Techniques
Amigurumi Tips for Beginners: Fix Gaps, Lumpy Stuffing and Wonky Faces
Stuffing showing through, holes at decreases, lumpy shapes and crooked faces are the most common amigurumi problems. Here is how to fix each one.
· 3 min read
The journal
Stories, tips & ideas
Practical crochet tips, yarn know-how, seasonal inspiration and thoughtfully curated pattern roundups.
Beginner Guides
Crochet vs Knitting: Which Is Easier to Learn?
Crochet and knitting both turn yarn into fabric, but they feel very different to learn. Compare tools, speed, fabric and first projects to choose the right craft for you.
· 2 min read
Seasonal
Easy Halloween Crochet Ideas: Pumpkin, Ghost and Bat
Three quick, cute Halloween crochet patterns and six ways to use them: a pumpkin patch, a ghost and bat garland, party table decor and more.
· 2 min read
Beginner Guides
How Long Does It Take to Crochet a Blanket?
Rough hours for baby blankets and throws in chunky yarn, worsted-weight stitches and granny squares, plus a simple way to time yourself and estimate your own blanket.
· 2 min read
Techniques
How to Block Crochet: Wet, Spray and Steam Blocking
Blocking evens out stitches, straightens edges and makes granny squares match. Here is how to wet, spray and steam block crochet, and which method suits each fiber.
· 2 min read
Techniques
How to Join Granny Squares: 4 Easy Methods
Four beginner-friendly ways to join granny squares into a blanket: whipstitch, slip stitch, single crochet and join-as-you-go, with tips for flat seams and matching corners.
· 3 min read
Crochet Tips
How to Make a Pompom for a Crochet Hat (With or Without a Maker)
Make a full, round yarn pompom for a bobble hat with cardboard rings, a pompom maker or even a fork, then tie it on so it stays put.
· 3 min read
Crochet Tips
How to Wash Crochet Items So They Last
How to wash crochet blankets, hats, dishcloths and amigurumi by hand or in the machine, dry them without stretching, store them safely and deal with pilling.
· 2 min read
Pattern Roundups
7 Easy Crochet Patterns for Your First Month
Seven beginner-friendly free patterns, in a sensible order, with notes on what each one teaches — from a first scarf to a tiny amigurumi bee.
· 2 min read
Yarn
Cotton vs Acrylic Yarn for Amigurumi: Which Should You Choose?
Cotton and acrylic are two of the most popular yarns for amigurumi. Here is how they compare for stitch definition, softness, durability and safety.
· 1 min read
Seasonal
Cozy Autumn Crochet Projects to Start This Weekend
Three warm, satisfying free patterns for cooler days — a chunky blanket, a classic scarf and a quick baby beanie — plus ideas for autumn colors and yarn.
· 1 min read
Crochet Tips
Why Your Crochet Tension Changes (and How to Even It Out)
Rows that start tight and end loose? Squares that never quite match? Here is why crochet tension drifts, how to spot it early and practical ways to keep it steady.
· 2 min read