Crochet Extra – June 2022

It’s back!  All this rainy weather on the East Coast just makes you want to snuggle up under a warm, cosy blanket. So it’s a great time to begin those big winter projects if you haven’t already.

Making your own afghan or blanket has so many benefits – apart from the tremendous enjoyment from the act of crocheting or knitting itself, and the satisfaction from completing it, you can cosy up under it while you are making it!  Of course you have to get it long enough first, so this benefit doesn’t come immediately, but it does make the act of crocheting it even more satisfying.  To me it is one of those never ending circles – crochet for the resulting joy and warmth, and then get warmth and joy while you are crocheting the same thing.  Whichever way you look at, once you’ve completed your afghan or throw you’ll have a very appealing, long-lasting useful item in your home. Or it’s perfect for gifting.  I’ve found many customers have passed their hand-made afghans down through the generations as family heirlooms.

Afghans are a great project for crocheters and knitters of all levels – from beginners through to advanced.  The designs can include any stitch you can think of.   In fact, there are many sampler blankets out there which are great ways to explore new techniques or expand your skills.  Pllay with colour, or use up your stash for something that is truly unique and reflects you, your family or whomever you are going to give it to.

Many modern afghans feature a great deal of texture and colour which makes for very interesting and exquisite pieces.

And if you think you already have too many of these at home – you can always give them away to those in need.  After the several weather events up and down the coast this year there are many coming into winter with very few possessions who would greatly appreciate such hand made items to keep them warm and cosy during the coming winter months.  Many organisations are collecting these to distribute to families in need.

There are many gorgeous yarns out there to make your winter afghans – in store we have Superb 8, Superb 88 and now Superb 4 – all excellent acrylic yarns that make it economical to make blankets.  Or go for something more luxurious with the Merino Soft or Sierra wool/acrylic blends or the Stone Washed or Whirl/whirlette cotton/acrylic blends.

There are so many pattern books, including some wonderful new patterns by Australian designers, making it hard to choose just a selection to feature in our newsletter.  See our next section for some of our favourites, yarns and other tools to help you construct your afghans this winter.

Why not try the Little Diamonds Afghan by Sarah London?