April 2018: Table of Contents

A Note from the Editor:

Are you ready for warmer weather? After months spent bundling up in our bulkiest clothing, nothing quite compares to the feeling you get when you step outside for the first time after the snow has passed. Warm, flower-scented breezes replace previously chilly air and suddenly the world around you springs to life with color and new growth. There’s also a freshness that’s hard to describe – a sense of renewal, the chance to start with a clean slate, whether that means accomplishing new goals or clearing out your ever-growing yarn stash!

It’s with this rejuvenated sense of inspiration, that we bring you a collection of must-have patterns that are fit for the season. From sea-inspired patterns in the Cool Coastal section to lightweight tops and skirts you’ll want to flaunt all year long, you’re bound to find what you’re looking for in this versatile issue. We also haven’t forgotten about Easter! Find out how a little glue, spring-colored yarn and a balloon turn into the cutest granny square-inspired centerpieces.

Plus, don’t miss the incredible Dare to Dream Afghan from Quinny Zhang. Our editor Nicola saw this beauty at the CGOA conference last year and just had to have it for the magazine. It features freeform crochet, a technique that not everyone may be familiar with, but the results are stunning. Check out Tian Connaughton’s complementary article, Goodbye Rules, Hello Freeform Crochet, for tips and tricks on using freeform crochet in your own projects.

Happy crocheting,

Caitlin Eaton signature

P.S. Do you love Ravelry? Do you love to crochet? Then join our official Ravelry group for crocheters. In this group, we’ll discuss everything from our favorite crochet hooks to upcoming crochet alongs. Join right here!

Design submissions and article ideas should be submitted through our submission form.

Features

Zippers 101

Putting a zipper into crocheted fabric is always a little tricky. In my “Ring Around the Posies Skirt” design I used an invisible zipper for the closure at the center back waist. I chose an invisible zipper because it doesn’t show as much in the finished project. It is also less likely to snag the fabric when being opened and closed. Read More 

Goodbye Rules, Hello Freeform Crochet

What would it be like if you could paint with yarn? Would the yarn flow from your fingertips in the way that paint flows onto canvas? Would colors and shapes appear at the stroke of a crochet hook and would you be able to break rules like a true artist? Pablo Picasso is credited with saying, “Learn the rules like a pro so you can break them like an artist.” Once you’ve learned the “rules” of crochet, the doors to freeform crochet are wide open. Read More 

Too Cool For Stitch School

Want to make the Lavender bunnies? Wendy is here to give you some tips and tricks to making your pair perfect just in time for spring! Read More 

Lavender Beanie Bag Amigurumi Bunnies

Stuffed with plastic granules and lavender, these bunnies are the perfect anti-stress toy and the most beautiful lavender bags. When crocheted with a worsted weight yarn and stuffed with normal stuffing, they transform in the cutest amigurumi toys. Read More 

Patterns

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