The Boucan Stitch Pattern.

Welcome to the Boucan Stitch, also know as Interlocking Blocks or Grid Stitch. No more cutting off yarn at the end of each row, therefore less tail ends to weave in later.

2 patterns that are worked in horizontal stripes using 3 colours. Pattern No 1 is worked using 3 tr (US:dc) & pattern No 2 is worked using 2 tr (US: dc).

The colour change is at end of each row by dropping the working colour & carrying up & bringing in the new colour in the last 2 loops of last stitch, therefore no need to cut off yarn at each end. 

I find this technique neat enough to eliminate edging, but this is a personal choice. If you prefer to edge, there is no reason why you can’t, just remember to keep the same stitch count for each 4 sides.

The Boucan Stitch produces a thick, denser fabric. Work in your own yarn of choice & appropriate hook. This is your project, experiment with colours & yarn & have fun.

The Boucan Stitch patterns are available for purchase in my shop.

Alice Springs Beanie Festival 2022

It’s here again… Another spectacular year for the Alice Springs Beanie Festival with over 6,000 wonderful beanies & tea cosies to choose from. Not only to keep us snug & warm but also to delight the senses with colour, texture & fun.

This year’s theme “Stitching Hearts” inspired amazing creations & it’s interesting how imagination can interpret & bring the theme alive. View the winning beanie & tea cosies here. I’m so proud to be among  these fabulous creations.  A big Thank You to the judges; it must be a challenging task with so many sensational entries.

Button & Simple Infinity Cowl Patterns

It’s been a while but here are… Two, no fuss, quick & easy crochet cowl patterns; jazz up your winter wardrobe or, as a lovely gift for someone special.

Both patterns are worked by size rather than number of stitches. The given stitch counts & hook size are guides only, & will vary according to yarn ply & hook used. A thick yarn requires less foundation stitches than a finer yarn.

  • The infinity cowl is worked round (tubular) in even number of chains to size.
  • The Button cowl is worked flat in rows & the buttons are sewn on once complete with the spaces between stitches used as button holes. The foundation row can be worked as an uneven number if chains to size or, as Chainless foundation trebles (US:dc)

Requirements: 8 ply or yarn choice, hook size 4.50 (G) or appropriate hook for yarn ply, darning needle to weave in tail ends, scissors, stitch markers, 3 large buttons

  • The patterns include:
  • both UK & US terminology written pattern
  • clear stitch drawings & pattern diagrams (charts) where applicable
  • How to work the chainless foundation treble (US:dc)

Two patterns, one purchase, available in my shop

I’m committed to, & take great pride in, providing accurate info, both written & diagram. However, should you come across any problems, questions or comments, please don’t hesitate to contact me – Renate

~ Thank you for visiting my shop & supporting Handmade. ~

Basic Crochet Basket Pattern.

This popular crochet project, ideal for gifts & fund raisers or something beautiful for yourself is a practical & adaptable, basic crochet basket that can be made deep or shallow, with or without handles to best suit your storage needs.

Requirements: 8 ply yarn in 3 different colours or work with 3 treads of same colour, darning needle to weave in tail ends, scissors, stitch markers

Hook size: 7.00mm

Keep in mind, even though I’ve given yarn & hook requirements, this is your project; work with your own preferred colours & appropriate hook & give your project its own unique result.

  • The pattern includes:
  • basic basket pattern
  • both UK & US terminology written pattern
  • clear stitch drawings & pattern diagrams (charts) where applicable
  • How to make the tassel
  • pattern & chart for both small flower & leaf

Purchase the pattern here

I hope you enjoy this practical pattern, please contact me if you have any question or comments – Renate

Merry Christmas 2021

I’d like to thank everyone who supported me throughout 2021: class ladies, customers, family & friends… you are what makes it all worthwhile.

2021 is coming to an end &, not a moment too soon, I hear you say. I’m sure many of us are Covid weary & look forward to a fresh, new year &, with borders now open, family & friends can reunite once more. I hope everyone is faring well in this ‘Big Wet’. The rain, of course, is very welcomed after such a long dry, but my heart goes out to those experiencing floods, especially farmers who always seem to do it hard. I for one have a drenched garden, raging weeds & bedraggled chooks.

I didn’t manage an entry for the Alice Springs Beanie competition this year, but Maleny Knitfest was a wonderful success despite the Covid obstacles that almost stopped the event. Unfortunately, this was the last Knitfest due to the coordinators retiring. Sadly, the Landsborough Market is still on hold for the time being although I have heard that it will resume some time in the future. I so miss this little market, the friends I’ve made, the lovely locals who supported it &, of course, the opportunity to showcase & sell my creations.

With 2022 just around the corner I’d like to wish you a wonderful Christmas & every happiness for the New Year. Stay well, stay safe, be happy. There is so much to be grateful for… cheers Renate