For the Love of the Granny Stitch: Easy Crochet Hat Pattern

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I left my hat on the train the other day. The family and I were coming back from an event downtown. It was late, we were tired, and I took my hat off right before I closed my eyes for a train ride snooze session. When I woke up at our stop, I had completely forgotten that I had removed my hat. I didn’t realize that I wasn’t wearing it until we were already on our way home from the train station. By then, the train had moved on to the next stop, and my beautiful crochet hat was riding the rails all alone. After I was done being mad at myself, I pulled out my phone and took to the Internet in search of an easy crochet hat pattern.

I fell in love with this easy crochet hat pattern when I first laid eyes on it. It’s beautiful, stylish, and uses the granny stitch to create a hat that is comfy, cozy, and eye-catching. The best part is, this easy crochet hat can be whipped up in no time! With work kicking into high gear after the holidays, I don’t have the time I’d like for making a detailed and intricate piece for my head. This easy crochet hat pattern takes my time into consideration and still makes something that I’m absolutely thrilled about wearing out and about on our next trip downtown. I’ll make a note to put my hat in my pocket the next time that I decide to take it off. 

For the Love of the Granny Stitch Easy Crochet Hat Pattern

You’ll Love This Easy Crochet Hat Pattern

By Katy Petersen for redheart.com

 

MATERIALS

  • RED HEART® Grande™: 1 ball each of 3927 Chianti A and 941 Barley B
  • Susan Bates® Crochet Hook: 11.5mm [US P-16]
  • Yarn needle

GAUGE: 6 dc = 4½” (11.5 cm); 4 rows = 4″ (10 cm)

Finished Size: Hat measures 20 (22½)” [51 (57) cm] circumference at brim.

 

NOTES

  1. Easy Crochet Hat is worked in joined rounds with right side facing.
  2. To change color, work last stitch of old color to last yarn over. Yarn over with new color and draw through all loops on hook to complete stitch. Proceed with new color. Cut old color.

 

Special Technique

Adjustable-ring method = Wrap yarn into a ring, ensuring that the tail falls behind the working yarn. Grip ring and tail firmly between middle finger and thumb. Insert hook through center of ring, yarn over (with working yarn) and draw up a loop. Work stitches of first round in ring, working over both strands (the tail and the ring). After the first round of stitches is worked, pull gently, but firmly, on tail to tighten ring.

 

DIRECTIONS
Directions for this easy crochet hat pattern make a size small. Changes for size large are in parentheses.

 

 

HAT
With A, make an adjustable ring.

Round 1: Ch 3 (counts as first dc here and throughout), 8 (9) dc in ring; join with slip st in top of beginning ch—9 (10) dc. Pull gently on tail to close ring.

Round 2: Ch 3, dc in same st as join, 2 dc in each dc around; join with slip st in top of beginning ch—18 (20) dc.

Round 3: Ch 3, 2 dc in next dc, *dc in next dc, 2 dc in next dc; repeat from * around; join with slip st in top of beginning ch; change to B—27 (30) dc.

 

Size Small Only:
Round 4: Ch 3, dc in same st as join, skip next dc, *2 dc in next dc, skip next dc; repeat from * around to last dc, dc in last dc; join with slip st in top of beginning ch—13 two-dc groups and 1 dc.

Rounds 5 and 6: Slip st in next dc, slip st in space before next 2-dc group, ch 3, dc in same space, *2 dc in next space between 2-dc groups; repeat from * 11 times, 2 dc in space before last dc, dc in space between last dc and beginning ch; join with slip st in top of beginning ch.

Round 7: Slip st in next dc; change to A, slip st in space before next 2-dc group, ch 3, dc in same space, *2 dc in next space between 2-dc groups; repeat from * 11 times, 2 dc in space before last dc, dc in space between last dc and beginning ch; join with slip st in top of beginning ch. Fasten off.

 

Size Large Only:
Round 4: Ch 3, dc in same st as join, skip next dc, *2 dc in next dc, skip next dc; repeat from * around; join with slip st in top of beginning ch—15 two-2 dc groups.

Rounds 5–7: Slip st in next dc, slip st in space before next 2-dc group, ch 3, dc in same space, 2 dc in each space between 2-dc groups around; join with slip st in top of beginning ch.

Round 8: Slip st in next dc; change to A, slip st in space before next 2-dc group, ch 3, dc in same space, 2 dc in each space between 2-dc groups around; join with slip st in top of beginning ch. Fasten off.

 

FINISHING
Weave in all ends.

 

ABBREVIATIONS
A, B = Color A, Color B; ch = chain(s); dc = double crochet; st(s) = stitch(es); * = repeat whatever follows the * as indicated

I’m always on the lookout for more fantastic hats! What are some of your favorite winter hats to crochet?

Adorable Granny Square Crochet Scarf Pattern

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When it comes to crochet, I simply can’t get enough granny square patterns. I love them. Granny squares are the perfect way to add unique designs to virtually any crochet project. With the right colors, they can make your project decadent and elegant or stylish and kitschy, which makes them incredibly useful and versatile. While most crafters tend to use granny squares for afghans, I like to experiment. It’s fun to see how many different projects you can use them with.

I recently discovered this Adorable Granny Square Crochet Scarf Pattern, and it incorporates a new granny square design in a phenomenal way. With this pattern, the granny square is used to build a crochet scarf that’s beautiful and very eye-catching. The scarf is so ornate that you would think it was made by a leading fashion designer. That’s the beauty of it. Even more beautiful is the fact that this crochet scarf pattern is easy to duplicate. With just a handful of materials, you could use this crochet scarf pattern to make a piece so stunning that you’ll have family and friends asking you where you bought that magnificent scarf.

Adorable Granny Square Crochet Scarf Pattern

You’ll Love This Granny Square Crochet Scarf Pattern

By Heather Lodinsky for redheart.com

 

MATERIALS

  • RED HEART® Super Saver®: 1 skein each of 312 Black A, 313 Aran B, 334 Buff C, 336 Warm Brown D, 360 Café Latte E, and 378 Claret F
  • Susan Bates® Crochet Hook: 6mm [US J-10]
  • Yarn needle

 

GAUGE:  One granny square measures about 6½ x 6½” [16.5 x 16.5 cm].

Finished Size: Scarf measures about 6½” [16.5 cm] wide and 74″ [188 cm] long, not including fringe.

 

NOTES

  1. Crochet scarf pattern is made from 11 granny squares, arranged into a strip and sewn together.
  2. Each granny square is worked in joined rounds with right side always facing. The yarn color is changed every round (except the last round) by fastening off the old color and joining the new color.

 

DIRECTIONS

GRANNY SQUARE I (make 2)

With A, ch 5; join with slip st in first ch to form a ring.

Round 1 (right side): Ch 3 (counts as dc here and throughout), work 11 dc in ring; join with slip st in top of beginning ch- 3—12 dc. Fasten off.

Round 2: With right side facing, draw up a loop of E in any space between sts, ch 3, dc in same space, *ch 1, 2 dc in next space between sts; repeat from * around, ch 1; join wth slip st in top of beginning ch-3—24 dc and 12 ch-1 spaces. Fasten off.

Round 3: With right side facing, draw up a loop of F in any ch-1 space, ch 3, 2 dc in same ch-1 space, *ch 1, 3 dc in next ch-1 space; repeat from * around, ch 1; join with slip st in top of beginning ch- 3—36 dc and 12 ch-1 spaces. Fasten off.

Round 4: With right side facing, draw up a loop of C in any ch-1 space, ch 3, 2 dc in same ch-1 space, *ch 2, 3 dc in next ch-1 space; repeat from * around, ch 2; join with slip st in top of beginning ch- 3—36 dc and 12 ch-2 spaces. Fasten off.

Round 5: With right side facing, draw up a loop of B in any ch-2 space, ch 3, 3 dc in same ch-2 space, ch 1, 4 dc in next ch-2 space, *ch 1, (2 dc, 2 tr, ch 2, 2 tr, 2 dc) in next ch-2 space (corner made), [ch 1, 4 dc in next ch-2 space] twice; repeat from * 2 more times, ch 1, (2 dc, 2 tr, ch 2, 2 tr, 2 dc) in next ch-2 space, ch 1; join with slip st in top of beginning ch-3—4 corners with two 4-dc groups along each of 4 sides between corners. Fasten off.

Round 6: With right side facing, join A with slip st in any corner ch-2 space, *[skip next st, sc in next 3 sts, sc in next ch-1 space] 3 times, skip next st, sc in next 3 sts, 3 sc in corner ch-2 space; repeat from * 3 more times; join with slip st in first sc—72 sc (15 sc along each of 4 sides between 3-sc corners). Do not fasten off.

Round 7: Continuing with A, ch 1, *sc in each st to next 3-sc corner, 2 sc in each of next 3 sc; repeat from * 3 more times; join with slip st in first sc—84 sc. Fasten off.

 

GRANNY SQUARE II (make 2)

Make same as Granny Square I using B for Round 1, F for Round 2, A for Round 3, E for Round 4, C for Round 5, and A for Rounds 6 and 7.

 

GRANNY SQUARE III (make 2)

Make same as Granny Square I using C for Round 1, D for Round 2, E for Round 3, F for Round 4, B for Round 5, and A for Rounds 6 and 7.

 

GRANNY SQUARE IV (make 2)

Make same as Granny Square I using D for Round 1, A for Round 2, B for Round 3, C for Round 4, F for Round 5, and A for Rounds 6 and 7.

 

GRANNY SQUARE V (make 2)

Make same as Granny Square I using E for Round 1, B for Round 2, F for Round 3, A for Round 4, D for Round 5, and A for Rounds 6 and 7.

 

GRANNY SQUARE VI (make 1)

Make same as Granny Square I using F for Round 1, C for Round 2, B for Round 3, D for Round 4, E for Round 5, and A for Rounds 6 and 7.

 

FINISHING

Arrange the Granny Squares into a strip, in any order desired. With A, sew the squares together.

 

Fringe

Cut lengths of A, B, C, D, E, and F, each about 24″ [61 cm] long. Holding 1 strand of each color together, fold lengths in half. Using crochet hook, pull fold through any stitch of one short edge of scarf, forming a loop. Thread ends through loop and pull to tighten. Attach a total of 7 fringes evenly spaced along both short ends of scarf. Trim fringe to even. Weave in ends.

 

 

ABBREVIATIONS

A, B, C, etc. = Color A, Color B, Color C etc; ch = chain; dc = double crochet; sc = single crochet; st(s) = stitch(es); ( ) = work directions in parentheses into same st; [ ] = work directions in brackets the number of times specified; * = repeat whatever follows the * as indicated.

Looking for more amazing crochet scarf patterns? Check out 25 Crochet Scarf Patterns.

I’ve shown you one of my favorite granny square projects. What’s your favorite way to use the granny square?

“Cowl” us Crazy! 12 Knit and Crochet Patterns

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Just “cowl” us crazy! It’s that time to start making your winter accessories. It’s never too early to start because you want to be prepared for the cold winter weather with all the cozy accessories to keep you warm. One of our favorite cold weather accessories is a warm cowl. Whether you knit or crochet (or both!), these are the latest free patterns you have to see.

“Cowl” us Crazy! 12 Knit and Crochet Patterns

Browse this collection of cowl patterns, and you might discover a new favorite crochet cowl pattern or knitting pattern. Long story short, after you make yourself one of these beautiful patterns, you’ll be wanting to make some more! Stitch up any of these patterns as the perfect DIY gifts for the holidays. They’re so much more special and unique than what you can buy in stores and everyone can always use a new cowl.

In the fall, pair these cowls with your favorite top or light sweater to fight off the chill. Then, when winter comes along, pair them with your most cozy sweater and stay warm all season long. Create one of these knit or easy crochet patterns in the color of the season: marsala. Whether it’s a rich plum or deep burgundy hue, it’s sure to make a statement!

 

“Cowl” us Crazy! 12 Knit and Crochet Patterns

 

Woodland Nightfall Knit SnoodFree Knitting Patterns

Winter Seeds Cowl

Woodland Nightfall Knit Snood

Lilac Dream Knit Cowl

Sparkle Lacy Knit Cowl

 [break]

Back to Scotland Crochet CowlFree Crochet Patterns

Kiss Me At Midnight Cowl

Back to Scotland Crochet Cowl

Diamond Crochet Cowl

All Grown Up Crochet Cowl

 [break]

Plum Easy Crochet CowlOne Skein Wonders

Purple Passion Knit Cowl Pattern

Crooked Creek Cowl

Plum Easy Crochet Cowl

Chunky Crochet Cowl

 

What color yarn will you use to make your cowl?

 

 

3 Tips for Crocheting an Adorable, Customized Baby Shower Gift!

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I’m Marie Segares from Underground Crafter. I’ve mentioned before that I love crocheting baby projects, and I’ve recently shared two free blanket patterns on FaveCrafts.

Now, I keep a little stash of ready-made crochet baby blankets for last minute gifts, but once in a while, I want to make something very special to welcome the newborn of a dear friend or family member. Here are 3 tips I follow for crocheting customized gifts that will thrill your favorite parents-to-be.

Carefully choose colors

One of the easiest ways to customize a crocheted baby gift is by selecting the color of your yarns to match – or contrast – colors in the nursery. Many parents today use non-traditional colors, so rather than choosing plain white, yellow, pale pink, or baby blue yarns, find yarns that fit with the decor of the nursery.

You can find out about the nursery colors by looking through the online baby registry. Another great place to get a “sneak peak” of the nursery decor is on social media. If one (or both) of the parents are on Facebook or Instagram, you may find pictures of a painted room, or with some sleuthing on Pinterest, you can find a board with nursery ideas. And, of course, you can always ask!

Add letters or names

If the parents have already named the baby, you may want to add a crocheted, embroidered, or “monogram” name to your project.

The Stitchy Gift Tags free crochet pattern includes a tutorial for using the backstitch to add words to your completed crochet projects.

Basic Crochet Square, free crochet pattern by Olivia from Hopeful Honey on FaveCrafts.

Basic Crochet Square, free crochet pattern by Olivia from Hopeful Honey on FaveCrafts.

Another option is to use graph paper to chart out the letters of a baby’s name in blocks for a crochet granny square blanket. Choose a one-color granny square pattern, like the free Basic Crochet Square, and “spell” out the name with squares in a contrasting color yarn.

Make a layette

For a truly special gift, go beyond one project and make a layette set including a blanket as well as a jacket, cap or bonnet, booties, diaper cover, and/or a hooded towel. I love to include a set of baby washcloths in organic cotton yarn, too.

Circle Hexagon, free #crochet pattern by @ucrafter

The Circle Hexagon makes a great baby washcloth. The free pattern is available here on the Underground Crafter blog.

Choose your favorite patterns to mix and match into a great set. If you keep the color scheme consistent, the layette will look coordinated!

What are your favorite tips for crocheting baby shower gifts?

Cozy Winter Crochet Patterns To Keep You Warm

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Tis the season to be cold. The temperatures are steadily dropping and that cold winter chill is settling in. In addition to heavy coats, it’s time to grab gloves, mittens and hats before you head out the door. Instead of spending money on poorly made winter wearables, stay home and crochet yourself something fabulous. Most of these patterns are quick to make and easy enough for beginners. Even the more complicated patterns won’t take all season, so you can create your piece and then wear it before the season comes to an end.

You know what else you can do with winter wearables? Give them as holiday gifts! The Christmas season is just around the corner, so you want to make sure you have some quality gifts to give your loved ones. These winter crochet patterns are both cute and practical, so you don’t have to wonder if the recipient will actually use what you give them.

Don’t wait! Every minute you waste NOT crocheting is a minute you’ll spend feeling cold and quite possibly numb out in the cold.

 

Ear Warmer Crochet Pattern

Cozy Winter Headband – How cute is this chunky winter headband? Don’t neglect your ears (or mess up your hair) when you head outside. This quick pattern is perfect for a car or train ride.

Fuzzy Pouf Ear Muffs – If you like a more traditional look, consider a pair of ear muffs. The vintage look and textured feel is unlike anything you’ve ever seen.

Simple Crochet Ear Warmer – The name says it all – this winter crochet pattern takes almost no time to make. If you’re new to the world of crochet, this is the perfect project. Test your skills and practice what you’ve learned so you can proceed to more complicated patterns later on.

Twist of Fate Headband – The twisted head wrap look of this pattern is so trendy right now. The focal point is the front rather than the side of your head, giving it a bohemian look and feel. The thick texture makes this extra warm and cozy.

 

Free Mitten Patterns

Colorful Texting Gloves – Texting gloves are one of the most genius inventions of the new millennium (in my opinion at least). Now you can dash off a text or e-mail while keeping your fingers warm and toasty.

Elizabeth Bennet’s Lacy Hand Warmers – Lizzie Bennet would surely approve of these delightful hand warmers. Catch your own Mr. Darcy with this delightful design.

Easy Fingerless Gloves – Fingerless gloves are a great option if you need to turn pages or apply lip gloss. Keep your palms warm while performing every day tasks – it’s the best of both worlds.

Chunky Crochet Mittens and Scarf – This yummy set makes a great gift. The warm mittens and fuzzy scarf can be worn together or separate – it’s up to you. No matter what, you know you won’t be cold.

 

Free Scarf Patterns

Sea Foam Infinity Scarf – Take a trip to the beach without leaving your home (or booking a plane ticket). Evoke the look and feel of the ocean with the bright color and soft wavy texture of the scarf.

Forever 21 Knockoff Scarf – Whether you are 21 or 121, you’ll go gaga for this simple scarf pattern. The single color and easy stitch make this ideal for a new crocheter.

One Skein Asymmetry Scarf – Got one skein? Well we have a fantastic pattern for you to enjoy. This is one of the most popular patterns with our readers, and we can certainly understand why.

Soft and Easy Alpaca Scarf – Alpaca is one of the best fibers for yarn – it’s so soft! You won’t be able to stop touching this scarf, so prepare accordingly!

 

Crochet Cowl Pattern

Crochet Convertible Cowl – Scarf or hoodie? Now you don’t have to pick! This is a quick and easy pattern that beginners will love. Since you don’t have to change colors, you won’t need to purchase a ton of yarn.

Bright Red Shimmer Cowl – Make a bold statement with this little cowl. If you’re heading to a holiday party, be sure to top your outfit with this fun winter crochet pattern.

Crimson Ridge Cowl – Who doesn’t look elegant in red? This is a great gift idea for women who like to make an entrance. This is also a great option for people who don’t like to wear constricting circle scarves.

Crochet Cowl Hood – This beautiful pattern is super trendy. The understated look and color makes this an age-appropriate delight that will last all winter long.

 

 

What’s your favorite way to stay warm?

 

Announcing More Crochet Patterns: I Like Crochet

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i-like-crochet-cover-august-2014Our friends at AllFreeCrochet have some exciting news to share with you all – the launch of a brand new digital magazine, I Like Crochet!

I Like Crochet is a bimonthly subscription-based magazine that promises to give you the newest and best crochet patterns that you won’t find anywhere else. Each issue includes 25-30 projects that range from wearables and accessories to afghans and other home decor. It also offers articles that showcase tips, tricks and step-by-step tutorials.

You can access this subscription on your home computer or laptop, or you have the option of getting a tablet-only edition (iPad only, currently). Take I Like Crochet with you wherever you go and never miss a stitch!

As for the selected patterns, have I mentioned how stunning they are? Take a look at the Mint Breeze Cardigan, as featured on the cover of our August launch issue. A simple half-sleeve button-up cardigan, this sweater is perfect to protect you against the unexpected chill of those long summer nights. The lace inserts worked all over the body and sleeves of the cardigan make this lightweight sweater the only one you’ll need this season.

crochet-little-rose-bootiesMaybe cardigans are a little too tricky for you – no worries! I Like Crochet also features many beginner and easy crochet patterns that will have you working up accessories in no time. Do you want to crochet the most adorable little baby booties you’ve ever seen? You just have to make these darling Little Rose Booties that are perfect for keeping little feet warm. Their small size ensures a quick work-up time, but the intricate flower detail makes them simply divine.

crochet-carribean-shells-afghanIf you’re more interested in afghans and babyghans, we’ve got you covered, too! Take a look at the Caribbean Shells Afghan in our launch issue; its pastel striped pattern evokes a calming Caribbean environment. Brighten up any room with this easy-to-make afghan. The pattern repetition means less to learn, so it’s perfect for a beginner.

Another exciting feature of I Like Crochet is our Stitch School, a bimonthly tutorial and pattern feature. Step-by-step instructions, both written and photo-illustrated, will walk you through a new or challenging stitch or technique. Once you learn the basics, put your new skills to the test and stitch a great design that features what you just learned.

Join us at I Like Crochet for all your crochet needs – subscribe today!

What’s the first thing you’ll make when you subscribe?

Clothing Kids will Love: 14 Patterns + Giveaway!

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Kids of all ages are always growing out of their clothes…and it can be expensive to try to keep up with their changing bodies; however, crafty moms know that the secret to saving money when it comes to kids clothes is to simply make them yourself!

The great thing about crocheting kids clothes is that they’re often small in size, so they don’t require a ton of yarn and you can easily work up a sweater, scarf, or shawl in a weekend.  Handmade clothes are often more durable and are sure to last longer than store-bought items.  Plus these handmade sweaters, dresses, and scarves will be all the more meaningful to the kids because YOU made them!

Get your crocheting started with this adorable Pee Wee Coat.  Great for little toddlers, this precious crocheted pea coat is wonderful for keeping your little one nice and warm in the winter and fall.  Once the warmer weather rolls around, try your hand at crocheting this Lemon Drop Dress.  Perfect for little girls who love to play in the sunshine, this crocheted dress is a must for those who have little ladies playing around the house.

With lots of projects for little girls and boys, this collection of 14 Crochet Patterns for Kids is sure to inspire you to start creating handmade clothes for your children.

BONUS!  Looking for even MORE ways to update your children’s wardrobe?  Scroll on down to find 28 more crochet patterns that are perfect for kids of all ages!

cool-crochet-for-kids

14 Crochet Patterns for Kids

 

BONUS!  We’re giving away a book filled with 28 awesome crochet patterns that kids of all ages are sure to love!  Head on over to the giveaway page now and register to win Crocheting Clothes Kids Love, a great book filled with colorful crochet patterns for little girls and boys.  You better hurry, though…the contest ends May 2nd!  Enter to win this awesome book today!

Love free stuff?  Check out our other weekly giveaways, going on now!

Game of Thrones Crafts Are Coming…

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Since the first episode of Game of Thrones aired,  I quickly became obsessed with the show. As many of my fellow GOT-enthusiasts can understand, I have suffered through massive losses at the hands of the (genius) writers, yet still keep coming back for more. Like every other Game of Thrones fan, I have a hard time choosing a favorite character, for fear of losing them. That’s why I have decided that commemorating each House is the only way to deal with the inevitable loss we will see this season. Over at AllFreeHolidayCrafts.com we’ve rustled up some pretty amazing ideas.

GOT-Collage

Take your time, choose your house, and get started on a few of these handmade ideas that will have you either screaming, “Dracarys!”, warning that winter is coming, or lying through your teeth (Cough, cough, Lannisters, ahem).

 

House Targaryen
    “Dracarys!”

Dragon Eggs Dragons are perhaps the most exciting part of Game of Thrones, making Daenerys Targaryen a popular favorite. The crafts below are inspired by House Targaryen, in many different ways. Embrace Khaleesi’s fashion sense, and make your very own set of Dragon Eggs – what could be cooler than that?

  1. Dany’s Dragon Eggs
  2. Drogon the Dragon Hat
  3. Dragon Skin Scarf
  4. Khaleesi’s Beaded Headdress
  5. Map of Westeros

 

House Stark
   “Winter is Coming.”

Mystic Forest Shawl The Stark family is known for their unyielding honor, which some would say has cost them over the past 3 seasons. Celebrate the most honorable House from Westeros with the tutorials below. Inspired by Winterfell fashion and the Stark dire wolves, these crafts are for winter warriors only.

  1. Red Wedding Veil
  2. Fuzzy Wolf Bonnet
  3. Style Your Hair Like Sansa
  4. Enchanted Godswood Fashion Cape
  5. Winter is Coming Banner
  6. Mystic Forest Shawl

 

House Lannister
    “A Lannister always pays his debts.”

Golden Goddess GownA Lannister may always pay his debts, but we wouldn’t mind saving ourselves from any interaction with them at all. This deceitful House of Westeros may be on top for now, but hopeful fans like myself are ready for revenge. (The North Remembers!) We do have to hand it to the capitol dwellers when it comes to fashion; Cersei’s attire is always enviable.

  1. Cersei’s Knit Cape
  2. Lion Baby Booties
  3. Merlot Hooded Cape
  4. DIY Body Chain
  5. Golden Goddess Gown

 

 

Which House would you align yourself with?

“Frozen” Fever: DIY Costumes, Homemade Party Decorations, and More

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The results are in: Frozen is a winner! In addition to snagging the Oscars for Best Original Song and Best Animated Film, Disney’s latest release has officially become the highest-grossing animated movie of all time. If you’ve seen this heartwarming film, you can probably guess why. It’s gorgeously animated, laugh-out-loud funny, and features some of the greatest original music I’ve heard in years.

Kids aren’t the only ones who adore the movie, either. Grown-ups are getting into the action with birthday parties and even weddings inspired by the film. The good news for those of us on a budget is that crafters the world over have been hit with Frozen fever. From DIY costumes, homemade decorations, kid-friendly snacks, and DIY party favors, crafters have rallied to give you all the tools you need to create your own Frozen-inspired party.

Playing Dress-Up: DIY Costumes

The Elsa DressOne of the most breathtaking scenes in Frozen is when Elsa trades her royal garb for a radiant dress made of ice and snowflakes. You can recreate this look with a simple sewing pattern. A circle skirt and basic bodice come together to create a sweet dress that’s fit for a princess. Add more rhinestones to the bodice, and The Elsa Dress will really sparkle.

Pair this stunning dress with a free printable pattern for Elsa’s crown. If you have a little prince who wants a costume of his own, there are lots of options for him, too. This DIY Kristoff costume is absolutely darling. if he’d rather pretend to be Kristoff’s furry friend Sven, you can use this free printable template for antlers instead. And I can’t leave out everyone’s favorite snowman! Check out this tutorial for DIY Olaf shirts that the whole family can wear.

 

 Set the Scene: Homemade Party Decorations

Lacy Snowflake PatternEven in the middle of spring there are ways to turn your home into a winter wonderland. These DIY decorations for your Frozen party will make your home look super cool–pun intended. The Lacy Snowflake Pattern pictured at right is an intermediate crochet pattern that looks great with a glittery finish. One of our favorite crochet projects for winter is the Snowflake Cookie. A batch of these cookies is all sweet and no sugar.

For those of us who like to use a needle and thread, there’s a pretty Icicle Lights Quilting Pattern that you can whip up in a matter of hours. Hang it on your wall to create a winter scene without the frigid temperatures.

There are plenty of ideas for outdoor decorations, too. These magical Fire and Ice Lanterns will last through a chilly evening. If you’re looking for a cute project, take a peek at this tutorial on how to create Heart Ice Art. It goes along perfectly with the frozen heart theme from the movie.

 

Frigid Fun: Party Games & Activities

Amazing Ice PaintingAs Grandpabbie the troll explains, there is great beauty in ice magic. Show your kids how to make some magic of their own with this Amazing Ice Painting, pictured at left. For a fun (and funny!) activity, try this delightful “Pin the Nose on Olaf” tutorial. There are also tons of activities that will bring back memories of your elementary school days, like these instructions for pretty paper snowflakes. You can recycle paper scraps into festive snowflake embellishments, like these Snow Flurry Scrapbusters.

 

Scrumptious Snacks and Enchanting FavorsSnowball Cookies

Don’t be afraid to revisit some of  your favorite Christmas cookie recipes to fill out your party snack table. These Snowball Cookies are dusted with powdered sugar, calling to mind the snowy landscape from the film. Best of all, they pack a punch of flavor. Combine savory and sweet with Sven’s Snack Mix which includes pretzels, M&Ms, and more. You can also stick to the blue and white color scheme of the movie with these White Chocolate Popcorn Snowballs.

Give your guests a piece of the festivities to take home with them. They can build their own snowmen out of marshmallows and pretzels by following this tutorial. It comes with a free printable tag. For an even funnier touch, try this craft that was inspired by Olaf’s famous “I’ve been impaled” line in the film. This free printable can be paired with a lollipop or a pretty pencil.

 

Do you wanna build a snowman?

 

 

How to Crochet: 9 Easy Crochet Projects for Kids

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Crocheted Heart Wall HangingDon’t believe anyone if they tell you crocheting isn’t cool! Take it from me; as a yarn skeptic, I wasn’t convinced that I could ever enjoy crochet. Recently, though, I was proved wrong.

In our office, we took a class together so we could learn how to crochet. I thought I would struggle through the class, since I tend to mess up any kind of craft that involves weaving, sewing, embroidery…really anything that doesn’t involve paint or clay. But to my surprise, I made the starting chain with ease, and quickly picked up on the basic crochet stitch we’d be using to make our dish cloths. In minutes, I was crocheting faster than the speed of light!

Okay, I might be exaggerating a little. But watching my hands create something I never thought I could do was just so exciting. I caught myself daydreaming about improving my skills to the point where I could make all of my Christmas gifts from crochet projects.

Learning to crochet is easier than you might think. After all, if I had a blast accomplishing a simple little dish cloth, just imagine how much fun you’ll have trying the easy crochet projects on this list. These beginner crochet patterns are the perfect way to get kids hooked on crochet. You might just have a crochet expert in your house before you know it!

Free Crochet Patterns for Kids

Simple Crochet HeartCrochet Flower HeadbandCrochet an ACrocheted Heart Wall HangingFantastic Crocheted Mustache

Every one of these adorable crochet projects is easy for kids and teens to make. Try them all!

 

Learn to Crochet Online ClassIf I still haven’t convinced you that you can crochet with confidence, you can always try taking a crochet class. And have I got the perfect class for you! Annie’s Crafts runs incredible online video tutorials that will teach you just about any crafting trade, and AllFreeKidsCrafts is currently giving away free access to the Learn to Crochet Class! You’ll be able to follow along with the video and practice the essential crochet stitches you’ll need to churn out five pretty projects. Our giveaway ends on November 9, 2013 at 11:59:59 p.m. Eastern Time, so make sure you enter today for your chance to win!

What do you want to crochet?