Month: December 2013

The Cheat’s Guide to Christmas Crochet Bunting

Back in August, you may remember, I did some crochet granny bunting (well just a bit). I liked it so much, I wondered if I would be able to find a Christmas version. I did – I found this  great little Crochet Granny Christmas Tree over at the fabulous Royal Sisters Blog. It’s nice and simple with a great step-by-step photo tutorial to follow.

Just what I was looking for – although it needed a little something to finish to off….

That’s more like it.
As ever, the madness of of the run-up to Christmas means that there’s never enough time for me to crochet up a stack of these. I will at some point, but in the meantime I did exactly as I did with the last lot of crochet bunting. Yes, you guessed it – another printable. Another little crochet trompe l’oeil.
It works really well…. and it means that you can have Christmas Crochet Bunting even if you’ve never crocheted in your life. Once again it’s available as a free download for thredHED Facebook page fans. Get it HERE.  As with the previous bunting, make sure you print it on a good  quality paper and a high quality media setting….or…. you could use iron-on transfer paper, even printable cloth…. for crochet-print fabric bunting. 
Happy Decorating.

Yarn Christmas Wreath, Part 2….Time to Embellish

Okay, time’s pressing on. The lights are up and our high street is positively twinkling. Trees are stacked outside the shops, and one by one our windows are beginning to light up. Your Yarn Wreath is made and now it’s time for the best bit – embellishing. 
There are lots of ways you can do this – it doesn’t even have to be knit or crochet, although it’s nice to continues the theme. I’ve used my own pattens for my wreath, but, sadly due to my other commitments haven’t yet written patterns (perhaps that’s something for next christmas). There are, however, loads of great patterns out there, free and to buy, for little christmas flowers, leaves etc…..or you can even but them on Etsy or Folksy if you’re a bit pushed for time. 
 Here are some of my favourite, most realistic, free patterns for fabulous knit and crochet Christmas decorations. 

Mistletoe (crochet)
This one’s my favourite. It’s very simple and quick to make…and it’s so effective. Would also look great as a garland. You can get it over at the blog Marie’s Making
Holly (crochet)
Here’s a lovely, lovely, and very simple holly leaf. There’s a great step-by-step photo tutorial with this one, from everyone’s favourite Attic 24
Holly (knitted)
Here’s another Holly option if you prefer to knit. Looks great doesn’t it. You can get it here at  the Cvetulka blog
Pinecone (crochet)
I love this one. It’s a very clever idea – and much easier it looks. Here it is from Planet M Files
Poinsettia (crochet)
Last but not least, a beautiful crochet poinsettia. I think it looks fab. Find the Pattern here at Hobbycraft – Christmas Craft Ideas
I think that’s enough to be going on with, don’t you. 
Don’t forget, it’s important to give thanks to these bloggers for sharing their great patterns, and giving something very precious – their time – for free. Writing patterns is not easy, I know. It takes a lot of knowledge, time and concentration to be clear and accurate.….so a big ‘Thanks’ guys, and all the very best to you.