We pull together some of our favorite patterns from the Yarnspirations website each week. Use these patterns to inspire you to try new projects or yarn! This week I have a collection of 38 FREE knit and crochet basketweave patterns. Browse them for your next project to put on your hooks or needles.
The Bonny Billow Crochet Cable Pillow pattern uses cables in a unique way to create a wonderfully textured design. You should have a lot of fun working with this pattern, and I'm happy to share it with you today. Although it's designed for spring, it's a great project to work any time of the year. GET THE PATTERN TODAY.
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This post was originally my contribution to the Spring Home Decor Blog Hop hosted by E Claire Makery. During this blog hop, you could purchase all patterns in one bundle for less than $1 per pattern or visit the individual blog posts. I loved contributing to a project with so many different designers and designs. And I think my Bonny Billow Crochet Cable Pillow fits in nicely with the other designs. It also stands alone perfectly.
I'm enjoying working with crochet cables right now. This should be no surprise if you noticed I'm part of the upcoming Classic Cable Collection CAL. The Bonny Billow Crochet Cable Pillow I'm sharing perfectly complements the crochet blanket pattern I'm offering as part of that CAL. Whenever I start playing with a new technique, I want to make ALL THE THINGS. And that's what's happened with these cables.
Of course, there are different ways to work crochet cables. Often, you use both front and back post stitches. However, this leaves gaps or holes in the work. There's nothing wrong with that, per se. However, you need a new technique if you want a denser fabric without those holes.
In the Bonny Billow Crochet Cable Pillow pattern (as well as the blanket I'm sharing as part of the aforementioned CAL; sneak peek here), I've solved this problem. You'll work only front post stitches for the cables and use regular crochet stitches for the wrong side rows. As a result, you get great cable detail with no spaces. It is called the hidden crochet cable technique.
This crochet pattern uses Billow Yarn, a bulky-weight cotton yarn perfect for spring home decor crochet patterns.
You'll also use a 6.5mm/K crochet hook (or hook needed to obtain gauge) … (recommended: WeCrochet Hook or ergonomic TooShay Crochet Hook)
And you might want to use:
Ready to get the crochet cable pillow pattern? It's over on Ravelry. GET IT NOW.
Or remember that you can buy the whole bundle of 30 crochet patterns here.
So here's the thing… the Bonny Billow Crochet Cable Pillow uses cables in a super unique way to make this wonderfully textured design. It's perfect for spring, but honestly, you can totally make it any time of the year!
Honestly… usually, you need front and back post stitches for cables, right? But that can leave little holes… this pattern uses a new trick! You'll only work front post stitches for the cables, and then regular stitches on the wrong side rows, giving you amazing cable detail with no gaps.
Yes! The pattern specifically calls for Billow Yarn, which is a bulky-weight cotton. It's just perfect for spring home decor projects like this pillow!
You can grab the pattern right over on Ravelry… just click the link! Or, if you're feeling ambitious, you can actually get this pattern as part of a bundle of 30 patterns for less than $1 each!
Well… it's listed as an advanced beginner pattern. So if you've got a little crochet experience, especially with post stitches, you should totally be able to tackle this one. It’s a fun way to play with cables!
There are so many easy, interesting crochet stitches to learn. Just by changing your hook placement or combining basic stitches in fresh ways, you can create such a vast array of different textures and looks. Here are some of my most popular video tutorials for interesting crochet stitches.
Crochet linen stitch is an easy, meditative crochet stitch. In this stitch, you alternate single crochet stitches with ch-1 spaces across the row. On the next row, you do the same, but work a single crochet into the chain spaces. It creates a dense, striking texture. Note that you might also see this called crochet moss stitch.
Crochet lemon peel stitch has a lot of different names, including waffle stitch, scrunch stitch, seed stitch, and single double combination stitch.
It's similar to the linen or moss stitch. However, instead of alternating chain spaces and single crochet, you alternate single crochet and double crochet. Therefore, you get a similar texture that works up more quickly. This is a very versatile and somewhat textured crochet stitch.
Crochet offers so many different opportunities to change the placement of stitches. In this linen stitch variation, we use long double crochet stitches. They're worked strategically into the row below where you'd usually work to create a visually interesting, reversible pattern.
The long double crochet chevron stitch takes the same concept from above but applies a chevron technique for a totally different look. You can create chevron crochet stitches in many different ways. This is a unique one for you to try.
Spike crochet stitches use the same concept as above: you work the stitch into the row below the one you usually work into. In this case, you're using a long single crochet instead of a double crochet stitch. You get a comfy, cozy, dense fabric. Moreover, this stitch pattern lets you do really interesting things with colorwork.
Another way to change up single crochet and some other basic stitches is to work into one loop only. Working in the back loop only row after row gives a terrific ribbing effect. In this video, you learn to single crochet in the back loop only to create a stretchy fabric.
However, you don't have to work in the back loops to create ribbing. In this technique, you alternate rows of single crochet with slip stitch rows for a knit-look ribbing.
Many would argue that star stitch is one of the most interesting easy crochet stitches. You may also see it listed as spiked cluster stitch, Marguerite stitch, or daisy stitch.
Getting the crochet feather stitch right is about placing your hook in the correct spot each time. Get that down and you'll master this design that's perfect for color play and striping.
Can't get enough of these crochet stitch video tutorials?
Check out my Crochet Stitch Library playlist on YouTube.
The sweet spot where minimal technique creates maximum visual impact! An easy but interesting stitch produces beautiful texture, lace effects, or colorwork results using techniques you can learn in a few minutes. No complex multi-step maneuvers, no tracking multiple yarn strands simultaneously, no confusing chart interpretation… just a learnable stitch that looks impressive when repeated across a project. These are the stitches that make people ask “how did you do that?” when the answer is actually “one simple step, repeated.”
Because crochet is a physical, tactile skill that's much easier to learn by watching than reading! Written instructions like “yarn over, insert hook from front to back around the post of the indicated stitch, yarn over and pull up a loop…” are accurate but abstract. Watching Marly actually do the stitch in real time, at normal speed and then slower, with a close-up of her hands… that's how the movement clicks for most people. Written instructions are great reference material once you've learned the motion, but video is usually the fastest path to actually being able to do a new stitch.
Most people can learn a new basic-to-intermediate stitch in one 15-30 minute session with a video… watch the video, practice on a swatch, watch again if needed. Complex stitches (like broomstick lace or crocodile stitch) might take 45-60 minutes plus practice before they feel natural. The breakthrough often comes when you understand the WHY behind the stitch… once you grasp why you're inserting the hook where you are, the mechanical execution becomes much more intuitive. Marly's teaching style specifically explains the why, which accelerates learning.
A swatch is great for pure practice. But a small, functional project is better for learning… it gives you enough repetition for the stitch to become automatic, plus you end up with something useful! A dishcloth in the new stitch is a classic learning project. A small bag. A hat for a child (small scale, lower stakes). The key is enough repetition across enough rows to fully internalize the stitch before applying it to a bigger commitment. Don't skip the practice phase and jump straight into a sweater in a stitch you just learned today.
They're described as “easy” so yes… but “easy” is relative to your existing skill. If you're a complete beginner who hasn't done a single crochet before, learn the fundamental stitches first (chain, slip stitch, single crochet, double crochet). Once those feel comfortable, you're ready for “easy interesting” stitches. The video tutorials make each stitch much more accessible than attempting it from written instructions alone. Approach each one as a small adventure… watch the full video, practice, and enjoy the satisfaction of adding a new technique to your repertoire.
So you're ready to dive into these beautiful stitch variations? Here's what I always tell my crafty besties: start with the crochet linen stitch if you're new to textured stitches. It's meditative, forgiving, and builds your foundation perfectly.
Want to put these stitches to work? Try combining a feather stitch base with back loop only ribbing for blanket edges, or use spike stitches for cozy cowls and scarves. The possibilities are endless when you understand the “why” behind each technique!
UPDATE: The crochet swancho CAL is complete, and the full pattern is now available.
We are all about being cozy. And we know that you are, too. When we posted recently about the super cozy crochet hoodie blanket free pattern, so many of you immediately jumped on making it. That excited us to announce our first-ever Marly Bird CAL with Yarnspirations for a cozy and stylish item. It's a crochet swancho! Stylish like a sweater and cozy like a poncho, this design offers a versatile neckline option to create exactly the garment you're looking for. The CAL is now complete, which means the free crochet swancho pattern is now ready for you.
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There's a lot of information in this post. To let it soak in, please take a minute to read through the entire post at least once. Then, you can skip to any section you need to see (note the links will be at the bottom).
Let’s start at the very beginning. If you aren’t familiar with the term ‘crochet-along’ let me explain. A crochet-along, or CAL, is a group of people coming together to crochet the same project in the same timeframe. The best part about the CALs I run is that I have a special Facebook group full of helpful crocheters working on the same project, and there to offer support. But, if you cannot start when I post the first section, or if you are new to crochet and don’t feel as fast, don’t worry. The content and pattern will always be available and FREE, thanks to Red Heart Yarns.
As the name explains, the swancho is a cross between a sweater and a poncho. A poncho is a loose, cozy garment, usually square or rectangular, that you pop right over your head for warmth. A sweater, of course, has sleeves and a more detailed neckline. But combine these features, and you get a beautiful garment that is also super cozy to wear. The crochet swancho is worked top-down, which is an easy design approach.
As you can see, this is not a mystery crochet-along. You know what you're making, and you can make choices along the way – your preferred yarn color and the neckline you want.
As for the neckline, you can choose from the extra cozy cowl neck version (that I love and made on my sample) or a crewneck version, a classic sweater style many people love.
It's designed as an experienced crocheter's pattern. However, because it's a CAL, you'll get many details along the way. Moreover, you'll have the support of the people crocheting along with you in the community. So, don't be afraid to give it a try. In addition to basic crochet stitches, you'll have the opportunity to work with foundation stitches, stacked stitches, post stitches, and clusters. It's going to be fun!
The pattern is written and includes full schematic and stitch diagrams. Of course, video tutorials will be available for each section I taught and hosted on the Marly Bird YouTube Channel.
Here are the details. Get the full pattern here.
Note about size: When picking out your size, make sure you check the finished bust. The sweater is designed to be oversized. Keep in mind if you are between 2 sizes, you can certainly make it one size smaller to have a tighter fit.
Red Heart Roll With It Melange, (100% Acrylic; 5.29 oz/150 g; 389 yds/356 m; medium size (CYCA 4), colorway used in sample: Theatre (3, 4, 4, 5) balls
As for the color, you can choose from nine different colorways when you use the recommended Roll With It Melange yarn. This is a 100% worsted weight acrylic yarn that you can machine wash and dry, making your crochet swancho easy to care for. The colorways are what make this yarn truly unique. The colors swirl and work up so beautifully as you craft. Working on the CAL, you'll delight in seeing those colors unfold. The result is an elegant, stylish design. Make something relatively simple, and let the yarn do the colorwork for you!
K/10.5 (6.5mm)
Stitch markers, tapestry needle
Note: See stitch diagram for assistance with the gauge swatch.
Foundation Row (WS): 19 Foundation sc (see special stitches), turn.
Row 1 (RS): Stacked dc in first sc, *ch 2, skip 2 sc, 3 dc-cl in next sc, ch 2, skip 2 sc, dc in next sc; repeat from * to end, turn. (6 ch-2 sps)
Row 2: Ch 1, sc in first dc, ch 1, *sc in next ch-2 sp, ch 3; repeat from * across to last ch-2 sp, sc in last ch-2 sp, ch 1, sc in last st, turn.
Row 3: (Stacked dc, dc) in first sc, 3 dc in each ch-3 sp across (makes a dc group), 2 dc in last sc, turn.
Row 4: Ch 1, sc in first dc, ch 1, skip 1 dc, *sc between sts before next dc group, ch 3, skip 3 dc; repeat from * across to last 2 dc, sc between sts after last dc group, ch 1, sc in last st, turn.
Row 5: Stacked dc in first sc, *ch 2, 3 dc-cl in next ch-3 sp, ch 2, dc in next ch-3 sp; repeat from * across to last ch-3 sp, ch 2, 3 dc-cl in last ch-3 sp, ch 2, dc in last sc, turn.
Repeat Rows 2-5 to desired length for swatch.
Sharing is caring in everything that we do in this industry. The more you share this event (and others) online, the more people will visit my site, and the more you will help support me. That is how we designers get noticed because it helps us make revenue for these free events through the ads on our blogs.
Adding your project to Ravelry, showing WIP images in all your crochet-related Facebook groups, and posting about your progress on Instagram are all ways you can help us promote this fun event.
➸ Here is a quick link to the project page on Ravelry for your convenience.
If you are part of Ravelry, please take a minute and add your project there as well.
Before starting the CAL, please head to Facebook and join our dedicated crochet-along Facebook group. In this group, you will be joined by many other people participating in the CAL.
We shared progress photos, talked about tips and tricks, and helped each other through the tricky parts of the pattern in the group. I answered your questions with my team of admins and other crochet lovers.
Each week, we had a new post for questions. You'll see all the answers there. If you have photos to share, just post them on the page as you take them.
The Facebook group is also where you could enter to win prizes.
The Crochet Swancho pattern is now available here.
➡️ Don't forget to join the Marly's Minions Facebook group so you can share your progress. Half the fun of crochet-alongs is the community aspect of sharing the work as we go! ⬅️
Honestly… a swancho is a super cozy blend of a sweater and a poncho! It's got that comfy, easy-to-wear feel of a poncho but with a bit more structure like a sweater. It's worked top-down, which makes it a pretty straightforward design to tackle.
Yes! While it's designed for experienced crocheters, don't let that scare you off. Since it was a CAL, there are tons of details and video tutorials to help you out. Plus, you have the support of other makers in the Facebook group who are working on it too!
So here's the thing… the pattern specifically recommends Red Heart Roll With It Melange yarn. It's a worsted weight acrylic that comes in some really neat colorways that swirl and work up beautifully. Plus, it's machine washable and dryable, which is always a win!
You bet! You can totally customize your swancho with either a super cozy cowl neck, which is what I made on my sample, or a classic crewneck style. It's nice to have choices, right?
Oh goodness, I'm sorry to hear that! … The best place to get help is definitely in the Marly Bird Crochet-Along Facebook group. Lots of helpful people are there, and we had weekly question threads where I and my team answered all sorts of things.
We pull together some of our favorite knit and crochet patterns from the Yarnspirations website each week. Use these patterns to inspire you to try new projects or yarn! This week we have a collection of 42 FREE knit and crochet bobble patterns. Browse them for your next bobble project to put your crochet hooks or knitting needles to work.
[Read more…]Squares and rectangles don't have to be the norm in knit and crochet projects. You can actually create some really out-of-the-box shapes! This week, we decided to offer you something a little more unusual! As you know, each week, we gather some of our favorite patterns from the Yarnspirations website. This week, I have a collection of 22 FREE unusual knit and crochet patterns. Browse them for your next project to get your crochet hooks or knitting needles into action.
Knit and crochet projects are rarely rectangles, squares, or blocks anymore. Of course, circles are pretty common too. But you'd be amazed at the shapes you can actually make with knitting needles and crochet hooks. That's why we think you'd love to try one or more of these 22 FREE unusual knit and crochet patterns for your next make.
Let us know what you think!
Yes, it's easy to work unusual shapes into squares or rectangles for blankets and throws. But we wanted to show you other fun projects where unusual shapes in knit and crochet create even more unusual shapes. Check out these patterns for more out-of-the-box ideas.
Oh no, not at all! While there are some super cozy blankets and pillows in the mix, there are also patterns for things like rugs, poufs, shawls, and even organizers. So many fun shapes to try!
Honestly… some are marked as advanced beginner, and others might be a bit more challenging. But the great thing about crochet and knitting is that there's always something to learn! You might surprise yourself with what you can create.
So here's the thing… we're moving beyond basic squares and rectangles! You'll find patterns for hexagons, octagons, pentagons, and even star shapes. It's all about getting creative with your stitches!
Yes! These patterns are all gathered from the Yarnspirations website. They have a fantastic collection of free patterns, and I just love sharing my favorites with you all.
You bet! It's amazing what you can do when you think outside the box. These patterns show just how versatile knitting needles and crochet hooks can be for creating all sorts of fun and unique shapes.
