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

Lantern Moon by Knitter’s Pride

By Leave a Comment

Our friends at Knitter's Pride have recently acquired the brand rights for Lantern Moon and its range of knitting and crochet products! They relaunched the brand in mid-December and we are loving the products that they've gifted us to try!

Disclosure: This review may contain affiliate links, for which I earn commission on sales. Your price doesn't change. Thank you for your support! Although we received products in exchange for a review, the opinions here are entirely our own.

History of Lantern Moon

The name Lantern Moon may ring a bell to you. In the early 2000's, the line was distinguished by its elegant design, the beauty of its materials and its support of indigenous craft and the people that produced it in Vietnam.

Due to production issues, the needles were no longer able to be produced in Vietnam but that's where Knitter's Pride was able to jump in and help. They've pulled production into their facilities and are working closely with the original brand creators, Joel and Sharon Woodcock, to ensure the integrity of the designs is maintained.

Knitter's Pride relaunches Lantern Moon brand
pictured: BeQuest Tunisian Set, Mindy Sleeve

Lantern Moon's Exquisite Knitting Needles and Crochet Hooks

The elegant and contemporary needles and hooks are made of ebony wood. It is a premium ebony with a polished, tight grain that is extremely resilient and smooth for an enjoyable knitting/crochet experience. The fixed and interchangeable needles have a smooth join featuring kink-free cords.

In other words, Lantern Moon needles and hooks are high-quality. You'll enjoy the glide of the yarn against the wood as you work. It will make your crafting experience easier and more delightful. When Knitter's Pride took over Lantern Moon production, they made sure to retain that high quality.

Moreover, these are beautiful products. Therefore, if you're the type of crafter who enjoys displaying your tools when you aren't using them, then you're going to take pleasure in these products.

Lantern Moon by Knitter's Pride
pictured: Meadow Drawstring Bag

Lantern Moon Storage Bags and Accessories

In addition to the beautiful needles and hooks, there are beautiful storage bags and accessories! For example, the Meadow Drawstring Bag is adorable. It is the perfect size for a project on-the-go! Pack up projects that you want to take with you to work on in lines and during a commute.

Similarly, the Mindy Sleeve is the perfect storage for darning needles and embroidery scissors with its magnetic clasp! The size, design, and style are all exactly right. If you enjoy having your craft supplies well-organized inside of beautiful storage products, then you'll want to make sure to check out this section of Lantern Moon by Knitter's Pride.

Lantern Moon by Knitter's Pride products for knitters and crocheters
pictured: Tunisian BeQuest set, Mindy Sleeve, Stitch Marker Pouch

Other Cute Things

Honestly, if you're ready to do some treat-yourself shopping, you'll find so much good stuff over at Lantern Moon by Knitter's Pride. There are adorable tassel stitch markers in beautiful jewel tones! A sock monkey tape measure and an adorable sheep accessory holder round out the helpful tools that every knitter and crocheter needs. If you like cute, but still grown-up, fun supplies that are also high-quality because you take your craft seriously, then you'll want to check out what they have to offer. We here at Marly Bird were glad we got that oportunity.

Sock Monkey Tape Measure
knitting and crochet supplies and storage
tassel stitch markers

Honesty, we here at team Marly Bird are so excited by this relaunch and hope that you all enjoy these products as much as we are! What will be the first thing you grab?!

You Might Also Like:

Frequently Asked Questions

What happened with the Lantern Moon brand?

So here's the thing… Knitter's Pride has taken over the brand rights for Lantern Moon! They relaunched it in mid-December and are making these gorgeous knitting and crochet tools.

What are the Lantern Moon needles and hooks made of?

Honestly… they're made of ebony wood! It's a premium ebony with a super smooth, polished finish that feels just lovely when you're working with your yarn.

Are the Lantern Moon products good quality?

Yes! They're really high-quality. Knitter's Pride made sure to keep that same beautiful craftsmanship and the yarn just glides so nicely on the wood.

Does Lantern Moon have bags and accessories too?

Oh my goodness, yes! They have the cutest project bags, like the Meadow Drawstring Bag, and even a Mindy Sleeve for your darning needles and scissors. Super organized and stylish!

Is this brand still focused on supporting crafters?

It sure is! The original brand supported indigenous craft in Vietnam, and while production moved, Knitter's Pride is working closely with the original creators to keep that integrity and beautiful design alive.

Charming Crochet Slouchy Hat Free Pattern (with Video Tutorial)

By Leave a Comment

I have made a lot of knitting and crochet tutorial videos over the years. Of course, most of these are for my own designs. However, I've also had the opportunity to do tutorial videos for a diverse range of Red Heart/ Yarnspirations patterns by other designers. I love helping you learn how to make different things in this way. One of my most popular crochet tutorial videos is for the Red Heart Charming Crochet Slouchy Hat free pattern.

Crochet Slouchy Hat Free Pattern

Crochet Slouchy Hat Video Tutorial

I'll tell you all about the pattern below. However, if you're already ready to dig in, here's the video tutorial:

Red Heart Boutique Unforgettable Waves

This crochet slouchy hat free pattern calls for Red Heart Boutique Unforgettable Waves yarn. This is a really unique yarn. It's from the Unforgettable family, of course, which is a popular yarn line. It has the same beautiful colorway magic that people have come to expect from this line. It's soft and luscious with lovely drape, just like the original Unforgettable. You can still machine wash and dry this yarn. And it's still a worsted weight yarn.

So, what makes it different from the regular Unforgettable? Unforgettable Waves is a Thick and Thin Yarn. So, although it's worsted weight, some parts are thinner and some parts are thicker. This creates such a terrific texture as you work. It is absolutely perfect for a crochet slouchy hat free pattern, so I can absolutely see why designer Cristina Mershon chose this yarn.

More About Charming Crochet Slouchy Hat Free Pattern

You'll crochet the brim of this hat in slip stitch rows. Then you'll join the brim into a loop. From there, you'll continue working up to the crown, crocheting in rounds. The body of the hat is worked in the easy, but effective, V-stitch, which showcases the thick and thin nature of the yarn perfectly. This hat is rich in both texture and color, making it a truly perfect accessory for dressing up a casual outfit. And since it's a slouchy hat, it's great for covering up a bad hair day.

You can see all that you need to see about the specific details of how to work the pattern in the video tutorial. It's considered an easy level crochet pattern, and I'm confident that you can handle it!

Get The Pattern

The Red Heart Charming Crochet Slouchy Hat free pattern is available over on Yarnspirations.

Charming Crochet Slouchy Hat Free Pattern

You Might Also Like:

Frequently Asked Questions

What yarn do you use for this hat?

So here's the thing… this pattern calls for Red Heart Boutique Unforgettable Waves yarn. It's a really unique yarn from the Unforgettable family, known for its beautiful colorway magic and lovely drape!

Is this hat pattern difficult to make?

Honestly… no! It's considered an easy level crochet pattern. You'll crochet the brim in slip stitch rows, then join it into a loop and work up to the crown in rounds using the V-stitch.

Where can I find the full pattern?

Yes! You can find the free Red Heart Charming Crochet Slouchy Hat pattern over on Yarnspirations.

What makes Unforgettable Waves yarn special?

Oh, it's a thick and thin yarn! So while it's a worsted weight, some parts are thinner and some are thicker. This creates such a terrific texture and is absolutely perfect for this slouchy hat.

Can I use a different yarn if I don't have Unforgettable Waves?

While the pattern was designed with Unforgettable Waves in mind to showcase its unique texture, you could certainly try a similar worsted weight yarn. Just keep in mind that the final look might vary a bit!

Quick Faux Fur Crochet Mittens You’ll Want to Wear All…

By Leave a Comment

As soon as I posted a photo of these faux fur crochet mittens on social media, you all started asking for the pattern. They're just impossible to resist, aren't they? Heck, my mom tried to steal mine! They are fuzzy and cozy and comfortable and warm, which are all of the things that we crave when the weather gets cold. Moreover, they work up super quickly. You can start them right now and wear them a few hours later.

Quick, Easy Faux Fur Crochet Mittens Pattern

This is an easy pattern. You'll use single crochet to work this design. The nature of the yarn and that dense stitch creates such super warm and cozy mittens. Of course, you'll do a bit of shaping to get the fingers and thumbs right, but an adventurous beginner should be able to complete this pattern.

faux fur mittens crochet pattern

It's All About The Yarn

The simple shaping and stitches of these faux fur crochet mittens allow the yarn to be the star of the show. In this pattern, you'll actually use two different yarns at the same time. You'll hold them together as you crochet, working a double-stranded design that adds warmth, density, and speed to the project.

The main star of the project is Red Heart Hygge Fur, which is a bulky weight faux fur yarn. That's where you get the look of the furry, fuzzy, comfy mittens. However, you'll work simultaneously with Red Heart Hygge Charm, which is a worsted weight yarn. This makes the mittens thick and durable. Additionally, some people find it challenging to crochet with faux fur; holding that second strand with it makes it easier to grasp onto your hook.

The Hygge Fur yarn comes in more than one dozen rich solid colors. Choose the one you love the most. Then, when you realize how fast this pattern truly works up, choose to make a pair in every color! They're a great winter charity donation item too!

More About The Faux Fur Crochet Mittens

These mittens are designed for four different teen/adult sizes – small through XL.

As you'll see in the pattern notes, I've offered a smart tip for making sure that your mittens are definitely matching: work them at the same time. In other words, work a section of the right mitten then work a section of the left mitten and back and forth until you have finished two mittens. This allows you to see that your tension/gauge aren't changing as you work, makes the mittens match each other into a perfect set, and also keeps you interested in the project as you move back and forth.

Because of this recommendation, I also recommend that you get two balls of each yarn. The mittens only require one ball per pair. However, it's easier to work one mitten on one and the other on a second one, right? And this gives you the opportunity to go ahead and make two pairs!

Get The Pattern

You can get the free Fur Real Mittens pattern here on the blog or purchase an ad-free version on Ravelry.

crochet mittens in faux fur

You Might Also Like:

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these mittens super warm?

Yes! They are fuzzy and cozy and comfortable and warm… The nature of the yarn and that dense stitch creates such super warm and cozy mittens.

Can a beginner crochet these mittens?

Honestly… an adventurous beginner should be able to complete this pattern. You'll use single crochet to work this design, and holding the second strand with the faux fur makes it easier to grasp onto your hook.

What yarn do I need for these mittens?

So here's the thing… you'll actually use two different yarns at the same time. You'll hold them together as you crochet… The main star is Red Heart Hygge Fur, and you'll work simultaneously with Red Heart Hygge Charm.

How long will these mittens take to make?

They work up super quickly. You can start them right now and wear them a few hours later… you can make a pair in every color!

Should I make my mittens at the same time?

Yes! I've offered a smart tip for making sure that your mittens are definitely matching… work them at the same time. This allows you to see that your tension/gauge aren't changing as you work, makes the mittens match each other into a perfect set, and also keeps you interested in the project.

Cozy Crochet Blanket Hoodie Pattern

By 1 Comment

Have you seen the COMFY? It's a blanket, it's a hoodie, it's a one-size-fits-all amazingly cozy blanket hoodie. Everyone on my team has been wearing them this winter, especially as the snow has been coming down on the East Coast. While we all love this hoodie, we also like the idea of making our own similar project. After all, that's what we do, right? So, we wanted to make sure that you don't miss the Bernat Lounge Around Crochet Blanket Hoodie free crochet pattern from Yarnspirations.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, for which I get a commission on sales. Your price doesn't change. Thank you for your ongoing support.

blanket hoodie crochet pattern

We Love Wearing Blankets

The COMFY is terrific. However, it's obviously not the first wearable blanket. Seeing it, you're immediately reminded of the Snuggie. And there have been other similar designs over time. We love the COMFY because it fits like a hoodie but feels like a blanket. Regardless, it's just another example of a human truth: most of us love wearing blankets! What's better than cozying up with a blanket on top of you? Put one on that you can take with you when you walk to the kitchen to warm up your cocoa! It's the perfect winter loungewear.

COMFY hoodie

Crochet Blanket Hoodie Inspired By COMFY

The COMFY is its own patented thing, of course. However, like all great designs, it has inspired makers of all crafts to create their own similar styles. So, of course, the Bernat Lounge Around Crochet Blanket Hoodie isn't the COMFY exactly. But if you love the COMFY and love to crochet, then you'll also probably like this pattern.

Bernat Lounge Around Crochet Blanket Hoodie

Bernat Lounge Around crochet blanket hoodie

This crochet blanket hoodie is a free Yarnspirations pattern. It's designed using Bernat Blanket Twist yarn. This is a #6 Super Bulky yarn. It's a chenille-style yarn that's perfect for blankets and much more. And therefore, it's ideal for a crochet blanket hoodie, too. It's cozy, comfy, plush, and lush. Moreover, you can machine wash and dry this yarn, which means that you can throw your hoodie in the wash and have it ready to wear again in a couple of hours.

Additionally, since this is such a bulky yarn, it works up quickly, so you won't have to wait long to wear it the first time once you start crocheting it! You crochet the hoodie in five separate pieces and seam them together. Add the hood after you've seamed the rest of the pieces and work it from the neck up. Though it requires some shaping, it's an easy-level crochet pattern. Notice that you'll add a pocket on the front to recreate that hoodie feeling – and have a place to keep your hands warm.

This pattern comes in two sizes. It's essentially a one-size-fits-all design that's been expanded upon to truly fit more people comfortably. The smaller size is perfect for XS-XL, while the larger size fits 2XL – 5 XL.

Get The Pattern

The Bernat Lounge Around Crochet Blanket Hoodie is a free pattern over on Yarnspirations. Are you looking for more cozy knit and crochet patterns over at Yarnspirations? Check out their roundup of Classics to Curl Up With.

Blanket Hoodie Pattern

You Might Also Like:

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a blanket hoodie?

A blanket hoodie (also called a hoodie blanket or wearable blanket) is exactly what it sounds like… a blanket with a hood and sometimes sleeves so you can wear it like an oversized garment. It's the ultimate cozy piece… you're wrapped in a blanket that stays on when you walk around. The crochet version creates an incredibly soft, warm fabric that's perfect for lounging, working from home, or movie marathons. It's the sweater for people who love blankets… and really, who doesn't?

How much yarn do I need for a crochet blanket hoodie?

A lot… this is a big project! A standard adult blanket hoodie uses roughly 3,000 to 5,000 yards depending on the yarn weight and body size. Bulky weight yarns use fewer yards but larger quantities by weight. Worsted weight takes more yards but is lighter overall. Check the pattern's specific yarn requirements and buy a bit extra for safety… running out of yarn near the end of a blanket hoodie is tragic. This is not a stash-buster project… buy all your yarn at once from the same dye lot.

Is a blanket hoodie pattern beginner friendly?

Some simpler constructions are approachable for confident beginners! The most basic blanket hoodies are essentially large rectangles with a hood added at the top… if you can work large flat pieces and do a simple seam, you can manage those. More structured designs with sleeves, pockets, or shaping require more experience. The main challenge is the sheer size… you're working on a HUGE project with many stitches per row, which requires patience and consistent tension over many hours of work. Not hard, just big!

What yarn is best for a crochet blanket hoodie?

Super soft and washable is the priority since this will be worn against skin and used constantly. Soft acrylic in bulky or super bulky weight is the most popular choice… it's warm, machine washable, affordable, and comes in beautiful colors. Blanket yarn like Bernat Blanket is specifically designed for exactly this kind of cozy project. Avoid anything scratchy or stiff… you're basically wearing this as a second skin. The softer and squishier the better. And choose a color you love because you're going to be seeing a LOT of it!

Can I make a blanket hoodie as a gift?

It's an incredible gift… but plan accordingly! A blanket hoodie takes significant time to make (expect 15 to 30+ hours for an adult size), uses a lot of yarn (budget $40-80+ for materials), and is quite personal in terms of size. To make it as a gift, you need accurate body measurements (or choose a generous oversized size that fits most adults). The recipient's favorite color is important since they'll be wearing it constantly. When someone receives a handmade blanket hoodie, they know the time and love that went into it. It's genuinely one of the most memorable handmade gifts you can give.

Tips for Making Your Blanket Hoodie Even Cozier

Okay, BiCrafty Bestie, before you dive into this pattern, let me share a few things that'll make your project even better. Since you're working with such a lush, thick yarn, pay extra attention to your tension. Bernat Blanket Twist is forgiving, but keeping your stitches consistent means your seams will line up beautifully when you join those five pieces together.

Hoodie-Specific Hacks

  • Secure that pocket placement: Use stitch markers to mark exactly where your front pocket goes before you start stitching it on. Trust me, you don't want wonky pockets on something this cozy!
  • Seaming matters here: Since Blanket Twist is so chunky, use a tapestry needle and match your yarn perfectly. A whip stitch or mattress stitch will give you the smoothest, most polished finish.
  • Hood shaping: The pattern includes decreases to shape that hood. Don't skip them! They're what make this actually look like a hoodie and not just a blanket you threw over your head.
  • Blocking is optional but helpful: A quick steam or wet blocking helps even out those bulky stitches and gives you crisp edges where pieces meet.

Want more blanket-style patterns? Check out our guide to chunky crochet blankets for even more cozy inspo!

26 Cozies for Around Your House | Free Crochet and Knit…

By Leave a Comment

Cozies are a great project! They can protect items, cover imperfections, refresh tired designs, keep things warm or cool, add color, and are just fun to make. They are usually easy and small, and are often a great portable project.

You can have cozies for tea pots, mugs and cups, bottles and cans, plants, and jars! You can also have cozies for electronic devices, water bottles, and many different household items. This collection of FREE Yarnspirations patterns is ready for you to cozy up your home!

26 Cozies for Around Your House | Free Crochet and Knit Patterns

Cozies for Electronics

Protect your tablet, e-reader, or other electronic device with a handmade sleeve before you put it into your bag.

Cabled E-Reader Cozy Free Knitting Pattern

Hot Water Bottle Cozies

Hot water bottles are even more comfortable when you slip them into a warm, washable cover.

Knit Hot Water Bottle Cover Free Knitting Pattern

Household Object Cozies

There's not one unifying theme for these cozies, but they will work on some household object!

Stool Leg Cozies Free Crochet Pattern

You May Also Like

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of things can I make cozies for?

So here's the thing… you can make cozies for all sorts of things around your house! We've got patterns for tea pots, mugs, bottles, plants, and jars… plus electronic devices, water bottles, and lots of other household bits and bobs. It's really about protecting things, covering up any little oopsies, or just adding a splash of color!

Are these patterns difficult to make?

Honestly… the cozies themselves are usually pretty easy and small, which makes them a great portable project. This collection has free crochet and knit patterns that are mostly advanced beginner, so they're perfect for when you want to make something cute without too much fuss.

Can I make cozies for my electronics?

Yes! Protecting your gadgets is a big one… there are patterns for tablet covers, e-readers, iPods, and even laptop covers. You can find crochet and knit options to keep your electronics safe when they're tucked away in your bag.

Do you have any patterns for hot water bottles?

Oh, absolutely! Making a cozy for your hot water bottle is such a lovely idea… it makes them even more comfy and cozy. We've got a few different patterns for those, so you can pick one that suits your style.

Are these patterns just for crochet, or are there knit ones too?

Nope, not just crochet! This whole collection is a mix of free crochet and knit patterns. So no matter your preference, you'll find something you can work up to cozy up your home!

17 FREE Knit and Crochet Game Day Patterns

By 2 Comments

With the Super Bowl coming up soon I thought it would be the perfect time to round up some of the cute football related patterns out there. Some are knit and some are crochet so I hope that you find something that you like as a great game day pattern. Work them up now before the game!

On the day of the game, don't miss the Game Day Mystery Make Along! Each year, I host a stitch-along for knitters and crocheters. Clues are released throughout the day, and you don't know what you're making before you start! Find out more about the Game Day Mystery Make Along!

17 FREE Knit and Crochet Game Day Patterns
[Read more…]