tutorial

How to crochet the crab stitch…video tutorial

Published on January 27, 2022February 23, 2022 by Nicola Florence @ ayarnyrobinLeave a comment

I am very excited to be releasing my Toasty Earflap Hat pattern tomorrow…so watch this space! It will be available in sizes newborn to large adult, and is a really super pattern for all the family… I have already made myself and Mr R one to keep our ears toasty warm on our freezing dog walks.

I have made a very quick video to demonstrate how to crochet the crab stitch, which is the final round of the hat. I thought it may be helpful. Let me know what you think

How to crochet the Crab stitch

crochet tea cosy free pattern

Five Fabulous Free Crochet Tea Cosy Patterns…

Published on May 1, 2018December 29, 2018 by Nicola Florence @ ayarnyrobin15 Comments

There are now 5 fabulous unique and quirky tea cosies available in the Grandma Collection.

A very special and sassy collection of tea cosy crochet patterns designed by me and dedicated to the inspirational women in my life.

There is the loom flower topped ‘Mary cosy’ with beaded detail.

The ‘Mabel cosy’ is adorned with bright buttons and lace for some feminine chic.

Pretty beaded flowers bedeck the ‘Dot cosy’

The ‘Florence cosy’ will add a large dose of fun to your teapot with a fluffy oversized pompom and woven ribbons.

and the ‘Kathy cosy’ offers understated off the shoulder glamour in traditional granny stitch style.

Each patterns is free and comes with a photo tutorial. They are easy to hook and make great weekend projects; which makes them the perfect gift for tea lovers.

Which one is your favourite?

I hope you will have fun hooking these great tea cosies.

xxxxx

The Grandma Collection ©2018 and the associated cosies are designed by Nicola Florence @ayarnyrobin.
I would love to see your makes and you can share on social media by using the following hashtags
#ayarnyrobin #yarnyrobin @yarnyrobin
These patterns to include the photos are the property of Nicola Florence at ayarnyrobin.wordpress.com. You can’t modify, resell or share these patterns / photo’s as your own. You can sell finished items made from it, but please mention with a link that the item is made using ayarnyrobin.wordpress.com pattern.

crochet tea cosy free pattern

Grandma Kathy Tea Cosy…Free Crochet Pattern and Tutorial.

Published on February 23, 2018 by Nicola Florence @ ayarnyrobin6 Comments

This is the fifth tea cosy in the Grandma collection, and is quite simply delightful. The use of traditional granny stitches means that this pattern can be hooked within an evening. Ideal for that last minute handmade present. This cosy is sweetly uncomplicated and will cloak any tea pot with elegance.

Dedicated to the inspiration that is ‘Nanna Kathy’

The pattern makes a tea cosy that fits a standard 6 cup teapot.

I used less than 50g of Stylecraft special dk yarn in gold and scraps of apricot.

You will also need a darning needle, pin or stitch marker and a pair of scissors.

Stitches used in this pattern refer to English terminology, however a conversion to US terminology is provided in brackets below.

Ch – chain stitch

slst – slip stitch

dc – double crochet (single crochet)

htr– half treble crochet (half double crochet)

tr – treble crochet (double crochet)

dtr – double treble crochet (treble crochet)

You will also need:

a 5mm crochet hook for main body of teapot and a

4mm hook to complete picot edging trim.

Ok, here we go…

Using the gold yarn and 5mm hook, Ch 20

To adjust cosy size, the starting chain should be equivalent to the height from the base of teapot to the top of the body of the teapot or to put it another way, to the start of lid. If adjusting the starting chain it must be a multiple of 3+2.

*********************

Row 1: dc in 2nd ch from hook, dc in each st along, ch3, turn (ch3 counts as tr) (19dc in total).

Row 2: 2tr in same space as ch3, miss 2 sts, 3tr in next st (granny cluster)

repeat * – * til end of row, ch3 (counts as tr) turn.

(x7 granny clusters / x6 spaces).

Row 3: miss 1st granny cluster, 3tr in space before next granny cluster, miss granny cluster, 3tr in space before next granny cluster Repeat * – * to last space, miss 2 sts, 1tr in last st of row, Ch3 (counts as tr), turn.

(20sts = x6 granny clusters / 7 spaces / 1tr on each end of row).

Rows 4: 2tr in same space as ch 3, miss granny cluster, 3tr in space before next granny cluster Repeat * – * to end. Ch3 (counts as tr), turn. ( 21sts = x7 granny clusters / x6 spaces).

Row 5: – 17: Repeat rows 3 and 4, but omit turning ch on row 17.

Row 18: turn, ch1 (does not count as st)dc in same space, dc in each st across, ch3 (counts as tr), turn.

(20sts).

Now to make the spout hole!

Row 19: 2tr in same space as ch 3, miss 2sts, 3tr in next st, ch 10, miss next x5 granny clusters / x4 spaces, 3tr in last st.

(20sts).

Row 20: ch1 (does not count as dc), dc into same space, dc in next 2sts, dc in next 10 chain sts, dc in next 6sts, ch3 (counts as tr), turn. (19dc).

Row 21: Repeat Row 2.

Row 22 – 32: Repeat rows 3 and 4 but omit turning ch on row 32.

If adjusting cosy size make sure to finish this section on a row that is the same as row 3 in the pattern ie/ starts and finishes with 1tr.

*********************

Row 33: ch1 (does not count as dc), dc in same space, dc in each st along and fasten off and weave in ends

(20dc).

nb/ top and bottom – x1 granny cluster underneath spout

Noting top and bottom correctly, attach gold yarn to top right side.

Now to complete the petals.

Row 34: ch1 (does not count as dc), dc in same space, dc in each st across – ( the term sts here is used loosely as they are actually the side posts of the trebles and double crochet sts of the previous rounds. It may look a bit ambiguous, but we are aiming to get 36dc across this top edge), turn.

crochet tea cosy free pattern and tutorial — try to space these sts as evenly as you can… its just a case of getting them in!

Row 35: ch1, miss 2 sts, in next st place dc, htr, tr, 2dtr, in next st place 2dtr, tr, htr, dc

Repeat * – * to end of row

slst to beginning ch1 to join cosy in a circle.

Side Seam: Place cosy on teapot and mark with a pin across top of handle, slst from top of cosy down to this point (approx. 1.5cms).

Return cosy to the teapot and repeat process, this time marking below the handle. Remove cosy leaving marker in place, continue to slst along one edge (not both) until you reach marker for the bottom of the handle. Now slst both edges together to bottom of cosy, fasten off and weave in all loose ends.

Picot trim: Finally, attach apricot yarn in any beginning dc of petal (ie. dc to the right hand side of petal).

With a 4mm hook, ch1 (counts as dc), dc in next 3sts, dc in next st, ch3, slst into 1st ch (picot made),

dc into same space as previous dc, dc in next 4sts…1st petal edged.

For next petal and for all petals around, dc in next 4sts, dc in next st, ch3, slst into 1st ch, dc in same space as previous dc, dc in next 4sts.

NB/ do not crochet in this space by mistake

crochet tea cosy free pattern and tutorial — Do not crochet in this space by mistake else your picot will not be central!

To finish slst to beginning ch of trim, fasten off and weave in ends.

Now I think it’s time for a brew…don’t you?

xxxxx

I REALLY HOPE YOU HAVE ENJOYED MAKING THIS PATTERN AS MUCH AS I HAVE ENJOYED CREATING IT FOR YOU. IF YOU ARE NOT SURE ABOUT SOMETHING OR NOTICE ANY ERRORS PLEASE SHOUT UP. EQUALLY PLEASE FEEL FREE TO SHARE YOUR Grandma Kathy Tea cosy CREATIONS IN THE COMMENTS BELOW or with the #THEGRANDMACOLLECTION #AYARNYROBIN ON SOCIAL MEDIA…I WOULD LOVE TO SEE THEM!

THE Grandma Kathy Tea Cosy IS part of the Grandma Collection ©2018 designed by Nicola Florence @ayarnyrobin

button heart

Valentines hearts…free pattern.

Published on February 9, 2018 by Nicola Florence @ ayarnyrobin5 Comments

crochet heart free pattern — a yarny little heart

With Valentines day just around the corner I thought I would post the pattern for ‘a yarny little heart’ that I published a little while back.

This is a super quick make and would make a cute Valentine bunting or embellishment. The pattern is free and just here and there is a photo tutorial too.

Happy Hooking!

xxxxx

crochet tea cosy free pattern and tutorial

The Grandma Florence Tea Cosy

Published on January 16, 2018January 16, 2018 by Nicola Florence @ ayarnyrobin8 Comments

In my haste to release the fourth gorgeous tea cosy of the Grandma Collection…The Grandma Florence tea cosy; I realised that I hadn’t posted the formal introduction. So here it is…

Dedicated to my lovely Momma…Florence.

My Mom: the woman who raised me and who has quietly influenced me throughout my life.

I followed in her duty shoes and trained as a nurse, inspired by memories of her putting on her nurses hat and cape…of course that style of uniform has long since gone…but I wanted to help people just like her.

My Mom has been such a creative influence in my life too, for as long as I can remember she has made stuff. Clothes, flower arrangements, knitting, patchwork quilts…no wonder I have the desire to create and craft.

My Momma has also taught me how to be a Momma to my boys…and if I do half as good as her then I’ll do alright by them! But most of all she is always there and she is kind and that is just what I want to be.

So this is the Grandma Florence tea cosy, a pretty cosy woven with bright ribbons to represent the encouragement, love and inspiration that my Momma has woven throughout my life… Thanks Mom!

xxxxx

So that is the Grandma Florence tea cosy in all of her glory, here is the pattern linky thing which is free and has a photo tutorial also.

xxxxx

Crchet tea cosy free pattern and tutorial

Grandma Florence Tea Cosy…Free Pattern and Tutorial.

Published on January 9, 2018May 1, 2018 by Nicola Florence @ ayarnyrobin12 Comments

This is the fourth tea cosy in the Grandma collection, and is sure to charm. The crochet mesh design means this pattern makes for a very quick hook up. Ideal for beginners using just a half treble crochet stitch, this cosy is abidingly delightful and will trim any tea pot with joy.

Dedicated to the inspiration that is ‘Nanna Florence’ otherwise known as my Mom!

The pattern makes a tea cosy that fits a standard 6 cup teapot.

I used less than 50g of Stylecraft special dk yarn in cream. Please note that I have used a different colour yarn in the beginning of the photo tutorial below.

You will also need a darning needle, a selection of 5mm wide ribbon, a 50cm length of fluff, a button, a pair of scissors and x4 stitch markers (or small safety pins or scraps of different colour yarn). The use of a hot glue gun is optional, ribbons can either be glued into position or stitched.

Stitches used in this pattern refer to English terminology, however a conversion to US terminology is provided in brackets.

Ch – chain stitch

slst – slip stitch

dc – double crochet (single crochet)

htr– half treble crochet (half double crochet)

You will also need:

a 4mm crochet hook

Ok, here we go…

Using the cream yarn Ch 4

Join with a slst to form a ring.

Row 1: Ch1 (does not count as a st), 6hdc into ring,

finish with a slst in 1st hdc. (6hdc).

Row 2: Ch1, (does not count as a st) 2hdc in same space, 2hdc in each st around, finish with a slst in 1st hdc. (12hdc).

Row 3: Ch1 (does not count as a st), 2hdc in same space, 1hdc in next st, 2hdc in next st, 1hdc in next st . Repeat * – * to end, finish with a slst in 1st hdc. (18hdc).

Rows 4: Ch 1 (does not count as a st), 2hdc in same space, 1hdc in next 2 sts, 2hdc in next st, 1hdc in next 2 sts. Repeat - to end, finish with a slst in 1st hdc. (24hdc).

Row 5: Ch1 (does not count as st), 2hdc in same space, 1hdc in next 3 sts, 2hdc in next st, 1hdc in next 3 sts. Repeat - to end, finish with a slst in 1st hdc. (30hdc).

Row 6: Ch 1 (does not count as a st), 2hdc in same space, 1hdc in next 4 sts, 2hdcin next st, 1hdc in next 4 sts. Repeat - to end, finish with a slst in 1st hdc. (36hdc).

Row 7: ch1 ( does not count as a st), 1hdc in same space and in each st around, finish with a slst in 1st hdc. (36hdc).

Row 8: ch1 (does not count as a st), 2hdc in same space andin each st around, finish with a slst in 1st hdc. (72hdc).

Row 9 and 10: Repeat row 7, finish with a slst in 1st hdc. (72hdc).

You should have something that is starting to look a bit like a flying saucer! This is a good point to check your measurements with your intended teapot. Place your hooked disc on top of your teapot. You want the edges of the circle to be approx. 1cm from the handle of the teapot.

To mark out handle and spout holes, simply take x4 st markers (or cut short pieces of yarn in a different colour as I did) and place/ tie first marker in the st behind where you joined last row.

Counting backwards (or to the right)miss x3 sts and place/tie second marker in next st. This marks out your handle.

From this second marker count backwards (or to the right) 30sts and place 3rd marker in the next st (31st st). Return to the first marker and count forwards 30 sts (or to the left) and place 4th marker in the next st.

You have now marked out the handle and spout positions for your cosy. Marker #1 and #2 indicate the handle space and markers #3 and #4 indicate the spout space.

The next stage of the cosy is to construct the sides. So, for the purposes of the pattern these will be referred to as side A (between marker #1 and #4) and side B between marker #2 and #3).

Side A row 1: In Cream yarn Ch 4 (counts as 1htr and 2ch), miss 2sts htr in next st, ch2, miss 2sts

repeat * -* until you reach marker/ tie #4.

NB/ last htr is completed in st marked by marker / tie #4

(x11htr, x10 ch2spaces)

Side A row 2: ch4 (counts as htr and 2 ch) turn work.

Miss 2 sts, htr in next st, ch2, miss 2 sts

repeat * – * to end of row, placing last htr in top of ch2.

(x11htr, x10 ch2 spaces).

Side A row 3: We are going to increase the mesh at each end of the row.

Ch 4 ( counts as htr and 2ch, turn work, htr into same st ( increase made), ch2, miss 2sts, htr in next st, ch2, miss 2 sts

repeat from * – * til end of row placing htr in ch2 of previous row, ch2, htr in same space (increase made).

(x13htr, x12 ch2 spaces).

Side A row 4: ch 4 (counts as htr and 2ch), turn work, miss 2 sts, htr in next st, ch2, miss 2sts

repeat * – * til end of row. (x13htr, x12 ch2 spaces).

Side A row 5 – 15: repeat side A row 4. Fasten off. Side A completed.

Side B: Join cream yarn in st to the left of st marker #2

repeat Side A instructions between markers 2 and 3. Fasten off and sew in all loose ends.

Remove stitch markers.

Place on your teapot to check the fit.

Now for the fun part! Weave the ribbons in and out of the mesh.

ayarnyrobin free crochet tea cosy pattern — weave the ribbons in and out of the mesh…

alternate each row ie, start weaving from under the post on one row and over the post on the next row. NB/ on row 3 you will not need to alternate in order to keep the pattern of covered and exposed posts.

crochet tea cosy pattern available at ayarnyrobin — This gives me another idea!!!

Repeat weaving ribbons for both Side A and Side B. Once completed you need to secure the ribbons. I used a hot glue gun to do this but you could just as easily machine sew.

Turn work so that the wrong side is facing upwards and begin by securing the ribbons that end by going behind the post. In the picture below this would be the green ribbon, followed by the blue then the red ribbon. Secure both sides being careful not to pull the ends of the ribbon to tight, you need to allow a little give in the ribbon.

Continue to secure the ribbons in this way. You should now only have ribbons that go over the post left to secure. To do this split the side of the post stitch with your nail and thread through the ribbon. In the photo below the top picture shows the blue ribbon already threaded and the bottom picture shows the red ribbon yet to be threaded with the place for it to be threaded through indicated by the safety pin.

NB/ this can be a bit tricky and may require a wee bit of patience!

Once threaded, secure as before.

Edging: join cream yarn to the bottom corner (any side).

Ch2 (does not count as a st), htr into same space (to the right side of ribbon), ch1.

NB/The next st is to be placed in between ribbon).

ch1,htr in between ribbon

repeat - until last ribbon at the top. Don’t worry too much about the ribbon seeming loose at the sides, just keep placing those htr’s between the ribbons! The last htr being placed to the left side of the last ribbon.

Dc in the sts across the lid of the cosy.

Now place htr to right of top ribbon on opposite side,ch1, htr in between ribbon.

Repeat * – * to end. Fasten off and weave in ends.

Repeat the whole of the edging process on the other side of the cosy, but do not fasten off as this is where the tab is created..

Tab: To complete the tab ch2 (does not count as st) turn work,

Tab Row 1: htr in ch sp, htr in next st repeat * – * x3 more times (8htr in total)

Tab Row 2: ch2 (does not count as a st) turn work, htr in each st along (8htr)

Tab Row 3: repeat Tab Row 2.

Tab Row 4: Turn work, slst in next 2 sts, ch8, miss 4 sts, slst in next 2sts, fasten off and weave in ends.

Attach button centrally on opposite side to tab.

Now to sew handle opening. To do this sew the two edges on opposite side of cosy to tab and button. Sew from bottom up to the 4th or 5th ribbon or until the bottom of your handle.

Finally to neaten the edges around the spout, join cream yarn to st just above the tab.

Ch2, htr in each st around until st just above button, fasten off and weave in ends.

Repeat the process to neaten the edges around the handle, this time joining the cream yarn to any st in the opening for the handle, ch2, htr in each st around, joining with a slst in top of ch2 to finish. Fasten off.

Finally to add the pompom.

Now you could just make a pompom, but I just tied the first part of a bow over and over until I had a fluffy ball.

I threaded some yarn through it and secured it to the top of the tea cosy where it looked rather quite proud.

Et voila! A beautiful tea cosy to warm your brew!

xxxxx

I REALLY HOPE YOU HAVE ENJOYED MAKING THIS PATTERN AS MUCH AS I HAVE ENJOYED CREATING IT FOR YOU. IF YOU ARE NOT SURE ABOUT SOMETHING OR NOTICE ANY ERRORS PLEASE SHOUT UP. EQUALLY PLEASE FEEL FREE TO SHARE YOUR Grandma Florence Tea cosy CREATIONS IN THE COMMENTS BELOW or on social media using the hashtags #ayarnyrobin or @yarnyrobin…I WOULD LOVE TO SEE THEM!

Grandma Florence Tea Cosy is part of the Grandma Collection ©2018 designed by Nicola Florence @ayarnyrobin

crochet tea cosy free pattern

Grandma Dot Tea Cosy…Free Pattern.

Published on November 8, 2017May 1, 2018 by Nicola Florence @ ayarnyrobin9 Comments

This is the third tea cosy in the Grandma collection, designed with simplicity and sweetness. The top down design means this pattern makes for a quick hook up. Ideal for beginners and sure to guarantee a perfectly sweet cosy for your teapot. Dedicated to the inspiration that was ‘Nanna Dot’

The pattern makes a tea cosy that fits a standard 4 cup teapot.

I used less than 50g of Stylecraft special dk yarn in colourways cream and raspberry which I used as my base colours. Please note that I have used a different colour yarn in the photo tutorial below.

I also used scraps of stylecraft special dk yarn in: lipstick, saffron, meadow, fondant, gold, shrimp, lime, khaki and grape.

You will also need a darning needle, a selection of beads with a centre hole wide enough for the dk yarn to be threaded through, a pair of scissors and x4 stitch markers (or small safety pins or scraps of different colour yarn). The use of a hot glue gun is optional, flowers can either be glued into position or stitched.

Stitches used in this pattern refer to English terminology, however a conversion to US terminology is provided in brackets.

Ch – chain stitch

slst – slip stitch

hdc– half double crochet (half single crochet)

You will also need:

a 4mm crochet hook

Ok, here we go…

Using the raspberry yarn Ch 4

Join with a slst to form a ring.

Row 1: Ch1 (does not count as a st), 6hdc into ring,

finish with a slst in 1st hdc. (6hdc).

Row 2: Ch1, (does not count as a st) 2hdc in same space, 2hdc in each st around, finish with a slst in 1st hdc. (12hdc).

Row 3: Ch1 (does not count as a st), 2hdc in same space, 1hdc in next st, 2hdc in next st, 1hdc in next st . Repeat * – * to end, finish with a slst in 1st hdc. (18hdc).

Rows 4: Ch 1 (does not count as a st), 2hdc in same space, 1hdc in next 2 sts, 2hdc in next st, 1hdc in next 2 sts. Repeat - to end, finish with a slst in 1st hdc. (24hdc).

Row 5: Ch1 (does not count as st), 2hdc in same space, 1hdc in next 3 sts, 2hdc in next st, 1hdc in next 3 sts. Repeat - to end, finish with a slst in 1st hdc. (30hdc).

Row 6: Ch 1 (does not count as a st), 2hdc in same space, 1hdc in next 4 sts, 2hdcin next st, 1hdc in next 4 sts. Repeat - to end, finish with a slst in 1st hdc. (36hdc).

Row 7: ch1 ( does not count as a st), 1hdc in same space and in each st around, finish with a slst in 1st hdc. (36hdc).

Row 8: ch1 (does not count as a st), 2hdc in same space andin each st around, finish with a slst in 1st hdc. (72hdc).

Row 9 and 10: Repeat row 7, finish with a slst in 1st hdc. (72hdc).

You should have something that is starting to look a bit like a flying saucer! This is a good point to check your measurements with your intended teapot. Place your hooked disc on top of your teapot. You want the edges of the circle to be approx. 1cm from the handle of the teapot.

To mark out handle and spout holes, simply take x4 st markers (or cut short pieces of yarn in a different colour as I did) and place/ tie first marker in the st behind where you joined last row.

Counting backwards (or to the right)miss x3 sts and place/tie second marker in next st. This marks out your handle.

From this second marker count backwards (or to the right) 30sts and place 3rd marker in the next st (31st st). Return to the first marker and count forwards 30 sts (or to the left) and place 4th marker in the next st.

You have now marked out the handle and spout positions for your cosy. Marker 1 and 2 indicate the handle space and markers 3 and 4 indicate the spout space.

The next stage of the cosy is to construct the sides. So, for the purposes of the pattern these will be referred to as side A (between marker 1 and 4) and side B between marker 2 and 3).

Side A row 1: In Cream yarn Ch 1(does not count as a st)* 1hdc in same st and in each st along to marker/tie 4, ch1, turn*

Side A row 2: repeat Side A row 1 returning to marker/tie 1.

Repeat (side A row 1 and side A row 2), to fit the height of your teapot. I completed 15 rows in total. Fasten off.

To complete side B, join cream yarn in stitch to the left of stitch marker number 2

repeat Side A instructions between markers 2 and 3. Fasten off and sew in all loose ends.

Remove stitch markers.

Place on your teapot to check the fit.

Next, using a darning needle sew sides A and B together from the bottom of the cosy to below the spout (approx. 2 rows) and on the handle side from the bottom of the cosy to below the handle.

Now for the creative part… making ‘dotty little crochet flowers’. I made x4 flowers in each of the following colours:

lipstick, fondant, grape, gold, raspberry, saffron and shrimp

A dotty little crochet flower — A dotty little flower

To make a ‘dotty little flower’ ch4, slst to 1st chain to make a ring. Ch 2 (counts as a hdc) x9 hdc into ring, slst into top of starting ch and fasten off to finish.

To create flower centres you can cross stitch the centre, add beads and create a french knot centre.

I used a cheat method to create the french knot centre by pulling a piece of yarn from the back of the flower to the front and then tying a knot x10 in the yarn in exactly the same place to make a large knot.

To finish thread the other tail of the yarn from the front to the back, so both tails are now at the back of the flower, tie to secure and trim tails short.

Secure your dotty little flowers to both sides of the cosy. You can sew them into place or secure them with hot glue! Then using green yarns sew simple stems and leaves using a back stitch to finish. I used stylecraft special DK yarn in meadow, khaki and lime.

And there you have it…a sweet dotty flower tea cosy to keep your brew warm.

xxxxx

I REALLY HOPE YOU HAVE ENJOYED MAKING THIS PATTERN AS MUCH AS I HAVE ENJOYED CREATING IT FOR YOU. IF YOU ARE NOT SURE ABOUT SOMETHING OR NOTICE ANY ERRORS PLEASE SHOUT UP. EQUALLY PLEASE FEEL FREE TO SHARE YOUR DOTTY FLOWER CREATIONS IN THE COMMENTS BELOW oron social media using the hashtags #ayarnyrobin or @yarnyrobin…I WOULD LOVE TO SEE THEM!

Grandma Dot Tea Cosy part of the Grandma Collection ©2017 designed by Nicola Florence @ayarnyrobin

The Grandma Dot Tea Cosy, crochet tea cosy, The Grandma Collection by ayarnyrobin

The Grandma Dot Tea Cosy

Published on November 8, 2017November 8, 2017 by Nicola Florence @ ayarnyrobin5 Comments

Introducing the ‘Grandma Dot’ tea cosy…the third in the Grandma Collection

Dedicated to my husband’s Nanna Dot who was a truly formidable woman.

Nanna Dot was a tiny woman in stature but a mighty woman non the less.

Strong, brave and wise with the most beautiful smile. No matter what was going on or how much hell was breaking loose round about; Nanna Dot would make a cuppa tea or something a wee bit stronger and in a way that I still do not really understand, she would put things into perspective with a gentle reassurance.

I wish I had known Nanna Dot for longer. I especially loved her love of family and Christmas. Family were so important to her. When my first son was born, we counted from Nanna Dot and Grandad Ernie that our son was number 50….a BIG family indeed!

So this cosy is covered in ‘dotty little flowers’

A meadow of ‘dotty little flowers’ to represent the growth and legacy of her family, which at last count is upwards of 60!

So that is the Grandma Dot tea cosy in all of its glory, here is the pattern linky thing which is free and has a photo tutorial also.

xxxxx

crochet barefoot sandals - Corfu designed by ayarnyrobin.wordpress.com, summer feet

Corfu Barefoot Sandals Free Pattern.

Published on September 24, 2017 by Nicola Florence @ ayarnyrobin5 Comments

As promised Ginny, here is my pattern for these cute Corfu barefoot sandals.

You will need approx. 7m of yarn for each sandal, I used Paintbox dk cotton in cream and a 4mm hook.

You will also need x5 beads for each sandal, I used beads from a cheap bracelet. Just make sure the threading hole in the bead is large enough for your yarn.

Other useful items you will need are a pair of scissors and a darning needle to weave in the ends.

This pattern uses English terminology and the following abbreviations:

Ch – chain stitch

st- stitch

slst – slip stitch

dc – double crochet

htr- half treble

tr – treble crochet

dtr – double treble crochet

By adjusting the number of chains in the ties, you can make them longer or shorter to suit. Additionally adjusting the number of chains in the toe loop for comfort may be required.

To skip photo tutorial, head to the end of the post for written pattern without photo’s.

So, assuming you have gathered your supplies cut at least 7m of yarn from the ball, knot one end and thread X5 beads on. The X2 beads nearest the knot will be located at the end of the ties of the sandal, the following X2 beads will be located, just before the tie chain starts, and the last bead you thread will be the bead nearest the toes (I used a different bead which was larger and sparkly for this)…the darker bead in the photo.

crochet barefoot sandal free pattern — move the beads to the end of the yarn for later…

Now, starting at the other end of the yarn to the beads, leave a long length, approx. 50cms. You will use this at the end to make the toe loop. Make a loop

Chain 6 and bring first bead down

Join with a slip stitch into 1st chain – catching / incorporating the bead in the centre

Ch4 (counts as a dtr) As you make the next stitches around the bead be careful not to weave in the long tail that you are saving for your toe loop.

2dtr into loop (this can be a bit fiddly getting the hook in next to the bead)

Continue working in the loop around the bead as follows

2tr, 2htr, 2dc, 2htr, 2tr, 2dtr

and join with slst in top of beginning ch4 (feather made).

Now ch6,

in 2nd ch from hook dc, 2tr,dc (1st cluster)

miss a st and repeat — (2nd cluster), slst into top of feather.

Turn work so feather is on the your right hand side

The next set of stitches will be made in the base of the 1st cluster st, (see photo). But first, bring the second bead down and rest it on top of cluster, now slst in base of cluster st to secure.

Dc,2tr,dc in same space.

Bring down third bead and repeat — in second cluster.

To finish cluster slst in 1st ch at the start of 1st cluster (see photo above).

*Ch55, bring down 4th bead, slst into 4th ch from hook and pull tight to secure bead.

Dc in each ch back to cluster, slst into top of cluster* (tie made) repeat — to make second tie. Fasten off and weave in ends.

Returning to length of yarn left at start, weave end to bottom of feather

insert hook into top st of central dtr and pull up a loop

Ch12 and slst into top of central dtr which you started ch from. Tie off and weave in ends.

Now to make another!

I really hope you have enjoyed making these barefoot sandals, I would love to see some pictures if you have.

xxxxx

Written pattern without photo’s.

Corfu Barefoot sandal by ayarnyrobin.wordpress.com

cut at least 7m of yarn from the ball, knot one end and thread X5 beads on. The X2 beads nearest the knot will be located at the end of the ties of the sandal, the following X2 beads will be located, just before the tie chain starts, and the last bead you thread will be the bead nearest the toes

Now, starting at the other end of the yarn to the beads, leave a long length, approx. 50cms. You will use this at the end to make the toe loop.

Make a loop, Ch6 and bring first bead down, join with a slip stitch into 1st chain – catching / incorporating the bead in the centre.

Ch4 (counts as a dtr) As you make the next stitches around the bead be careful not to weave in the long tail that you are saving for your toe loop.
2dtr into loop (this can be a bit fiddly getting the hook in next to the bead).

Continue working in the loop around the bead as follows
2tr, 2htr, 2dc, 2htr, 2tr, 2dtr
and join with slst in top of beginning ch4 (feather made).

Ch6, in 2ch from hook dc, 2tr,dc (1st cluster)
miss a st and repeat — (2nd cluster), slst into top of feather.

Turn work so feather is on the your right hand side.

The next set of stitches will be made in the base of the 1st cluster st. But first, bring the second bead down and rest it on top of cluster, now slst in base of cluster st to secure. Dc,2tr,dc in same space.

Bring down third bead and repeat — in second cluster.

To finish cluster slst in 1st ch at the start of 1st cluster.
*Ch55, bring down 4th bead, slst into 4th ch from hook and pull tight to secure bead.

Dc in each ch back to cluster, slst into top of cluster* (tie made), repeat — to make second tie. Fasten off and weave in ends.

Returning to length of yarn left at start, weave end to bottom of feather, insert hook into top st of central dtr and pull up a loop, Ch12 and slst into top of central dtr which you started ch from. Tie off and weave in ends.

Sandal made, now repeat to make another!

Baby Shower Diaper Cake…

Published on April 8, 2017 by Nicola Florence @ ayarnyrobin2 Comments

Take a look at this little creation I just made…

Sweet Dreams Diaper Cake

Sweet Dreams Diaper Cake

add your decorations.

add your decorations.

aqua and grey elegance

aqua and grey elegance

I would have adored one of these when I was expecting! So, I got to work constructing my diaper cake as soon as I received my friends baby shower invitation.

There are lots of tutorials on the web about how to make your own diaper cake, but I did take photo’s of each step and have included them below.

I found the hardest part of creating a diaper cake was deciding on the colours and of course a theme!

I used an old cake board, a kitchen roll tube, card, scissors, sticky tape, hot glue gun, elastic bands, string, ribbons, a teddy, ‘sweet dreams’ bunting and some artificial daisies and about 64 size 2 diapers (nappies).

So this is how I made mine…

Step 1:

roll up your diapers…

I used the kids loom bands to secure, but elastic bands would work too.

Step 2:

Using the scissors snip approx. 1cm around one end of the kitchen roll.

Step 3:

Secure the tube to the centre of the cake board with sticky tape.

Step 4:

place rolled up diapers around the tube.

Begin placing rolled up diapers around the base of the tube, in x3 rounds. Secure each round with an elastic band or tie with string. If tying with string keep loose ends short and tuck any remaining ends in between the diapers as you go to keep your cake looking neat.

Step 5:

Hot Glue a ruffled ribbon around the base onto the cake board.

Step 6:

Repeat the process for the second tier, this time for 2 rounds only.

Now, at this point, the kitchen tube, disappeared as you can see in the photo above, as the height of the tube was equal to the height of the second tier.

You don’t really need to worry if your cake topper is rigid or small. But, as my topper was a cute little bear, that was quite floppy and soft, I added an extension to my tube in the form of a bit of plastic pipe, Mr R had spare.

If you need to extend your tube, card would suffice at this point, but as I did not have any I went with the plastic pipe.

To secure Mr Bear, I tied his leg with a bit of string and threaded the string through the pipe, securing the string at the bottom of the pipe with sticky tape. I then placed the pipe inside the kitchen tube, before proceeding with step 7.

You may find you can go straight to tier 3 and decorate with your topper once tier three is insitu, it will just depend upon what you have chosen for your decoration.

Step 7:

The final Tier, just one round of diapers needed here.

Step 8:

Using the hot glue gun secure your ribbon in place.

Just like so.

Step 9:

add your decorations.

Sweet Dreams Diaper Cake

And there you have it.

I just love this sweet dreams theme in aqua and grey. The little yellow centres in the daisies and Mr. Bears matching bow tie add a little extra zing!

It looks so elegant and I have had so many gushing comments about it and requests to make more I may just have to!

If this inspires you to make a diaper cake I would love to see your pictures, your colours and your themes and just how your imagination runs away with this quick and simple project.

xxxxx

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