It all started one day at church. I was carrying a new granny square bag I had made, so when an older woman I barely recognized came up to me and asked, “Excuse me – did you make that?!” I was proud to say, “I did.”

Longtime crocheter Laurie Wheeler, aka the “Fearless Leader,” is best known for the creation of the CLF (the Crochet Liberation Front) but is also a writer, blogger, designer, editor, and mother of two.

Irish crochet designer Aoibhe Ni (that’s pronounced AY-vah – like Ava, although in person she’ll answer to almost anything if you’re making an effort) has been crocheting since she learned how at age twelve or thirteen.

I love crocheting with different things and embroidery cotton gives a beautiful luxury finish perfect for gifts. This little purse is quick to make from readily available supplies, with a modern color block style.

No more cold hands while cleaning your windshield! Slip your hand into this cozy mitt and keep the harsh wind away. This pattern is a great way to recycle an old damaged wool sweater.

Question: What do you get when you combine an old wool sweater, a washing machine and a little imagination?

Answer: Anything!

In my family we love to give books as gifts. This year every book I give will come with a little something extra – the quick and simple Frost Line Mittens bookmark. These tiny mittens also make adorable ornaments or gift toppers.

by Julia Schwartz Photos: Julia Schwartz Difficulty: Intermediate With my move to a colder climate drawing nearer, I have started a collection of scarves and warmer things in general. I wanted a scarf that was thick and cozy, but had a lacy look to it at the same time. This pattern is what resulted. The […]

By Anastacia Zittel Model: Anastacia Zittel Photos: Jon Zittel I came up with the idea of matching scarves because hubby and I love to wear matching shirts when we take day trips or vacations, but don’t really have anything matching for the colder, winter months. Our styles are different enough that I didn’t want to […]