Crochet Vlog: Cozy Crafts & DIY Crochet Projects

Welcome back to Episode 2 of the Secret Yarnery Crochet Podcast! Today, I’ve got a couple of fun projects to show you, some cozy creations, and a quick update on what’s going on in my crochet world. It’s always exciting to share what I’ve been working on as well as sneak peeks into my upcoming projects. Grab your tea and yarn, let’s get straight into it!

 

The Blanket Transformation

I am thrilled to share the blanket I’ve been working on. It started as my big Cocoon Cardigan project, but I ended up turning it into a full-fledged blanket. Measuring about 1.5 meters by 1.5 meters, it’s quite a substantial piece – heavy and oh-so-cozy. Want to know how many balls of yarn this beauty took? A whopping 19 balls of chenille yarn! But it’s totally worth it for that luxurious feel.

One of the best parts about this blanket is the cute, sweet edging. I did a tutorial for it, but I’m holding off on uploading it because I want the full blanket tutorial to go out all at once. This blanket is for a dear friend of mine, and let me tell you, I’m seriously in love with it. It’s one of those projects I can’t stop gushing over.

If you’re looking for fun blanket projects, check out some of my other crochet patterns.

My Cozy Slippers

Next up, the slippers! These are easily one of my favorite quick projects. I lovingly call them my two-hour slippers – but, to be honest, they take about an hour and 15 minutes to work up. They’re fluffy, warm, and just a joy to wear. I made mine using chenille yarn mixed with acrylic yarn for added fuzziness.

These cozy slippers are worked from the toe, and you build up the length as you go, kind of like you’re making a little sled for your feet. Bonus feature: the cute little flowers on top help you know which one goes on each foot. Practical, right? If you’re looking for a quick beginner project, this is the one for you!

The Famous Tortoise!

I cannot forget to mention my adorable tortoise – a pattern by Heidi Bears. I used a chunky acrylic yarn and added sewing store buttons for the eyes. Yes, they were a little pricier than expected but totally worth it. The tortoise has such a cute little shell, and the details really bring it to life. I had a blast making it, and I highly recommend trying out this pattern if you want something different yet delightful.

My Handmade Chenille Dress

Now, here’s something a little different – I made myself a chenille dress! Starting with the collar, I worked my way down, adding the sleeves in the end. It’s a perfect cold-weather dress. Since we’re in September now, I’m wearing it while I can before the weather warms up toward Christmas. Here in Kenya, our temperatures soar to around 28-30°C, so this dress will quickly become too warm.

But while it’s still chilly, I plan to enjoy it before packing it away for the hotter months!

Ongoing Projects: Granny Square Project Bags

Today’s class plan? We’re starting on some Granny Square Project Bags! They’re simple yet functional – just five granny squares: one for the bottom and four for the sides, then adding your handle. I like my project bags big because I tend to create large projects that need plenty of space!

While we’re at it, I’m also working on ideas for sewn linings. That way, the bag won’t stretch, and it’ll be good practice for ladies interested in learning stitching alongside crochet. These lined project bags are going to be super useful and stylish.

If you’re new to crochet and want to kick off with granny squares, check out my guide on easy crochet projects.

Finishing Thoughts and a Busy Week Ahead

That’s all for today’s episode, but there’s always more happening in the crochet world! Tomorrow, I’ll be hosting a birthday party for my four-year-old, complete with a bouncy castle and school cupcakes. And next week, we’ll dive into our crochet initiative. The goal is to teach unemployed single mothers how to crochet so they can create items to sell and support themselves financially.

I’m thinking of starting them off with shopping bags, partly because I’m already working on a great design!

Stay tuned for more projects and updates in next week’s episode. It’s going to be a busy week, but I’ll always find a few minutes to pop in and chat with all of you. Huge thanks to everyone who’s been following along—I love the support!

For more crochet news and updates, check out my latest crochet podcast.

Missed the last blog?  It’s here!

Happy crocheting, and stay hooked!