Crochet Patterns from Knitting with Chopsticks
Hi Crocheters! Today we are having a Meet and Greet with the Crochet Designer behind the blog Knitting with Chopsticks.
Read on below to learn about Hortense and her designs before scrolling to the end of this post for a selection of free crochet patterns available from Knitting with Chopsticks.
This post includes just a small sampling of all the wonderful patterns, tutorials and projects she has available for you online. Be sure to check out her social media channels for even more goodies!
Crochet Designer Feature:
Knitting with Chopsticks
Meet Hortense
Question: Who are you? Tell me about yourself.
I’m Hortense, a passionate knitter, crocheter and hoarder of yarn.
My mom taught me the basics of knitting when I was young. Believe it or not, we were at the beach and I was bored (who knew that was possible at 10 years old?). I took those basic skills and added to them over the years thanks to blogs like this one and the wonderful community of online knitters and crocheters. Knitting with Chopsticks was created as a way to give back to that community and share my easy knitting and crochet patterns with beginners everywhere who want to take the next step.
My goal is to break down knitting and crochet patterns so they’re simple enough for you to create exactly what you want, the way you want it. I’m an engineer by trade, and a crafter by passion, which means all of my patterns have an extreme attention to detail, thorough explanations and step by step pictures.
When I’m not working on a yarn project, you might find me diving at the beach, or rewatching Grey’s Anatomy for the 100th time and snacking on chocolate (I am from Belgium, after all).
Question: How did you learn how to crochet? How long have you been crocheting?
Beginning 2018 I got tricked to learn crochet by a cute cuddly knit elephant plushie. I knit the entire project, just to realise the last part, the ears were crocheted. It was my first time trying such an advanced pattern and I was about to give up on it entirely so close to the finish line. After a few knit tries, I ordered a set of hooks on amazon and decided to give it a try.
I fell in love and haven’t stopped ever since.
Question: Do you have any tips for new crocheters? Any guidance to make them successful at a new hobby?
Don’t let anything scare you! Wether in knitting or crochet, it always looks much harder than it actually is. Go one step at a time, ask for help if you need it, be patient and you’ll get it!
Question: What do you enjoy crocheting the most?
Blankets and garments are my favorites to crochet. For some reason, I can still not explain to myself I tend towards knitting for winter items while I grab my hooks when thinking about summer dresses and light cardigans.
Question: What else are you passionate about (other than crochet)?
I love knitting as much as I crochet. Don’t ever ask me to pick just one! Outside of yarn crafts, I love baking, cycling around the countryside and travelling.
My family is a big part of my life. My little 2 year old boy and his daddy are my everything.
Question: What prompted you to start designing?
I’ve started designing by tweaking and adapting patterns I found to match what I wanted to make. Use their structure but a different stitch or use parts of different patterns to have the neck I wanted with the sleeves of the other design. Slowly I didn’t need the patterns as guides anymore and just made up my own designs.
One day I was scrolling through Pinterest and read an article about a crochet designer explaining all about designing and blogging. Mr Artichoke walked by and started reading over my shoulder. His reaction: What, she makes a living doing exactly what you’re already doing? But you can do the same and just share it online?
He planted the seed of the idea that started growing in my head and I launched my blog a couple of months later. Just for fun, to see if anyone would be interested in my designs. I never dreamed it would become my full time job a couple of years later.
Question: How long have you been designing and where do you publish your patterns?
I started Knitting with Chopsticks nearly 4 years ago now (can’t believe it’s already been so long!). You can find most of my designs free on my blog (https: www.knittingwithchopsticks.com) or purchase the ad-free printable PDF on Etsy and Ravelry:
Etsy: https://www.etsy.com/shop/KnittingwChopsticks
Ravelry: https://www.ravelry.com/designers/knitting-with-chopsticks
Question: What drives you to create? Where do you find instpiration for your designs?
I always struggle with this question. Honestly, I have no idea. Ideas just keep popping up in my head. Often it’s a detail on an item (clothes, home decor or other) that sparks the beginning of an idea. My brain just tends to have it’s own mind and come up with many more ideas than my hands can make.
Question: What do you enjoy designing the most?
Probably sweaters. One can never have too many sweaters (I’m always cold). They feel like a blank canvas to me. There are so many different ways to construct them that I could never get bored designing sweaters.
Question: What tips would you give to someone interested in designing and blogging?
Don’t be shy. Give it a try, be yourself and don’t hesitate to ask others. Blogging is such a diverse job, it can feel overwhelming mastering all the pieces but many bloggers are happy to chat strategy and share their experiences. You’d be surprised how much easier it all is when you’ve befriended a couple of others and share your experiences.
Learn How to Set Up a Successful Blog
Question: What goals have you set for yourself for the future?
I’m not big on goals. I tend to be an overachiever and have to do better than any goals I set so I tend to avoid them and just do my best. I’ve had 2 very tough years in my personal life. My yarn & blogging are my safe haven so I’m not putting any pressure on myself. I work when I can, try to keep growing but most importantly keep enjoying what I do.
Question: Who are your favorite makers? How have they inspired you?
Some of the big designers out there I really admire are Two of Wands, Sewrella and Knitatude. These ladies are masters at creating a sense of community and inspire others.
Question: Do you have a favorite yarn you like to use when you are crocheting? What colors and fibers do you gravitate toward when choosing your yarn?
Every new yarn I try becomes my favorite, until I try another one.
I’m currently working on a new design with King and Eye merisilk yarn (https://kingandeye.shop/collections/yarns/products/knitting-wool-white-yarn-crochet-yarn-15116) which is just haven. So soft and luxurious, every stitch is a treat.
I like to work with more of the classic types of yarn rather than the novelty yarns (no faux fur, ribbon or metalic yarns for me).
Question: Do you have anything else you’d like to share with us?
I know a lot of us are struggling with reading patterns when we first start out. If that’s your case too, this free roadmap is going to help you avoid the pitfalls that I spent so much time in (two steps forward, one step back all the way!) and give you the [6-step] process for following a crochet pattern successfully.
This roadmap literally shows you the exact steps you should take (and in what order!) + common mistakes to avoid to go from a tangled mess of yarn to a pretty project that actually looks like the pattern pictures.
👉 Signup for my newsletter and grab your FREE roadmap here: https://programs.knittingwithchopsticks.com/crochetroadmap
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/knittingwithchopsticks/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/knittingwithchopsticks/
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/knittingwithchopsticks/
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Free Crochet Patterns from Knitting with Chopsticks
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Free Patterns from Knitting with Chopsticks
Details and Links:
Watch the feature on YouTube here.
Your Dusk Hooded Vest
For days when you need another layer, but a sweater is too much, Your Dusk Hooded Vest is the perfect crochet piece to grab from your closet.
The loose fit and flat open front allows it to pair nicely with almost any top you own. An oversized hood adds interest to the back (and protects your hair when you get caught in the rain!), and a contrasting lace detail adds a touch of femininity.
The pattern is made out of two rectangles, meaning it’s perfect for beginner crocheters and is available in sizes XS to 5XL. You’ll feel cozy yet stylish at home or away in this hooded vest.
/PATTERN DETAILS
• Beginner-friendly
• Made out of two simple rectangles
• Open front with lace details
• Loose-fitting
• Size: This pattern is available in 5 sizes, XS to 5XL
• Techniques used / Special stitches: back loop only, front loop only, and magic circle/magic ring. Full explanations are given in the pattern.
• US crochet notations
• Illustrated step-by-step photos
/MATERIALS
• 6 mm / US J – 10 hook.
• Lion Brand Wool-Ease Yarn (85g, 80% Acrylic, 20% Wool, 180 m / 197 yds)
o 5 (6, 7, 8, 9) skeins Denim color
o 1 skein Fisherman color
• Tapestry needle to weave in the ends.
Adelie Granny Square Baby Blanket
Some things are classic for a reason. Just like there is a reason that granny square crochet projects will always be in style. Something about them will always be comforting.
Nostalgia is in the air anytime a granny square blanket is near. When you are ready for a spell of nostalgia and comfort, grab this granny square crochet blanket pattern, the Adelie Granny Square Blanket.
The Adelie granny square baby blanket is a classic granny square throw blanket with a couple of modern twists: a delicate woven border and decorative seams make this heirloom truly unique.
/PATTERN DETAILS
• baby blanket: 82 cm by 118 cm / 32.25” by 46.5”.
• Beginner friendly
• Made out of classic granny squares with decorative seams (tips and tricks included)
• Delicate woven blanket border (easy to make!)
• Techniques used / Special stitches: Full explanations are given in the pattern.
• US crochet notations
• Illustrated step-by-step photos
/MATERIALS
• Katia Yarns Merino Classic (DK weight 3, 52% merino super wash, 48% acrylic, 100g/3.5oz, 240m/262yd) held double:
o 3 skeins in white (1) (MC)
o 2 skeins in emerald (78) (color A)
o 2 skeins in dark rose (69) (color B)
o 2 skeins in very light grey (38) (color C)
• Katia Yarns Merino Aran (worsted weight 4, 52% merino super wash, 48% acrylic, 100g/3.5oz, 155m/169yd):
o 2 skeins in dark rose (54) (color D)
o 2 skeins in reseda green (91) (color E)
o 2 skeins in jeans (79) (color F)
You can easily substitute with any worsted weight yarn or DK weight yarn held double (check your gauge).
• 5.5 mm / US I – 9 hook
• 6 mm / US J – 10 hook
• Tapestry needle.
Caroline Lace Sweater
End of summer, there’s a chill in the air but it isn’t cold enough yet for the warm cozy fall sweaters, that’s when I grab my Caroline Sweater.
Light and lacy, it’s that little extra layer that keeps you comfortable when the air cools down (or when the aircon is on).
Wear it with a simple tank and your favorite jeans for a comfy yet trendy look.
The simple lace stitch is easy to master making this worsted weight sweater a breeze to work through. Available in sizes XS to 6XL, it’s worked in straight panels sewed together. No counting means it’s the perfect Netflix project.
/PATTERN DETAILS
• Size XS to 6XL
• Beginner-friendly
• Made out of 4 rectangles
• Techniques used / Special stitches: Full explanations are given in the pattern.
• US crochet notations
• Illustrated step-by-step photos
/MATERIALS
• 5.5 mm / US I – 9 hook.
• WeCrochet Dishie (worsted weight, 100% cotton, 174m/190yd, 100g/3.5oz) in colors
- Mint (color A): 2 (2, 2, 2, 3, 3, 3, 3, 3) skeins
- Kenai (color B): 1 (1, 1, 1, 2, 2, 2, 2, 2) skein(s)
- Conch (color C): 1 (1, 1, 1, 2, 2, 2, 2, 2) skein(s)
- Jalapeno (color D): 1 (1, 1, 1, 2, 2, 2, 2, 2) skein(s)
- Swan (color E): 1 (1, 1, 1, 2, 2, 2, 2, 2) skein(s)
• Tapestry needle to weave in the ends.
Pretty Spring Dress
You'll love this Pretty Spring Dress pattern. The simple, oversized design is perfect for a barbecue with friends or to throw over your swimsuit at the beach. There's no increases or decreases or fancy stitch count, making it the perfect lace crochet dress pattern for beginners. The dress is graded sizes S to 5XL, and the detailed step-by-step photos make it easy for anyone!
PATTERN DETAILS
• Size S to 5XL
• Beginner pattern
• US crochet notations
• Techniques & stitches: chain, single crochet, double crochet, treble crochet, puff stitch
• Illustrated step-by-step photos
/MATERIALS
• 4mm / US G crochet hook
• Sport weight cotton yarn: 14 50g skeins (approx 350m)
• Tapestry needle
• T-pins for blocking
Julia Top
The Julia summer top crochet pattern is a feminine and playful crochet top pattern. Simple eyelets add a lace detail to the sleeves, bottom and neckline.
Wear it with a pair of shorts for a cute everyday casual summer outfit. Or add a jeans and open cardigan on chiller days.
Made out of LionBrand Coboo, a dreamy cotton bamboo blend, it's a delight against your skin with great drape.
Thanks to the top-down in the round construction you'll be able to try your top on as you go and won't have to spend any time sewing.
/PATTERN DETAILS
• Sizes XS to 5XL
• Easy level
• Worked in the round (seamless)
• Techniques used / Special stitches: Full explanations are given in the pattern.
• US crochet notations
• Illustrated step-by-step photos
/MATERIALS
• 4 mm / US G – 6 hook.
• Lion Brand Coboo (100g, 50% cotton, 50% bamboo, 232 yards / 212 m): you will need 4 (5, 6, 6, 7, 7, 8, 9, 10) skeins in Mauve color.
• Tapestry needle to weave in the ends.
• 9 stitch markers.
Kate Sweater
Could this simple sweater pattern get any sweeter? Loose and comfy, it comes in all sizes from XS to 5XL. It features the Skewed Bead Crochet stitch which gives the pattern such a fun and interesting texture.
This crochet pattern shows you everything you need to know to get a beautiful sweater that is oh so much more special than what you could find at a store. Grab your hooks and lets get stitching!
/PATTERN DETAILS
• Worked in panels
• Easy crochet pattern
• Sizes XS to 5XL
• puffed / balloon sleeves
• textured details
• Techniques used / Special stitches: Full explanations are given in the pattern.
• US crochet notations
/MATERIALS
• 5 mm / US H – 8 hook.
• 4 mm / US G – 6 hook.
• Katia Lopapeysa Basic (light weight (3), 70% wool, 30% acrylic, 120m/131yd, 50g/1.75oz) in color 2: 9 (10, 11, 12, 14, 15, 16, 18, 19) skeins
• Tapestry needle to weave in the ends.
Plaza Blanket
The Plaza baby blanket crochet pattern features the timeless basketweave stitch with the most beautiful bobble edging, making this such a stylish blanket—and so easy to create!
Available in 8 sizes, it is not just a baby blanket pattern. Use this pattern to crochet a beautiful, versatile, and simple blanket that will make a wonderful gift or a fabulous addition to your own blanket collection.
/PATTERN DETAILS
• 8 Sizes: baby to king size
• Timeless basketweave texture with delicate bobble edging
• Beginner friendly
• Worked flat with edging in the round
• Techniques used / Special stitches: Full explanations are given in the pattern.
• US crochet notations
/MATERIALS
• 6 mm / US J–10 hook
• Worsted weight yarn: Royal Zeeman yarn (100% acrylic, 100g/3.5oz, 241m/264yd):
o 6 (10, 13, 18, 34, 41, 58, 67) skeins in grey
o 1 (1, 2, 2, 2, 3, 3, 3) skeins in off white for the border
You can easily substitute with any worsted weight yarn you want.
• Tapestry needle to weave in the ends.
Hometown Cardigan
The Hometown Chunky Cardigan crochet pattern is an easy oversized sweater that you can throw over anything. Featuring a simple rectangular construction with stitched on sleeves, it's nearly seamless with eyelets and puffs on the sleeve to make it extra special. It's the perfect project for beginners wanting to try their hand at garment making.
You'll stay warm and stylish in this oversized sweater, perfect for laying in colder months.
/PATTERN DETAILS
• sizes XS/S, M/L, XL/2XL, 3XL/4XL, 5XL/6XL
• Beginner pattern
• Oversized comfy fit
• Made from a rectangle with add on sleeves, nearly seamless
• Techniques used / Special stitches: puff stitch, full explanations are given in the pattern.
• US crochet notations
• Illustrated step-by-step photos
/MATERIALS
• 6 mm/ US J - 10 crochet hook.
• Chunky #5 weight yarn (100% wool) :
o 11 (9, 13, 15, 17) 50g/ 1 ¾ oz skeins in salmon red
o 1 50g/1 ¾ oz skein in grey
• Tapestry needle to weave in ends
Chair Socks
Ditch those annoying felt pads on the bottom of your chair legs, and upgrade to these adorable DIY crochet chair socks. They'll protect your floors, silence your chairs, and the best part-- they're easy to clean!
Make a set for each holiday or special occasion and bring instant festivity to your dining room. This fun crochet pattern is super easy and only uses a small amount of yarn, so it's perfect for using up your existing stash.
/PATTERN DETAILS
• Fits 2.5cm by 2.5cm / 1" by 1" base, 5.5cm / 2.25" height (easy to adjust)
• Beginner friendly
• Techniques used & Special stitches: magic loop, single crochet, increase
• US crochet notations
• Illustrated step-by-step photos
/MATERIALS
• 3.5 mm / US E crochet hook
• Sport weight cotton yarn
• Tapestry needle
Ariel Boho Summer Cardigan
The Ariel boho crochet summer cardigan is an easy light and airy summer cardigan. Wear it over a tank top with simple jeans, it instantly uplifts your outfit. Long with lots of drape, it’s perfect for a summer stroll on the beach.
Made out of 2 simple rectangles, it is perfect for beginners. Although it's worked with sport weight yarn, the big hook and airy construction make it a quick make.
/PATTERN DETAILS
• Sizes XS / S (M / L, XL / 2XL, 3XL / 4XL, 5XL / 6XL)
• Beginner level
• Made out of 2 rectangles
• Techniques used / Special stitches: Full explanations are given in the pattern.
• US crochet notations
• Illustrated step-by-step photos
/MATERIALS
• 5 mm / US H – 8 hook.
• Katia Summer Comfort (50 g / 1.75 oz, 78% Viscose, 22% Polyamide, 105m / 115 yd) in Koraal. You will need 10 (12, 15, 17, 19) skeins
• Tapestry needle to weave in the ends.
• T-pins for blocking
Knitting with Chopsticks Feature on YouTube
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Knitting with Chopsticks Feature on YouTube
