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BiCrafty Bootcamp: Beginner Crochet Lessons for Knitters!!

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Step-By-Step Instructions for Learning to Crochet

with Bonus Tips for Knitters Who Want to Become BiCrafty

SIGN UP TODAY. IT’S FREE

IMPORTANT UPDATE FEBRUARY 2022:

BiCrafty Bootcamp weekly lessons resume 2/3/22. Get your materials list RIGHT HERE.

Colorful knitted banner featuring a camouflage pattern in pink, blue, and gray with a decorative floral design.

For the past several months the Marly Bird team has come together every week for BiCrafty Bootcamp: Knitting Lessons for Crocheters. Those crocheters are now bicrafty. In fact, they have intermediate knitting skills that they never expected to gain so quickly.

And now we want to give knitters the same chance to become bicrafty.

So, starting on September 1, 2021, we're launching BiCrafty Bootcamp: Beginner Crochet Lessons for Knitters!!

Text-based graphic featuring "BiCrafty Bootcamp" in pink font, promoting beginner crochet lessons with Marly Bird.

Disclosure: This post includes affiliate links. I receive a portion of sales made from clicks on those links. This does not affect your price. Thank you for your support.

What Is BiCrafty Bootcamp: Beginner Crochet Lessons for Knitters?

This is a step-by-step from-the-ground up set of lessons in learning how to crochet. It's designed specifically for knitters. We'll provide tips and tricks for how to use what you already know in knitting to make it easier to learn how to crochet.

How Does BiCrafty Bootcamp: Beginner Crochet Lessons for Knitters Work?

First, sign up here ✅ This lets us know that you're interested in joining us. Each week we'll send out a newsletter about the week's lessons. Therefore, it also helps keep you on track with your beginner crochet lessons.

???? Starting 9/1/21, we'll begin posting weekly crochet lessons here on the blog. In each post, you'll find:

  • New crochet skills, starting from the beginning and graduating towards more advanced skills.
  • Tips for using your knitting knowledge to make it easier to learn how to crochet.
  • Helpful insights from the team about learning how to crochet. All of Marly Bird's team members are now bicrafty.
  • A pattern, or a portion of a pattern, so that you can put the skills that you're learning to use. We believe that the instant gratification of making something as you learn helps solidify the skills. Plus, it keeps you excited all through your beginner crochet lessons, as you see how far you're coming each week.

Each week we'll also have a live YouTube video where Marly shows you all about that week's crochet lesson. She'll usually be joined by one or two team members: Cryssi and Kathryn. They'll answer your questions, chat with you about crochet, and encourage your growth in this craft.

Who Should Join BiCrafty Bootcamp: Beginner Crochet Lessons for Knitters?

Simple, THIS IS FOR EVERYONE!

Obviously, people who already know how to knit but don't yet know how to crochet are the primary audience for this set of free online crochet classes. However, if you don't know how to knit, then you can still learn crochet from these lessons.

Moreover, if you do know how to crochet, then you can still join us! You can help encourage the newbie crocheters in the live video chats and in the Marly's Minions Facebook Group. It's a great opportunity to crochet in community. Plus, you'll complete a lot of crochet projects that are great for you or for gifting. We hope to see lots of people join up!

Colorful, camo-patterned background with pink and gray hues, featuring text about a beginner crochet boot camp.

What Are Some Of The Items We Will Make in BiCrafty Bootcamp: Beginner Crochet Lessons for Knitters?

That is a great question and Marly has a HUGE line up of items for this fun free online crochet course. Knowing that crochet is a LOT faster than knitting, she has some larger items planned for all of us wanna be bicrafty people.

Here are just a few: crochet spa items, crochet winter accessories, crochet amigurumi, crochet blanket, crochet pillow, crochet market bag, and a final project surprise…I am not going to tell you!

Don't' those sound like fun?

Materials: What Do We Need To Get Started?

You don't have to invest a lot of money to get started in crochet. You'll need some yarn and a crochet hook. Plus, we're going to teach you how to use an I-Cord maker. BiCrafty Bootcamp Crochet Edition is approximately 20 weeks long.

Here's what you'll need for the first four weeks of the class:

*note: we will give you the list of items you will need at least 2 weeks before you need them during the BiCrafty Bootcamp.

  • YARN:
    • WeCrochet Dishie Yarn: 2 balls color A, 1 ball each of colors B and C. It is best if you coordinate these colors. This is a great worsted weight cotton yarn that will work really well for our first set of projects. *psst: you know Marly and she will offer tips to use more colors than 3, so if you want to splurge and get 5, go ahead…but not 4…never 4! LOL.
Colorful yarn skeins arranged in a grid, featuring pastel and vibrant shades, ideal for knitting and crochet projects.
  • HOOKS:
    • One set of crochet hooks. We're going to work with worsted weight yarn. As you know from knitting, tension affects gauge. Therefore, you may need a hook size smaller or larger than what we recommend for a pattern. Getting a set makes that easier. We recommend at least US size G, H, I, and J crochet hooks. Learn more about crochet hook sizes here. You can get affordable crochet hook sets from WeCrochet here.
      • For anyone seeking ergonomic crochet hooks, we highly recommend Marly's favorite hooks which are sold on Etsy by Too Shay Crochet.
Set of crochet hooks in various sizes, featuring a sleek design with a dark finish against a pink camo background.
  • NOTIONS:
    • Locking stitch markers. KnitPicks has a great affordable set that you'll use again and again.
    • Chenille needles as well as tapestry needles for weaving in ends. We aren't going to crochet over our ends in Crochet Bootcamp!
    • OPTIONAL: I-Cord Maker. As a knitter, you might already know how to knit the I-Cord. However, an I-Cord Maker simplifies things for you so much. We'll be working with this starting in week one of your beginner crochet lessons.

These supplies will take you through our first four weeks of BiCrafty Bootcamp Crochet Edition. Plus, of course, you'll keep using the hooks and other tools throughout the classes. Order these now so that you're ready to start with us on 9/1/21. And remember to sign up here!!!

Thank you message with "we crochet" in teal on a pink and gray camo background.

Big Thanks to WeCrochet!

WeCrochet is our sponsor for BiCrafty Bootcamp Crochet Edition. WeCrochet sells yarn, hooks, patterns, and more. They love all things crochet. Therefore, they're an obvious sponsor for this project which seeks to make more knitters also fall in love with crochet!

LESSON PLAN

➻ Lesson One: Introduction to crochet hooks, single crochet, turning chains. Spa headband pattern. VIDEO HERE.

➻ Lesson Two: Half double crochet, double crochet, treble crochet. Long Wave Crochet Stitch. Self-care beginner crochet facecloth pattern. VIDEO HERE

➻ Lesson Three: How to crochet into spaces, work multiple stitches into one stitch or space, and crochet shells and granny stitch. VIDEO HERE.

➻ Lesson Four: How to increase and decrease for chevron crochet. VIDEO HERE.

➻ Extra Credit Week: Go-To Baby Shower Blanket Crochet Pattern. Practice single-double combination stitch while working with double-stranded yarn.

➻ Lesson Five: Crochet edgings for beginners. Triangle-style shawl pattern. VIDEO HERE.

➻ Lesson Six: Granny square crochet motifs and ear warmer pattern. VIDEO HERE.

➻ Lesson Seven: Confetti Dots Granny Blanket pattern and Join As You Go Motifs. VIDEO HERE.

➻ Lesson Eight: BiCrafty Bootcamp is on pause for the holidays. Finish your blanket. Practice your skills. And order your yarn for PART TWO which begins 2/3/22.

➻ Lesson Nine: Crochet stitch anatomy. Learn to work in the front loop, back loop, third loop and around the posts in crochet. VIDEO HERE.

➻ Lesson Ten: Crochet Cables. Cables are NOT just for knitters! Learn to work front and back post stitches to create a gorgeous fabric. VIDEO HERE.

➻ Lesson Eleven: Crochet Top Down Hat. Learn how to crochet in the round to make a hat from the top down. VIDEO HERE.

➻ Lesson Twelve: Crochet Waistcoat Stitch, aka Split Single Crochet. VIDEO HERE.

➻ Lesson Twelve (cont'd): Colorful Crochet Market Bag. VIDEO HERE.

➻ Lesson Thirteen: Corner to Corner Crochet. VIDEO HERE.

➻

Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly is the BiCrafty Bootcamp for knitters?

So here's the thing… it's a super fun, step-by-step way for knitters like you to learn how to crochet from the very beginning! We give you all the tips and tricks to use what you already know from knitting to make learning crochet easier. Plus, we include patterns so you can practice as you go… it’s totally free to sign up!

How does the BiCrafty Bootcamp work?

Honestly… you sign up first, and then each week we'll send you an email about the new lessons. We'll also post them here on the blog with new crochet skills, tips specifically for knitters, and a pattern to try. We even have live YouTube videos where you can ask questions!

Do I need a lot of special supplies to start?

Yes! You just need some yarn and a crochet hook to get started. We recommend specific yarn and hook sizes for the first few weeks, and you can find affordable sets and options linked in the post. You might also want some stitch markers and tapestry needles, but don't worry… we'll let you know what you need ahead of time!

What kind of projects will we make in this crochet bootcamp?

Oh, you're going to love this! Since crochet is often faster than knitting, we've got some great projects lined up… think things like spa items, cozy winter accessories, maybe even a blanket or a market bag! And there's a surprise final project… I won't tell!

I already know how to crochet, can I still join?

Absolutely! While the bootcamp is designed for knitters learning to crochet, we'd love for experienced crocheters to join too! You can be a great encouragement to the new crocheters in our Facebook group and during the live YouTube chats. Plus, you'll get to make some fun projects!

7 Colorful Crochet Vest Patterns for Spring

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crochet vest patterns

Crochet vests are starting to look like they're going to be a spring/summer trend. They're great because you can wear them over blouses and dresses of varying sleeve length to adapt to almost any weather. Are you ready to embrace this trend? Here are seven cute, colorful crochet vest patterns that are perfect for spring.

1. Caron Color Block Party Crochet Vest

Caron Color Block Party Crochet Vest

This is one of the new crochet vest patterns over at Yarnspirations. In fact, it was seeing this super fun, colorful, springtime crochet vest that inspired the idea for this post. It has a great retro vibe but it's totally contemporary and is going to be on trend for spring for sure.

There are many different vest styles; this one is the kind that you can wear over a long-sleeved blouse, a short-sleeved dress, or even as a tank top all on its own.

2. Waterfall Waistcoast Cardigan Pattern

Waterfall Waistcoast Cardigan Pattern

This is the vest style that many people think of when choosing vests for their wardrobe. It's an open-front flowing design that you can wear over a variety of different tops and dresses. This is one of two crochet vest patterns that I designed about a decade ago. They still stand the test of time. This one was first shown in an issue of Inside Crochet and then later in Love of Crochet. You can get the pattern today by purchasing the Love of Crochet issue; you'll find the link on my Ravelry page for this pattern or right here. Note: image is from @artobella.

3. Poinsettia Vest Crochet Pattern

poinsettia vest crochet pattern

This is the second of the two crochet vest patterns I mentioned. It was featured in the 2012 Love of Crochet magazine, which you can still purchase online. Although it references poinsettias and definitely works for the holidays, this pattern also works well for spring. It's obviously a floral design, and you could create it in different colors.Use a variegated bright yarn to make it especially interesting! The openwork design is perfect for pairing with many things in your wardrobe.

4. Best In Hoodie Vest Free Crochet Pattern

Best in Hoodie Vest Free Crochet Pattern

A little bit hippie, a little bit steampunk, this is one of the most unique and versatile crochet vest patterns. And it has a hood! The tie-front is a favorite feature of this unique vest design.

5. Red Heart Rainbow Circle Vest Free Pattern

https://www.yarnspirations.com/red-heart-rainbow-circle-vest/RHC0132-016338M.html?&utm_source=influencer_MB&utm_medium=blog

This is one of those crochet vest patterns that you can make nice and long for flow, which is perfect for spring wardrobes. And look at those fun colors. The circles are so easy to crochet but they make for a really fun polka-dot-inspired design!

6. Red Heart Stunning Vest Free Crochet Pattern

Red Heart Stunning Vest Free Crochet Pattern

Take a simple crochet vest pattern but work it in a really bold color. Then use a big satin ribbon to tie it together in the front with a bow. Fabulous.

7. Red Heart Cozy No Seam Vest Free Crochet Pattern

Red Heart Cozy No Seam Crochet Vest Free Pattern

Did you know that you can basically crochet a square or rectangle with built-in armholes and you've created a vest? It's a super simple seamless approach to crochet vest patterns. Try it with this pattern!

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I wear these vests year-round?

Honestly, vests are fantastic for transitioning between seasons! You can totally wear them over blouses and dresses with different sleeve lengths, making them adaptable for almost any weather. So yes, they're perfect for spring but can definitely be styled for other times too.

I like vests that are easy to wear over anything… which ones are best?

So here's the thing… the Waterfall Waistcoat Cardigan and the Poinsettia Vest are both designed to be open-front and flowing. They're classics that you can wear over tons of different tops and dresses!

I'm looking for something a little unique, do you have any suggestions?

Oh, for sure! The Best In Hoodie Vest is super unique with its little hippie, steampunk vibe and it even has a hood! Plus, the tie-front is just the cutest detail.

Are any of these vest patterns really simple?

Yes! The Red Heart Cozy No Seam Vest is a great example of a super simple approach. You basically crochet a square or rectangle with armholes, and boom… vest!

Can I make these vests in colors other than the ones shown?

Absolutely! The patterns are just a starting point. For example, the Poinsettia Vest would look amazing in bright, variegated yarns for spring. You can totally play with colors to make them your own!

Caspian Crochet Hooks On Sale!

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The tools that you use for your craft matter. First of all, you want tools that work well, of course. Everyone has different needs when it comes to the right style, material, and design of their knitting needles and crochet hooks. Finding the ones that are the right quality for you is important. But that's not all that matters. Aesthetics matter, as well. In other words, you want to choose craft tools that inspire you. For example, check out the Caspian crochet hooks, wooden ocean-inspired crochet hooks that are on sale this month over at WeCrochet.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. Purchase items from those links and I receive a small commission. Your price does not change. THANK YOU.

caspian crochet hooks sale

Caspian Crochet Hooks Are Wooden

There are several different materials for crochet hooks. For example, you've likely worked with aluminum crochet hooks in the past. Perhaps you've worked with plastic or even, much more rarely, glass crochet hooks. Of all of the materials, wood and bamboo have the most variety in terms of how smooth they are.

The Caspian crochet hooks are wooden crochet hooks. They're smooth but they also have good grip. Many people appreciate the way that yarn glides nicely against wooden crochet hooks. It moves fast, but not too slick, which can make for comfortable crocheting for many crafters.

Deep Groove

As you figure out what types of crochet hooks you like best, you'll get familiar with hook anatomy. The throat of the crochet hook is where the groove is that catches the yarn. It varies in depth. The Caspian crochet hooks have a deep groove. Many crocheters find that this allows them to better control the yarn as they work each stitch. As a result, this is a favorite feature of these hooks among their fans.

Inspired by the Sea

Aesthetics matter. Any crochet hook can do the job. Getting the right fit and feel is key. But aesthetics are important as well. Why? Because crochet is something you do to give yourself joy and pleasure. It's a treat. It's a form of self-care. Therefore, you shouldn't neglect the small things. You should use yarn and tools that you truly love. Don't settle for less.

Many people love these specific crochet hooks entirely because of their beautiful design. They have an ocean feel to them. More specifically, they're inspired by the deep swirling beauty of the Caspian Sea, the world's largest salt lake. We as humans are innately drawn to the beauty of large bodies of water. To see this replicated in the swirling colors of the crochet hooks inspires us!

Sale on Caspian Crochet Hooks

caspian crochet hooks

WeCrochet has a sale of 30% off all of their Caspian Crochet Hooks. This deal is good now through 3/22/22. You can purchase the hook sizes that you want individually. Alternatively, you can purchase an entire set of crochet hooks, which range from size E-4 (3.5mm) up through K-10.5 (6.5mm)

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the Caspian crochet hooks made of?

So here's the thing… the Caspian crochet hooks are made of wood! They're super smooth, but they also have a nice grip so your yarn doesn't just slide right off. Honestly, it's a great combination for comfy crocheting.

Tell me more about the groove on these hooks.

Yes! The groove on a crochet hook is where it catches the yarn, and these Caspian hooks have a deep groove. Crafters really love this feature because it gives them more control over their yarn as they're making each stitch. It makes a big difference!

What inspired the look of these hooks?

Oh, they're just gorgeous! Honestly, they're inspired by the sea… specifically, the beautiful swirling colors of the Caspian Sea. It's amazing how something like a crochet hook can bring a little bit of nature's beauty right into your hands!

Is there a sale on these hooks right now?

You bet! Here's the scoop… WeCrochet is having a sale where you can get 30% off all of their Caspian Crochet Hooks. This deal is good through March 22, 2022, so grab them while you can!

Can I buy just one hook or do I have to buy a set?

Honestly, you have options! You can totally buy the individual hook sizes that you need… or, if you want the whole collection, you can snag an entire set. The sizes range from E-4 (3.5mm) all the way up to K-10.5 (6.5mm).

32 Free Pastel Patterns | Crochet and Knit

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As spring comes, light and bright colors come with it! Many people change up their wardrobes and decor to feature more pastel shades. Easter, in particular, inspires a lot of pastel crochet and knit patterns. Of course, pastels are also popular colors year-round when making items for babies and little kids! Whatever your reason, find some stunning pastel patterns to crochet and knit in this collection of Yarnspirations patterns.

Here are a few patterns that Marly has designed in light colors, check out the Garden Party Sweater (this would look great in dark shade too), Belo Casamento, Diamonds and Pearls, Pieces of You.

32 Free Pastel Patterns | Crochet and Knit

Pastel Crochet and Knit Blanket Patterns

These sweet baby blankets are perfect for the new little ones in your life. Make the larger blankets to keep in the living room for that spring chill in the evenings. The pastel colors complement a surprising array of different decor styles. Of course, these pastel crochet and knit blanket patterns are also extra great as baby shower gifts or gifts for newborns and young children.

Shadow Cable Baby Blanket Free Knitting Pattern

Pastel Crochet Knit Sweaters and Accessories Patterns

Whether a hat, a scarf, or a sweater, wearable items in pastel come back into fashion every spring. Some people love pastels. Others don't think that they can pull off wearing pastel crochet and knits. However, you might surprise yourself if you give it a go. Combine pastel accessories with neutral colors in your wardrobe for a chic, sophisticated style. You'll find patterns for all ages in this collection.

Crochet Kensington Cardigan Free Crochet Pattern

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are pastels and why are they so popular in yarn crafts?

Pastels are soft, light versions of colors… pink instead of red, sky blue instead of navy, mint instead of forest green, lavender instead of purple. They're created by adding white to saturated colors to reduce their intensity. In yarn crafts, pastel palettes evoke softness, gentleness, spring, and a sense of calm that fully saturated colors don't always have. Baby items especially benefit from soft pastel colors. Pastels also mix and coordinate beautifully together… a collection of pastels in different hues creates harmonious, visually pleasing combinations without the bold drama of bright colors.

What seasons and occasions are pastel yarn projects most appropriate for?

Spring is the classic pastel season… Easter, spring baby showers, garden party accessories. But pastel projects work beautifully year-round! Pastel home goods in soft mint and blush look fresh and modern in any season. Soft lavender and cream accessories are year-round staples in neutral-leaning wardrobes. Baby items in pastels are always appropriate. And for anyone who simply loves soft, gentle colors in their handmade pieces… there's no seasonal constraint. The 32 patterns in this collection reflect this year-round versatility.

Do pastel colors work well with cables and textured stitches?

Yes, and in a unique way! With very saturated colors, the stitch texture competes with the color vibrancy. With pastels, the soft color allows the stitch texture to read clearly without fighting the eye. Cable patterns in soft cream or pale sage look pristine and beautifully crafted. Seed stitch in blush pink has a gentle, lovely quality. The subtle palette puts the craftsmanship front and center. This is one of the reasons traditional Aran sweaters in natural cream shades became so iconic… the neutral color makes every stitch detail visible and celebrated.

What yarn brands have the best pastel color ranges?

Several brands are known for beautiful pastels! KnitPicks/WeCrochet has excellent “Almond” and other soft natural pastel shades. Lion Brand Basic Stitch has some lovely pastels. Paintbox Yarns specifically cultivates a range that includes soft, precise pastel tones. Malabrigo and other indie dyers often have gorgeous hand-dyed pastels with depth and complexity that solid commercial yarns lack. For baby items specifically, yarns labeled “baby” or “soft” often come in the softest, most gentle pastel ranges. Check photos carefully when ordering online since screen colors vary from real-world yarn colors.

Are there pastel patterns for men's items?

Less commonly, but why not? The association of pastels with femininity is largely cultural and completely breakable! Pale blue, sage green, and soft grey are traditionally more “masculine-coded” pastels that look beautiful on men's accessories and garments. A pale blue cable sweater is genuinely gorgeous. Soft sage fingerless mitts are very wearable for anyone. The 32 patterns in this collection likely include some neutrally-styled pieces where a pastel colorway would be equally appropriate for anyone. Make what you love in the colors you love… that's the real rule.

Top 12 Ravelry Free Crochet Patterns by Marly Bird

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Top Free Crochet Patterns - Marly Bird

There are many different places to find my patterns, including right here on the site. You can check out both my free and paid patterns here. You might look at my most popular YouTube video tutorials which are often for my patterns. Or, perhaps, you want to search Ravelry. Here are my top 12 most popular Ravelry free crochet patterns.

Note that these are free on my website or Yarnspirations. However, if you prefer an ad-free version, most of these are available for purchase on Ravelry.

1. Game Day 2021 Crochet Purse Pattern

Crochet Game Day Digital Pattern - Marly Bird

Every year I offer a few make-alongs that are super popular. One of these is the annual Game Day Mystery Make-along. On Super Bowl Sunday, we all play along together knitting and crochet with clues released every hour or two throughout the day. At day's end, you have a new project. The 2021 Crochet Purse Pattern is ranked as my most popular of all my Ravelry free crochet patterns.

2. Turkey Trot 2020 Crochet Pocket Shawl

Turkey Trot 2020 Pocket Shawl Digital Pattern - Marly Bird

The annual Turkey Trot is another of my popular make-alongs. This crochet pocket shawl is the second most popular of my Ravelry free crochet patterns. Who doesn't love a cozy yarn hug with pockets?! You can get the clues free on my site to complete the project or you can purchase the ad-free PDF through Ravelry.

3. Lacy Pineapple Stitch Crochet Shawl

Crochet pineapples are a classic design that you can update to a contemporary look with your yarn choice. That's what I've done here with this crochet shawl pattern, which is my third most popular Ravelry free crochet pattern. It's a free crochet pattern and I also offer a two-part video tutorial to take you through it. Here's part one:

4. Ribbed for Him and Her Messy Bun Optional Hat

There are a couple of great things about this free crochet hat pattern. First of all, you have the option to make it a messy bun hat. What people really love most though is the unique brim that you can create for this hat.

Ribbed Crochet Hat for Him and Her - Digital Pattern - Marly Bird

You'll use the simple slip stitch to create that. The pattern is free here on the site and I've got tutorials for it as well. It's a seamless, bottom-up crochet hat worked in the round. It's on Ravelry here.

5. Bumpy Road Spa Headband

Bumby Road Headband - Free Crochet Digital Pattern - Marly Bird

Who doesn't love a really quick, easy, instant gratification project? This headband is something you can work up really fast with a little bit of yarn from your stash. However, that doesn't mean it's not special. It's one of my most popular Ravelry free crochet patterns because it's a great self-care gift.

6. Wings of Hope Crochet Hat Pattern

Wings of Hope Hat Crochet Digital Pattern - Marly Bird

I created this purple ombre crochet hat pattern to raise awareness about pancreatic cancer. It's designed with a non-itchy yarn choice in case you want to make it for someone who is going through chemo treatment. I've created a video tutorial for this chevron crochet hat pattern to simplify it for you. If you want to purchase an ad-free version, get it through Ravelry.

7. Tournament of Stitches 2020 Mosaic Crochet Scarf

Tournament of Stitches Digital Crochet Pattern - Mosaic Crochet Scarf - Marly Bird

Tournament of Stitches is another one of my popular make-alongs. This one takes place during March Madness each year. In 2020, the crochet project was a mosaic crochet scarf. You can follow the clues in the original post to get this pattern for free, but it's also available for sale as an easy-to-read ad-free PDF.

8. One Ball Crochet Shawl Free Pattern

Roll With It Shawl - Free One Ball Crochet Digital Pattern - Marly Bird

Everyone likes a one-ball crochet pattern. It's an affordable way to create an accessory, like this shawl. Oftentimes, you can even shop your stash for the yarn. This is a filet mesh crochet triangle shawl that you can wear bandana-style if you wish. This one has an ad-free PDF you can purchase.

9. 2019 Turkey Trot Crochet Poncho Pattern

Turkey Trot 2019 Crochet Poncho Digital Pattern - Marly Bird

That's right, another Turkey Trot pattern made it into my Top 12 Ravelry free crochet pattern. This is a poncho pattern that everyone really enjoyed making. As with the other one, you can follow the clues in the main post on the website or purchase the ready-to-go ad-free PDF.

10. TOS 2021 Crochet Throw / Pillow Pattern

TOS Crochet Throw - Digital Pillow Pattern - Marly Bird

Last year's Tournament of Stitches was also one of my most popular patterns. This tells you that if you aren't participating in these various make-alongs, then you're missing out! It was a colorful geometric throw and/or pillow pattern.

11. Go To Crochet Baby Shower Blanket Pattern

Crochet Baby Shower Blanket - Crochet Digital Pattern - Marly Bird

Crochet baby shower gifts are among the most popular patterns that people look for. Baby blankets are fun projects because they're large enough to make you feel really accomplished and yet small enough to work up quickly before a baby shower. Moreover, every baby needs at least one special blanket, and it feels great to be able to create that for a baby with your own two hands.

12. Planned Pooling Scarf

Planned Pooling Crochet Scarf - Digital Pattern - Marly Bird

I love teaching planned pooling crochet to people. I have created patterns, video tutorials, and even a whole book on the topic. And the free planned pooling scarf pattern is right there in my Top 12 among my most popular crochet patterns on Ravelry.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Ravelry and why do crafters love it?

Ravelry is a free online community and database for knitters, crocheters, and fiber artists. Think of it as the social media platform, pattern library, and project journal all rolled into one. You can find millions of patterns (many of them free!), track your projects and yarn stash, see how other people made the same pattern in different yarns, and connect with other crafters. It's genuinely one of the most useful tools in a crafter's toolkit.

Do I have to pay to use Ravelry?

Nope! Ravelry is free to join and free to use. You create an account and you have access to the entire community, pattern database, project pages, stash tracker… all of it. Some individual patterns do cost money (designers sell their patterns through the platform), but there are hundreds of thousands of free patterns available too. Marly has several free patterns on Ravelry that you can download right now.

How do I download a free crochet pattern from Ravelry?

You'll need a free Ravelry account first. Once you're logged in, find the pattern you want, click on it, and look for the “Download” or “Get This Pattern” button. Free patterns will let you download immediately… paid patterns will take you through a checkout. After downloading, most patterns come as a PDF you can save to your device, print out, or view on your phone or tablet while you crochet.

Can I save Marly's patterns to my Ravelry library?

Yes! On any pattern page, there's an option to add it to your queue (projects you want to make someday), your library (patterns you own or have saved), or mark it as a project you're actively working on. You can also favorite patterns to find them easily later. Marly's Ravelry page has all of her patterns organized and searchable… it's a great resource alongside MarlyBird.com.

What are the most popular Marly Bird free crochet patterns on Ravelry?

This post highlights 12 of Marly's top free Ravelry patterns, and they cover a range of projects from accessories to garments. The patterns featured here have thousands of favorites and projects logged by crafters all over the world. Head over to Marly's Ravelry designer page to see the full list sorted by popularity… it's a fun way to discover which designs have resonated most with the community.

17 Knit Animal Hats | Free Patterns

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Whether for yourself or a loved one, animal hats are always popular! They're an easy way to create a costume, or just add a bit of whimsy to your everyday cold weather clothes.

Bonus: Don't miss the crochet animal hats!

17 Knit Animal Hats | Free Patterns
Bright green and blue knitted hat with large white eyes, featuring a playful design, on a textured background.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What animals are featured in knit animal hat patterns?

This collection of 17 has a great variety! Bears, foxes, raccoons, owls, cats… many of the beloved woodland and domestic animal themes that translate so beautifully into knitted ear-adorned beanies. Animal hats are incredibly popular for children but adults wear them too! Sports events, costume parties, and just general “life is short, wear the bear hat” occasions are all valid reasons to have one. The knitted versions have a more textured, sophisticated look than crochet animal hats, which appeals to knitters who want character without it looking too crafty.

Are knitted animal hats harder to make than plain beanies?

The hat body itself is usually the same construction as any basic beanie… just knit in the round. The “animal” part comes from ears, sometimes a face, and sometimes textural details worked into the hat or added after. Knitted ears are typically simple shapes made separately and seamed or picked up from the hat. The complexity depends on how many details the specific design has. A basic fox hat with pointed ears is very accessible. A detailed owl hat with multiple colors, textured feathers, and embroidered face is more advanced.

What yarn makes the best knitted animal hats?

Worsted weight wool or wool blend for warmth and good stitch definition… the ears need to hold their shape. Acrylic is practical for machine washability, especially for children's hats. For animal-specific colors: warm tans and browns for bears and foxes, grey for wolves and elephants, white for polar bears and owls. A contrasting color for the ear linings adds realism and visual interest. Look for yarn that's smooth enough to show colorwork or texture details, and soft enough to wear against a face without irritation.

How do I make the ears on a knit animal hat stand up properly?

Knitted ears hold their shape better than crochet ears because the knit fabric is denser. For pointed ears (fox, cat, wolf), work a simple triangle shape on a few stitches using increases then decreases. For rounded ears (bear, mouse), work a small circle or oval. Stuff lightly with fiberfill before closing for extra structure. Attach by seaming or picking up stitches directly from the hat surface… sewing through multiple layers at the base creates a sturdy anchor. For ears that need to stand very tall, a tiny bit of wire (wrapped in yarn so it's not exposed) inside can help.

Can I make an adult-sized animal hat from children's patterns?

You'll need to size up! Children's patterns use a smaller stitch count and fewer rounds for the hat height. To make an adult version, calculate how many more stitches you need based on your gauge (stitches per inch) and the adult head circumference you want. Add proportionally more rows for the hat body height. Keep the ear construction roughly the same… adult heads need bigger ears too, but the ratio should be similar. If you're comfortable with basic gauge math, scaling up a knit animal hat is very doable.

Tips for Knitting Animal Hats Like a Pro

Ready to tackle one of these adorable patterns? Here are some things I always keep in mind when working animal hats…

  • Pick the Right Yarn Weight: Most of these patterns call for worsted weight yarn like Red Heart Super Saver or Bernat Blanket. These budget-friendly options are perfect for experimenting, and they work up quickly on larger needles (usually US 8-10).
  • Master Your Cast-On: Animal hats typically use a stretchy cast-on for the brim, so the hat actually fits comfortably. I always reach for a long-tail cast-on for the best results.
  • Use Stitch Markers: Trust me… when you're adding ears or eyes in the round, stitch markers are your best friend. They keep you from accidentally increasing in the wrong spot.
  • Block Before Seaming: If your pattern requires you to sew on features (like eyes or ears), give those pieces a quick wet block first. It makes seaming SO much cleaner.

Want more guidance on working in the round? Check out my complete guide to knitting in the round for all the details on circular needles and DPNs.

Pattern Difficulty Breakdown

Most of these patterns are beginner to intermediate level… but some require more skills! The character balaclava and scoodies involve working longer tubes, while simpler hats like the polar bear use basic increases and decreases. Pick based on your comfort level, and don't hesitate to check out dinosaur patterns if you want fun alternatives!