Simply Crochet 155 - 2024 UK
Simply Crochet 155 - 2024 UK
Simply Crochet 155 - 2024 UK
patterns
for you!
me, my elf
and I!
PATTERNS IDEAS YARN INSPIRATION TECHNIQUES ISSUE ONE HUNDRED & FIFTY FIVE
Top to toe
Cosy makes to start now!
Finger
puppet
poppets
Perfect for stocking
fillers
MERRY
MONOCHROME
ChrIsTmas
TreNd
m a s p a t terns ga lore!
+ C h r ist
■ BOBBLE JUMPER ■ BLANKET CAL ■ BABY BASKETS ■ SANTA MOTIF ■ & MUCH MORE
C
CONTENTS
26
FesTive
Fair Isle
Cool Yule
ColLeCton
P14
56
Cover
star!
31 50
36
41
53
GOOD READS HOW TO…
09 HOOKED 34 SUBSCRIBE 58
48 PROFILE: CAIT MCCORMACK
60 FEATURE: WRAP UP CHRISTMAS!
Never miss an issue!
68 YARN REVIEWS LittlE
Start those crochet gifts today
70 SHOW US YOURS!
Try out super sock yarns
72 CROCHET UNRAVELLED
BaskeT
82 FAVE FOLLOW Getting turning chains right
What’s new on social 75 THE GUIDE
Essential step-by-steps for you
Fun carol
singer finger
puppets!
45
Fun and festivities
Explore our great gifts to make for Christmas! The Editor Sara Huntington
Creative Lead Claire Watkins
kids will love the elf on page 31, and grown-ups will Creative Designer Parvin Sepehr
be all smiles with our gorgeous Christmas jumper on Technical Editor Paula Green
Cover Photography Steve Sayers
page 26. For smaller projects, you’ll be in the pink Photography Dave Caudery, Steve Sayers
with a hat and shawl set on page 50, and we even Jesse Wild
have socks on page 36. If you’d like a new look for AdvErTisInG
home, our stylish Christmas décor collection on page Call 0117 300 8206
Commercial Brand Lead
14 is for you – we’re loving the impala wall art. Rachael Hawkins
And don’t miss our fab yarn pack gift when you
subscribe!* Share your makes on Instagram tagged MarKeTing & SubScRipTions
Senior Direct Marketing Executive Kate Jones
#sctreblemaker, or on our Facebook group, Simply Head of Loyalty, CRM & Engagement Rosa Sherwood
Crochet SCtreblemakers. Have a merry making time! Head of Acquisitions Clive Evans-Morris
CirCuLatIon
Head of Newstrade Marketing Martin Hoskins
Newstrade Marketing Manager Janine Smith
ConTrIbuTors
ProDuCtiOn
Production Coordinator Derrick Andrews
Production Manager Rose Griffiths
Group Production Manager Louisa Molter
Our superstar designers this issue... Production Director Sarah Powell
BuyIng Team
Karen Flannigan
LicEnSing
Director of International Licensing & Syndication Tim Hudson
PubLiShiNg
Head of Content Gail Shortland
Publishing Director Liz Taylor
CEO Andy Marshall
“I'm happiest with my hook and “Crochet is not only my job, it 's SubScRipTions
a basket of colours!” myverycreative
therapeutic”
ourlet!” Call 03330 162 146 or subscribe online at
www.ourmediashop.com
The copyright in the patterns in this magazine are owned by or licensed to Our Media Ltd and are for readers’ personal use
only. Please do not share them online (even for free) or copy them multiple times without our permission. Where selling crafts
* Offer is UK only; see page 34
based on these patterns is permitted (usually only to raise funds for charity), we’ll say so on the page. All toys sold in the UK
must meet the requirements set out in the Toy (Safety) Regulations 2011, with proof in the form of a CE Mark. You must take
all necessary steps to comply with this important legislation. For more information, see gov.uk/ce-marking.
OTHER CONTRIBUTORS
Gordana Adamceska-Halson, Lily Chin, Clare Cooper, Lucy Croft, Judy Darley, Our Media Limited (company number 05715415) is registered in England and Wales. The registered office of Our Media
Limited is at Eagle House, Colston Avenue, Bristol, BS1 4ST All information contained in this magazine is for information only
Jane Howarth, Karen Hubbard, Maria Jęczmyk, Emma Leith, Vanessa Mooncie, and is, as far as we are aware, correct at the time of going to press. Our Media Limited cannot accept any responsibility for
errors or inaccuracies in such information. Readers are advised to contact manufacturers and retailers directly with regard
Helen Smith, Becky Skuse, Laura Strutt, Catherine Venner, Cassie Ward to the price of products/services referred to in this magazine. If you submit unsolicited material to us, you automatically
grant Our Media Limited a licence to publish your submission in whole or in part in all editions of the magazine, including
licensed editions worldwide and in any physical or digital format throughout the world. Any material you submit is sent
at your risk. Although every care is taken, neither Our Media Limited nor its employees agents or subcontractors shall be
liable for loss or damage.
WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET
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VINTAGE LACE
CROCHETED
CARDIGAN
BY DEBORAH NEWTON
FREE PATTERN FW328
www.cascadeyarns.com
Ideas Inspiration Accessories Websites Events Stuff
WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET 9
NEW FOR
NOVEMBER
WLook out for
Gudrun Johnston’s
Christmas collection,
out 19 November.
Handicrafts are key;
it’s inspired by trad
Norwegian rose
painting, Indian
block print and
Greek embroidery,
with a vibrant
palette of blues and
reds. Visit www.
gudrunsjoden.com
A FESTIVE FEAST
for the kids You may remember that footballer Marcus
Rashford partnered with charity FareShare
Greater Manchester during the early days of the
Hannah Cross of HanJan Crochet has pandemic (find out more at www.faresharegm.
released a new collection of garments for co.uk). Part of the FareShare UK network, each
little ones just in time for Christmas. The year the charity rescues 1,000s of tons of food
Franny Granny Kids Collection includes four waste, redistributing it to over 300 food banks,
charities and community groups. FareShare
designs to fit newborns to 10 years: a Granny Marketing Lead and Making Stitches podcaster
Stitch Cardigan, Sweater, Dress and Hoodie. Lindsay Weston has designed a wreath pattern
Flexible designs allow for colour changes, based on a Christmas dinner, and is selling it to
adjustable sleeves, lengths and more. All raise funds for the charity. She says, “Sticking
planned for DK weight yarn, they come with with the food theme, I designed a wreath based
on a Christmas dinner. Every £5 donated
a video tutorial. The pattern is in US terms provides food for a person for a week, so money
with a conversion chart if you prefer UK from the pattern will have a big impact”. Visit the
terms. Visit www.hanjancrochet.com MakingStitchesShop on Etsy to buy the pattern.
l s
Feeling fine
Hobbii’s Twisted Love is a blend of 87% cotton, 13% polyester
designed for a 2.5mm hook. Available in eight variegated
colourways, it can be used on its own or combined with other
yarns. It’s £4.95 per 50g/200m ball from www.hobbii.co.uk
An anGel oN higH
Make Me Roar are a husband-and-wife team; Kate says she’s a
crochet and amigurumi addict, while Martin is the graphic design
whizz! This is Kate’s Angel & Star Tree Topper amigurumi pattern.
Made in Scheepjes Catona with Ricorumi Gold Lamé, download the
digital pattern for £4.50, or order an A5 printed book for £8.99 and
get a free digital version. Patterns are written in both UK and US
crochet terms, so you can choose which you prefer. Both patterns
(and more) are available through www.makemeroar.co.uk
10 WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET
HOOKED
c c s i il in
5 FA FIN S
HIDING FLOATS OF
hook small enough to insert into the
shank-hole of the button and insert. Get to a
Christmas cosies
YARN IN STRIPES stitch where you want a button. In this sample,
I’m working double crochet. Pick up a loop as Keep your cinnamon latte
I’m Lily, and I’ve been teaching you normally would. Transfer the picked-up warm with festive mug fun
yarncrafts internationally loop onto the smaller hook that has the
since 1989. I was named to the Crochet Hall button on it. See photos 1-3.
of Fame in 2015 and have been involved Push the button down until the picked-up
in some aspect of the fashion industry loop goes through the hole of the shank
since age 13, designing for magazines and button. Replace the picked-up loop back onto
yarn companies since 1982 and working the regular hook where the other loop is, as in
for designers such as Ralph Lauren and photo 5. Here, the button is facing the back
Diane von Fürstenberg. I was officially side of the work but you can rotate the button
named ‘fastest crocheter in the world’ to be forward-facing. It depends on which is
in a 2002 international competition and the right side or ‘public side’ of the work or
have authored books on knitting and where you want the button to appear.
crochet since 1999. I’ve made hundreds
of appearances on television and in print
Photo 7 shows the button to the front side of
the work. Yarn over the hook and complete
TOOTHSOME TWOSOME
1
media and am on the season 13 and 14 cast the stitch as normal. For treble crochet, you This pair from Toys by Helga will make a fun
of PBS’ Knit and Crochet Now. But most of all, have a choice of which portion you want the stocking filler for a perfect couple. You’ll need
I’m proud of my teaching skills. Come learn button on – the lower portion with 3 loops on to combine a little knitting with your crochet to
something new with me! the hook or the upper portion with 2 loops on make them, but why not? Have double the fun.
the hook. Regardless, you’ll never have to sew Download the pattern on Etsy for £3.78.
2
I really, really hate to sew on buttons. I crochet on a button ever again.
them on instead! Here’s how. I use only SHANK For more from Lily, follow her on Facebook at ALL TREED UP
buttons, not the type with holes. Get a crochet Lily M Chin, on Instagram at @lilymchin and on HCCrochets says
this pattern will
suit beginners - it
01 02 03 04 only needs dc (US
sc) stitches and a
little bit of sewing.
It even adjusts to
fit your reusable
mug. Etsy, £2.87
CUT IT OUT
These three cute
designs from
05 06 07 08 HookedbyAngel
come with genius
templates to print
off to look extra
professional. Get
the set on Etsy,
£3.82. So clever!
4 HATS OFF
Have you run out of
time? Let Sophia
Crochet community from PleasantThings
Store help. Buy a cute
Santa cosy with a
7–10 Nov The Knitting & Stitching Show 21–24 Nov The Knitting & Stitching Show TWINKLE TWINKLE
from £15, TEC, Belfast from £18, HCC, Harrogate You’ll need some
www.theknittingandstitchingshow.com www.theknittingandstitchingshow.com 4ply and toy filling to
whip up these fun
little characters from
8–10 Nov Yorkshire Yarn Festival 30 Nov Learn to Punch Needle
FunnyRabbitToys.
from £14.25, Sandburn Hall, York from £68, Betchworth, Surrey
Use up those beads
www.yorkshireyarnfest.com www.gilliangladrag.co.uk you’ve been keeping
for a special occasion!
On Etsy for £7.66. 5
SOFT TOUCH
WIf you need some
new hooks or want
to treat a friend,
Clover have the
answer. Soft Touch
hooks are light,
ergonomic, and
designed for comfort.
Their cushioning will
ease any strain on
your hands. Available
in 2-6mm sizes,
rrp £4.30-£4.65
depending on size.
turn it on
Blackburn-based crochet teacher and artist
Rachael Mills was amazed to discover that her
commission by artist Jasleen Kaur to make a
giant doily is part of an artwork nominated
TyiNg up LooSe Ends
King Cole donates to the Loose Ends project
for the Turner Prize. On display at London’s (www.looseends.org) for every ball of King
Tate Britain (www.tate.org.uk), the doily Cole Cottagespun Chunky you buy. The
project aims to ease grief, create community
covers several items, including a sports car. It and inspire generosity by matching
took months to produce, and Rachael can’t volunteers with items that are
wait to see the display. She says, “When I heard, unfinished due to disability or
I thought the nomination was a practical joke. death. These handmade items
It’s received international attention, and I still are easily lost or thrown out,
but Loose Ends means that the
can’t believe that work I made at home is on original intention of the maker
display in a world-famous gallery”. Rachael is is fulfilled. It’s a great reason for
on Facebook at Crochetcrazycreations. you to buy this roving yarn!
the ChrIsTmas StoRy What are you known for? We have regular
knit ‘n’ natter social groups and occasional
Bring the story of Christmas to life with your workshops, and we’re happy to help and advise
very own crocheted Nativity scene. All the on various crafts.
main characters are here in this pattern to Your most popular products? Stylecraft
help recreate the classic Bible story – Mary Special, WYS Signature 4ply, and Rico PomPon.
and Joseph, baby Jesus in his manger, the What support do you offer? Postal delivery, free
shepherds, Three Wise Men, and the angel local delivery, video calls for browsing, free patterns!
Gabriel, accompanied by a donkey and a 6 Falconers Lane, Nairn IV12 4DS
sheep. Hook up these little figures in DK yarn Telephone: 01667 452423 10am–5.30pm Mon-Sat
with a 3.5mm hook, and they’ll be yours to Email: [email protected]
treasure for many years to come. Visit our Find them on Instagram @nairnwoolshop and
Etsy pattern store: https://simplypatternpdfs. Facebook at Nairn Wool Shop
etsy.com/listing/1704422085
12 WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET
Your new recycled
yarn choice
For all our latest patterns & yarns visit www.stylecraft-yarns.co.uk For your nearest stockist telephone 01484 848435
BLISS BLANKET
Take a break from the preparations (or
the festivities!) and snuggle up under a
graphic throw with golden tassels. Mosaic
crochet is having a moment right now.
MERRY MONOCHROME
WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET 15
MERRY MONOCHROME
GRAPHIC GARLAND
Glow up a dull corner with a touch of
glitz and glamour. We’ve given bunting
a Yuletide twist with metallic stars and
tassels. Can you stop at just one string?
16 WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET
STARRY SNOWFLAKE
Catching snowflakes is a pastime to
cherish. Our cushion will add class to your
sofa, with a surface crochet snowflake and
a gorgeous gold star as its crowning glory.
WREATHED IN SMILES
Now here’s a holly hanging to make any
minimalist’s heart sing. Make as many or
as few classy embroidered holly leaves as
you like, we’re not here to judge.
MERRY MONOCHROME
GOLDEN GIFTS
Some lucky person could find this little
sack full of presents from Santa sitting
at the end of their bed on Christmas
morning. Quite a sight to behold.
WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET 19
MERRY MONOCHROME
need to refer to when working the mosaic Round 1 (RS) Ch1, 1dc in each st to last st on
sections. Read each row twice, once from right top, (1dc, ch2, 1dc) in last st (corner made),
to left for the RS row and once from left to rotate work 90 degrees, (1dc in next 3
right for the WS row. Change colour at the end row-ends, skip next row-end) rep to end of
of WS row. If a second colour appears on the long side, (1dc, ch2, 1dc) in first st on bottom
row, you will need to skip the number of sts edge, 1dc in each st to last st on bottom edge,
shown in that colour and work a ch for each (1dc, ch2, 1dc) in last st, rotate work 90 degrees,
skipped st plus 1. For example, if you skip 2 sts (1dc in next 3 row ends, skip next row end) rep
you will make a ch3. On the next row using to end of long side, (1dc, ch2) in same st as first
that colour you will work an mtr into each dc, ss to first dc, turn.
skipped st. The first few rows of the Chart have Round 2 (WS) Ch1, *(1dc, ch2, 1dc) in ch-2 sp,
been written out to guide you. 1dc in each st to next ch-2 sp; rep from * around
On the mosaic sections, rather than fastening to end, ss to first dc.
off, carry the unused strands up the side of Fasten off and weave in ends.
your work ready to use again when directed.
You can work over the carried strands when TASSELS (MAKE 16)
making the Border. Using Yarn C, wrap yarn 100 times around a
piece of card approx 12cm in length.
MOSAIC BLANKET Insert a 30cm length of Yarn C under all loops at
Using Yarn A, ch171. top, knot securely in middle to fasten. Cut
Row 1 (RS) Dc in bl of second ch from hook, dc through all loops along bottom edge to
in bl of each ch to end, turn. [170 sts] remove from cardboard. Wrap a 30cm piece of
Rows 2-4 Ch1 (does not count as st yarn around top of tassel, approx 3cm from top.
throughout), dc in each st to end, turn. Attach 8 Tassels evenly across each short edge.
Change to Yarn B. Trim Tassel to desired length.
bliss blanket When working from the Chart, work sts 1-72,
then work the rep section twice before working
What’s better than a crochet blanket? A
belter of a graphic blanket from mosaic
crochet supremo Esme Crick, that’s what
the final 2 sts.
Row 5 (RS) Ch1, 1dc, ch2, skip 1 st, 4dc, *ch3,
skip 2 sts, 4dc; rep from * to last 2 sts, ch2, skip 1
impala wall art head
No luxe cottage setting is complete without
QYarn And Colors Must-Have (100% cotton; st, 1dc, turn. some decorative wall art. Hook up Vanessa
50g/125m) , 10 balls of Yarn A Black (100 ), Row 6 Ch1, 1dc, ch2, skip ch-2 sp, 4dc, *ch3, skip Mooncie’s impala, her latest masterpiece
8 balls of Yarn B White (001) ch-3 sp, 4dc; rep from * to last ch-2 sp, ch2, skip QYarn and Colors Must-Have 4ply (100%
QYarn And Colors Glamour (100% polyester; ch-2 sp, 1dc, turn. cotton, 50g/125m), 2 balls of Yarn A Black
20g/158m), 5 balls of Yarn C Gold (089) Change to Yarn A. (100), 1 ball of Yarn B White (001)
QA 4mm (US G/6) hook Row 7 Ch1, 1dc, 1mtr, (2dc, ch3, skip 2 sts, 2mtr) QYarn and Colors Glamour (100% polyester,
QCardboard, 12cm long twice, ch3, skip 2 sts, 2dc, 2mtr, ch3, skip 2 sts, 20g/158m), 1 ball of Yarn C Gold (089)
2dc, *(2mtr, 2dc, ch3, skip 2 sts) twice, (2mtr, QA 2mm (US B/1) hook
TENSION ch3, skip 2 sts, 2dc) twice; rep from * to last 2 QA 2.5mm (US C/2) hook
Tension is not critical, but it may affect the yarn sts, 1mtr, 1dc, turn. QToy stuffing
quantities required Row 8 Ch1, (dc in each dc and mtr to ch-sp, ch3, QCircle mountboard, circle measuring 8.5cm
skip ch-sp) rep across to end, turn. (3¼in) in diameter for the base
MEASUREMENTS Change to Yarn B. Q2 mountboard pieces, each measuring
Blanket measures approx 90x117cm (35½x46in) Row 9 Ch1, 1dc, ch4, skip 3 sts, 2mtr, 2dc, ch3, 2.5x8cm for the ears, with one short end cut
excluding tassels skip 2 sts, 2mtr, 2dc, 2mtr, ch3, skip 2 sts, 2dc, to form a pointed arch shape
2mtr, *ch3, skip 2 sts, 2dc, (ch3, skip 2 sts, 2mtr, Q2 lengths of craft wire, 2mm (12-gauge) and
ABBREVIATIONS 2dc) twice, 2mtr, ch3, skip 2 sts, 2dc, 2mtr; rep 33cm long (available at www.the-beadshop.
mtr Tr in skipped st 3 rows below, working in from * to last 4 sts, ch4, skip 3 sts, 1dc, turn. co.uk)
front of the ch-sps of the previous 2 rows. Rows 10-36 Cont in patt set, using the Chart as QA brass curtain or roman blind ring, 2cm
For a full list, see page 78 you work. QLong-nose pliers
Cont with Yarn A.
NOTES Rows 37-38 Ch1, dc in each st across, turn. TENSION
Parts of this pattern are worked using the Change to Yarn B. 23 sts and 26 rows measure 10 x10cm (4x4in)
mosaic method. Instead of changing colour Rows 39-238 As Row 37, changing colour every over checked pattern using a 2.5mm hook, or
mid-row, you will skip sts and work a ch-sp 4 rows between Yarn A and Yarn B. size needed to obtain correct tension
where a different colour is required. Then on Rows 239-272 Rep Rows 5-38.
the next row that uses that colour you will Fasten off and weave in ends. MEASUREMENTS
work mosaic sts into the skipped sts, working Impala measures approx 20cm (7¾in) tall
in front of the ch-sps of the previous rows. You BORDER (excluding horns) and 19cm (7½in) snout to
can find tutorials on this technique here: Work with 2 strands of Yarn C held together as back of head
www.gathered.how/knitting-and-crochet/ one throughout.
crochet/how-to-mosaic-crochet With RS facing, join Yarn C in first st in the top NOTES
There is a Chart on page 79, which you will right-hand corner. Parts of this pattern are worked using the
20 WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET
MERRY MONOCHROME
amigurumi method. Work stitches Row 23 Ch1, (dc in next 6 sts with Yarn A, dc in SHAPE BACK OF HEAD
continuously in a spiral without closing off next 2 sts with Yarn B, 2dc in next st, dc in next Row 45 Ch1, dc in next 6 sts with Yarn A, dc in
each round with a slip stitch. It may help to use 2 sts) 4 times, ss to first dc, turn. [48 sts] next 6 sts with Yarn B, *dc2tog, dc in next 2 sts,
a stitch marker in the first stitch of each round, Row 24 (Dc in next 6 sts with Yarn B, dc in next dc2tog* with Yarn A; rep from * to * with Yarn B;
moving it up as you work. 6 sts with Yarn A) 4 times, turn. rep from * to * with Yarn A, dc in next 6 sts with
Change colour on the final yrh of st before Row 25 Ch1, (2dc in next st, dc in next 5 sts with Yarn B, dc in next 6 sts with Yarn A, turn. [36 sts]
colour change is indicated. Carry the unused Yarn A, dc in next 6 sts with Yarn B) 4 times, ss to Row 46 Ch1, dc in next 6 sts with Yarn A, dc in
colour across the WS of your work. first dc, turn. [52 sts] next 6 sts with Yarn B, dc in next 4 sts with Yarn
Row 26 (Dc in next 7 sts with Yarn B, dc in next A, dc in next 4 sts with Yarn B, dc in next 4 sts
IMPALA 6 sts with Yarn A) 4 times, turn. with Yarn A, dc in next 6 sts with Yarn B, dc in
SNOUT Row 27 Ch1, (dc in next 7 sts with Yarn B, dc in next 6 sts with Yarn A, turn.
Using a 2.5mm hook and Yarn A, ch5. next 5 sts with Yarn A, 2dc in next st) 4 times, ss Row 47 Ch1, dc in next 6 sts with Yarn A, dc in
Row 1 (RS) Dc in second ch from hook, dc in to first dc, turn. [56 sts] next 6 sts with Yarn B, dc in next 2 sts with Yarn
next 3 ch, turn. [4 sts] Row 28 (Dc in next 7 sts with Yarn A, dc in next A, dc2tog, dc in next 4 sts with Yarn B, dc2tog
Row 2 (WS) Ch1, dc in each st to end, turn. 7 sts with Yarn B) 4 times, turn. with Yarn A, dc in next 2 sts, dc in next 6 sts
Rows 3-4 As Row 2. Row 29 Ch1, (dc in next 7 sts with Yarn B, in with Yarn B, dc in next 6 sts with Yarn A, turn.
Row 5 Ch1, dc in next st, join Yarn B in last st, dc next 7 sts with Yarn A) 4 times, ss to first dc, [34 sts]
in same dc as last st, dc in next 2 sts with Yarn B, turn. Row 48 Ch1, dc in next 6 sts with Yarn A, dc in
(dc with Yarn B, dc with Yarn A, dc with Yarn B) Rows 30-31 As Rows 28-29. next 6 sts with Yarn B, dc in next 3 sts with Yarn
in next st, rotate piece and dc in edge of next 2 Row 32 As Row 28. A, dc in next 4 sts with Yarn B, dc in next 3 sts
rows with Yarn B; working into opposite side of with Yarn A, dc in next 6 sts with Yarn B, dc in
each ch, (dc with Yarn B, dc with Yarn A, dc with SHAPE SIDES OF HEAD next 6 sts with Yarn A, turn.
Yarn B) in next st, dc in next 2 sts with Yarn B, Row 33 *Ch1, (dc in next 7 sts with Yarn A, dc in Row 49 Ch1, dc in next 6 sts with Yarn A, dc in
(dc with Yarn B, dc with Yarn A, dc with Yarn B) next 7 sts with Yarn B) 3 times, dc in next 7 sts next 6 sts with Yarn B, dc in next st with Yarn A,
in next st, rotate piece and work 1 dc in edge of with Yarn A, turn*, leaving the last 7 sts dc2tog, dc in next 4 sts with Yarn B, dc2tog
next 2 rows with Yarn B, dc in same st as first dc, unworked. with Yarn A, dc in next st, dc in next 6 sts with
ss to first dc, turn. [20 sts] Continue on the 49 sts just worked. Yarn B, dc in next 6 sts with Yarn A, turn. [32 sts]
Row 6 (Dc in next 4 sts with Yarn B, 2 dc in next Rows 34-38 Rep from * to * of Row 33. Row 50 Ch1, dc in next 6 sts with Yarn A, dc in
st with Yarn A) 4 times, turn. [24 sts] Row 39 Ch1, (dc in next 7 sts with Yarn B, dc in next 6 sts with Yarn B, dc2tog with Yarn A, dc in
Row 7 Ch1, (dc in next st, 2dc in next st with next 5 sts with Yarn A, dc2tog) 3 times, dc in next 4 sts with Yarn B, dc2tog with Yarn A, dc in
Yarn A, dc in next 4 sts with Yarn B) 4 times, ss to next 7 sts with Yarn B, turn. [46 sts] next 6 sts with Yarn B, dc in next 6 sts with Yarn
first dc, turn. [28 sts] Row 40 Ch1, (dc in next 7 sts with Yarn B, dc in A, turn. [30 sts]
Row 8 (Dc in next 4 sts with Yarn B, dc in next 3 next 6 sts with Yarn A) 3 times, dc in next 7 sts Row 51 Ch1, dc in next 6 sts with Yarn B, dc in
sts with Yarn A) 4 times, turn. with Yarn B, turn. next 6 sts with Yarn A, skip next st, ss in next st,
Row 9 Ch1, (dc in next 3 sts with Yarn B, dc in Row 41 Ch1, (dc2tog, dc in next 5 sts with Yarn turn, leaving the last 17 sts unworked.
next 4 sts with Yarn A) 4 times, ss to first dc, B, dc in next 6 sts with Yarn A) 3 times, dc2tog Row 52 Dc in next 6 sts with Yarn A, dc in next
turn. with Yarn B, dc in next 6 sts, turn. [42 sts] 6 sts with Yarn B, turn.
Row 10 (Dc in next 4 sts with Yarn A, dc in next Rows 42-44 Ch1, (dc in next 6 sts with Yarn B, Row 53 Ch1, dc in next 6 sts with Yarn B, dc in
3 sts with Yarn B) 4 times, turn. dc in next 6 sts with Yarn A) 3 times, dc in next 6 next 6 sts with Yarn A, skip next unworked st, ss
Rows 11-12 As Rows 9-10. sts with Yarn B, turn. in next st, turn.
Row 13 Ch1, (dc in next st, 2dc in next st, dc in
next st with Yarn A, dc in next 4 sts with Yarn B)
4 times, ss to first dc, turn. [32 sts]
Row 14 (Dc in next 4 sts with Yarn B, dc in next
4 sts with Yarn A) 4 times, turn.
Row 15 Ch1, (dc in next 4 sts with Yarn A, dc in
next 4 sts with Yarn B) 4 times, ss to first dc, turn.
Row 16 As Row 14.
Row 17 Ch1, (2dc in next st, dc in next 3 sts with
Yarn B, dc in next 4 sts with Yarn A) 4 times, ss to
first dc, turn. [36 sts]
Row 18 (Dc in next 4 sts with Yarn A, dc in next
5 sts with Yarn B) 4 times, turn.
Row 19 Ch1, (dc in next 5 sts with Yarn B, dc in
next 3 sts with Yarn A, 2dc in next st) 4 times, ss
to first dc, turn. [40 sts]
Row 20 (Dc in next 5 sts with Yarn A, dc in next
5 sts with Yarn B) 4 times, turn.
Row 21 Ch1, (dc in next 2 sts, 2dc in next st, dc
in next 2 sts with Yarn A, dc in next 5 sts with
Yarn B) 4 times, ss to first dc, turn. [44 sts]
Row 22 (Dc in next 5 sts with Yarn B, dc in next
6 sts with Yarn A) 4 times, turn.
WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET 21
MERRY MONOCHROME
Rows 54-55 As Rows 52-53. Row 11 Ch1, dc2tog with Yarn A, (dc in next 6 Round 4 (1dc, 2dc in next st, 1dc) 6 times.
Row 56 As Row 52. sts with Yarn B, dc in next 6 sts with Yarn A) [24 sts]
Do not fasten off. twice, dc in next 6 sts with Yarn B, dc2tog with Rounds 5-8 Cont increasing by 6 sts on each
Yarn A, turn. [32 sts] round as set. [48 sts]
NECK Row 12 Ch1, dc2tog with Yarn B, dc in next 5 Rounds 9-11 Dc in each st around.
With RS facing, skip next 12 sts of last row, skip sts, dc in next 6 sts with Yarn A, dc in next 6 sts Fasten off first piece only.
next 11 unworked sts, ss in next dc with Yarn B with Yarn B, dc in next 6 sts with Yarn A, dc in
to join the corners. next 5 sts with Yarn B, dc2tog, turn. [30 sts] JOIN BASE PIECES
Row 1 (RS) Ch1, rotate Head and, starting in Row 13 Ch1, dc2tog, dc in next 4 sts with Yarn Place the 2 Base pieces with WS together.
same st as ss, *dc in edge of next 6 Rows with A, dc in next 6 sts with Yarn B, dc in next 6 sts Dc in next 30 dc of both pieces to join, insert
Yarn B, dc in edge of next 6 Rows with Yarn A*, with Yarn A, dc in next 6 sts with Yarn B, dc in circle mount board between the pieces, dc rem
dc in edge of next 6 Rows with Yarn B, dc in next 4 sts with Yarn A, dc2tog, turn. [28 sts] 18 dc to close.
next 5 unworked sts of Row 32 of Head with Row 14 Ch1, dc2tog, dc in next 3 sts with Yarn Do not fasten off.
Yarn A, dc2tog; rotate Head and rep from * to * A, dc in next 6 sts with Yarn B, dc in next 6 sts
twice, ss to first dc, turn. [48 sts] with Yarn A, dc in next 6 sts with Yarn B, dc in JOIN BASE TO NECK
Row 2 (WS) (Dc in next 6 sts with Yarn A, dc in next 3 sts with Yarn A, dc2tog, turn. [26 sts] With the Base facing, dc into each of the 48 sts
next 6 sts with Yarn B) 4 times, turn. Row 15 Ch1, dc2tog, dc in next 2 sts with Yarn of the Base and the Neck Edging at the same
Row 3 Ch1, (dc in next 6 sts with Yarn B, dc in A, dc in next 6 sts with Yarn B, dc in next 6 sts time to join, inserting more stuffing into the
next 6 sts with Yarn A) 4 times, ss in next st, turn. with Yarn A, dc in next 6 sts with Yarn B, dc in Neck before closing.
Rows 4-5 As Rows 2-3. next 2 sts with Yarn A, dc2tog, turn. [24 sts] Ss to next st and fasten off.
Row 6 As Row 2. Row 16 Ch1, dc2tog, dc in next st with Yarn A,
Row 7 Ch1, dc2tog, dc in next 4 sts with Yarn A, dc in next 6 sts with Yarn B, dc in next 6 sts with EARS (MAKE 2)
(dc in next 6 sts with Yarn B, dc in next 6 sts Yarn A, dc in next 6 sts with Yarn B, dc in next st INNER EAR
with Yarn A) twice, dc in next 6 sts with Yarn B, with Yarn A, dc2tog, turn. [22 sts] Using a 2.5mm hook and Yarn A, ch16.
dc in next 4 sts with Yarn A, dc2tog, turn, Row 17 Ch1, dc2tog with Yarn A, dc in next 6 sts Row 1 (RS) Dc in second ch from hook, change
leaving the last 6 sts unworked. [40 sts] with Yarn B, dc in next 6 sts with Yarn A, dc in to Yarn B, dc in next 5 ch, dc in next 5 ch with
Cont on 40 sts. next 6 sts with Yarn B, dc2tog with Yarn A, turn. Yarn A, turn. [15 sts]
Row 8 Ch1, dc2tog, dc in next 3 sts with Yarn A, [20 sts] Row 2 (WS) Ch1, dc in next 5 sts with Yarn A, dc
(dc in next 6 sts with Yarn B, dc in next 6 sts Row 18 Ch1, dc2tog with Yarn B, dc in next 5 in next 5 sts with Yarn B, dc in next 5 sts with
with Yarn A) twice, dc in next 6 sts with Yarn B, sts, dc in next 6 sts with Yarn A, dc in next 6 sts Yarn A, turn.
dc in next 3 sts with Yarn A, dc2tog, turn. with Yarn B, dc2tog, turn. [18 sts] Rows 3-6 As Row 2.
[38 sts] Row 19 Ch1, dc2tog, dc in next 4 sts with Yarn Rows 7-10 Ch1, dc in next 5 sts with Yarn B, dc
Row 9 Ch1, dc2tog, dc in next 2 sts with Yarn A, A, dc in next 6 sts with Yarn B, dc in next 4 sts in next 5 sts with Yarn A, dc in next 5 sts with
(dc in next 6 sts with Yarn B, dc in next 6 sts with Yarn A, dc2tog, turn. [16 sts] Yarn B, turn.
with Yarn A) twice, dc in next 6 sts with Yarn B, Row 20 Ch1, dc2tog, dc in next 3 sts with Yarn Row 11 Ch1, dc2tog, dc in next 3 sts with Yarn
dc in next 2 sts with Yarn A, dc2tog, turn. A, dc in next 6 sts with Yarn B, dc in next 3 sts B, dc in next 5 sts with Yarn A, dc in next 3 sts
[36 sts] with Yarn A, dc2tog, turn. [14 sts] with Yarn B, dc2tog, turn. [13 sts]
Row 10 Ch1, dc2tog, dc in next st with Yarn A, Row 21 Ch1, dc2tog, dc in next 2 sts with Yarn Row 12 Ch1, dc in next 4 sts with Yarn B, dc in
(dc in next 6 sts with Yarn B, dc in next 6 sts A, dc in next 6 sts with Yarn B, dc in next 2 sts next 5 sts with Yarn A, dc in next 4 sts with Yarn
with Yarn A) twice, dc in next 6 sts with Yarn B, with Yarn A, dc2tog, turn. [12 sts] B, turn.
dc in next st with Yarn A, dc2tog, turn. [34 sts] Row 22 Ch1, dc2tog, dc in next st with Yarn A, Row 13 Ch1, dc2tog, dc in next 2 sts with Yarn
dc in next 6 sts with Yarn B, dc in next st with A, dc in next 5 sts with Yarn B, dc in next 2 sts
Yarn A, dc2tog, turn. [10 sts] with Yarn A, dc2tog, turn. [11 sts]
Row 23 Ch1, dc2tog with Yarn A, dc in next 6 Row 14 Ch1, dc in next 3 sts with Yarn A, dc in
sts with Yarn B, dc2tog with Yarn A, turn. [8 sts] next 5 sts with Yarn B, dc in next 3 sts with Yarn
Row 24 Ch1, dc2tog with Yarn B, dc in next 4 sts A, turn.
with Yarn A, dc2tog with Yarn B, turn. [6 sts] Row 15 Ch1, dc2tog, dc in next st with Yarn A,
Do not fasten off. dc in next 5 sts with Yarn B, dc in next st with
Yarn A, dc2tog, turn. [9 sts]
NECK EDGING Row 16 Ch1, dc in next 2 sts with Yarn A, dc in
Row 1 (RS) Change Yarn A, ch1, *dc in next 6 next 5 sts with Yarn B, dc in next 2 sts with Yarn
sts, dc in edge of next 18 Rows, dc in next 6 sts*; A, turn.
rep from * to *. [48 sts] Row 17 Ch1, dc2tog with Yarn A, dc in next 5 sts
Fasten off. with Yarn B, dc2tog with Yarn A, turn. [7 sts]
Sew together the opening at the back of the Row 18 Ch1, dc in next st with Yarn A, dc in next
Head. Stuff the Head and Neck firmly. 5 sts with Yarn B, dc in next st with Yarn A, turn.
Continue with Yarn A.
BASE (MAKE 2) Row 19 Ch1, dc2tog, dc in each st to last 2 sts,
Using 2.5mm hook and Yarn A, make a magic dc2tog, turn. [5 sts]
loop. Row 20 Ch1, dc in each st to end.
Round 1 (RS) Ch1, 6dc into loop. [6 sts] Row 21 As Row 19. [3 sts]
Round 2 2dc in each st around. [12 sts] Row 22 Ch1, dc2tog, dc in next st. [2 sts]
Round 3 (2dc in next st, 1dc) 6 times. [18 sts] Fasten off.
22 WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET
MERRY MONOCHROME
EAR EDGING Round 11 (2dc in next st, 2dc) 3 times. [12 sts]
With RS of Ear facing, join Yarn A with a ss to the Rounds 12-20 Dc in each st around.
edge of the first row. Round 21 (2dc in next st, 3dc) 3 times. [15 sts]
Row 1 Ch1, dc in next 6 rows with Yarn A, dc in Rounds 22-26 Dc in each st around. Turn at the
next 6 Rows with Yarn B, (dc in next 9 Rows, 2dc end of Row 26.
in next 2 sts of Row 21, dc in next 9 Rows) with Cont in rows.
Yarn A, dc in next 6 Rows with Yarn B, dc in next Row 1 (WS) Ch2, htr in bl only of each st to end,
6 Rows with Yarn A. [46 sts] turn.
Fasten off. Row 2 (RS) Ch1, dc in unworked loop of each st
to end, turn.
OUTER EAR Rows 3-6 Ch1, dc in each st to end, turn.
Work as for Inner Ear. Rows 7-12 As Rows 1-6.
Do not fasten off after completing the Ear Rows 13-17 As Rows 1-5.
Edging. Row 18 Ch1, (2dc in next st, 4dc) 3 times, turn.
[18 sts]
JOIN EAR PIECES Rows 19-24 As Rows 1-6.
Place WS of an Inner and an Outer Ear together. Rows 25-29 As Rows 1-5.
Row 1 Ch1, working into each stitch of both Row 30 Ch1, (2dc in next st, 5dc) 3 times, turn.
pieces at the same time to join, dc in next 6 sts [21 sts]
with Yarn A, dc in next 6 sts with Yarn B, (dc in Rows 31-90 Rep Rows 1-6 another 10 times.
next 10 sts, 2dc in next 2 sts, dc in next 10 sts) Fasten off, leaving a long tail of yarn.
with Yarn A, dc in next 6 sts with Yarn B, dc in
next 6 sts with Yarn A, ss to first dc to join the
corners. [48 sts]
HANGING LOOP
Using a 2.5mm hook and Yarn A, work 25 dc
Christmas garland
Make a modern Christmas garland and
Fasten off, leaving a long tail of Yarn A at the around brass ring, ss to the first dc. decorate your home with a string of this
end. Fasten off, leaving a long tail. sparkling bunting from Catherine Venner
Sew the lower edge of the ring securely to the QYarn and Colors Must-Have (100% cotton,
EYES (MAKE 2) top of the Base. 50g/125m), 1 ball of each: White (001), Black
EYEBALL (100)
Using a 2.5mm hook and Yarn A, make a magic TO MAKE UP QYarn and Colors Glamour (100% polyester,
loop. Sew all around the outer edges of the Eyes, 20g/158m), 1 ball of Gold (089)
Round 1 (RS) Ch1, 5dc into loop. [5 sts] inserting a small amount of stuffing into the QA 2.5mm (US B/1 or C/2) hook
Round 2 2dc in each st around. [10 sts] Eyeball before closing the opening. Using Yarn QA 3mm (US C/2 or D/3) hook
Round 3 (2dc in next st, 1dc) 5 times. [15 sts] C, embroider a highlight in each Eye. Q10 findings, 25mm
Change to Yarn B. Insert the pointed end of each strip of board Q10 Jute tassels, (available from https://amzn.
into the tip of the Ears. Sew together the open to/4doWfwQ)
EYE SOCKET edges. Sew together the corners to shape the
Round 4 (Working in bl only) (2dc in next st, Ears. Sew the Ears to the Head. TENSION
2dc) 5 times. [20 sts] Use the pliers to bend and pinch together 1cm Tension is not critical, but it may affect the yarn
Round 5 (Working in bl only) (2dc in next st, at one sharp end on each length of wire to quantities required
2dc) 3 times, 2dc in next st, ss in next 10 dc. prevent them poking through the Horns. Push
[24 sts] a small amount of stuffing into the tip of the MEASUREMENTS
Do not fasten off. Horn. Thread the folded end of the wire Each Flag measures approx 11cm (4¼in) wide
through the opening at the base of the Horn,
EYELID into the stuffed tip. Add stuffing around the ABBREVIATIONS
The following is worked in Rows. wire at the top of the Horn. Working in stages, picot Ch3, ss in last ch from hook
Row 1 Ch1, working in the unworked fl of the starting at the lower end of the Horn, wrap a For a full list, see page 78
next 10 dc of Round 4, dc in next st, htr in next section of the wire with stuffing and use the tail
8 sts, dc in next st (these 10 sts form the upper of yarn to sew together the open edges to NOTES
lid), ch1, ss in the first ss of the previous round, encase the wrapped wire. Poke the sharp ends Flags are worked in rounds with RS facing
turn. of the excess wire into the Head, where the throughout.
Row 2 Ch1, ss in each of the 10 sts of the eyelid, Horns are to be attached. Parts of this pattern are worked using the
ch1, ss in the first dc of Round 5, behind the With the seam facing the back of the Head, sew amigurumi method. Work stitches
Eyelid. the Horns in place, stitching all around the continuously in a spiral without closing off
Fasten off, leaving a long tail of Yarn B. edges. each round with a slip stitch. It may help to use
Bend the Horns to shape. a stitch marker in the first stitch of each round,
HORNS (MAKE 2) Weave in all rem ends. moving it up as you work.
Using a 2mm hook and Yarn C, make a magic
loop. BUNTING
Round 1 Ch1, 6dc into loop. [6 sts] FLAGS (MAKE 10)
Round 2 Dc in each st around. Use Gold for Rounds 1-4 on all Flags. Then
Round 3 (2dc in next st, 1dc) 3 times. [9 sts] make 5 each in Black and White for Rounds
Rounds 4-10 Dc in each st around. 5-12.
WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET 23
MERRY MONOCHROME
Using a 2.5mm hook and Gold, make a magic edge, dc in next 22 sts, 2dc in next ch-sp, ch28; throughout), dc in each st across, turn.
loop. rep from * for each Flag, ch41, turn. Change to Yarn B.
Round 1 (RS) Ch1 (does not count as st), 6dc in Row 2 Ss in second ch from hook, ss in each ch/ Rows 29-56 As Row 2.
loop. [6 sts] st across.
Round 2 (RS) 2dc in each st around. [12 sts] Fasten off and weave in all ends. EDGING
Round 3 (1dc, 2dc in next st) 6 times. [18 sts] Attach a finding to the bottom corner of each Join Yarn C (holding 2 strands together as one
Round 4 *(1dc, 1htr) in next st, (1tr, 1dtr, picot, Flag. Attach a tassel to each finding and trim if throughout) in first st across top.
1tr) in next st, (1htr, 1dc) in next st; rep from * desired. Round 1 Ch1, *dc in each st and row-end to
5 times more, ss to beg dc. corner, (dc, ch2, dc) in corner; rep from * 3 times
Fasten off. more, ss to beg dc.
Join next colour in last dc from Round 4.
Round 5 Ch1, (dc in next 2 dc, ch3, skip 5 sts) 6
times. [12 dc and 6 ch-3-sps]
snowflake Cushion
Cuddle up on the sofa with this stylish
Fasten off.
SURFACE CROCHET
Position ch-sps behind sts from Round 4. crochet cushion from Emma Leith. We’d Use Yarn A for surface crochet over Yarn B half
Round 6 (2dc, 4dc in ch-3 sp) 6 times. [36 sts] love to see how a whole set would look of Panel and use Yarn B for surface crochet over
Round 7 (5dc, 2dc in next st) 6 times. [42 sts] QYarn and Colors Epic (100% cotton, 50g/75m), Yarn A half.
Round 8 (7dc, 1dc in picot from Round 4) 6 3 balls of each: Yarn A Black (100), Yarn B Hold work so Yarn A Rows 1-28 are showing as
times. [48 sts] White (001) the bottom half and the RS is facing.
Round 9 (4dc, 2htr, 2tr, ch2, 2tr, 2tr, 4dc) 3 QYarn and Colors Glamour (100% polyester, Using the image as a guide and a 2.5mm hook,
times. [48 sts, 3 ch-2-sp] 20g/158m), 1 ball of Yarn C Gold (089) surface crochet the 6 stems. You could use a
Round 10 *4dc, 2htr, 2tr, (1tr, ch2, 1tr) in ch-2 sp, QA 4mm (US G/6) hook chalk pen to mark out the positions.
2tr, 2htr, 4dc; rep from * twice more. QA 3mm (US C/2 or D/3) hook
[54 and 3 ch-2-sp sts] QA 2mm (US B/1) hook STAR
Round 11 *4dc, 2htr, 3tr, (1tr, ch2, 1tr) in ch-2 sp, QA cushion pad, 30x3cm Using a 2mm hook and Yarn C, make magic
3tr, 2htr, 4dc; rep from * twice more. QA chalk pen (optional) loop.
[60 and 3 ch-2-sp sts] Round 1 (RS) Ch1, 12htr in loop, ss to top of
Round 12 *6htr, 4tr, (1tr, ch3, 1tr) in ch-2 sp, 4tr, TENSION beg htr. [12 sts]
6hr; rep from * twice more. 15 sts and 19 rows measure 10x10cm (4x4in) Round 2 Ch2 (counts as first leg of tr2tog), tr in
[66 and 3 ch-3-sp sts] over double crochet using a 4mm hook, or size next st, ch4, (tr2tog, ch4) 5 times, ss to top of
Fasten off. needed to obtain correct tension beg tr2tog. [6 sts, 6 ch-4 sps]
Next row works across two sides of the Flag. Round 3 Ch1, *FPdc around tr2tog, (htr, tr, ch4,
Using a 3mm hook, join Gold in any ch-3 sp. MEASUREMENTS tr, htr) in ch-4 sp; rep from * around, ss to top of
Row 13 Ch1, 2dc in ch-sp, dc in next 22 sts, (2dc, Cushion measures approx 30x30cm beg FPdc. [30 sts, 6 ch-4 sps]
ch2, 2dc) in ch-sp, dc in next 22 sts, 2dc in (11¾x11¾in) Round 4 Ch1, dc in FPdc, dc in next 2 sts, *(dc,
corner. ch4 picot, 2dtr, ch1, ch6 picot, ch7 picot, ch6
Fasten off. ABBREVIATIONS picot, ss to ch1, 2dtr, ch4 picot, dc) in ch-4 sp, dc
Block the Flags. reverse dc Insert hook in next st to right (or left in next 5 sts; rep form * around, ss to top of beg
if left-handed), yrh and pull up a loop, yrh and dc.
TO MAKE UP pull through 2 loops on hook Fasten off.
Flags are joined together across the unworked surface crochet Position yarn on WS, insert Sew to the centre of the front.
edges. Work with RS facing. hook from RS to WS, yrh and pull up a loop, pull
Use a 3mm hook and Gold. through loop on hook, *insert hook back TO MAKE UP
Row 1 (RS) Ch40, *2dc in first ch-sp across top through to WS in direction you want the Place Panels together with RS facing out.
surface crochet to travel, yrh and pull up a loop, Using a 4mm hook and 2 strands of Yarn C held
pull through loop on hook; rep from * as together as one, join yarn in any corner of both
required Panels.
ch4 picot Ch4, ss to 4th ch Round 1 Ch1, reverse dc around joining 3 sides,
ch6 picot Ch6, ss to 6th ch reverse dc across front only on final side, turn,
ch7 picot Ch7, ss to 7th ch reverse dc across unworked sts of back, ss to
For a full list, see page 78 last joining st.
Fasten off and weave in all ends.
NOTES
Cushion is made up of 2 identical Panels. Each
Panel is worked in rows and edged with Gold.
One Panel is embellished with surface crochet
and a Star motif.
holly WREATH
Use a gold hoop to set off the embroidered
holly motifs in this gorgeous contemporary
CUSHION wreath design from Karen Hubbard
PANEL (MAKE 2) QYarn and Colors Must-Have (100% cotton,
Using a 4mm hook and Yarn A, ch45. 50g/125m), 1 ball of each: White (001), Black
Row 1 Dc in second ch from hook, dc in each ch (100)
to end, turn. [44 sts] QYarn and Colors Glamour (100% polyester,
Rows 2-28 Ch1 (does not count as st 20g/158m), 1 ball of Gold (089)
24 WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET
MERRY MONOCHROME
TENSION
Tension is not critical, but it may affect the yarn
quantities required
MEASUREMENTS
Single Leaf measures approx 7.5cm (3in) long
ABBREVIATIONS
picot Ch2, ss in second ch from hook
invdec Insert hook in front loop of next st,
insert hook in front loop of next st across, yrh
and pull through both sts, yrh and pull through
2 loops on hook
For a full list, see page 78
NOTES
Leaves are worked in rounds. Crochet over the
Gift SACK
Spoil a loved one with a bag for little gifts
Black, dc in next 16 sts, turn.
Row 7 Ch1, dc in first 14 sts, change to White, dc
in next 4 sts, change to Black, dc in next 2 sts,
starting tail to reduce the number of ends you this Christmas from Jane Howarth. It’s change to White, dc in next 4 sts, change to
need to weave in. equally good for taking goodies to parties Black, dc in next 14 sts, turn.
Use the starting tail from the Berries to lightly QYarn and Colors Epic (100% cotton, 50g/75m), Row 8 Ch1, dc in first 12 sts, change to White, dc
stuff them. 4 balls of Black (100), 2 balls of White (001) in next 6 sts, change to Black, dc in next 2 sts,
QYarn and Colors Glamour (100% polyester, change to White, dc in next 6 sts, change to
WREATH 20g/158m), 3 balls of Gold (089) Black, dc in next 12 sts, turn.
HOLLY LEAVES (MAKE 12) QA 5mm (US H/8) hook Rows 9-46 Cont in patt set, using the Chart for
Make 6 each in White and Black. all colour changes.
Ch11. TENSION Cont with Black.
Round 1 (RS) Dc in second ch from hook, 2htr, Tension is not critical, but it may affect the yarn Rows 47-52 Ch1, dc in each st across, turn.
1tr, 2tr in next 2 ch, 1tr, 1htr, 1dc, 3dc in last ch, quantities required Row 53 Ch1, dc in first 3 sts, (skip 1 st, ch1, dc in
turn to work down opposite side of foundation next 5 sts) twice, skip 1 st, ch1, dc in next 6 sts,
ch, 1dc, 1htr, 1tr, 2tr in next 2 ch, 1tr, 2htr, 1dc, ss MEASUREMENTS (skip 1 st, ch1, dc in next 5 sts) twice, skip 1 st,
to beg dc. [25 sts] Gift Sack measures 27x36cm (10½x14¼in) ch1, dc in final 3 sts, turn. [32 sts, 6 ch-1 sps]
Round 2 *Ss into next st, (1dc, ch-2 picot, 1dc) Row 54 Ch1, dc in each st and ch-sp across,
in next st; rep from * 10 times more, ss in next 3 NOTES turn. [38 sts]
sts, ch4, ss in second ch from hook, ss in next 2 Gift Sack is made up of 2 identical Panels. Each Rows 55-61 Ch1, dc in each st across, turn.
ch (stalk made), ss to st at base of ch. Panel is worked in rows. Fasten off and weave in ends.
Fasten off. There is a Chart on page 79, which you will
Join Gold in bl of any st. need to refer to. Each small square represents RIBBON
Round 3 *Ss in bl of each st to picot, (ch1, ss, 1dc. Read all RS rows from right to left and WS Using Gold, ch115.
ch1) in picot; rep from * around to end, ss in first rows from left to right. The first few rows of Row 1 (RS) Dc in second ch from hook, dc in
ss. the Chart have been written out to guide you. each ch across. [114 sts]
Fasten off and weave in ends. Change colour on the final yrh of st before Fasten off and weave in ends.
Using Gold, sew the veins over the Holly. colour change is indicated. Carry the unused
colour across the top of your sts, enclosing the TO MAKE UP
HOLLY BERRIES (MAKE 7) strand as you work. Place Panels together with WS facing out.
Using Gold, make a magic loop. When working with Gold, use 3 strands held Using Black, sew the sides and base together.
Round 1 (RS) Ch1 (does not count as st), 6dc in together as one throughout. Turn so RS is facing ut and weave the ribbon
loop. [6 sts] through the eyelets and secure with a bow.
Round 2 2dc in each st around. [12 sts] GIFT SACK
Round 3 (Invdec) 6 times. [6 sts] PANEL (MAKE 2)
Fasten off. Using Black, ch39.
Use starting tail to lightly stuff each Berry and Row 1 (RS) Dc in second ch from hook, dc in
use finishing tail to gather the Round 3 sts and each ch across, turn. [38 sts]
close the top. Row 2 (WS) Ch1 (does not count as st
throughout), dc in each st across, turn.
TO MAKE UP Rows 3-5 Ch1, dc in each st across, turn.
Arrange Leaves on ring and glue in place. Glue Row 6 Ch1, dc in first 16 sts, change to White, dc YARN STOCKISTS
berries on top of Leaves. in next 2 sts, change to Black, dc in next 2 sts, Yarn and Colors
Use ribbon to make a bow and glue in place. change to White, dc in next 2 sts, change to www.yarnandcolors.com
WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET 25
CHRISTMAS JUMPER
technique
twist!
Up to snow good
Cassie Ward’s contemporary design displays a
quirky mix of Fair Isle and colourful hexies
WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET 27
CHRISTMAS JUMPER
28 WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET
CHRISTMAS JUMPER
WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET 29
ELF AMIGURUMI TOY
best
size for
cuddles
WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET 31
ELF AMIGURUMI TOY
32 WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET
ELF AMIGURUMI TOY
Tail end
1 To start a magic loop, don’t 2 Insert your hook into the 3 Make a t-ch for the sts you 4 Once you’ve worked all the
make a slipknot. Instead, make loop, from front to back. Wrap want to work (above, we stitches you need, pull the tail
a loop with the yarn, leaving a the working yarn round the made 1 t-ch for dc). Now work end of the yarn to close the
tail around 10cm long. Make hook anticlockwise and pull the sts into the magic loop, ring. Work a slip stitch to join
sure the tail end is under the the yarn through the loop. making sure you work over the first and last stitches to
working yarn. both the loop and the tail end finish the first round.
(so, 2 yarn strands).
WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET 33
saVe tiMe, moNey aNd haSsle With aN
anNual SimplY crochEt subsCriptioN
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Twinkle toes
Put your feet up and create multicoloured
sparkly socks from West Yorkshire Spinners
Fab for
gifts!
CHRISTMAS SOCKS
TENSION
12 sts and 11 rounds measure 5x5cm
(2x2in) over double crochet using
3mm hook, or size
needed to achieve correct tension
ABBREVIATIONS
fdc (foundation double crochet)
*Insert hook in base of last st, yrh
and pull up a loop, pull through one
loop on hook (loop will sit at base of It’s just not Christmas without a pair of socks Small size is shown outside the brackets,
fdc), yrh and pull through 2 loops on under the tree! Don’t forget to block them medium and large sizes are shown within
hook; rep from * as required when you’re done so they look their best. brackets.
For a full list, see page 78 Please note that the measurements are before
NOTES blocking, and the crochet fabric will stretch
Socks are worked from the top down. Cuff is length-wise and width-wise once blocked.
worked in short rows and seamed together.
The Leg is worked around the row-end edge of SOCKS (MAKE 2)
the Cuff. Leg, Foot and Toes are worked in CUFF
rounds leaving a space for the Heel. The Heel is Ch11.
worked onto the sock at the end. Row 1 (WS) Dc in second ch from hook, dc in
Parts of this pattern are worked using the each ch to end, turn. [10 sts]
amigurumi method. Work stitches continuously Row 2 (RS) Ch1 (does not count as a st
in a spiral without closing off each round with a throughout), dc in bl of each st to end, turn.
slip stitch. It may help to use a stitch marker in Rep Row 2 another 38 (42: 46) times.
the first stitch of each round, moving it up as [40 (44: 48) rows in total]
you work. With WS facing, ss through bl of final row and
SIZE S M L
To make this pattern easier to follow, we’ve colour-coded the sizing instructions – simply follow the
relevant column.
WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET 37
CHRISTMAS SOCKS
base of Row 1 to join Cuff into round. marked st. [38 (42: 46) sts]
Do not fasten off. Move the markers up as you work.
Round 2 Dc in each st around.
LEG Round 3 Dc2tog, dc in each st to 2 sts before
Work in row-ends of Cuff. marker, dc2tog, dc in marked st, dc2tog, dc in
Round 1 (RS) Ch1, 42 (46: 50) dc evenly around. each st to 2 sts before next marker, dc2tog, dc
Round 2 (RS) Dc in bl of each st around. in final marked st. [34 (38: 42) sts]
Round 2 sets dc back loop pattern. Rep Rounds 2-3 another 3 (4: 5) times. [22 sts]
Work in bl unless otherwise instructed. Fasten off, leaving a long tail.
Rounds 3-5 As Round 2. With WS facing, flatten final round and sew
Round 6 (2dc in next st, 20 (22: 24) dc) twice. closed.
[44 (48: 52) sts]
Rounds 7-12 As Round 2. HEEL
Round 13 (2dc in next st, 21 (23: 25) dc) twice. With RS facing join yarn at the bottom right
[46 (50: 54) sts] corner of the heel opening to work across the
Rounds 14-21 As Round 2. back of the fdc.
Space is made for the Heel over the next round. Round 1 (RS) Ch1, 25 (27: 29) dc across foot side
Round 22 Work 23 (25: 27) fdc, skip next 23 (25: of Heel, pm in last st, 25 (27: 29) dc across
27) sts, dc in final 23 (25: 27) sts. skipped sts of Leg, pm in last st. [50 (54: 58) sts] Work in the back loops for a textured fabric –
Round 2 Dc2tog, dc in each st to 2 sts before stripes are created naturally by the yarn
FOOT marker, dc2tog, dc in marked st, dc2tog, dc in
Round 23 Dc in bl of each st around. each st to 2 sts before next marker, dc2tog, dc
Rounds 24-26 As Round 23. in st marked st. [46 (50: 54) sts]
Round 27 (Dc2tog, 21 (23: 25) dc) twice. Move markers up as you work.
[44 (48: 52) sts] Round 3 Dc in each st around.
Rounds 28-32 As Round 23. Round 4 Dc2tog, dc in each st to 2 sts before
Round 33 (Dc2tog, 20 (22: 24) dc) twice. marker, dc2tog, dc in marked st, dc2tog, dc in
[42 (46: 50) sts] each st to 2 sts before next marker, dc2tog, dc
Rep Round 23 until the Foot measures 13 (13: in st marked st. [42 (46: 50) sts]
15)cm from Heel space. Rep Rounds 3-4 another 5 times. [22 (26: 30) sts]
Fasten off leaving a long tail.
TOES With WS facing, flatten final round and sew
Lay Sock flat with the Heel opening at the back, closed.
making sure that it’s centred. Place markers at
either end of last round so that there are 20 (22: TO FINISH
24) sts between the markers. Dc in bl to first Weave in ends.
marker to move start of round. To wet block: soak socks in lukewarm water,
Do not work in bl only for Toe section. squeeze out excess moisture and pin out to
Round 1 (RS) Dc2tog, dc to 2 sts before next size, or place them on sock blockers. Allow to
marker, dc2tog, dc in marked st, dc2tog, dc to 2 dry naturally. Leave a gap while working the leg and foot,
sts before next marker, dc2tog, dc in final then return to it to create the heel
1 Keep the yarn’s ball band 2 To handwash, soak for 3 Lay the crochet item on top 4 Gently reshape the crochet
safe and check it for care around 30 minutes in a bowl of a towel and roll up the item. Leave it to dry on a towel
information. The band will tell of lukewarm water with a mild towel to squeeze out excess somewhere flat, such as on a
you what temperature to detergent. Don’t rub or you moisture, making sure you do board or a folded blanket. Pin
wash the yarn at and whether may felt the piece. Then rinse, not wring. out if needed. Never hang up
it can go in the machine or if it unless you’ve used a an item to dry because its
needs to be handwashed. non-rinsing detergent, such weight may stretch the yarn.
as Soak or Eucalan.
38 WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET
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Bobble-icious
Bring the drama in a stunning
sweater by Chloé Elizabeth Birch
popcorn
stitch
BOBBLE SLEEVE SWEATER
TENSION
11 sts and 8 rows measure 10x10cm
(4x4in) over half treble crochet using
a 7mm hook, or size needed to
obtain correct tension
ABBREVIATIONS
5-popcorn 5tr in next st, remove
live loop from hook, insert hook in Make an impact in on-trend purple! Worked (being careful not to twist the ch).
first tr, place loop back on hook and top down, it’s easy to lengthen this sweater if Round 1 (RS) Ch3 (counts as tr throughout), tr
pull through st preferred, though you may need more yarn. in each ch around, ss into top of beg ch-3.
4-popcorn 4tr in next st, remove [64 (68: 72: 76: 80: 84: 88) sts]
live loop from hook, insert hook in NOTES Round 2 Ch2 (counts as st throughout), FPtr
first tr, place loop back on hook and Sweater is worked from the Yoke down. Yoke is around next st, (BPtr around next st, FPtr
pull through st worked in a single piece, then separated into around next st) rep around, ss to top of beg ch-2.
3-popcorn 3tr in next st, remove Sleeves and Body. Round 3 As Round 2.
live loop from hook, insert hook in Work in rounds with RS facing throughout.
first tr, place loop back on hook and Sweater is designed to be oversized. Model YOKE
pull through st is pictured wearing size XS. Change to a 7mm hook.
For a full list, see page 78 Round 1 Ch2, htr in st at base of ch-2, 20 (22: 24:
SWEATER 26: 28: 30: 32) htr, 2htr in next st, FPtr around
NECKLINE EDGE next st, 2htr in next st, 6htr, 2htr in next st, FPtr
Using a 6mm hook, ch64 (68: 72: 76: 80: 84: 88) around next st**, 2htr in next st; rep from * to **
and ss in last ch from hook to make a loop once more, ss to top of beg ch-2.
SIZE XS S M L XL 2X 3X
cm 71-76 81-86 91-97 102-107 112-117 122-127 132-137
TO FIT BUST
in 28-30 32-34 36-38 40-42 44-46 48-50 52-54
b
ACTUAL BUST cm 112 122 128 139 149.5 159.5 169.5
(APPROX) in 44 48 50¾ 54¾ 58¾ 62¾ 66¾
cm 48.5 51 53.5 56 58.5 61 63.5
LENGTH
c
a in 19 20 21 22 23 24 25
cm 42 42 42 42 42 42 42
SLEEVE LENGTH
in 16½ 16½ 16½ 16½ 16½ 16½ 16½
Width a: 56 (61: 64.5: 69.5: 74.5: 80: 85)cm,
22 (24: 25¼: 27¼: 29¼: 31½: 33½)in YARN 50g 14 16 18 20 22 24 26
Length b: 48.5 (51: 53.5: 56: 58.5: 61: 63.5)cm,
19 (20: 21: 22: 23: 24: 25)in To make this pattern easier to follow, we’ve colour-coded the sizing instructions – simply follow the
Sleeve length c: 42cm, 16½in relevant column.
42 WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET
BOBBLE SLEEVE SWEATER
[72 (76: 80: 84: 88: 92: 96) sts, 26 (28: 30: 32: 34: Round 22 Ch3, (5-popcorn, 3tr) rep to last 3 sts,
36: 38) sts Front/Back, 10 sts Sleeves] 5-popcorn, 2tr, ss to beg ch-3.
Round 2 Ch2, htr in st at base of ch-2, (htr to st Round 23 As Round 2.
before FPtr, 2htr in next st, FPtr around FP st, Round 24 Ch3, (4-popcorn, 3tr) rep to last 3 sts,
2htr in next st) 3 times, htr to st before next 4-popcorn, 2tr, ss to beg ch-3.
FPtr, 2htr in next st, FPtr around FP st, ss to top Round 25 As Round 2.
of beg ch-2. Round 26 Ch3, 2tr, (3-popcorn, 3tr) rep to last
[80 (84: 88: 92: 96: 100: 104) sts, 28 (30: 32: 34: st, 3-popcorn, ss to beg ch-3.
36: 38: 40) sts Front/Back, 12 sts Sleeves] Round 27 Ch3, (3-popcorn, 3tr) rep to last 3 sts,
Rep Round 2 another 15 (17: 19: 21: 23: 25: 27) 3-popcorn, 2tr, ss to beg ch-3.
times. [204 (220: 240: 260: 280: 300: 320) sts, 60 Round 28 Ch2, skip next st, (htr2tog) rep
(66: 70: 76: 82: 88: 94) sts Front/Back, 42 (46: 50: around, ss to beg ch-2.
54: 58: 62: 66) sts Sleeves] [24 (26: 28: 30: 32: 34: 36) sts]
Change to a 6mm hook.
BODY Round 29 Ch3, tr in each st around, ss to beg
Round 1 (RS) Ch2, 59 (65: 69: 75: 81: 87: 93) htr, ch-3.
ch6, skip next 42 (46: 50: 54: 58: 62: 66) sts, 60 Round 30 Ch2, FPtr around next st, (BPtr
(66: 70: 76: 82: 88: 94) htr, ch6, skip next 42 (46: around next st, FPtr around next st) rep around, The raglan sleeve ‘seam’ effect is created with
50: 54: 58: 62: 66) sts, ss to beg ch-2. ss to beg ch-2. front post stitches while working the yoke
[132 (144: 152: 164: 176: 188: 200) sts] Round 31 As Round 30.
Round 2 Ch2, htr in each st around, ss to top of Fasten off.
beg ch-2.
Rep Round 2 until Sweater measures 48.5 (51: TO MAKE UP
53.5: 56: 58.5: 61: 63.5)cm. Weave in ends and block to given
Fasten off. measurements.
SLEEVES (MAKE 2)
With RS facing and using a 7mm hook, join yarn
in third ch of ch-6 sp at underarm.
Round 1 (RS) Ch2, htr in each ch and st around
armhole opening, ss to beg ch-2.
[48 (52: 56: 60: 64: 68: 72) sts]
SAV
Round 2 (RS) Ch2, htr in each st around, ss to
top of beg ch-2. S LU
Rounds 3-15 As Round 2.
Round 16 Ch3, (5-popcorn, 3tr) rep to last 3 sts, For a more budget-friendly make, try Wendy
5-popcorn, 2tr, ss to beg ch-3. Supreme Chunky: 7 (8: 9: 10: 11: 12: 13) balls
Rounds 17-18 As Round 2. of Lavender (SK06). Check hook size, tension
Round 19 Ch3, 2tr, (5-popcorn, 3tr) rep to last and ball length if you use a different yarn.
st, 5-popcorn, ss to beg ch-3. For yarn stockists contact
Rounds 20-21 Ch2, htr in each st around, ss to www.wendywools.com The back, front and upper parts of the sleeves
beg st. are worked in the round as one piece
1 Identify the post of the stitch 2 Work the rest of the stitch as 3 Work yrh again and pull the 4 You’ll see how the stitch is
indicated. Then work yrh (as you usually would for a treble, yarn through the first 2 loops. raised up, compared to the
usual for a treble stitch) and so yrh and carefully pull the Yrh and pull the yarn through rest of the fabric.
insert hook into the front of loop of yarn out of the fabric the remaining 2 loops to
the fabric, around the back of – it should loop around the complete the stitch.
the post, and bring out hook post of the stitch.
on other side of post.
WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET 43
COLOUR RUSH CHUNKY
Bursting with colour this beautiful contrasting
premium acrylic yarn is ideal for chunky accessories,
homewares and eye-catching clothing. Creating
a stunning defined stripe effect when worked up,
this yarn is versatile and fully machine washable.
Available in an array of vibrant colourways.
NEW
1,000s of free
patterns
Step-by-step
tutorials Discover easy-to-follow
Video guides patterns and tutorials for
crochet, knitting, sewing,
quilting, papercraft and
stitching with the brand
new website for makers
everywhere.
make
the whole
set!
a christmas carol
Maria Jęczmyk’s fun finger puppets celebrate the
traditions and characters of Polish carol singers
WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET 45
Little ones will have a ball with this set of cute
A IT puppets. Many countries have a tradition of
T IC Y carol singers, but not many arrive in disguise!
4PLY 2.5MM
WEIGHT HOOK
NOTES
Parts of this pattern are worked using the
amigurumi method. Work stitches continuously
YOU WILL NEED in a spiral without closing off each round with a
QScheepjes Catona slip stitch. It may help to use a stitch marker in
(100% cotton, 10g/25m) the first stitch of each round, moving it up as
2 balls of Snow White (106) you work.
1 ball of each: Embroider details when instructed, rather than
Hot Red (115) waiting until the end.
Jet Black (110) Refer to the images when joining parts
Light Silver (172) together.
Cornflower (511)
Sweet Mandarin (523) DEATH PUPPET
Sweet Orange (411) PUPPET
Hazelnut (503) Using Snow White, ch2.
QA 2.5mm (US B/1 or C/2) hook Round 1 (RS) 6dc in second ch from hook.
QA stitch marker [6 sts]
QA small bell Round 2 (RS) 2dc in each st around. [12 sts]
QWooden skewer Round 3 (1dc in next st, 2dc in next st) 6 times. The angel puppet features curly hair and a
For yarn stockists contact [18 sts] halo, both worked in bright orange yarn
Scheepjes Round 4 Dc in each st around.
www.scheepjes.com/en Rounds 5-9 As Round 4.
Change to Jet Black. chs**, ch4, rep from * to **, (ss in next 3 ch) rep
TENSION Round 10 As Round 4. to end.
Tension is not critical, but it may Using Jet Black, embroider eye sockets, nose Fasten off.
affect the yarn quantities required and mouth. Sew to Round 14 at back.
Change to Snow White.
MEASUREMENTS Rounds 11-20 As Round 4. ANGEL PUPPET
Puppets measure approx 8cm (3¼in) Using Jet Black, embroider ribs. PUPPET
tall Rounds 21-23 As Round 4, ss to next st. Using Sweet Mandarin, ch2.
Fasten off. Round 1 (RS) 6dc in second ch from hook.
ABBREVIATIONS [6 sts]
reverse dc Insert hook in next st to SCYTHE BLADE (MAKE 2) Round 2 (RS) 2dc in each st around. [12 sts]
right (or left if left-handed), yrh and Using Light Silver, ch13. Round 3 (1dc in next st, 2dc in next st) 6 times.
pull up a loop, yrh and pull through Row 1 Dc in second ch from hook, dc in next 8 [18 sts]
2 loops on hook chs, dc2tog, turn leaving last ch unworked. Round 4 Dc in each st around.
picot Ch3, ss in last ch from hook Row 2 Ch1, dc2tog, dc in each st to en. Rounds 5-11 As Round 4.
For a full list, see page 78 Fasten off the first piece only. Using Cornflower, embroider eyes.
Dc around both pieces to join and attach to a Using Hot Red, embroider a mouth.
skewer. Change to Snow White.
it of DEVIL PUPPET
Rounds 12-16 As Round 4.
Round 17 Dc in bl of each st around.
46 WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET
Round 5) 11 times, (ch3, dc in same st as last dc, HAIR AND CROWN
dc in next 2 sts) 3 times, ch3, dc in same st as Using Hazelnut, ch2.
last dc, ss in next st. Round 1 6dc in second ch from hook (6 sts]
Fasten off. Round 2 2dc in each st around. [12 sts]
Sew Hair to top of head. Round 3 (1dc in next st, 2dc in next st) 6 times.
[18 sts]
HALO Round 4 Dc in bl of each st around.
Using Snow White, ch2 (leaving a 15cm beg Round 5 Dc in each st around.
tail). Continue in rows.
Round 1 (RS) 6dc in second ch from hook. Row 6 12dc, turn,
[6 sts] Row 7 Ch1, 12dc.
Round 2 2dc in each st around. [12 sts] Fasten off.
Round 3 (1dc in next st, 2dc in next st) 6 times. Attach Sweet Orange to any fl of Round 3.
[18 sts] Round 8 Ch1, 2dc, (picot, 3dc) 5 times, picot,
Round 4 (Dc in next 2 sts, 2dc in next st) 6 1dc, ss in first st. Embroider facial features on each puppet –
times. [24 sts] Fasten off. vary the style to match the character
Change to Sweet Orange. Sew Hair and Crown to top of head.
Round 5 (Dc in next 3 sts, 2dc in next st) 6
times, ss in next st. [30 sts] PUPPET CONTINUED Round 12 Ch1, dc in next 13 sts, ch5, skip lip sts.
Fasten off. Continue with Cornflower. Cont in rows to make second lip.
Sew Halo to Hair. Round 11 Dc in bl of next 5 sts, dc in next 9 sts, Row 13 Dc in next 13 sts, dc in fl of next 5 ch,
dc in bl of next 4 sts. [18 sts] turn. [18 sts]
WINGS (MAKE 2) Rounds 12-23 Dc in each st around. Row 14 Ch1, dc in next 5 sts, turn. [5 sts]
Using Snow White, ch6. Fasten off. Row 15 Ch1, dc2tog, 1dc, dc2tog, turn. [3 sts]
Row 1 Dc in second ch from hook, dc in next 3 Row 16 Ch1, dc3tog. [1 st]
chs, 3dc in last ch, turn and work on opposite COAT Fasten off.
side of foundation ch, 3dc, 2dc in last ch, turn. Join Hot Red in first unworked fl of Round 10. Using Jet Black, embroider eyes.
[12 sts] Row 1 Ch1, 9dc, turn. [9 sts] Join Hazelnut in first unworked loop of Row 13.
Row 2 Ch1, 2dc in first st, dc in 4 next sts, 2dc in Rows 2-3 Ch1, dc across, turn. Cont in rounds.
next 3 sts, dc in next 4 sts, turn. [16 sts] Row 4 Ch1, 2dc in first st, dc in each st to final st, Round 17 Dc in 13 sts, dc in bl of next 5 ch from
Row 3 Ch1, dc in first 4 sts, (2dc in next, 1dc) 3 2dc in final st, turn. [11 sts] Round 12.
times, dc in next 5 sts, 2dc in last st. [20 sts] Rows 5-6 As Row 2. Round 18 Dc in each st around.
Fasten off. Row 7 As Row 4. [13 sts] Round 19 Dc in bl of each st around.
Sew to back of Angel Puppet. Rows 8-10 As Row 2. Rounds 20-30 Dc in each st around.
Fasten off. Fasten off.
KING HEROD PUPPET
PUPPET EDGING TONGUE
Using Sweet Mandarin, ch2. Join Snow White in any st from final row. Using Hot Red, ch5.
Round 1 6dc in second ch from hook (6 sts] Round 1 Ch1, (dc in each st to corner, 3dc in Row 1 (RS) Dc in second ch from hook, dc in
Round 2 2dc in each st around. [12 sts] corner, dc in each row-end to next corner, 3dc next 2 ch, 3dc in last ch, turn to work down
Round 3 (1dc in next st, 2dc in next st) 6 times. in corner; reo from * once more, dc in each st to opposite side of foundation ch, dc in next 3 ch.
[18 sts] end, ss to beg dc. Fasten off.
Round 4 Dc in each st around. Round 2 Ch1, reverse dc in each st around, ss to Sew Tongue inside muzzle.
Rounds 5-7 As Round 4. beg dc.
Round 8 Dc in first 6 sts, dc bl of next 6 sts, dc Fasten off. Weave in ends. COLLAR
in next 6 sts. Join Hot Red in fl of Round 12 at front, leaving a
Rounds 9-10 As Round 4, change to TUROŃ PUPPET 15cm tail.
Cornflower. PUPPET Round 1 Ss in each st around.
Place live loop on marker. Using Hazelnut, ch2. Fasten off, leaving a 15 cm tail.
Beard, Hair, Crown and eyes are worked before Round 1 6dc in second ch from hook [6 sts] Attach bell to one tail, then tie tails with a knot.
finishing the Puppet. Round 2 2dc in each st around. [12 sts]
Round 3 (1dc in next st, 2dc in next st) 6 times. HORNS (MAKE 2)
BEARD [18 sts] Using Jet Black, work as Devil’s Horns.
Join Hazelnut in first unworked fl of Round 7. Round 4 Dc in each st around.
Row 1 Dc in 6 sts, turn. [6 sts] Rounds 5-7 As Round 4.
Row 2 Ch1, 1dc, ch4, skip 4 sts, dc in last st, turn. Cont in rows to make first lip.
[2 sts, 1 ch-4 sp] Row 8 Dc in first 11 sts, turn.
Row 3 Ch1, dc in each st and ch across, turn. Row 9 Ch1, 5dc, turn, [5 sts]
[6 sts] Row 10 Ch1, dc2tog, dc, dc2tog, turn. [3 sts]
Row 4 Ch1, dc2tog, 2dc, dc2tog, turn. [4 sts] Row 11 Ch1, dc3tog. [1 st]
Row 5 Ch1, (dc2tog) twice. [2 sts] Fasten off.
Fasten off. Cont on in rounds.
Using Hazelnut, embroider eyes. Join Hazelnut to first unworked st of Round 7.
WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET 47
GOOD READ
wild wonderlands
Artist Cait McCormack stretches the boundaries of fine art using crochet, and reveals
through many exhibitions that there are no limits to crochet’s imaginative possibilities
ait McCormack’s ‘Souvenirs of the says Cait. “She’d challenge me to do a lost,” Cait admits. “Immediately after I
48 WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET
GOOD READ
you want and encompasses an infinite intersection of collage and painting.” they come together for a show. “I use my
range of possibilities. “Recently I’ve been Cait began teaching workshops in 2017 background in illustration to create an
making effigies and uncanny simulacra. and lectures at many institutions. Their love inventory list of thumbnails, and consider
Crochet is almost cellular. I love the of teaching was prompted during an how the pieces correspond with each other.
elasticity, both creatively and physically.” exhibition at one of the oldest medical If I have a wild idea, I have to go out on a limb
Recurring themes show up in Cait’s work. museums in the country. “During ‘Tracing and hope it works first time,” they say. “I
“The skeletons revolve around grief and the Remains’, my exhibition with an artist might have a year and a half to create an
trauma – each piece records particular entire body of work.”
memories. Because I grew up in the woods, Cait has held recent exhibitions at
animals represent moments in my life. “due to sexism, ageism and ‘Souvenirs of the Wasteland’ at Elijah Wheat
Sometimes I want to represent something
absurd, angry, or even funny, introducing classism there’s a bias Showroom, VOX XIX: Vox Populi’s 19th
Juried Exhibition in Philadelphia, ‘Plantasia’
more colour to explore these facets.”
More recent interests include gender and
against crochet which i want at Commonweal Gallery in Philadelphia and
‘Conversation Pit’ at The Yard in Brooklyn,
work actively exploring how crochet is to address and dismantle” NY. Cait was also an artist in residence at the
perceived. “Crochet exists in the gap Provincetown Dune Shacks, Massachusetts.
Photos: portrait ©Chris Carreon; Souvenirs of the Wasteland @ Alex Yudzon;
Dirty Mirror @ Jaime Alvarez; Canyon and self-portrait @Caitlin McCormack
between craft and fine art.” named Sabrina Small, exploring memory, In short, there’s a lot going on!
trauma, and human bodily specimens, I led “I’ve lived in Philadelphia for half my life,”
EMBRACING ENVIRONMENT CRAFTIVISM a Philly Touch Tour lecture for visually- Cait says. “I can travel to New York or escape
Currently, Cait is exploring ideas around impaired museum attendees, which to the woods. There’s a huge state park in
ecology, crocheting “plant-animal hybrids included crocheted pieces they could Philly that runs all the way along a creek,
that may eventually walk the earth” as a touch. The experience was really rewarding.” similar to the forest where I grew up.”
form of environmental activism, and Cait has won prestigious awards It’s clear that nature and art merge for Cait
comments, “We’re facing a wide variety of including the Maurice Freed Memorial Prize, and the stories they need to share with the
apocalyptic issues, and I’m expanding but says their greatest pleasures stem from world. Crochet is just the magic ingredient.
crochet into something that can be used to the success of individual artworks and how Written by Judy Darley
represent this.” As a vegan, Cait uses only
plant-based yarns and favours second-hand
and antique cotton, hemp and linen. “The
colours in synthetic yarns are tempting, but
A few of their favourite things
When Cait puts down her hook…
the more naturally-derived the better. I love
“I go for a lot of long walks. That’s like my only hobby. I love
how the age-stained white or ochre
spending time in nature, or at home with my cat, Canyon. I also
gradations in natural fibres impacts the final
like to cook food for my partner and loved ones – I prepare vegan
product. My process can feel like painting.
dishes with heaps of vegetables and herbs.”
The 3D sculptures and wall-mountable
Visit https://www.caitlintmccormack.com @mister_caitlin on Instagram
fibre-paintings pieces I’ve made are a weird
WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET 49
Block party
These two lovelies will give you a great
headstart on those Christmas gifts
perfect
winter
present
HAT AND SHAWL SET
WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET 51
fes t i ve
fu n !
Ho ho ho!
Give a plain top a seasonal makeover with
super Santa motifs. By Sara Huntington
WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET 53
EMBELLISH A JUMPER
1 Yrh twice and insert the 2 Yrh and pull the yarn 3 Yrh and pull the yarn 4 Yrh and pull the yarn
hook under the top 2 loops of through the first 2 loops only through the first 2 loops only through the remaining 2
the stitch indicated. Yrh and (3 loops on hook). (2 loops on hook). loops. There’s your double
draw through the stitch only treble made and you’ll have
(4 loops on hook). 1 loop left on your hook ready
to do the next stitch.
54 WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET
takE 1,000s oF
PatteRns wHereveR
You go!
*
Search for Simply Crochet on
your chosen app store
Available on Apple,
Google Play, Zinio and Nook
iPad is a trademark of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. App Store
is a service mark of Apple Inc. NOOK is a registered trademark of Barnes & Noble,
Inc. NOOK Tablet is a trademark of Barnes & Noble Inc. *Free trial is for new users on
annual subscriptions only. Cancel at any point during the trial to avoid being charged.
Free trial not available on Zinio.
*
CROCHET-ALONG
For
Decorate your at
www.blacksheepwools.com
home with use the code WYSCL
0U_V`aZN`PUà_
at the checkout
Offer is for all shades of WYS ColourLab DK
and ends 6 January 2025
56 WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET
CROCHET-ALONG
BORDER
With RS facing, join Arctic White in top-right
corner.
Round 1 (RS) Ch1, dc in each st across, ch1, turn
to work down side, (dc in next 3 row-ends, 2dc
in next row-end) 9 times, dc in last 2 row-ends, Square 3: there are five different designs –
ch1, turn to work across bottom, dc in each st make five of each to make up the blanket
across, ch1, turn to work up side, (dc in next 3
row-ends, 2dc in next row-end) 9 times, dc in
last 2 row-ends, ch1, ss to beg st. [188 dc] SQUARE 3 (MAKE 5)
Round 2 Ch1, *dc in each st to ch-1 sp, (dc, ch1, Using Deep Teal, ch48.
dc) in ch-1 sp; rep from * around, ss to beg st. Row 1 (RS) Htr in second ch from hook, htr in
SAV [196 dc] each ch across, turn. [47 htr]
S LU Fasten off and weave in ends. Row 2 (WS) Ch1, htr in each st across, turn.
Rows 3-4 Ch1, 23htr, change to Cerise Pink, 1htr,
For a more budget-friendly make, try SQUARE 2 (MAKE 5) change to Deep Teal, 23htr, turn.
Yarnsmiths Create DK, 5 balls of White Using Arctic White, ch48. Rows 5-38 Cont in patt set, using the Chart for
(3040), 3 balls of each: Sapphire Blue (3305), Row 1 (RS) Htr in second ch from hook, htr in all colour changes.
Fandango Pink (3372), Sugar Plum (3335), each ch across, turn. [47 htr] Fasten off.
Tropical Teal, 1 ball of Primrose Yellow (3160) Rows 2-4 Ch1, 23htr, change to Deep Teal, 1htr, Work Border as Square 1.
Check hook size, tension and ball length change to Arctic White, 23htr, turn.
if you use a different yarn Rows 5-38 Cont in patt set, using the Chart for
For yarn stockists contact all colour changes.
www.woolwarehouse.co.uk Fasten off.
Work Border as Square 1.
WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET 57
STORAGE BASKET
try
tunisian
crochet
Hanging out
Display two or three of your little one’s best friends in a
stylish super chunky basket. Designed by Laura Strutt
58 WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET
STORAGE BASKET
1 After working the 2 Yrh and pull a loop of yarn 3 You will now have 2 loops on 4 On the last stitch of the row,
foundation row, have the RS through the vertical strand the hook. Repeat from * in insert hook under front and
facing you. Skip the vertical and onto the hook. step 1, inserting hook under back of outside loop. Yrh and
strand on the outside edge of the next vertical strand across pull through as before, to
the work and *insert the hook the row, except for the last create a firm edge. Now work
from right to left under the strand on the outside edge of the standard Return Pass to
second vertical strand of yarn the work. complete one row of Tunisian
on the row below. simple stitch (Tss).
WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET 59
GOOD READ
Wrap up Christmas!
If you think it’s too late to start planning your Christmas crochet projects, think
again! Read on to find out why this is the perfect time to get going
60 WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET
GOOD READ
Make super
stocking filler
gifts (p64)
N
ow’s the time to start, if you’ve been and it’s a way to get the kids involved, too. A weekends, so you may only have two or three
thinking you would like to hook up couple of tiny gift tag snowflakes won’t take out of every seven evenings to play with. Be
some gorgeous crocheted goodies long, and they’ll add a super handmade touch realistic and make your list to suit.
for Christmas gifts but haven’t quite got to carefully wrapped presents. Another Even for those who appreciate your time
around to it. While you don’t want to be option is to add motifs to cards for an and trouble, not everyone needs gifts that
hooking in a panic when you should be extra-special gift package. Traditional motifs take weeks to crochet. Stick to one or two
celebrating, crocheting in the lead-up to such as Christmas tree, holly and snowman larger projects, be realistic about what you
Christmas can be a wonderful way to spend shapes work well, or raid half-done projects can take on, and plan to include plenty of
your time. Think of it as a way to fit in a bit of for graphic motifs that will look contemporary. small WIPs in between bigger projects.
relaxation – and you’ll be making gifts at Decorations or jewellery that you can finish
the same time. It’s a win-win! GET ORGANISED in under an hour or so are perfect. If you know
Deciding on what you want to make, and who someone is getting a new coat, you could
FIRST THINGS FIRST deserves the fruits of your crochet labours at make them a brooch to go with it. Other quick
Whether you can dedicate a lot of time to the start of the process is a good way to get and easy projects include potholders, phone
making or just a little, spending some time organised. There’s no point in slaving over a cosies (see page 64), coasters and face
planning at the start of the process is well beautiful, intricate project for weeks to give to scrubbies. Make up some folders or small bags
worth it. Ask yourself if you really want to someone who just won’t appreciate it. Save for each item containing the yarn, pattern and
make gifts, or is this the year you would prefer your efforts for those who do! hook so you can grab one on your way out of
to crochet some decorations for your home? If Creating gifts for Christmas works best the door. Train journeys, picking up the kids
that’s what you would like, don’t feel guilty when you know exactly what you want to do. and sitting in waiting rooms all provide small
about it – other people will love to see them. Make a list of what you want to make and who pockets of otherwise wasted time; you’ll be
Take a look at our stunning monochrome for, estimate how much time each project will surprised at how much you can achieve.
designs on page 14 for inspiration. take and put them in some kind of order. We’d
If you’re doubting whether you will really recommend you intersperse larger projects SORT YOUR SUPPLIES
have the time to crochet anything much, think with smaller ones to give your hands a break, Remember to buy your yarn requirements
about making an addition to an item, rather give your brain a change of scene and keep up well in advance, as if something is out of stock,
than making a large project. Making crochet the motivation. there will still be time to reassess. If a particular
chains or even simply using leftover sparkly Don’t forget to allow for social events colour is out of stock, can you find another in
yarn are fun ways to tie up presents rather ramping up this time of year; school plays and the same range that will work as well? If not,
than using ribbons and bows. Pompoms are concerts, shopping, Christmas markets, work and especially if the yarn is an unusual weight
another easy idea for zhuzhing up wrapping, parties and so on can eat up evenings and or composition, don’t be afraid to change the
WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET 61
GOOD READ
These
antlers
appeared
in issue 143
Christmas
Countdown
EIGHT WEEKS TO GO
Fast crocheter? You
might just make it! Decide on your patterns,
Turn to page 26 gather your yarn and make your
list. There’s lots of inspiration in this
issue, and you’ll find tons more in back
issues, in next issue (on sale 26 November),
and at www.gathered.how
pattern you wanted to make entirely, rather the sofa with a hot chocolate (or a mulled
Think about ways to save time. Do you
than try to substitute a yarn which may not wine!), perhaps with your significant other
have a favourite scarf or hat pattern? Go
work as well. For smaller items, don’t forget and the children.
ahead and hook one for everyone in
about your stash. Sort through it to see if there Lastly, don’t put too much pressure on
different shades.
are weights and colours you’d like to use, and yourself! It’s not the end of the world if you
be creative – Christmas decorations come in don’t get something finished in time. Work
all kinds of colours these days, you don’t have out where you are with all the gifts you’d like FOUR WEEKS TO GO
to stick to the traditional red, white and green. to make every couple of weeks so that you Fingerless mitts in chunky yarn work
Even small amounts of metallics can be used have time to buy something instead, if it looks up fast for extra gifts.
as trims. If you don’t have enough to crochet like you’re not going to finish. There are lots of Time for some amigurumi. Try our
around your tree decs, consider embroidery. craft fairs on this time of the year, too – you can cute elf (page 31) or the Nutcracker set
A simple running stitch made around an edge always get into the Christmas spirit and give patterns with issue 154.
is effective, or a length of yarn (or thread) can someone else’s craft making a boost. In the
be caught with a stitch at regular intervals to event you find yourself with extra moments ONE WEEK TO GO
form a scalloped edge. You’ll both be making you can always make more; you might even fit Use the letters from our yarn review
space (for yarny gifts?) and saving money. in crafting something for yourself! series to make personalised table
Whether you’re buying new supplies in Remember too, that most of the time the settings or glass charms for parties and
your local shop or online, try to make just one recipient doesn’t even know they were going the big day.
order and stick to what you need. It will save to get something special. It’s your decision Finish off any projects that still need
you time and money travelling into town, or what to give them. Even if they do know, their ends weaving in, blocking or
potentially lots of postage costs. taking the option of giving them a small gift to pressing to show them at their best.
open with an IOU for their crochet gift, is a
CHRISTMAS SPIRIT good way to alleviate the stress. CHRISTMAS EVE
It’s important to find ways to make it fun – this If you do make it through and get your gifts Sort out any last-minute wrapping,
is supposed to be a time to enjoy yourself! made and wrapped in time, it is worth all the write any IOUs, then organise them all
Watching Christmas films while working your effort when you see the look on someone’s ready for the morning.
way through your list can make things face when they open their special handmade Put your feet up, you deserve it!
magical, especially if you can snuggle up on gift. And it’s all down to you.
62 WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET
C
father christmas
beard (yes really)
sparkly scarf
crochet-along blanket
gingerbread house
baby overalls
& much more
ON SALE 29 OCTOBER
PHONE CASE
great
stocking
fillers!
64 WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET
PHONE CASE
1 Use a pin to mark the 2 Push the needle back 3 Take yarn to the front of the 4 Take the yarn to the back of
position of the button, lining through the button and the fabric, but under button and the fabric and weave in end to
up with the buttonhole. fabric, pulling the yarn firmly. NOT through button. Wrap secure.
Secure yarn on WS of fabric Bring the needle out through yarn round twice, pull yarn
and thread onto tapestry the fabric and button, and tight (to create a shank and
needle. Bring needle out at pin back down again. prevent fraying).
mark and through button.
WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET 65
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yarn
R wss
Reevviieew 02
01
T is for . . .
twinkle
It’s party time here with sparkly, shimmering and
sequinned fibres, just right for upping the wow factor
05
03
06
04
Join our
alphabet C AL!
‘T’ PATTERN ROW 3 Ch3, dc in second ch from The leftover yarns from this yarn review
will be donated to Knit for Peace. Learn
Ch9. hook, dc in next ch, dc in side of more at www.knitforpeace.org.uk and
ROW 1 (RS) Dc in second ch from last dc from Row 1, dc in next 2 ch go to www.gathered.how for more yarn
hook, dc in next 5 ch, leave last from foundation ch. [5 dc] donation ideas.
2 ch unworked. [6 dc] FASTEN OFF and weave in ends.
68 WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET
YARN REVIEWS
Part of the popular Ricorumi and matt textures. It combines For more sophisticated shimmer, with a shiny side in one shade
range, this has the same familiar happily with any of the Ricorumi this beautiful yarn is a joy to work and a matt side in another. The
softness, easy hooking and clear shades and it’s perfect for with and wear. The silky, smooth flashes of metallic sheen create
stitch definition, but with an festive amigurumi, but don’t lengths have a clever chainette a unique texture in your fabric
extra touch of glimmer! The stop there – it will work wonders construction, which means it’s a that’s almost hypnotic, and
glittery strand twisted around with decorations, accessories dream to work with and won’t perfect for glam accessories and
each of the 10 shades ends up and more. Machine wash at 30˚C split. Ten colourways are on offer, garments. Gentle machine wash
scattered across your fabric to (mild) and air dry. each with an unusual two-tone at 30˚C and dry naturally.
create an intriguing mix of shiny www.rico-design.de contrast of colours and textures, www.lovecrafts.com
This yarn will inspire you to fuzz create an understated glow A dazzling must-have for every beautifully. It’s a great choice
reach for the stars with your that will bring elegance to your yarn-lover’s stash! The Simply for a holiday jumper or cardi
makes, confident that the fabric garments and accessories. It Soft range is known for feeling that will be stylish enough to
you hook will shine out from the comes in eight shades with wonderful next to your skin and wear all year round. There are
crowd. Light and bouncy, the cosmic names, which would this iridescent version feels just nine shades and the easy-care
touchable lengths feel plump look great arranged into stripes. as luxurious. It’s as easy to hook fibres mean you can pop it in
and squishable, flowing easily Machine wash on a mild 30˚C as any standard acrylic yarn, but the machine on a gentle 40˚C
across your hook. The soft stitch cycle and air dry flat. the extra metallic strand creates wash and tumble dry on low.
definition and superfine gold www.kingcole.com a fabric that reflects the light www.yarnspirations.com
This beautiful sequinned yarn purses to decorations to You can imagine this yarn tweedy look. It will slide joyfully
will really make projects twinkle! cardigans. The finished fabric putting on its gladrags and over your hook and into cosy,
The glitzy acrylic base has been is light and warm with a delicate going out to The Ritz! The chunky accessories like hats and
‘Strictly-fied’ even more with drape. Mix and match it with a upgrade has added strands gloves with a huge wow factor.
little sequins placed every 25cm plain acrylic DK or use it for of polyester that sparkle as it Six shades are available, each
or so, which looks gorgeous in edgings, fringes and tassels. moves, while maintaining a one coordinating well with its
all three shades (Red, Silver and Machine washable on a gentle deliciously soft feel. Not content sister ranges. Machine washable
Gold). Relax and hook it into any 30˚C cycle and dry naturally. just to glisten, there’s also subtle at 30˚C and leave to dry flat.
star-studded project, from www.hobbycraft.co.uk colour variation that creates a www.cygnetyarns.com
WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET 69
Join our gang of Treble Makers and share your thoughts and makes with us,
for a chance to be featured here, use our hashtag #Sctreblemaker
DRESS UP U L TA
IN STYLE
Reader Kelly Parker
We’ve been double tapping on
Instagram and admiring your makes.
had been searching Tag us @simplycrochetmag and use
for a straightforward the hashtag #SCtreblemaker
dress pattern to
crochet for a while, SELFIE HEAVEN
as she’d mostly Doesn’t Megan
Wallace’s new top
made accessories,
look good? Aka
homewares and toys @m.w.contour, Megan
up until she found used James C Brett’s
Cassie Ward’s Granny Marble Chunky, and
Dress in issue 152. we are here for these
We think you’ve fresh candy shades.
done a great job
Kelly, your stitches READY TO GO
are so neat and even. Natalie Hodgson (aka
@nataliemakesand
Your first crochet
keep it in dress looks fab!
bakes) loved the
beginner-friendly
nature of our baby
MADE TO ORDER
make. To-do to ta-da!
FRIENDS TOGETHER
Sue Drew used squares from 50 Granny Squares and Amelia Clark, aka
@ameliaclark84,
Motifs, published for Granny Square Day 2021, for
made the Peter Rabbit
her bags. She made backs to match the fronts and set for her cousin,
used up lots of scrap yarn, including sparkly yarn who was having a
for the stars. Sue lined them in cotton and loved baby. She loves these
making the octopus squares. They were made to patterns and will be
order for a friend – we’re sure she’s delighted. making more as gifts.
70 WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET
ALL’S WOOL
THAT ENDS WOOL
Alison Higgins hooked up this sweet
little Welsh lamb with his jaunty
daffodil for her Welsh husband, who
named him Minty – ewe herd it
here first! The lamb pattern,
designed by Jo Bunclark,
is from issue 150.
NOW IN ITUNES
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SIMPLY KNITTING
Tweet us @SimplyCrochet_
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The digital version of the magazine does not include the cover gift that you
would find on newsstand copies.
g a
crochet
Un avveelllleed
nrra ith
Becky Skuse
01 02 03
72 WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET
a
why can treble t-chs differ?
Here’s how tension makes a difference...
Let’s say that you’re making rows of treble stitches and you’re your chains and/or slightly tighten your stitches. For Example 2
doing your turning chains just how you’re supposed to, (loose t-ch and tighter stitches) you’d slightly tighten your
following our table (left) and making 3 chains at the start of chains and/or slightly loosen your stitches.
each row. For some reason, the ends of your rows or rounds Step 5 If you’re not able to adjust your yarn tension between
don’t look quite right. That’s because your yarn tension can your turning chain lengths and your stitches, don’t worry. It’s
vary between making chains and making stitches. Here’s how: okay to adjust the length of your turning chain to suit your
Step 1 Example 1: A ch-3 turning chain made with tight tension... stitches. So, for Example 1 (tight t-ch and looser stitches) you
Step 2 ...will look too short for stitches made with a looser could make 4 tight chains instead of 3 and see how this looks.
tension, and create a row that slopes upwards at the start, Step 6 Or for Example 2 (loose t-ch and tighter stitches) you could
which can pucker your fabric – and make it hard to work into try making 2 loose chains instead of 3 and see how this looks.
that chain on the next row. (This explains why you might see an independent pattern
Step 3 Example 2: A ch-3 turning chain made with loose instructing you to ‘chain 2’ in the turning chain for treble stitches
tension will look too big for stitches made with a tighter instead of ‘chain 3’ – 2 loose chains will measure about the same
tension, and create a row that slopes downwards at the start, length as 3 standard chains.)
which can create flaring in your fabric. Tip Whatever the length of your turning chain, the main aim is for
Step 4 In an ideal world, you’d be able to adjust your yarn the hook to get to the height YOU need for YOUR stitches. But
tension (tighter or looser) between your turning chain lengths remember, if you’re following a pattern where the stitch tension is
and your stitches to create a more consistent look. For very important, then make sure you’re matching that tension first,
Example 1 (tight t-ch and looser stitches) you’d slightly loosen before you make any alterations to turning chain lengths.
01 02 03
04 05 06
Let Becky solve your hooky conundrums! Don’t miss the next
Crochet Unravelled aims to dive deep into the techniques, tutorials and terminology that workshop… Learn
will make you a better hookster. Have you got a question you want Becky to unravel? how add simple
Send it in to us at [email protected] embroidery to your
crochet fabric
WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET 73
I F T S! ONLY
G EAS
ID
TAST
ES SIMPLY £6.99
Incl. UK p&p
This Christmas, our ultimate festive gift pack is bigger than ever! Get your bumper
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Cover image: Corina Andrisca, Unsplash. The Royals; © Chris Jackson, Getty Images. Food cover profiteroles: © Simon Smith, from Plants Only Holidays by Gaz Oakley, published by Quadrille.
YOUR GUIDE
SCAN ME
Learn more online!
Crochet essentials
Over the next few pages, you’ll find simple step-by-step guides to many useful
stitches and techniques that you’ll use every time you pick up a hook
1 Hold the tail of the ball of 2 Hold the loop between left 3 Catch the ball end of the 4 Pull both ends of the yarn to
yarn in your left hand and thumb and forefinger, then yarn with the hook and pull it tighten the knot, then pull just
drape the yarn clockwise over insert the crochet hook back through the centre of the the ball end to tighten the
the top of it to form a loose, through the centre of the loop loop, taking the yarn through loop so it’s close to the hook,
circular loop. from front to back. with it. but not touching it.
CHAIN STITCH Use this stitch to make your foundation chain How to count chains
1
9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2
WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET 75
YOUR GUIDE
1 You can make a slip stitch in 2 Catch the ball end of the 3 Gently pull the hook, and 4 This will finish the stitch and
any chain or stitch, to join it to yarn with the hook, so the the yarn wrapped around it, you’ll see how the slip stitch
the working loop on the hook. yarn wraps anticlockwise back towards the 2 loops on has joined the working loop
To make a slip stitch, simply around it (yarn round hook, the hook. Draw the yarn to the chain or stitch you
insert the hook into the stitch or yrh). through both the loops on inserted the hook into. You
indicated, from front to back. the hook. can also use slip stitch to form
a neat edging.
1 To make a double crochet 2 Wind the yarn around the 3 Pull the yarn through the 4 Yarn round hook again, then
stitch, insert the hook under hook (yrh). stitch, giving you 2 loops on pull the yarn through both
the top 2 loops of the next your crochet hook. loops. There’s your double
stitch on the previous row. crochet made and you’ll have
one loop left on the hook,
ready to do the next stitch.
1 To make a half treble crochet 2 Insert the hook under the 3 Pull the yarn through the 4 Yarn round hook again, pull
stitch, work to where you top 2 loops of the next stitch stitch only (3 loops on hook). the yarn through all 3 loops.
want the htr and then wind in the previous row. Wrap yarn You’ve made a half treble
the yarn round the hook (yrh). around the hook again (yrh). crochet. Continue working htr
into next and following sts to
the end of the row.
76 WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET
YOUR GUIDE
1 To work a treble crochet, 2 Wrap the yarn around the 3 You will now have 3 loops on 4 You will now have 2 loops
start by winding yrh and then hook (yrh) and pull the yarn the hook. Yrh again, and draw on the hook. Yrh again and
insert the hook under the top through the stitch only. the yarn through just the first draw the yarn through the
2 loops of the stitch on the 2 loops on the hook. remaining loops on the
previous row. hook. Your treble crochet
is complete.
1 The first row is made by 2 For the next row, first make 1 Make a foundation ring and 2 Finish the treble, as usual
working across the the turning chain for the stitch work the t-ch (3ch for treble (yrh, pull yarn through ring,
foundation chain from right to you’re about to work (see sts). Work a treble st as usual, yrh, pull yarn through first
left. At the end of the chain or opposite). Now work the next but insert hook into centre of 2 loops, yrh, pull yarn through
row, turn the work so that the stitch into the top of the ring. For treble sts, yrh, insert 2 loops). Work more sts into
yarn is behind the hook. stitches on your first row, hook into ring. the ring as needed.
missing the first stitch.
WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET 77
YOUR GUIDE
double crochet dc single crochet sc Find out everything you need to know about crochet
on Gathered! Our page is filled with step-by-step videos,
half treble htr half double hdc
useful how-tos and information on the tools you’ll need.
treble tr double dc Learn techniques such as how to create a turning chain,
change colour, increase and decrease, sew seams, check
double treble dtr treble tr your tension, make a magic loop, join your rounds and
much more. And while you’re there, have a look at our
triple treble ttr double treble dtr free crochet patterns – you may just find your next make!
78 WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET
CHARTS
38 37
36 35
34 33
32 31
30 29
28 27
26 25
24 23
22 21
20 19
18 17
16 15
14 13
12 11
10 9
8 7
6 5
4 3
2 1
74 70 65 60 55 50 45 40 35 30 25 20 15 10 5
Repeat twice
Key
Yarn A Yarn B
47
46
45
44
43
42
41
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39
38
37
36
35
34
33
32
31
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8 Key
7
6 Gold
5
4
3 White
2
1 Black
38 35 30 25 20 15 10 5
WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET 79
CHARTS
48 Key
47
46 Yarn A Marshmallow
45
44 Yarn B Cherry Drop
43
42
41
40
39
38
37
36
35
34
33
32
31
30
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27
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9
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5
4
3
2
1
35 30 25 20 15 10 5
Size M Size L Size XL Size 2XL Size 3XL Size S
Start Start Start Start Start Start
RS ROWS
80 WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET
CHARTS
CAL Chart 2
38
37
36
35
34
33
32
31
30
29
28
27
26
25
24
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22
21
20
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10 Key
9
8 Citrus Yellow
7
6 Deep Teal
5
4
3 Thistle Purple
2
1 Arctic White
47 45 40 35 30 25 20 15 10 5
CAL Chart 3
38
37
36
35
34
33
32
31
30
29
28
27
26
25
24
23
22
21
20
19
18
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10 Key
9
8 Deep Teal
7
6 Cerise Pink
5
4
3 Arctic White
2
1 Citrus Yellow
47 45 40 35 30 25 20 15 10 5
WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET 81
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other must-make projects
include a cute Gothic gal,
great accessories for gifts
including hat, scarf and
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a fab sweater, a placemat,
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issuE 148 issuE 147 issuE 146 issuE 145 issuE 144
Coquette collection, Science collection, Fair Fairy tale collection, Art house collection, Swirl collection, stripy
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kids’ storage pockets. jumper, piano scarf. kid’s ami’ tool set. one-ball scarf. socks, winter blankets.
from aroun
sl
l dol
d the rld
a
wo
eFstiv
IN ASSOCIATION WITH
FESTIVAL DOLLS
CONTENTS
04 UP-HELLY-AA 28 BORYEONG MUD FEST
08 RIO CARNIVAL 32 LA TOMATINA
12 HOLI 36 REGATA STORICA
16 SONGKRAN 40 OKTOBERFEST
20 KODOMO NO HI 44 DAY OF THE DEAD
24 MIDSUMMER 48 CHRISTMAS
2 WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET
FESTIVAL DOLLS
NOTES BASIC DOLL times, 9dc in Body, place right Arm next to
Pattern is worked using the amigurumi ARMS (MAKE 2) Body, (dc through 2 layers of Arm and next st of
method. Work stitches continuously in a spiral Make a magic loop. Body) 4 times, 3dc in Body. [24 sts]
without closing off each round with a slip Round 1 (RS) Ch1 (does not count as st Round 22 (1dc, inv dec) 8 times. [16 sts]
stitch. It may help to use a stitch marker in the throughout), 6dc in loop. [6 sts] Round 23 (2dc, inv dec) 4 times. [12 sts]
first stitch of each round, moving it up as you Round 2 (1dc, 2dc in next st) 3 times. [9 sts] Rounds 24-27 Dc in each st around.
work. Round 3 Dc in each st around. Round 28 Ss in each st around.
Legs and Body are worked seamlessly. Arms Round 4 3dc, (1dc, 1ttr) in next st (push ttr to RS Fasten off.
are made separately, then joined as you work to create thumb), 4dc, 2dc in next st. [11 sts] Stuff the Body and neck firmly.
the Body. The Head is made separately and Round 5 3dc, inv dec, 4dc, inv dec. [9 sts]
sewn to the Body. Variations for each Doll are Rounds 6-19 Dc in each st around. HEAD
included in individual patterns. Round 20 (Left Arm) Inv dec, 6dc (to end above Head is worked from the top down.
If you are making these toys for a child under thumb). [7 sts] Make a magic loop.
36 months, do not use safety eyes; instead, Leave rem sts unworked. Round 1 (RS) Ch1, 6dc in loop. [6 sts]
embroider eyes with stranded cotton. Round 20 (Right Arm) Inv dec, 2dc (to end Round 2 2dc in each st around. [12 sts]
opposite side from thumb). [3 sts] Round 3 (1dc, 2dc in next st) 6 times. [18 sts]
TENSION Leave rem sts unworked. Round 4 (1dc, 2dc in next st, 1dc) 6 times.
Tension is not critical for any of these projects, Fasten off. [24 sts]
but it may affect the yarn quantities required. Lightly stuff the hand, leave the Arm unstuffed. Round 5 (3dc, 2dc in next st) 6 times. [30 sts]
Flatten the opening at the top of the Arm. Round 6 (2dc, 2dc in next st, 2dc) 6 times.
ABBREVIATIONS [36 sts]
See individual patterns for special LEGS (MAKE 2) Round 7 (5dc, 2dc in next st) 6 times. [42 sts]
abbreviations Ch5. Round 8 (3dc, 2dc in next st, 3dc) 6 times.
For a full list, see page 78 of Simply Crochet Round 1 (RS) 2dc in second ch from hook, 2dc, [48 sts]
magazine 4dc in next ch, turn to work across opposite Rounds 9-17 Dc in each st around.
side of foundation ch, 2dc, 2dc in next ch. Round 18 15dc, (2dc in next st, 2dc) 3 times,
For yarn stockists contact [12 sts] 1dc, (2dc in next st, 2dc) 3 times, 14dc. [54 sts]
Sirdar 01924 231682 www.sirdar.com Round 2 2htr in next 2 sts, 2htr, 2htr in next 4 Rounds 19-22 Dc in each st around.
sts, 2htr, 2htr in next 2 sts, htr in first st to Secure safety eyes between Rounds 17-18,
denote new end of round. [20 sts] above the second and fifth increases of Round
Round 3 (Working in bl and third bl only) dc in 18 (11 sts apart).
each st around. [20 sts] Round 23 (2dc, inv dec, 2dc) 9 times. [45 sts]
BASIC DOLL Round 4 Dc in each st around. Round 24 (3dc, inv dec) 9 times. [36 sts]
Skill level: A bit tricky Round 5 4dc, (inv dec) 6 times, 4dc. [14 sts] Round 25 (2dc, inv dec, 2dc) 6 times. [30 sts]
Round 6 5dc, (inv dec) twice, 5dc. [12 sts] Round 26 (3dc, inv dec) 6 times. [24 sts]
YOU WILL NEED Rounds 7-14 Dc in each st around. Stuff the Head.
Q Sirdar Happy Cotton DK Round 15 (3dc, 2dc in next st) 3 times. [15 sts] Round 27 (Inv dec) 12 times. [12 sts]
(100% cotton, 20g/43m) Rounds 16-23 Dc in each st around. Fasten off, leaving a long tail.
Refer to individual patterns for yarn colours Fasten off left Leg only. Place the opening at the base of Head over the
Q A 2.5mm (US B/1 or C/2) hook Round 24 8dc (to end at centre stitch on inside final 3 rounds of the Body. Sew the final round
Q Stitch marker of Leg) [8 sts] Leave remaining sts unworked. of the Head to between Rounds 25-26 of the
Q Toy stuffing Do not fasten off right Leg. Body. Weave in ends.
Q 2 black safety eyes, 5mm diameter Stuff Legs.
Q Black stranded cotton FACE
BODY Using yarn colour used for Head, embroider the
MEASUREMENTS Continue from right Leg. nose with a bullion knot, 1 stitch wide, 1 round
Dolls measures approx 23cm tall Round 1 (RS) Ch2, dc in centre stitch of inside below the eyes, wrapping the yarn 4 times
of left Leg (with feet facing same direction), dc around the needle.
ABBREVIATIONS in next 14 sts of left Leg, dc in next 2 ch, dc in Using a shade of pink yarn, make 2 short
inv dec Insert hook in front loop of next st, next 15 sts of right Leg, dc in opposite side of straight sts below outer edge of each eye for
insert hook in front loop of next st across, yrh next 2 ch. [34 sts] the cheeks. Using 2 strands of black stranded
and pull through both sts, yrh and pull through Round 2 (16dc, 2dc in next st) twice. [36 sts] cotton embroider a loose straight st, 1 stitch
2 loops on hook Rounds 3-7 Dc in each st around. wide, 3 rounds below the nose. Shape to form
bullion knot Thread yarn onto darning needle, Round 8 (4dc, inv dec) 6 times. [30 sts] a small smile.
bring yarn out to RS where you want the st to Rounds 9-13 Dc in each st around.
begin, insert needle back to WS where the st Round 14 (3dc, inv dec) 6 times. [24 sts]
will end and then back to RS where the yarn Rounds 15-19 Dc in each st around.
first came through, wrap yarn around needle 4 Round 20 3dc (to end at centre back of Body),
times, pull the needle fully through so st sits pm to denote new end of round. [3 sts]
against the fabric Stuff the Body.
third bl Insert hook into the third bl which sits Arms are joined to the Body over the next
at the back of the htr st, leave the top 2 loops round. Make sure the thumb points forwards as
unworked to form a ridge on the RS you join.
For a full list, see page 78 of Simply Crochet Round 21 4dc, place left Arm next to Body, (dc
magazine through 2 layers of Arm and next st of Body) 4
WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET 3
D
SHETLAN
Up-Helly-Aa
Where: Lerwick, Shetland
When: 28 January 2025
What’s it all about: Up-Helly-Aa means
‘the end of the holidays’; it’s a celebration of
Shetland history and Norse heritage. Senior
and junior festivals take place, with bands, songs
and processions. An elected chief, the ‘Guizer
Jarl’, leads a squad of Vikings, followed by
squads of locals in fancy dress. The day ends
with the lighting of over 1,000 torches and the
ceremonial burning of a Viking ‘galley’ (longship),
marking the return of the light after winter.
For more info: Find out about this torchlit
Viking fire festival at www.uphellyaa.org
FESTIVAL DOLLS
6 WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET
FESTIVAL DOLLS
Row 9.
Row 10 Ch1, (working through Row 9 and
foundation ch) dc in each st across to join, turn.
Row 11 Ch1, dc in each st across, turn.
Row 12 Ch1, 2dc in next st, 1dc, 2dc in last st,
turn. [5 sts]
Row 13 Ch1, 2dc in next st, 3dc, 2dc in last st,
turn. [7 sts]
Row 14 Ch1, 2dc in next st, 5dc, 2dc in last st,
turn. [9 sts]
Row 15 Ch1, 2dc in next st, 7dc, 2dc in last st.
[11 sts]
Fasten off and weave in ends.
Slide Rounds 1-9 of Blade over top of Handle
and sew in place.
SHIELD
Using a 2mm hook and Pebble, make a magic
loop.
Round 1 (RS) Ch1, 8htr in loop, ss to first htr to
join. [8 sts]
Fasten off.
Join Cookie to any third bl of Round 1.
Round 2 (Working in third bl) ss in each st
around. [8 sts]
Round 3 (Working in bl only) 2dc in each st
around. [16 sts]
Round 4 (1dc, 2dc in next st) 8 times. [24 sts]
Round 5 (1dc, 2dc in next st, 1dc) 8 times.
[32 sts]
Round 6 (3dc, 2dc in next st) 8 times, turn.
[40 sts]
Fasten off.
Join Pebble in any stitch.
Round 7 (WS) Dc in each st around.
Round 8 Ss in each st around.
Fasten off and weave in ends.
FUR CAPE Row 14 Beginning in the first unworked bl of
Using a 2.5mm hook and Ketchup, ch13. Row 7, *(turn to work in unworked bl) (ch3, ss in HANDLE
Row 1 (WS) Dc in second ch from hook and next st) in each st across, (turn to work in Using a 2.5mm hook and Pebble, leaving a long
each ch across, turn. [12 sts] unworked fl) (ch3, ss in next st) in each st across; tail, ch10.
Row 2 Ch1, dc in bl of each st across, turn. rep from * twice more, (turn to work in Fasten off leaving long tail.
Row 3 Ch1, dc in fl of each st across, turn. unworked fls of Row 1) (ch3, ss in next st) 3 Sew Handle to WS of Shield on opposite sides
Rows 4-5 As Rows 2-3. times. [18 sts] of Round 1.
Work is separated into 2 pieces to fit around the Fasten off and weave in ends.
shoulders. Sew Cape in place across shoulders.
Row 6 Ch1, (working in bl only) 3dc, turn Using Cookie, embroider 2 straps across front
leaving rem sts unworked. [3 sts] of Body, using the image as a guide.
Row 7 Ch1, (working in fl only) 3dc, turn.
Rows 8-11 Rep Rows 6-7 twice more. AXE
Row 12 Ch1, (working in bl only) 3dc, turn. Using a 2mm hook and Cookie, make a magic
Row 13 Ch3, ss in bl of next st, (ch3, ss in bl of loop.
next st) twice. Round 1 (RS) Ch1, 6dc in loop. [6 sts]
Row 14 Beginning in the first unworked bl of Rounds 2-15 Dc in each st around.
Row 11, *(turn to work in unworked bl) (ch3, ss Fasten off, leaving a long tail.
in next st) in each st across, (turn to work in Thread tail through the fl of each st and pull
unworked fl) (ch3, ss in next st) in each st across; tight to close. Weave in ends.
rep from * 4 times more, (turn to work in
unworked fls of Row 1) (ch3, ss in next st) 12 BLADE
times, (turn to work in foundation ch) (ch3, ss in Using a 2mm hook and Pebble, leaving a long
next st) 12 times. [78 sts] tail, ch4.
Fasten off and weave in ends. Row 1 Dc in second ch from hook and in each
With RS facing, rejoin Ketchup to seventh ch across, turn. [3 sts]
unworked bl of Row 5. Rows 2-9 Ch1, dc in each st across, turn.
Rows 6-13 As Rows 6-13 of first side. Fold Blade in half so foundation ch is behind
WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET 7
BRAZIL
Rio carnival
Where: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
When: 28 February–8 March 2025
What’s it all about: The biggest event of
Brazil’s cultural calendar, the parades at the
80,000-seat Sambadrome attract millions of
visitors. Its origins began in 1840, and samba,
the “perfect illustration of the Afro-European
blend that defines Brazilian culture” appeared
in the 1900s. Samba schools perform in front
of judges who appraise the costumes, songs
and dances. Balls take place alongside street
parties, which get going three months before!
For more info: Get dancing at ‘the greatest
show on Earth’ at www.riocarnival.org
FESTIVAL DOLLS
10 WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET
FESTIVAL DOLLS
TO FINISH
To shape the Feathers, mix 1 part white glue to
2 parts water in a shallow dish. Immerse
Feather in the glue mixture until wet (avoid
wetting yarn tails required for sewing). Gently
squeeze out excess water, then use your fingers
to shape until desired look is achieved.
Weave a wire through the back of Headdress
Feather and fold up the end of the Feather to
WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET 11
INDIA
Holi
Where: India, worldwide
When: 14 March 2025
What’s it all about: This Hindu festival
includes religious ceremonies, but it’s also a
time for fun. Celebrations start up to 40 days
before, bonfires represent the triumph of good
over evil, there are dancing and singing, special
food and desserts, the exchange of gifts, and
throwing of powder paint and coloured water.
Everyone joins in and is fair game! The story of
the god Krishna and goddess Radha is thought
to be behind throwing the water and paint.
For more info: Discover some traditional
Holi locations at www.incredibleindia.org
FESTIVAL DOLLS
MARCH: HOLI
(INDIA)
YOU WILL NEED
Q Sirdar Happy Cotton DK
(100% cotton, 20g/43m)
2 balls of Biscuit (776)
1 ball of each:
Cookie (777)
School Days (758)
Liquorice (775)
Stomp (774)
Jammy (755)
Giggle (795)
Quack (788)
Seaside (784)
Q A 2.5mm (US B/1 or C/2) hook
Q A 2mm (US 4 Steel or B/1) hook
Q Stitch marker
Q Toy stuffing
Q 2 black safety eyes, 5mm diameter
Q Black stranded cotton
HOLI DOLL
Follow the Basic Doll pattern on page 3 unless
other instructions are listed, using the following
colours:
Rounds 1-15 of left Arm using Biscuit.
Round 16 of left Arm using Dolly, ss in each st
around. (Working through bl of ss and both
loops of Round 15) dc in each st around.
[2 rounds]
Rounds 17-20 of left Arm using Dolly.
Rounds 1-14 of right Arm using Biscuit. SHOES (MAKE 2) Rows 1-4 As Rows 2-5.
Round 15 of right Arm using Biscuit, dc in each Using a 2.5mm hook and Cookie and with Doll Row 5 (RS) Ch1, (1dc, ch2, 1dc) in next st, 14dc,
st around, dc in first 4 sts to denote new end of upside down, join to first unworked fl from (1dc, ch2, 1dc) in next st, rotate to work in row
round. [20 sts] Round 3 of Leg. edges, 3dc, dc2tog in unworked sts of Round 1,
Round 16 of right Arm using Dolly, ss in each st Round 1 (RS) Ss in each st around. [20 sts] rotate to work in row edges, 3dc, (1dc, ch2, 1dc)
around. (Working through bl of ss and both Fasten off and weave in ends. in next st of Row 5, 14dc, (1dc, ch2, 1dc) in next
loops of Round 15) dc in each st around. st, rotate to work in row edges, 3dc, dc2tog in
[2 rounds] COLLAR unworked sts of Round 1, rotate to work in row
Rounds 17-19 of right Arm using Dolly. Using a 2.5mm hook and Dolly and with Legs edges, 3dc, ss to first dc to join. [50 sts]
Round 20 of right Arm using Dolly, inv dec, dc pointing down, join to the st to the left of the Fasten off and weave in ends.
in next 7 [8] leave rem sts unworked. centre front fl of Round 22 of Body.
Rounds 1-5 of Legs using Cookie Round 1 (RS) Ch2 (does not count as st), EARS (MAKE 2)
Round 6 of Leg using Biscuit (working in bl (working in fl only) 1htr, 13htr, (1htr, ch1, 1ss) in Using a 2.5mm hook and Biscuit, make a magic
only) ss in each st around. (Working in bl only) next st, skip 1 st. [16 sts] loop.
5dc, (inv dec) twice, 5dc. [12 sts] [2 rounds] Fasten off and weave in ends. Round 1 (RS) Ch1, (4dc, 1ss) in loop. [5 sts]
Rounds 7-8 of Legs using Biscuit. Using Dolly, embroider 2 vertical straight lines Fasten off, leaving a long tail.
Round 9 of Legs using School Days, ss in each st 4 rows long, down the centre front of Tunic Sew Ears to sides of Head, between Rounds
around. (Working through bl of ss and both starting at the Collar. 18-19 and approx 5 sts behind each eye.
loops of Round 15) dc in each st around.
[2 rounds] TUNIC HAIR
Rounds 10-24 of Legs using School Days. Using a 2.5mm hook and Doll and with Doll Using a 2.5mm hook and Liquorice, make a
Rounds 1-4 of Body using School Days. upside down, join to 29th unworked fl of magic loop.
Round 5 of Body using Dolly. Round 5 of Body (below left Arm). Round 1 (RS) Ch1, 6dc in loop. [6 sts]
Round 6 of Body using Dolly (working in bl Round 1 (RS) Ch1, (working in fl only) dc in Round 2 2dc in each st around. [12 sts]
only). each st around, ss to first dc to join. [36 sts] Round 3 (1dc, 2dc in next st) 6 times. [18 sts]
Rounds 7-22 of Body using Dolly. Row 2 Ch1, 16dc, turn. [16 sts] Round 4 (1dc, 2dc in next st, 1dc] 6 times.
Round 23 of Body using Biscuit (working in bl Leave rem sts unworked. [24 sts]
only). Rows 3-5 Ch1, dc in each st across, turn. [16 sts] Round 5 (3dc, 2dc in next st) 6 times. [30 sts]
Rounds 24-28 of Body using Biscuit. Fasten off. Round 6 (2dc, 2dc in next st, 2dc) 6 times.
Head using Biscuit. Using Dolly, join to third unworked st of Round 1. [36 sts]
14 WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET
FESTIVAL DOLLS
Round 7 (5dc, 2dc in next st) 6 times. [42 sts] Round 2 Ch1, 2dc in each st around, ss to first Round 4 (1dc, 2dc in next st, 1dc) 5 times.
Round 8 (3dc, 2dc in next st, 3dc) 6 times. dc to join. [14 sts] [20 sts]
[48 sts] Round 3 Ch1, (1dc, 2dc in next st) 7 times, ss to Round 5 (3dc, 2dc in next st) 5 times. [25 sts]
Round 9 (15dc, 2dc in next st) 3 times. [51 sts] first dc to join. [21 sts] Round 6 (2dc, 2dc in next st, 2 dc) 5 times.
Rounds 10-16 Dc in each st around. Round 4 Ch1, (1dc, 2dc in next st, 1dc) 7 times, [30 sts]
Round 17 Dc in each st around, turn. ss to first dc to join. [28 sts] Round 7 (5dc, 2dc in next st) 5 times. [35 sts]
Round 18 (WS) Dc2tog, 47dc, dc2tog, turn. Round 5 Ch1, (working in bl only) (3dc, 2dc in Fasten off, leaving a long tail.
[49 sts] next st) 7 times, ss to first dc to join. [35 sts] Sew Powder to unworked bl of Round 6 of
Round 19 Dc2tog, 45dc, dc2tog, turn. [47 sts] Round 6 Ch1, dc in each st around, ss to first sc Bowl.
Fasten off, leaving a long tail. to join.
Sew Hair to Head. Using Liquorice, embroider a Round 7 (Working in fl only) Ch1, (6dc, 2dc in
few short straight sts in front of each Ear to next st) 5 times, ss to first dc to join. [40 sts]
make sideburns and at central parting. Round 8 Ch1, dc in each st around, ss to first dc
Using Jammy, Quack, Seaside and Giggle, to join.
embroider starbursts across the front of the Fasten off and weave in end.
Body and Head, using the image as a guide.
POWDER (MAKE 3)
POWDER BOWLS (MAKE 3) Make 1 each in Jammy, Quack and Seaside.
Using a 2.5mm hook and Stomp, make a magic Using a 2.5mm hook, make a magic loop.
loop. Round 1 (RS) Ch1, 5dc in loop. [5 sts]
Round 1 (RS) Ch1, 7dc in loop, ss to first dc to Round 2 2dc in each st around. [10 sts]
join. [7 sts] Round 3 (1dc, 2dc in next st) 5 times. [15 sts]
WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET 15
THAILAND
Songkran
Where: Thailand, worldwide
When: 13-15 April 2025
What’s it all about: Thailand celebrates
Songkran, its traditional Thai New Year, when
the sun passes into the constellation of Aries.
Originating in a Buddhist folk myth related to
the rice harvest, pouring water symbolises
cleansing, reverence and good fortune. There
are huge water fights where everyone joins in
(even the elephants!), plays, games, music and
feasting. Unity, cooperation, forgiveness and
astrological knowledge all play important roles.
For more info: To take part in the World
Water Festival, visit www.tourismthailand.org
FESTIVAL DOLLS
APRIL: SONGKRAN
(THAILAND)
YOU WILL NEED
Q Sirdar Happy Cotton DK
(100% cotton, 20g/43m)
2 balls of Sandcastle (773)
1 ball of each:
Freckle (753)
Cookie (777)
Jammy (755)
Melon (794)
Pebble (759)
Bunting (797)
Q A 2.5mm (US B/1 or C/2) hook
Q A 2mm (US 4 Steel or B/1) hook
Q Stitch marker
Q Toy stuffing
Q 2 black safety eyes, 5mm diameter
Q Black stranded cotton
SONGKRAN DOLL
Follow the Basic Doll pattern on page 3 unless
other instructions are listed, using the following
colours:
Rounds 1-8 of Arms using Sandcastle.
Round 9 of Arms using Freckle, ss in each st
around. (Working through bl of ss and both
loops of Round 15) dc in each st around.
[2 rounds]
Rounds 10-20 of Arm using Freckle.
Rounds 1-2 of Legs using Cookie.
Rounds 3-24 of Legs using Sandcastle.
Rounds 1-9 of Body using Sandcastle.
Round 10 of Body using Jammy.
Round 11 of Body using Freckle (working in bl
only) ss in each st around. (Working in bl only)
dc in each st around. [2 rounds] Round 22 (Working in bl only) ss in each st Row 29 Ch2, 1tr, 2htr, 2dc, turn.
Rounds 12-22 of Body using Freckle. around. Row 30 Ch1, 2dc, 2htr, 1tr, turn.
Round 23 of Body using Sandcastle (working in Change to Jammy. Rows 31-32 Repeat Rows 29-30.
bl only). Round 23 (Working in bl only) dc in each st Row 33 Ch2, 1tr, 2htr, 2dc, turn.
Rounds 24-28 of Body using Sandcastle. around. Rows 34-41 Ch1, dc in each st across, turn.
Head using Sandcastle. Rounds 24-25 Repeat Rounds 22-23. Row 42 Ch2, 1tr, 2htr, 2dc, turn.
Round 26 Dc in each st around. Rows 43-48 Ch1, dc in each st across, turn.
SHOES (MAKE 2) Fasten off and weave in ends. Row 49 Ch1, 2dc, 2htr, 1tr, turn.
Using a 2.5mm hook and Cookie and with Doll Place Skirt on Body. Sew foundation ch of Skirt Rows 50-61 Ch1, dc in each st across, turn.
upside Down, join to first unworked fl from to unworked fl of Round 10 of Body. Fasten off, leaving a long tail for sewing.
Round 3 of Leg. Using image as a guide, position Round 1 of
Round 1 (RS) Ss in each st around. [20 sts] SHAWL (‘SABAI’) Shawl on the front of the Body, in line with the
Fasten off and weave in ends. Using a 2.5mm hook and Melon, ch6. top of the Skirt and with RS facing.
Using Cookie, embroider sandal detail on top of Row 1 (RS) Dc in second ch from hook and Wrap Shawl across top of left shoulder and
each foot. each ch across, turn. [5 sts] around back, then under right Arm, using curve
Rows 2-6 Ch1, dc in each st across, turn. of Shawl to guide placement. Bring Shawl up
SKIRT (‘SINH’) Row 7 Ch1, skip 1 st, 4dc, turn. [4 sts] across front of Body and drape across left
Using a 2.5mm hook and Jammy, leaving a long Row 8 Ch1, skip 1 st, 3dc, turn. [3 sts] shoulder again, allowing it to hang down the
tail ch30, ss in first ch being careful not to twist Rows 9-20 Ch1, dc in each st across, turn. back behind the left Arm. Sew Shawl in place.
the ch. Row 21 Ch1, 2dc in first st, 2dc, turn. [4 sts]
Round 1 (RS) Ch1, dc in each ch around. [30 sts] Row 22 Ch1, 2dc in first st, 3dc, turn. [5 sts] HAIR
Round 2 Dc in each st around. Row 23 Ch1, dc in each st across, turn. Using a 2.5mm hook and Cookie, make magic
Round 3 (4dc, 2dc in next st) 6 times. [36 sts] Row 24 Ch1, 2dc, 2htr, 1tr, turn. loop.
Rounds 4-11 Dc in each st around. Row 25 Ch2 (does not count as st throughout), Round 1 (RS) Ch 1, 6dc in loop. [6 sts]
Round 12 (10dc, inv dec) 3 times. [33 sts] tr in first st, 2htr, 2dc, turn. Round 2 2dc in each st around. [12 sts]
Rounds 13-21 Dc in each st around. Rows 26-27 Repeat Rows 24-25. Round 3 (1dc, 2dc in next st) 6 times. [18 sts]
Change to Melon. Row 28 Ch1, dc in each st across, turn. Round 4 (1dc, 2dc in next st, 1dc) 6 times. [24 sts]
18 WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET
FESTIVAL DOLLS
Round 5 (3dc, 2dc in next st) 6 times. [30 sts] RIBBON Rounds 7-10 Ch1, dc in each st around, ss to
Round 6 (2dc, 2dc in next st, 2dc) 6 times. Using a 2.5mm hook and Melon, leaving a long first dc to join.
[36 sts] tail, ch24. Round 11 Ch1, (working in fl only) htr in each st
Round 7 (5dc, 2dc in next st) 6 times. [42 sts] Fasten off, leaving a long tail. around.
Round 8 (3dc, 2dc in next st, 3dc) 6 times. Wrap ch around base of Bun, tie yarn tails Fasten off and weave in end.
[48 sts] together. Using Pebble, embroider crosses over Rounds
Round 9 (15dc, 2dc in next st) 3 times. [51 sts] 7-10, each 2 sts wide, using image as a guide.
Rounds 10-19 Dc in each st around. WATER BOWL
Round 20 11dc, inv dec, 1htr, 12tr, 1htr, 1dc, 1ss, Using a 2mm hook and Pebble, make magic WATER
1dc, 1htr, 6tr, 1htr, inv dec, 11dc. [49 sts] loop. Using a 2mm hook and Bunting, make magic
Fasten off, leaving a long tail for sewing. Round 1 (RS) Ch1, 7dc in loop, ss to first dc to loop.
Sew Hair to Head. join. [7 sts] Round 1 (RS) Ch1, 8dc in loop, ss to first dc to
Round 2 Ch1, 2dc in each st around, ss to first join. [8 sts]
HAIR BUN dc to join. [14 sts] Round 2 Ch1, 2dc in each st around, ss to first
Using a 2.5mm hook and Cookie, make magic Round 3 Ch1 (1dc, 2dc in next st) 7 times, ss to dc to join. [16 sts]
loop. first dc to join. [21 sts] Round 3 Ch1 (1dc, 2dc in next st) 8 times, ss to
Rounds 1-5 As Rounds 1-5 of Hair. [30 sts] Round 4 Ch1, (2dc, 2dc in next st) 7 times, ss to first dc to join. [24 sts]
Rounds 6-8 Dc in each st around. first dc to join. [28 sts] Round 4 Ch1, (2dc, 2dc in next st) 8 times, ss to
Round 9 (3dc, inv dec) 6 times. [24 sts] Round 5 Ch1, (working in bl only) dc in each st first dc to join. [32 sts]
Fasten off, leaving a long tail for sewing. around, ss to first dc to join. Fasten off, leaving a long tail for sewing.
Stuff Bun and sew to top of Head. Round 6 Ch1, (6dc, 2dc in next st) 4 times, ss to Lightly stuff Bowl.
first dc to join. [32 sts] Sew Water to unworked bl of Round 10 of Bowl.
WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET 19
JAPAN
kodomo no hi
Where: Japan
When: 5 May 2025
What’s it all about: On Kodomo No Hi, or
Children’s Day, families celebrate children and
pray for their health and happiness. Koinobori
(carp streamers) festivals are held with food
stalls and concerts. The coloured streamers
are flown on buildings and homes and over
flowing water. They are symbolic of the carp’s
nature to swim upstream against the current,
and a Chinese legend of a carp becoming a
dragon when it swims up a waterfall.
For more info: It’s held at the end of the
Golden Week holiday, see www.japan.travel
FESTIVAL DOLLS
22 WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET
FESTIVAL DOLLS
Sew Row 37 to ch-25 of Row 4. Sew Hair to Fasten off, leaving a long tail.
Head. Thread tail through the fl of each st and pull
tight to close. Weave in ends.
HEADBAND
Using a 2.5mm hook and Piggy, leaving a long MOUTH
tail, ch28. Using a 2mm hook and Shower, with top of
Fasten off, leaving a long tail. Carp Streamer pointing upwards. Join to any
Wrap ch across top of Hair to create Headband unworked fl of Round 3.
and sew in place. Round 1 (RS) Ch1, dc in each st around, ss to
first dc to join. [18 sts]
CARP STREAMER (‘KOINOBORI’) Fasten off and weave in ends.
Carp Streamer is worked from the top down. Attach a length of Shower to either side of
Using a 2mm hook and Shower, make a magic Mouth and tie together to hang the Carp
loop. Streamer.
Round 1 (RS) Ch1, 6dc in loop, ss to first dc to
join. [6 sts] TAIL
Round 2 Ch1, 2dc in each st around, ss to first Using a 2mm hook and Princess, with Mouth
dc to join. [12 sts] pointing downwards, join any unworked fl of
Round 3 Ch1, (1dc, 2dc in next st) 6 times, ss to Round 25.
first dc to join. [18 sts] Round 1 (RS) Ch1, dc in each st around. [12 sts]
Round 4 Ch1, (working in bl only) dc in each st Round 2 1dc, skip 2 sts, (2tr, ch1, 2tr) in next st,
around, ss to first dc to join. skip 2 sts, 1dc, skip 2 sts, (2tr, ch1, 2tr) in next st,
Round 5 Ch1, (5dc, 2dc in next st) 3 times, skip 2 sts. [10 sts, 2 ch-1 sp]
change to Princess, ss to first dc to join. [21 sts] Round 3 3dc, (1dc, ch2, 1dc) in ch1 sp, 5dc, (1dc,
Rounds 6-7 Ch1, dc in each st around, ss to first ch2, 1dc) in ch-1 sp, 2dc. [14 sts, 2 ch-2 sp]
dc to join. Round 4 4dc, (1dc, ch2, 1dc) in ch-2 sp, 7dc,
Round 8 Ch1, (3dc, 2dc in next st, 3dc) 3 times, (1dc, ch2, 1dc) in ch-2 sp, 3dc. [18 sts, 2 ch-2 sp]
ss to first dc to join. [24 sts] Change to Shower.
Rounds 9-10 Ch1, dc in each st around, change Round 5 Inv dec, 3dc, (1dc, ch1, 1dc) in ch-2 sp,
to Shower, ss to first dc to join. 4dc, inv dec, 3dc, (1dc, ch1, 1dc) in ch-2 sp, 4dc.
Round 11 Ch1, 2dc in next st, 23dc, change to [20 sts, 2 ch-2 sp]
Princess, ss to first dc to join. [25 sts] Fasten off and weave in ends.
Round 12 Ch1, (1dc, skip 2 sts, 4tr in next st,
skip 1 st) 5 times, change to Shower, ss to first EYE
dc to join. Using a 2mm hook and black stranded cotton,
Round 13 Ch1, (spiked dc, 4dc) 5 times, change make a magic loop.
to Princess, ss to first spiked dc to join. Round 1 (RS) Ch1, 6dc in loop. [6 sts]
BOW Round 14 Ch3 (counts as first tr), 1tr in same st, Change to Tea Time.
Using a 2.5mm hook and Chilli, ch30. skip 2 sts, (1dc, skip 1 st, 4tr in next st, skip 2 sts) Round 2 2dc in each st around. [12 sts]
Fasten off. 4 times, 1dc, skip 1 st, 2tr in same st as starting Change to Shower.
Tie in a bow and sew Bow to front of Sash. tr, change to Shower, ss to top of beg ch-3 to Round 3 (Working in bl only) ss in each st
join. around.
HAIR Round 15 Ch1, (2dc, spiked dc, 2dc) 5 times, Fasten off, leaving a long tail.
Using a 2.5mm hook and Liquorice, make a change to Princess, ss to first dc to join. Sew Eye to one side of Body, over Rounds 6-9.
magic loop. Round 16 Ch1, (1dc, skip 1 st, 4tr in next st, skip
Round 1 (RS) Ch1, 6dc in loop. [6 sts] 2 sts) 5 times, change to Shower, ss to first dc to FIN
Round 2 2dc in each st around. [12 sts] join. Using a 2mm hook and Princess, ch4.
Round 3 (1dc, 2dc in next st) 6 times. [18 sts] Rounds 17-19 As Rounds 13-15. Row 1 Dc in second ch from hook, 2dc, turn.
Row 4 (RS) Ch25, htr in second ch from hook, Round 20 Ch1, (1dc, skip 1 st, 3htr in next st, [3 sts]
htr in next 18 ch, dc in next 5 ch, ss in next st of skip 2 sts) 5 times, change to Shower, ss to first Row 2 Ch1, 2dc, 3htr in next st, turn to work
Round 3, turn. [25 sts] dc to join. [20 sts] across opposite side of foundation ch, 3htr in
Row 5 (WS) Ch1, skip ss, (working in fl only) 5dc, Round 21 Ch1, (spiked dc, 3dc) 5 times, change next st, 2dc. [10 sts]
19htr, turn. [24 sts] to Princess, ss to first spiked dc to join. Fasten off, leaving a long tail.
Row 6 Ch1, (working in bl only) 19htr, 5dc, ss in Round 22 Ch1, 3dc in first st, skip 1 st, (1dc, skip Sew straight edge of Fin to side of Body, just
next st of Round 3, turn. [25 sts] 1 st, 3dc in next st, skip 1 st) 4 times, 1dc, skip 1 below Eye and between Rounds 11-12.
Rows 7-26 Rep Rows 2-3 ten times more. st, ss to first dc to join. [20 sts]
Row 27 Ch1, skip ss, (working in fl only) 5dc, Round 23 Ch1, dc in each st around, ss to first
7htr, turn. [12 sts] dc to join. [20 sts]
Leave rem sts unworked. Round 24 Ch1, (3dc, inv dec) 4 times, ss to first
Row 28 Ch1, (working in bl only) 7htr, 5dc, ss in dc to join. [16 sts]
next st of Round 3, turn. [13 sts] Round 25 Ch1, (1dc, inv dec, 1dc) 4 times, ss to
Rows 29-36 Rep Rows 24-25 four times more. first dc to join. [12 sts]
Row 37 Ch1, skip ss, (working in fl only) 5dc, Lightly stuff the Carp Streamer.
7htr. [12 sts] Round 26 Ch1, (working in bl only) (inv dec) 6
Fasten off, leaving a long tail. times, ss to first st to join. [6 sts]
WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET 23
SWEDEN
Midsummer
Where: Sweden
When: 20-21 June 2025
What’s it all about: Festivities are held over
the weekend of the summer solstice. Dances
are held around a maypole, and girls used to
pick seven different kinds of flowers, putting
them under their pillows to dream of future
husbands. Wearing a wreath of flowers is an
old symbol of rebirth and fertility. Drinking
songs are popular, as are games and dancing,
and food includes new potatoes, pickled
herring, cheese pie and strawberries.
For more info: Celebrations vary, but
visitors are welcome! www.visitsweden.com
FESTIVAL DOLLS
JUNE: MIDSUMMER
(SWEDEN)
YOU WILL NEED
Q Sirdar Happy Cotton DK
( 100% cotton, 20g/43m)
3 balls of Sandcastle (773)
1 ball of each:
Tea Time (751)
Buttercup (771)
Treetop (780)
Fizz (779)
Melon (794)
Dolly (761)
Sorbet (793)
Q A 2.5mm (US B/1 or C/2) hook
Q A 2mm (US 4 Steel or B/1) hook
Q Stitch marker
Q Toy stuffing
Q 2 black safety eyes, 5mm diameter
Q Black stranded cotton
DRESS
Using a 2.5mm hook and Tea Time, ch18, ss in
first ch being careful not to twist the chain.
Round 1 (RS) Ch1, (2dc, 3dc in next ch) twice,
6dc, (3dc in next ch, 2dc) twice, ss to first dc to
join. [26 sts]
Round 2 Ch2 (does not count as a st
throughout), 4tr, ch6, skip 4 sts, 10tr, ch6, skip 4
sts, 4tr, ss to first tr to join. [18 sts]
Round 3 Ch2, 4tr, 6tr in ch, 10tr, 6tr in ch, 4tr, ss
to first tr to join. [30 sts]
Round 4 Ch2, 2tr, (2tr in next st, 4tr) 5 times, 2tr Round 3 (1dc, 2dc in next st) 6 times. [18 sts] Hair around the back and sides of the Head and
in next st, 2tr, ss to first tr to join. [36 sts] Round 4 (1dc, 2dc in next st, 1dc) 6 times. the 2 shorter locks of hair at the centre of the
Rounds 5-8 Ch1, *(1dc, 1tr) in next st, skip 1 st; [24 sts] forehead. Gently twist the front hairs and sew
rep from * 17 times more. Round 5 (3dc, 2dc in next st) 6 times. [30 sts] in place.
Round 9 *(1dc, 1tr) in next st, skip 1 st**; rep Round 6 (2dc, 2dc in next st, 2dc) 6 times.
from * to ** 4 times more, (1dc, 1tr, 1dc) in next [36 sts] FLORAL WREATH
st, skip 1 st, (1tr, 1dc, 1tr) in next st, skip 1 st; rep Round 7 (5dc, 2dc in next st) 6 times. [42 sts] LARGE LEAF CHAIN
from * to ** 7 times more, (1dc, 1tr, 1dc) in next Round 8 (3dc, 2dc in next st, 3dc) 6 times. Using a 2mm hook and Treetop:
st, skip 1 st, (1tr, 1dc, 1tr) in next st, skip 1 st; rep [48 sts] Row 1 (RS) *Ch14, tr in third ch from hook, ch1,
from * to ** twice more. [40 sts] Round 9 (15dc, 2dc in next st) 3 times. [51 sts] (working in fl and side of prev tr) 1dc, (1tr, 1htr,
Rounds 10-13 *(1dc, 1tr) in next st, skip next st; Rounds 10-19 Dc in each st around. 1ss] in next ch, repeat from * 11 times more,
rep from * 19 times more, dc to first st to join. Round 20 (15dc, inv dec) 3 times. [48 sts] ch11. [60 sts]
[40 sts] Round 21 1ss, (ch21, dc in second ch from Fasten off, leaving a long tail.
Fasten off and weave in end. hook, 19dc in ch, ss in next st of Round 20) 24
Place Dress on Body before attaching the Head. times, 9dc, ss in next st, ch17, dc in second ch SMALL LEAF CHAIN
from hook, 15dc in ch, ss in next 2 sts of Round Using a 2mm hook and Fizz:
HAIR 20, ch17, dc in second ch from hook, 15dc in ch, Row 1 (RS) (Ch7, ss in fourth ch from hook) 16
Using a 2.5mm hook and Buttercup, make a ss in next st of Round 20, 9dc, ss in next st. times, ch3. [16 sts]
magic loop. [26 locks of hair] Fasten off, leaving a long tail.
Round 1 (RS) Ch1, 6dc in loop. [6 sts] Fasten off, leaving a long tail.
Round 2 2dc in each st around. [12 sts] Position the Hair on the Head, with the locks of
26 WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET
FESTIVAL DOLLS
WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET 27
SOUTH KO
REA
mud festival
Where: Boryeong, South Korea
When: 19-26 July 2025
What’s it all about: Korea’s largest
international festival has been held since 1998.
People enjoy well-being and beauty events
including mud baths and mud powder
massage, and relaxing in mineral rich mud
baths. Others take part in the extreme mud
games held along the 136km coastline. Parties
go on day and night, there’s a street parade,
and millions of tourists attend the week-long
festival, also visiting beautiful Daecheon Beach.
For more info: If the mud is calling, visit the
site at www.boryeongmudfestival.com
FESTIVAL DOLLS
30 WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET
FESTIVAL DOLLS
EARS (MAKE 2) GOGGLES (MAKE 2) Round 7 Ch1, (7dc, 2dc in next st, 7dc) twice, ss
Using a 2.5mm hook and Pebble, make a magic Using a 2.5mm hook and Pebble, make a magic to first dc to join. [32 sts]
loop. loop. Rounds 8-9 Ch1, dc in each st around, ss to first
Round 1 (RS) Ch1, (4dc, 1ss) in loop. [5 sts] Round 1 (RS) Ch1, 9htr in loop, ss to first htr to dc to join.
Fasten off, leaving a long tail. join. [9 sts] Round 10 Ch1, (15dc, 2dc in next st) twice, ss to
Sew Ears to sides of Head, between Rounds Round 2 (Working in bl only) Ss in each st first dc to join. [34 sts]
18-19 and approx 5 sts behind each eye. around. Rounds 11-12 Ch1, dc in each st around, ss to
Ch9 after first lens to make nose bridge, ch40 first dc to join.
HAIR after second Lens to make head strap. Round 13 Ch1, (8dc, 2dc in next st, 8dc) twice,
Using a 2.5mm hook and Pebble, make a magic Fasten off leaving a long tail. ss to first dc to join. [36 sts]
loop. Sew the end of ch-9 of first lens to the second Rounds 14-15 Ch1, dc in each st around.
Round 1 (RS) Ch 1, 6dc in loop. [6 sts] lens. Sew the end of ch-40 of second lens to first Round 16 Ch1, (working in fl only) dc in each st
Round 2 2dc in each st around. [12 sts] lens. Place Goggles around Hair and sew in around, ss to first dc to join.
Round 3 (1dc, 2dc in next st) 6 times. [18 sts] place. Ch20 to make handle.
Round 4 (1dc, 2dc in next st, 1dc) 6 times. Fasten off, leaving a long tail.
[24 sts] BUCKET
Round 5 (3dc, 2dc in next st) 6 times. [30 sts] Using a 2.5mm hook and Beach Hut, make a MUD
Round 6 (2dc, 2dc in next st, 2dc) 6 times. magic loop. Using a 2.5mm hook and Pebble, make a magic
[36 sts] Round 1 (RS) Ch1, 6dc in loop, ss to first dc to loop.
Round 7 (5dc, 2dc in next st) 6 times. [42 sts] join. [6 sts] Rounds 1-4 As Rounds 1-4 of Bucket.
Round 8 (3dc, 2dc in next st, 3dc) 6 times. Round 2 Ch1, 2dc in each st around, ss to first Round 5 Ch1, (2dc, 2dc in next st, 2dc) 6 times,
[48 sts] dc to join. [12 sts] ss to first dc to join. [36 sts]
Round 9 (15dc, 2dc in next st) 3 times. [51 sts] Round 3 Ch1, 2dc in each st around, ss to first Fasten off, leaving a long tail for sewing.
Rounds 10-16 Dc in each st around. dc to join. [24 sts] Sew final round of Mud to unworked bl of
Round 17 Dc in each st around, turn. Round 4 Ch1, (3dc, 2dc in next st) 6 times, ss to Round 15 of Bucket, lightly stuff Bucket before
Round 18 (WS) Inv dec, 47dc, inv dec, turn. first dc to join. [30 sts] closing. Sew end of ch-20 to opposite side of
[49 sts] Round 5 Ch1, (working in bl only) dc in each st Bucket to create handle.
Round 19 (RS) Inv dec, 45dc, inv dec. [47 sts] around, ss to first dc to join.
Fasten off, leaving a long tail. Round 6 Ch1, dc in each st around, ss to first dc
Position Hair on Head and sew in place. to join.
WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET 31
SPAIN
La tomatina
Where: Buñol, Spain
When: 27 August 2025
What’s it all about: This fiesta sees crowds
having a wonderful time throwing tomatoes!
A pole goes up in the town square, covered in
soap with a huge ham on the end, and people
try to reach it. Water soaks the ‘soldiers’, and at
11am a shot announces the start. Tomato
‘ammunition’ trucks appear, the crowd rushes
for their ‘bullets’, and soon everything turns
red. A second shot signals the end of the battle,
and the brave participants are hosed down.
For more info: Fancy being pelted in a mass
tomato battle? See www.spain.info
FESTIVAL DOLLS
AUGUST:
LA TOMATINA
(SPAIN)
YOU WILL NEED
Q Sirdar Happy Cotton DK
(100% cotton, 20g/43m)
2 balls of Sandcastle (773)
1 ball of each:
Shower (762)
Princess (798)
Bunting (797)
Cookie (777)
Lippy (789)
Treetop (780)
Q A 2.5mm (US B/1 or C/2) hook
Q Stitch marker
Q Toy stuffing
Q 2 black safety eyes, 5mm diameter
Q Black stranded cotton
LA TOMATINA DOLL
Follow the Basic Doll pattern on page 3 unless
other instructions are listed, using foll colours:
Rounds 1-17 of left Arm using Sandcastle.
Round 18 of left Arm using Shower, ss in each st
around. (Working through bl of ss and both
loops of Round 15) dc in each st around.
[2 rounds]
Rounds 19-20 of left Arm using Shower.
Rounds 1-16 of right Arm using Sandcastle.
Round 17 of Right arm using Sandcastle, dc in
each st around, dc in first 4 sts to denote end of SHORTS EARS (MAKE 2)
round. Using a 2.5mm hook and Bunting, ch36, ss in Using a 2.5mm hook and Sandcastle, make
Round 18 of right Arm using Shower, ss in each first ch being careful not to twist the chain. magic loop.
st around. (Working through bl of ss and both Round 1 (RS) Ch1, dc in each ch around, ss to Round 1 (RS) Ch1, (4dc, 1ss) in loop. [5 sts]
loops of Round 15) dc in each st around. first dc to join. [36 sts] Fasten off, leaving a long tail.
[2 rounds] Round 2 Ch1, (8dc, 2dc in next st) 4 times, ss to Sew Ears to sides of Head, between Rounds
Round 19 of right Arm using Shower. first dc to join. [40 sts] 18-19 and approx 5 sts behind each eye.
Round 20 of right Arm using Shower, inv dec, Rounds 3-7 Ch1, dc in each st around, ss to first
dc in next 7 [8] leave rem sts unworked. dc to join. HAIR
Rounds 1-2 of Legs using Princess. The following round will divide the leg Using a 2.5mm hook and Cookie, make magic
Rounds 3-6 of Legs using Shower. openings. loop.
Round 7 of Legs using Sandcastle, (working in Round 8 Ch1, 20dc, ch1, skip next 20 sts, ss to Round 1 (RS) Ch1, 6dc in loop. [6 sts]
bl only) ss in each st around. (Working in bl first dc to join. [20 sts] Round 2 2dc in each st around. [12 sts]
only) dc in each st around. [2 rounds] Round 9 Ch1, 20dc, dc in ch, ss to first dc to join. Round 3 (1dc, 2dc in next st) 6 times. [18 sts]
Rounds 8-24 of Legs using Sandcastle. [21 sts] Round 4 (1dc, 2dc in next st, 1dc] 6 times.
Rounds 1-6 of Body using Sandcastle. Round 10 Ch1, dc in each st around, ss to first [24 sts]
Round 7-22 of Body using Shower. dc to join. Round 5 (3dc, 2dc in next st) 6 times. [30 sts]
Round 23 of Body using Sandcastle (working in Fasten off and weave in ends. Round 6 (2dc, 2dc in next st, 2dc) 6 times.
bl only). Join Bunting to the last unworked st of Round 7. [36 sts]
Rounds 24-28 of Body using Sandcastle. Round 1 (RS) Ch1, dc in same st, ch1, dc in first Round 7 (5dc, 2dc in next st) 6 times. [42 sts]
Head using Sandcastle. unworked st of Round 7, 18dc, ss to first dc to Round 8 (3dc, 2dc in next st, 3dc) 6 times.
join. [20 sts] [48 sts]
SHOES (MAKE 2) Round 2 Ch1, dc in next st, dc in ch, 19dc, ss to Round 9 (15dc, 2dc in next st) 3 times. [51 sts]
Using a 2.5mm hook and Princess and with Doll first dc to join. [21 sts] Rounds 10-17 Dc in each st around. [8 rounds]
upside down, join to first unworked fl from Round 3 Ch1, dc in each st around, ss to first dc Round 18 Dc in each st around, turn.
Round 3 of Leg. to join. Round 19 (WS) Dc2tog, 47dc, dc2tog. [49 sts]
Round 1 (RS) Ss in each st around. [20 sts] Fasten off and weave in ends. Round 20 Dc2tog, 45dc, dc2tog. [47 sts]
Fasten off and weave in ends. Fasten off, leaving a long tail.
Using a length of yarn in Princess, make 2 Sew Hair to Head.
straight sts across top of each shoe for the
shoelaces.
34 WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET
FESTIVAL DOLLS
GIANT TOMATO Round 5, ch7, tr in third ch from hook, 1tr, 1htr, LARGE BODY SPLATTER
Using a 2.5mm hook and Lippy, make magic 2ss, dc in next st of Round 5, 3dc, ch7, tr in third Using Lippy, make a magic loop.
loop. ch from hook, 1tr, 1htr, 2ss, dc in next st of Round 1 * Ch7, tr in third ch from hook, 1tr, 1htr,
Rounds 1-5 (RS) As Rounds 1-5 of Hair. Round 5, 1htr, 2tr in next st, 1htr, 1dc, 1ss. 2ss, ss in loop, ch10, tr in third ch from hook, 1tr,
Round 6 (9dc, 2dc in next st) 3 times. [33 sts] [56 sts] Leave rem sts unworked. 1htr, 5ss, ss in loop, repeat from * once more,
Rounds 7-10 Dc in each st around. Fasten off leaving a long tail. ch7, tr in third ch from hook, 1tr, 1htr, 2ss, ss in
Round 11 (9dc, inv dec) 3 times. [30 sts] loop. [36 sts]
Round 12 (3dc, inv dec) 6 times. [24 sts] LEAVES (MAKE 2) Fasten off, leaving a long tail.
Round 13 (1dc, inv dec, 1dc) 6 times. [18 sts] Using a 2.5mm hook and Treetop, make magic
Round 14 (1dc, inv dec) 6 times. [12 sts] loop. SMALL BODY SPLATTER
Stuff Tomato. Round 1 (RS) Ch1, 5dc in loop. [5 sts] Using a 2.5mm hook and Lippy, make magic
Round 15 (Inv dec) 6 times. [6 sts] Round 2 Ss in next st, (ch5, ss in second ch from loop.
Fasten off, leaving a long tail. hook, 3ss, ss in next st of Round 1) 4 times, ch5, Round 1 (RS) Ch7, tr in third ch from hook, 1tr,
Thread tail through the fl of each st and pull ss in second ch from hook, 3ss, ss to first ss to 1htr, 2ss, ss in loop, ch9, tr in third ch from hook,
tight to close. Weave in end. join. [25 sts] 1tr, 1htr, 4ss, ss in loop, ch6, tr in third ch from
Fasten off, leaving a long tail. hook, 1tr, 1htr, 1ss, ss in loop. [19 sts]
HEAD SPLATTER Fasten off, leaving a long tail.
Using a 2.5mm hook and Lippy, make magic STALKS (MAKE 2) Sew Body Splatters to Body using the image as
loop. Using Treetop, ch4. a guide.
Rounds 1-5 (RS) As Rounds 1-5 of Hair. [30 sts] Row 1 Ss in second ch from hook and each ch
Round 6 1dc, ch7, tr in third ch from hook, 1tr, across. [3 sts]
1htr, 2ss, dc in next st of Round 5, 2dc, ch10, tr in Fasten off, leaving a long tail.
third ch from hook, 1tr, 1htr, 5ss, dc in next st of Sew Stalk to centre of Leaves. Sew to top of
Round 5, 1dc, ch7, tr in third ch from hook, 1tr, Giant Tomato and Head Splatter.
1htr, 2ss, dc in next st of Round 5, 1dc, ch10, tr in Sew Head Splatter to Hair.
third ch from hook, 1tr, 1htr, 5ss, dc in next st of
WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET 35
ITALY Regata Storica
Where: Venice, Italy
When: 7 September 2025
What’s it all about: Today, all ages take
part in a tradition dating back over 1,000 years.
The most popular race is the gondalini regatta,
when the day sees St Mark’s Bay and the
Grand Canal packed with boats of every shape
and size. The athletic Venetian-style rowing
takes place standing up! The spectacular
historical pageant which heads the parade is a
reminder of Venice’s past glory, as well as the
major sporting event of the year for Venetians.
For more info: Watch the Venetian maritime
Olympics here: www.regatstoricavenezia.it
FESTIVAL DOLLS
SEPTEMBER: REGATA
STORICA (ITALY)
YOU WILL NEED
Q Sirdar Happy Cotton DK
(100% cotton, 20g/43m)
2 balls of Sandcastle (773)
Melon (794)
1 ball of each:
Shower (762)
Cookie (777)
Chilli (791)
Biscuit (776)
Q A 2.5mm (US B/1 or C/2) hook
Q A 2mm (US 4 Steel or B/1) hook
Q Stitch marker
Q Toy stuffing
Q 2 black safety eyes, 5mm diameter
Q Black stranded cotton
Q White glue
38 WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET
FESTIVAL DOLLS
Fasten off, leaving a long tail. Round 1 (RS) Ch1, 7dc in loop, ss to first dc to Round 17 Ch1, (9dc, 2dc in next st) 7 times, ss to
Sew the end of the Sash to Round 6 at the side join. [7 sts] first dc to join. [77 sts]
of the Body. Round 2 Ch1, 2dc in each st around, ss to first Round 18 Ch1, (5dc, 2dc in next st, 5dc) 7 times,
dc to join. [14 sts] ss to first dc to join. [84 sts]
SHOES (MAKE 2) Round 3 Ch1, (1dc, 2dc in next st) 7 times, ss to Round 19 Ch1, dc in each st around, ss to first
Using a 2.5mm hook and Cookie and with Doll first dc to join. [21 sts] dc to join.
upside down, join to first unworked fl from Round 4 Ch1, (1dc, 2dc in next st, 1dc] 7 times, Fasten off and weave in ends.
Round 3 of Leg. ss to first dc to join. [28 sts] Sew Hat to Head.
Round 1 (RS) Ss in each st around. [20 sts] Round 5 Ch1, (3dc, 2dc in next st) 7 times, ss to
Fasten off and weave in ends. first dc to join. [35 sts] LONG OAR
Round 6 Ch1, (2dc, 2dc in next st, 2dc) 7 times, Using a 2.5mm hook and Biscuit, ch7.
EARS (MAKE 2) ss to first dc to join. [42 sts] Round 1 Dc in second ch from hook, 4dc, 3dc
Using a 2.5mm hook and Sandcastle, make a Round 7 Ch1, (5dc, 2dc in next st) 7 times, ss to in next ch, turn to work across opposite side of
magic loop. first dc to join. [49 sts] foundation ch, 4dc, 2dc in next ch. [14 sts]
Round 1 (RS) Ch1, (4dc, 1ss) in loop. [5 sts] Round 8 Ch1, (3dc, 2dc in next st, 3dc) 7 times, Rounds 2-13 Dc in each st around.
Fasten off, leaving a long tail. ss to first dc to join. [56 sts] Round 14 *(Inv dec) twice, 3dc; rep from * once
Sew Ears to sides of Head, between Rounds Round 9 Ch1, (working in bl only) dc in each st more. [10 sts]
18-19 and approx 5 sts behind each eye. around, ss to first dc to join. Round 15 (Inv dec, 3dc) twice. [8 sts]
Rounds 10-11 Ch1, dc in each st around, ss to Round 16 (Inv dec, 2dc) twice. [6 sts]
HAIR first dc to join. Rounds 17-46 Dc in each st around.
Using a 2.5mm hook and Biscuit, embroider Round 12 Ch1, dc in each st around, change to Fasten off, leaving a long tail.
Hair strands using a series of vertical straight Chilli, ss in bl of first dc to join. Thread tail through the fl of each st and pull
lines in a tight zigzag pattern. Work sts over Round 13 (Working in bl only) ss in each st tight to close. Weave in ends.
Rounds 11-22 around back of Head and over around, ss in bl of first ss to join. Flatten Rounds 1-16. To shape the Oar, mix 1
Rounds 11-13 across forehead, using the image Round 14 Ch1, (working in bl only) dc in each st part white glue to 2 parts water. Immerse Oar in
as a guide. around, change to Melon, ss to first dc to join. glue mixture until wet. Gently squeeze out
Round 15 Ch1, (working in fl only) (3dc, 2dc in excess water, then use your fingers to shape.
HAT next st) 14 times, ss to first dc to join. [70 sts] Leave to dry.
Using a 2.5mm hook and Melon, make a magic Round 16 Ch1, dc in each st around, ss to first
loop. dc to join.
WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET 39
GERMANY
Oktoberfest
Where: Munich, Germany
When: 20 September – 5 October 2025
What’s it all about: The world’s largest fair,
also known as the Beerfest, attracts six million
people every year. It began as a royal wedding
celebration in 1810, and remains an important
part of Bavarian culture. To start the festival,
the mayor shouts, “O’zapft is!” which means “It
is tapped”, hammering a tap into a beer keg.
Fairground rides, music, beer, wine, lots of
toasts and Bavarian cuisine make the
atmosphere fun and often a little boisterous!
For more information: Don your Dirndl
apron or Lederhosen at www.oktoberfest.de
FESTIVAL DOLLS
OCTOBER:
OKTOBERFEST
(GERMANY)
YOU WILL NEED
Q Sirdar Happy Cotton DK
(100% cotton, 20g/43m)
2 balls of Sandcastle (773)
1 ball of each:
Splash (767)
Shower (762)
Liquorice (775)
Sundae (787)
Melon (794)
Q A 2.5mm (US B/1 or C/2) hook
Q Stitch marker
Q Toy stuffing
Q 2 black safety eyes, 5mm diameter
Q Black stranded cotton
OKTOBERFEST DOLL
Follow Basic Doll pattern on page 3 unless
other instructions are listed, using the following
colours:
Rounds 1-3 of Legs using Liquorice.
Round 4 of Legs using Liquorice, (working in bl
only) ss in each st around. [12 sts]
Round 5 of Legs using Sandcastle, (working in
blo only).
Rounds 6-24 of Legs using Sandcastle.
Using a length of Liquorice, embroider a shoe
strap across the top of each foot. throughout), (1tr, 2tr in next ch) 5 times, ss to BODY
Head using Sandcastle. first tr to join. [15 sts] Using a 2.5mm hook and Sandcastle, continue
Round 2 Ch2, tr in each st around, ss to first tr from right Leg.
SKIRT to join. Rounds 1-8 (RS) As Rounds 1-8 of Doll pattern.
Using Splash, ch30, ss in first ch being careful Round 3 Ch1, (working in bl only) (3dc, inv dec) Change to Splash.
not to twist the ch. 3 times, ss to first dc to join. [12 sts] Round 9 Dc in each st around.
Round 1 (RS) Ch3 (counts as a st throughout), Round 4 (Ch2, ss in next st) 12 times. Place Skirt on Body so that foundation ch of
tr in same ch, 1tr, (2tr in next ch, 1tr) 6 times, 2tr, Fasten off and weave in ends. Skirt is next to Round 9 of Body.
(2tr in next ch, 1tr) 7 times, ss to top of beg ch-3 Round 10 (Working through opposite side of
to join. [44 sts] ARMS (MAKE 2) foundation ch of Skirt and Round 9 of Body) dc
Round 2 Ch3, tr in next st, FPdtr in next st, (2tr, Using a 2.5mm hook and Sandcastle, make a in each st around. [30 sts]
FPdtr) 5 times, 8tr, (2tr, FPdtr) 6 times, ss to top magic loop. Rounds 11-15 As Rounds 11-15 of Doll pattern.
of beg ch-3 to join. Rounds 1-17 As Rounds 1-17 of Doll pattern. Round 16 11dc, change to Shower, dc in bl of
Round 3 Ch3, tr in each st around, ss to top of Change to Shower. next 6 sts, change to Splash, 7dc. [24 sts]
beg ch-3 to join. Round 18 2dc in next st, 8dc. [10 sts] Rounds 17-18 (Working in fl only), 11dc, change
Round 4 Ch3, 4tr, 2tr in next st, (10tr, 2tr in next Place Sleeve on Arm so foundation ch of Sleeve to Shower, 6dc, change to Splash, 7dc.
st) 3 times, 5tr, ss to top of beg ch-3 to join. is next to Round 18 of Arm. Round 19 Dc in fl of next 11 sts, change to
[48 sts] Round 19 (Working through foundation ch of Sandcastle, dc in bl of next 6 sts, change to
Round 5 Ch3, tr in each st around, ss to top of Sleeve and Round 18 of Arm together) dc in Splash, dc in bl of next 7 sts.
beg ch-3 to join. each st around. [10 sts] Round 20 2dc (to end centre back of Body), pm
Round 6 Ch3, 10tr, 2tr in next st, (11tr, 2tr in Round 20 (Left Arm) 9dc (to end above thumb). to denote new end of round [2 sts] Leave rem
next st) 3 times, ss to top of beg ch-3 to join. [9 sts] sts unworked.
[52 sts] Leave rem sts unworked. Stuff the Body. Arms are joined to the Body
Round 7 Ch3, tr in each st around, ss to top of Round 20 (Right Arm) 4dc (to end opposite over the next round. Make sure the thumb
beg ch-3 to join. side from thumb). [4 sts] points forwards as you join the Arm.
Fasten off and weave in ends. Leave rem sts unworked. Round 21 3dc, place left Arm next to Body, (dc
Fasten off. through 2 layers of Arm and next st of Body) 5
BLOUSE SLEEVES (MAKE 2) Lightly stuff the hand, leave the Arm unstuffed. times, dc in fl of next st, change to Sandcastle, dc
Sleeve is worked from the top down. Flatten the opening at the top of the Arm. in fl of next 6 sts, change to Splash, dc in fl of
Using a 2.5mm hook and Shower, ch10, ss in next st, place right Arm next to Body, (dc
first ch being careful not to twist the ch. through 2 layers of Arm and next st of Body) 5
Round 1 (RS) Ch2 (does not count as a st times, 3dc in Body. [24 sts]
42 WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET
FESTIVAL DOLLS
FROTH
Using a 2.5mm hook and Shower:
Round 1 Join with ss to last unworked bl of
Round 14 of Beer Mug (counts as first st), (ch2,
skip 1 st, ss in next st) 5 times. [6 sts]
Round 2 (Working in the unworked bl of
Round 13 of Beer Mug) (ch2, skip 1, ss in next st,
ch2, ss in next st) 6 times. [12 sts]
Fasten off and weave in ends.
BASE
Using Sundae and with Mug upside down, join
Change to Sandcastle. Round 2 2dc in each st around. [12 sts] to last unworked fl of Round 3 of Beer Mug.
Rounds 22-28 As Rnds 22-28 of Doll pattern. Round 3 (1dc, 2dc in next st) 6 times. [18 sts] Round 1 (RS) Ch1, dc in each st around, ss to
Using Shower and image as a guide, embroider Round 4 (1dc, 2dc in next st, 1dc] 6 times. first dc to join. [18 sts]
laces across front of bodice. Using Splash, [24 sts] Fasten off and weave in ends.
embroider a vertical straight line to either side Round 5 (3dc, 2dc in next st) 6 times. [30 sts]
of the bodice neckline. Round 6 (2dc, 2dc in next st, 2dc) 6 times. HANDLE
[36 sts] Using a 2.5mm hook and Sundae, ch11.
APRON Round 7 (5dc, 2dc in next st) 6 times. [42 sts] Row 1 Ss in second ch from hook and each ch
Using a 2.5mm hook and Shower and leaving a Round 8 (3dc, 2dc in next st, 3dc) 6 times. across. [10 sts]
long tail (makes Apron string) ch11. [48 sts] Fasten off, leaving a long tail.
Row 1 (RS) Tr in third ch from hook and each ch Round 9 (15dc, 2dc in next st) 3 times. [51 sts] Sew ends of Handle to side of Mug at Rounds 6
across, turn. [9 sts] Rounds 10-19 Dc in each st around. and 10.
Row 2 Ch3, tr in same st, 8tr, turn. [10 sts] Round 20 11dc, inv dec, 1htr, 9tr, 1htr, 1dc, 1ss,
Row 3 Ch3, tr in same st, 9tr, turn. [11 sts] 1dc, 1htr, 9tr, 1htr, inv dec, 11dc. [49 sts]
Row 4 Ch3, tr in same st, 10tr, turn. [12 sts] Fasten off, leaving a long tail.
Row 5 Ch3, tr in same st, 11tr, turn. [13 sts] Sew Hair to Head.
Row 6 Ch3, tr in same st, 12tr, turn. [14 sts]
Row 7 Ch3, tr in same st, 13tr, turn. [15 sts] BRAIDS (MAKE 3)
Row 8 Ch3 (does not count as st), skip 2 sts, ss in Using a 2.5mm hook and Sundae, ch81.
fl of next st, (ch3, skip 1 st, ss in fl of next st) 5 Row 1 Dc in second ch from hook and each ch
times, ch2, ss in fl of next st. [7 sts] across. [80 sts]
Fasten off and weave in ends. Fasten off, leaving a long tail.
Place Apron on Doll, wrap the Apron string Sew Braids at one end and plait them together,
around the Doll and sew to the opposite side of keeping the RS facing upwards. Wrap Braid
the Apron. around Hair and sew to Head.
WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET 43
MEXICO Day of the dead
Where: Mexico, worldwide
When: 1-2 November 2025
What’s it all about: Día de los Muertos is
celebrated across Mexico with colourful skulls,
skeletons and cemetery visits. Thousands of
years old, the festival gives people the chance
to honour, love and respect deceased family
members. Parties, costumes, parades, singing,
dancing and offerings to lost loved ones (often
made on altars decorated with marigolds),
occur throughout Hispanic communities.
For more info: Discover this mix of tradition,
magic and history at www.visit-mexico.mx
FESTIVAL DOLLS
NOVEMBER: DIA DE
LOS MUERTOS
(MEXICO)
YOU WILL NEED
Q Sirdar Happy Cotton DK
100% cotton, 20g/43m)
2 balls of Liquorice (775)
Dolly (761)
1 ball of each:
Jammy (755)
Biscuit (776)
Freckle (753)
Seaside (784)
Currant Bun (756)
Q A 2.5mm (US B/1 or C/2) hook
Q A 2mm (US 4 Steel or B/1) hook
Q Stitch marker
Q Toy stuffing
Q 2 black safety eyes, 12mm diameter
Q Black stranded cotton
ABBREVIATIONS
spiked dc Insert hook in next st 2 rounds
below, yrh and pull up a loop to the same
height as dc st, yrh and pull through 2 loops on
hook
third bl Insert hook into the third bl which sits
at the back of the htr st, leave the top 2 loops
unworked to form a ridge on the RS Rounds 15-16 Ch1, dc in each st around, ss to Change to Biscuit.
For a full list, see page 78 of Simply Crochet first dc to join. Rounds 21-28 As Rounds 21-28 of Doll pattern.
magazine Round 17 Ch1, htr in each st around, ss to first Fasten off.
htr to join. Stuff the Body and neck firmly.
DÍA DE LOS MUERTOS DOLL Fasten off.
Follow the Basic Doll pattern on page 3 unless Join Dolly to third bl of first st of Round 17. BLOUSE
other instructions are listed, using the following Round 18 Ch3, (working in third bl only) tr in Using a 2.5mm hook and Liquorice, ch24, ss in
colours: each st around, ss to top of beg ch-3 to join. first ch being careful not to twist the ch.
Arms using Biscuit. [52 sts] Round 1 (RS) Ch1, (3dc, 2dc in next ch, 4dc, 2dc
Rounds 1-3 of Legs using Jammy. Round 19 Ch3, 5tr, 2tr in next st, (12tr, 2tr in in next ch, 3dc) twice, ss to first dc to join.
Round 4 of Legs using Jammy, (working in bl next st) 3 times, 6tr, ss to top of beg ch-3 to join. [28 sts]
only) ss in each st around. [12 sts] [56 sts] Round 2 Ch1, (3dc, 2dc in next st, 3dc) 4 times,
Round 5 of Legs using Biscuit, (working in bl Round 20 Ch3, tr in each st around, ss to top of ss to first dc to join. [32 sts]
only). beg ch-3 to join. [56 sts] Round 3 Ch1, (4dc, 2dc in next st, 6dc, 2dc in
Rounds 6-24 of Legs using Biscuit. Round 21 Skip joining st, htr in next st, (1ss, next st, 4dc) twice, ss to first dc to join. [36 sts]
1htr) 27 times, ss to joining ss of Round 20. Round 4 Ch1, (4dc, 2dc in next st, 4dc) 4 times,
SKIRT [55 sts] ss to first dc to join. [40 sts]
Using a 2.5mm hook and Liquorice, ch30, ss in Fasten off and weave in ends. Round 5 Ch1, (5dc, 2dc in next st, 8dc, 2dc in
first ch being careful not to twist the ch. Using Jammy, embroider small flowers across next st, 5dc) twice, ss to first dc to join. [44 sts]
Round 1 (RS) Ch3 (counts as a st throughout), Round 16 of Skirt, using image as a guide. Round 6 Ch1, (5dc, 2dc in next st, 5dc) 4 times,
tr in same ch, 2tr, (2tr in next ch, 2tr) 9 times, ss ss to first dc to join. [48 sts]
to top of beg ch-3 to join. [40 sts] BODY Round 7 Ch1, (5dc, 2dc in next st, ch4, skip 12
Rounds 2-5 Ch1, dc in each st around, ss to first Using a 2.5mm hook and Biscuit, continue from sts, 2dc in next st, 5dc) twice, ss to first dc to
dc to join. right Leg. join. [28 sts]
Round 6 Ch1, (9dc, 2dc in next st) 4 times, ss to Rounds 1-8 As Rounds 1-8 of Doll pattern on Round 8 Ch1, (7dc, 4dc in ch, 7dc) twice, ss to
first dc to join. [44 sts] page 3. first dc to join. [36 sts]
Rounds 7-9 Ch1, dc in each st around, ss to first Change to Liquorice. Rounds 9-12 Ch1, dc in each st around, ss to
dc to join. Round 9 Dc in each st around. first dc to join.
Round 10 Ch1, (5dc, 2dc in next st, 5dc) 4 times, Place Skirt on Body so that foundation ch of Fasten off and weave in ends.
ss to first dc to join. [48 sts] Skirt is next to Round 9 of Body. Using Jammy and the image as a guide,
Round 11-13 Ch1, dc in each st around, ss to Round 10 (Working through opposite side of embroider small flowers across Round 3 of
first dc to join. foundation ch of Skirt and Round 10 of Body), Blouse. Using Freckle, add flowers across front
Round 14 Ch1, (11dc, 2dc in next st) 4 times, ss dc in each st around. [30 sts] of Blouse, over Rounds 5, 8 and 11. Using
to first dc to join. [52 sts] Rounds 11-20 As Rounds 11-20 of Doll pattern. Seaside, add small stems at the base of each
46 WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET
FESTIVAL DOLLS
HAIR BUN
Using a 2.5mm hook and Currant Bun, make a
magic loop.
Round 1 (RS) Ch1, 6dc in loop, ss in fl of first dc
to join. [6 sts]
Round 2 *Ch33, tr in fourth ch from hook, 2tr in
next ch, (1tr, 2tr in next ch) 14 times, skip 2 sts of
Round 1, ss in fl of next st; rep from * once
more, ss in fl of next st.
Fasten off, leaving a long tail for sewing.
Sew Round 1 of Bun to side of Hair. Twist the
ch-33 locks, forming 2 long, tight curls. Wrap
the curls around themselves and sew in place.
WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET 47
D
THE WORL
ALL OVER
Christmas
Where: All over the world
When: 24-25 December 2025
What’s it all about: A Christian festival
celebrating the birth of Jesus, it coincides with
earlier festivals celebrating the winter solstice
such as Yule. Family, lots of food, a Christmas
tree, holly, stockings, gifts and decorations
take centre stage. Celebrating the feast day
of Saint Nicholas and Nordic folktales, today
Santa Claus or Father Christmas lives in
Lapland, and carries gifts for good children all
around the world on Christmas Eve.
For more info: Meet Santa Claus and cross
the Arctic Circle at www.santaclausvillage.info
FESTIVAL DOLLS
DECEMBER: CHRISTMAS ELF PATTERN Round 16 (2dc, 2dc in next st) 3 times. [12 sts]
Follow the Basic Doll pattern on page 3 unless Place Sleeve on Arm so Round 6 of Sleeve is
CHRISTMAS other instructions are listed, using the following next to Round 14 of Arm.
(WORLDWIDE) colours:
Rounds 1-11 of Legs using Chilli.
Round 17 (Working through Round 6 of Sleeve
and Round 16 of Arm together) dc in each st
Round 12 of Legs using Cherryade, (working in around.
YOU WILL NEED bl only) ss in each st around [12 sts]. Round 18 Dc in each st around.
Q Sirdar Happy Cotton DK Round 13 of Legs using Cherryade, (working in Round 19 (Inv dec, 4dc) twice. [10 sts]
(100% cotton, 20g/43m) bl only). Round 20 (Left Arm) 7dc (to end above thumb).
2 balls of Cherryade (754) Rounds 14-24 using Cherryade. [7 sts] Leave rem sts unworked.
1 ball of each: Head using Biscuit. Round 20 (Right Arm) 3dc (to end opposite
Treetop (780) side from thumb). [3 sts]
Biscuit (776) SLEEVES (MAKE 2) Leave rem sts unworked.
Chilli (791) Using Treetop, ch18, ss in first ch being careful
Melon (794) not to twist the ch. BODY
Dolly (761) Round 1 (RS) Ch1, dc in each ch around. [18 sts] Using Cherryade, continue from right Leg.
Q A 2.5mm (US B/1 or C/2) hook Round 2 (7dc, inv dec) twice. [16 sts] Rounds 1-7 As Rounds 1-7 of Doll pattern on.
Q Stitch marker Round 3 Dc in each st around. Change to Treetop.
Q Toy stuffing Round 4 (3dc, inv dec, 3dc) twice. [14 sts] Round 8 Dc in each st around. [30 sts]
Q 2 black safety eyes, 5mm diameter Round 5 Dc in each st around. Round 9 (Working in bl only) dc in each st
Q Black stranded cotton Round 6 (5dc, inv dec) twice. [12 sts] around.
Fasten off and weave in ends. Rounds 10-20 As Rounds 10-20 of Doll pattern.
ABBREVIATIONS Stuff the Body.
dc3tog (insert hook in next st, yrh and draw a ARMS (MAKE 2) Arms are joined to the Body over the next
loop through) 3 times, yrh and draw through all Using Biscuit make a magic loop. round. Make sure the thumb points forwards as
4 loops on hook Rounds 1-6 As Rounds 1-6 of Doll pattern. you join the Arm.
For a full list, see page 78 of Simply Crochet Change to Cherryade. Round 21 3dc, place left Arm next to Body, (dc
magazine Rounds 7-15 As Rounds 7-15 of Doll pattern. through 2 layers of Arm and next st of Body) 5
Change to Treetop. times, 8dc in Body, place right Arm next to
Body, (dc through 2 layers of Arm and next st of
Body) 5 times, 3dc in Body. [24 sts]
Round 22 (1dc, inv dec) 8 times. [16 sts]
Change to Cherryade.
Round 23 (Working in bl only) (2dc, dc2tog) 4
times. [12 sts]
Rounds 24-28 As Rounds 24-28 of Doll pattern.
TUNIC
Using a 2.5mm hook and Treetop and with Doll
upside down, join to first unworked fl from
Round 8 of Body.
Round 1 (RS) Ch1, dc in each st around, ss to
first dc to join. [30 sts]
Fasten off and weave in ends.
COLLAR
Using a 2.5mm hook and Treetop and with Doll
upside down, join to the st to the left of the
centre front fl of Round 22 of Body.
Round 1 (RS) Ch1, (2dc, 2dc in next st) twice,
3dc, (2dc in next st, 2dc) twice, turn. [19 sts]
Leave centre fl unworked.
Round 2 (WS) Ch1, (4dc, 2dc in next st) 3 times,
4dc, turn. [22 sts]
Round 3 Ch1, 2dc, 2dc in next st, 5dc, 2dc in
next st, 4dc, 2dc in next st, 5dc, 2dc in next st,
1dc, (1dc, ch2, 1dc) in next st, rotate and work
1dc in row edge, ss in centre fl of Round 22 of
Body, rotate and work in row edges on
opposite side of collar, 2dc, ch2, ss to first st of
Round 3 to join. [32 sts]
Fasten off and weave in ends.
Sew collar in place. Using Melon, embroider 3
French knots down the front for the buttons.
50 WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET
FESTIVAL DOLLS
HOOD Fasten off, leaving a long tail. Fasten off, leaving a long tail.
Using a 2.5mm hook and Cherryade, ch55. Sew Ears to either side of the Hood, between Thread tail through the fl of each st and pull
Row 1 Dc in second ch from hook and each ch Rows 4-5, leaving pointy tips loose. tight to close. Weave in ends.
across, turn. [54 sts] Using Chilli, wrap yarn around the Gift Box and
Rows 2-19 Ch1, dc in each st across, turn. GIFT BOX tie with a bow.
[54 sts] Using a 2.5mm hook and Melon, make a magic
Row 20 Ch1, dc in each st across. loop.
Fasten off, leaving a long tail. Round 1 (RS) Ch1, 6dc in loop, ss to first dc to
Fold Hood in half so short ends meet. Using join. [6 sts]
whip stitch, sew along Row 20 to join the 2 Round 2 Ch1, 2dc in each st around, ss to first
layers. Turn Hood inside out. dc to join. [12 sts]
Using Dolly, embroider strands of hair across Round 3 Ch1, (2dc, 3dc in next st) 4 times, ss to
front of forehead and below where the Hood first dc to join. [20 sts]
will sit (approx Rounds 7-11). Round 4 Ch1, (3dc, 3dc in next st, 1dc) 4 times,
Using Cherryade, weave yarn through row ss to first dc to join. [28 sts]
edges of Hood. Use yarn as a drawstring to Round 5 Ch1, (working in bl only) dc in each st
tighten base of Hood around the back of the around, ss to first dc to join.
Head, making a bow below the chin to secure. Rounds 6-10 Ch1, dc in each st around, ss to
first dc to join.
EARS (MAKE 2) Round 11 Ch1, (working in bl only) (4dc,
Using a 2.5mm hook and Biscuit, make a magic dc3tog) 4 times, ss to first dc to join. [20 sts]
loop. Round 12 Ch1, skip first st, (2dc, dc3tog) 3
Row 1 Ch1, 6dc in loop, turn. [6 sts] times, 2dc, inv dec, ss to first dc to join. [12 sts]
Row 2 Ch4, ss in second ch from hook, dc in Lightly stuff the Gift Box.
next ch, htr in next ch, dc in next st of Row 1, Round 13 Ch1, (inv dec) 6 times, ss to first st to
5ss. [9 sts] join. [6 sts]
WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYCROCHET 51
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