail to whip stitch the top of the arm closed.

    Right Arm

    Round 1: Using Brava Worsted yarn in Brindle and 3.5 mm crochet hook, make a MC and SC 8 into the MC. (8)
    Round 2: (SCINC) x 2, SC 2, (SCINC) x 2, SC 2 (12)
    Round 3:  SC around (12)
    Round 4: SCINC, SC 1, SCINC, SC 3, SCINC, SC 1, SCINC, SC 3 (16)
    Rounds 5 – 8: SC around (16)
    Rounds 9 – 12: In FLO, SL ST 8, working back under both loops, SC 8 (16) – Start stuffing, adding a bit more stuffing every couple of rounds.  Stuff firmly.
    Rounds 13 – 18: SC around (16)
    Round 19: (SCDEC) x 3, SC 8, SCDEC (12)
    Round 20:     SC around (12)
    Round 21:     (SCDEC) x 3, SC 6 (9)
    Round 22: (SCDEC) x 2, SC 5 (7)

    FO leaving a long tail that’s long enough to close the top of the arm and sew it onto the body. Use the tail to whip stitch the top of the arm closed.  The ends of the arms are angled to fit flush with the sides of the body this is the part that will lay next to the body (see image below).  In the image below, is the left arm and I’m pointing out the part of the arm that should be lain next to the body when sewing onto the dog.  Sew left arm onto the left side of the body and sew the right arm onto the right side of the body, angling the paws upwards towards the chin.  Making one paw slightly lower than the other gives it a playful look.  Using sewing pins to pin the arms onto the body first will help you ensure your arms are in a place you are happy with and hold them in place while you’re sewing them on.

    Left arm of Henley the Hound – This picture shows the part of the arm that should lay flat against the body when sewing the arms to the body.



    Ears (Make Two)

    Round 1: Using Brava Worsted yarn in Sienna and 3.5 mm crochet hook, make a MC and SC 6 into the MC. (6)
    Round 2: (SCINC) x 6 (12)
    Round 3: (SC, SCINC) x 6 (18)
    Round 4: (SC 2, SCINC) x 6 (24)
    Round 5: (SC 3, SCINC) x 6 (30)
    Rounds 6 – 8:     SC around (30)
    Round 9: SCDEC, SC 13, SCDEC, SC 13 (28)

    Close up image of the dark brown ear on the dog toy made with this free crochet dog pattern.


    Round 10: SC around (28)
    Round 11: SCDEC, SC 12, SCDEC, SC 12 (26)
    Round 12: SC around (26)
    Round 13: SCDEC, SC 11, SCDEC, SC 11 (24)
    Round 14: SC around (24)
    Round 15: SCDEC, SC 10, SCDEC, SC 10 (22)
    Round 16:  SC around (22)
    Round 17: (SCDEC) x 2, SC 7, (SCDEC) x 2, SC 7 (18)
    Round 18: SC around (18)
    Round 19: (SCDEC) x 2, SC 5, (SCDEC) x 2, SC 5 (14)
    Round 20: (SCDEC) x 2, SC 3, (SCDEC) x 2, SC 3 (10)

    Join last ST to the first ST with a SL ST.
    FO leaving a long tail that’s long enough to close the top of the ear and sew it onto the head. DO NOT STUFF.  Use the tail to whip stitch the top of the ear closed. Sew an ear onto either side of the head, lining the tops of the ears to be in line with the center of the eyes.

    Feet (Make Two)

    Round 1: Using Brava Worsted yarn in Brindle and 3.5 mm crochet hook, make a MC and SC 8 into the MC. (8)
    Round 2: (SCINC) x 2, SC 2, (SCINC) x 2, SC 2 (12)
    Round 3:  SC around (12)
    Round 4: SCINC, SC 1, SCINC, SC 3, SCINC, SC 1, SCINC, SC 3 (16)
    Rounds 5 – 9: SC around (16)
    Round 10: (SCDEC) x 3, SC 10 (13)
    Round 11: (SCDEC) x 3, SC 7 (10) – Add stuffing to the foot. Stuff firmly.  Do not add any more stuffing to the foot beyond this point.
    Rounds 12 – 16: SC around (10)
    Round 17: (SCDEC) x 5 (5)

    FO leaving a long tail for sewing.  Weave the tail through the FLO of the last round to close the hole.  Flatten the part of the foot that was not stuffed.  This part will lay flat against the bottom of the body.  Pin the feet to the body and wait to sew them on until after both thighs are completed.



    Thighs (Make Two)

    Round 1: Using Brava Worsted yarn in Brindle and 3.5 mm crochet hook, make a MC and SC 6 into the MC. (6)
    Round 2: (SCINC) x 6 (12)
    Round 3: (SC, SCINC) x 6 (18)
    Round 4: (SC 2, SCINC) x 6 (24)
    Round 5: (SC 3, SCINC) x 6 (30)
    Rounds 6 – 8:     SC around (30)

    Round 9: SCDEC, SC 13, SCDEC, SC 13 (28)
    Round 10: SC around (28)
    Round 11: (SCDEC) x 2, SC 10, (SCDEC) x 2, SC 10 (24)
    Round 12: SC around (24)
    Round 13: (SCDEC) x 2, SC 8, (SCDEC) x 2, SC 8 (20)
    Round 14: SC around (20)
    Round 15: (SCDEC) x 2, SC 6, (SCDEC) x 2, SC 6 (16)
    Round 16:  SC around (16)

    Join last ST to the first ST with a SL ST.  FO leaving a long tail to sew piece to body. Flatten the piece (it will naturally want to curve) and pin around the outside of the piece to either side of the lower part of the body, lining the bottoms of the piece up with the outside edge of each foot.  Use the tail to sew the thigh around the outside of the thigh piece, to the body and add a bit of stuffing between the thigh and the body before closing it up.  Sew along the bottom of the thigh to the foot.  This will help it look like it’s all one piece.  Use the tail on the foot to sew the foot to the bottom of the body.  Repeat with the other thigh/foot.

    Step one of the leg application process for this free crochet dog pattern
    Step two of the leg application process for this free crochet dog pattern

    Tail

    Round 1: Using Brava Worsted yarn in Sienna and 3.5 mm crochet hook, make a MC and SC 4 into the MC. (4)
    Round 2: SC around (4)
    Round 3: (SCINC, SC) x 2 (6)
    Round 4: SC around (6) – Start stuffing.  Adding more stuffing after each few rows.  Stuff firmly.
    Round 5: (SCINC, SC 2) x 2 (8)
    Rounds 6 – 8: SC around (8)
    Round 9: (SC 3, SCINC) x 2 (10)
    Rounds 10 – 26: SC around (10)

    Close up image of the amigurumi dog tail

    Join last ST to the first ST with a SL ST.  FO leaving a long tail for sewing.  Stand your dog upright and place the tail near the bottom of the base, at the back of the dog so it rests on the table and assists the dog in standing upright on its own.  Sew to the base using the tail of yarn left from finishing the tail.

    Nose

    Thread a tapestry needle with black embroidery thread and knot the ends together.  Pull the needle through a stitch near the back of the head and out through the center of the magic circle in the front of the head, pulling the knot into the dog’s head to hide it.  Start to embroider the nose in a rounded triangular shape, working into Round 3 of the head and bringing the thread back out through the magic circle of the head.  Work over this section until you have a filled in shape that resembles an upside down triangle with a rounded edge.  The outside edges of my nose line up with the outside edges of the eyes.  FO and weave in end. 

    Close up image of the embroidered nose on the amigurumi dog



    Disclaimer:

    Feel free to sell the item created by this pattern but please provide pattern credit back to me when posting online, and please provide a link to my blog: http://www.theloopylamb.com.  Please do not resell, distribute, duplicate, or share this pattern in any printed or digital form, or claim this pattern as your own original design.  Please do not use my photos when selling your finished items.   

    I’d love to see your finished Henleys made with this free crochet dog pattern!  Please share your finished makes by tagging the pattern on Ravelry, sharing it to our Facebook page or Instagram.  Don’t forget to follow me on Facebook, Instagram and Pinterest 

    Facebook: www.facebook.com/TheLoopyLamb
    Instagram:      www.instagram.com/TheLoopyLamb
    YouTube: The Loopy Lamb YouTube Channel
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  • Crochet Book Reviews

    Whimsical Stitches Book Review

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    Front Cover of the Whimsical Stitches book with a plant, coffee and tip of a crochet hook visible in the edges of the photo.
    This post may contain affiliate links.

    If you’ve been following me for a while, you know that I love, love, LOVE crochet books and amigurumi. So when the opportunity became available for me to review this amigurumi crochet book called Whimsical Stitches: A Modern Makers Book of Amigurumi Crochet Patterns by Lauren Espy, you know I jumped all over it.

    Thanks to Paige, Tate & Co., they have provided me a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review of this book. All opinions are my own.

    Watch my video

    First impressions upon receiving the book was that the cover is bright, fun and well…whimsical. I loved that it’s a hardcover book with a matte finish and the cover gives you a great selection of images from the patterns in the book. It’s one of those covers that invites you in and begs to be picked up if not by you, then definitely by any kids that may be with you.

    Inside cover of the amigurumi book by Lauren Espy.

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    Whimsical Stitches has 25 different amigurumi crochet patterns for a variety of different items. From plants and animals to different food items, this book has a gets big points for cuteness factor. The book is split into 5 different sections: In the Garden, At the Aquarium, Down on the Farm, At the Bakery and At the Market. The patterns are grouped under these sections in the book. Some of the patterns in this book include:

    • Saguaro Cactus,
    • Octopus,
    • Duck,
    • Mug & Donut,
    • Berries,
    • Sunflower,
    • Whale,
    • Bunny,
    • Macarons,
    • Eggplant;
    • and more!
    The table of contents in the Whimsical Stitches book.

    The patterns in the book use worsted weight yarn to complete. Most people have yarns that could work for these projects already in their yarn stash and can easily get started on projects in the book right away instead of having to track down supplies. The patterns themselves don’t list the exact yarns used which may be problematic for anyone that was the EXACT same yarn but you could easily find similar colours in your stash or yarn shopping at a big box store.

    Whimsical Stitches, of course, has a resource section. It details the stitches and techniques used for the patterns in the book and all stitches/techniques are accompanied by clear, step-by-step photographs. Since each pattern in the book has a face, instructions are given to instruct you how to do the mouth and eyelash stitching. When reading the instructions for how to embroider the mouth, I found the pictures to be particularly helpful in clarifying the written instructions.

    crochet tulips in pink and purple illustrated inside this crochet book

    The patterns themselves are clear, concise and loaded with photos to help you through the process of making your little amigurumi cuties. The photos in the book are bright, clean and helpful. I loved the amount of photos included to help you through the process. If I were a beginner or someone newer to amigurumi, the pictures included really help to guide you through the process to help ensure you get the best results possible. For example, to make the wings of the duck pattern, there are 18 pictures, spread across a 2-page spread to walk you through making the wings. I think that level of detail is great to include and can help you through what may have been tricky spots had photos not been included.

    Crochet strawberries and blueberries inside the amigurumi book being reviewed

    If you would like to support my blog, you can do so by doing your regular shopping on Amazon. As an Amazon affiliate, I earn a small commission on qualifying purchases made through my Amazon link, which in turn helps to support the blog so I can keep bringing you patterns and great content like this for free.

    Overall, I think it’s an adorable book of amigurumi crochet patterns and definitely worth adding to your crochet library if amigurumi is something you enjoy. I wouldn’t hesitate to give this book as a gift to a fellow crocheter. I think this book could be accessible to a relatively newer crocheter due to the level of detail given in the photos to walk you through the patterns. Lauren Espy has done a wonderful job of making this book accessible to as large an audience as possible and I won’t hesitate to recommend her book to any friend that should ask me about it.

    Picture of the crochet macarons pattern inside the Whimsical Stitches book

    If you want to check out Whimsical Stitches: A Modern Makers Book of Amigurumi Crochet Patterns by Lauren Espy you can grab a copy of the book HERE.

    Follow Lauren Espy, the author/designer of this book on Instagram: @amenagerieofstitches.

    If you enjoy crochet pattern books, you can check out some more of my crochet book reviews on my blog:

    Back cover of the Whimsical stitches book with a furls crochet hook lain on top of it.
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  • Product Reviews

    Premier Anti-Pilling Everyday Bobbin Yarn Review

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    close up image of Premier Anit-Pilling Everyday Bobbin Yarn and a furls crochet hook.
    This post may contain affiliate links. All opinions are my own.

    I was recently able to make a quick trip to the Michaels for some supplies. I know that around this time every year they start to put out the new fall lines of product so I figured my trip for supplies could do double duty and I could get a sneak peek of what’s going to be available for fall yarns. Although things weren’t fully put out yet, I immediately noticed and was drawn to an end cap display for a brand new yarn I haven’t seen before, from a yarn brand that I haven’t had the opportunity to try before. It was Premier Anti-Pilling Everyday Bobbin.

    Pin this for Later Save

    The first thing I noticed was it’s unique packaging. The yarn it packaged on a large spool, similar to a bobbin of sewing thread. On each bobbin, are 3 different, coordinating colours. All the bobbins that I saw had two solids and a variegated colour. The packaging has a hole at each end of it which can be used to place the spool on something that spins. I don’t know if that is the original intent of the design but that’s what I would use it for. Did you ever see that picture that went viral on Facebook a while ago of a woman using a toilet paper roll dispenser to hold her yarn while she crocheted? I’m envisioning adding this the Premier Anit-Pilling Every Day Bobbin to a papertowel dispenser and and working away, tangle free. The wide base of the bobbin would likely help prevent it from going too far if you just laid it on the table however, putting it on a papertowel dispenser just seems more fun.

    Top shot of the bobbin used in the premier anti-pilling everyday bobbin packaging

    The other fun thing I noticed about the design of the packaging is that, taking further inspiration from sewing thread bobbins, the ends of the yarn are all nicely tucked up under the label at the top of the package, held in by the label and some notches cut into the top of the bobbin. No more yarn barf! I found my ends relatively quickly and was ready to get started.

    The yarn itself is soft and plush. It’s a worsted weight, when using one strand of the yarn. It is 100% acrylic and it has a plied construction. If you have ever used Caron X Pantone yarn, it has a very similar strand construction and feel. It has a loose ply and it is a bit prone to splitting because of that but overall, I still enjoyed working with it. One spool comes with a total of 543 yards (498m) of yarn which is 181 yards (166m) of each colour.

    Close up of the side and yarn on the Premier Anti-Pilling Everday Bobbin

    The recommended hook size for this yarn is 5.5mm (5mm needle for all you knitters out there). You can definitely get away with a bigger hook with this yarn. The crochet gauge information on the label (using the recommended hook sizes) is as follows:

    • Crochet Gauge: 12 SCs x 15 Rows = 4″

    Check out the video review of this Premier Anti-Pilling Everyday Bobbin yarn and see me try the yarn for the first time:

    The yarn is anti-pilling and after checking the Premier website and some of it’s other anti-pilling yarn lines, I found that this yarn has a cool feature. If the yarn ever does pill, throw it in the wash and the plies will come off in the wash. Now that sounds cool up front because it means my project can look new, longer. I’m not sure what that will mean for my poor washing machine if I used a lot of this yarn and did this often though. I’m working with this yarn right now and am looking forward to giving this a try and to see how often it’s necessary.

    Here in Canada the Premier Anti-Pilling Everday Bobbin was selling at Michaels for $14.99 CAD at the time I purchased it. I had a 30% off coupon that I was able to use for my purchase. My initial thought at the cost of the yarn was “wow, that’s a bit expensive” when I saw that it was a 100% acrylic yarn. But, considering it’s anti-pilling and it has 550 yards, it isn’t too bad, especially when you’re able to possibly grab it on sale and/or utilize a coupon.

    If you would like to support my blog, you can do so by doing your regular shopping on Amazon. As an Amazon affiliate, I earn a small commission on qualifying purchases made through my Amazon link, which in turn helps to support the blog so I can keep bringing you patterns and great content like this for free.

    I’m thinking I may possibly work up a quick design the Everyday Bobbin. I picked up a bobbin in the colour Peacock and I love it so I’m just itching to do something fun with it. What do you think? Have you seen this yarn? Have you tried this yarn? What would you make with it? I’d love to hear from you and know what your thoughts are so leave me a comment in the comment section below.

    New Bobbin Yarn in Peacock from Premier

    While you’re here, you may like checking out some of my other reviews and free crochet patterns:

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  • Crochet Book Reviews

    Giving Back Crochet by Jonah Larson Review

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    Cover of Giving Back Crochet by Jonah Larson with a text overlay indicating this is a review of the book
    This post may contain affiliate links. All opinions are my own.

    Thanks to Annie’s Craft Store, I was given the opportunity to review one of their newest crochet book releases: Giving Back Crochet by Jonah Larson and I have a copy of the book to giveaway to one lucky reader! Keep reading to learn more about this book and how you can enter to win a copy of your own.

    Jonah Larson is a world renowned crochet prodigy who taught himself to crochet using YouTube videos at the age of 5. This little guy has taken the crochet world by storm. His business, Jonah’s Hands, sells everything from apparel, memorbilia, items handmade by Jonah, videos and book. Giving Back Crochet is one of a few different crochet books that have been in the pipeline for Jonah and I’m excited to see what it has in store.

    crochet mittens in three different sizes and colours.

    Giving Back Crochet has 26 crochet patterns designed specifically for charitable giving. The book contains patterns for a variety of projects, some of which include:

    • Bracelets
    • Blankets
    • Hats
    • Scarves
    • Mittens
    • Baskets
    • Soap Sacks
    • Lip Balm Holder
    • Slippers

    The book includes a series of basic crochet instructions as a reference section in the back kof the book. The instructions are accompanied with illustrations to assist you through the written steps. The reference section was clear and easy to follow. The reference section did not contain the illustrated instructions for all the stitches/stitch variations used in the book but a quick Google search could get you anything you felt you needed further clarification on.

    Textured Crochet Beanies worn by a male and female in brown and blue.

    A fun item included in the book is a set of three different gift tags that you can print and cut out to include with your charitable crochet projects. Since this book is available as a printable PDF, you can print this page out over and over again to have an endless supply of tags to accompany all your projects.

    Check out the video version of this review

    The patterns in Giving Back Crochet are written in U.S. terminology and the patterns themselves were easy to follow. The projects use a variety of Yarnspirations yarns so finding the necessary materials to make the items couldn’t be easier. Some of the projects could be a bit on the pricey side though. There is a beautiful blanket pattern in the book that uses 10 balls of Bernat Blanket yarn, which normally runs at about $12 CAD plus tax here so could get a bit expensive. But, if you plan ahead and use sales/coupons, or substitute another more lower priced yarn, the blanket could be done for much cheaper which would enable you to donate more for the same cost. If the cost is not prohibitive to you, the Bold Blue Stripes blanket is really stunning and bound to wow anyone that you give it to.

    Blue and white corner to corner blanket pattern in Giving Back Crochet by Jonah Larson

    The patterns are accompanied by beautiful and clean photography that give you a really great sense of the finished projects.

    I would say that the book is suitable for an intermediate level, experienced crocheter. Because things like illustrated instructions for all stitch variations aren’t present, I think having some crochet knowledge would be helpful in using this book. But, as I said above, anything not present in the book can quickly be found with a quick Google search if you aren’t sure how to execute it.

    If you like to crochet for charity, the book contains some beautiful projects that give you enough variety that you don’t get burnt out making the same thing over and over again. If you want to purchase a copy of Giving Back Crochet by Jonah Larson, you can check it out HERE.

    Soap savers made with a crochet pattern found in the new Jonah Larson book.

    If you enjoy crochet pattern books, you can check out some more of my crochet book reviews on my blog:

    Thanks to Annie’s Craft Store, I have a PDF copy of the book Giving Back Crochet by Jonah Larson to giveaway to one lucky winner!

    The Giving Back Crochet Giveaway on The Loopy Lamb is open to worldwide participants and ends Friday, July 31st, 2020 at 11:45pm Eastern Standard time.

    To enter, use the King Sumo form below. If you are on mobile and have difficulty entering, please use a desktop computer to enter. Only the Email option is mandatory – all other tasks are optional, for bonus entries only. Please note that by entering your email below, you are subscribing to The Loopy Lamb email list. We will not send you spam, just notifications about new free crochet patterns, news and giveaways.

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  • Product Reviews

    The Hook Nook Tools Review and Giveaway

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    “This post may contain affiliate links. All opinions are my own”

    We Crochet has recently launched a fun new line of products for crocheters on their website from social influencer and designer Jessica Cary of The Hook Nook. They’ve sent me some items from the Hook Nook tools product line to check out and share with you all. You can keep reading to check out a run down of what they sent and my review of The Hook Nook tools and accessories I was sent. A video review is available as well so you can see me open the products and check them out for the first time. Check out the Hook Nook Tool Shop HERE. I’m also giving away an epic Hook Nook Tools Set! Keep reading to learn how to enter.

    These products were provided to me free of charge but all opinions are my own.

    Before I get started in the review, I want to note how excited I am that We Crochet is making so many tools and accessories accessible to Canadians that were previously only accessible to the U.S.. Hook Nook tools were previously available for purchase only at Joanne’s stores, which we don’t have in Canada. So if you’re Canadian and have been drooling over these tools on Instagram, you can get them shipped directly to your door and they’re qualifier for free shipping, is really reasonable for shipping from the U.S..

    Check Out the Unboxing of The Hook Nook Products I Received

    The Hook Nook Crochet Hooks

    Blue Hook Nook Crochet hook in its packaging.

    We Crochet (crochet.com) has a few different types of crochet hooks from The Hook Nook available on their site. Some of which include a interchangeable crochet hook set, jumbo crochet hooks and standard plastic crochet hooks. I was sent a 6mm (J) plastic crochet hook. The hook itself was really comfortable to work with and light in my hand. The handle of the hook is longer than other hooks that I’ve used so it could be comfortable for people with large and small hands alike. There were no obvious rough spots that would be an issue while crocheting. Overall, it’s a pretty and good-quality crochet hook. They come in a full range of sizes on the Crochet.com website. You can check them and the other crochet hooks in The Hook Nook product line HERE.

    Skein Savers

    Gold and Marbelized Hook Nook Skein Savers from the Hook Nook Tools line of products

    The Hook Nook Skein Savers are fun and cute. They remind me of the hair elastics I used as a kid that had little plastic balls on them. But the little balls on these skein savers have skipped the neon and polka dots of those 90’s hair elastics and opted for more mature patterns like marbeling and matte gold. The Hook Nook Skein Savers are made to wrap around your skein of yarn to prevent it from unravelling. I’ve used mine to hold cakes of yarn together as well as to hold multiple mini skeins of yarn together to keep project colours together. They were particularly handy for that use and helped me keep those minis more organized in my on the go project bag. There are another line of skein savers that have faux fur balls on them that are fun as well. You can check out The Hook Nook Skein Savers HERE on the We Crochet website.

    Project Labels

    A set of project labels available in the new Hook Nook Tools product line available at Wecrochet.com.

    Also available from The Hook Nook is a range of project labels. There are currently wooden project labels, faux leather project labels and some fabric project labels. I was sent a set of the faux leather project labels.

    The faux leather project labels that I was sent contained 6 labels in 3 different shapes/sizes with 3 different sayings on them. The sayings were:

    • Hooked on You
    • Hand Crafted for Less Than Minimum Wage
    • One of a Kind and it Took Freaking Forever

    The labels themselves were soft, smooth and of good quality. The largest labels would be great to be added to blankets and the smaller two labels could be used for a variety of projects. The sayings are fun, sassy and relatable for not just crocheters but a wide-variety of crafters. Check out the Hook Nook Project Labels HERE.

    Bent-Tip Tapestry Needles

    Hook Nook Bent Tip Darning Needles

    The Hook Nook Tapestry Needles were my personal favourites. I can’t live without my bent tip tapestry needles and these tapestry needles were fab. The set comes with 6 gold tapestry needles in 2 different sizes. The tips are bent at a much bigger angle than any other bent tip needle I’ve tried.

    Beyond the needles themselves, the needles come in a small, sealable container. The container has a pretty gold rose on the cap and has a hexagonal shape to it. I mention the shape of the container because I thought it was a pretty cool design feature. All my other tapestry needle containers are round and that means that they can be prone to rolling off tables. The hexagonal shape of this container makes it much harder to roll so no more searching on the floor for fallen tapestry needle cases for me. You can check out The Hook Nook Tapestry Needles HERE.

    You can check out the full line of The Hook Nook Products HERE on the We Crochet website.

    I hope you enjoyed my Hook Nook Tools Review! While you’re here check out some of my other reviews:

    Hook Nook Tools Giveaway!

    Set of Hook Nook Tools and Accessories laid out on a white backdrop
    The Hook Nook Tools & Accessories up for grabs in the giveaway!

    The lovely folks over at We Crochet have generously provided some Hook Nook goodies for us to giveaway to one lucky reader! The giveaway package includes:

    • A Set of Skein Savers
    • 3 Enamel Pins
    • A Set of Darning Needles
    • An End Weaver Tool
    • A Notions Kit that includes: Scissors, Stitch Markers, Darning Needles, A Measuring Tape and a Zippered Storage Pouch

    The Hook Nook Tool Set Giveaway on The Loopy Lamb is open to Canadian and U.S. participants and ends Friday, July 31st, 2020 at 11:45pm Eastern Standard time.

    To enter, use the King Sumo form below. If you are on mobile and have difficulty entering, please use a desktop computer to enter. Only the Email option is mandatory – all other tasks are optional, for bonus entries only. Please note that by entering your email below, you are subscribing to The Loopy Lamb email list. We will not send you spam, just notifications about new free crochet patterns, news and giveaways.

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  • Crochet Patterns

    Crochet Christmas Gnome Free Pattern

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    crochet christmas gnome wearing a knobbly red hat surrounded by Christmas decorations
    This post may contain affiliate links.

    When it comes to making crochet Christmas gifts, you’ve got to start early. It requires a lot of planning in order to get everything done in time to get your crochet gifts under the tree. (If you need help planning, check out my Holiday Gift Project Planner article and download the free tracker to get yourself on-track for Christmas gift making). But, if I’m honest, Christmas sneaks up on me EVERY. YEAR. And despite my best intentions, I always end up changing the plan last minute or falling behind. When I designed this crochet christmas gnome free pattern, I kept that in mind. I know I’m not the only one that wants to whip up something fun and unique for Christmas each year but it needs to happen fast. So, Gnorman Gnome was created.

    Pin it for later Save

    Gnorman Gnome’s base is made with faux fur yarn (I used Fable Fur Yarn from Crochet.com HERE) which gives him the furry beard that a gnome needs without brushing out strands of yarn, attaching strands of yarn etc. The Fable Fur yarn is a super bulky weight yarn so the base whips up in a flash. If you haven’t seen my other faux fur yarn crochet patterns that I’ve published so far, check them out here: Kaya the Koala, Crochet Koala Keychain, Seth the Sloth, Salty the Seal and Otis the Owl.

    Adding Pellets to the Base of Your Crochet Gnome

    Polypellets/plastic pellets are added to the base to help keep Gnorman Gnome standing upright and also enables him to be utilized as a door stop.

    To add the pellets to the base, you need to have the pellets contained to prevent them from coming out of your crochet. I used cheep nylon anklets that I got fro the dollar store. It was a package of 2 pairs for $1.25. That gives me enough to do at least 4 different projects that use the plastic pellets for a small price. I fill the nylon I’m using with pellets until I feel satisfied with the weight/amount that fits inside the base and then I tie a knot in the nylon, close to the top of the pellets. Usually I have enough nylon left over to turn the remaining nylon inside-out to pull it over the part containing the pellets to double up the amount of nylon covering the pellets. I knot it again and place it inside my project.

    If you plan to give Gnorman Gnome to a child that may be a bit rough with him, you may want to sew a small pouch for your pellets to go into as a cotton fabric pouch would be more secure that the nylons.

    The hat for this crochet christmas gnome is made using worsted weight yarn and works up quickly. The hat was designed to give it a lumpy/twisted look but still stay upright. The top starts off in a cork-screw type curl and then some lumps and bumps are added as you progress. The hat features only one colour change so it limits the amount of ends you weave in. I’ve also given instructions to limit how noticeable the colour change is. Using the invisible join technique, the colour change is practically… well… invisible!

    Two little feet are created using black worsted weight yarn and they aren’t stuffed so that Gnorman Gnome can stand up on his own. A small nose is created using a cream coloured yarn (or any skin tone you’d prefer) in worsted weight and sewn onto the base. So in total there are 5 quick and easy to make parts that make up this crochet christmas gnome free pattern. It’s a great crochet christmas gift and you can make an army of them in no time. Let’s get started making our crochet christmas gnome Gnorman Gnome.

    (If you’re looking for some other last-minute crochet christmas gifts, check out this round-up of free crochet patterns that make great last-minute gifts HERE. You may also be interested in checking out my Free Crochet Christmas Decoration Pattern Round-Up as well.)

    Christmas in July Make Along

    I’m participating in the Christmas in July Make Along with Underground Crafter. Come join the fun! 31 bloggers have teamed up to bring you a month full of free patterns to kick start the handmade holiday season — including crochet, knitting, sewing, and crafting projects. There’s something new to make every day in July. Each week will have a theme.

    Week 1 (July 1-7): Babies, Kids, and Teens
    Week 2 (July 8-14): Women
    Week 3 (July 15-21): Gifts for Anyone
    Week 4 (July 22-28): Home
    Week 5 (July 29-31): Pets

    We’ve also partnered with some of our favorite companies to get some great prizes for you. Find out more information about participating designers, the schedule, and how to enter to win the prizes on Underground Crafter. The deadline for entering the giveaway is Tuesday, August 4, 2020 at 11:59 p.m. Eastern.

    How To Join the 2020 Christmas in July Make Along

    • You can join in by crocheting, knitting, sewing, or making the projects as you have time.
    • Share your progress and post pictures of your finished projects. Tag your projects and posts #CIJMakeAlong2020 on all social media.
    • If you’d like to chat with other crafters, join the Underground Crafters Facebook group
    • By the end of the Make Along, you’ll have up to 31 awesome projects. Get ready for the handmade holiday season while having fun with us!

    Visit Underground Crafter to learn more about the prizes, enter the giveaway, and to get links to each Christmas in July Make Along post as it is released.

    Crochet Christmas Gnome Free Pattern: Gnorman Gnome

    Side profile of the crochet scandinavian gnome project

    Skill Level:

    • Intermediate


    Terminology:

    • U.S. Terminology

    You can purchase an inexpensive ad-free PDF version of this pattern for a small fee HERE on Ravelry and HERE on Etsy.

    Supplies:

    If you’re planning on buying the materials for this project, please consider doing so through this affiliate link. It helps to support the blog at zero cost to you and allows me to continue to bring you great free crochet patterns like this one.

    Abbreviations:

    • CH = Chain
    • ST = Stitch
    • SL ST = Slip Stitch
    • MC = Magic Circle
    • SC = Single Crochet
    • SCINC = Single Crochet Increase
    • SCDEC = Single Crochet Decrease
    • FO = Finish Off

    Tutorials You May Find Helpful For this Project

    Tips & Tricks for Working with Faux Fur Yarn

    How to do the Magic Circle

    How to do the Single Crochet Stitch

    Finished Size: 

    • Approximately 10” tall from bottom of base to tip of hat and approximately 6” wide at the widest point of the base

    Gauge: 

    • Base Gauge: 4 sts x 5 rows = 2”
    • Hat and Feet Gauge: 11 sts x 12 rows = 2”
    • Gauge is not vital to the project as long as tension is maintained throughout the project and there are no holes where stuffing can be seen.  However, please note if you do not match gauge, it will affect the size of your project and therefore, potentially the amount of yarn required.

    Notes:

    • The base of this project is worked with the wrong side facing out to show the better-looking side of the fur. 
    • This project is worked in continuous rounds.  Do not join at the end of every row (unless indicated).  Use a stitch marker to mark the first stitch of every round, moving it up at the start of each new round.

    Special Techniques:

    • Invisible Join: FO leaving a tail that is at least 5 – 6 inches in length.  Thread the tail onto a tapestry needle.  Place the tapestry needle through the top of the 2nd ST from front to back and pull through.  Place tip of needle into top of the last ST of the round, under the back loop of the stitch, and pull through to the back of the work.  Weave in the end.

    Crochet Christmas Gnome Free Pattern – Gnorman Gnome:

    Crochet Christmas Gnome with a furls crochet hook and a skein of fable fur yarn

    Base

    Round 1: Using Fable Fur in Ursa and 5.5 mm crochet hook, make a MC and SC 6 into the MC. (6)
    Round 2: (SCINC) x 6. (12)
    Round 3: (SC, SCINC) x 6. (18)
    Round 4: (SC 2, SCINC) x 6. (24)
    Round 5: (SC 3, SCINC) x 6. (30)
    Rounds 6 – 16:  SC around (30)
    Join last ST to he first ST with a SL ST and FO and weave in ends.

    Nose

    Round 1: Using Brava Worsted Weight in Cream and 3.5 mm crochet hook, make a MC and SC 6 into the MC. (6)
    Round 2: (SCINC) x 6. (12)
    Round 3: (SC, SCINC) x 6. (18)
    Rounds 4 – 6:  SC around (18)
    Round 7: (SC, SCDEC) x 6. (12) – Start adding stuffing.  Adding a bit more with after each row.  Stuff firmly.
    Round 8: (SCDEC) x 6. (6)
    FO leaving a long tail to sew onto the base.

    close up shot of the red and whit knobbly hat worn by the gnome in this Crochet Christmas Gnome Free Pattern

    Hat

    Round 1: Using Brava Worsted Weight in Red and 3.5 mm crochet hook, make a MC and SC 5 into the MC. (5)
    Round 2: SC around (5)
    Round 3: (SCINC) x 5. (10)
    Round 4: SC 9, SC 5 in the last ST (14)
    Round 5:     (SCDEC) x 3, SC 8, SC 5 in the last ST (16)
    Round 6: (SCDEC) x 3, SC 9, SC 5 in the last ST (17)
    Round 7: (SCDEC) x 3, SC 10, SC 5 in the last ST (18) – Start stuffing tip of hat and continue to add stuffing as you go.
    Rounds 8 – 9:  SC around (18)
    Round 10: (SCDEC) x 3, SC 11, SC 5 in the last ST (19)
    Round 11: (SCDEC) x 3, SC 12, SC 5 in the last ST (20)
    Round 12: (SCINC) x 2, SC 16, (SCINC) x 2 (24)
    Round 13: (SC 3, SCINC) x 6 (30) – Stop stuffing hat.  Further stuffing will be added during assembly.
    Rounds 14 – 15: SC around (30)
    Round 16:  SC 2, SCINC, (SC 4, SCINC) x 5, SC 2 (36)
    Round 17:  SC 15, SC 5 in the next ST, SC 14, (SCDEC) x 3 (37)
    Round 18:  SC 12, SCINC, SC, SCINC, SC 16, (SCDEC) x 3 (36)
    Round 19: (SC 5, SCINC) x 6 (42)
    Round 20: SCINC, SC 18, SCINC, SC 22 (44)
    Round 21: (SC 10, SCINC) x 4 (48)
    Round 22: (SC 7, SCINC) x 6 (54)
    Rounds 23 – 24:  SC around (54)
    Round 25: (SC 8, SCINC) x 5, SC 8, SC 5 in the last ST (63)
    Round 26: SC, SCINC, SC 11, SCINC, SC 8, SCINC, SC 5, (SCDEC) x 5, SC 5, SCINC, (SC 6, SCINC) X 2, SC 4, SCINC (65)
    Round 27: SCINC, SC 2, SCINC, SC 60 (66)
    Round 28: (SC 9, SCINC) x 6, (SCDEC) x 3, SC (70)
    Round 29: (SCDEC) x 4, (SC 9, SCINC) x 6, SC 2 (72)
    Round 30: SC around (72)
    FO using invisible join (see special techniques),.  Attach white yarn to first ST of round 30.
    Round 31: (SC 11, SCINC) x 6 (78)
    Round 32: SC around (78)
    Round 33: (SC 12, SCINC) x 6 (84)
    Round 34: SC around (84)
    Round 35: (SC 13, SCINC) x 6 (90)
    Rounds 36 – 39: SC around (90)
    FO using invisible join (see special techniques), leaving a long tail to secure hat to faux fur base.

    Crochet Gnome with a furry beard and a knobbly red and white hat

    Feet (Make two)

    Round 1: Using Brava Worsted yarn in Black and 3.5 mm crochet hook, make a MC and SC 6 into the MC. (6)
    Round 2: (SCINC) x 6. (12)
    Round 3: (SC, SCINC) x 6. (18)
    Round 4: (SC 2, SCINC) x 6 (24)
    Rounds 5 – 7: SC around (24)
    Round 8: SCDEC, SC 10, SCDEC, SC 10 (22)
    Round 9: SC around (22)
    Round 10: SCDEC, SC 9, SCDEC, SC 9 (20)
    Round 11: SC around (20)
    Round 12: SCDEC, SC 8, SCDEC, SC 8 (18)
    Round 13: SC around (18)
    Round 14: SCDEC, SC 7, SCDEC, SC 7 (16)
    Round 15: (SCDEC) x 2, SC 4, (SCDEC) x 2, SC 4 (12)
    Round 16: (SCDEC) x 6 (6)
    FO leaving a long tail. DO NOT STUFF.  Weave the tail through the FLO to close the opening. 

    Assembly

    Sew the nose onto the base two rows down from the top. 

    Add plastic pellets/weighted beads to nylon stocking.  Secure closed and place inside the faux fur base. Add stuffing to base around and on top of the nylon stocking.

    Place the hat on top of the faux fur base and use the tail to sew onto the base, adding stuffing to the hat and base as you seam.  Stuff firmly. 

    Sew feet onto bottom of the base so that the tips of the feet stick out a bit beyond the fur so that they are visible.

    I hope you have enjoyed this crochet christmas gnome free pattern for Gnorman Gnome! I’d love to see your finished gnomes so don’t forget to tag me @theloopylamb when sharing on Facebook and Instagram.

    Disclaimer:

    Feel free to sell the item created by this pattern but please provide pattern credit back to me when posting online, and please provide a link to my blog: http://www.theloopylamb.com.  Please do not resell, distribute, duplicate, or share this pattern in any printed or digital form, or claim this pattern as your own original design.  Please do not use my photos when selling your finished items.   

    I’d love to see your finished items made with this crochet christmas gnome free pattern!  Please share your finished makes by tagging the pattern on Ravelry, sharing it to our Facebook page or Instagram.  Don’t forget to follow me on Facebook, Instagram and Pinterest 

    Facebook: www.facebook.com/TheLoopyLamb
    Instagram:      www.instagram.com/TheLoopyLamb
    Youtube: The Loopy Lamb YouTube Channel
    Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/theloopylamb
    Newsletter: Sign up for my newsletter!

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  • Product Reviews

    Hawthorne Fingering Yarn Review: Hand-Paint Speckle

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    Two hanks of We Crochet Hawthorne Fingering Weight Yarn with a Furls Crochet hook with a text overlay indicating this is a Hawthorne Fingering Yarn Review.
    This post may contain affiliate links.

    I was recently sent some Hawthorne Fingering Hand-Paint Speckle yarn’s newest colourways from We Crochet (crochet.com) to try out and I decided to share with you my experience working with it in this Hawthorne Fingering Hand-Paint Speckle Yarn Review

    This yarn was provided to me free of charge but all opinions are my own.

    Hawthorne Fingering Hand-Paint Speckle Yarn is, like the name suggests a fingering weight, size 1 yarn. Hawthorne Fingering Hand-Paint Speckle yarn is a 80% Fine Superwash HighlandWool, 20% Polyamide (Nylon) blend. It currently comes in a 100g hank which contains 357 yards of yarn. It’s machine washable and dryable, which is a feature that I always appreciate in a yarn!

    Keep in mind that when ordering that because the speckles are hand-painted, the colours may vary from skein to skein. So, as with hand-dyed/indie dyed yarn, if you get two skeins that have noticeable colour differences, alternate using the skeins every row or every few rows so your project looks more cohesive.

    Crochet swatch made with Hawthorne Fingering yarn in panel tone with a furls crochet hook on top.
    Swatch done in Hawthorne Fingering Hand-Paint Speckle in Panel Tone Speckle.
    Alpha Series Hook by Furls Crochet

    The recommended hook sizes for this yarn is 2.25mm – 3.5mm (2.25mm – 3.25mm needle for all you knitters out there). You can definitely get away with a bigger hook with this yarn. I am currently working with it using a 4.5mm hook and love the look of it. It has great stitch definition. The crochet gauge information on the label (using the recommended hook sizes) is as follows:

    • Crochet Gauge: 21 – 32 SCs = 4″
    Crochet swatch made with panel tone speckle yarn which is part of this Yarn Review
    Crochet swatch created with Hawthorne Fingering yarn in Panel Tone Speckle

    If you’re planning on buying some Hawthorne Fingering Hand-Paint Speckle Yarn, please consider doing so through this affiliate link. It helps to support the blog at zero cost to you and allows me to continue to bring you great free yarn reviews like this one and free crochet patterns.

    We Crochet Hawthorne Fingering Weight Hand Speckle Yarns in Cobbler Speckle and Pantone Speckle

    Check out the video version of this review below:

    Hawthorne Fingering Hand-Paint Speckle Yarn Colours

    I was sent two colours to try, Panel Tone and Cobbler Speckle. The Panel Tone and Cobbler Speckle are two of the latest colourways and they are absolutely beautiful. In the past, I’ve had a love/hate relationship with variegated or speckled yarns. I love the way it looks in the hank or skein but then I can never find a project that works with the yarn in a way that appeals to me. I’ve bought many pretty multi-coloured yarns with good intentions, only to get frustrated and abandon the project or gift the yarn to someone else. But this yarn has definitely made me reconsider. Working up the swatches, the neutral/subtle base colour really helps highlight the speckles and they look so pretty, even in the small swatches that I did. I even decided to start a design with one and I haven’t been able to put it down. Currently on the We Crochet website, there are 15 different colourways available in this yarn.

    Crochet Swatch with an alpha series crochet hook laid on top of it.
    Crochet swatch worked in Hawthorned Fingering Berry Speckle
    Alpha Series Hook from Furls Crochet

    Of the two colourways I was sent, the Cobbler Speckle is my favourite. I want to keep calling it berry cobbler because that’s what it reminds me of. It makes me think of spring time and fresh berries and the first warm breeze of the spring season. Yes, a yarn made me feel all that and I loved it, ok?! Honestly, it’s absolutely beautiful and I can’t wait to see the finished project in all it’s berry speckled glory.

    If you would like to support my blog, you can do so by doing your regular shopping on Amazon. As an Amazon affiliate, I earn a small commission on qualifying purchases made through my Amazon link, which in turn helps to support the blog so I can keep bringing you patterns and great content like this for free.

    Crochet swatch created in Hawthorne Fingering Weight Cobbler Speckle
    Crochet swatch worked up in the Cobbler Speckle colourway of Hawthorne Fingering Yarn from We Crochet

    Hawthorne Fingering Yarn Review: What Does it Feel Like?

    Let’s chat about how this yarn feels. I hear from a lot of people that they are hesitant to order yarn online because they want to be able to touch the yarn. I get it. I’m a serial yarn squisher and have definitely put off some online orders just because I wasn’t sure if I would like how it felt.

    I was honestly surprised by how soft this yarn felt. I’ve worked with some highland wool blends before that were quite scratchy so I was surprised to find that this yarn was soft. I definitley will wear this in a project next to bare skin and do not anticipate my sensitive skin to be irriated by it. This yarn has been really enjoyable to work with. I’m working on a design with it currently and haven’t had any issues with it feeling scratchy, irritating my skin or being unpleasant. In fact, I can’t wait to use it!

    Have you tried Hawthorne Fingering Hand-Paint Speckle yarn yet? What did you think? Let me know what you thought in the comments below!

    Don’t forget to follow me on Facebook, Instagram and Pinterest to see all my newest content, behind the scenes sneak peeks and be the first to know when I’m hosting giveaways.

    I hope you enjoyed my Hawthorne Fingering Yarn Review! While you’re here check out some of my other reviews:

    Facebook: www.facebook.com/TheLoopyLamb
    Instagram:    www.instagram.com/TheLoopyLamb
    Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/theloopylamb
    Subscribe to my YouTube Channel: The Loopy Lamb on YouTube
    Newsletter: Sign up for my newsletter!

    read more
  • Crochet Patterns

    Crochet Doll with Clothes: My Dolly Molly – Part 3

    /
    Crochet doll with clothes next to come crochet accessories and a text overlay indicating a free crochet pattern.
    This post may contain affiliate links.

    I’m so excited to share my crochet doll with clothes pattern to make My Dolly Molly with you! This crochet doll with clothes free pattern will be split into 3 separate parts for the My Dolly Molly Crochet Along. This post contains information on how to join the crochet along and Part Three of the pattern. Check back each Friday for the next part of the pattern.

    I hope you will join along with us for the crochet along. If you do, you can join The Loopy Lamb Crochet Community Group on Facebook where we’ll be chatting and sharing our progress.

    The crochet doll with clothes pattern for My Dolly Molly has been split into three parts to make creating her a little more manageable and so you can crochet along with us. Please reference the posts below for each part of the CAL and instructions.

    ***Join the My Dolly Molly Crochet Along Here! Add this design to your Ravelry queue HERE!

    Pin it for later Save

    Before we get more into the pattern, let’s talk about My Dolly Molly. Molly is a crochet doll with clothes that are removeable. For the crochet along, Molly’s dress is made as a separate piece and can be removed and put back on the doll. If you all want to see more outfits and accessories for Molly, let me know and I can try to create some more free doll clothes patterns for her in future posts.

    Molly was designed in a way that minimizes sewing. Molly’s legs, body and head are all crocheted in a single piece. The arm and hair are made separately and sewn on. Her doll dress is crocheted in a separate piece and as mentioned above, is removeable. There is some sewing for the dress in order to fasten the buttons but that was unavoidable in order to make the dress removeable.

    You can purchase an inexpensive ad-free PDF version of this pattern with all three parts together in one convenient file HERE on Ravelry and HERE on Etsy.

    Crochet Doll With Clothes Pattern: My Dolly Molly – CAL Part 3

    My Dolly Molly Crochet doll with some furls crochet hooks and yarn.

    Skill Level:

    • Intermediate

    Supplies:

    If you’re planning on buying the materials for this project, please consider doing so through this affiliate link. It helps to support the blog at zero cost to you and allows me to continue to bring you great free crochet patterns like this one.

    Abbreviations:

    • CH = Chain
    • ST = Stitch
    • SK = Skip
    • SL ST = Slip Stitch
    • MC = Magic Circle
    • SC = Single Crochet
    • SCINC = Single Crochet Increase
    • SCDEC = Single Crochet Decrease
    • HDC = Half Double Crochet
    • DC = Double Crochet
    • FO = Finish Off


    Finished size:

    • Approximately 9” tall and 5.5” wide from arm tip to arm tip

    Gauge:

    • Doll: 5 sts across x 7 rows = 1” square
    • Dress: 5 sts across x 7 rows = 1” square


    NOTES:

    • This pattern is worked in continuous rounds (unless stated otherwise).  Do not join at the end of the row, unless indicated.  A stitch marker is used to keep track of the beginning of the round.
    • For a cleaner SCDEC, do your SCDEC under the front loops only of each stitch rather than under both loops.  This is often referred to as an invisible decrease.

    Check out the Step-By-Step Video Tutorial for this Crochet Doll With Clothes Free Pattern Below:

    If you would like to support my blog, you can do so by doing your regular shopping on Amazon. As an Amazon affiliate, I earn a small commission on qualifying purchases made through my Amazon link, which in turn helps to support the blog so I can keep bringing you patterns and great content like this for free.

    Back view of the crochet doll with clothes made with this free crochet pattern

    Pattern

    Hair

    Round 1: Using 3.5mm hook and Brava Worsted in Paprika, make a MC and SC 6 into the MC. (6)
    Round 2: (SCINC) x 6 (12)
    Round 3: (SC 1, SCINC) x 6 (18)
    Round 4: SC 1, SCINC, (SC 2, SCINC) x 5, SC 1 (24)
    Round 5: (SC 3, SCINC) x 6 (30)
    Round 6: SC 2, SCINC, (SC 4, SCINC) x 5, SC 2 (36)
    Round 7: (SC 5, SCINC) x 6 (42)
    Round 8: (SC 13, SCINC) x 3 (45)
    Round 9: SC around (45)
    Round 10: SC, CH 15, SCINC in the 2nd CH from the hook and each CH across, SC in the next ST of Round 9, HDC, DC 3, HDC, SC, SL ST, SC, HDC, DC 3, HDC, SC 3, (CH 15, SCINC in the 2nd CH and each CH across, SC in the next ST of Round 9) x 13, SCDEC, CH 15, SCINC in the 2nd CH and each CH across, SC in the next ST of Round 9, CH 15, SCINC in the 2nd CH and each CH across, SCDEC, CH 15, SCINC in the 2nd CH and each CH across, SC, CH 15,(SCINC in the 2nd CH and each CH across, SC in the next ST of Round 9) repeat instructions in brackets until one stitch in the round remains.  SC in the last ST, CH 15, SCINC in the 2nd CH and each CH across.  Join last ST to the first ST with a SL ST.  FO leaving a long tail.  Sew the hair onto the top of the head using the yarn tail.  Weave in ends.

    NOTE: To make longer strands of hair, CH the desired number of chains and SCINC in each ST up the CH.  To make curlier hair, try placing 3 SCs in each CH of the hair strand.  For less curly hair, try alternating between SCINC and SC up the CH (i.e. SCINC, SC, SCINC, SC)

    If you would like to join the My Dolly Molly Crochet Along, please join our Facebook group HERE!  You can post your yarn and yarn color selections, work-in-progress photos, and let us all know how your dolls are coming along. I can’t wait to see all of your finished dolls!

    Disclaimer:

    Feel free to sell the item created with this crochet doll with clothes pattern but please provide pattern credit back to me when posting online, and please provide a link to my blog: www.theloopylamb.com.  Please do not resell, distribute, duplicate, or share this pattern in any printed or digital form, claiming this pattern as your own original design.  Please do not use my photos when selling your finished items.  Utilizing or purchasing this pattern does not grant permission for mass production.

    I’d love to see your finished items!  Please share your finished makes by tagging the pattern on Ravelry, sharing it to our Facebook page or Instagram.  Don’t forget to follow me on Facebook, Instagram and Pinterest  Facebook: www.facebook.com/TheLoopyLamb
    Instagram:      www.instagram.com/TheLoopyLamb
    YouTube: The Loopy Lamb YouTube Channel
    Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/theloopylamb
    Newsletter: Sign up for my newsletter!

    read more
  • Crochet Patterns

    Crochet Doll Free Pattern: My Dolly Molly – Part 2

    /
    Crochet doll next to come crochet accessories and a text overlay indicating a crochet doll free crochet pattern.
    This post may contain affiliate links.

    I’m so excited to share Part 2 of my crochet doll free pattern to make My Dolly Molly with you! This crochet doll free pattern will be split into 3 separate parts for the My Dolly Molly Crochet Along. This post contains information on how to join the crochet along and Part Two of the pattern. Check back each Friday for the next part of the pattern.

    I hope you will join along with us for the crochet along. If you do, you can join The Loopy Lamb Crochet Community Group on Facebook where we’ll be chatting and sharing our progress.

    The crochet doll free pattern for My Dolly Molly has been split into three parts to make creating her a little more manageable and so you can crochet along with us. Please reference the posts below for each part of the CAL and instructions.

    • Part One: Body
    • Part Two: Arms, Embroidery and Dress
    • Part Three: Hair

    ***Join the My Dolly Molly Crochet Along Here! Add this design to your Ravelry queue HERE!

    Pin it for later Save

    Before we get more into the pattern, let’s talk about My Dolly Molly. Molly is a crochet doll with clothes that are removeable. For the crochet along, Molly’s dress is made as a separate piece and can be removed and put back on the doll. If you all want to see more outfits and accessories for Molly, let me know and I can try to create some more free doll clothes patterns for her in future posts.

    Molly was designed in a way that minimizes sewing. Molly’s legs, body and head are all crocheted in a single piece. The arm and hair are made separately and sewn on. Her doll dress is crocheted in a separate piece and as mentioned above, is removeable. There is some sewing for the dress in order to fasten the buttons but that was unavoidable in order to make the dress removeable.

    You can purchase an inexpensive ad-free PDF version of this pattern with all three parts together in one convenient file HERE on Ravelry and HERE on Etsy.

    My Dolly Molly with a furls crochet hook and some yarn, made with this crochet doll free pattern.

    Crochet Doll Free Pattern: My Dolly Molly – CAL Part 2

    Skill Level:

    • Intermediate

    Supplies:

    If you’re planning on buying the materials for this project, please consider doing so through this affiliate link. It helps to support the blog at zero cost to you and allows me to continue to bring you great free crochet patterns like this one.

    Abbreviations:

    • CH = Chain
    • ST = Stitch
    • SK = Skip
    • SL ST = Slip Stitch
    • MC = Magic Circle
    • SC = Single Crochet
    • SCINC = Single Crochet Increase
    • SCDEC = Single Crochet Decrease
    • HDC = Half Double Crochet
    • DC = Double Crochet
    • FO = Finish Off


    Finished size:

    • Approximately 9” tall and 5.5” wide from arm tip to arm tip

    Gauge:

    • Doll: 5 sts across x 7 rows = 1” square
    • Dress: 5 sts across x 7 rows = 1” square


    NOTES:

    • This pattern is worked in continuous rounds (unless stated otherwise).  Do not join at the end of the row, unless indicated.  A stitch marker is used to keep track of the beginning of the round.
    • For a cleaner SCDEC, do your SCDEC under the front loops only of each stitch rather than under both loops.  This is often referred to as an invisible decrease.

    Check out the Step-By-Step Video Tutorial for this Crochet Doll Free Pattern Below:

    Pattern

    Adding Eyelashes

    Using the black embroidery thread, embroider some eyelashes next to each eye.  Start in the stitch directly next to the center/side of each eye.  Insert the needle into the stitch two stitches to the right and back up through the stitch you started the eyelashes in.  Insert the needle into the stitch that is one stitch above and slightly to the left (for the first eyelash on the right side and to the right for the left eyelash) of tip of the first eye lash.  Repeat with the other eye.

    Close up of doll's face with arrows indicating where to place needle when embroidering eyelashes.
    completed eyelashes on crochet doll


    Nose

    Take a length of Brava Worsted in Cream and embroider a nose in Round 30 across 4 stitches.  Sew over the stitches multiple times until the nose sticks out from the face slightly.  FO and weave in end.

    Close up of the crochet doll nose on My Dolly Molly

    If you would like to support my blog, you can do so by doing your regular shopping on Amazon. As an Amazon affiliate, I earn a small commission on qualifying purchases made through my Amazon link, which in turn helps to support the blog so I can keep bringing you patterns and great content like this for free.



    Arms (make two)

    Round 1: Using 3.5mm hook and Brava Worsted in Cream, make a MC and SC 6 into the MC. (6)
    Round 2: (SCINC) x 6 (12)
    Rounds 3 – 4: SC around (12) – Add stuffing to the arms as you go.
    Round 5: (SC 2, SCDEC) x 3 (9)
    Rounds 6 – 7: SC around (9)
    Round 8: SCINC, SC 3, SCINC, SC 4 (11)
    Rounds 9 – 20: SC around (11)
    FO leaving a long tail.  Whip stitch the opening of the arm closed and sew onto the body of the doll, 1 round below the narrowest part of the neck.

    Molly the Dolly an her dress made with this crochet doll free pattern



    Dress

    Using Brava in Marina and 3.5mm hook, Ch 37
    Row 1: SC in the 7th CH from the hook and each remaining CH across. (30)
    Row 2: CH 1 and turn. (SC 2, SCINC) x 9, SC 4 (40)
    Row 3: CH 1 and turn.  SC 6, CH 6, SK 10, SC 8, CH 6, SK 10, SC 6 (32)
    Row 4: CH 1 and turn.  SC in each ST and CH across (32)
    Row 5: CH 1 and turn. SC across. (32)
    Row 6: CH 1 and turn. SC 5, SCINC, SC 7, SCINC, SC 4, SCINC, SC 7, SCINC, SC 5. (36)
    Row 7: CH 6 and turn.  SC in each ST across (36)
    Row 8: CH 1 and turn. SC 4, SCINC, SC 10, SCINC, SC 4, SCINC, SC 10, SCINC, SC 4 (40)
    Rows 9 – 13: CH 1 and turn.  SC across. (40)

    Amigurumi doll dress for this crochet doll free pattern


    Row 14: CH 1 and turn.  SC across. Join last ST to first ST with a SL ST. (40)
    Row 15: CH 1 and turn.  (SC in the first ST, SCINC in the next) x 20. Join last ST to first ST with a SL ST. (60)
    Row 16: CH 1 and turn.  (SCINC in the first ST, SC 2) x 20. Join last ST to first ST with a SL ST.  (80)
    Row 17: CH 1 and turn.  (SCINC in the first ST, SC 3) x 20. Join last St to first ST with a SL ST.  (100)
    Row 18: CH 1 and turn.  (SCINC in the first ST, SC 4) x 20. Join last St to first ST with a SL ST.  (120)
    FO and weave in ends.  The CH 6’s that created loops in Row 1 and Row 7 will act as button holes/fasteners to close the back of the dress.  Using sewing needle and thread, sew buttons onto the back of the dress, on the side opposite to the loops created in Rows 1 and 7.  Put dress on doll and fasten.

    If you would like to join the My Dolly Molly Crochet Along, please join our Facebook group HERE!  You can post your yarn and yarn color selections, work-in-progress photos, and let us all know how your dolls are coming along. I can’t wait to see all of your finished dolls!

    Disclaimer:

    Feel free to sell the item created with this amigurumi doll pattern but please provide pattern credit back to me when posting online, and please provide a link to my blog: www.theloopylamb.com.  Please do not resell, distribute, duplicate, or share this pattern in any printed or digital form, claiming this pattern as your own original design.  Please do not use my photos when selling your finished items.  Utilizing or purchasing this pattern does not grant permission for mass production.

    I’d love to see your finished items!  Please share your finished makes by tagging the pattern on Ravelry, sharing it to our Facebook page or Instagram.  Don’t forget to follow me on Facebook, Instagram and Pinterest  Facebook: www.facebook.com/TheLoopyLamb
    Instagram:      www.instagram.com/TheLoopyLamb
    YouTube: The Loopy Lamb YouTube Channel
    Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/theloopylamb
    Newsletter: Sign up for my newsletter!

    read more