Hello Everyone
As well as making things I also love to read. I hate it when I carry my book in my bag and the front cover gets damaged and pages get creased. I have come up with a super easy pattern for a book sleeve. This project is suitable for beginner sewers and also makes an easy project for kids to have a go at.
Find the video on how too make your book sleeve here –
I love seeing your makes so don’t forget to tag me in them on Instagram @Lexie_Loves_Stitching
Happy Sewing!
Hi Everyone!
Its been ages since I have done a blog post! I’ve been really busy with my University course and have had loads of work to do so I haven’t been blogging as much as I should at all!
Anyway, I have come up with a really east and super quick make that even the kids can do and will soon be making lots for their friends. Find the video here –
I love to see all your makes so don’t forget to tag me in your pictures on Instagram – @Lexie_Loves_Stitching.
Take care and happy crocheting!
Hello Everyone!
I hope you are all enjoying the summer and the sunny weather! I have made this super cute crochet bag in the style of a camera.
Find the Youtube tutorial here
For your bag you will need
This pattern is written in UK TERMS
Main Bag, make 2
Chain 31
Round 1: Start from the second chain from the hook. 1 half treble crochet (htc) in each stitch to the end of the round (30 stitches)
Round 2 – 18: Chain 1, turn, 1htc in each stitch (30 stitches). Fasten off yarn at the end of round 18 and cut.
Round 19: Attach contrasting colour yarn, chain 1, 1htc in the same stitch, 1 htc in remaining 29 stitches.
Round 20 – 24: Chain 1, turn, 1htc in each stitch (30 stitches). Fasten off yarn at the end of round 24 and cut.
Join your 2 panels together using slip stitches.
For the Camera Lens
Start with a magic ring (or ch4 and join with a slip stitch).
Round 1: 3ch, 5htr into ring. Join to third ch of initial 3ch with a slip stitch, pull the magic ring to close. [6st]
Round 2: 3ch, 1 htr into same stitch, 2 htr into each stitch, join to third ch of initial 3 ch with a slip stitch. [12st]
Round 3: 3ch, 1htr in same st, 1 htr in next st, *2 htr in next stitch, 1 htr in next; rep from * around. [24st]
Round 4: 3ch, 1 htr in same st, 1 htr in next 2st, *2htr in next st, 1 htr in next 2st; rep from * around. [36st]
Round 5: 3ch, 1 htr in same st, 1 htr in next 3st, *2 htr in next st, 1 htr in next 3st; rep from * around. [48st]. Fasten off yarn and cut.
Round 6: Attach white yarn, 3ch, 1 htr in same st, 1 htr in next 4st, *2tr in next st, 1tr in next 4st; rep from * around. [48st]
Round 7: 3ch, 1 htr in same st, 1 htr in next 4st, *2tr in next st, 1tr in next 4st; rep from * around. [60st]. Fasten off and cut yarn.
For The Flash
Using the black yarn, chain 7, 1 htc in the second chain from the hook and 1 htc in each chain space (6 stitches). Chain 1 turn. 1 htc in each stitch (6 stitches). Chain 1 turn. 1 htc in each stitch (6 stitches). Fasten off and cut yarn.
For The View Finder
Crochet 2 squares (one smaller then the other), one in black and one in white, sew the white on top of the black using white yarn.
Stitch all your appliqué pieces onto your bag.
For the handle, using three colours of yarn, chain a strap to the required length and attach to your bag.
Congratulations, you have made your bag!
Until next time, happy crocheting!!
Hello Everyone and welcome to my No Fuss Fish Pattern!
This easy crochet amigurumi fish works up really easily and you can use your scraps of leftover yarn to make him. If you’re not very confident at following patterns, find my YouTube tutorial here –
To make this little chap you will need –
This pattern is written in UK TERMS, do not turn your work between rounds.
Start with a Magic Circle, if you’re not sure how to do the magic circle, find a video here –
Round 1 – 6 dc into the magic circle, pull your magic circle closed,slip stitch to join to your first dc.
Round 2 – Ch1, *1dc into the first stitch, 2dc into the next* Continue * – * until the end of the round (9 Stitches).
Round 3 -Ch1, *1dc into the first 2 stitches, 2dc into the next* Continue * – * until the end of the round (12 Stitches).
Round 4 -Ch1, *1dc into the first 3 stitches, 2dc into the next* Continue * – * until the end of the round (15 Stitches).
Round 5 -Ch1, *1dc into the first 4 stitches, 2dc into the next* Continue * – * until the end of the round (18 Stitches).
Round 6 -Ch1, *1dc into the first 5 stitches, 2dc into the next* Continue * – * until the end of the round (21 Stitches).
Round 7 -Ch1, *1dc into the first 6 stitches, 2dc into the next* Continue * – * until the end of the round (24 Stitches). Fasten off yarn.
Round 8 – Attach contrasting yarn colour, 24 dc around. Fasten off yarn.
Round 9 – 17 – Attach original yarn colour, *24 dc around, slip stitch into the 1st stitch of the round, chain 1*. Repeat * – * for each round.
Its now time to stuff your fish and attach his safety eyes (see video above for best placement of eyes).
Round 18 – Skip 8 stitches, slip stitch into 9th stitch. Slip Stitch through both sides of your fish to close the gap (see video above if you need help). When you have closed the space fully, chain 4, skip the first chain and dc into the next 3 chain spaces, slip stitch into the next stitch (on the main body of the fish). Fasten off and cut your yarn.
Round 19 – Attach your yarn, dc2tog, dc in the next 2 stitches, dc2tog. Ch1 and turn. 1dc in each stitch around, slip stitch through both sides of your work to close (see video). Fasten off and cut your yarn.
Fins (Make 2) – Start with a magic circle. 1dc into the middle of the circle, 1htc, 1tc, 1htc, 1dc. Fasten off and pull your circle closed.
Tail – With main colour yarn, chain 7. 1dc in each stitch starting from the second chain from the hook. Tie off and cut your yarn. Attach your contrast colour, 1dc2tog, 1dc in the next 2 stitches, 1dc2tog in last 2 stitches, ch1, turn. 1dc in each stitch (4 stitches), ch1, turn, 1dc2tog, 1dc2tog (2 stitches), ch1, turn, 1dc in each to the 2 stitches, fasten off and secure your yarn.
Now sew all your parts together and you have made your fish!
Fill a large jar with gravel and decorate as you wish. Attach some thread to the top of your fish and glue the thread to the inside of the lid. When the glue is dry, pop the lid on and your fish will be ready to swim in his new home!!!
I hope you enjoyed this tutorial
Happy Crocheting
Hello Everybody!
Huge apologies that it has been sooooo long since I have published a new pattern! I have been so busy with Uni, work placement and life in general! I have lots of patterns to write up but I thought I would start with this super easy market bag and as July is plastic free month it fits in perfectly! I have also done a youtube tutorial for those that are not as confident at reading patterns so you won’t miss out!
FOR THE BAG YOU WILL NEED –
HANDY TIPS!
Start with a magic ring (or ch4 and join with a slip stitch).
Round 1: 3ch, 11tr into ring. Join to third ch of initial 3ch with a slip stitch, pull the magic ring to close. [12st]
Round 2: 3ch, 1tr into same stitch, 2tr into each stitch, join to third ch of initial 3 ch with a slip stitch. [24st]
Round 3: 3ch, 1tr in same st, 1 tr in next st, *2tr in next stitch, 1 tr in next; rep from * around. [36st]
Round 4: 3ch, 1 tr in same st, 1tr in next 2st, *2tr in next st, 1tr in next 2st; rep from * around. [48st]
Round 5: 1ch, 1dc in same st. *ch3, miss 1 stitch, 1dc in next; rep from * around until the second to last stitch. At this point make a half tr into beginning dc. (Placing a stitch marker on the last stitch of each row from here will help a lot! If you are stuck, have a look at my YouTube video.) [24 chain spaces].
Round 6: *4ch, 1dc in next ch sp; rep from * around until second to last ch sp, 1ch, 1htr into the top of the last st of the previous round (ie, into the top of the htr of previous round).
Round 7: *5ch, 1dc in next ch sp; rep from * around until second to last ch sp, 2ch, 1htr into the top of the last st of the previous round.
Round 8: *6ch, 1dc in next ch sp; rep from * around until second to last ch sp, 3ch, 1htr into the top of the last st of the previous round.
Round 9: *7ch, 1dc in next ch sp; rep from * around until second to last ch sp, 3ch, 1 tr into the top of the last st of the previous round.
Round 10 -25: Repeat Round 9
Round 26: Repeat round 8
Round 27: Repeat round 7
Round 28: 1ch, 1dc in same stitch, 2dc in space, 1dc in dc, *4dc in each ch sp, 1 dc in top of each dc of previous round; rep from * 2dc in last sp, ss to join to 1st dc [120]
Round 29-30: 1ch, 1 dc in same space, dc around, ss to join.
Row 1: 1tr in second chain from the hook, 1 dc in next 6st, turn [7]
Row 2: 1ch, 1tc along the next 7 stitches, turn [7]
Repeat Row 2 until desired handle length or when nearing the end of the yarn (I made my handle approx 46cm/18″).
Turn your bag inside out. Attach the handle to the bag using slip stitches. To attach to the opposite side, count how many stitches are around the top of the bag. I had 120 stitches. You want your handles evenly spaced, I counted 53 stitches along from the right side of my handle and stitch 54 was where I started to attach the other end of the handle. Make sure there are no twists in your handle before you attach it. I used simple slip stitches to attach my handle. Fasten off and sew ends in securely.
Congratulations! You have made yourself a market bag!
Until next time, happy crocheting!!
Hello Everyone!
I am so so sorry that I have not posted for ages! I have been super busy with University, my youngest taking her GCSE’s and life in general! I have designed this little dress which I have named the “Florence Dress” after the gorgeous little princess that I made it for. It consists of a crochet bodice and a fabric skirt. You don’t have to be an amazing dressmaker to fit the skirt to the bodice either. If you don’t have a machine you can easily hand stitch it on. This dress is suitable for advanced beginners/intermediate crocheters and is aged 18-24 months.
For your Florence Dress you will need –
This pattern is written in UK TERMS
Start by chaining 64
Round 1: In the second chain from hook, treble crochet (tc) and continue with a treble crochet (tc) until you reach the end of your chain (63 Stitches). (63 tc)
Round 2: Chain 1 (ch) and turn. 1 tc into each of the next 2 stitches, 2tc into the next stitch. Repeat this until you get to the end of the round. (84tc)
Round 3: ch 1 turn. 1 tc into each of the next 3 stitches, 2tc into the next stitch. Repeat this until you get to the end of the round. (105tc)
Round 4: ch1 turn. 1tc into first stitch, skip 1 stitch, *V stitch into next stitch (tc, ch 2, tc), skip the next stitch* Repeat * to * until end. Tc in final stitch.
Round 5: ch1, 1 tc in first stitch. In v stitch chain space we are going to do a shell. For this you need to do – 2 treble crochet together (2tctog) ch1, 2 tctog, ch1, 2tctog. Next, move on to the tc from the previous round and do 1tc into this stitch. Repeat this until end. 1tc into the last remaining stitch.
Round 6: ch 1 turn. 1tc in first stitch. *Into the chain space of the shell from the previous round, V stitch– (tc, ch1, tc) repeat in next ch1 space of the shell. Next, move on to the tc from the previous round and do 1tc into this stitch*. Repeat * to * until end. 1tc into the last remaining stitch.
Round 7: ch 1 turn, 1 tc in first stitch. In v stitch chain space we are going to do a shell. For this you need to do – 2 treble crochet together (2tctog) ch1, 2 tctog, ch1, 2tctog. Next, move on to the tc from the previous round and do 1tc into this stitch. Repeat this until end. 1tc into the last remaining stitch.
Round 8: ch 1, turn. 1tc in first stitch. *Into the chain space of the shell from the previous round, V stitch– (tc, ch1, tc) repeat in next ch1 space of the shell. Next, move on to the tc from the previous round and do 1tc into this stitch*. Repeat * to * until end. 1tc into the last remaining stitch.
Round 9: ch 1, turn, 1 tc in first stitch. In v stitch chain space we are going to do a shell. For this you need to do – 2 treble crochet together (2tctog) ch1, 2 tctog, ch1, 2tctog. Next, move on to the tc from the previous round and do 1tc into this stitch. Repeat this until end. 1tc into the last remaining stitch.
Now its time to create the arm holes!
Round 10: ch 1, turn. 1 tc into the next 5 stitches, 2tc in the next stitch. Repeat this 4 times. Chain 3, skip 30 stitches (don’t forget to count the chains in your shells as stitches!) In the 31st stitch (which should be an individual tc), 1tc. 1 tc into the next 4 stitches, 2 tc into the next stitch. *1 tc into the next 5 stitches, 2tc in the next stitch*. Repeat * to * another 7 times. Chain 3, skip 30 sts, In the 31st stitch (which should be an individual tc), 1tc. 1 tc into the next 4 stitches, 2 tc into the next. *1 tc into the next 5 stitches, 2tc in the next stitch*. Repeat * to * another 3 times. Slip stitch into the first tc from the round to join. (119 stitches)
Round 11: ch 1, turn. 1 tc into every stitch including the chain stitches of the under arms. Slip stitch into first tc of the round.
Round 13: ch 1, turn. 1 tc into every stitch. Slip stitch into first tc of the round.
Round 14: ch 1, turn. 1 tc into every stitch. Slip stitch into first tc of the round.
Round 14: ch 1, turn. 1 tc into every stitch. Slip stitch into first tc of the round.
Round 15: This round is for the scalloped edge. If you want a straight edge, feel free to omit this round. Chain 3, 4tc into the first stitch, skip 1 stitch, slip stitch into the next stitch, skip one stitch, *5tc into the next stitch, skip 1 stitch, slip stitch into the next stitch*. Repeat *to * until the end. Fasten off your work and sew in the ends.
Congratulations!! You have finished your bodice!!!
For the skirt part of your Florence Dress, measure the width of the bottom of your bodice (just measure one side then multiply it by 2 to make your life easier!). Take this measurement and multiply it by 1.5. If you want a more gathered skirt, multiply the measurement by 2.
To make the gathers, tack or machine sew some basting stitches into the top of the fabric approximately 2cm from the top of your fabric. Make sure the stitches are long and also leave a long tail at the start and end of the row of basting stitches. DO NOT FASTEN THE STITCHES OFF!!! Pull one end of the stitches using the tail and your fabric should begin to gather. Keep pulling the thread until the fabric has gathered to the length that you need. Don’t forget to even out the gathers otherwise your Florence dress will not hang properly. Pin the fabric to the inside of your bodice and either machine or hand sew it in place.
Once your skirt is attached, remove your basting stitches, sew up the back seams (use pinking shears to finish the raw edge)
For the skirt hem, turn the bottom of the skirt up by 1cm and iron. Repeat this process once again. pin the hem in place and either machine or hand sew your hem. I used an embroidery stitch on my machine and made it look fancy but a plain stitch will be fine.
To finish off your dress just attach some buttons to the back opening and you are good to go!!!!!
CONGRATULATIONS! You have made your very own Florence Dress!
I would love to see your makes so feel free to tag me on Instagram (@lexie_loves_stitching) or send me pics via the contact page which you can find in the mail menu.
Happy Making!
Please be kind and do not copy my work as your own. You are free to use this pattern for personal use. If you wish to make this dress to sell, please be kind and credit me. Thank you xxxxxx
Hello Everyone.
As many of you on Crochet Beginners Group will have heard, one of our members – Emily and her 2 year old daughter Kaylee were tragically killed yesterday. Emilys family have asked for us to crochet hearts and flowers so that they can be handed out to other family members to show how much the crochet community are thinking of them at this awful time. I know how amazing and compassionate our community can be so feel free to get involved.
Here is the written and video patterns for the Heart and Flower Call To Hooks on Crochet Beginners Group. Once you have finished your hearts and flowers, please message the CBG Admin Page and we will send you the address of where to send your hearts and flowers.
Step 1
Ch7, sl st into first ch to form a loop
Step 2
*ch4, 3dtr into centre of loop, ch4, sl st into loop* repeat from * to * another 4 times to make 5 petals.
Hello Everyone!
I hope that you’ve all been enjoying the beautiful sunny weather that we have been having in the UK this week. It really has been beautiful and unseasonably warm but I have loved every minute of it!
This week I have been busy crocheting this beautiful cardigan from Sewrella. But!! I have personalised it by adding some colour and some granny square heart patch pockets. If you want to make one for yourself, then keep on reading to find out how! I have also added a YouTube video that you will find at the bottom of the page if you want to see it in the flesh.
For the main pattern you will need to head over to Ashleigh from Sewrellas blog page for her Everyday Crochet Cardigan. If you are not too confident with reading patterns Ashleigh has included her YouTube video for the cardigan on her page. For my cardigan I used Robin DK yarn instead of Aran and I used a 5.5mm hook. As I used a smaller yarn and hook, I crocheted a size MEDIUM but you can always use another cardigan that you already have to check that you are crocheting the correct size for you. I added some colour to the ribbing around the sleeves and around the bottom. Just add your colour after the first round of your ribbing and then go back to the main colour for the last round of the ribbing. I also added some double crochet around the bottom and edging of the cardigan in the contrasting colour.
For the heart granny square patch pocket, head over to the most beautiful crochet blog that is Redagape. You will need the pattern for the Heart Granny Square. Work up your granny square in the same colours as your cardigan then simply attach to the front panels of your cardigan.
Find my YouTube video here of my cardigan.
I love to see all your makes and receive your feedback so feel free to get in touch with me via the contact form which you can find at the top of the main home page.
Happy crocheting!
Hello Everyone
One of the most frequently asked questions that I get from brand new crocheters is “What sort of equipment do I need to start my crochet adventure?”. Well, in this post I am going to talk you through the few (and inexpensive) things you will need to get going. I will warn you though, you will soon have the biggest yarn stash ever and WILL become a crochet addict! I love crochet. It is my favourite thing to do. Crochet has helped me get through bad days, has given me the opportunity to make new friends and even makes me feel valued when I get lovely compliments about my work. So what are you waiting for?! Pick up that hook and yarn and join the best community that I have ever had the privilege of being part of!
Firstly, hooks! You do not need to buy yourself a super duper expensive hook. I started out with a simple 4mm aluminium hook.
4mm Clover Amour Hook
4mm Pony Aluminium Hook
Now for the yarn! Trust me when I say DO NOT start off with a dark coloured yarn such as black or navy. Dark colours are really hard to work with and you will end up seriously frustrated which is not what you want when you are first starting out. I suggest a light colour in Double Knit (or DK). I absolutely love the Robin Yarns from Thomas Ramsden. They are affordable and come in a huge variety of colours. My favourites for a beginner would be their Madonna 
Madonna Robin DK Yarn
Spearmint Robin DK Yarn
Stitch markers are also a great accessory for a beginner as they can help you to keep the edges of your work straight. I use Clover Locking Stitch Marker
Clover Locking Stitch Markers
If you are still feeling a bit overwhelmed by all this information, you can find my YouTube guide here to help you even more.
Please feel free to contact me via the contact page if you have any questions.
Happy Crocheting!
Hello Everybody and welcome to my blog!
This week I am going to teach you how to crochet a simple jumper for a baby. This pattern is really simple and only uses treble crochet. The size that is in this pattern is for a 6 to 12 month old baby. If you would like the pattern in a bigger size, then please contact me and I will send you the pattern. I have also done a YouTube video for this pattern so if you are not a confident pattern reader then I have popped the link to the video at the bottom of the page.
For this pattern you will need –
This pattern is written in UK Terms
Abbreviations:
Approx = Approximate(ly)
Beg = Begin(ning)
Ch = Chain(s)
Rem = Remain(ing)
RS = Right Side
WS = Wrong Side
Sl st = Slip stitch
Sp(s) = Space(s)
St(s) = Stitch(es)
Tc = Treble crochet
Tc2tog = Treble crochet 2 together
Tcbp = Treble crochet back post
Tcfp = Treble crochet front post
Rep = Repeat
Rnd(s) = Round(s)
Note: This jumper is worked in one piece from neck edge down.
A chain 3 at the beginning of a round counts as a treble crochet.
Start your jumper by chaining 56 stitches. Make sure you chain loosely as this foundation chain will need to pull over baby’s head. Join with slip stitch to first chain, taking care not to twist your chain (Check out my YouTube video for this pattern for a handy hack to stop your chain from twisting).
Round 1: Ch 3. 1 tc in the next 7chains. In the 8thchain, we are going to do a V stitch – 1 tc. Ch 1. 1 tc (all in that same 8thchain). 1 tc in each of next10chains. V-st in next ch. 1 tc in each of next 16ch. V-st in next ch. 1 tc in each of next 10ch. V-st in next ch. 1 tc in each of last 8 ch. Join with sl st to top of ch 3.
Dividing the Jumper Sleeves and Body:
Round 1: Ch 3. 1 tc in each of next 16tc. 1 c in ch-1 sp of next V-st. Ch 3 for underarm. Skip next 28tc. 1 tc in ch-1 sp of next V-st. 1 dc in each of next 34tc. 1 tc in ch-1 sp of next V-st. Ch 3 for underarm. Skip next 28 tc. 1 c in ch-1 sp of next V-st. 1 tc in each of last 17tc. Join with sl st to top of ch 3.
Round 2: Ch 3. 1 tc in each tc or ch around. Sl st to top of ch 3. 78 tc.
Round 3: Ch 3 1 tc in each tc around. Join with sl st to top of ch 3.
Round 4: Ch 3. 1 tc in each tc around. Join with sl st to top of ch 3. Rep last rnd until your jumper measures 11 cm from the under arm to the bottom of your jumper.
Ribbing: Ch 2. *tcbp around post of next st. tcfp around post of next st. Rep from * to last st. Tcbp around post of last st. Join with sl st to top of ch 2. Rep last rnd 4 times more. Fasten off at end of last rnd.
Sleeves (Optional):
Round 1: (RS). Join A with sl st to centre of underarm ch. Ch 3. 1 tc in each ch or tc around. Join with sl st to top of ch3. 31 tc.
Round 2: Ch 3. 1 tc in each tc around. Rep last rnd until the sleeve from underarm chain measures 10 cm.
Next Round: Ch 3. 1 tc in each of next 15 dc. Tc2tog. 1 tc in each tc to end of rnd. 30 tc.
Sleeve Ribbing:
Round 1: Ch 2 (counts as first st). *Tcbp around post of next st. Tcfp around post of next st. Rep from * to last st. Tcbp around post of last st. Join with sl st to top of ch 2. Rep last rnd 4 times more. Fasten off at end of last rnd.
Congratulations! You have finished your jumper. For a nice touch to finish off your jumper, how about going around the neck line and the bottom of your jumper in a contrasting colour? Just attach your yarn, chain 2, then double crochet into each stitch around and when you reach the starting chain 2, simply join into this with a slip stitch.
Happy Crocheting!
Lexie Loves Stitching 