New Patterns NOW Available in Ad-Free PDF! Check out The Pattern Shop

Why You Should Use That Precious, “Too Nice,” Amazing…

By Leave a Comment

don't wait to use your best yarn

Hi, it’s Kathryn (Marly’s blog content director) here today. My personal area of specialty is working at the intersection of art/craft and healing – specifically using knitting and crochet to improve your mental health and quality of life. So, once or twice a month, I’ll be popping up here on the blog to share some thoughts with you about that. Today’s tip: don’t wait to use your luxury yarn. You know, the yarn that’s expensive, precious fiber that you’ve been putting off using until “someday.” Someday is today and you deserve to use that yarn right now. This post is an excerpt from my book “Hook to Heal: 100 Crochet Exercises for Health, Growth, Connection, Inspiration, and Honoring Your Inner Artist.“

Note: This post includes affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, Marly gets a small percentage of the sale. It’s a great way to support her and your own price doesn’t change at all.

Use the “Nice China,” Wear the “Nice Dress” and Knit or Crochet with the “Nice Yarn”

I thought of this exercise from my book Hook to Heal because of an entirely unrelated book that I was reading. In the memoir All Happy Families, Jeanne McCulloch writes:

“Look, china breaks, that doesn’t mean you don’t use it.

Look, a heart breaks, that doesn’t mean you don’t use it.”

It reminded me of how often we are afraid to use the wonderful things in life. As if we must save them for a “better” time when we “deserve” them more. But the time is now. And we make our lives richer when we use the nice things. And often when we use our “nice” things, more nice things come to us. But we fail to do in part because of a fear of scarcity. Here’s what I wrote about that in Hook to Heal, in the chapter on Creating Abundance:

yarn is luxurious

Holding Back Due to Fear of Scarcity

Fear of scarcity shows up as a frequent problem in creative lives. So does it’s flip side: fear of abundance.

Fear of scarcity comes from this feeling that there is not enough. Therefore, you must hoard what you have. In contrast, fear of abundance comes from the belief that if you have too much then you’ll have problems associated with corruption and obsession with material goods over spiritual matters.

In both cases, the fear creatively restricts the individual. And let me just say that most of us do have one or the other or perhaps even both of these fears. By building abundance in our creative work, we are able to generate more of the things that we want. We do this not only for ourselves but to give to the world around us.

Don’t Save Luxury Yarn and Other Nice Things For Later

One of the most basic, and very common, ways that this manifests in people’s everyday lives is in the “saving” of nice things “for the right occasion”. In recent history, we typically saw this with “the good china”. The most beautiful dishes were only taken out to celebrate huge holidays at home and collected dust the rest of the year. Although this sometimes still happens, what is even more common now is to save our favorite clothing for some other day instead of just wearing it “for no reason”.

Think about it; do you have a favorite dress or even a favorite t-shirt or pair of jeans that makes you feel so great when you put it on that you never want to wear it just to go to the store but instead save it for some “big event”? So often, those events don’t come. Or if they do, you have ten different things to wear that you’ve been “saving”. You can celebrate abundance in your everyday life by allowing yourself to use all of the things that are special, that make you feel great. Yes, even in a pandemic when you’re not seeing anyone outside your house, you can wear the nice dress.

Want to know the story about how I used my grandmother’s satin napkins – a wedding present that had gone unopened for half a century? That’s in Hook to Heal.

There is certainly a time and place for really fabulous things – the wedding dress or the irreplaceable ancient heirloom – but for the most part our nice things can be used in regular life, adding abundance to the everyday and infusing life with more magic. And you can start with using your luxury yarn.

treat yourself to yarn you love

Life is Abundant and Luxury Yarn Represents That

Crafters hoard their nice yarn out of fear of scarcity – or fear of abundance. I love to buy expensive hand-dyed hand-spun luxury yarn. I especially love to make those purchases at fiber festivals where I can sometimes meet the animals that gave their wool to me.

But then I don’t want to use those yarns because usually I’m just making some random item that is a lot more about process than product. Therefore, it seems like a “waste” to use that yarn on a random granny square that doesn’t even have an intended purpose yet. And that’s okay in its way. I can keep a few of those skeins on my work table and handle them and enjoy their texture just the way that they are. However, I have to be careful not to let my stash of “too good” yarn overtake my space while only using the yarn that doesn’t feel “as good”. We deserve to work with the luxury yarn. We shouldn’t relegate ourselves to the “less good.”

Life is abundant. My dictionary says first that it’s “a very large quantity of something,” However, it then goes on to a definition I like better which is: “the state or condition of having a copious quantity of something; plentifulness”. It’s not about having excess; it’s about having plenty. Ultimately, it’s about having a lot of what we want and knowing that there’s more around the corner. My dictionary’s example is “vines and figs grew in abundance.” I love that image. Nobody needs tons of vines and figs but isn’t it so beautiful that they grow in abundance?! And when we look for it in the right places and treat ourselves to it in the right ways, we have beautiful abundance as well.

Life so often feels scarce. We have too limit time. We have too little resources. Perhaps we worry that we don’t have enough love or that we ourselves aren’t “enough.” But actually, life is abundant. We often have plenty. And the more we embrace and enjoy things like the luxury yarn we already have in our stash, the more we feel that abundance. It’s a good feeling.

Exercise for Creating Abundance: Use Your Luxury Yarn

embrace abundance

The exercise: Use your nicest skein of luxury yarn to crochet something frivolous.

The purpose: Use something that you’re afraid to let go of in order to open the door for more to come in.

Operating from a fear of scarcity can severely limit your experiences of life. It can be helpful to build up your faith and trust that there will indeed be enough, that your family will always get fed and the universe will provide you with creative tools and that there is always more yarn where that came from!

What is Luxury Yarn?

Luxury yarn might be one-of-a-kind, hands-on, hand-dyed yarn made of a really unique fiber such as yak wool. However, it doesn’t have to be that. In fact, it might not even be expensive. Luxury yarn or the “nice yarn” in your stash is just whatever you love so much that you’ve been a little afraid to use it up. It might be a really soft wool or a particular color of a favorite yarn that you’re worried you’ll never find again. What is luxury yarn to you?

Fun fact: Back in 2015, Marly interviewed designer and author Cirilia Rose who was working with Zealana to promote their possom yarn. It’s actually a luxury yarn!

Marly’s also shared Kristin Omdahl’s Bamboo So Fine luxury yarn. And she’s chatted multiple times with Knitlandia author Clara Parkes; when her book Knitlandia came out it stimulated a conversation in the comments all about the joys of cashmere yarn. And in a review of Sandi Rosner’s 21 Crocheted Tanks and Tunics, she wrote, “Yarns chosen were intended for summer or warmer climates, so she looked for washables in linen, cotton, bamboo, silks are not generally machine washable, but a luxury fiber can be so worth it.”

And a tip: SOAK Wash is one option for washing items knit and crocheted with luxury yarn.

Yarnspirations Luxury Yarns

You can find quite a few luxurious yarns over at Yarnspirations. To get started, you might want to check out:

And of course Marly’s Chic Sheep Yarn, which is 100% merino wool, is always a treat to work with!

Luxury Yarn Exercise Steps:

  1. Take out your most precious skein of yarn. You know the one, the one that you felt a little bit guilty paying so much money for and have had in your stash for three years now because you are waiting for the exact right item to make with this super special skein of yarn.
  2. Crochet something less-than-special with that skein of yarn. Make a dishcloth or a really basic scarf. Or make something nice that you’ve really wanted to make if you must, but the more mundane, perhaps the better.
  3. Enjoy this new thing that you’ve made. Use it. Or place it where you can see it every day. Heck, crochet a granny square or knit a rectangle then place it in a frame and hang it on the wall to enjoy.
  4. Go to the yarn store and buy a new special skein of yarn. Take your time to find one that really calls out to you. This is reinforcement for your brain that there is always more out there.

Bonus Tips for This Exercise

  • Keep your best skeins of yarn out where you can see them and enjoy them and get inspired to use them!
  • Ask yourself how “Step Two” above made you feel. Many people react strongly to this part. You might want to journal about this.
  • If you can’t go buy a new skein of luxury yarn right now (Step Four above), that’s okay. Go through your stash of yarn and see which skein calls out to you as the most precious skein now that the favorite one has been all used up. You will likely discover that your view has shifted and a skein you previously thought was “okay” is now “the best”. Challenge your perspective.

Taking it further: Donate your crocheted item to a thrift store. You have no way of knowing if it will be treated well and that beautiful skein might very well be “wasted”. It’s okay. Really. Confront your feelings about this in your crochet journal. Yarn is a safe space to explore very complex psychological challenges in life. When you do, you might find that you get stronger in other areas of life as well.

Marly Bird Knit and Crochet Patterns Using Luxury Yarn

You can use your luxury yarn to make anything that you want. If you need inspiration, here are some of Marly’s patterns that have used special yarn:

Stellar Stripes Shawl: Available in Knit and Crochet Patterns

The stellar stripes shawl, available as both a crochet pattern and a knit pattern, uses Bijou Basin Sport yarn, which is 100% Yak Yarn.

striped crochet shawl pattern

Pink Courage Chemo & Breast Cancer Awareness Knit Cap Pattern

pink courage chemo cap free knit pattern

Chemo caps are made with soft yarns because people going through cancer treatment have sensitive skin. What a great way to use luxury yarn. Marly provides several luxury yarn options for this pattern, including Stunning String Studio’s Luxury Fingering Yarn, which is a blend that includes merino wool and goat cashmere fiber.

Topping Knit Scarf Pattern

Topping Scarf Knit Pattern by Marly Bird

This knit scarf pattern uses one skein of Bijou Basin Ranch “Lhasa Wilderness.” This luxury yarn is 75% yak/ 25% bamboo fiber. Luscious.

Trail Hoodie Knit Pattern

trail hoodie knitting pattern by Marly Bird

This pattern uses Bijou Spun “Himalayan Trail” by Bijou Basin Ranch. This luxury yarn is 75% yak/ 25% merino wool.

Drew Sweater Vest Knit Pattern

men's sweater vest knit pattern

This men’s sweater vest pattern, inspired by fellow designer Drew Emborsky, is knit with a 100% fine merino yarn.

You Might Also Like:

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do crafters hoard “precious” yarn without using it?

Oh, this is so relatable! We save special yarn because we want to use it for exactly the right project… and that perfect project never quite materializes. Or we’re afraid of “wasting” it on something that doesn’t turn out perfectly. Or we just love having it and worry that using it means it’ll be gone. The “precious yarn hoarding” tendency is universal in the crafting community and it comes from a place of genuine love for beautiful fiber… but it also means our most treasured skeins sometimes sit untouched for years while we reach for the “good enough” yarn instead.

What’s the argument for using luxury yarn now rather than saving it?

Because yarn ages and you age… and a beautiful skein kept in a drawer gives you exactly zero joy compared to something made from it that you can touch, wear, and share. Luxury yarn loses nothing by being made into something beautiful. A finished object in that precious cashmere or hand-dyed silk will bring you daily joy for years. The skein in the drawer brings you a theoretical future joy that keeps getting postponed. And practically speaking… moths, accidents, fires, moves… yarn in storage faces risks that a finished beloved object in your wardrobe does not.

How do I choose the right project for a special yarn skein?

Ask yourself: what would make this yarn MOST itself? A beautiful hand-dyed silk deserves something that shows off its drape and sheen… a shawl, a cowl. A luxurious cashmere-blend wants to be something that touches your skin daily. A unique single skein of indie dyer magic deserves a project where you’ll see all of it… not hidden in the sleeve of a sweater. The project that honors the yarn is the right project. And if you’re not sure? A swatch is a great starting point… it gives you a feel for the yarn without committing to a specific project.

What if I use the precious yarn and the project doesn’t turn out well?

Then you frog it (rip it out) and try again with a different pattern or different construction! Yarn doesn’t wear out from being worked and re-worked unless you’re excessively rough with it. The yarn is still there, still beautiful, still available for another try. And even a “failed” project taught you something about what that yarn needs. The real loss would be never using it at all. Give yourself permission to experiment… luxury yarn would rather be part of a learning experience than sit in a drawer forever.

What’s a good first project for using a precious yarn skein?

Something small and high-impact that showcases the yarn! A one-skein shawlette or cowl in a simple stitch that lets the yarn shine. A pair of fingerless mitts in a beautiful but forgiving construction. A delicate hat. The project should be: sized for one skein (so you don’t feel limited by quantity), relatively simple (so the yarn does the work), and something you’ll actually use and see regularly. Don’t save your best yarn for a complex project that might intimidate you into never starting… use it in something achievable and beautiful.

Craft as Therapy: Maximize the Cozy in Crochet and Knitting

By 1 Comment

Hi, Kathryn here, Marly’s blog content director, sharing some thoughts with you on how to make the most of cozy crochet and knitting to improve your life through crafting.

Crochet and knitting can be such healing crafts for so many different reasons. One of the core reasons, although sometimes overlooked in discussions about craft as therapy, is that yarn crafting is COZY. Call it “hygge” or “homey” or whatever word feels right for you, but frankly yarn just makes us feel all safe and warm and snug as a bug. The texture of working with a soft yarn, the feeling of a cozy shawl wrapped around you … it truly helps. And simply by tuning in to what’s cozy about crafting, we can make our lives feel better in ways big and small.

NOTE: This post contains affiliate links. If you click a link and make a purchase then I get a small percentage of the sale. Your price does not change. Thank you for your support.

That Feeling of Being COZY

Cozy hand in a chunky gray knitted sleeve on soft fabric, promoting therapeutic crafting.

As I write this, I’m sitting propped up against a full-sized body pillow, wearing that oversized chunky wool crochet sweater that you see a glimpse of in the photo above. My pup is cuddled up next to me and a mug of hot chocolate at the ready. I am cozy, which is one of my most favorite feelings in the world. While I love to feel inspired, invigorated, and so many other things, what I want on most days is to feel cozy. I like cozy crochet, cozy homes, cozy moments.

When I think about being cozy, I think about the utter comfort of respite. I am cozy when I am in my favorite pjs, under my favorite blanket, with one or more of the people I love the most. I feel cozy in front of a roaring fire, reading a favorite book, in conversation on the couch with my best friend. When I feel cozy, it’s a break from all of the hectic things in the world. It is a place of rest, reprieve … not even rejuvenation (though it leads to that) but just calm lovingness.

And so of course I want to find ways to utilize my love of crochet to get even more cozy. It is a craft that lends itself well to the concept of cozy. Yarn is cozy, especially plush yarn. It is cozy to work with and cozy to wear and cozy to wrap up in on a cold day. But how can we take its natural qualities even further to intentionally create even more coziness for ourselves? That’s what I hope to encourage you to do here, with some ideas of my own that I hope will also inspire you to come up with your own cozy approach to craft as therapy.

Of course course, cozy is going to mean different things to different people. There are certain things that many of us find to be cozy – warm drinks in our hands, warm blankets wrapped around us, warm fuzzies from great moments in relationships. But “cozy” is also related to nostalgia, to the things that make us feel safest and calmest. So as you work with the concept of coziness in your own crochet or knitting, you might want to take the time to journal and muse upon what truly feels most cozy for you.

knit half circle shawl pattern

An Exercise in COZY: Making a Knit or Crochet Shawl

The crochet shawl can be one of the most powerful cozy items that we ever make. The shawl has long been an object for intentional crafting – a prayer shawl, which can be adapted to your own unique religious / spiritual traditions is something that is specifically intended to bring comfort and care to the recipient. You infuse it with your love and good intentions and share that through each stitch. Then the person who receives the gift receives that love and literally wraps it around themselves. And you can take that approach to making yourself cozy through crafting, by making a shawl just for yourself.

 Tip: If you really don’t see yourself even using a shawl, you can crochet yourself a blanket instead. Large shawl patterns even work as lap blankets.

A Note on Prayer Shawls

We’ve talked about prayer shawls a lot in recent posts so I won’t go into that more here but check out this post for a good starting point:

define prayer shawl

The post shares a lot about what prayer shawls are. Moreover, it links to 40 knit and crochet prayer shawl patterns. Okay, now back to getting cozy with your own crochet shawl …

What Is Cozy For You in Knitting and Crochet?

First, let’s explore a few questions about what feels cozy to you in crochet. Consider the following:

  • What fiber immediately comes to mind when you think of “cozy”?
  • Which colors would you like to be wrapped in to get cozy?
  • What yarn weight is going to feel the most cozy wrapped around your shoulders?
  • How large or small does a knit or crochet shawl need to be for you to feel like it’s truly cozy?
  • Is there anything else that your knit or crochet shawl needs to feel cozy?

Picking a Cozy Knit or Crochet Shawl Pattern

With the answers to those questions in mind, it is time to pick a crochet shawl pattern. The prayer shawl patterns we’ve rounded up previously are a great place to start:

cozy knitting and crochet

How to Maximize COZY in Knit and Crochet Shawl Making

Once you have the crochet pattern in hand and you get your supplies ready, it is time to craft your knit or crochet shawl. To do this, you want to really infuse your space with utmost coziness.

Consider this a very special gift of comfort to yourself and take it seriously when crafting it.

Making Your Space Cozy

Let’s consider some of the ways that you might want to make your craft space more cozy:

  • How can you alter the lighting in a way that facilitates crafting but is still cozy?
  • What is the coziest spot in your house for knitting or crochet?
  • What can you add to your craft area to make it cozier? Pillows, blankets, a space heater, a cute rug, a pot of tea, an essential oil diffuser, candles … what is going to be most cozy for you?
  • What sounds do you want to hear to feel cozy as you craft? Find cozy music or background noise or silence.
  • What else do you need to make your space cozy?
cozy crafting

Craft as Therapy: Being Intentional and Cozy as You Stitch

As you sit down to work on this shawl, take a moment to really settle in. Relax your shoulders, feeling them drop down away from your ears, creating space in your body. Take a few slow, deep breaths. Remember that your intention is to be as cozy as possible. Really give yourself the chance to take this crafting time slowly so that it is as comfy as possible.

As you work on this crochet shawl, you might want to use prayer shawl techniques to craft an intention into each stitch. It may be as simple as repeating the affirmation, “I deserve to be cozy.” Other affirmations include “I am cozy,” “cozy is comfy” and “crafting keeps me cozy.”

When the knit or crochet shawl is complete, it can be helpful to do some kind of closing ritual for the shawl before you begin to wear it. Here is an example of such a ritual:

  • Light a candle and take a moment to relax. 
  • Lay the crochet shawl out in front of you. Touch it and really take in the tactile sensation.
  • Give gratitude to the shawl for allowing you the time and space to embrace coziness while crafting.
  • Set an intention that each time you wear the shawl you will be reminded the respite of being cozy.
  • Ask the shawl to share in your intention. (Yes, I know, this can feel cheesy, but these rituals can be so empowering if we can get past how cheesy they feel!)
  • Say your affirmation – “I deserve cozy” or “I embrace cozy”, for example.
  • Place the shawl around your shoulders and revel in the coziness for as long as you can.
  • Blow out the candle.

Try to remember this ritual each time that you wear that shawl. You don’t have to repeat the ritual (though you can) but just take a moment to reflect upon it and remember how good cozy can feel.

We want to know what cozy means for you in crafting? Share a cozy knit or crochet experience with us in the comments or on social media!

You Might Also Like These COZY Knit and Crochet Patterns:

cozy crochet and knit ponchos
stitch for yourself

Also, learn about crochet and knitting as occupational therapy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does knitting and crochet actually have therapeutic benefits?

Yes… and there’s real research supporting it! The repetitive hand movements in knitting and crochet activate the relaxation response, reducing heart rate and blood pressure. The focus required creates a flow state similar to meditation that quiets anxious thoughts. Bilateral movement (using both hands) stimulates both brain hemispheres. The sense of accomplishment from finishing a project builds confidence. And the social aspects of craft communities combat loneliness and isolation. Multiple studies have documented improvements in mood, reduced anxiety symptoms, and even benefits for chronic pain management from regular crafting practice.

What is “hygge” and how does crafting relate to it?

Hygge (a Danish concept… pronounced roughly “hoo-ga”) is the art of creating cozy, warm, comfortable moments and atmosphere. It’s about savoring simple pleasures, being present, and cultivating a feeling of wellbeing. Crafting is a perfect hygge activity… you’re creating something with your hands, you’re often in a cozy setting with a warm drink, and the rhythmic nature of the work invites slowing down and being present. Making handmade items for your home and loved ones is deeply hygge. The yarn crafting community and the hygge philosophy are natural allies.

How can I make my crafting time more therapeutic?

Set the scene! A comfortable chair, good lighting, and your favorite drink creates a crafting environment that supports wellbeing. Choose projects that match your current mental state… if you’re anxious, a simple, familiar stitch you can work without concentration. If you need stimulation, try something technically engaging. Work without screens competing for attention when you want a truly meditative experience. Join a crafting community (online or in person) for the social aspect. And make things that matter to you… gifts for people you love, items for your home, or projects that connect you to something meaningful.

Can crafting help with anxiety and stress?

Many people find it genuinely helps! The focused attention that crafting requires naturally draws your mind away from rumination and worry… it’s very hard to catastrophize about work when you’re counting stitches. The physical sensation of yarn and the productive hand movement are calming. The sense of accomplishment from creating something is mood-lifting. And knitting or crochet gives you a socially acceptable way to keep your hands busy… which helps a lot of anxious people who struggle with idle moments. It’s not a replacement for professional support, but it’s a genuinely powerful complementary tool for managing daily stress.

Are certain types of projects more therapeutic than others?

It really depends on what you need! For mindfulness and meditation-like calm: simple, repetitive projects you can work without charts (garter stitch scarves, basic blankets). For engaging distraction from anxiety: more complex patterns that require enough attention to quiet the noise in your head. For a sense of accomplishment: projects that have visible progress and a clear completion point. For social connection: group projects, make-alongs, and community crafting. The most therapeutic project is the one that meets your current emotional need… there’s no universally “most calming” craft.

51 Free Checks and Blocks Crochet and Knitting Patterns

By Leave a Comment

Checks and blocks are classic patterns that can be made in so many ways! Whether you’re doing a bright gingham, a classic checkerboard, multi-colored blocks, or using texture instead of color, there’s a way to interpret this pattern your way.

Download the 51 Yarnspirations patterns for checks and blocks patterns to crochet and knit and get started on your next project today!

51 Free Checks & Blocks Crochet and Knitting Patterns

Checked Patterns

These classic checkerboard patterns alternate squares of two colors.

Gingham Patterns

Gingham is traditionally a mix of a bold color — often red — and white, in a checkerboard pattern. These gingham patterns include traditional gingham patterns and some untraditional gingham patterns in alternate colors.

Block Patterns

Colorful blocks — of three, four, or more different colors — are arranged together. Some of the blocks are striped, and they may have a border around them.

Textured Patterns

Solid-color patterns with multiple textures create a checkerboard pattern from the contrast.

51 Free Checks & Blocks Crochet and Knitting Patterns

Also on the Blog

Frequently Asked Questions

What are “checks and blocks” patterns in knitting and crochet?

Checks and blocks patterns create a grid or checkerboard-like visual effect through color alternation, texture alternation (raised vs. recessed squares), or a combination of both. Classic checkerboard colorwork alternates two colors in equal-sized squares. Textural checks alternate raised stitches (like cables or post stitches) with recessed plain stitches to create a dimensional block pattern in one color. The 51 patterns in this collection showcase both approaches in beautiful variety across different project types.

Are checks and blocks patterns good for beginners?

Many of them are! Simple two-color checkerboard patterns are very beginner-accessible especially when the color changes happen at row beginnings rather than within rows. Basic textural block patterns using post stitches are intermediate. The collection spans skill levels so you can find something appropriate regardless of where you are in your crafting journey. The geometric, regular nature of checks and blocks makes them particularly good teaching patterns because the repeat is so logical and consistent.

What’s the easiest way to create a checkerboard effect?

Alternating rows of two colors in equal-width blocks is the simplest approach! Work 4 rows in Color A, 4 rows in Color B, and stagger the block placement every other pair of color sections. For a true checkerboard, each block needs to be directly above a different color from the row below. The staggering is what creates the checker effect rather than horizontal stripes. Using a chart makes the color placement logic immediately visual. Start with a small swatch to understand the pattern before committing to a full project.

How do I prevent color bleeding in a crochet or knit checkerboard?

Carrying yarns up the side is a great option for simple two-color checks! Instead of cutting and reattaching each color at every color change, you twist the two yarns together at the edge every time you switch. This keeps the yarns connected and eliminates most weaving-in work. For checkerboards with larger blocks where the carry would be very long, cutting and reattaching may be cleaner. And as always with colorwork: make sure both yarns are colorfast (check by wetting and pressing to white fabric) before starting your project.

Do checks and blocks patterns work for all project types?

Most of them! Blankets and throws look absolutely stunning in checks and blocks patterns… the geometric regularity is pleasing at large scale. Bags, pillows, and home goods all work beautifully. Garments can use checks and blocks as allover texture or as accent sections. Accessories like scarves and cowls show off the pattern nicely. The one consideration is for very fitted garments where the chunky geometric pattern might affect the apparent fit at the waist or chest. For most project types though, checks and blocks create beautiful, interesting fabric.

Merry Holidays: Plaid Crochet Christmas Afghan Free Pattern

By 2 Comments

The Plaid Crochet Christmas Afghan free pattern is so much fun to make. And after I tell you a little bit more about it, I’ve got a video tutorial that will help you craft it. Ready to get started? You can download the free pattern now and then scroll down to see the video.

*This post contains affiliate links. By clicking one of these links a small portion of your purchase will go to the blog, the price you pay will not change. Thank you for your support.*

xmas afghan free crochet pattern

Download the FREE Plaid Christmas Afghan crochet pattern now and get started.

This Christmas Crochet Afghan Is Easier Than You Think!

This crochet Christmas blanket pattern looks challenging if you’ve never worked in plaid crochet before. However, it’s far easier than you might think. You’ll use really basic crochet stitches to make this blanket. If you can chain and double crochet then you can make this blanket!

The Plaid Christmas Crochet Afghan is made in two parts. You’ll start by crocheting mesh. It’s really easy to do and it forms the entire base of the afghan.

After making the filet crochet fabric, you will crochet chains to weave into the mesh. That’s how it becomes plaid crochet. Watch the video to see how I complete this technique. It’s far easier than you might have guessed.

Important Notes About the Plaid Christmas Afghan Free Crochet Pattern

This pattern does produce quite a few ends to weave in. That’s because you change colors frequently to create the plaid design. My tip is to weave them in as you go. I stop about every 10 inches into the blanket to weave in my ends so that I don’t save them all for the end. Watch the video to see my cautionary tale if you don’t follow my tip!

Also, remember that you don’t have to use these colors for this crochet blanket. It’s made with Red Heart Super Saver, which comes in lots of different color options. In fact, when you go to download the pattern, you’ll have the option to buy the yarn. And you’ll see that each yarn color easily gives you the option to “change yarn color.” So it’s easy to pick the palette that works for you.

Obviously, the red and green makes it a Christmas blanket. But if you don’t think that you’ll finish it by Christmas, or you just want to be able to use it all year long, then don’t hesitate to change up the colors. Try white, blue, and grey for a wintry crochet blanket. Select the colors of your favorite sports teams. Or simply go with colors that you like. 

xmas crochet afghan pattern

Plaid Christmas Afghan Crochet Pattern Materials:

Grab your materials and join me now to make the Plaid Christmas Afghan Crochet Pattern.

Red Heart Super Saver

Download the FREE Plaid Christmas Afghan Crochet Pattern and get started.

Plaid Crochet Christmas Afghan Free Crochet Tutorial

This video will show you how to use the Plaid Crochet Afghan Free Pattern. Marly teaches you everything you need to know to make this beautiful plaid blanket which looks harder than it is. It’s a great opportunity to learn some new techniques while making a gift for yourself, your family, a friend, or even for charity. You’ll take it out again and again each holiday season to enjoy anew.

You Might Also Like:

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this plaid afghan really beginner friendly?

Honestly… yes! Even though it looks super fancy, you really only need to know how to chain and double crochet to make this blanket. It’s made in two parts… first you crochet a mesh base and then you add chains to create the plaid design.

How do I make the plaid design work?

So here’s the thing… you start by crocheting a mesh, which forms the base of the afghan. Then, you crochet chains and weave them into that mesh. It sounds tricky, but there’s a video tutorial that shows you exactly how it’s done… it’s much easier than you might think!

This looks like it has a ton of color changes… how do I handle all those ends?

Oh goodness, yes… there are quite a few ends to weave in because of all the color changes for the plaid! My best tip is to weave them in as you go… I like to stop about every 10 inches to weave in my ends so I don’t have a giant pile at the end. Trust me… learn from my cautionary tale in the video!

Do I have to use these exact colors?

Absolutely not! The pattern uses Red Heart Super Saver yarn, which comes in a bazillion colors. While red and green make it festive for Christmas, feel free to change it up… maybe white, blue, and grey for a wintery vibe, or even your favorite team’s colors!

What yarn and hook do I need for this afghan?

So glad you asked! You’ll need Red Heart Super Saver yarn in a few different colors (Paddy Green, Cherry Red, Soft White, Black, and Spring Green) and a 6 mm (US J-10) crochet hook. You’ll also need a yarn needle for weaving in those ends!

10+ FREE Crochet Prayer Shawls Patterns

By Leave a Comment

Creating a prayer shawl is a beautiful way to share your love with someone else, even when you can’t be with them. Wether you are making the shawl for a troubling time or a time to celebrate, it gives comfort, expresses care, and provides a tangible hug to the recipient. Here are 10 FREE Crochet Prayer Shawl Patterns that you can make and share with those that need it.

collection of more than 10 crochet shawl patterns perfect for prayer shawls - marly bird
[Read more…]

33 Crochet Designers You Definitely Want to Know

By Leave a Comment

Holiday Crochet Pattern Bundle from 34 designers

If you haven’t grabbed your Holiday Crochet Bundle, yet, then don’t hesitate. The big huge sale on these crochet patterns only lasts until tomorrow. If you don’t get them ASAP then you’ll miss the chance to get 40+ crochet patterns at a 90% discount. It’s the best way to get a lot of patterns from a variety of crochet designers at one super low price. And if you use my affiliate link to buy the bundle then you’ll also get two additional free Marly Bird crochet patterns. PLUS you’ll be entered to win another 10 free crochet patterns from me. Need more details? Learn all about it here.

Meet 33 Terrific Crochet Designers

Once you’ve gone and purchased your bundle, come on back here. I wanted to introduce you to the other 33 crochet designers who collaborated to bring you this big discount. While you can buy the bundle through any of us, I hope that you’ll use my affiliate link, since that’s the only way to get the extra free crochet patterns that I’m offering. (Plus it’s a way to support my work if you like it.)

I love collaborating with others. I do a lot of different types of collaborations, and I’m all about building community. That’s one of the reasons that I’m happy to participate in projects like this with other crochet designers. And it seems like a good opportunity to introduce you to the others, many of whom I’ve worked with or mentioned on the blog in the past. So, with no further ado, here are the other 33 crochet designers who also have patterns in the Holiday Crochet Bundle.

Bundle of patterns from different crochet designers

1. A Crocheted Simplicity

Jennifer of A Crocheted Simplicity always has cute crochet designs. In fact, I’ve included some of her crochet patterns in my roundups over the years. Here are three of them:

2. Blackstone Designs

Sonya Blackstone enjoys creating simple and fun crochet patterns. She offers many of them free through her blog. In particular, she excels at creating holiday and seasonal crochet patterns. Here are some of the roundups where I’ve included those patterns:

And we both participated in the Celebrate Mom Blog Hop, for which I shared a shawl pattern.

3. Blue Star Crochet Company

Veronica of Blue Star Crochet enjoys designing wearable crochet, so if you’re looking to make garments and accessories then you might want to check her out. You can also find crochet reviews, crochetalongs, and more on her blog.

4. Briana K Designs

Briana is a knit and crochet designer who started off selling finished items on Etsy but then switched to selling patterns. I love working with her. Get to know more about her from her Yarn Thing Podcast interview, in which we talk about Infinity Crochet. She also did a free crochet ornament pattern for last year’s Knit and Crochet Quickies hosted here on my site. Plus she contributed a knit and crochet shawl pattern for the Mother’s Day crochet pattern collaboration earlier this year.

5. Cre8tion Crochet

Lorene from Cre8tion Crochet was featured on the Yarn Thing podcast way back in 2014. She was already designing fun crochet projects back then, including a popular Owl Stuffy. Then she came back to the podcast in 2019 to share her Year in Crochet program. Check out the interviews to learn more about her work. Fun fact: She collaborated with Briana K and others on Crochet Foundry magazine this year.

6. Creations by Courtney

Courtney creates crochet patterns for accessories and garments with an eye towards being size-inclusive. All of her crochet garment patterns are sized S – 5x. I’ve included her patterns in the Fall and Thanksgiving projects roundup as well as the Portable Crochet Projects roundup, both linked above.

7. Crochet 365 Knit Too

Cheryl is a crochet blogger and designer who also knows how to knit. I’m always happy to find other bi-crafty people in this community. I hosted a New Year’s Eve pattern giveaway to countdown to 2018, and she participated in that. It’s great to be sharing another project with her.

8. CrochetKim

Kim Guzman was one of the earliest guests on the Yarn Thing Podcast. She’s an established crochet author and designer. In particular, she’s known for her skill with Tunisian crochet. You can find a Tunisian crochet stitch library on her website.

Holiday Pattern Bundle Roundup

9. Crystalized Designs

Crystal started crocheting while she was on bed rest. She quickly realized that she wanted to turn it into a career, and her crochet design business was born. I’ve included one of her patterns on the blog before: 10 Free Crochet Slipper Patterns.

10. Fosbas Designs

Susanna of Fosbas enjoys creating crochet patterns for moms and their kids. I’ve included some of those patterns on the blog in the past. You’ll find them in the Fall and Thanksgiving crochet patterns roundup, the Portable Crochet Projects roundup, and the Summer Tops crochet pattern roundup all linked above. You’ll also find them in: 20 Free Crochet Spa Patterns.

11. GoodKnit Kisses

Kristen offers video tutorials for a variety of different crafts including crochet. In 2018 we reviewed the Leisure Arts Oval Loom for knitters, and she was generous enough to share her expertise with us for that post. She also participated in the Chic Sheep blog tour, contributed a square for the Wedding Blanket CAL, and I included her in the 13 Free Knit and Crochet Baby Projects roundup.

12. Green Fox Farms Designs

Lisa of Green Fox Farms Designs has an art degree and taught herself to crochet when she was pregnant with her daughter. Her creativity shines through in her work. She celebrates the magic of the craft in all she does.

13. Handmade by Raine

Raine enjoys a variety of crafts including cross-stitch, sewing, knitting, and crochet, many of which her other and grandmother also enjoyed. She likes creating practical, useful items, but infusing them with a touch of something special.

14. HanJan Crochet

Hannah of HanJan Crochet creates a diverse array of different types of crochet patterns. Head to her website and you’ll find crochet patterns for babies, weddings, home, and wearables. I’ve included her patterns previously in the Crochet Cables roundup and Crochet Patterns for Fall and Thanksgiving, both linked above as well as in my Crochet for Charity roundup.

15. Hooked on Homemade Happiness

What a great name for a business right? Breann shares elegant crochet patterns, especially for accessories and wearables. She participates in CALs, and she also sells artisan yarn on her website. I recently included one of her patterns in my roundup of 15 Free Crochet Stockings Patterns.

16. KnitzNPurlz

Irina of KnitzNPurlz began knitting as a young child. She continues to love it today, and has also become a crocheter. Recently she’s been sharing a lot of crochet projects that use chunky t-shirt yarn.

17. Knottie Hooks

Faydra learned to crochet from her mother at a young age. Now, through Knottie Hooks, she shares stitch tutorials, free crochet patterns, and additional information to help others learn the craft that she loves.

18. Krissys Over The Mountain Crochet

Krissy is a mother of five living in the Appalachian Mountains. In addition to free crochet patterns and tutorials, she also shares recipes on her blog.

19. Loops and Love Crochet

Amanda of Loops and Love Crochet started crocheting when she was pregnant. She is relatively new to the crochet design scene, having been a designer for just a couple of years. She’s got some great patterns, which I’ve included previously in the roundups of crochet patterns for Fall and Thanksgiving, Charity Crochet, and Portable Crochet Projects, all of which are linked above.

20. Made by Gootie

Agat, whose nickname is Gootie, learned to knit as a child. She loves the craft and also loves to crochet. She shares patterns for both. I’ve included one of her patterns previously in the Spa Patterns roundup linked earlier in this post.

Roundup of Crochet Designers participating in Holiday Bundle Sale

21. Mama in a Stitch

Jessica of Mama in a Stitch is another bi-crafty member of our designer community. She launched her blog in 2014 with a knit fingerless gloves pattern, and she’s been sharing her knit and crochet patterns ever since. I’ve included her previously in my roundup of 12 Free Crochet Summer Tops.

22. Meladora’s Creations

Candy of Meladora’s Creations loves to crochet. After struggling through some life challenges and working at a job she hated to make ends meet, she was able to turn her love of the craft into a business. She teaches crochet through video tutorials and shares patterns on her website.

23. MJ’s Off the Hook Designs

Michelle is one of the crochet designers behind the Crochet Foundry magazine (mentioned above since she worked in collaboration with several people including both Briana K and Cre8tion Crochet.) You’ll also find that I’ve included her patterns in the roundups of Spa Patterns, 30 Free Crochet Summer Tops for Beginners, and Mother’s Day blog hop patterns, also all linked above. And she was another participant in the Fall Crochet Bundle, the predecessor to this Holiday Crochet Bundle event.

24. Nicki’s Homemade Crafts

Nicole is the one behind this big Holiday Crochet Bundle sale and the previous Fall Crochet Bundle. I’ve included her patterns previously on the blog in the roundups of Easter crochet patterns, crochet cables, and 24 knit and crochet Christmas quickies, all of which are linked above. She was also included in 20 Free Pom Pom Project Ideas, my Yarn Pooling book blog tour, and I did a free crochet shawl pattern for her Celebrate the Holidays blog hop.

25. Raffamusa Designs

Raffaella, whose high school nickname was Raffamusa, began her crochet journey with Tunisian crochet. She also likes crocheting appliqués, potholders, accessories, and baby items. She has Tunisian crochet stitch designs and patterns on her website along with other crochet patterns.

26. Repeat Crafter Me

Sarah Zimmerman is a terrific crochet designer well-known for her C2C crochet patterns. In fact, she’s authored a book of them. I’ve included her patterns in many roundups over time including:

27. Same DiNamics Crochet

If you’re enjoying learning about all of these great crochet designers, then you might want to check out the Inside the Crochet Designer’s Mind series on this blog. You’ll get the opportunity to meet all kinds of different crochet designers there. Plus the site has crochet patterns, pattern reviews, articles and more. This was another stop on my Yarn Pooling book blog tour.

28. Strings and Cuddles

Elisa is a crochet designer and knitter who also enjoys the craft of card making. She started the crafts as a way to pass the time when feeling homesick after first moving to the United States. Now she is a pattern tester who also shares crochet patterns of her own.

29. Sweet Potato 3

You might be familiar with Sweet Potato 3 from my recent participation in her Crochet Cancer Challenge, for which I shared the Wings of Hope hat pattern. It’s a great cause that Christine cares a lot about. She was also part of the Countdown to 2018 project mentioned above and has a pattern included in my roundup of 10 Free Crochet Gift Card Holder Patterns.

30. The Friendly Red Fox

Kali is a crochet blogger who specializes in amigurumi. As she says on her Facebook page, she enjoys “creating warmth, comfort and personality with crochet!” Recent patterns include a bat, a tiger, a sloth, and a unicorn.

31. The Hook Nook

Jessica Carey of the Hook Nook had a rough childhood and wanted things to be different for her own kids. One way she did that was learning to crochet so that she could pass special heirloom pieces on to her kids. She believes in crochet as therapy and has a new book called Making with Meaning that shares patterns and essays on this topic. Learn more about her from her feature on the Yarn Thing Podcast.

32. The Loopy Lamb

Ashley is a Canadian crochet designer who started her blog in 2018. She learned to crochet to reduce anxiety and quickly found that she loved the craft. I’ve shared her patterns in the roundups (all linked above) for: Easter Crochet Patterns, Fall and Thanksgiving Projects, Portable Crochet Projects, and Charity Crochet.

33. YARNutopia

Nadia is another crocheter, and a friend of mine, who uses the craft as therapy. She started selling her crochet work in 2012, donating a portion of the proceeds to help people like her who live with inflammatory bowel diseases. She’s been included on this blog many times including in the roundups of shark crochet patterns, Halloween crochet patterns, and crochet slipper patterns all linked above. But perhaps most special is the Oliver and Olivia crochet blanket I designed for her when she was pregnant.

There they are. The 33 crochet designers who are also participating in the Holiday Crochet Bundle. I hope you’ve met some new folks and see some others whose work you already enjoy. Don’t forget that when you buy the Holiday Crochet Bundle through my affiliate link, you’ll get some extra bonus patterns just from me!

Frequently Asked Questions

Why should I follow independent crochet designers?

Independent designers bring so much creativity, diversity, and personality to the craft that you just don’t get from big yarn company patterns. They design patterns they genuinely love and that reflect their own aesthetic… often pioneering new techniques or fresh takes on classic styles. Following designers (on Ravelry, Instagram, their blogs) means you hear about new patterns first, often get discounts and freebies, and become part of a real community around their work. It’s how the yarn world stays vibrant and connected.

How do I find crochet designers I’ll love?

Look at finished objects you admire and trace them back to the designer. When you finish a pattern you love… bookmark that designer! Instagram and Ravelry are both great for discovery. Search hashtags for the type of project you love (#crochetshawl, #amigurumi, #crochetgarment) and see whose work keeps catching your eye. This collection of 33 designers is a great starting point for finding talented crocheters from different style backgrounds and specialties.

What’s the difference between buying a pattern directly from a designer vs. through Ravelry or Etsy?

The designer usually gets a higher percentage of the sale when you buy directly (through their website or Payhip). Ravelry takes a small commission but handles a lot of the discovery and delivery for the designer. Etsy is another popular platform. From your perspective as a buyer, the pattern is identical regardless of where you buy it. If you love a designer’s work and want to support them directly… check their website first. If you’re just browsing and discovering… Ravelry is fantastic for that.

Are crochet patterns from independent designers better than yarn company patterns?

Different, not necessarily better! Yarn company patterns (from Yarnspirations, Lion Brand, Paintbox, etc.) are designed to sell yarn and are usually free. Independent designer patterns are designed for the love of the craft and reflect a specific creative vision. Both can be excellent! Independent designers often push the envelope more on style and technique, while yarn company patterns are extremely accessible and beginner-friendly. Having both in your pattern library gives you the best of both worlds.

How do I support independent crochet designers?

Buy their patterns instead of looking for free alternatives when you can. Leave a helpful review or project photo on Ravelry… it’s incredibly valuable to other crafters and to the designer. Tag them when you share your finished makes on social media. Tell your crafty friends about designers you love. Subscribe to their newsletter. And if a designer offers a free pattern, please use the actual pattern source (their blog or Ravelry page) rather than redistributing it elsewhere. Small actions add up to big support.