I was recently asked the difference between two of our yarns, both beautiful wools, and why one of them was softer and squishier than the other! So I thought I would offer a brief explanation! When it comes to wool, there are a few key factors that determine its quality, softness and squishy factor! One of the most important aspects is the micron count. But what exactly is a micron? More ..read more

I am often asked what my thoughts are about acrylic and other man made fibres in comparison to natural fibres when it comes to yarn.  I have even chatted about this subject in a panel discussion at the 2023 Crochet Guild Australia Conference with some of my yarny colleagues! Yarns are the cornerstone of textile creation, woven into everything from the clothes we wear to the blankets that keep us warm. The two primary categories of yarns—man-made (synthetic) and natural fibres—each come with their own sets of benefits and challenges. Understanding these can help us make informed ..read more

As many of you already know I attended the Crochet Guild Australia Conference last week. Whilst a little bit tiring, it was a sensational week where I had the opportunity to fill my cup to overflowing after spending time with some absolutely amazing humans. I was there with a couple of different hats on... 1. CGA Committee Member, 2. Yarn Lover (we had a fabulous Yarn Market), 3. CGA Conference Lead, 4. YMC Owner Sponsoring the Shelley Husband Book Signing Event 5. Passionate Crocheter! We had a focus on positive mental health, self care and wellbeing and I think that was embraced by everyone ..read more

How to Choose the Perfect Colour Scheme for Your Project  Are you feeling overwhelmed by the endless array of yarn colours available for your next project? Choosing the right colour palette can elevate your design from ordinary to extraordinary, but it doesn't have to be a daunting task. With a few simple tips and tricks, you can confidently select colours that harmonise beautifully and bring your crochet creation to life.     1. Draw Inspiration from Nature: Nature offers a rich tapestry of colours and textures that can serve as a boundless source of inspiration. Take a walk i ..read more

So, picture this: I had just received a new shipment of Cleckheaton Verve 12 ply Yarn, and I was itching to get creative. Verve is 30% Acrylic and 70% Wool, and the colours are so vibrant they practically sing to you.     What's a crafty individual to do? Well, fear not, because this yarn fanatic has a plan! What's the Plan you ask? This intrepid crafter decided to create a super simple pattern to showcase the stunning colour changes in the Cleckheaton Verve yarn. This pattern is so easy, even a beginner could tackle it with confidence. No need to b ..read more

In the hustle and bustle of modern life, finding moments of tranquility can seem like an elusive dream. However, nestled within the gentle rhythm of yarn and needles lies a therapeutic haven: the art of crochet and knitting. Beyond creating beautiful pieces of fabric, these crafts offer profound mental health benefits, tapping into the intricate chemistry of our brains and fostering a sense of well-being. Let's delve into the science behind the soothing power of crochet and knitting, exploring how they stimulate the release of dopamine, serotonin, and oxytocin – the trio of happiness hormones ..read more

Are you ready to embark on your next crochet or knit project? For some of us, planning is the key to success! Whether you're an experienced maker or just starting out, taking the time to plan out your project can save you time, money, and frustration. While some of us (I sometimes fall into this category) like to be spontaneous in our creating, most of us like to have a clear plan.  If you have multiple projects on the go, a project planner can be a great way to keep track of them all and help you plan out your next projects! 1. Define Your Project The first step in planning your crochet ..read more

Mr YMC and I are extremely lucky to live in the gorgeous town of Portarlington on the Bellarine Peninsula in Victoria.  We are part of an amazing community that has a strong focus on supporting others. We have been very privileged to meet many likeminded people that share our passion for Social Justice and want to do our part to continue to support others wherever we can.  Because of this we plan to have four major donation drives for the year.   April - Cottage by the Sea in Queenscliff (drop off by 3rd April) July - Food Assist in Portarlington (drop off by 30t ..read more

Are you a talented crocheter or knitter who wants to turn your hobby into a profitable business? Do you know that what you create is beautiful but you're not totally sure of the next steps?   Selling your handmade items can be a rewarding way to share your creations with others and make some extra income. However, there are certain do's and don'ts that you should keep in mind to ensure your success in the competitive world of handmade goods. In this blog post, we will explore some ideas for selling your beautiful makes.     Research The Market There are a lot of ..read more

Are you tired of the same old Christmas decorations? Looking to add a touch of handmade charm to your tree this year? Well, look no further! In this  post, I'll show you how to crochet a delightful Christmas tree bauble using 4 ply sock yarn. Get ready to unleash your inner crochet wizard and create a festive masterpiece that will have everyone oohing and aahing! What You'll Need: Before we dive into the magical world of crocheting baubles, let's gather our supplies. Here's what you'll need: 4 ply sock yarn in festive colours (because who says Christmas can't be stylish?) add s ..read more