Category: Crochet

Learning Amigurumi And A Crochet Update

Crochet / 6 years ago / RelentlesslyPurple

I’ve been learning Amigurumi over the last week or so! Having finished Eva’s rainbow unicorn crochet hoody, I decided to start off a few smaller projects. It had taken me almost two months as I kept losing motivation having to restart twice so I wanted to make something I could finish quickly.

To begin with, I started off crocheting a scarf for Izzy to match the scarf I made Eva last year. After the first 20 rows, I got a little bored so I began hunting something new to make. Tweeting about something new to make, Rebecca from MyGirlsAndMe responded suggesting a headband. I decided to give it a go and send it to her since I don’t wear them and wanted some feedback on my crochet too. I was quite pleased with how this Pin-Up Retro Headband turned out!

Crochet Pin-Up Retro Headband

Learning Amigurumi

I spotted a free pattern for a golden snitch over on Pinterest. With both girls loving Harry Potter I figured it was worth a try. With some stuffing left over from my Woodland Garland Kit and the similar colours, I got started. I was quite pleased to see the golden snitch work up so quickly and how easy the pattern was! It didn’t take that long at all before I had completed the first golden snitch. Feeling much more confident I managed to make the second one the next morning for Izzy.

Learning Amigurumi - Golden Snitch

Next, I decided to try out the Goldfish in a Jar Crochet Pattern. Missing the safety eyes, I decided to give it a try anyway and was pretty pleased with the result. I love how quickly Amigurumi works up!

Amigurumi Fish

The safety eyes will shortly be on order but I didn’t want to leave this fish unfinished! I crocheted some simple eyes to complete it.

Amigurumi Fish

I fully intend to experiment whilst learning amigurumi patterns. With cars, people, animals, flowers and more, it should keep me busy and help me to learn new stitches along the way!

Have you learnt Amigurumi before?

 

 

Crochet Rainbow Unicorn Hoody – Complete!

Crochet / 6 years ago / RelentlesslyPurple
Crochet Rainbow Unicorn Hoody

Finally, the crochet rainbow unicorn hoody is complete! My second crocheted cardigan so far. They are both pastel rainbow colours but this one is a unicorn hoody with an added belt. I created these using Drops Paris cotton and it is lovely and soft.

This has taken way longer than I had hoped. This is due to the fact I had to restart twice, once for sizing issues and again to remove a colour. I was so relieved to finally finish the main body when I realised I had to learn how to FPHDC & BPHDC (front pass and back pass half double crochet, the purple stitches).

With the first cardigan I could not figure this out and went with a plain edge but Eva insisted I gave it a go. I finally managed it, pleased to have learnt some new stitches. I need to work on my tension still but I’m pleased with the result.

Crocheted pastel rainbow hoody with pockets.

Eva decided she didn’t want an open cardigan or buttons! Instead, she wanted a belt. The pattern I used from Heart, Hook, Home didn’t have a belt so I made one and added loops to the hoody. I then made and added the horn, 2 ears & mane.

Crochet Rainbow Unicorn Hoody

Crochet Rainbow Unicorn Hoody

Eva was extremely pleased with how her crochet rainbow unicorn hoody turned out. Hopefully, if I make another I can improve the horn and ears but Eva is happy enough! It feels awesome to say I’ve completed a few big projects this year including my purple granny square blanket and these two hoodies.

I’m now back on the hunt for new projects having completed this. I’ve already made 2 golden snitches & started off a scarf. I have a few cushions I want to make covers for too. Do you know of any cool patterns you think I should try?

What do you think of our crochet rainbow unicorn hoody?

5 Products I Discovered & Love So Far This Year

Crochet / 6 years ago / RelentlesslyPurple

I’ve put together 5 products I discovered and LOVE so far this year. As a blogger, I often receive products to review & I am always on the hunt for new products too. No doubt readers are often left wondering if we still love the products we mention or review. Do we still use them later down the line or do we find a replacement? I have fallen in love with 5 products so far this year.

5 Products I Love

Skincare

Altruist Dermatologist SPF 50 Sunscreen

One thing I HATE about sunscreen is how sticky it is & how sweaty we all look covered in the stuff. Altruist is totally different though, it feels much more like a moisturiser and soaks into your skin so quickly. It also doesn’t stain clothing, a big win when you are rushing to sunscreen a child before school or topping up at the park! An affordable sunscreen option that is perfect for all the family. Having used this several times, including Saturday when it turned into a scorcher whilst we were at the local park, I can safely say I won’t be touching another sunscreen from now on!

Yarn

5 Products I love - Drops yarn

 

Drops Paris Yarn From Wool Warehouse

I decided I needed to step out of my crocheting comfort zone and try to make the girls some cardigans. Naturally, I asked Twitter for help & having a quick browse through suggestions Drops Paris Yarn seemed ideal. 100% Cotton, this gorgeous yarn is so soft and comes in amazing pastel shades, perfect for the paste rainbow look we wanted! I ordered one lot for the first hooded cardigan & instantly fell in love, as did the girls. I quickly ordered an even bigger stash of Drops Paris and am halfway through Eva’s cardigan. This will definitely be a yarn I’ll be buying again and again!

Crochet cardigan using Drops Paris

Food

Peter's Yard Charcoal & Rye Sourdough Crispbread
Credit: Peter’s Yard

Peters Yard Charcoal & Rye Sourdough Crispbread 

The Mr got to try out a fab Fathers Day Hamper from Prestige Hampers which included these amazingly moreish crispbreads. Since we finished the packet I have consistently moaned that I want more. They taste amazing with cheese & having now discovered where I can order them online, I can see them being a regular in the cupboard! Who doesn’t love cheese & a good cracker/crispbread!?

Mental Health

Happy Post

Happy Post Cards

The name says it all really, how can you not love something designed to give happiness? Happy postcards are sent to those that need something to brighten their day & now Katie has added printable Happy Post Cards too. Now everyone can spread a little happiness!

Tech


ZAGG ifrogz Little Rockerz Children's Volume Limiting On-Ear Headphones, Kitten & Princess

ZAGG ifrogz Little Rockerz Children’s Volume Limiting On-Ear Headphones, Kitten & Princess

When you have 2 children who own tablets, headphones are absolutely necessary. I am so done with hearing Peppa pig & Scooby Doo on repeat, cheesy pop songs & ‘prank’ videos drive me insane! When Izzy broke her super girls headphones I got the girls a set of these funky headphones each, Kitten for Izzy & Princess for Eva. They are amazing! Not only do they protect my ears but they protect theirs too with an 85 decibel sound limit. The second best thing about these? No, not that they are cute, they have buddy jacks! This enables the girls to plug their headphones into the other set and listen from one tablet. Perfect when Eva’s tablet dies sooner than Izzy’s and great for long journeys too.

These are the top 5, stand out products we’ve used & fallen in love with this year that I couldn’t recommend more!

Do you have 5 Products you have discovered & loved so far this year?

 

 

Crochet Project Ideas 2018

Crochet / 6 years ago / RelentlesslyPurple

I’m pinning crochet project ideas constantly lately! With some lovely new yarns the Mr has found I’ve been on the hunt for crochet projects. Crochet and blogging have been helping me stay sane lately and I am busying myself with them. So much has been going on lately that it’s been great to have projects to busy myself with.

Crochet project ideas

I feel quite cut off lately with no phone, I can’t chat online as much. Thankfully my surface does follow me around the flat but it’s really not the same. My brother pops in once a fortnight but otherwise, I barely see anyone so keeping busy is good. The best part is there are no deadlines, I just do as much as I feel I can when I can.

End Of A Project

Crochet Project Ideas

I am almost finished with my huge granny square blanket and know I will need something lined up to make next. Excuse the mess in this photo, it’s hard to get a picture as it is so large! Plus, I have kids… no further explanation necessary! I’ve somehow managed to crochet 150cm/180cm squared, hopefully, it won’t take too much longer! I really enjoy having a simple project to do even though it is huge and taken quite a while! I fear I will miss this project though so lining up a few more projects!

Crochet Project Ideas

I have been looking and pinning so many crochet project ideas that half the time I genuinely have no clue what to start next! I started hunting for some ideas ready for when the blanket is finally finished and found a few I’m tempted to try.

Crochet Socks

Crochet Project Ideas

I have this gorgeous yarn cake in blue that I think will make up some lovely socks. I’ve never attempted crocheting socks before so I am a bit nervous. It could solve my cold feed issues though and Heather has pointed me in the direction of some great tutorials. Knowing I have the #HGDCMakersMoment chat on a Wednesday also gives me a boost to find projects. Chatting to other makers motivates me to finish and find new projects.

Cocoon Cardigan

Aran Yarn

With the Burgandy Aran yarn, I am hoping to start a granny square cocoon cardigan. There are some lovely patterns out there but this one from Spoons & Hooks looks fab. She recommends using 1000-1250 yards of yarn for this granny square cocoon cardigan. I currently have 850 yards of Burgandy Aran Yarn. I figured since I need a size 6-8 I will give it a go and see if I have enough yarn.  At worst I can make it for Eva instead although I may keep an eye out for Aldi too just to make sure though!

 

Crochet Wishlist On Amazon 2018

Crochet / 6 years ago / RelentlesslyPurple

My Crochet wishlist on Amazon* is growing for 2018 even though I managed to grab a few goodies already this year! I managed to tick off a few tools like stitch markers, a range of hooks and stitch counters. My wool/yarn collection is growing even more too after the Mr bought me some Aran yarn & a yarn cake.

Crochet Wishlist On Amazon 2018

I mentioned last year in My Ever-Growing Yarn Wishlist several Carron Cakes I had my eye on and I have been keeping an eye out for sales with no luck. The Mr found a So Crafty Yarn cake in Aldi this week though and grabbed the last one knowing I love the different yarn cakes available.

As you can see the Mr also got me a few other goodies, helping me create an even more comfortable, calming, crochet corner!

Crochet Wishlist

This little haul made me really smile and now I look forward to resting when I need to instead of feeling guilty. Of course, this has also spurred me on to hunt for even more gorgeous crochet goodies to busy myself with when I need to rest. From crochet tools, yarns and more my wishlist right now is quite extensive!

Crochet Tools

Any crocheter will need a lovely pair of scissors to snip yarn at times, why not a lovely vintage pair?

Yarn/Wool

Yes, I know, I haven’t even bought the ones on my last wish list… yet! But here are a few more I am currently in love with anyway including this huge yarn cake that would be perfect for using on a project for Eva.

I also really love this yarn, it would be great for a scarf tying in my favourite colours.

 

This stunning collection has some fab shades including purple haze which is stunning, as is ocean but this one, in particular, keeps catching my eye. It would make a lovely cardigan!

This gorgeous sock yarn is also on my crochet wish list this year as I am determined to crochet a pair of socks!

Mugs & Coasters

Every crocheter needs a mug & coaster, even with my obsessive purple mug collecting I have yet to buy a related mug or coaster! Shocking! Amazon has some quite amusing mugs like this one below. It made me giggle as last year crocheting helped me travel without feeling overly anxious.

This mug is so true, crocheting helps me unwind and really is my happy place! Of course, if you get the mug you have too, especially being purple

That also makes this next mug on my crochet wishlist pretty true too. I have to admit it has helped me keep calm in situations where I normally struggle haha!

Clothing

Anyone that follows me on tweeter will regularly see me complain I am cold so of course a jumper or hoody had to be included. I am lacking after a clear out after all…


I love both of these hoodies, I just wish they came in purple!

Stationary

As someone with a slight stationary obsession, of course, I had to find a notebook to note down any stitches or perhaps if I ever learn to write a pattern. I love this one and is top of my stationary crochet wishlist.

 

Burnished Chaos

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New Crochet Bag & My Current WIP

Crochet / 6 years ago / RelentlesslyPurple

I’m showing off my new crochet bag from Bonfire Cherry and my current WIP since it has been a little while. I started on a rather large granny square blanket in sparkly purple, blue and silver. The blanket will end up big enough to cover our super king size bed which will also cover all of our corner sofa for film days too!

Purple Granny Square Blanket

My Current WIP

I’ve only managed to squeeze in a row here and there over the last few months alongside a small toy hammock. (I need to make another 3 of those too!) I am pleased with my slow progress and love how warm it is whilst I work on it.

As always I have had a few incidents where the girls knock my WIP all over the floor which annoys me greatly! I finally decided it had been far too long since I spotted the Wool print bags from Bonfire Cherry and asked him about them. Unfortunately he stopped selling these but luckily for me he had one spare so I finally got my hands on a new crochet bag!

New Crochet Bag

New Crochet Bag – Wool Print Design

My new crochet bag arrived beautifully wrapped and fits my current WIP with plenty of growing room. Keeping my WIP & hook together in one place at all times is so much easier. I am relieved and in love with the gorgeous Wool Print design from Bonfire Cherry.

I have been joining in with the #HGDCMakersMoment the last 2 weeks, reminding me how much I enjoy crochet. Connecting with other crocheters and crafters is always so inspiring. Of course last week I joined in showing off my gorgeous new crochet bag which everyone loved. It made me smile even if I was dealing with a projectile vomiter repeatedly appearing in the hallway. I managed to join in the conversation a little at least.

After I finish my blanket and 3 more toy hammocks, I am determined to make myself a cardigan! Heather who runs #HGDCMakersMoment found me some gorgeous designs so I just need to find the perfect wool. My crochet confidence has definitely gone up over the last year. Now I can’t wait to learn more tips and tricks. I would love to make us all cosy socks and jumpers for cold winters!

What’s on your hook at the moment?

My Ever-growing Yarn Wish List

Crochet / 7 years ago / RelentlesslyPurple

I have an ever-growing Yarn wish list right now. Whilst I do have 2 projects on the go right now, a granny square blanket for myself and one for my brothers cat Mia. I’m still using up all my sparkly yarn but I’ve been eyeing up some lovely new colours and brands I’ve discovered.

I still consider myself a newbie when it comes to crochet and I openly admit to being clueless when it comes to different yarns but some are just sooo lovely! I love self patterning yarns, anything purple, grey or super soft. The girls regularly point out yarns they like and want used on a project too but this list is just for me.

My Yarn Wish list

 

Caron Cakes

Anyone who loves to crochet or knit has no doubt heard of Caron cakes, self-patterning yarns that come in a glorious array of colours. These are fantastic for a range of projects and look especially lovely when used for shawls. Here are my favourite 4 Caron Cakes.

Yarn wish list- Bumbleberry caron cake

Bumbleberry

I love the gorgeous combination of purples in this Bumbleberry Self Striping Aran Yarn. I could use this on so many projects for myself!

lilac frosting caron cake

Lilac Frosting

The Lilac frosting would make a lovely scarf for winter with just a hint of lilac throughout. I usually avoid lighter colours but I do love the way this Caron cake turns out.

 

Mixed Berry Caron Cake

Mixed Berry

I’ve had my eye on this gorgeous Mixed Berry Caron cake since I first discovered them. I think this would be perfect for a project for Eva. Maybe a nice cardigan if I can work out how to crochet one!

Faerie cake caron cake

Faerie Cake

The last yarn on my Caron cake wishlist is this gorgeous Faerie Cake. I just love the colours in this, I’ve no idea what I would use it for but I definitely need it in my yarn stash asap.

 

purple fizz

Purple Fizz

Stylecraft Wondersoft DK Merry-go-Round in Purple Fizz is another self-patterning wool which I would love to make some cushions out of. I want to funk up my sofa soon and have a few different cushion cover ideas.

candy

Candy

King Cole Flash DK Knitting yarn in Candy is gorgeous. I would love to make some cushions for the girls room. Ok I know I said this list is for me but I couldn’t help but slip one in for the girls too!

What’s on your Yarn wish list right now? Which of the above yarns is your favourite?

Lace Shell Edged Shawl Crochet Project – Complete

Crafts / 7 years ago / RelentlesslyPurple

I’ve been working on a Lace Shell Edged Shawl since my birthday after some good friends spoilt me with crochet supplies! I received a handy box full of purple sparkly wool, hooks, a magazine & beginners crochet guide. I was over the moon and still am!

A box of treats!

Crochet goodies

 

Anyone that knows me will know I absolutely love crochet! I taught myself slowly over the last few year after finding knitting difficult with 2 children running around. Crochet is much easier to pick up & put down when I have spare time. My confidence has grown loads and I’ve made some lovely items that I’m quite proud of. I’ve crocheted several items now including bags, a flower heart wreath, dolls clothes, blankets for Eva and Izzy, scarves and more! I really enjoy crochet, it helps with my anxiety & depression too so this was the perfect birthday present!

I love seeing the girls with their blankets I made for them 😍

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Lace Shell Edged Shawl

With plenty of purple wool, I sat and looked through the magazines to find myself a nice project. I found a pattern for a gorgeous lace edged shawl so I instantly got to work on a purple one for myself! The crochet beginners guide has a lovely pattern which I decided to adapt slightly using a different sized hook. I won’t deny I only changed the pattern so I could use my lovely new 3mm purple hook instead of a 5mm one!

Lace shell edged Shawl

Using the Crochet Beginners guide I finally got the hang of a magic ring which will be useful in so many projects. I’ve also recently taught myself how to do a standing crochet stitch, great for hiding any mistakes haha!

My lace shell edged shawl grew quite quickly considering the hook size difference. The shawl took longer than planned but I’m still pleased I managed it in a month! We’ve had a busy few weeks, a surprise trip to Southend pier, Izzy being poorly and Eva going back to school . Somehow I have still managed to sneak in a few rows here and there.

Finally finished!

The design itself is quite simple but it has a lace shell edging which is nice and a little different to the shell edging on Izzy’s crochet blanket I recently made her. I madea few mistakes so had to frog several rows throughout but I eventually got there!

My shawl is finally finished! Still need to wash and block it but YAY!

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One of the magazines came with a shawl pin to use too. Now I’ve learnt more stitches and tricks my ‘to make’ list is growing quickly! With 5 more balls of purple to use I’m on the hunt for another little project haha!

What do you think of the shawl? What would you make if you had plenty of wool to use?