Craft Gossip

Independent craft blog since 2007

FREE PATTERN FREE-FOR-ALL

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Did you see the latest announcement from LionBrand.com that all their patterns, and there are thousands, are now FREE?

LB free one 0809

http://www.lionbrand.com/patterns/80243AD.html

This is a boon to us – and a GREAT way for a company to sell a lot of yarn.  As you all know by now, I’m swimming in yarn.  I don’t need to buy any.  But, when did need ever have anything to do with YAS (yarn acquisition syndrome)?

Well, my yarn Donnybrook is upon me.  I’ll be buying no more yarn for a while.  Gotta use up or give away this HUGE stash before I expend more income on yarn that just sits, staring at me, yelling ‘nanny boo boo – you need to crochooo’.

No kidding!  Doesn’t your yarn yell at you?  Also, I believe that all the colors and textures I don’t LOVE get together in the dark of night or closet or plastic tub and MATE TO CREATE MORE skeins like them.  I mean, how much orange yarn does one PINK person need?  I didn’t buy all that orange yarn – ummm, or did I?  Well, if I actually bought it, it was at a thrift store or a garage sale.  Really!  Tune out now if you don’t believe me.  Non-believers are unwelcome here…..

But, I digress.  Back to free patterns.  Lest you run out of items to crochet, here are some sites you must visit.  Cuidado!  Warning!  Caution! These sites are ALL addictive.  You’ll spend way too much of your crochet time surfing these sites.  But, a crocheter’s gotta get inspiration from somewhere, right?  So here goes:

If you haven’t spent a month browsing this site, you’re don’t REALLY have PAS (pattern acquisition syndrome):

http://www.myhq.com/public/c/r/crochetpoet/

Same goes for these:

http://www.crochetpatterncentral.com/

http://home.inreach.com/marthac/links.html

And, here are a few others that I enjoy visiting:

http://momsloveofcrochet.com/doilypatterns.html

http://www.littleprojectscrafts.com/freepatterns.htm

http://jaybird-designs.com/shop/index.php?main_page=index&cPath=14

http://www.cbel.com/crochet_crafts/

Whew!  That’s all for now.  More soon.  Now, go forth and surf!

Have you read?

Etsy Feature – Pottery Travel Mug Template Set (3 Pieces)

There’s something so satisfying about a handmade travel mug. It’s practical, stylish, and makes your daily coffee or tea ritual feel that little bit more special. With this set of 3 pottery travel mug templates, you can create your own ceramic mugs that not only look professional but also make thoughtful, personal gifts.

What’s Included

This set comes with three different templates for slab-building your own travel mugs. Each template has slightly different proportions, giving you variety in size and style. That way you can experiment until you find the perfect fit for your hand—or make a matching set for family and friends.

Why These Templates Are Worth It

  • Reusable & Reliable: Print and trace them as many times as you want.

  • Practical Design: The angled opening and lid slot make them comfortable and functional.

  • Perfect for Beginners: Templates take the guesswork out of hand-building.

  • Gift-Worthy: A handmade travel mug is a unique, eco-friendly present that anyone would appreciate.

Inspiration for Makers

  • Try a speckled clay body with a matte glaze for a modern, minimalist vibe.

  • Add underglaze designs or decals for a personalized look.

  • Make a full set of mugs in coordinating colors—perfect for a couple or family gift.

  • Pair your finished mugs with a bag of specialty coffee or tea for a beautiful handmade gift set.

Why You’ll Love It

Handmade pottery mugs have a warmth and character that no store-bought cup can compete with. Using these templates makes the process approachable, while still leaving plenty of room for your creativity to shine. And honestly? Everyone I know could use a good travel mug—so why not make one that feels personal and one-of-a-kind?

You can grab the set here: Travel Mugs Set Templates (3 Pieces) on Etsy.

This post is part of my Etsy Feature series, where I share clay tools and templates that make creating both functional and decorative pottery easier and more fun. And if you’re looking for a project that balances everyday use with handmade charm, these travel mugs might be your next go-to.