Baby Bonnet Pattern

February 20, 2019February 23, 20191 Comment

Hello Everyone,

This baby bonnet pattern is part of my baby set and is suitable for intermediate beginners. For this pattern you will need –

4mm Crochet Hook
DK Cotton Yarn (I used Peter Pan Baby Cotton)

Find the video here, the written pattern is below –

This pattern in written in UK Terms

Abbreviations

st/sts – Stitches
ch – chain
dc – double crochet
htc – half treble crochet
tc – treble crochet
ss – slip stitch

Start by making a magic circle or ch 4 and ss into the 1st ch

Round 1 – ch 1, work 10 tc into the magic circle, ss to join (10 st).

Round 2 – ch1, work 2tc into each stitch, ss to join (20 st).

Round 3 – ch1, work 2tc into the first st and 1 tc into the next. Repeat until the end. Ss to join (30 st).

Round 4 – ch1, work 2tc into the first st and 1 tc into the next 2 st. Repeat until the end. Ss to join (40 st).

Round 5 – ch1, work 2tc into the first st and 1 tc into the next 3 st. Repeat until the end. Ss to join (50 st).

Round 6 – ch1, work 1 tc into each st (50st).

Round 7 – ch1, 1htc, *skip 2 st, work 2tc, ch3, ss all into the same stitch*. Repeat *to* 16 times. 1htc into the last st. Turn (50 st)

Round 8 – ch1, 1htc, * work 2tc around the ch3 from the previous round, ch3, ss into the 3rd ch from the previous*. Repeat *to* 16 times. 1htc into the last st. Turn (50 st)

Round 9 – 17 – Repeat round 8. Fasten off and secure your yarn.

Strap

Chain 42 then join with a slip stitch to the main part of the bonnet. Work dc’s evenly around the bottom edge of the bonnet. When you reach the opposite edge, ch42, turn, work 1dc into each chain, along the bottom edge of the bonnet and into each of the 42 chains on the opposite side. Fasten off and sew in all your ends.

Congratulations, you have made yourself a baby bonnet!

Happy Crocheting!

The Magic Knot

October 21, 2018Leave a comment

Hello Everyone!

Have you ever struggled to attach new yarn or wondered how to change colours?? Well have no fear, the magic knot is here to help you! It is so easy and simple and you will be changing colours in no time! Have a watch of the video below to see how its done!

I love to see your makes so don’t forget to tag me on Instagram – @Lexie_Loves_Stitching

Take care and happy crocheting!

Sew a Book Sleeve

October 11, 2018Leave a comment

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!

Easy Crochet Friendship Bracelet

October 3, 2018Leave a comment

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!

No Fuss Fish Pattern

August 1, 2018July 31, 20181 Comment

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 –

2 contrasting colours of DK Yarn (I used cotton DK but acrylic is fine)
A 3mm Crochet Hook
Toy Stuffing (or yarn scraps)
Safety Eyes or black yarn
A stitch marker
A darning needle
Scissors

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

Easy Crochet Market Bag

July 25, 20184 Comments

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 –

3mm hook
100g skein of Wendy Supreme Cotton

HANDY TIPS!

This pattern is written in UK terms.
The 3ch at the beginning of the first 4 rounds count as a UK tr (US dc).
If you have loose tension, try downsizing to a 2.5mm hook.
Do not turn your work when making the main body of the bag.

PATTERN:

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.

HANDLE – Chain 8

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!!

The Florence Dress

May 28, 2018Leave a comment

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 –

DK Yarn in your choice of colour. I used Wendy Supreme Cotton in shade 1975
Fabric to match or compliment your yarn
Thread that matches your yarn
4mm Crochet hook
Scissors
A yarn needle to sew your ends in.

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 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

How to Start Crocheting

April 15, 2018April 15, 2018Leave a comment

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.. These hooks are brilliant for beginners as they are cheap and widely available. If you have any issues with grip, such as arthritis I would highly recommend a silicone handled hook such as the Clover 4 mm Amour Crochet Hook. These are my favourite hooks in the whole world and are defiantly worth spending that little bit extra on. 4mm is the size that I would recommend starting out with. It is the hook size that I use the most and is the size recommended for most Double Knit (or DK) yarns.

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 or Spearmint. Both of these are DK yarns.

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 Markers. These are defiantly the best stitch markers and will be your best friend for straight edges!

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!

Easy Beginners Crochet Baby Jumper

April 9, 2018April 5, 20235 Comments

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 (size 12 – 18 months can be found in google docs for free using this link – 12- 18 month pattern). If you would like the pattern in another 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 –

A 4mm Crochet Hook
DK (Double knit) Yarn, I have used Robin DK Shade Pale Rose (111)
Scissors
Darning Needle (for those pesky ends!)
Tape measure
A cup of tea and lots cake to keep you going

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 2 or 3 at the beginning of a round counts as a stitch.

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 8^thchain, we are going to do a V stitch – 1 tc. Ch 1. 1 tc (all in that same 8^thchain). 1 tc in each of next 10 chains. V-st in next ch. 1 tc in each of next 16 ch. V-st in next ch. 1 tc in each of next 10 ch. V-st in next ch. 1 tc in each of last 8 ch. Join with sl st to top of ch 3.

Rounds 2 – 9: Ch 3. *1 tc in each tc to ch-1 sp of next V-st. V-st in ch-1 sp of next V-st. Rep from * 3 times more. 1 tc in each tc to end of rnd. Join. 124 tc and 4 ch-1 sps at end of 9th rnd.

Dividing the Jumper Sleeves and Body:

Round 1: Ch 3. 1 tc in each of next 16 tc. 1 c in ch-1 sp of next V-st. Ch 3 for underarm. Skip next 28 tc. 1 tc in ch-1 sp of next V-st. 1 tc in each of next 34 tc. 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 17 tc. 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 yarn 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. Round 3: Ch 3. 1 tc in each of next 15 tc. 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!

Happy Easter!

April 1, 2018March 31, 20182 Comments

Hello Everybody!

Sorry that it has been so long since my last blog post. I have been really busy on placement and also I have some not so good news. A few weeks ago I found a lump on my breast. I made an appointment to see my GP who then sent me to Breast Clinic at hospital. I saw a lovely consultant who assured me that he was sure the lump was 99.9% “nothing” but thought he would do a biopsy to be sure. Anyway, long story short, I am booked in to have surgery on Friday April 13th (what a date!) to have the tumour removed. It was a huge shock BUT I CAN AND WILL get through this. Some days I do feel really angry and ask why me but I know that there are people in this world that are going through things that are a gazillion times worse that what I am going through. I have the most amazing bunch of friends and family and I am in no way a quitter.

In happier news (!), I have been busy with my crochet hook and sewing machine! I completed a beautiful cardigan from the book Geek Chic Crochet by Nicki Trench using Wendy 4 ply in a beautiful Mint Colour. I also made a cute toddler kitty jumper and up cycled a pair of old jeans that were destined for the bin into a little girls pinafore!