When I started out crocheting, I had no idea where to go for inspiration. I knew about Etsy, but beyond that, I just made it up. There were a few blogs I knew about but they weren't really my style.
These days, crochet inspiration is much more available. Crochet's increasing popularity combined with social media make finding new projects much easier. Here are some of the places I go for inspiration:
Ravelry:
Ravelry is an online database/social media platform for knitters and crocheters. Most notably, it has an extremely searchable index of free and for sale patterns. You can search by a range of criteria - yarn weight and amount, age, gender, accessory, garment, size - the combinations are endless. You can also connect to other crocheters, many designers have groups, and you can ask questions in the forums. It is totally free to join and it always my first call when I am looking for something to make.
Pinterest:
My second point of call is usually Pinterest. *looks wistfully in the distance* I remember when Pinterest was just an invite only moodboard that the select few were allowed to play in. Now, most every one is on Pinterest and it can be a great tool for looking for crochet inspiration. It comes with a warning, Pinterest may well be the single biggest time suck ever invented - so bad but so good.
Some people who have great taste in crochet:
Blogs:
Blogs are another huge source of inspiration - some of the best known ones are: Attic24 and Emma Lamb . I also love:
Lululoves
Etsy:
Etsy continues to be a hive of handmade inspiration. With its new instant download facility, it makes those "I must make it NOW" moments much easier. Mamachee patterns, Mon Petit Violon, or if you like amigurimi, check out Amy Gains Designs.
Japanese Crochet Patterns:
While you are at Etsy, head over to Pompadour24's Etsy Shop and pick up a Japanese crochet book. They are charted, so can be hard to read for beginners, but they are just chocked to the brim with unusual makes, gorgeous stitch patterns and tons of inspiration.
Magazines:
Ok, I admit to having a small obsession with magazines. I love them. The resurgence in craft magazines has been so so fun to watch, but seriously bad for my bank balance. (Sorry those of you not in the UK, but I don't know anything about other mags!)
Crafty - if you love crochet that is a bit quirky and off beat and cool - this is for you. Such a fun magazine! One of my favourite projects of late in a magazine was Kate Heppell's suspenders. Also, they have a new crochet columnist who I happen to know very well ;) .
Inside Crochet - I have waxed lyrically about IC's beautiful patterns and photography before. I love this magazine. I love Claire's styling and Britt's photography.
Simply Crochet - another newer magazine - full of delightful, fun projects and lots of quick makes. It is a sister magazine to Mollie Makes and is packed full of very sweet crochet projects. I like how they focus on crochet for a specific room of the house.
Do you want some inspiration for the year ahead? Simply Crochet is giving away a year long subscription to one of you!! Open to anyone in the world! All you need to do is leave a comment below as to where you go for Crochet Inspiration.
Details:
- Competition open worldwide.
- Winner will be chosen at random.
- Winner's name and address will be shared with Future Media for subscription.
- No members of the Slugs household are eligible.
- Competition closes at 9pm, 27th July 2013.
Competition now closed. Chandra McDaniel is the winner. I have emailed you.
Didn't win? Well Simply Crochet has set up a special offer just for Crochet Camp!!!
Try 3 issues for just £1 when you subscribe to Simply Crochet today.
Simply Crochet is full of creative ideas for anyone who loves - or would love to learn - crochet. Inside you will find beautiful designs for the home, fashionable accessories to wear and gift ideas for all occasions. From lampshade covers to shawls, toys to blankets and gadget cosies to cardigans, Simply Crochet is a must-buy for creative crafters looking for new things to make. With clear, easy-to-follow instructions to ensure the best possible results every time, you'll be hooked on handmade from the very first page!
Subscribe today:www.myfavouritemagazines.co.uk/SCR314
TERMS AND CONDITIONS: This trial offer is for new print subscribers only subscribing by Direct Debit. You will receive 3 issues for £1 and then continue on a quarterly Direct Debit of £12.49 thereafter. Full details of the Direct Debit guarantee are available on request. Prices correct at point of print and subject to change. For full terms and conditions please visit: www.myfavouritemagazines.co.uk/terms. Offer ends 31st August 2013.