This year, April 22 marks the 51st anniversary of Earth Day, a day when we recognize the beauty and value of the natural world around us and make new efforts to clean up our surroundings, protect our environment and the myriad creatures within it, and support efforts to ensure a healthy globe for generations to come.
This year’s Earth Day theme is “Restore Our Earth,” and we will all find ways to make steps, small and large, toward that goal. One small, and very easy step is always carrying a reusable shopping bag with you and using it as often as possible. Even better? Make your bag yourself.
Spending some extra time at home can give you a new perspective on your living space: on its look and feel, what you do and don’t like about it … and what you might want to change. There are so many home décor options out there, it’s admittedly a little dizzying. Being willing to use your own creativity and hooks, needle, or loom can help you narrow your choices to the most personal of styles. The handcrafted home is unique.
Before you can create, however, you need to decide what kind of look you’re going for—and there’s nothing that affects the overall feel of a room as much as color. Luckily for all the crochet fans out there, TSB has a selection to share that might help you narrow things down.
Do brilliant, vivid colors fill you with energy? Do you find yourself longing for rich, lively hues everywhere you turn? Collections like COLORFUL CROCHET are bursting with designs for making your home brighter and more beautiful. From pillows to coasters, potholders to throws, even delightful and adaptable coathanger covers—it’s never been simpler to turn any room in your home into a celebration of all things colorful.
Or you might groove on something more classic—do you love dynamic contrasts, except you want a different kind of pop? Look no further than CROCHET IN BLACK & WHITE: this compelling two-color combo is impossible to turn down, with patterns that range from stylish in their simplicity to fun and funky, running the gamut from rugs and lampshades to table runners and wall hangings, and so much more. These versatile, striking home accessories prove without a doubt that keeping your color selection simple and straightforward doesn’t mean sacrificing an ounce of creativity—or fun.
And of course home is a place for sanctuary, too: for calm and comfort, and the kind of peace you can only find when you’re relaxing in your own space. If that sounds like your ideal, you might be in the mood for chic, refined neutrals … which are something of a specialty for Scandinavian crochet expert Tove Fevang. Her latest, CLASSIC CROCHET THE MODERN WAY, features gorgeous home décor designs in soft, soothing colors—the perfect complement to some of her best-loved patterns from the aptly-themed CROCHET FOR THE KITCHEN. With balanced, natural shades, make your home the ultimate refuge from the stresses and strains of life.
No matter what style suits you, there are endless opportunities for you to give your home a personal, handmade touch—and make it somewhere you love to be!
Which of these general categories would you put yourself into, and how do you like to show that off in your space? Let us know! We love to see your handcrafted home projects.
Trafalgar Square Books, publisher of quality equestrian and craft books, is a small business based on a farm in rural Vermont.
In these uncertain times, it’s more important than ever to make an effort to appreciate our friends and loved ones, to lift our spirits and remind ourselves how much we care about each other—and Mother’s Day is a perfect opportunity to let the moms in our lives know how thankful we are for their presence. Even when circumstances pose a bit of a challenge!
For those of us lucky enough to share a household with our mothers on their special day, the possibilities are just about endless. Helping out around the house with everyday tasks is an easy way to make it clear we’re grateful for the person who does them the most often—and give Mom a welcome break at the same time. Baking a favorite dessert is another classic option for a little homemade indulgence … or maybe a charming afternoon tea party everyone can enjoy?
This slideshow requires JavaScript.
Or perhaps you’re stuck practicing some social distancing. Don’t let that keep you apart! Doing something fun together outdoors is a wonderful way to spend time together, even with 6 feet of personal space apiece—at least as long as the weather’s cooperating. Taking a long, luxurious walk, or going on a “quarantine picnic” (BYOB: bring your own blanket!) gives you a chance to appreciate the beauty of spring together, and enjoy an enriching and heartwarming experience you’ll treasure.
This slideshow requires JavaScript.
But not all of us are in a position to spend time with loved ones for Mother’s Day this year, no matter how much we’d like to. Luckily, there are still all kinds of things you can do to show Mom some extra love! Shower a mom within visiting distance with a little something special—a handmade springtime wreath to leave on the front door, even when you can’t share space in person, or a delightful present for the porch or garden. And no matter how near or far away we are, the most important thing we can do is let Mom know we’re thinking of her. Whether it’s a phone call, a video chat, a text, or a card, send some love a mother’s way, and remind her to take a little time for herself this year and have a relaxing, refreshing, rejuvenating Mother’s Day.
This slideshow requires JavaScript.
And it would be remiss of us not to mention—if a mother you know and love happens to be a crafter, or wants to give it a try, a digital gift certificate from TSB is an endlessly flexible treat that’ll let her pick and choose whichever titles catch her eye … and we’ll be holding a special Mother’s Day sale this weekend, 20% off Sunday into Monday, which makes it the perfect time to order!
The siren song of a few brand-new skeins of yarn (or more than a few…) can be hard to resist. But as long as we’re all stuck steering clear of our favorite LYS for the sake of social distancing, that makes it the perfect time to dive back into our stashes and rediscover all the hidden treasures we haven’t quite managed to use up.
Learning how to crochet can make any stashbusting expedition a little easier: quick, fun crochet projects that use lots of different colors are everywhere. Potholders, dishtowels, amigurumi; crocheted flowers, crocheted hearts—or any other shape you like, strung together on a joining line of chain stitch for the world’s most charming handmade bunting. Turn the handful of leftover hanks you never thought you’d manage to use into delightful decorations or handy household accessories in a snap!
Some crochet patterns are specifically designed to be accessorized with all kinds of extra tidbits, perfect for those leftover ends a little too long to throw away but a little too short for most projects.
COLORFUL CROCHETfeatures layered, flat, and spiraling crochet flowers, hearts, and butterflies that are easy to attach to hats, cowls, or mittens, or even the toes of slippers—or, of course, make a few dozen flowers in whatever colors you’ve got, joined together into a one-of-a-kind shawl.
Or maybe dishtowels and pillows are more your style? Try a striking striped pattern from CRAZY FOR CROCHET, adapted to whatever color selection you’ve got on hand; just make the stripes thicker for the yarns you’ve got more of, and thinner for the ones that are almost gone. (And if you’ve got a lot of variations in weight to worry about, try disguising the difference by holding a lighter yarn doubled, or working bobbles or popcorns that will change the texture anyway.)
But of course the most straightforward go-to choices of all for smaller amounts of yarn are crochet designs for babies. Baby patterns work up so quickly, and the more colors you’ve got, the better, brighter, and more interesting they’ll look! A collection like CROCHETED GIFTS FOR BABY is full of adorable toys, accessories, and other odds and ends that can easily be crocheted with stripes, spots, and zigzags—or multicolored eyes, legs, or tails, depending on the toy.
It’s always such a fantastic feeling to be able to put a long-stashed yarn to good use, and small, colorful crochet patterns make it easier than ever. And don’t hold back: what’s the oldest yarn you’ve got tucked away, and what have you been thinking about using it for? Tell us! Or share on your social page and tag us (for good measure).
Lemonade. Iced tea. G&T. Homebrew. ALL your summer drinks deserve to rest their laurels on these floral coasters by Scandinavian knitting and crochet rockstars Arne & Carlos! We’ll toast to their fabulousness and share this pattern from KNIT-AND-CROCHET GARDEN for FREE!
We know…crochet flower power is just what you needed to get over your hump day. So just CLICK HERE to download the pattern and get a move on your happy.
Did you know? In 2010, Arne & Carlos’ first craft book, 55 CHRISTMAS BALLS TO KNIT, became an immediate Norwegian bestseller and consequently went on to become a best-selling book in North America, Europe, and Asia. Today, Arne & Carlos have published 10 books, which are enjoyed by people from all over the world. Their books are available in Norwegian, English, Danish, Dutch, Estonian, Finnish, French, German, Icelandic, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Russian, Spanish, and Swedish.
The Scandinavian designers have collaborated with many prestigious international brands, including Urban Outfitters and fashion label Comme des Garçons. Today, they design for and work closely with Rowan, Regia, and Schachenmayr yarns.
Arne & Carlos’ books are available in North America from the TSB online bookstore, where shipping in the US is FREE.
Today, when it comes to our kids, we value handmade. We like to know the materials used and whether they were responsibly sourced and are safe for our children to wear and handle. And in this increasingly technical and digital world, we also like our kids to have time with soft, cozy playthings that someone who loves them made.
Here are four craft books with dozens of easy patterns you–or the other crafter in your family–can use to make toys, garments, and accessories that everyone can enjoy and feel good about! Plus, one book that’s an excellent first sewing book, just for kids!
Take your pick of 34 designs for a baby’s wardrobe that couldn’t be simpler. With even the most complicated pattern instructions, finishing techniques, and sizing changes laid out using Marie Claire’s straightforward, easy-to-understand method, knitters of all levels of experience can create delightful garments and accessories. Diagrams are simple and clear, with arrows pointing the way so you know where to look; instructions are numbered, and carefully positioned to make it easy to understand where you’ll be in the project as you follow them; and color-coded illustrations make finishing seams a snap. With over 30 patterns to choose from for babies up to 12 months old–from ponchos to overalls and tunics to hoodies–the most difficult thing you’ll have to do is decide which one to make first!
Over 60 charming patterns from Marie Claire’s exceptional collection, in gentle colors and a variety of styles, all designed just for babies–including booties, undershirts, hats, coats, dresses, sweaters, blankets, pillows, and snuggly stuffed animals. With hundreds of diagrams and color photos to guide novice and expert knitters alike, it has never been easier to delight growing families with beautiful hand-knit gifts, and pamper babies from first smile to first step!
This delightful collection of matching hats and booties offers dozens of cute combinations and photo-worthy styles to suit any baby. Whether parents prefer classic looks or lean toward the playful, whether wool is best or cotton more comfortable, and no matter the season, you’re bound to find the perfect fit. Help baby stay cozy on those frosty mornings and provide stylish shelter from the summer sun. Craft colorful characters like a smiling frog or wide-eyed owl, a pirate mouse or a charming kitten. Crochet projects with or without earflaps, pompoms, ankle ties, beads, buttons, or flowers—the possibilities are endless!
Whether clothes, toys, or ideas for the nursery, the projects in this sweet crochet collection for babies and toddlers up to 24 months help make the perfect handmade home. From classics like the first pair of shoes, the first cozy blanket or cuddly animal friend, to trendy new ideas like picture frames, a fun rattle, or a tiny hat, this charming mix of ideas will delight, filling your home with handmade warmth, comfort, and color.
Kids Learn to Stitch introduces children to the creative world of hand sewing. The latest in the successful “Kids Learn to…” series, following on from Kids Learn to Knit and Kids Learn to Crochet (which combined sold almost 20,000 copies), this book enlists the help of the same two original animal characters, Pip and Peg, who starred in the earlier books. With their clever tips and advice, children learn how to use a sewing needle and thread to make simple projects, some practical and others decorative, with six fun designs to complete.
For more information or to order any of these books that can make your child’s home a handmade household, visit the Trafalgar Square Books online bookstore, where shipping in the US is always FREE.
Did you know? TSB has a generous loyalty program! We’ll pay you to buy your books directly from us, a small publisher based on a farm in rural Vermont.
Tomorrow is Valentine’s Day, but we’re already feelin’ the love! So we’re treating you all to a FREE crocheted heart potholder pattern from 35+ POTHOLDERS TO CROCHET by Beatrice Simon, Eveline Hetty-Burkart, Beate Hilbig, and Dagmar Neubert, published by TSB.
PLUS…TOMORROW (2/14/19) ONLY! We’re showing more love with a one-day sale at our online bookstore where you can get 20% off our bestselling craft books, plus FREE SHIPPING in the US when you enter coupon code LOVEYARN at checkout!
Happy Heart Day!
Trafalgar Square Books, publisher of fine equestrian and craft books, is a small business based on a farm in rural Vermont.
We may not be huddled in Times Square (yet), but we’re well outfitted for the cold with all the hand-knit and hand-crocheted garments and accessories we’ve made this year. And the source of inspiration? The amazingly talented authors of our craft books! We are so proud to publish these innovative creatives from around the world, and we have a whole lot more exciting ideas for makers in store. But before we get too far ahead of ourselves, let’s take a quick look back at the books we published in 2018.
The Faroe Islands, a far-flung archipelago lying halfway between Norway and Iceland, have a rich and longstanding knitting tradition—knitting was once one of their largest export industries, as well as a dearly-loved pastime. Now, inspired by this bountiful heritage, knit designer Svanhild Strøm and her mother Marjun Biskopstø have brought contemporary style and classic Faroese motifs together in this striking collection of 52 traditional Faroese designs on hats, sweaters, ponchos, slippers, and more.
It’s never been easier to knit with beads! From pretty pearls to classic silver or gleaming glass, beads are the perfect way to add a little glitz and glamour to any knitted project-and knit designers Liv Asplund and Jane Asprusten have finally made it as simple as it sounds. Using their straightforward technique, novices and veterans alike can take their pick of dozens of gloves, hats, headbands, wrist warmers, bags, and scarves, in thin yarn or thick, with small beads or large, and craft fun and fancy accessories in style.
Now in paperback! Inspired by the richly decorated interiors of medieval churches in the province of Uppland, Sweden, this gorgeous book is a visual playground for the knitter. Author, graphic artist, and hand-knit designer Anna-Karin Lundberg provides a stunning photographic glimpse into her country’s creative and religious history while explaining her own fascination with the motifs, colors, and shapes of the Middle Ages. Lundberg then seamlessly translates the luxurious swirling vine patterns, graceful borders, and exciting color combinations from dozens of dramatic mural paintings and period textiles into sumptuous modern-day knits anyone can wear.
Knitters, crocheters, felters—crafters from all over the world have learned to look to the dynamic Scandinavian design duo and style influencers Arne & Carlos for what to make next. Over 15 years and 7 uniquely beautiful instructional books, Arne & Carlos have built their brand, from breakout phenomenon to reliable supplier of how-to information and creative inspiration. Now they have gathered their pick of the “Best of the Best”– 70 of their favorite techniques and patterns from their previous books and pet projects: balls, dolls, birds, slippers, sweaters, scarves, mittens, and more–and combined them in one glorious, highly illustrated package. There is something here for everyone, whether hardcore fan or neophyte: Arne & Carlos not only share their greatest hits in fresh and exciting ways, they also provide 15 never-before-seen projects.
May Britt Bjella Zamori is firmly in love with the possibilities of dynamic openwork, playing with yarn weight, and crochet that’s easy and undeniably wearable at the same time. In this fabulous collection, you’ll find soft, lovely crochet pieces for both summer and winter use; big and small projects like scarves, short and long vests; heavy, cozy yarns for long-sleeved sweaters and light, drapey yarns for dresses and skirts; plus cushions, accessories, blankets, and so much more.
Get ready to be immersed in the strikingly vivid world of handcrafting designer Frida Pontén, who’s brought some of her favorite patterns together, 44 in all into a brilliant celebration of all things knitted. Whether you’re seeking an airy summer jacket, a cozy poncho for cool days, a warm striped scarf, enchanting wrist warmers, or fun and funky blankets, look forward to breathtaking designs that are sure to be a highlight of your home or wardrobe.
45 timeless designs specially chosen from the popular Scandinavian weaving magazine Vävmagasinet offer all the help and inspiration you need to create a delightful and unique focal point for any room in your home. Each pattern is intentionally versatile: choose from a wide array of fabrics to suit your individual style; change the size and color of blankets, pillows, and rugs to complement a room’s décor; or match the color of table linen to your favorite china.
Review some of the basic techniques of working with multiple colors to help you find your footing, and then get ready–get set–and go wild! With fierce tigers, brilliant peonies, looming giraffes, cute Chihuahuas, and creeping jellyfish, this collection of over 20 different stranded patterns for socks and mittens is bursting with inspiration.
This stunning collection features 26 luxurious projects with all the delight of classic textured cable patterns, plus renowned designer Martin Storey’s trademark contemporary appeal. With a versatile range of garments–including scarves, hats, mittens, shrugs, sweaters, and more–this book provides a unique opportunity to expand your repertoire of stitch patterns.
Ann-Mari Nilsson’s comprehensive pattern treasury covers the “big three” knitting design techniques, from easy to challenging: multi-color, slip stitch, and relief stitch. The book includes basic templates for a wide variety of garments; mix and match with whatever catches your eye from the library of over 80 charts for pattern knitting, and work your choice of accessory with whichever design you like best.
Beaded wrist warmers are a vital, beloved, and beautiful part of Lithuanian traditional costume. That’s how Irena Felomena Juškienė discovered them: As a member of a group of artists dedicated to classic Lithuanian dance and music, she wore them during performances. When she decided to explore the roots of these knitted accessories, Irena found they were a fascinating part of the regional history and culture of Lithuania. The results of her journey have now been brought together in a compilation of beaded knitting patterns that spans centuries, dialects, and multiple museum collections.
Winter Knits from Scandinavia (December)
Knit designer Jenny Alderbrant has collected 24 of her best-loved patterns for mittens, hats, and socks, with dozens of colors and delightful motifs that’ll keep you warm all winter long. Try out time-tested classics like flowers and starry snowflakes, or get creative with cats, butterflies, and more! Featuring easy-to-adjust sizes, for children and adults, and eye-catching designs to suit every taste.
Our very best wishes for a safe, peaceful, and very happy New Year.
Trafalgar Square Books, publisher of fine craft and equestrian books, is a small company based on a farm in rural Vermont.
At TSB we love supporting the maker in each of us. In the 12 weeks running up to the holiday season, we have been giving away FREE PATTERNS from our bestselling knitting and crochet books. We shared a roundup of our first six free patterns in a post a couple weeks ago (click here). Now, here’s your key to the final six—there are a LOT of fab ideas here to start your New Making Year with busy hands and lots of yarn.
Check it out! Click the links or the images to download the free pattern PDF:
Hand Towel from Classic Crochet the Modern Way by Tove Fevang.
Elves Knitted Socks from Jorid Linvik’s Big Book of Knitted Socks by Jorid Linvik.
Bobbled Potholder from 35+ Potholders to Crochet by Beatrice Simon, Eveline Hetty-Burkart, Beate Hilbig & Dagmar Neubert
Click each link above to download your 6 FREE PATTERNS, click here to read our blog post with the first 6 FREE PATTERNS, and follow Trafalgar Square Craft Books on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter to get others in the new year ahead!
Happy Handmade Holidays!
Trafalgar Square Books, publisher of fine craft and equestrian books, is a small company based on a farm in rural Vermont.
All of us benefit from those who have a touch more experience or a tad more exposure to a specific technique—that is, we do when they share their knowledge! And that, of course, is what is so fabulous about crochet and knitting technique books: They not only collect cool ideas and patterns in one place, they usually include some hard-won tips, tricks, and sage advice, to boot.
Here are 5 amazing crochet tips you might not have heard yet, gathered from books we are proud to have published.
CROCHET TIP 1
Working in the round? Whether you’re crocheting or knitting, make it easy for yourself by placing a marker of yarn in a contrast color every few rounds—not just one in the first round, or one you have to keep moving up for each new round! Tip from CROCHET IN BLACK & WHITE by Constanze Diehl-Hupfer and Magdalena Melzer.
From Crochet in Black & White by Constanze Diehl-Hupfer and Magdalena Melzer
Crochet Tip 2
When you’re crocheting granny squares in multiple colors, it’s a good idea to begin a new color at a corner—and to begin the next new color at a different corner, so the square’s as even as possible. Catching the old color and covering it as you go means you won’t have to weave in ends later! Tip from KNIT-AND-CROCHET GARDEN by Arne & Carlos.
From Knit-and-Crochet Garden by Arne & Carlos.
Crochet Tip 3
Working slip stitch through some eyelets? If you’re having trouble seeing the holes where your slip stitches need to go, try sliding a knitting needle into the holes to open them up and help you find them. Tip from CLASSIC CROCHET THE MODERN WAY by Tove Fevang.
From Classic Crochet the Modern Way by Tove Fevang.
CROCHET TIP 4
It’s easy to work a crochet edging onto just about any piece of knitting or loosely woven fabric! You can even work onto something more closely woven—either by embroidering a base of blanket stitch at the edge and then crocheting along that, or by using fine yarn and a small hook with a pointy head to pierce holes along the edge. Tip from CROCHET WORKSHOP by Emma Seddon and Sharon Brant.
From Crochet Workshop by Emma Seddon and Sharon Brant
CROCHET TIP 5
It’s easy to starch things that need to hold their shape—and to unstarch them, if they end up too stiff! 2 cups of confectioner’s sugar, boiled in 2/3 of a cup of water until transparent, can be swiped onto a completed piece of knitting or crochet with a pastry brush; and if you put too much on, you can always rinse a little starch back out with running water. Tip from TAPESTRY CROCHET AND MORE by Maria Gullberg.
From Tapestry Crochet and More by Maria Gullberg
You can visit the entire TSB online bookstore, where shipping in the US is FREE, by CLICKING HERE.
Trafalgar Square Books, publisher of fine craft and equestrian books, is a small business based on a farm in rural Vermont.
1
For more information or to order any of these books that can make your child’s home a handmade household, visit the Trafalgar Square Books online bookstore, where shipping in the US is always FREE.
Needles, Hooks, and Lovers of Books 