I'm Marie from Underground Crafter. Each month during 2017, I'll be sharing a seasonal roundup of crochet patterns by some of the many talented designers who are members of the Crochet Guild of America.

This month's roundup features 9 (mostly free) patterns that are perfect for spring. The green in these projects is sure to delight (but, of course, you can choose your favorite colors for your own versions). All photos are used with permission of the respective designer or publisher. Enjoy!

Clockwise from upper left corner:

• Vintage Bloom Scarf by ELK Studio (free)
• Lucky Day Cowl with photo tutorial by Moogly (free)
• Irish Crochet Inspired Hats for Babies, Kids, and Adults with video tutorial by Naztazia (free)
• Cabled Mitts by Jessie At Home (free)
• Amazing Grace Lucky Green Shawl by Beatrice Ryan Designs (free)
• Simple Hooded Sweater by Busting Stitches (free)
• Charmed Cloche by Pattern Paradise (free)
• Triplet Ripple Baby Blanket with video tutorial by Underground Crafter (free)
• Hourglass Cabled Afghan by A Crocheted Simplicity (premium)

What are your favorite crochet projects for spring?

9 (Mostly Free) Crochet Patterns Perfect for Valentine's Day

I'm Marie from Underground Crafter and I'm excited to share a new monthly series of posts with you for 2017! Each month, I'll be sharing a seasonal roundup of crochet patterns by some of the many talented designers who are members of the Crochet Guild of America.

This month's roundup features 9 (mostly free) patterns that are perfect for Valentine's Day. All photos are used with permission of the respective designer or publisher. Enjoy!

Clockwise from upper left corner:

• Tunisian Extended Knit Scarf with video tutorial by Underground Crafter (free)
• Heart Throb Blanket by Marly Bird for Red Heart (free)
• Valentine's Day Flower Pot Cover by Oombawka Design Crochet (free)
• Easy Crochet Valentine's Day Basket by The Stitchin' Mommy (free)
• Sachets of Love by Pattern Paradise (free)
• Love Is Cold Earwarmer by Moogly (free)
• Trellis Scarf by Jessie At Home (free)
• Eskimo Kisses Leg Warmers by Just Be Happy Crochet (premium)
• Floating Petals Fingerless Gloves by Same DiNamics Crochet (free)

What are your favorite projects to make for Valentine's Day?

CGOA Member Spotlight: Heidi Yates

I'm Marie from Underground Crafter and this is my twelfth and final post in a series of interviews highlighting the work of a Crochet Guild of America member. (Don't worry, I'll be back in 2017 with a different series of monthly guest posts!)

Heidi Yates.

This month's post is spotlighting Heidi Yates, the crochet designer and crafts blogger behind Totally Snappy/Snappy Tots. Heidi can also be found online at Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, Ravelry, and Twitter.

All images are © Heidi Yates/Snappy Tots/Totally Snappy  and are used with permission.

Messy Beanie Buddies, premium crochet pattern by Heidi Yates for sale on Ravelry.

Underground Crafter (UC): How did you first get started crocheting? 

Heidi: My mom taught me when I was little. I didn't really start crocheting a lot until about 7 years ago when knitting became too painful for my wrists. I picked up crochet again and, with ergonomic hooks, am able to crochet for hours without pain. 

Icicle Ike, free crochet pattern by Heidi Yates.

UC: When did you start designing?

Heidi: I can't remember a time when I wasn't designing something.  I grew up in a very creative home and my mom always encouraged us to draw and try different hobbies. My first published "designs" were tole painted pieces in 1995. I wrote a book and several magazine articles. After that I designed knitted pieces and crocheted pieces. 

Cotton Flapper, free crochet pattern by Heidi Yates.

UC: How long have you been a member of the CGOA? What’s your favorite thing about being a member? 

Heidi: I am a newbie. This is my second year and I'm still finding all of the things they offer. I have enjoyed many of their publications. 

Shark Nap Blanket, premium crochet pattern by Heidi Yates for sale on Ravelry.

UC: You have a multi-craft background. Does your tole painting experience influence your crochet at all? 

Heidi: Absolutely and more so this upcoming year. For over a year I've been working on a new adventure with my painting (prolonged due to personal events) and eventually will be releasing a whole new line of crochet patterns inspired by those designs as well.

I hope my creations look like each other. I think I have a whimsical world playing out in my brain and little by little pieces come to life. 

Velvety Slouch and Scarf, free crochet pattern by Heidi Yates.

UC: What are your favorite types of crochet projects to make?

Heidi: I wish there was an eighth day each week dedicated to crocheting just for the heck of it.  There are tons of patterns I'd love to try for my home and gifts. I mostly enjoy crocheting things for kids.. Of all ages. The brighter and more whimsical, the better. 

Troll Toes and Big Feet, premium crochet pattern by Heidi Yates for sale on Ravelry.

UC: What will you be working on in 2017? What's next for you?

Heidi: I've been working behind the scenes for quite some time and hope to put everything in place by spring, 2017. "Out with the old and more of the best" is my motto for 2017. 

Thanks for sharing your love of crochet with us, Heidi!

CGOA Member Spotlight: BreeAnna Laub

I'm Marie from Underground Crafter and this is the eleventh post in a series of interviews where I highlight the work of a Crochet Guild of America member.

BreeAnna Laub.

This month's post features BreeAnna Laub, the crochet designer and blogger behind String with Style. She is also on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, Ravelry, and Twitter.

All images are © BreeAnna Laub/String with Style and are used with permission.

Buffalo Check Obsession Scarf, free crochet pattern by String with Style.

Underground Crafter (UC): How did you first get started crocheting?
BreeAnna: My grandmother taught me how to crochet when I was about 10. Her arthritis was getting so bad that she couldn't do it anymore and I showed so much interest that I was gifted all of her yarn, pattern books and hooks! I LOVED it!!! Once I started I didn't stop. I asked for hooks and yarn and patterns for Christmas. My parents thought I was crazy but I loved it and I dreamed of being able to do something with crochet for a living someday.

Vertical Textures Afghan, free crochet pattern by String with Style.

UC: When did you start designing?
BreeAnna: I started designing in 2012.

UC: How long have you been a member of the CGOA? What’s your favorite thing about being a member?
BreeAnna: This is my very first year being a member of the CGOA and I don't know why it took me so long to finally join. It has been a wonderful year. I would say my favorite thing is the connections I've been able to make and the people I've been able to meet because of it.

Granny Stitch Triangle Scarf, free crochet pattern by String with Style.

UC: What are your favorite types of crochet projects for relaxing?
BreeAnna: For relaxing I like mindless projects. Something with an easy to memorize stitch count pattern that I can just keep going on without stopping to count stitches or change colors. Afghans, scarves, cowls, those types of projects.

Diamond Weave Hat, crochet pattern by String with Style for sale on Ravelry.

UC: What are your favorite types of crochet projects for challenging yourself?
BreeAnna: If I want a challenge I usually dive into thread or lace crochet. I also really love more advanced stitches that offer a fun texture or effect.

Cabled Cutie Slouch, free crochet pattern by String with Style.

UC: What are your favorite types of crochet projects to give as gifts?
BreeAnna: Right now I would have to say hats and fingerless gloves are my favorite gifts to give.

Star Bright Angled Scarf, free crochet pattern by String with Style.

UC: What are your favorite types of crochet projects for cold weather?
BreeAnna: I love to work on Afghans in the winter so I can snuggle up under them as I go. I also love to make different scarves, shawls, wraps and hats in the winter. It's like having a whole new outfit when you have a new accessory like that.

Planned Color Pooling Argyle Dishcloths, free crochet pattern by String with Style.

UC: What are you working on in 2016? What's next for you?
BreeAnna: In 2016 I have mostly been working on building my pattern base after my year off. It has been challenging with a 1 year old but I think I'm getting a rhythm down. It has been a fun creative year making a lot of things that have been swimming around in my head and the majority of them are being released over the next few months for this chilly winter we have coming.

As far as what's next, I would really like to step into the video space that has become so popular. I'm working on offering some new things this coming year in 2017 that I think are going to be really fun and also valuable to my friends and followers.

Thanks for sharing your love of crochet with us, BreeAnna!

CGOA Member Spotlight: Jess Mason

I'm Marie from Underground Crafter and this is my tenth post in a series where I spotlight a Crochet Guild of America member with an interview. 

Jess Mason.

This month's interview features Jess Mason from Screen to Stitch, a crochet designer and fiber artist community manager. Jess learned to crochet as a teen from her grandmother and has been designing patterns for the past several years. You can find Jess on Screen to Stitch. She is also on Ravelry and members of her Facebook group get access to free patterns a week early.

All images are used with permission and are © Jess Mason/Screen to Stitch.

Yarn Bombed Door Knob, free crochet pattern by Screen to Stitch.

Underground Crafter (UC): How did you first get started crocheting?

Jess: I started crocheting at about 15 when my grandma taught me to chain. It was all I could do when I started, so I think I chained an entire skein of yarn to practice! Then my grandma taught me to single and double crochet. From there, I hopped on YouTube and the rest is history!

Batik Zipper Pouch, premium crochet pattern by Screen to Stitch.

UC: When did you start designing?
Jess: I started designing in 2013. I didn’t really think much would come of it, I just wanted to have a bit of fun!

UC: How long have you been a member of the CGOA? What’s your favorite thing about being a member?
Jess: I’ve been a member for two years. I love connecting with other members. I don’t have many friends that crochet, so being able to connect and chat with other crocheters is just a blast!

Zen Blanket, free crochet pattern by Screen to Stitch.

UC: What are your favorite types of crochet projects for relaxing?
Jess: Scrap blankets! Whenever I really want to zone out and relax, I work on simple, mindless projects like the Zen Blanket.

Cutie Acorns in 3 Sizes, premium crochet pattern by Screen to Stitch.

UC: What are your favorite types of crochet projects for challenging yourself?
Jess: Amigurumi…I love learning new construction techniques and different ways to make shapes with crochet.

UC: What are your favorite types of crochet projects to give as gifts?
Jess: Hats and scarves, because there are so many different designs out there so there’s something for everyone.

Scrappy Snake, crochet pattern by Screen to Stitch in October, 2016 issue of Happily Hooked.

UC: What are your favorite types of crochet projects for colder weather?
Jess: Big, squishy cowls! I especially like this one from Purl Soho. 

Uni-CORN, free crochet pattern by Screen to Stitch.

UC: What are you working on in 2016? What's next for you?
Jess: 2016 is the year of connection! I’m building an awesome and fun Facebook community and that’s where I’m spending a lot of my time nowadays! I just love seeing people’s projects, answering questions and connecting with my fans! 

What’s next?! More patterns, more fun, more connection! ;) If you want to get in on some of that, join the place where it all goes down, my email list.

Thanks for sharing your love of crochet with us, Jess!

CGOA Member Spotlight: Tamara Kelly

I'm Marie from Underground Crafter and this is the ninth post in my monthly series highlighting a member of the Crochet Guild of America with an interview.

Tamara Kelly.

This month's interview is with Tamara Kelly from Moogly. Tamara is a crochet designer, blogger, teacher, and author. She's also a mom of three. She lives in Iowa with her husband and children. Tamara describes herself as "an unrepentant yarn addict," but then again, aren't we all? You can find Tamara on Moogly, or follow her on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, Ravelry, Twitter, and YouTube. Tamara is a Craftsy instructor, and you can get 50% off any of her classes using this link.

All images are used with permission and are © Tamara Kelly/Moogly.

Amelia Shawl, free crochet pattern by Tamara Kelly/Moogly.

Underground Crafter (UC): How did you first get started crocheting?

Tamara: I had been wanting to learn how to crochet for years (I've always been crafty!), but this was back before YouTube. So I had to meet someone who knew how first! That turned out to be my sister-in-law! She taught me how to single crochet, and I was off and running from there!

Ups and Downs Slouchy Beanie in 3 sizes, free crochet pattern by Tamara Kelly/Moogly.

UC: When did you start designing?

Tamara: I always sort of goofed around making my own stuff, but I didn't try actually writing anything down for several years. Even then it was a slow start - a dishcloth in 2008 was all I did until things really started to take off in 2011, and it became my full time job!

Mesmerizing Mini Bag, free crochet pattern by Tamara Kelly/Moogly.

UC: How long have you been a member of the CGOA? What’s your favorite thing about being a member?

Tamara: I've been a member for about 2 or 3 years now - the time has flown by! My favorite thing is connecting with other designers, and going to the CGOA Conference! And I love doing my part to help spread the love of crochet!

Amara Shawl, free crochet pattern by Tamara Kelly/Moogly.

UC: You've gone to several CGOA Conferences. What are your favorite things about attending.

Tamara: Oh gosh, where to start? I love meeting Moogly readers, taking classes to expand my skills, and meeting people who enjoy nerding out about crochet as much as I do!

Capulin Cross Body Bag, free crochet pattern by Tamara Kelly/Moogly.

UC: You also teach crochet. Does your teaching influence your designing?

Tamara: Yes! Most of my teaching is done online - through Craftsy classes or YouTube videos. I learn a lot while teaching - even when it's just me and camera - and it influences how I word my patterns, and what techniques I include. 

Modern Rose Afghan, free crochet pattern by Tamara Kelly/Moogly.

UC: What are your favorite types of crochet projects for relaxing? 

Tamara: Blankets! Once I've got that repeat down, it's all sit back and relax!

Eloise Girls Sweater in 3 sizes, free crochet pattern by Tamara Kelly/Moogly. You can get the Eloise Baby Sweater in 5 sizes here. 

UC: What are your favorite types of crochet projects for challenging yourself? 

Tamara: Sweaters! So. much. math. 

Shannon Infinity Scarf, free crochet pattern by Tamara Kelly/Moogly.

UC: What are your favorite types of crochet projects to give as gifts? 

Tamara: Tote bags and infinity scarves - they are guaranteed to fit!

Snow Drops Reversible Cowl, free crochet pattern by Tamara Kelly/Moogly.

UC: What are you working on in 2016? What's next for you?

Tamara: This year my husband is going to be joining me to work on Moogly full time as well! We're hoping that this will only increase the quality level, and free me up to do some more projects and expand even more. Once we get the new office remodel in the basement done that is... I'll also have a book coming out this year - assuming all goes according to plan!

Thanks for sharing your love of crochet with us, Tamara!

CGOA Member Spotlight: Amy Ramnarine

I'm Marie Segares from Underground Crafter and this is the eighth post in my monthly series highlighting a CGOA member with an interview.

Amy Ramnarine.

This month's interview is with Amy Ramnarine from The Stitchin' Mommy. Amy is a freelance crochet designer and blogger. Amy has been crocheting for seven years and she is also a knitter (on and off). Amy has been a professional crochet designer for the past four years and also shares recipes and craft projects on her blog. Prior to her design career, she worked as an Analyst at Goldman Sachs for five years and was a preschool teacher for two years. She's now a work-at-home-mom of two living in New York. You can find Amy at The Stitchin' Mommy, or follow her on Etsy, Facebook, G+, Instagram, Pinterest, Ravelry, and Twitter. 

All images are used with permission and are © Amy Ramnarine/The Stitchin' Mommy.

Apple of My Eye Apple Cozy, free crochet pattern by The Stitchin' Mommy.

Underground Crafter (UC): How did you first get started crocheting? 

Amy: A friend of mine tried to teach me how to crochet about 8 years ago. I didn't really catch on but I was determined to learn since I was between jobs and needed a hobby. I started watching YouTube videos and borrowed crochet books from the library. I started teaching myself how to crochet and it eventually brought me to where I am now.

Kiss Me at Midnight Quick Cowl, free crochet pattern by The Stitchin' Mommy.

UC: When did you start designing? 

Amy: I started designing about 4 years ago. I had been crocheting for a few years already and I was ready to express myself through crochet with my own designs. 

Sunshine and Hugs Beanie, free crochet pattern by The Stitchin' Mommy.

UC: How long have you been a member of the CGOA? What’s your favorite thing about being a member? 

Amy: I have been a member of the CGOA for two years now. I love that the CGOA allows crocheters to connect with one another through the CGOA website and in person through local chapter meetings and the CGOA conference. I also love that the CGOA provides all of it's members with opportunities to learn and grow with the help of reading materials, classes, and other programs.

Mini Clutch Purse, free crochet pattern by The Stitchin' Mommy.

UC: You used to be a preschool teacher. Has your background in teaching had an impact on your designing and blogging? 

Amy: I think the organization skills that I picked up when I was teaching have helped to keep me organized during my blogging career. I have definitely utilized my task management and scheduling skills when it comes to working with sponsors, yarn companies, and other bloggers. Now if I could only utilize the skills to help me clean up my craft room!

Stashbuster Granny Stripe Afghan, free crochet pattern by The Stitchin' Mommy.

UC: What are your favorite types of crochet projects for relaxing? 

Amy: I like to work on blankets that have a very easy stitch pattern so that I don't even have to look down. I can just continually crochet without thinking. My favorite easy one to work on is my Stashbuster Granny Stripe Afghan.

Rising Sun Afghan Square, free crochet pattern by The Stitchin' Mommy.

UC: What are your favorite types of crochet projects for challenging yourself? 

Amy: Anything related to Tunisian crochet. I am still a novice with Tunisian but I do enjoy a good challenge. 

Little Bubbles Dishcloth, free crochet pattern by The Stitchin' Mommy.

UC: What are your favorite types of crochet projects for warm weather? 

Amy: I don't really like to sweat it out in the summer under a huge wool blanket so, tote bags and anything that I can use around the house like baskets, coasters, and dishcloths.

Shell Stitch Baby Blanket, free crochet pattern by The Stitchin' Mommy.

UC: What are your favorite types of crochet projects to give as gifts? 

Amy: Baby blankets. They are near and dear to my heart. I make a baby blanket for all of my friends and family members when they are expecting. It's been a kind of tradition of mine that I plan to keep going for as long as I can. This was the first one that I designed.

Fluffy Clusters Infinity Scarf, free crochet pattern by The Stitchin' Mommy.

UC: What are you working on in 2016? What's next for you? 

Amy: I am going to continue to help myself grow by learning new techniques and skills. I am also hoping to continue growing my blog. I want to design more garments. I have been afraid to tackle them for a while but am starting to feel a little more confident. I have a few other amazing projects coming up that aren't finalized yet but I will share them on my social media sites when things are official :).

Thanks for sharing your love of crochet with us, Amy!