You see it all the time within the craft community; people proclaiming the benefits of making something with their own hands for their mental-health and general wellbeing, and I’m wholeheartedly one of those people. It’s not the reason I started with crochet, but it’s definitely one of the reasons I continue with it now.

I’d be wanting to try out a checkerboard crochet pattern for a while. I’d been seeing it everywhere and, although I’m not usually one to jump straight on a trend, this one was irresistible.

This project was inspired simultaneously by a stitch pattern I found on Pinterest, as well as some gorgeous yarn that I have had waiting in my stash for years. Both calling out to me to be made into something pretty and practical. Thus this water-bottle carrier was brought into existence.

If you’re looking for a fast and simple project to satisfy your creativity for an evening, then I’ve got a pattern for you… these cute boho wall-hangings can be made within an hour and have just the right level of challenge and ease to keep you interested.

Many moons ago I made some crochet eyes with the intention of adding them to a wall-hanging, but as it goes with a lot of design ideas it didn’t really work out. I was left with these kind of cool looking crochet eyes though…

It feels so good to be back enjoying creating again in this way, and as a celebration of sorts I’ve decided to write up the pattern for the crocheted house I used to make.

Having a clear vision is something I often tell clients is really important for your business. It helps you to make decisions, communicate to your customers as well as generally being your guiding light when doubt sets in. I didn’t come up with this nugget of wisdom; it’s pretty standard advice to be fair. But what about if you don’t have a vision, or even an idea - what then?

This year I’ve been looking for some cool and sustainable ways to decorate our house for the festivities… I’ve also made this crocheted spider garland.