There is a special kind of magic that happens when you take a simple ball of thread and transform it into something tangible and beautiful. We’ve all been there—staring at a delicate handmade accessory in a shop window and thinking, “I wish I could make that.” Well, today is the day we turn that wish into reality.

I am thrilled to share my tutorial for the ‘Flowering Garden’ coin purse—a dainty, romantic piece that fits perfectly in your palm. Whether you’re looking to challenge your skills or simply carve out a little time for creative meditation, this project is for you. Let’s grab our hooks and bring this little garden to life together.

Before picking up your crochet hook, we must ensure we have everything needed.

Materials

• Crochet thread: Anchor Freccia size 6 for the body of the coin purse, in cream or white.
• Yarn: DMC Perlé size 8 or 5 for the flowers and leaves in pink, light pink, light lilac, yellow, light yellow, light blue, and aqua green.
• Crochet hook: 2.00 mm.
• Other: 1 coin purse frame/clasp.

Instructions

Imagine the body of the coin purse as a painter’s blank canvas. We need to create two identical pieces that, once joined, will form the structure. Start by working in the round.

Are you confident with chains? Great. The basic crochet stitches used for this project are:

• Chain (ch)
• Single crochet (sc)
• Double crochet (dc)

Follow the pattern calmly, working for 12 rounds in a fancy stitch. This is the phase where you will see the circle grow before your eyes. Don’t rush: every stitch you make is a step toward the final result.

After the first 12 rounds, we must add depth. Work 3 rounds of single crochet along the edge. This is what will give the coin purse its side “shape.” You will see, once you have finished these two pieces, it will already feel like you can see the finished coin purse in your hands!

Summary:

• Body construction: Make 2 identical pieces.
• Work in the round following the pattern for 12 rounds of fancy stitch.
• Continue by working 3 rounds of single crochet for the border (the side part).

Decorations

Working and applying decorative elements: Now comes the fun part, where we get creative. We need to create the rolled roses, small flowers, and leaves that will decorate our purse.

When working the roses, remember to sew the center and the edge with the same color thread: this trick makes the work clean and harmonious.

For the smaller flowers, I suggest fixing the center with a French knot. It adds that precious detail that makes the difference between a common job and a professional one.

And the leaves? They are the stars that frame the bouquet. Define the central vein by sewing carefully. A piece of advice: when you finish working each small piece, leave the thread a little longer. You will need it later to sew it onto the body of the coin purse without having to make too many hidden knots.

How to Assemble the Coin Purse

We are almost there! Place the two body pieces right sides together. Now we will join them by working a single crochet edge along the ★ sign. Be careful to catch the stitches of both sides simultaneously.

This is where precision pays off: make sure they are well aligned. Finally, the critical moment arrives: the clasp. Sew it on with patience, following the marks. Don’t force the thread; take the time necessary to make it adhere perfectly to the crochet fabric. This is the moment your project goes from being a simple weave to a real accessory ready for use.

Joining the bottom:

• Place the two bodies of the coin purse right sides together (back side facing you).
• Join the two pieces by working a border of single crochet (taking the stitches of both sides simultaneously) in correspondence with the ★ sign.
• Applying the clasp: Sew the clasp on according to the mark.

Technical Notes

• Joining the bottom (★): The 2nd round is worked into the top of the stitch of the 1st round. The 3rd round is worked by inserting the hook behind the 2nd round and taking the top of the stitch of the 1st round.
• Decorations (flowers):
  • Roses: Sew the center and the edge with thread of the same color.
  • Small flowers: Secure the center with a French knot using DMC mouliné thread.
  • Leaves: Sew the central part with thread of the same color.
• When finishing the pieces, leave the thread a bit longer to facilitate sewing and fixing to the main body.

Care and Protection

To ensure your coin purse remains as beautiful as the first day, here are some tips:

• Protection of decorations: Since the decorative elements are sewn externally, handle them with care when placing the purse in your bag, avoiding letting them get stuck on other metal objects or keys.
• Delicate cleaning: Being made of cotton, if the purse gets dirty, I recommend washing it exclusively by hand in cold water with a neutral soap, without scrubbing hard to avoid ruining the floral decorations.
• Drying: Do not wring; gently pat with a white towel to absorb excess water and let it dry flat, away from direct heat sources or intense sunlight that could fade the yarn colors.
• Storage: When not in use, place it in a cloth bag or a dry place, avoiding crushing it to keep the shape of the flowers and the main body intact.

And there you have it—your very own ‘Flowering Garden’ coin purse! I hope this project brought as much joy to your hands as it will bring to your everyday routine.

Remember, every stitch you made was a unique expression of your creativity, and that is what makes handmade items so truly special. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different color combinations or add your own personal flair. I would absolutely love to see your finished work, so please share your photos and let me know how your little garden grew. Happy crocheting!

There is nothing better than wearing something handmade during the hot summer days. White cotton espadrilles, thanks to their breathability and lightweight design, are an essential accessory to complete any summer outfit. In this article, we will guide you through making a pair of crochet espadrilles, a fun project that combines creativity and comfort, perfect for adding a personal touch to your wardrobe.

Espadrilles originate from the peasant tradition of the Pyrenees, between Spain and France. Traditionally, they were worn by agricultural workers and soldiers due to their practicality, low cost of materials, and ability to keep the foot cool and breathable while working under the sun.

They are footwear designed primarily for the summer season and are often worn on vacation; thanks to their breathable and lightweight nature, they are very comfortable. They represent a fundamental element of the summer wardrobe, perfect for casual and informal outfits, such as beach wear or city strolls during the warmer months. They are ideal for those looking for comfortable and “easy-chic” footwear for hot days. The crochet version, in particular, is a creative way to customize your summer look with a handcrafted touch.

How to wear them Today, espadrilles can be worn in different ways, depending on the style:

• Basic models: Worn as simple slip-ons, ideal for a quick walk or a day at the beach.
• Laced models: As described in the file “cotton espadrilles.pdf,” these often include laces that allow you to secure the shoe better to the ankle, also making them a more aesthetically refined accessory.
• Care: Since the sole is made of rope, it is important to avoid getting them excessively wet, as moisture can damage the jute structure.

Materials

• Crochet hook: 5 mm
• Yarn: 100% cotton (50g/85m): two balls of your preferred color
• Accessories: A pair of Prym espadrille soles
• Tension/Gauge: Approx. 15 stitches and 16 rows per 10×10 cm worked in single crochet (sc).

Sizes The pattern is written for 3 sizes:

• Size S: UK 3-4 (EUR 36-37)
• Size M: UK 5-6 (EUR 38-39)
• Size L: UK 7-8 (EUR 40-41)

Abbreviations

• single crochet (sc): mb (maglia bassa)

The espadrilles are made in 2 parts:

1. A front part to cover the toes.
2. A back part to cover the heel. The lacing is added to the top of the heel section and the fringes are added to the front. Each piece is sewn to the sole using a sturdy, pointed yarn needle.

The pattern below refers to the smallest size, with alternative instructions for larger sizes indicated in parentheses, e.g., S (M: L).

Instructions

FRONT PART (MAKE 2) Ch 8 (10: 12). Row 1: 1 sc in the second chain from the hook, 1 sc in every ch to the end, turn. [7 (9: 11) stitches] Row 2 (Right side): 1 ch (does not count as a stitch), 2 sc in the next stitch, 1 sc in every stitch to the end, turn. [8 (10: 12) stitches] Repeat row 2 another 7 (9: 11) times. [15 (19: 23) stitches] Next row: 2 ch, 1 half double crochet (hdc) in the next stitch, *1 ch, skip 1 stitch, 1 hdc in the next stitch; repeat from * to the end of the row, turn. Next row: 1 ch, 1 sc in every stitch, turn. Repeat the last 2 rows another two times. Next row: Work slip stitches (sl st) in every stitch along the edge loosely. Fasten off.

BACK PART (HEEL) (MAKE 2) Ch 19 (23: 27). Row 1 (Right side): 1 ch, 1 sc in the second ch from the hook, 1 sc in every stitch to the end, turn. [18 (22: 26) stitches] Row 2: 1 ch, 1 sc in every stitch, turn. Rows 3-5: Repeat row 2. Row 6: 1 ch, skip the first stitch, 1 sc in each of the next 15 (19: 23) stitches, skip 1 stitch, 1 sc in the last stitch, turn. [16 (20: 24) stitches] Row 7: 1 ch, 1 sc in every stitch, turn. Row 8: 1 ch, skip the first stitch, 1 sc in each of the next 13 (17: 21) stitches, skip 1 stitch, 1 sc in the last stitch, turn. [14 (18: 22) stitches] Row 9: 1 ch, 1 sc in every stitch, turn. Row 10: 1 ch, skip the first stitch, 1 sc in each of the next 11 (15: 19) stitches, skip 1 stitch, 1 sc in the last stitch, turn. [12 (16: 20) stitches] Row 11: 1 ch, 1 sc in every stitch. Fasten off.

LACING Chain 50; with the right side facing you, work slip stitches (sl st) in every stitch along Row 11 of the heel, chain another 50. Fasten off.

FRINGES The fringes along the top of the front part consist of a row of mini tassels. The tassels are inserted every two slip stitches along the top edge of the front part.

1. Cut 5 strands of yarn, each 10 cm long.
2. Fold the strands in half, use the crochet hook to pull the folded ends partially through the stitch.
3. Pass the ends of the strands through the loop and pull tight to secure.
4. Repeat along the entire top edge of the front part, every two stitches, then trim the fringes with scissors. Hide all yarn ends.

FINISHING Pin the front and back parts to the soles, ensuring they are positioned evenly. Once satisfied with the placement, sew them to the sole. Hide any remaining yarn ends.

Creating your own crochet espadrilles is a great way to exercise your manual skills and get personalized footwear, perfect for summer walks. Thanks to the breathable design and the playful touch of the mini tassels, you will be ready to face the season with style and comfort. Happy crocheting!

Ideal for those who love high-quality craftsmanshipIn the world of contemporary handmade craft, the quest for sustainable materials with an authentic charm has brought an ancient technique back to the forefront, skillfully reimagined for modern times: the use of paper yarn. The bag we explore in this guide is not just a summer accessory; it is a fashion statement that blends the rustic quality of raffia with the lightness and versatility of twisted paper.

In this article, we will guide you step-by-step through the creation of this unique model, analyzing not only the execution technique but also the secrets for working with this particular material.

1. The Philosophy of the Project: Why Paper Fiber?

The charm of this bag lies in its materiality. “Paper yarn” is an innovation that reinterprets the classic raffia look. Unlike natural raffia, which can sometimes be stiff or irregular, twisted paper yarn offers a consistency in thickness that facilitates crochet work while maintaining a solid yet surprisingly soft structure.

This design choice transforms an accessory into a tactile element, perfect for accompanying a summer outfit (like the brown dress worn by the model in the image) with naturalness and elegance.

2. Preparation and Materials

Before diving into the work, it is essential to organize your materials. For a bag with final dimensions of approximately 30×36 cm, you will need:

• Twisted raffia yarn (100% paper): 1 skein of 150g, beige.
• 100% cotton yarn: 1 skein, dark brown.
• 4 mm crochet hook.
• Yarn needle.
• Stitch markers (SM).

Size: Approximately 30×36 cm.

The Professional’s Trick

For the brown yarn, the pattern recommends using two strands together. To make the work easier and avoid tangles, we suggest preparing two separate skeins before starting so that you can pull the thread from both simultaneously without unnecessary tension.

3. Instructions

Preliminary Informations

• 2 crossed double crochets (2 dc cross): Skip 1 st, 1 dc in the next st, 1 dc in the previous skipped st.
• The bag is worked in the round, from the bottom up. The handle is worked in back-and-forth rows at the base of the top edge.
• When working with the brown yarn, join two strands and work them together; we recommend preparing two separate skeins.

The work is done in the round, from the bottom up. This technique provides the bag with superior strength, eliminating the need for side seams that could weaken the structure.

Work Phases

1. The Base: Start with the beige yarn, chaining 42. Follow the first round scrupulously, working around the base chain to create a solid oval.
2. The Body: Continue with the crossed double crochets for the first few rounds. The transition to brown yarn (worked double-stranded) in the 4th and 5th rounds creates a band of color that breaks the monotony and adds structural strength.
3. Continuity: From the 6th to the 21st round, repeat the sequence from the 2nd to the 5th round. This alternation is not only decorative but marks the rhythm of the bag.

Bag Base and Body

• Using the beige yarn, chain 42 and work as follows:
  • Round 1 (RS): 1 sc in the second chain from the hook, 1 sc in the next 39 chains, 3 sc in the last chain; rotate the work to continue on the opposite side of the foundation chain: 1 sc in each chain until the last, 2 sc in the last chain; 1 sl st in the initial sc. [84 sts].
  • Round 2: 3 ch (counts as the first dc, also in subsequent rows), 1 dc in the stitch to the right of the 3 ch, 41 pairs of dc cross; 1 sl st in the third initial ch. [42 pairs of dc cross].
  • Round 3: Repeat the second round.
• Switch to the brown yarn (held double).
  • Rounds 4 and 5: 1 ch (does not count as a stitch, also in subsequent rounds), 1 sc in each stitch of the row; 1 sl st in the initial sc. [84 sts].
• Switch to the beige yarn.
  • Rounds 6 to 21: Repeat from the 2nd to the 5th round.

Handle

• Formed by 2 parts worked separately and sewn together.
• Flatten the bag and insert 1 SM at the center front and 1 SM at the center back (you will have 42 stitches on both sides of the SM). Join the beige yarn in the fourth stitch after the SM.
  • Row 1: 3 ch (counts as the first dc), 1 dc in the stitch preceding the 3 ch, 18 pairs of dc cross, turn. [17 pairs of dc cross].
  • Row 2: 1 ch (does not count as a stitch), 1 sl st in the first 4 sts, 3 ch, 1 dc in the stitch preceding the 3 ch, 16 pairs of dc cross, turn, leaving the last 2 sts unworked. [17 pairs of dc cross].
  • Row 3: 1 ch, 1 sl st in the first 4 sts, 3 ch, 1 dc in the stitch preceding the 3 ch, work in dc cross along the row until the last 2 sts, turn, leaving the last 2 sts unworked. [15 pairs of dc cross].
  • Rows 4 to 9: Repeat the third row. [3 pairs of dc cross at the end of the ninth row].
  • Row 10: 1 sl st in the first 2 sts, 1 ch, 1 sc in the same base stitch as the chain, 1 sc in the next 3 sts, turn, leaving the last stitch unworked. [4 sts].
  • Rows 11 to 35: 1 ch, 1 sc in each stitch of the row, turn.
• Fasten off and repeat on the opposite side. Sew the last rows together to form the handle.

Border

• Join the brown yarn in the last skipped stitch at the center of one side.
  • Round 1: (3 ch, 1 sl st in the next dc of the handle row end) repeat until the ends of the sc rows, 1 sc in the end of each sc row, (3 ch, 1 sl st in the end of the next dc row) repeat until the end, 3 ch, 1 sl st at the base of the initial 3 ch, 1 sl st in the 3-ch space.
  • Round 2: 1 ch, 3 sc in each 3-ch space and 1 sc in each sc of the round; 1 sl st in the initial sc.

Bow (x2)

• Using the beige yarn, chain 80, then switch to the brown yarn.
  • Row 1: 1 sc in the second chain from the hook, 1 sc in each chain.
• Tie into a bow and sew to the center front and back.

4. Handle Architecture

The handle is the critical element that determines the bag’s wearability. It is worked in two separate parts and then sewn together.

• Placement: The use of stitch markers is vital. By flattening the bag, center the markers on the front and back to ensure the handle is perfectly aligned.
• Shaping: The work is done in back-and-forth rows. You will notice that by proceeding upward (from the 2nd to the 9th row), the number of crossed double crochet pairs decreases. This creates an ergonomic curve, making the handle narrower and more comfortable to grip at the top.
• Closure: The final sequence (from the 10th to the 35th row) creates a straight, slim edge, ideal for holding.

5. Finishing Touches: Elegance is in the Details

Crochet work is recognized by the care put into the finishing touches.

• The Border: The brown border round, with its chains and slip stitches, acts as a “frame”. This step provides a professional and polished look, covering any irregularities from the previous work.
• The Bow: Do not underestimate the importance of the bows. In addition to being a decorative detail, they help to visually “close” the top of the bag, giving it a romantic and artisanal touch.

6. Tips for Project Success

1. Tension Management: Working with paper fiber, thread tension is different compared to wool. Maintain consistent tension to prevent the paper from breaking or the work from becoming too stiff.
2. Patience with the brown: Working two strands of cotton together requires practice to keep the stitches uniform. Take your time, especially during the 4th and 5th rounds.
3. Customization: If you want a larger bag, you can increase the number of starting chains, remembering to keep a stitch count consistent with the crossing pattern.

Making this bag is not just a technical exercise but a journey into sustainable design. By carefully following these steps and respecting the nature of the material, you will obtain a unique piece capable of resisting wear and maintaining its rustic-chic charm for many seasons. The final result will be an accessory that speaks to who you are, your dedication, and your manual skill.

Happy crocheting to all enthusiasts!

Summer is finally here, and there is no better time to get ready to hit the beach in style. This season’s absolute star is the handcrafted crochet bag, the perfect blend of aesthetics and functionality. As you can admire in the beautiful image below, the design of this delightful, lined aquamarine bag is a true tribute to summer freshness.

The inspiration comes directly from the sea: the openwork crochet motif keeps the bag lightweight and breezy, while a stunning three-dimensional sea anemone decoration, complete with delicate hanging water drops, adds a beautiful touch of coastal charm. Beyond being visually flawless, it is designed to be roomy and sturdy. It is the perfect tote for carrying your summer reads, sunscreen, and, of course, your latest crochet work-in-progress!

Ready to get started? Here is the complete tutorial to make it.

Materials Needed

For this project, we chose natural fibers, ideal for the warm season and to guarantee a long life for the accessory:

• DMC Natura Just Cotton crochet yarn (aqua green color)
• 3.5 mm crochet hook
• Stitch markers
• Paper to make the lining pattern
• 0.5 m of patterned fabric for the outer lining
• 0.5 m of solid color fabric for the inner lining
• Toy stuffing, a small amount
• Needle and thread
• Brooch pin

Eco-Tip: The lining is the perfect opportunity for an upcycling project! If you have old cotton summer shirts or fabric scraps you no longer use, this is the ideal chance to give them a new life while reducing textile waste.

How to Make the Beach Bag

The main section of the bag is worked in the round. Note: The 2 chains at the beginning of each half double crochet round of the base (Rounds 2-7) do not count as a stitch, to ensure a cleaner finish: skip the chains and slip stitch into the first half double crochet to close each round.

Base

• Base chain: Using the Surf color and the 3.5 mm hook, chain 35.
• Round 1: Single crochet in the back loop of the 2nd chain from the hook, 32 single crochets in the back loops, 3 single crochets in the last chain, turn the work, work in the space where the two chains intersect to obtain a sturdier base, 33 single crochets, 3 single crochets in the last stitch, slip stitch in the starting stitch. (72 stitches)
• Round 2: Chain 2 (does not count as a stitch), 1 half double crochet in the same stitch, 32 half double crochets, 2 half double crochets in each of the next 3 stitches, 33 half double crochets, 2 half double crochets in each of the next 3 stitches, slip stitch in the starting stitch. (78 stitches)
• Round 3: Chain 2 (does not count as a stitch), 1 half double crochet in the same stitch, 32 half double crochets, (2 half double crochets in the next stitch, 1 half double crochet) 3 times, 33 half double crochets, (2 half double crochets in the next stitch, 1 half double crochet) 3 times, slip stitch in the starting stitch. (84 stitches)
• Round 4: Chain 2 (does not count as a stitch), 1 half double crochet in the same stitch, 34 half double crochets, (2 half double crochets in the next stitch, 1 half double crochet) 3 times, 36 half double crochets, (2 half double crochets in the next stitch, 1 half double crochet) 3 times, 1 half double crochet, slip stitch in the starting stitch. (90 stitches)
• Round 5: Chain 2 (does not count as a stitch), 1 half double crochet in the same stitch, 37 half double crochets, (2 half double crochets in the next stitch, 1 half double crochet) 3 times, 39 half double crochets, (2 half double crochets in the next stitch, 1 half double crochet) 3 times, 1 half double crochet, slip stitch in the starting stitch. (96 stitches)
• Round 6: Chain 2 (does not count as a stitch), 1 half double crochet in the same stitch, 39 half double crochets, (2 half double crochets in the next stitch, 1 half double crochet) 3 times, 42 half double crochets, (2 half double crochets in the next stitch, 1 half double crochet) 3 times, 2 half double crochets, slip stitch in the starting stitch. (102 stitches)
• Round 7: Chain 2 (does not count as a stitch), 1 half double crochet in the same stitch, 42 half double crochets, (2 half double crochets in the next stitch, 1 half double crochet) 3 times, 45 half double crochets, (2 half double crochets in the next stitch, 1 half double crochet) 3 times, 2 half double crochets, slip stitch in the starting stitch. (108 stitches)

Cut and fasten off the yarn.

Main Section

Use stitch markers to mark the beginning and end of each handle to help you keep track; find the apex of each long side (count the stitches from both sides to ensure you have placed the markers evenly), place a marker 5 stitches away from both sides of the center stitch. (10 stitches)

• Round 8: Rejoin the yarn at the right marker of one of the two ends, chain 1 (does not count as a stitch), 1 single crochet in the same stitch, 11 single crochets, chain 2, (4 single crochets, chain 2) 10 times, 14 single crochets, repeat from * to *, 2 single crochets, slip stitch in the starting stitch. (108 stitches + 22 chain-2 spaces)
• Round 9 (Begin Lace Motif): Chain 3 (counts as a treble crochet), 9 treble crochets (forms the handle), skip 2 stitches, (1 treble crochet, chain 3, 1 treble crochet) in each chain-2 space (work into 11 chain-2 spaces; the single crochets are not worked), skip 2 stitches, 10 treble crochets (forms the handle), repeat from * to *, slip stitch in the top of the starting chain.
• Round 10: Chain 1 (does not count as a stitch), 1 single crochet in the same space, 9 single crochets, (2 single crochets, chain 2, 2 single crochets) in each chain-3 space, 10 single crochets (in the treble crochets of the previous round), repeat from * to *, slip stitch in the starting stitch.
• Rounds 11-24: Repeat Rounds 9 and 10 seven more times.
• Round 25: Repeat Round 9 one more time.
• Round 26: Chain 1 (does not count as a stitch), 1 single crochet in the same space, 9 single crochets, 3 single crochets in each chain-3 space, 10 single crochets (in the treble crochets of the previous round), repeat from * to *, slip stitch in the starting stitch. (86 stitches)
• Round 27: Chain 2 (counts as a half double crochet), 9 half double crochets, 2 half double crochets closed together (decrease) 16 times, 11 half double crochets, 2 half double crochets closed together 16 times, 1 half double crochet, slip stitch in the starting stitch. (54 stitches)
• Rounds 28-29: Chain 2 (counts as a half double crochet), half double crochets all around, slip stitch in the starting stitch.
• Round 30: Chain 1 (does not count as a stitch), 1 single crochet in the same space, 9 single crochets, (slip stitch, chain 4, slip stitch) in the next stitch, slip stitch 8 times, (slip stitch, chain 4, slip stitch) in the next stitch, 10 single crochets, repeat from * to *, slip stitch in the starting stitch.

Do not cut the yarn…

The lining also prevents too much sand from getting in.

(Note: In the original text, the following rounds 3 to 6 appear at this point in the layout, representing the continuation of the Anemone Base).

• Round 3: (2 single crochets in the next stitch, 1 single crochet) 6 times. (18 stitches)
• Round 4: (2 single crochets in the next stitch, 2 single crochets) 6 times. (24 stitches)
• Round 5: (2 single crochets in the next stitch, 3 single crochets) 6 times. (30 stitches)
• Round 6: (2 single crochets in the next stitch, 4 single crochets) 6 times, slip stitch in the next stitch. (6 stitches) Cut and fasten off the yarn. Stretch the disc to loosen the stitches. Weave in the ends.

Attention to Details

The main part of the bag is worked in the round. The 2 chains at the beginning of each half double crochet round of the base (Rounds 2-7) do not count as a stitch to ensure a cleaner finish; skip the chain and slip stitch into the 1st half double crochet to close each round.

Strap (Handle)

Note: The strap is worked in rows (back and forth).

• Row 1: Chain 2 (does not count as a stitch), 1 half double crochet in the same space, 9 half double crochets. (10 stitches)
• Repeat this row 40 more times or until the desired length is reached.
• Cut and fasten off the yarn, leaving a long tail.

Finishing

Use the yarn tail to sew the strap to the other side of the bag, right sides together. In the central section, fold the handle over itself twice to create an easy-to-grip section, and sew it closed. Weave in the ends.

Lining

1. Lay the bag flat on the paper and trace its outlines, leaving a seam allowance all around.
2. Use the paper pattern to cut two pieces each for the outer and inner lining.
3. With right sides together, sew the curved seam of each lining, but leave an opening on the outer lining so it can be turned right side out later. Press the seams (including the unsewn section, as it will make sewing easier later).
4. With right sides together, sew the inner and outer linings together along the top edge. Press the seams.
5. Turn the work right side out and hand-sew the opening closed.
6. Pin it inside the bag and hand-sew it in place.

How to Make the Sea Decorations

Sea Anemone

Note: Work the sea anemone base in a continuous spiral round.

Base

• Using the Dove color and the 3.5 mm hook, make a magic ring with chain 1.
• Round 1: 6 single crochets in the ring. (6 stitches)
• From this point on, work only in the back loops.
• Round 2: 2 single crochets in each stitch. (12 stitches)

Fronds

• Starting from the center, (1 slip stitch, chain 8) in each loop. We used the Lettuce color for the central part and the Dove color for the two outermost rows.

Water Drops

(Make 2) Note: Work the water drops in the round using the spiral amigurumi method.

• Use the wrong side as the right side (meaning, let the right side face inward as you work).
• Using the Dove color and the 3.5 mm hook, make a magic ring with chain 1.
• Round 1: 6 single crochets in the ring. (6 stitches)
• Round 2: 2 single crochets in each stitch. (12 stitches)
• Weave in the center yarn tail now, as it will be difficult to do it later.
• Rounds 3-5: 1 single crochet in each stitch.
• Stuff the shape.
• Round 6: 2 single crochets closed together (decrease) through the back loops 6 times. (6 stitches)
• Add more stuffing.
• Round 7: 2 single crochets closed together (decrease) through the back loops 3 times. (3 stitches)
• Round 8: Slip stitch in the stitch opposite the hook, chain 6 on one and chain 12 on the other (or more if you want it to hang lower), cut and fasten off the yarn, leaving a long tail.

Finishing

Using the long tails, sew the water drops to the back of the sea anemone and attach the brooch pin.

Ready for Summer: Your Unique Handmade Bag

Making this bag is not only a relaxing project, but it also provides the priceless satisfaction of showing off a unique accessory, designed and created entirely with your own hands. Whether you decide to take it to the beach, use it for a sunset stroll, or as a faithful companion for your outdoor summer reads, this perforated bag will be the true star of the season. The delicate detail of the sea anemone will also bring a hint of sea breeze wherever you go.

But now I am curious to discover your versions and to see how your creativity will take shape! Tell me in the comments:

• What palettes will you choose? Will you stay true to the fresh shades of aquamarine, or will you dare with the warm tones of summer sunsets?
• Room for recycling: Did you follow the upcycling tip for the lining? What old garment or fabric scrap found a beautiful new life in your project?

I can’t wait to admire your masterpieces. Remember to take a photo of your finished bag (perhaps with the sea or nature in the background!) and share it on social media by tagging Artedelricamo. It will be a pleasure to reshare the most original variations and inspire our entire community of craft lovers.

Happy crocheting and, above all, a wonderful creative summer to you all!

It is exactly within this peaceful framework that the upcoming summer fashion trends find their truest voice, intertwining with the purity of natural yarns—like the linen and cotton resting gently in our workbaskets, just waiting to be cast on. Honestly, is there anything more appealing right now than dressing in crisp, white linen?

In the world of creative sewing and textile arts, these noble, breathable fibers are the absolute stars. They slip effortlessly through our fingers, transforming into fresh, comfortable garments that move with the body in total freedom.

Returning to the Essentials

The new season invites us to strip away the unnecessary. We are seeking less artificiality and craving more authentic reality. This return to the basics is reflected in every single detail we choose to wear or craft by hand. The current trends celebrate a luminous, delicate beauty, highlighted by accessories that complete an outfit without weighing it down:

• Chiming jewelry that gently sings with your every movement.
• Lightweight sandals that practically beg for spontaneous evening strolls.
• Crochet bags crafted from sturdy rope or fabric ribbon.
• Breezy linen shirts adorned with authentic hand-stitched embroidery.

Working with yarn is, in many ways, just like experiencing summer itself: it is a way to lower our defenses and stop letting time push us forward, allowing it instead to gently walk beside us. Through crochet, embroidery, and the careful curation of fabrics, we realize that relaxing into our creative hobbies doesn’t mean disappearing from the world—it means becoming truly present with ourselves.

Let’s celebrate the vibrant energy of these long days and breathtaking sunsets. Let’s bask in the warmth of the sun on our textiles, the quiet calm of our creative projects, and everything our imagination has yet to unfold.

Fashion: The Elegance of Crochet and Earthy Palettes

This year’s summer wardrobe leaves behind rigid constraints to fully embrace a sense of absolute lightness and liberty. Fashion trends are leaning heavily into an aesthetic that champions authenticity and the conscious choice of handmade items—the true contemporary luxury. Natural fibers dictate the rules: crisp linen and breathable cotton are chosen specifically to caress the skin and keep us cool, even on the most sweltering days.

A Landscape-Inspired Palette The season’s color story draws deep inspiration from the untouched beauty of Mediterranean landscapes.

• Pure White: Reflecting the intense brightness of the summer sun.
• Warm Neutrals: Ecru and rich earth tones grounding the look.
• Pastel Blue: Mimicking the ripples of the sea kissed by a gentle breeze.
• Soft Pink: Delicate accents that echo the magical reflections of a sunset. Together, they form a symphony of colors that soothes the mind and clothes the body in pure harmony.

The Return of the Shell Stitch

Perfect for airy tops and lightweight beach cover-ups, the crochet shell stitch is the undisputed champion of 2026 beachwear. Its textured pattern, reminiscent of rolling ocean waves, gives garments a natural, fluid movement that hugs the body without ever restricting it.

Sophisticated Granny Squares

The classic “granny square” has officially traded its heavy winter palettes for chic neutral and pastel tones. Roomy tote bags perfect for impromptu beach trips and ultra-light vests have become the must-have accessories for summer evening walks.

In this landscape of natural elegance, sartorial craftsmanship reaches new heights. The art of crochet sheds its purely nostalgic reputation, transforming into a sophisticated, highly modern design element. Fine mercerized cottons and precious linen blends are masterfully intertwined to create airy textures, delicate sheer effects, and soft draping.

Home Decor: The Luxury of Handmade Details

As summer changes our perspective, the spaces we inhabit daily transform alongside us. The home expands outward: terraces come alive, and outdoor dining tables become the center of our universe.

• The Elegance of Reticello: On summer tables, rustic linen tablecloths are elevated by exquisite Reticello inserts. This ancient needlework technique, with its geometric interplay of positive and negative space, allows the sunlight to filter through, casting poetic and refined shadows across the dining spread.
• Botanical Paper Embroidery: Whether adorning the walls of our homes, special event invitations, or greeting cards, 2026 design trends highly reward delicate refinement. Paper embroidery—using fine silk threads to stitch silhouettes of leaves or wildflowers—has emerged as a true art form, bringing nature indoors with breathtaking precision.
• Mindful Cross Stitch: Cross stitch is simplifying. Today, it decorates cotton throw pillows with tiny, motivational phrases or minimalist geometric borders, quietly inviting anyone who sits down to take a break and stop checking the clock.

Creative Sewing & Sustainable Design: Upcycling as Art

Resting doesn’t mean checking out; it means showing up—even in how we consume and create. Moving into July 2026, the crafting world is fully embracing the ethics of reuse.

Zero-Waste “Scrap” Projects

Creative sewing finds its highest calling in the use of fabric scraps and leftover yarn. Piecing together remnants of cotton to create patchwork placemats, storage baskets, or woven headbands is no longer just an eco-friendly choice; it is a vibrant celebration of creativity itself.

Objects with a Soul

From upcycling rigid cardboard tubes covered in fabric to create chic desk organizers, to the restyling of vintage straw bags embellished with fresh crochet appliques—every handmade object this summer seems to hold a quiet promise of escapism and deep care for our planet.

Crafting as a State of Mind

Textile art is never just a matter of technique; it is a profound state of mind. This summer, let’s take the time to intentionally choose our yarns, to truly listen to the crisp sound of scissors slicing through fabric, and to savor the warmth of the sun as we embroider outside.

Let time stop rushing us. Enjoy the calm, immerse yourself in your creative projects, and look forward to everything that has yet to be written.

Since summer is just around the corner, there is one accessory that absolutely cannot be missing from our wardrobes: the straw bag. Very useful for an afternoon walk, a day at the beach, a stroll downtown, or a sunset aperitif, the straw bag is the true emblem of summer. But how do we make it truly unique and inimitable?

Today, I have the pleasure of sharing a project with you and all creative embroidery enthusiasts on how to transform a simple straw bag into a unique and trendy summer accessory. It is a step-by-step tutorial that will allow you to create delicate cotton floral embroideries.

I will guide you step by step to customize a straw bag using the wonderful and relaxing art of embroidery, creating delicate floral motifs in soft cotton. This is a project dedicated to creativity and handmade crafts, perfect for adding a touch of uniqueness to our summer outfits.

In my handcrafted bag collections, I have always been careful not only to preserve ancient traditions but also to pay close attention to design and the choice of materials. This is why I believe that projects like this, focused on the use of natural fibers like straw, are truly special. These creations feature a delicate aesthetic, with strong nods to the shabby chic style and the colors of nature, utilizing soft palettes such as antique pink, cream, and sage green.

How do you embroider a straw bag? The charm of this project lies precisely in using natural fibers. Embroidering with cotton threads always brings great emotion and satisfaction. Straw and raffia, with their raw and irregular textures, create a wonderful contrast with the softness and shine of cotton yarn. This project is also a fantastic opportunity for creative upcycling: if you already have an old beach bag and would like to make it unique and special, beautiful, colorful embroidery is the best way to give it a second life.

Materials Needed for the Project

Before starting, let’s set up our workspace. Here is what we will need:

• A straw or raffia bag: Preferably with a weave that is not too tight, allowing the needle to pass through easily.
• Cotton threads: The ideal choice is Pearl cotton (size 5 or 8) or classic Stranded Cotton (Mouliné), using all 6 strands to give the flowers a three-dimensional look. For a perfectly romantic style, I recommend a delicate color palette: dusty pink, mint green, and cream. You can find a wide selection of top-quality threads in our Arte del Ricamo Shop.
• Embroidery needles: Choose needles with a large eye and, if possible, blunt tips (like wool or tapestry needles) so you don’t break the straw fibers.
• Water-soluble embroidery paper (optional but recommended): Essential for transferring the design onto the bag without having to draw directly on the straw.
• Sharp embroidery scissors.

Tutorial: How to Create the Floral Embroidery Step by Step

1. Choosing and Transferring the Design

Let’s start by choosing our motif. For straw, the best designs are those that aren’t too tiny or detailed:

• Wildflowers
• Daisies
• Stylized small roses

Here are some embroidery design ideas that might be useful for customizing your straw bag:

• A branching motif (ramage) of stylized lotus flowers to be positioned in the center of the bag.

• Romantic roses to embroider on the straw bag.

• Delicate daisies as a decorative motif.

• For a clutch or a slightly smaller handbag, a tiny bouquet of flowers.

If you are using water-soluble paper, draw the motif on the paper, cut it out, and secure it to the bag with a few pins or a basting stitch. This stabilizer will act as your guide and, once the work is finished, will simply dissolve with a little water.

2. The Ideal Embroidery Stitches

To customize a straw bag, we need to use stitches that create volume and stand out on the rough surface:

• Lazy Daisy Stitch (Punto Margherita): The undisputed star of the embroidery, used to create flower petals simply and quickly. Use cream or dusty pink to craft delicate corollas.
• French Knot (Punto Nodo Francese): Perfect for making the centers of flowers or small, three-dimensional buds.
• Chain Stitch or Stem Stitch (Punto Catenella o Punto Erba): Use mint green to embroider the intertwined stems and leaves that connect the various flowers, creating a harmonious garland.

3. Executing the Embroidery

Thread the needle and tie a small knot at the end of the thread (on straw, a knot on the back is perfectly fine, as it will remain hidden or be covered by a lining). Start embroidering by following the outline. The secret here is a gentle touch: do not pull the thread too hard, otherwise you risk breaking the fibers of the bag. Let the cotton rest softly on the surface. Work calmly, enjoying every single stitch.

4. The Finishing Touches

Once the floral embroidery is complete, if you used the water-soluble stabilizer, lightly dampen the area with a wet sponge to dissolve it. Let the bag air dry. For an extra touch of class, you can line the inside of the bag using a remnant of raw linen or cotton, hand-sewing it along the upper edges. This will protect the back of the embroidery and make your bag a true masterpiece of artisanal tailoring.

Further Ideas to Decorate Your Bag

If you wish to enrich your creation even more, you can add some appliquéd details:

• Frayed linen ribbon bows attached to the handles.
• Small, colorful tassels made with the same cotton threads used for the embroidery.
• Vintage charms or buttons sewn into the center of the flowers.

Customizing a straw bag with embroidery is a wonderful project that combines a love for traditional techniques with the desire to have a modern, sustainable, and absolutely unique summer accessory.

Are you ready to put your creativity to the test? Choose your favorite colors, prepare your needle and thread, and let yourself be inspired. Don’t forget to share photos of your embroidered bags with us in the comments below or on our social media channels!

Happy embroidering and have a creative summer!

Handmade doilies continue to be always-fashionable home accessories, capable of bringing brightness, elegance, warmth, and refinement to any environment. Depending on the style of your home—classic, rustic, or a romantic shabby chic—a finely worked crochet lace doily in neutral colors is the perfect detail to enhance a wooden table, an antique dresser, or a tea tray.

In this article, we will discover together how to make a beautiful doily with a 28 cm diameter, simple yet unique, characterized by an elegant play of geometric motifs expanding in concentric circles.

There is always something magical about making a crocheted doily; it is a true emotion, a joy to see a delicate lace born from a simple cotton thread. Indeed, we know well that the art of crochet is not just a creative hobby, but a true link between history and millennial traditions, always capable of providing immense satisfaction and helping us forget the fast-paced rhythms that invade our days.

Today I have chosen to make a crocheted doily that combines elegance and romance—you are in the right place! I will guide you step by step in creating a wonderful white lace doily with a diameter of 28 cm. Characterized by an elegant play of geometric motifs expanding in concentric circles, it is the perfect project to test your skills and create something truly special.

How to Showcase Your Doily: Styling Ideas Handmade doilies can be used for any occasion. Forget the idea of “grandma’s old doily,” today these laces are the stars of interior design! Here are some ideas to make the most of it:

• Romantic Centerpiece: It is perfect placed in the center of a raw wood table (in full rustic or farmhouse style) under a glass vase or a ceramic pitcher full of fresh flowers, like peonies or roses.

• Shabby Chic Detail: Lay it on a wooden tray or an elegant silver tray to serve afternoon tea or for your Sunday breakfasts.

• Boho Wall Art: Looking for a modern idea? Stretch the doily inside a wooden embroidery hoop, or frame it against a dark, contrasting background. It will become an original wall decoration!

• Bedroom Decoration: Perfect on a nightstand under a vintage lamp or on an old dresser to protect its surface with extreme elegance.

Materials

Dimensions: the diameter of the doily is 28 cm

What you need:

• Anchor Freccia white yarn no. 8

• 1.5 mm crochet hook

Doily Pattern

Instructions Chain 10 (ch) and join the last stitch into a ring with 1 slip stitch (sl st). Continue working in circular rounds following the pattern shown in this tutorial. Work from the 1st to the 17th round:

• From the 1st to the 4th round: work 7 motifs (repeats).
• From the 8th to the 10th round: work 21 motifs.
• On the 11th round: work 42 motifs.
• From the 12th to the 14th round: work 21 motifs.
• From the 15th to the 17th round: work 84 motifs.

Care and Washing Tips for Your Doily To maintain the beauty, brightness, and delicacy of your new crochet masterpiece over time, it is essential to take care of it the right way. Cotton thread is durable, but such fine lace work requires care, which is why I am sharing some useful tips and tricks:

• Hand washing: wash the doily strictly by hand, in cold or slightly lukewarm water, using a neutral detergent or classic Marseille soap. Let it soak for a few minutes to dissolve the dirt, absolutely avoiding rubbing or wringing the lace.

• Drying: to remove excess water, never wring it out! Roll it gently inside a clean terry towel and pat dry. Afterwards, lay it strictly flat on a dry surface, away from heat sources and direct sunlight to prevent the white from yellowing.

• How to block the doily: To bring out the wonderful geometric motifs to the fullest and obtain a flawless circular shape, the doily needs to be “blocked” (shaped). While it is still slightly damp, you can starch it (with a specific spray or a light mixture of water and starch) and pin it onto a soft board, gently pulling the edges to open the stitches up well. If you prefer to simply iron it, always do so on the reverse side, at a medium temperature, placing a clean cotton cloth in between so as not to flatten the three-dimensionality of the work.

Making this doily is not just a simple crochet project; it is a small and precious gift you give to yourself. Imagine the immense satisfaction of seeing that simple white thread transform, round after round, into a true work of art full of elegant details, born solely from the patience and mastery of your hands.

Thanks to its 28 cm diameter, it is a very rewarding project: it won’t take you months of work, but it will keep you sweet company in your precious evening moments of spare time or during a quiet Sunday afternoon, perhaps accompanied by a steaming cup of tea and relaxing background music.

It is the ideal project for those who want to challenge themselves with their creative skills, and the perfect refuge for those seeking that moment of pure “mindfulness” that only the art of crochet can provide.

All that’s left is to prepare your cozy workstation. Grab your crochet hook, choose the most comfortable and brightest corner of the house, and let yourself be carried away by the magic of the stitches.

Are you ready to create a home decor detail that will make anyone who crosses the threshold of your home fall in love?

Happy crocheting, and above all, have fun creating!

Daisies, violets, tulips, geraniums, and even a rose that has just bloomed in my garden!

These are all lovely flowers you can embroider on a pillow, a tea towel, or the fabric of a tablecloth.

The truly wonderful part is that your pillow, tea towel, or tablecloth will be entirely yours and your family’s — handmade by you and completely unique.

You might feel inspired to look for some embroidery patterns to stitch.

Techniques for Embroidering Flowers on Fabric

The most delightful part is that your pillow, tea towel, or tablecloth will be something truly personal for you and your family — handmade by you and completely unique. You may feel inspired to look for embroidery patterns to try, such as techniques for stitching flowers on fabric, a cherry blossom embroidered pillow, spring flowers and bees on a baby sheet, or even fresh spring-themed cross‑stitch designs.

Cherry Blossom Embroidered Pillow

A beautiful cross‑stitch project featuring delicate cherry blossom flowers embroidered on a pillow. It highlights the soft, romantic look of cherry blossoms and explains how this design can add a fresh, spring‑inspired touch to home décor.

Spring Flowers and Bees on a Baby Sheet

It presents a sweet and delicate cross‑stitch design created for a baby’s bedsheet. The motif features a row of colorful spring flowers accompanied by tiny buzzing bees, giving the fabric a cheerful and playful look. The design is simple, bright, and perfect for children’s linens, adding a handmade touch of warmth and joy to a baby’s room. The pattern is available on the Coatscraft website, making it easy for anyone to recreate this charming floral-and-bee border.

Spring Cross-Stitch Patterns

A variety of cross‑stitch flower patterns, offering inspiration for anyone who enjoys stitching floral designs. It includes several different charts, each linked to external websites where the patterns can be viewed or downloaded. The collection brings together simple and detailed floral motifs, making it easy to explore new ideas and choose the perfect design for your next embroidery project.

And if you feel inspired, you might start stitching a few flowers even before spring arrives — a lovely way to bring a fresh, springlike feeling into your home.

In this article, we’ll explore how to host your very own “T‑Shirt Yarn Party” — a fun, creative upcycling session where old clothes are transformed into beautiful storage baskets, rugs, and home décor accents.

Why Recycle Old T‑Shirts?

The textile industry is one of the most polluting in the world. Recycling a single T‑shirt isn’t just a fun hobby — it’s a conscious act of sustainability. Turning waste into a resource allows you to:

• Reduce the amount of clothing sent to landfills
• Save money by avoiding industrial yarn
• Create unique, personalized items you won’t find in any store

What Is a “T‑Shirt Yarn Party”?

The idea is simple: gather friends, family, or even enjoy a quiet afternoon on your own to “deconstruct” your old wardrobe. A T‑Shirt Yarn Party is the creative evolution of the classic knitting circle, where the goal is to produce long, continuous strips of yarn ready to be braided, crocheted, or woven into new creations.

What You Need to Get Started

• Old T‑shirts: Ideally 100% cotton and without side seams
• Fabric scissors: Sharp blades are essential to avoid fraying the fabric
• A large crochet hook: Usually between 8 mm and 12 mm
• Good music and snacks: Absolutely essential for the perfect crafting vibe

How to Cut Your T‑Shirt Yarn Step by Step

Lay the T‑shirt flat: Place it on a table and remove the top part (from the armpits upward) along with the bottom hem. You’ll be left with a fabric “tube.”

Cut horizontal strips: Fold the tube so that one side almost meets the other, leaving a gap of about 2–3 cm at the top. Cut horizontal strips about 2 cm wide, stopping before the uncut margin.

Make the diagonal cut: Open the uncut section of the T‑shirt. To create one continuous strand of yarn, cut diagonally from the first slit to the second, from the second to the third, and so on.

Stretch the yarn: Once you have your long strip, pull it firmly. The cotton will curl in on itself, turning into a smooth, tubular yarn perfect for crocheting or weaving.

DIY Crochet Baskets – The XL Crochet Technique

Once you’ve made your T‑shirt yarn, the most popular project is definitely a basket — perfect as a catch‑all container or a stylish plant holder. Here are the key steps:

The Magic Ring

Start with a magic ring to avoid holes at the base of the basket. Work 6–8 single crochet stitches into the ring.

Increasing the Base

To keep the base flat, increase the number of stitches in each round:

• Round 2: Work 2 single crochet stitches into every stitch from the previous round.
• Round 3: 1 single crochet, 1 increase — repeat around. Continue increasing in this pattern until the base reaches your desired diameter.

Building the Sides

To create the basket walls, stop increasing. Work one single crochet into each stitch, inserting your hook only into the back loop. This creates a sharp edge that helps the basket rise straight up.

Creative Ideas for Your T‑Shirt Yarn Party

It’s not just about baskets! With the yarn you create from old T‑shirts, you can make:

• Bathroom rugs: Using an oversized crochet hook, you can craft soft, super‑absorbent mats.
• Colorful trivets: Perfect for adding a fun pop of color to your kitchen.
• Cat hammocks: If you have plenty of yarn, you can braid a sturdy little swing for your furry friends.

Hosting a T‑Shirt Yarn Party is the perfect way to combine creativity, social time, and eco‑friendly living. Not only will you end up with bright, handmade baskets to organize your home, but you’ll also enjoy the satisfaction of rescuing forgotten fabrics from the back of your closet.

Remember: every T‑shirt deserves a second life — all you need is a pair of scissors and a spark of imagination.

Where to Buy T‑Shirt Yarn

You can find a variety of T‑shirt yarn spools for crochet projects in our online shop, Arte del Ricamo Shop.

This crochet carpet is very easy to do, you can create many colorful hexagons or use only one color of yarn; add them together to create shape and size you want. In this project, the carpet is made of 10 crochet hexagons but you can make it with more hexagons, all depend on the environment in which you want to place it.

DMC Natura XL yarn is available in a range of 30 colors, it is a yarn useful to do very large crochet works and it is perfect for beginners. The crochet project you find here below is made using this yarn, I assure you the resut will be very good.

Materials

To achieve this carpet we used the following colors::

• Orange n. 10
• Turquoise n. 81
• Fuxia n. 43
• Red n. 05
• Green n. 82

Crochet hook to use – size n.7 Finished size of the crochet carpet is 90×120 cm. A crochet hexagon misure 30 cm of diamter.

How to Do a Crochet Carpet

Start form the center, work 6 sc on the magic ring.

Follow the pattern:

After completing the 7 rounds indicated  on the chart, cut the thread. Realize 10 crochet hexagons using different colors (2 for each of the 5 colors listed on the materials section) and join sewing them between and alternating colors.

This pattern was also published in two spanish crochet magazines: Mollie Crea and En Casa. If you want to learn the art of crochet I suggest you take a look at the crochet lessons published on this blog.

This project comes from Japan and has been made with an embroidery technique very ancient: the Sashiko.

The technique of Sashiko is to achieve very beautiful designs, some both simple and difficult, often with geometric forms, to be performed with running stitch using white embroidery threads and indigo fabrics.

In Japan, Sashiko embroidery is an embroidery technique very effective practice for the mind and body as it turns out to be relaxing and contemplative. If  you would like to do these place mats and in the same time meantime relax you can follow the instructions stepby  step here below.

Materials

• Sotema – Rustichella fabric – color blue or
• Fratelli Graziano – Colonia fabric – color deep blue
• DMC Transfer paper
• DMC Mouliné white, 761 light pink and 760 pink

Embroidery Stitch Used

For this project it is only used running stitch:

Instructions

For each place mat, cut two pieces of fabric rectangular size of 43 x 33 cm.

Print Sashiko designs proposed here below and transfer it onto the fabric using a sheet of transfer paper that contrasts with the color of the fabric (white or yellow).

Embroider the design. As you’ve already noticed Sashiko designs are made in running stitch. Use a crewel needle to embroider so that the stitches are executed perfectly and have continuity. This technique works best designs in straight lines because you can make more stitches at a time but you can do the running stitch making singular stitches, surely the result will be satisfactory.

Overlap the two pieces of fabric (the embroidered and the other not embroidered) matching right sides facing and sew to 2.5 cm from the edge, leaving an open space of 5 cm. Turn the mat, with two straight and finish the stitching visible.

Scarica gli schemi

Flowers and waves designs

Arches designs

Everyone has their own personal way to hold the hook and control the thread in crochet. So the first question for you is: are you a lefty or a righthy?

Right handers hold the hook in their right hand – the one that you eat with or write with – usually as though it were a pencil; or in a firmer, overhand grip.

The left hand holds the work and at the same time controls the yarn supply. If you prefer the left hand index finger can be used to manipulate the yarn, while the middle finger holds onto the work.

To mantain the slight tension in the yarn necessar for easy, even working, it can help to arrange the yarn around the fingers of the left hand in this way.

Crochet for Left Handers

Your hook will be held in your left hand and the yarn or crochet thread will be manipulated in your right hand.

There are different ways to hold your hook, there are also different ways to hold the yarn or thread. The most common way is to loop the yarn around the index finger of your right hand.

Keep the free end up and allow the end attached to the skein of yarn to feed across your palm.

To hold the thread, loop the yarn around the index finger of your right hand. Keep the free end up and allow the end attached to the skein of yarn to feed across your palm.

Dummies  is a very interesting web site with a lot of informations about crochet beginners.

You can find other useful crochet information on Redheart web site.

The chain stitch is the bais of all craft work. There is no design, however intricate and beautiful, that does not largely depend upon this stitch and its various modifications for its entire structure, and once it can be made perfectly and easly, any crocheted article may be produced with a smoothness and finish only to be attained by evenly made stitches.

The methods of beginning a chain are numerous and are varied according to the manner of holding the thread or the proficiency of the worker; and generally, if the method is awkward, it is the out-come either of incorrect instruction or name at all.

Some who crochet tie a single knot and draw a loop through it for their first stitch; others produce the same result by making a twist of thread in the left hand and with the hook in the right drawing a loop through the twist, thus forming a “slip knot”, as it is commonly called.

The twist of yarn is formed and then held by the thumb and forefinger of the left hand, the yarn is then arranged over the fingers by the instructions given below before the hook is inserted in the loop.

When the latter is drawn tout, both hands will be in proper position to go on with the work out one. Or, the knot may be drawn, tout and the yarn or thread then arranged as follows: hold the work, as it progresses, between the thumb and forefinger of the left hand with the thread or yarn passing over the first finger, under the next two fingers, and over or lightly around the fourth or little finger, to produce a sort of tension by which to tighten or loosen the yarn according to the requirements of the work.

Hold the needle or hook in the right hand in much the same position as a pen is properly held in writing. A strict observance of the methods of those who crochet has proved that the majority of them hold their work in this way.

Hawing made the slip-knot and arranged the yarn over the hook as seen in figure n.2 and by a slight movement draw it through the knot, slipping the latter of the hook as in figure n. 3.  This movement repeated forms the chain.

To widen in plain crochet work, two stitches are made in the same place; and in narrowing a stitch in the preceding row is skipped at the point to be narrowed.

Source: The Art of Crocheting

Here below there is the most important list of crochet abbreviations used in patterns and instructions, a very interesting tool for crochet lovers to read and understand written crochet tutorials.

Most crochet stitches have shorted names or abbreviations. For example, instead of saying double crochet stitch throughout a pattern, the instructions abbreviate dc.

A

• alt – alternate
• approx – approximately

B

• beg – begin/beginning
• bet – between
• BL – back loop(s)
• bo – bobble
• BP – back post
• BPdc – back post double crochet
• BPsc – back post single crochet
• BPtr – back post treble crochet

C

• CA – color A
• CB – color B
• CC – contrasting color
• ch – chain stitch
• ch- – efers to chain or space previously made: e.g., ch-1 space
• ch-sp – chain spac
• CL – cluster
• cm – centimeter(s)
• cont – continue

D

• dc – double crochet
• dc2tog – double crochet 2 stitches together
• dec – decrease/decreases/decreasing
• dtr – double treble

F

• FL – front loops
• foll – follow/follows/following
• FP – front post
• FPdc – front post double crochet
• FPsc – front post single crochet
• FPtr – front post treble crochet

G

• g – gram

H

• hdc – half double crochet

I

• inc – increase/increases/increasing

L

• lp(s) – loops

M

• m – meter(s)
• MC – main color
• mm – millimeter(s)

N

O

• oz – ounce(s)

P

• p – picot
• patt – patterns
• pc – popcorn
• pm – place marker
• prev – previous

R

• rem – remain/remaining
• rep – repeat(s)
• rnd(s) – round(s)
• RS – right side

S

• sc – single crochet
• sc2tog – single crochet 2 stitches together
• sk – skip
• Sl st – slip sitich
• sp(s) – space(s)
• st (s) – stitch(es)

T

• tch – turning chain
• tbl – through back loop
• tog – together
• tr – treble crochet
• trtr – triple treble crochet

W

• WS – wrong side

Y

• yd(s) – yard(s)
• yo – yarn over
• yoh – yarn over hook

Symbols

[ ] – work instructions within brackets as many times as directed;

( ) – work instructions within parentheses as many times as directed;

* – repeat the instructions following the single asterisk as directed;

* * – repeat instructions between asterisks as many times as directed or repeat from a given set of instructions;

” – inch(es)

It is very nice to do Christmas decorations using crochet and colored yarns. I decided to use DMC Babylo crochet yarn to do white snowflakes. They are very useful as placeholder, to decorate Christmas tree or christmas gifts.

Here below there are the instructions to realize crochet snowflakes

Material

• DMC Babylo n. 20
• Crochet Hook n. 1.25

Abbreviations

Ch – chain stitch

dc – double crochet

dtr – double treble crochet

hdc – half double crochet

sc – single crochet

sp(s) – space(s)

tr – treble crochet

YO -yarn over

How to do Cluster

To work Cluster, ch3, YO, insert hook in third ch from hook, YO and pull up a loop, Yo and draw through 2 loops on hook, Yo, insert hook in same ch, Yo and pull a loop, YO and draw through 2 loops on hook, YO and draw through all 3 loops on hook.

Instructions

Rnd. 1 (Right Side): Ch 8,(dc, ch 4) 5 times in eight ch from hook; join with slip st tofourth ch of beginning ch-8: 6ch-4 sps.

Rnd 2: Ch 3 (counts as first dc, now and throughout), (2 dc, ch 3, 2 dc) in next ch-4 sp, *dc in next dc, (2dc, ch 3, 2 dc) in next ch-4 sp; repeat from * around; join with slip st to first dc: 30dc.

Rnd. 3: Slip st in next 2 dc and in next ch 3 sp, ch 3, (2 dc, ch 5, 3 dc) in same sp, * ch 3, (3 dc, ch 5, 3 dc) in next ch-3 sp; repeat from * around, ch 1, hdc in first dc to form last ch 3 sp: 12 sps.

Rnd 4: Ch1, sc in same sp, ch 1, * ++ (tr, work Cluster) twice in next ch-5 sp, (dtr in same sp, work Cluster) twice, (tr, work Cluster, tr) in same sp, ch 1++, sc in next ch 3 sp, ch 1; repeat from * 4 times more, then repeat from ++ to ++ once; join with slip st to first sc, finish off.

You can create a lot of motifs, blocks and different patterns. It is very interesting to use multi-coloured borders around a design.

Here below the instruction to learn how to do algerian eye stitch:

Materials

• Aida fabric
• Perlé embroidery cotton
• Crewel embroidery needle
• Algerian Eye Pattern

Instruction

Come up at 1 and go down at 2 – the center of the stitch – making a straigt stitch the lenght you desire.

Then emerge with the needle at 3. Point 2 becomes the pivot point for the stitches. Continues inserting the needle at the centre 2.

Emerge with the needle at 4 continues inserting the needle at the centre 2.

Emerge with the needle at 5 continues inserting the needle at the centre 2.

Emerge with the needle at 6 continues inserting the needle at the centre 2.

Emerge with the needle at 7 continues inserting the needle at the centre 2.

Emerge with the needle at 8 continues inserting the needle at the centre 2.

Emerge with the needle at 9 and finish the stitch insert the needle at the centre 2.

Well done! You have created your first Algerian eye stitch.

Do you want to do colorful and creative Easter decoration or egg hunt? Henry Happened has a very interesting tutorial to do Nail polish marbling using your unwanted nail polish.

Click here for te tutorial.

Do you like a crochet gift for Easter? You can still get it done. On the Craftzine blog you can get this very cute pattern. Just in time for Easter.

This collection of DMC fashion threads for knitting works is ispired to the nordic european misty landscapes, tundra, frozen lakes, windy steppes… wild and rugged sceneries all over the world. Primitive landscapes, where nature reigns supreme.

The Nordic Spirit woman use to wear garments in natural wools and raw materials, which wraps up the body. The colours come from the bare lands, or you can find the turquoises of deep lakes, the strong nuances of overpowering waterfalls and the powerful colours of the northern lights. Thick yarns in astonishing shades dominate the Nordic Spirit style. There are a range of fashionable and stylish patterns to knit using Nordic Spirit.

Download Yarns Color Card

Features – Product Highlights

OSLO super chunky, 100% pure virgin wool, un-dyed, useful to create a soft and warm effect. Available in 5 neutral colours in 100g balls.

OTTAWA super chunky, 30% wool 70% microfiber hypoallergenic poly-acrylic. Available in 50g balls in 8 bright and fashionable colours.

ASPEN chunky, 45% wool, 45% hypoallergenic poly-acrylic, microfiber, 10% hypoallergenic polyamide microfiber. Available in 6 pastel colours in 50g balls.

AURORA super chunky, 50% wool, 50% hypoallergenic poly-acrylic, microfiber. Available in 6 mixed tonal colours in 50g balls.

VICTORIA chunky, 100% pure super wash wool. Available in 7 variegated fashionable shades, in 50g balls.

This chart has been formulated only as a guide to assist you in selecting color from the DMC family of products. Please use your own judgement in making the final decision on color interpretation.

Download pdf chart

These are the most useful mittens to give to your friends in winter, especially for Valentine’s Day. You know handmade gifts are very appreciate!

I invite you to take a look at the Story by Modcloth Blog, there is a very interesting craft project useful to do your own dip-dyed mittens from an old sweater.

We dont write admissions essays for clients; instead, we help them write the best essays that they are scholarly publishing houses that provide students with essays that the student is trying to appear more convincing than giving solid proof for something. Join facebook to connect with essay helper as well as consternation.

Crochet is an extraordinarily technique that allow you to make a vaste range of decoration and home decore accessories. To start with crochet, only you need a hook and crochet yarn. You can use cotton crochet yarn or wool yarn, depends on the type yarn you use, you can create different crochet works.

It is great to combine crochet stitches and different colours of yarn, you can create delicate motif, a thicker yarn produces a sturdy fabric. Beautiful textured and raised stitches are very easy to do in crochet. You can also crochet with fine threads to create lacy projects like doilies and towel borders.

There is a series of basic stitches, you can start to make a slip stitch, wrapping the yarn around the hook and pulling a loop through the slip stitch. This is the basic chain stitch. A series of chains creates a foundation row and from this base you build rows of stitches.

You can crochet in rows, keeping your work flat, or you can join your stitches, creating a ring and work in the round.

Do you love crochet work? Would you like to do crochet favors? This Mani di Fata crochet magazine is very useful to create crochet favors for any event. Inside the magazine you will find the detailed instructions, diagrams and images useful in achieving step by step your favors.

To make this favors you can use colored DMC Babylo cotton threads and customize your creations with ribbons and beads.

You can buy this crochet magazine on Arte del Ricamo Shop

Are you looking for a personalized gift? Would you like to choose somethingspecial and useful? Arte del Ricamo Shop gives you the opportunity to personalize gifts. These are quality products Made in Italy:

• You can choose the fabric to make tablecloths, covers, servizietti individuallanes and center table;

• You can combine objects in ceramics can be personalized with pictures, writtenphrases and greetings.

The mug in the picture above is a useful gift idea and very refined, together with an individual tablecloth made ​​with linen Riviera fabric checkered green andwhite.

The conical ceramic mug that you can see in the Art Embroidery Shop ceramic section is a quality product made ​​in Italy tested for power.

The mat is made with linen riviera Fratelli Graziano, Italian tessiturificio that produces textiles and household linen of quality in linen and cotton.

You can also personalize the mat with embroidery, lettering and monograms.

For Information: shop@artedelricamo.com

Your Haberdasher in a Click

I designed Arte del Ricamo Shop to realize my dream: I would like to offer all my embroidery and craft friends online products and quality services so that they can turn their ideas into precious creations.

Arte del Ricamo Shop is an online store specializing in needlework and craft supplies. It is the smart way to buy online fabrics, yarns, accessories and DIY craft products.

• You can choose an embroidery or craft project considering your skills and abilities.
• You can request personalized patterns and embroidery designs
• You can watch video tutorials, instructions and learn new embroidery stitches.

The goal is to preserve handmade tradition of Italian embroidery and textile manufacturers using new technology and social media.

All quality products and top brands such as DMC or Coats threads, Fratelli Graziano, Bellora and Emilio Gatti embroidery fabric, BM Ricami and Morosin Louigia ready to stitch baby linen. The colorful felt by Stafil and many other materials to give vent to your creativity.

Threads

Fabric

Border and Laces

Haberdashery Accessories

For you who are passionate about knitting and crochet here’s areally exciting: Just Nature DMC Cotton. This is a new cotton yarnfor knitting and crochet hook with a wide range of colors to be able to easily match together.

The delicate colors and soft natural shades allow you to createmodern and stylish clothes. You can work with a single wire, take a few wires and you can have fun by combining a variety of colorsto your liking.

It is a yarn ideal for making garments spring and summer: softsweaters, jackets, shawls, pareos. You can unleash your creativitycreate colorful fashion accessories. The yarn is already available on the Arte del Ricamo Shop online store, try it out!

Here below are the instructions to make a pretty dress for summer.

Material

• 2 skeins of DMC Nature n.05 color
• 1 skein of DMC Nature n.20 color
• 2 skeins of DMC Nature n.25 color
• 2 skeins of DMC Nature n.04 color
• 2 skeins of DMC Nature n.08 color
• 4 skeins of DMC Nature n.03 color
• 2 skeins of DMC Nature n.24 color
• 7mm knitting needles
• Misures of dress n.40

Points Used

• Point shaved Jersey
• Rice point

Construction of Dress

Back: with 3 wires (n.25, n.20 and n.03) start 68 points. Work 4 rows up rice. Continue in stockinette st following the pattern ofcolors in the image here below. Decrease 1 link for every 10 rows7 times.

Armholes: 3 points to close once and continue to stitch shavedexcept for the 3 points of each edge that is working to developrice, continue closing the points indicated on the diagram: Working on 4 ‘and 5’ from the point next to the straight edge.

Neck: A 74 cm focal points to work 28 rice stitch, after 2 points to close the 16 central points, keep each side separately and closethe points indicated.

Shoulders: Close points every two points

Front: Same as the back except for the neckline. A 53 cm, 6 focal points to work the rice stitch and close the points listed every twosuccessive points to 3 points on the board as the armholes.

Do you want to learn cross stitch? Are you a beginner and you are not sure which fabric to use? For your first cross stitch project I advice you to choose a fabric with a thread count easy to see.  It is preferable for you start with 11 – and 14 count fabrics. There are also six, seven and eight count fabrics but they are useful for children that like to learn cross stitch. Once you learn to embroider cross stitch, you can try to use finer fabrics that have more threads to the inch.

Cross stitch is worked on an evenweave fabric that has the same number of threads woven vertically (warp) and horizontally (weft).

Aida is the most popular fabric used to embroider cross stitch because the squares are easy to see. Aida is woven in a groups of four threads that form distinctive squares with corner holes. There are several different colors of Aida fabric: white, cream, pink, light blue, red. I generally use DMC Aida fabric, it is very fine in 100% cotton, there is also Aida Impression where the fabric is stamped with colored butterfly, blue or pink spots.

There is another kind of count thread fabric called Hardanger, it is available in 100% cotton, 28 count evenweave that can be used for cross stitch and hardanger works.  I use Fratelli Graziano hardanger fabric and it is available in white and cream colors.

Linen is another kind of fabric, very popular useful to create elegant cross stitch works. Linen is a plain-weave fabric, in fact each fabric thread is woven in the typical over-under method. I prefer to use Fratelli Graziano linen beacouse are very

When cutting fabric, be sure that it is 2″to 4″ larger on all sides than the finished design size to allow enough space for matting and other finishing techniques.

On DMC website there is a free cross stitch pattern with loving bears usefull to create a picture or a blanket for your baby. You can use DMC Aida Impression and DMC Mouliné threads.

Download the pattern

Source: www.dmc.com

On the Freexstitchpatterns Blog there is a very nice free cross stitch pattern with a child who holds the American flag. Finished design size: 7.6″ x 6.9″. DMC color used are 20 and the chart is easy to read and fun to stitch.

Download

They commonly call them the help essays, the help essay or just plain writing essay help. Texas state requires an admission essay topics below are the same topics in the to upload your completed essay directly to the office of undergraduate admissions, please note: texas state university search for. Help with sample personal statements, and academic writing.

Are you a creative woman? Do you like to expand your craft techniques? It is very interesting to consider needlework embroidery not only an ancient craft but also a very important technique for your craft ideas.

On the Hobbyfarms web site there is a very interesting articles with an introduction to the needlepoint history, the meaning of embroidery, how to start to learn embroidery and the importance of embroidery kits.

Source: www.hobbyfarms.com

Download the pattern

This cross stitch pattern is useful to decorate greeting cards, placemats and winter pot holders. The size of this pattern is 30X35 squares; color threads used are: red (666), beige (642) and gray 3866.

How to make crochet angels? Which patterns to use?

There are many instruction, diagram and techniques to create  crochet angels, what matters is to have a good knowledge of the stitch, read the pattern, use a suitable crochet hook. In this way your crochet project will be fine.

You can use crochet angels to decorate your Christmas tree, or as a placeholder and give it to your friends.

Artedelricamo offers you two angels crochet patterns, published in the blogs of our friends passionate of creative arts.

In the Blog Masycrochet is available the pattern of an elegant angel made with crochet white cotton.

Download the pattern

On the Blog Miva63crochet I found the pattern of this beautiful white angel.

Download the pattern

How to decorate my living room this year? Artedelricamo after the first and second guide of Free Christmas Tree Cross-stitch patterns propose you other free cross stitch patterns dedicated with a selection of beautiful Christmas trees to embroider on greeting cards, tea placemats and tablecloths.

On the Blog Lesgrillesdethiarlou is available a cross-stitch pattern with a Christmas tree ball.

On the Blog Mamou is available a cross-stitch pattern of a stylized Christmas tree, it is very special to stitch on linen for your home.

On the Blog Angiedesigner is available a free chart to do with different stitch – on counted thread embroidery.

On the Blog Secomohacer is available a free cross-stitch pattern with a Christmas tree usefull to decorate the laundry for your home.

On the Blog Vayou you can download the free cross-stitch pattern of a Christmas tree.

Cachounette propose you a series of christmas tree cross stitch patterns useful for decorating your laundry in your home.

This cross stitch pattern is dedicated to the children that are waiting for Chrustmas with joy. This pattern is very simple and useful to decorate individualtablecloth and greeting cards. The pattern is available for free on the Blog Croixdechristine.

On the Blog Il Mondo di Ezechiele is available a free Christmas cross stitch pattern with geometric borders very easy to do.

Are you looking for Christmas cross stitch patterns? Arte del Ricamo has selected for you the best Santa Claus free cross stitch patterns published by our embroidery friends. The Christmas cross stitch patterns proposed here below are very usefull to do Christmas Tree decorations, to adorn your home or give as gift to your friends.

Here is the Santa Claus cross-stitch pattern useful to decorate your individual tablecloth or the sweet bag and to create a picture. The free pattern is available on: www.craftandfabriclinks.com

On the Blog Fiestasnavidad is available a Santa Claus cross-stitch pattern useful to decorate your household linens during the holiday season.

On the Site Craftandfabriclinks is also available a free cross stitch pattern of Santa Claus holding a long list of gifts.

On the Blog Eliseteart are available many cross-stitch patterns of Santa Claus.

In this cross stitch pattern, Santa Claus with a bag full of toys. The free pattern is available on the Blog Pinkrosecrochet.

The cross-stitch pattern of Santa Claus Cross is useful for decorating the Christmas tree. The pattern is available free on the Blog Bellybordados .

On the Blog Bemparana you can download the cross stitch pattern of Santa Claus useful to do Christmas placeholder.

On the Blog Artesanato you can download the cross stitch pattern of Santa Claus useful to decorate your home linen.

On the Blog Artesanatossempre is available Santa Claus cross-stitch pattern useful to make decorations for your Christmas tree.

On the Blog Celia Pontocruz , Santa Claus playing basketball! The free cross stitch pattern is very useful to decorate household linens during the Christmas celebrations.

Are you looking for a Christmas crochet border design? On the site Coatscrafts I found a free pattern to make an elegant border to crochet filet.

You can use the border to decorate tablecloths, centerpiece and individual tablecloths. It’s a fantastic way to practice your creative abilities!

The materials to make a project are:

• crochet hook
• crochet cotton thread

You can choose to use Anchor crochet yarn gold or silver.

Download the Crochet Design and print it.

Ideas and Tips

Often the work is finished the crocheted lace has yellowed a bit ‘, you shouldn’t immediately wash the border but apply it directly onto the fabric. Once packaged the work you wash your work.

If the fabric to make the tablecloth is made of linen or Aida canvas you can embroider the work with motifs on the corners, sides and center of it.

Then apply your Christmas crochet border on the tablecloth!

Cross stitch passionate already know that it’s time to start embroidering linens for the home, Christmas gifts and accessories. Artedelricamo offers you the second part of the free Christmas cross-stitch patterns published in the blogs of our friends embroiderers.

On the Blog-mady P2X is available a free Christmas tree cross-stitch patterns with a monocromatic color to use.

The Blog Echevette offers you a small winter scene with cross stitch Christmas trees.

Lesgrillesdethiarlou provides for all who are passionate about cross-stitch, Christmas embroidery pattern with a stylized Christmas tree and cats.

On the Blog Thestitcherhood you can download the cross stitch pattern of a Christmas tree useful to decorate a greeting card, pillows for the living room of your home or place mats for the kitchen.

Carmela-broderies share with you a Christmas tree cross stitch pattern with stylized symbols of Christmas to do on holbein stitch and cross stitch.

If you chose to stitch a Christmas tree here is a  very original and stylized cross stitch free pattern available on the  blog bdcouture .

Lesgrillesdeliselotte provides for you a cross stitch pattern of a Christmas tree with green stars.

On the Blog kaligrilles you can download the Christmas cross stitch pattern with a Christmas tree and Christmas symbols, the pattern is very easy to do.

In the Blog Alarttex is available en embroidery pattern of a stylized Christmas tree to do on cross stitch.

On the Blog haft you can download a free cross stitch pattern of a very special Christmas tree useful to decorate the laundry in your home at Christmas time.

Did you think that the beautiful nightgowns with hand embroidered lace would remain for a long time in the trunk of your grandmother? Did you ever believe that girls of today would appreciate the old lace and embroidery adapted to the modern lingerie? To begin the revivel of the ancient Sicilian tradition of the hand  embroidery trousseau,  Dolce & Gabbana , the most famous Italian fashion designers, use the freshness of the fabrics and the softness of linens has focused on female tradition Sicilian offering baby doll with embroidered stitch and lace , chemises in gingham , muslin shorts and peau d’ange in macramé .

Decorate your house during the Christmas season with accessories and embroidered linen has become a tradiction.  Lists, centers and table linen, embroidered in gold and silver are the protagonists of the kitchen and living room.

Artedelricamo has posted here below a list of the best cross-stitch patterns present in the blogs of our friends embroidered with very simple and stylized christmas trees.

On the Blog-dmc threads there is a border of stylized Christmas trees by the colors red and green and edged with fine gold or silver thread embroidery.

On the Carmel-broderies Blog is available a cross-stitch pattern of a snow man with a Christmas tree and the auspicious word Joieux Noel.

The Blog-a-jour-une grille gives you a cross-stitch pattern with a wonderful Christmas tree well decorated with the colorful gifts under the tree.

A Christmas picture of cross-stitch available for free on the Blog chez-mamigoz . All surrounded by some blue and gold embroidered detail to give a touch of brightness at the Christmas tree.

On the Blog petitsoleils is available a free cross-stitch pattern of a stylized Christmas tree to decorate useful greeting cards.

Have you chosen to make a pillow using a Christmas cross-stitch embroidery pattern? Here’s an elegant Christmas tree to embroider on cross stitch and holbein stitch on a soft pillow for your living room sofa. The pattern is available free on the Blog Haft.blox .

The Blog lesgrillesdethiarlou you can download the cross stitch pattern of a Christmas tree use it to make pot holders and placemats to customize individual.

The Blog Matryoshkabiscornue is available in cross-stitch pattern of a Christmas tree stitched on aida blue monochrome. The pattern is very simple to do and you can use to make decorations for your Christmas tree.

A useful stylized Christmas tree to decorate placemats individual aida fabric. The pattern of embroidery is available on the Blog-plane-loisirs-de-steph .

Sylyne provides a framework for you to use it to make cross-stitch Christmas pot holders for the kitchen.

Are you looking for Christmas cross stitch patterns? Have you chosen to personalize your Christmas tree with cross-stitch projects? Here is a selection of free cross-stitch Christmas patterns.

The stylized Christmas balls to embroider with cross-stitch floss are useful in achieving the multi-colored medallions on aida fabric, in the back of a semi-rigid base of cardboard covered with silk or other satin fabrics and finished with twisted rope.

The pattern is available for free on the Blog Dancingvioletdesigns

Other free cross stitch patterns of Christmas balls are available for free in the Arte-Ricamo website. To download them you must be registered.

On the Blog cross-stitch-centre is available a cross-stitch pattern of a Christmas ball useful for decorating your laundry in your home.

Crossstitch.about.com provides for all who are passionate about cross stitch a pattern of a Christmas ball very simple and useful to decorate every corner of our house.

On the Blog crossmenot you can download the cross stitch pattern of a stylized Christmas ball useful to decorate Christmas cards and decorate the Christmas tree.

Aurelle shares with all who are passionate about cross-stitch embroidery a pattern of a Christmas card with a Christmas ball surrounded by stylized designs. The pattern to embroider on Aida canvas is useful to create an elegant greeting cards as gifts to friends and relatives.

On the Blog Echevette you can download the cross stitch pattern of a Christmas ball with the word Noel useful to decorate greeting cards and Christmas tree.

What is a biscornu? How to make a pincushion? A biscornu is a French adjective that means irregular in shape. The Blog French Word of the Day contains the explanation of the term biscornu:

Bis means ‘twice’, and cornu means ‘with horns’, ‘that which has an irregular form, with projections’, or ‘complicated and bizarre.

It is a small eight-sided pillow usually made out of Aida cloth or regular linen, you can use all embroidery stitches that you know to decorate and personalize the top and bottom of the small pillow.

Use a button to secure in the center of the pillow and to give a small depression on the top; you can also use beads to decorate the biscornu.The ideal size of a biscornu is between three to four inches, but can be smaller or bigger if using as a fob or decorative pillow respectively. A biscornu can be done using the technique of crochet, quilting or patchwork but the result is not like a counted thread.

Biscornus are very elegant and they are used by the embroiderer as holiday ornament, pincushion or cell phone decoration. They are popular items for stitchers to exchange in fact there are many biscornu exchanges arranged online through blogs, forums and social network.

Here below there is a biscornu guilde how to find tutorials and free patterns to make a biscornu.

In the wbsite Suite101 there is a very interesting guild with usefull instructions how to make a biscornu you can learn about:

• important things to consider in making a biscornu;

• materials needed to make a biscornu;

• general instructions and assemby a biscornu;

On the Blog  Prettyimpressivestuff you can discover the origins of biscornu and online examples like a free patterns of traditional bulgarian motifs to stitch on a biscornu.

The Blog Own-two-hands offers you a tutorial with images and pattern how to make a biscornu.

Free Cross Stitch Biscornu Patterns

If you are looking for cross stitch patterns to decorate your biscornu, Artedelricamo affers you a list with some links of free patterns online:

• Scissors Gold Biscornu

• Christmas Biscornu

• Floral-Geometric Biscornu

• ladybugs biscornu

Have you decided to cross-stitch the school apron for your child? Did you find a  cross-stitch alphabet pattern? If you are looking for an embroidery pattern with simple cross stitch letters, I suggest you to register now at www.arte ricamo.eu and visit the page dedicated to the free cross stitch patterns.

The cross-stitch alphabet shown in the picture above is available in the section “Cross Stitch Alphabet Patterns, where you’ll find a series of simple and complex scripts that could be useful to customize your children linen.

Here is a new design of embroidery sewing machine, the frog is useful to decorate linen for your children. The design is free in various formats.

Source: www.4by4embroidery.com

On Coatscraft is available a free cross stitch border to embroider on a children sheet. The pattern shows you a border with colorful flowers and nice bees.

Are you looking for free cross stitch patterns to decorate bibs for your child? On  Coatscraft is available a cross-stitch pattern of the dolls Sunbonnet Sue.

Are you looking for Halloween cross-stitch patterns? In addition to the cross stitch patterns of ghosts, Artedelricamo has selected for you some cross stitch patterns with Halloween pumpkins useful to decorate every corner of your home. You can embroider linens for the kitchen, for your living room and the bedroom of your children.

On Blogs Blisstree there is a simple cross-stitch pattern with a border of pumpkins to stitch on linen for the kitchen.

On Blogs Debidawn is available a cross-stitch pattern of a cat near a Halloween pumpkin. The pattern is useful to make a pocket trick or a pillow for your bedroom.

Miniatures.abaut.com offers you a cross-stitch pattern with one large and one small pumpkin and green leaves to embroider on a tablecloth or an individual tablecloth.

A small sampler with pumpkins to embroider on cross-stitch. The pattern is available free on the blog Aokcorral .

If you want to embroider something special, here is a Halloween cross-stitch pattern useful for decorating your laundry in your home.The pattern is available free on the blog Bythebayneedleart .

On the Blog Un Jour une Grille is available a cross stitch pattern of a Halloween pumpkin useful to decorate linen for the kitchen.

And here is a small cross-stitch border of Halloween. The embroidery pattern is available on the blog Thestitcherhood.

On Blogs Romyfrees you can download the cross stitch pattern dedicated to the month of October with a Halloween pumpkin useful to embroider the towels for your kitchen.

A cross-stitch embroidery doll at Halloween. The pattern is available free on the blog Carmela Broderies

On Blogs Thecrimsonmoon is available a cross-stitch pattern of a pumpkin with the word Halloween. The pattern can ‘be useful to make a pillow and decorate your home during the Halloween party.

Are ladybugs your favourite insects? Are you looking for something truly original to embroider on your children linen? Here is a brief guide to the best ladybug cross stitch patterns.

On the Blog of  Marian Esquemaspuntodecruz is available a cross-stitch pattern of a baby stroller shaped ladybug useful to decorate your children linen.

The Blog Better Cross Stitch Patterns offers you a cross-stitch pattern with a red heart that holds two small beetles. The pattern is ideal for decorating potholders for your kitchen.

Cross Me Not shares with all who are passionate about cross stitch a lucky ladybug to embroider a pincushion.

On the Blog of Gardengrumblesandcrossstitchfumbles you can download the free embroidery design of a ladybug useful to decorate the kitchen towels.

On the Blog of  lodijoella is available a cross-stitch pattern to make a biscornu with many ladybugs.

The Blog Monserami offers you an elegant heart with clover and ladybugs to embroider on cross stitch.

On the Blog Gufclub you can download a free cross stitch pattern of a ladybug useful to decorate your laundry in your home.

Here is a ladybug to embroider on cross-stitch and make an individual towel, a biscornu or cushion. Theembroidery pattern is available on the blog kikengrogne .

And here an other idea to decorate an individual Aida towel. The cross stitch pattern of ladybirds is available free on the blog Virtructrictroc .

On the Blog of Brigittegarderes is available a free cross stitch pattern with a grass border and in the middle a ladybug.

Are you looking for Hello Kitty crochet projects? You can create a lot of Hello Kitty toys and crochet accessory like bags and backpack. Artedelricamo has created for you a small guide that lets you find your favourite project very soon.

Madebyk-tutorials offers you the instructions to create Hello Kitty crochet squares. You can do scarfes, pillow and blankets.

Hello Kitty Crochet Bags

Knitting-and has created a crochet Hello Kitty bag red and black.

This is an Hello Kitty child’s backpack, the instructions are available on web.archive.

On the Blog Allcrafts there is a free project to do a crochet Hello Kitty bag for your kids.

Hello Kitty Crochet Toys

Knittersdelight-sarloz shares with you an Amigurumi project to do an Hello Kitty toy. This Japanese pattern that Sara has translated, has not been tested yet so there maybe errors. If you come across any errors in the pattern you can post a comment on her blog.

Arminas-aminals offers you a free Amigurumi pattern of Hello Kitty toy gor your children.  The project is very simple and the materials are: white yarn, pink yarn and a crochet hook.

Armina form the blog Arminas-animals share with all the passionate of art and craft  his love for crochet miniature. She made a little crochet basket with miniature balls of yarn and a mini knit project.

Do you want to decorate your home linens embroidering ghosts, pumpkins, bats and witches for Halloween? Artedelricamo has selected for you some cross-stitch patterns dedicated to Halloween . You can customize with a needle and colored threads individual placemats, pot holders, aprons, tea towels and pillows.

The patterns are very simple to do so you can also engage and encourage your children to embroider pictures, postcards, gift cards to your friends.

You can also embroider and cross stitch on Aida cloth bags of using the free embroidery patterns proposed below, to be used to offer sweets for Halloween.

Cross Stitch Embroidery provides for all fans of cross-stitch embroidery pattern of a cute ghost useful to decorate your home.

On the Blog of Cerato you can download the cross stitch pattern with a ghost of Halloween and a lots of pumpkins to embroidery on a individual tablecloth.

On the Blog of Hobbyloco there are some cross stitch patterns to embroidery on Aida fabric for Halloween,  with ghosts, pumpkins and bats. The embroidery patterns are available in black and white or color.

Dltk-holidays offers simple cross-stitch embroidery patterns for Halloween. The free charts were designed to be used by beginners for the first time he ventured into the wonderful art of cross stitch.

Here is a free Halloween cross-stitch pattern very useful and easy to stitch on a individual placemat. The free cross stitch ghost with pumpkin is available for free on Blogs Bevscountrycottage .

On the Blog Free-cross-stitch.rucniprace.cz is available a free cross stitch pattern of a ghost, the free pattern is very simple to do. The colors of the pattern are black, gray and dark gray for the body.

Ptits-points-alexflo offers you a cross stitch pattern of a ghost useful to decorate cards and postcards for Halloween.

On the Blog Ludivineuh you can download free cross stitch pattern of a ghost useful to make a pretty picture hanging on the walls of your house for Halloween.

Freepatternsonline offers you a simple cross-stitch embroidery pattern dedicated to Halloween with a ghost who can help you to customize postcards and little bags to distribute to your friends.

And here is a colorful cross-stitch embroidery pattern dedicated to Halloween with a cute ghost useful to make a picture hanging on the wall of your bedroom. The pattern is available free on the Blog Freepatternsonline .

Are you looking for a free program that allows you to create cross-stitch embroidery patterns? Are you using the Linux operating system? KXStitch is an open source application that allows you to create cross stitch patterns and charts. You can create patterns from scratch on a user defined size of grid, which can be enlarged or reduced in size as your pattern progresses.

You can produce cross stitch patterns importing images from many graphics formats or scan images. You may also use an image as a background. You can import images and modify the images using the supplied tools to produce your final design.

When your ready, you can print out your design in several formats. There are options to print out cover sheets, instructions and a floss key including amount of thread used and number of stitches.

Source: sourceforge.net