The holiday season is fast approaching and shoppers have shifted into high gear when it comes to preparations. As a crocheter, you've probably already started making gifts.

Let's take a moment, though, to think about what YOU might want. What ends up on a crocheters wish list?

Here are just a few creative and fun ideas.

Yarn Bowls

To keep yarn tidy while working on your next project, choose a handmade yarn bowl. Lots of choices, including wooden and ceramic, abound on Etsy. This one comes from Maid of Clay Ceramics. Any bowl can be personalized with up to 9 letters.

Handmade Crochet Hooks

This one can be a bit tricky because crocheters can be picky about their hooks! However, a little luxury in your toolbox never hurt at all! Check out these shops...

• LETTO Workshop - a variety of wooden ergonomic hooks.
• Becky Sue Creations - interchangeable ceramic hooks.

Buttons

Yes, buttons! Imaginative buttons make a fabulous stocking stuffer or small holiday gift for any crocheter. They come in all shapes, sizes and materials. You'll find lots of interesting choices on Etsy, like the metal button at the bottom from SmartParts.

Stitch Markers

A crocheter can NEVER have enough stitch markers. Just a simple search on Etsy gets you a wide variety of choices including clay, glass, beaded and wood. Here are a few shops to check out:

• Karens Hobby Room
• Wee Ones - removable stitch markers made of polymer clay
• AliceRCrafts

Project Bags

Every crocheter I know has multiple WIP's at the same time. What better way to keep them organized and ready to hit the road than with a project bag. Three Bags Full and Binkwaffle both have a wonderful variety of prints and sizes, with expert detailing and stitching. 

Artwork

For some beautifully drawn, fun fiber artwork, visit Sheep Incognito by Conni Tögel. Her shop includes sheep themed prints along with other items like mugs, calendars and totes.

Yarn-themed Paraphernalia

What about a yarn-themed phone case? TeeAvan has a vast array of phone cases, along with other items such as t-shirts, project bags and, yes, leggings!

One last thought...

Show a little retail love for our fellow handmade entrepreneurs by shopping at small businesses and Etsy shops this holiday season. Support those who make our jobs as crocheters easier and a bit more fun. We need each other!  

Debra Field
MadameStitch

17 (Mostly Free) Crochet Patterns for Fall Wearables

I'm Marie from Underground Crafter and I'm back to share a roundup of seasonal crochet patterns designed by Crochet Guild of America members.

The weather is getting colder in most parts of the country so I thought this would be a perfect time to highlight fall wearables! These patterns include hats, scarves and other neckwarmers, shawls and ponchos, cardigans and tunics, and even a clutch. You’re sure to find a great project in this roundup of 17 mostly free crochet patterns for fall wearables. All images are © the respective designer or publisher and are used with permission.

17 (Mostly Free) Crochet Patterns for Fall Wearables

Roundup by Underground Crafter

Left column, from top to bottom:

• It’s Fall Y’all Shawl, free crochet pattern by Stitches n Scraps: This cozy, triangular shawl uses a self-striping yarn to make the colorwork easy.
• Fatima Poncho, free crochet pattern by Pattern Paradise: This knit-look, textured poncho features a collar.
• Cabled Clutch, premium crochet pattern by Underground Crafter for KnitCrate: This clutch features twisted cables and an asymmetrical picot closure.
• Aran Sampler Scarf, premium crochet pattern by Bonnie Bay Crochet: This sampler features 10 Aran/Celtic crochet stitches with video tutorials.

Second column, from top to bottom:

• Double Down Beanie, free crochet patterns by ELK Studio: This pattern is available in both bottom-up (pictured) and top-down versions.
• Classy Guy Scarf, premium crochet pattern by Randy Cavaliere for Annie’s: This plaid scarf features long fringes.
• Everyday Cardigan, premium pattern by A Crocheted Simplicity: This classic cardigan with an oversized fit is available in 8 sizes from XS to 4X.

Third column, from top to bottom:

• Mourning Dove Scarf, premium crochet pattern by American Crochet: This lacy scarf is a great statement piece.
• Hitch a Ride Scarf, premium crochet pattern by The Crochet Architect: This asymmetrical scarf makes a great one-skein project.
• Autumn Breeze Scarf, free crochet pattern by Oombawka Design: Use buttons to create multiple styling options for this simple scarf pattern.
• Timber V Back Pullover, free crochet pattern by Cre8tion Crochet for Furls: This form fitting sweater is available in 8 sizes and is being released in 3 parts throughout September, 2018.

Right column, from top to bottom:

• Hygge Cocoon Cardigan, free crochet pattern by Moogly: This beginner-friendly oversized cardigan with ribbed sleeves is available in 2 versatile sizes: Misses and Plus.
• Blues and Brass Bandana Cowl, free crochet pattern by Same DiNamics Crochet: This buttoned bandana cowl pattern is available in 3 sizes from X/S to 1X-5X.
• Wandering Tunic, premium crochet pattern by Tammy Hildebrand for Annie’s: This tunic is available in 4 sizes from S/M to 3XL. The pattern is available as a digital download or print-to-order.
• Chrissy Neckwarmer (pictured), free crochet pattern by Jessie At Home: This beaded neckwarmer coordinates with the free crochet pattern for the Chrissy Hat.

I hope you enjoyed this roundup! You can find more project inspiration on my Crochet/Knitting For Fall Pinterest Board.

15 (Mostly Free) Crochet Patterns for Chevron and Ripple Accessories for Women

I'm Marie from Underground Crafter and I'm here to share a roundup of seasonal crochet patterns designed by Crochet Guild of America members. This month's theme is chevrons and ripples. I’m sharing 15 (mostly free) crochet patterns for women’s accessories that would be perfect for the fall. Each includes chevrons or ripples prominently in the design.

This roundup includes shawls and wraps, scarves and cowls, tops, ponchos, bags, and mittens. All images are © the respective designer or publisher and are used with permission.

15 (Mostly Free) Crochet Patterns for Chevrons and Ripple Accessories

Roundup by Underground Crafter

Left column, from top to bottom:

• Warm Waves Mittens, premium crochet pattern by Trifles n Treasures: This pattern is available in 4 sizes from toddler through adult large.
• Granny Chevron Wrap, free crochet pattern by Underground Crafter: This rectangular wrap combines ripples and color blocking for a dramatic effect.
• Excursion Wrap, premium crochet pattern by Linda Dean Crochet: This striped, lacy wrap uses a simple row repeat pattern.
• Granny Ripple Wrap, free crochet pattern by Jessie At Home: This tassled wrap is made with an ombre yarn that does the colorwork for you.
• Pearl Cowl, premium crochet pattern by Gwen Buttke McGannon: This buttoned cowl is worked in one piece.

Center column, from top to bottom:

• Perfect Simple Cowl Poncho, free crochet pattern by Marly Bird: This pattern includes abbreviations, international stitch symbols, and video tutorials.
• Chevron Chic Tote Bag, premium crochet pattern by A Crocheted Simplicity: This stylish tote can be made with crocheted straps or purchased handles.
• Merry Pompom Scarf, premium crochet pattern by Karen McKenna: This striped scarf features pompoms for embellishment.
• Autumn Sky Wrap, premium crochet pattern by Blackstone Designs: This one-piece, fringed wrap makes a bold statement.
• Chevron Tank Top, free crochet pattern by Busting Stitches: This pattern is available in seven sizes from XS through 3X.

Right column, from top to bottom:

• Sands by the Sea Shore, free crochet pattern by ELK Studio: This chevron wrap features asymmetrical stripes.
• Chevron Lace Infinity Scarf, free crochet pattern by Moogly: This pattern is part of the Chevron Lace series and includes both pattern abbreviations and an international stitch symbol chart.
• Mini-Chevron Infinity Scarf, free crochet pattern by Celtic Knot Crochet: This single crochet chevron uses a one-row repeat. The pattern includes both written abbreviations and international stitch symbols.
• Peppermint Wrap, free crochet pattern by American Crochet: This striped rectangular wrap is worked lengthwise.
• Wriggle Wrap, premium crochet pattern by Edie Eckman: This buttoned, striped wrap is one of 30+ projects featured in this issue of Crochetscene magazine.

I hope you enjoyed this roundup! You can find more project inspiration on my Crochet Accessories for Women Pinterest Board.

12 (Mostly Free) Crochet Patterns for a Summer Gathering

I'm Marie from Underground Crafter and I'm here to share a roundup of seasonal crochet patterns designed by Crochet Guild of America members. This month's theme is a summer gathering because there are so many of those to look forward to in the summertime.

This roundup includes patterns for baskets, place settings, cozies, and more. All images are © the respective designer or publisher and are used with permission.

12 (Mostly Free) Crochet Patterns for a Summer Gathering

Roundup by Underground Crafter

Left column, from top to bottom:

• Pineapple Scrubby Dishcloth, free crochet pattern by The Purple Poncho for Red Heart: This textured dishcloth is perfect for cleaning up after the party.
• Patriotic Summertime Placemat, free crochet pattern by Beatrice Ryan Designs: This red, white, and blue placemat would be a great fit at a Fourth of July barbecue.
• Reinventing the Wheel, free crochet pattern by StitchesNScraps: This trivet is perfect for resting your hot plates.
• Bring Your Own Bag, free crochet pattern by Moogly: This bag can carry a six pack of any glass bottled beverage.

Center column, from top to bottom:

• Americana Star Table Runner, free crochet pattern by Cristin Berrafato for Red Heart: This star motif project would add a vibrant touch to any table.
• I Am Sam Glasses Holder, free crochet pattern by Trifles N Treasures: This whimsical little amigurumi character is perfect for keeping your sunglasses safe when you switch to your night glasses.
• Patriotic Pants Gift Basket, premium crochet pattern by Blackstone Designs: Pack a host(ess) gift for your next summer party in this unique gift basket.
• Striped Can Cozy, free crochet pattern by Jessie At Home: This simple project is great for keeping condensation from bottled or canned drinks from staining furniture.

Right column, from top to bottom:

• Pineapple Basket, free crochet pattern by Moogly: This basket has a plastic canvas base to make it sturdy.
• Seascapes Candle Cozy, free crochet pattern by Crochet Memories: This lacy candle cozy would add a romantic touch to an outdoor dinner.
• Picnic Pocket Napkin, free crochet pattern by American Crochet: This napkin has a pocket for cutlery.
• Girls’ Night In Napkin Rings and Wine Glass “Charms,” free crochet pattern by Underground Crafter: These scrap busting projects are perfect for dinner with drinks.

I hope you enjoyed this roundup! You can find more project inspiration on my Crochet for Home Pinterest Board.

12 (Mostly Free) Crochet Beach Patterns

I'm Marie from Underground Crafter and I'm here to share a roundup of seasonal crochet patterns designed by Crochet Guild of America members. This month's theme is the beach because the weather is getting warmer and we need a few weeks to get those crochet projects ready, right? (By the way, if you're thinking about crocheting at the beach, check out my 6 Tips for Taking Your Crochet Outdoors for the Summer, including a roundup of free crochet patterns for shawls made in lighter weight yarns.)

This roundup includes free and premium crochet patterns for girls' and women's swimsuits and cover ups, beach bags, and a sunhat. All images are copyright the respective designer or publisher and are shared with permission.

12 (Mostly Free) Crochet Beach Patterns

Roundup by Underground Crafter

Left column, from top to bottom:

• Beach Day Cover-Up Tunic, free crochet pattern by Pattern Paradise:  This striped tunic is made with a cotton blend yarn.
• Lacey-Mae Bikini, free crochet pattern by Kristin Omdahl: This bikini features clustered scallop edges and the pattern includes a video tutorial.
• Kari’s Bikini, premium crochet pattern by Brandi Isham: This pattern is available in 4 sizes.
• St. Croix Beach Wrap, free crochet pattern by Same DiNamics Crochet for Cre8tion Crochet: This versatile wrap can be worn as a shawl or as a beach cover up.

Center column, from top to bottom:

• Splash ‘n’ Fun Swimsuit and Cover Up, free crochet patterns by Jenny King: These patterns are available in children’s size 2-3 and 4-5.
• Maui Wrap Swimsuit Cover Up, premium crochet pattern by ACCROchet:This lacy, swimsuit cover up with fringe is available in 5 sizes.
• Fair Weather Beach Tote, free crochet pattern by Moogly: This tote bag also has a video tutorial available.

Right column, from top to bottom:

• Beach Day Sunhat, free crochet pattern by A Crocheted Simplicity: This brimmed sunhat is finished with a lace tie.
• Floral Bikini Top, premium crochet pattern by The Purple Poncho: You can customize your size by choosing one of three bikini cup sizes to interchange with 3 floral pattern sizes.
• Coastal Beach Bag, free crochet pattern by Jessie At Home: This flat bottom bag is perfect for carrying along on a warm day.
• Aquarienne Beach Cover Up, premium crochet pattern by Vashti Braha: This project is made with Tunisian crochet.

I hope you've enjoyed this roundup! You can find more inspiration on my Crochet Pattern Roundups Pinterest board.

16 (Mostly Free) Crochet Patterns in Pretty Pastels

I'm Marie from Underground Crafter and I'm back to share a roundup of crochet patterns designed by Crochet Guild of America members. (If you're not a member yet, you can join here.) This month's roundup features 16 (mostly free) patterns in pretty pastels. Of course, you can make any of these patterns in neutrals, jewel tones, or any other color combination you choose.

All photos are copyright the respective designer or publisher and are used with permission. If you are a CGOA member designer and would like to be included in these roundups, please contact me via my blog (linked above).

16 (Mostly Free) Crochet Patterns in Pretty Pastels

Roundup by Underground Crafter

This roundup features so many different types of projects that you're sure to be inspired! Find motifs and blankets, scarves, shawls and wraps, ponchos, women's tops, and other women's accessories.

4 Blankets and Motifs

Clockwise, from top left:

• Doubles and Stripes Afghan Square, free crochet pattern by The Lindsey Life: This square is part of the MooglyCAL2018, which features 24 free crochet patterns for 12” squares.
• Spring Rain Lapghan, free crochet pattern by Moogly: This pattern works up really fast in a jumbo weight yarn.
• Reverie Afghan Square, free crochet pattern by Oombawka Design Crochet: This pattern includes instructions for making a 9” version in light (#3) weight yarn and a 12” version in medium (#4) yarn.
• Modern Heirloom Blanket, premium crochet pattern by Underground Crafter: This strip blanket is available for sale as a pattern here on Ravelry or as a kit with pattern and yarn here on Craftsy.

4 Scarves

Clockwise, from top left:

• Blushing Petals Infinity, free crochet pattern by Ambassador Crochet: This is the medium (#4) weight version of Valentina’sLove Infinity, which is made with super bulky (#6) weight yarn.
• Ombre Aqua Scarf, free crochet pattern by The Stitchin’ Mommy: This chunky scarf works up quickly in a self-striping, super bulky (#6) yarn.
• Eternity Springs Infinity Scarf, free Tunisian crochet pattern by Kim Guzman: This wide infinity scarf can also be worn as a wrap and it includes a video tutorial. 
• Medley Merino Chic Scarf, free crochet pattern by Marly Bird for Red Heart: This pretty striped scarf features a crab stitch border.

6 Shawls, Wraps, Ponchos, and Tops

Clockwise, from top left:

• Valerie Shawl, free crochet pattern by Pattern Paradise: This lacy, openwork shawl is perfect for warmer weather.
• Lacy Detail Tunic, free crochet pattern by Tammy Hildebrand for Red Heart: This lacy top is available in 6 sizes from small through 3x-large.
• Shining Day Wrap, premium crochet pattern by M2H Designs: This lacy wrap can also be worn as a spring scarf.
• Granny Border Poncho, premium crochet pattern by Jessie At Home: Join-as-you-go motifs and granny stitch combine to make a colorful poncho.
• Entwined Chic Cable Sweater, free crochet pattern by A Crocheted Simplicity for Red Heart: This cowl neck, cabled sweater pattern is available in 6 sizes from x-small through x-large.
• Blooming Petals Poncho, free crochet pattern by Cre8tion Crochet for Furls: This lacy poncho is available in 3 sizes: small/medium, large/1x, and 2x/3x. 

2 Other Women’s Accessories

From left to right:

• Granny Square Slippers, free crochet pattern by Naztazia: This pattern, available in 3 sizes, includes a video tutorial.
• Amazing Grace Simple Slouchy, free crochet pattern by Beatrice Ryan Designs: This slouchy hat is part of the Amazing Graces eries of patterns dedicated to breast cancer awareness.

I hope you enjoyed this month's roundup. I'll be back in April with another roundup of patterns by our members.