How to Spot AI-Generated Crochet (and Why It Matters)

How to Spot AI-Generated Crochet

AI-generated images: you either love ’em or hate ’em, and from my experience, many tend to lean toward the strong dislike side of things. AI is a fabulous tool if used well, but a few individuals tend to use it for nefarious reasons. If you’re old like me, you may remember the TV show Maxwell Smart. He had a saying: “If only he had used his powers for good and not evil.” This is so very true for AI. But focusing on crochet, let’s take a look at how you can spot what is fake and what is real.

You see a picture of something rather amazing you want to crochet, but it just feels… off? Like the stitches are right, but something is missing? Could it be AI-generated crochet content?

Crochet takes time. It’s created by human hands, hard work, and yes — sometimes a whole lot of cursing when things don’t quite go as planned. AI can be very clever and create anything from your imagination, but it just can’t fake great crochet design.

So, here are a few signs you might be looking at something whipped up by a robot rather than a real crocheter:

Weird Stitch Combos That Make No Sense

If the pattern lacks insight to explain why that single crochet is placed somewhere it wouldn’t normally go — say, into the loop of the previous skip stitch in reverse — and you’re close to pulling your hair out trying to figure out what it means, it might be AI. Real designers usually explain things more clearly (or at least give you a diagram, or a note that says, “Yes, I know this is weird, but trust me!”).

Overly Formal or Robotic Tone

If the pattern has a robotic tone such as “Proceed to execute your second series of chain loops in a clockwise direction,” then chances are it was not lovingly created by a human bean 🫘.

Photos Look ‘Off’

The pictures just look weird. They are overly smooth and generally really bright in colour. The yarn looks quite fake. The stitch definition looks odd. Often the photographs won’t match the written instructions, and stitches seem to disappear into nowhere. I asked AI to create some examples of generated crochet. The main picture of this post shows the results.

Repetitive or Vague Instructions

“Repeat rounds 2–4 until desired length.” This statement can sometimes be used in a design, but most designers will add further information or at least include stitch counts and tips. If it feels like you might as well have tried to write it yourself, then it could be AI.

It Sounds Just a Bit… Off

Most individual crochet designers have their own style. This could be in how they write or how they format a pattern, and a little bit of the person behind the design usually shines through. AI tends to muck up here — it doesn’t have any personal touches or individuality. Crochet designers pour hours (and, sometimes weeks or months) into designing, frogging, testing, writing, rewriting, photographing, and editing patterns. When AI content floods the space with free or cheap versions that don’t work, it devalues the hard work of actual makers — and it frustrates crocheters who end up wasting their precious yarn and time.

So What Can You Do?

Firstly, be wary. Always check reviews and the background of those you’re purchasing patterns from. Support real designers. Look for clear, tested patterns with human touches — those little notes, acknowledgements, tester credits, photos of slightly crinkled projects that look handmade. And if you’re unsure, ask questions or poke around the designers ’ other work. If they’ve got a Ravelry shop or Etsy page, see if they have a YouTube channel.

AI is a clever tool if used well. but you do need someone with a pulse to create really amazing crochet patterns.

As Petals Fall

🌸 As Petals Fall – A Neck Warmer That Doesn’t Cling

I’ve never been a fan of anything tight around my neck. Even the thought of it makes me feel uncomfortable — so when I started designing the As Petals Fall Neck Warmer, I knew it needed to be loose, soft, and a little different from the usual cowl.

This design is intentionally relaxed in its fit, with a touch of whimsy in its lopsided shape. It doesn’t sit evenly, and it’s not meant to. Instead, it falls into place in its own way. I like things that are unique and a bit different — and I love flowers. As Petals Fall is just like me: slightly romantic, slightly off-centre, and absolutely intentionally unique.

What makes As Petals Fall different?

First — it’s not symmetrical. Symmetrical is boring. This neck warmer has just enough quirk to catch the eye, without being fussy.

Second — it’s tall. Perfect to snuggle into on those freezing days. The height stays the same across all five sizes (30 cm or 12 inches), so you get lovely coverage without it creeping up your face. The only thing that changes between sizes is the length — so whether you want a snugger fit or prefer a looser drape, you can simply size up or down.

There are five sizes: Extra Small through to Extra Large. I do recommend checking the measurements and gauge to find the size that suits you best.

Materials

I work with Bendigo Woollen Mills yarn quite a bit — it’s high-quality and super soft. This design uses Luxury 10 ply in the shades:

• C1 – Koala (main colour)

• C2 – Slate (contrast for edging/embellishment)

You’ll also need:

• 5mm crochet hook

• Tapestry needle

• Scissors

• 1 x 30mm button

A Few Final Thoughts

I loved designing this piece — for me, each design is an expression of who I am. I want to walk through life doing things I love… and I love things that are unique and a little bit different.

As Petals Fall is soft, gentle, and a little off-centre — kind of like me.

If you’re looking for something unique to wear (or gift), something a little romantic, a little textural, and a lot warm — I hope you’ll give this one a go.

❤️
Auburncraft Crochet

Working in Thread: Princess Dee Crochet Choker

Working in Thread: Princess Dee Crochet Choker

I don’t often work in crochet thread, but sometimes, the best results for a design come from choosing a yarn or thread size that showcases the details beautifully.

The Princess Dee choker uses size 10 thread and a 2mm hook. The pattern is simple enough, relying on basic stitches. A filet-style hole is worked into the central row to allow a ribbon to be threaded through. I used a 10mm sage-coloured ribbon to complement the teardrop beads that adorn the piece.

When working with beads, I usually add them as I crochet. However, for this design, the hole in each teardrop bead was too small to thread onto the yarn. Instead, I sewed them on afterward using a thin sewing needle and matching sewing thread.

Tips for the Best Results When Working in Thread

1. Choose your hook wisely
Now is the time to invest in that hook you've always wanted! Cheap aluminium or old steel hooks can make thread work unpleasant. I use Clover Amour hooks and find they suit me best. My 2mm hook had no trouble gripping the finer thread, making the task much more enjoyable.

2. Thread colour matters
The colour you choose can seriously impact how much you enjoy working on the project. For Princess Dee, I wanted a dark blue—almost black—and let me tell you, the struggle to see stitches (especially in low light) is real! If it’s your first time working in thread, choose a lighter colour that makes the stitches easy to see.

3. Tension, tension, tension
Yes, designers are always going on about tension—but in thread work, it truly matters. Uneven tension can make your work look messy. Uniform stitches are what give thread crochet its polished appearance. Take your time, and don’t hesitate to redo a stitch if it doesn’t look neat.

4. Adding the beads
If, like in this project, you need to sew the beads on afterward, be sure to use sewing thread that closely matches your crochet thread. Take your time and sew carefully—neat finishing really elevates the final piece.

Blocking:
Prior to adding the beads I steamed my piece using a cloth placed over the top of it and a steam iron. For thread crochet, steam blocking or pinning and misting with water usually works well.

Care Instructions:
If you're selling or gifting the piece, include care instructions. Thread crochet is delicate—gentle hand-washing and air-drying are usually best. The suggestion to steam the piece is always a good inclusion, but if beads are added, ensure they are avoided during the process

Dragonflies in Amber Scarf/Shawl

Dragonflies in Amber – A Light and Lovely New Design

Let me introduce Dragonflies in Amber—a lightweight wrap or scarf that brings a soft touch of texture and movement to your wardrobe. It’s one of those pieces that looks like it might be complicated but is actually quite straightforward and satisfying to make.

Dragonflies are something of a signature for me. I tend to create at least one or two new dragonfly designs each year, and this time, I just happened to have a cake of Hobbii Sultan Deluxe in Baltic Amber tucked away in my yarn stash.

I wanted the dragonflies to be the feature of this piece—to really stand out—so I worked towards having them appear right in the section of the colour flow that featured the amber.

About the Yarn

Cotton Kings Sultan Deluxe in Baltic Amber is a beautiful gradient that moves from rich, deep tones into a glowing golden centre. To make sure the dragonflies showed up in that amber shade, I started from the outside of the cake and worked inwards. (I did take off a few metres before the amber section to land the placement just right—worth it, I think!)

What You Can Expect

• Format: Both US and UK crochet terminology

• Instructions: Fully written + a condensed symbol graph version

• Gauge: 18 stitches and 12 rows to 10 cm in treble crochet

• Size: 213 cm long (including fringe), 42 cm wide

• Yarn Used: Approx. 900 m (1 x 250g Sultan Deluxe cake)

• Hook Size: 3.5 mm

Who It’s For

This pattern suits intermediate crocheters or very confident beginners.

The pattern has been tested by a lovely group of crocheters with varying levels of experience, and I’m so grateful for their time and feedback. Their input helped refine the instructions and make sure everything flows smoothly from start to finish.

Grab Your Copy

Dragonflies in Amber is now available on [Ravelry/Etsy/etc.]. I’d love to see what colours you choose and how your version turns out—please do share your photos if you’d like to

The Garden Path Scarf

Wandering Down the Garden Path

If you’ve followed me for a while, you’ll know that I love flowers—and I also love things that are just a little bit different. I like to create designs that are unique. The Garden Path scarf brings both of those things together. This design is meant to bring out the whimsy in all of us.

With this piece, I wanted to create something that felt like a walk through a garden in full bloom—and I think I’ve achieved that with this design. It’s made to wrap around the neck twice and fasten with a simple button—handmade from yarn, of course! The flower stems are created as you work the main section of the scarf, and later, the long-stemmed flower heads are sewn in place. And to really make it pop, a row of tiny blooms blossoms along one edge. I also couldn’t resist adding leaves wrapped around the post stitches that form the stems—these bring lovely texture and a whimsical finish.

The pattern itself is quite straightforward. The main body is worked in simple stitches, making it a relaxing and enjoyable project. It’s the finishing touches—the flowers, the leaves, the colour choices—that really make it come to life. Like many of my designs, this one leans into my love of creating something that feels unique and full of personality.

Pattern details at a glance:

• Terminology: Pattern includes both US and UK crochet terms

• Format: Fully written instructions plus condensed symbol graph versions

• Hook size: 3.5 mm

• Yarn: Hobbii Friends Extra Fine Merino – soft, smooth, and gorgeous to work with. (click here for supplier)

  Colours used:

I used seven colours in total. The main shade is a soft, grounding neutral, and then I layered in gentle pinks, golds, and greens to let the flowers really shine.

Measurements (if you're matching gauge):

• Length: 166 cm / 65.3 inches

• Width (including the edging): 27 cm / 10.6 inches

This scarf is a fantastic statement piece for those cold winter days. It was an absolute joy to create, and I hope you enjoy it just as much. So go ahead—bring a little whimsy into your world and create your own Garden Path.

The Language of Tulips Blanket

The Language of Tulips Blanket

This is a hexagonal blanket full of texture, detail, and—of course—tulips. The idea for this one was rattling around in the small space I call my brain for quite a while, and I’m so pleased with how it’s come together.

Tulips are said to represent perfect love, and they quietly exude their own form of elegance and expression. I tried to capture that in the stitches, with petals that pop and curves that flow—all contained within a hexagonal shape that gives the blanket lovely structure and visual interest.

But just a heads-up—this pattern leans to the more advanced side. It’s definitely not a TV crochet project! There are post stitches, popcorns, and a good bit of shaping going on to create all those layered details. If you love texture and don’t mind focusing a bit, this one’s for you.

I used Bendigo Woollen Mills 8ply cotton, and it was perfect for the design—the soft, cotton creates beautiful stitch definition. Plus, they offer a fantastic colour range, which is ideal for picking your own unique tulip shades.

The pattern includes full written instructions and a symbol graph. I’ve done my best to keep everything clear and methodical, so even if you’re new to some of the techniques, you’ll have a solid guide.

My fabulous team of testers were amazing with this piece—they helped refine and polish the pattern so it’s the best it can be. 💛

If you make one, I’d absolutely love to see your version! Tag me on socials or use the hashtag #LanguageOfTulipsBlanket so I can admire your work. It would make a gorgeous gift—or just something special to keep for yourself (because we all deserve that).

Hope you enjoy making it as much as I enjoyed designing it!

For information on materials, head to the webpage dedicated to the pattern.

I do not offer full video tutorials for my patterns, but you can find a short video featuring the split post stitch on my Youtube.

Neapolitan Harmony Scarf

Neapolitan Harmony – A Sweet Little Scarf

I like ice cream!

And while I’m a little on the boring side (I do love a good old-fashioned vanilla), you could definitely tempt me with a bit of Neapolitan instead.

I think the day the brief popped up from Hobbii calling for designs inspired by harmony, I may have been hungry. I started browsing yarns and landed on Pearly Haze by Hobbii—which, with my colour choices, looked suspiciously like ice cream. What’s more harmonious than Neapolitan ice cream? Those flavours go so well together. So I figured—why not combine that with crochet?

Inspired by the soft stripes of vanilla, strawberry, and chocolate, I set about creating this scarf as a wearable, textural piece that’s light, fun, and a bit of a treat.

It’s a simple construction—just a long rectangle—with some cables and colour changes added in. Think of it as relaxing crochet with just enough going on to keep things interesting. I finished it off with a lacy-style edging along one long side for a little extra flair.

The scarf is designed to button at the neck. You could absolutely use a store-bought button, but I decided to keep the ice cream theme going and made a button from the yarn itself. (Because why not?)

You can of course choose your own colour combo (I’d love to see a pistachio version!), but the classic Neapolitan shades really hit the sweet spot for me—pun fully intended.

The pattern includes full written instructions in both US and UK terminology, a symbol graph, and plenty of pictures to guide you along the way.

If you give it a go, I’d love to see your version! Tag me or use the hashtag #NeapolitanHarmonyScarf so I don’t miss it.

Crochet, ice cream, and harmony—what more could you want?

Visit the dedicated webpage for the pattern for materials etc.

Why Choose Linked Stitches?

I love working in linked stitches!

I hear people at times state that they find crochet when using stitches like double crochet (US), to be too open. You get that little gap between the stitches and this is not suitable for many projects/

A linked stitch eliminates that gap and creates a dense appearance to the work.

So what are linked stitches, anyway?

They’re basically a variation of your taller stitches—like half double crochet, double crochet, treble, and so on—but instead of starting each one with a yarn over like usual, you "link" it into the previous stitch. It’s a small change, but it totally transforms the fabric.

Why I love them (and you might too):

✨ No More Gaps

One of the biggest complaints about tall stitches (especially double crochet and taller) is that they can look a bit holey. This might be fine for lacy projects, but if you’re aiming for warmth, structure, or a more knit-like look, those gaps can be a pain.

✨ A Dense appearance and really neat

Linked stitches give you a dense, almost knit-like texture, which is especially great in designs like the Checkerboard Symphony Scarf. They help stitches sit straighter and behave better (we all want well-behaved stitches, right?).

✨ They're Not Hard, Promise

If you’re comfy with a regular double crochet, you’re already 90% of the way there. The only new trick is that you’re inserting your hook into a little horizontal bar from the stitch before. It feels weird for about two stitches, then it clicks.

✨ when to use them

• When you want a warmer, denser fabric (winter scarves)

• If you’re looking for a more knit-like finish but don’t want to actually turn to the dark side and KNIT

• To stop tall stitches from leaning all over the place

• Anywhere you’d usually use a double or treble (US) crochet, but want it to look a bit neater.

✨ They really are easy

Next time you’re working on something with tall stitches, try swapping in linked ones for a few rows and see what you think. I’d recommend checking out the Grandma Bed Scarf if you want something simple and sentimental to practise with, or the Checkerboard Symphony Scarf if you’re in the mood for a bit more drama and some colour work

They can be addictive. You’ll be wondering why they’re not more commonly used.

✨ what to use them on

• Blankets and scarves where warmth and structure are a priority

• Garments where you want a sleeker, more knit-like finish

• Bags and baskets that need to stand up on their own

For a photo tutorial on how to create a linked double crochet (click here).

Tanjil Bren Shawl

Tanjil Bren Shawl – A Special Tribute in Filet Crochet

Some projects are more than just stitches and patterns—they hold memories, stories, and a little piece of our hearts. My latest design, the Tanjil Bren Shawl, is one of those. It’s inspired by my late mother-in-law and the special memories of Tanjil Bren, a little town she loved, tucked below the snow fields of Mt Baw Baw.

A Design with Meaning

The Tanjil Bren Shawl is a filet crochet triangle shawl, with the increase happening only on one side, giving it a unique shape. The design features a flower motif, adding a delicate, lacy feel. I used two strands of yarn held together, which gives it a lovely texture while keeping it light and airy. This one’s an intermediate-level pattern—just enough to keep things interesting without being too tricky!

The Naming of the Shawl

When I think of my mother-in-law, this small town often pops into my head. My late mother-in-law loved skiing—Mt Baw Baw was a frequent haunt for her and my father-in-law. She always loved the stop we made at Tanjil Bren, the little town tucked below the snow fields.

I went on many trips to Mt Baw Baw and always looked forward to the hot chocolate we’d get when we stopped at Tanjil Bren before heading up to the snow. It’s one of those places that instantly reminds me of her, so when it came time to name this shawl, it just felt right.

As the design grew on my hook, its light and snow-like quality made me think of my mother-in-law and this tiny town. The name just felt right.

The pattern is now available—happy crocheting!

The Ever After Rose Shawl – A Touch of Elegance with a Crochet Hook

Every so often, a project comes along that makes me feel like I should be sitting in a fancy manor, sipping tea from fine china, while effortlessly crocheting something delicate and dreamy. Enter the Ever After Rose Shawl—my latest design, inspired by romance, weddings, and just a touch of fairy tale charm.

The Idea 🌹

When Hobbii Yarns announced their Spring Celebrations, I knew I wanted to create something special—something that felt timeless yet wearable, delicate yet practical. And let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a good excuse to play with luxury yarn?

Brides, bridesmaids, and anyone who loves a little romance in their wardrobe—this one’s for you. Imagine this draped over a wedding gown, a garden party dress, or even a casual outfit that needs a hint of elegance, this shawl was designed to add that soft, ethereal touch.

The Yarn

I chose Hobbii Alpaca Silk for this design, and let me tell you—if clouds could be spun into yarn, they would feel like this. It’s light, airy, and has just the right amount of sheen to catch the light beautifully. Perfect for a floaty, dreamy effect!

Of course, working with such fine yarn does mean embracing a bit of patience. But hey, what’s a love story without a little effort, right?

The Stitches – A Floral Touch

The delicate roses in this shawl aren’t just pretty—they’re created using a unique stitch combination that gives them real texture and depth. And because I like to make things extra special, the outer edges feature one of my exclusive Auburncraft Crochet Design stitches.

Not to worry, though! If you’re wondering "How on earth do I crochet those?", I’ve got you covered. I have short tutorial videos on my YouTube channel to walk you through the techniques—no fairy godmother required.

Perfect for Special Moments (or Just Because!)

While this shawl was designed with weddings in mind, you don’t need to walk down any aisles to make or wear one. Whether it’s for a big day, a gift, or just because! Ever After Rose is one of those pieces that will always feel special.

So, if you’re ready to crochet you own Ever After, grab your yarn and hook—and crochet!

#sponsored

This pattern is now available as a Hobbii Plus Design. Use this link to visit the pattern on Hobbii. Click here.

Click here for a link to the yarn

New Design: Dragonfly Tranquility Blanket

Quite a few years ago, I started my design journey with a simple dragonfly design. That little idea soon took on a life of its own, with many designers and crocheters recreating it in different forms. These days, I doubt many realise I was the first to design this basic pattern that is now used so much.

Over time, I tweaked the dragonfly to make it distinctly an Auburncraft Crochet Design. Now, in 2025, I have several patterns featuring dragonflies, and every now and then, I come up with another one. This time, I’m happy to introduce the Dragonfly Tranquility Blanket.

As always, it features my signature dragonflies and can be used in so many ways. It would make a lovely Christening blanket or baby gift, or even a beautiful tablecloth or centrepiece.

I hope you enjoy making this design as much as I enjoyed creating it!

POS Syndrome!

Well, I knew there was a syndrome for everything these days, and today, I’ve discovered I’m suffering from POS—Pattern Overload Syndrome.

Sounds serious!

Well… it could be.

Definition of POS (Pattern Overload Syndrome):

To be officially diagnosed, the following criteria must apply:

• You must be a crochet designer.

• You must have at least three reasonably complicated designs in the testing phase.

• You must have at least one pattern ready (or overdue) for launch.

• You must have signed on to design at least one more pattern for a company.

• You must have at least three additional designs in progress—because why stop at chaos?

• You must, at least once daily, stare at a tester’s corrections, take a moment, and then desperately try to remember which pattern they’re talking about.

• You must have at least ten more design ideas swirling in your brain, just waiting to derail your focus.

• You must be actively contemplating the best approach for at least two new designs.

• Your brain must have, at some point, attempted to go on strike.

If you meet all these criteria… congratulations! You, too, may be suffering from POS.

Now, if only there were a cure that didn’t involve frogging my sanity…

*Picture shows my latest release: Heart to Heart Scarf

Valentines Day is Almost Here

Valentine’s Day is looming ever closer, and my latest design was made especially for this special occasion. The Heart to Heart Scarf is no ordinary scarf—it's worked in the round to create a super warm, tubular-style scarf, adorned with hearts, of course!

Pom-poms are attached to the ends, adding an extra touch of flair to the design.

The Heart to Heart Scarf was created as part of Hobbii Yarns' Basics yarn campaign. A huge thank you to Hobbii for the lovely Friends Cotton Silk yarn!

I was pleasantly surprised at how enjoyable this yarn is to work with.

Please follow this link to view Hobbii Friends Cotton Silk (click here).

Yarn stats are as follows:

23 Colours

77% Cotton, 23% Silk

• Weight:

  50 g (1.75 oz)

• Yarn Length:

  120 m (131 yds)

• Yarn Weight:

  Light

"Love isn't measured in grand gestures but in the quiet moments—warm hands, knowing smiles, and the unspoken promise of always... but it’s also measured in yarn, stitch by stitch, wrapping hearts in warmth." Happy Valentines Day!

Stolen!

Picture just for attention

Today I am slightly on the grumpy side!

Yet another one of my designs has been stolen and is now popping up on some random webpage. This is likely another scam where someone tries to purchase the design, pays the money, and ends up with nothing.

This particular design seems to have made an impression—it’s been copied and posted in seven different places. They must really like it! Sigh.

When I first began designing and discovered my very first pattern had been stolen, I was devastated. I remember being reduced to tears, sobbing uncontrollably into my yarn stash. Now, I just think, “Great, time to file yet another DMCA takedown notice.” It’s frustrating, and often feels futile. Even if the stolen content is removed, these thieves just set up another page and carry on as if nothing happened.

Some of these scammers are so brazen that they even steal genuine customer reviews from legitimate platforms to make themselves seem credible.

The impact of stolen patterns on designers is very real. I spend hundreds of hours creating each design, and once I’ve completed a pattern, it goes to my testers—an incredible group who invest their own time and energy to ensure the final product is clear, accurate, and enjoyable for customers. This is no small task, especially for my more unique designs, and it’s a labor of love for all involved.

When someone steals and sells these patterns illegally, it creates a domino effect that hurts not just me, but everyone who contributes to the process.

I’m always happy to help anyone who has purchased a pattern from me through legitimate platforms. However, I do ask where the pattern was purchased. If it turns out the pattern was obtained from a stolen source, I cannot provide support. While I sympathize with those who might not realize they’ve been scammed, I won’t enable or assist in the theft of my copyrighted work.

To buyers: please take care to support your favorite designers by purchasing only from trusted platforms. This not only ensures you’re receiving a quality product but also helps keep small designers in business.

If you need help with a pattern, always let the designer know where you purchased it from and, if possible, provide proof of purchase. Don’t feel offended if this is requested—it’s just part of safeguarding the hard work that goes into every design.

Pantone Colour of the Year 2025

Pantone’s Colour of the Year for 2025 is Mocha Mousse, a warm brown that’s been described as “comforting” and “timeless.” Sure, it’s earthy and neutral, but really, it’s brown. Like cup-of-coffee brown, or last-biscuit-in-the-tin brown. The kind no one’s excited about but still eats. They’re calling it grounding, but some might call it… safe? And I guess, when it comes right down to it, dirt is sort of brown, so they could be right.

To be fair, I do love me some nice autumnal tones, and Mocha Mousse does have its perks. It’s versatile—it goes well with creams, looks great with orange tones, and even—choke, splutter—the dreaded greens. According to Google, it’s also trending in the sustainability world, which is very on-brand for 2025.

So, what’s the verdict on it? Mocha Mousse may not be the worlds most exciting of colours and certainly not as amazing as Pantone Colour of the Year 2023, Viva Magenta, but I guess I can live with it. It’s not GREEN, and that is always a good thing!

I’m heading straight for the yarn stash to grab all the browns I can find. In 2025 I shall be a Style Maven. What’s that you ask?

Style Maven: An expert or connoisseur of fashion and aesthetics.

Sounds pretty impressive!

I shall be on trend for sure!

Off to find my scarf design, I Should Have Used Mothballs’ It’s perfect for 2025

Lavender Reverie Scarf

I have a love for things that are different, unique, and one of a kind—and sometimes my designs reflect just that. My mind is constantly playing with ideas, looking for ways to create something just a little bit outside the ordinary.

Quite some time ago, I purchased some beautiful Blackwattle 4ply yarn. It’s been patiently waiting for just the right design to come along—and finally, its moment arrived!

Lavender Reverie started out as a simple straight scarf, but that just didn’t feel unique enough to me. So, I decided to add a little twist—a step in the pattern. Now, it meanders in and out, giving it that extra touch of pizazz.

For the edging, I wanted something subtle yet special. The steps are the main feature, after all. A simple edge with large, loopy-style flowers turned out to be just what it needed to complete the look.

The Blackwattle yarn brought it all together, creating a scarf that’s lightweight, versatile, and perfect for showcasing the filet crochet style.

I hope you fall in love with Lavender Reverie just as much as I have!

The pattern is available on Ravelry, Etsy or you can purchase via my dedicated webpage. For more information about materials, visit the webpage for the pattern.

Black Friday Frenzy: A Yarn Enthusiast’s Survival Guide

Read on for information on Auburncraft Crochet Design Black Friday Deals

It’s that time of year again—Black Friday. A day of chaos, discounts, and questionable life choices. But for us crochet enthusiasts, this isn’t about battling for a 75-inch TV or a toaster that doubles as a sandwich maker. No, this is about yarn. Glorious, soft, beautifully discounted yarn. And maybe a few hooks or stitch markers we absolutely don’t need but will convince ourselves we do.

So, here’s my guide to navigating Black Friday, crochet style:

1. Start with a Game Plan (and Coffee)

Before you even think about clicking "Add to Cart," make a list of what you need—or at least what you’ll pretend you need. Is it yarn for your next big project? Hooks to replace the ones that seem to hide, probably with all those missing socks. ? Or maybe patterns (ahem, like my Vintage Dragonfly Masquerade pattern wink wink)?

2. Set a Budget (And Then Pretend to Stick to It)

Let’s be honest—yarn math is different. If one skein is 30% off, buying ten is practically making money, right? Just remember, your wallet isn’t a magic pouch from a fantasy novel.

3. Beware of the “I’ll Use It Someday” Trap

That neon orange yarn might look like a steal now, but unless you’re planning to crochet a traffic cone cozy, maybe skip it.

4. Shop Small and Support Makers

Vintage Dragonfly Masquerade Blanket

Sure, big box stores have tempting deals, but don’t forget about the small businesses and indie designers (like me!) who pour their hearts into their work. Speaking of which, I’m running a 20% off sale on all my crochet patterns on Ravelry and Esty this Black Friday! (bundles and ebooks excluded). It’s the perfect time to snag that pattern you’ve had your eye on—like the Checkerboard Symphony Shawl. The discounts will be available with the code ‘Black Friday’ from today and until 1st December. Aussie time of course!

5. Brace for the Yarn Overload

Remember, yarn takes up space. You’ll need somewhere to store your haul—or a really good explanation why your living space looks like something out of a Star Trek episode. You know the one where the tribbles multiply and take over the ship!

6. Treat Yourself

It’s not selfish to snag a little something just for you. Whether it’s a new pattern (hint, hint) a special hook, or the softest skein of merino wool, you deserve it.

Bonus Tip: The Post-Black Friday Clean-Up Once the adrenaline wears off, organize your haul, dream up your next project, and bask in the glory of your savings. Or just curl up with your new yarn, a cozy blanket, and start crocheting.

Have fun, shop smart, and charge!

Checkerboard Symphony Shawl

UK vs. US Crochet Terms: It’s Not You, It’s the Stitches

Okay, picture this: you’re working on a crochet pattern, feeling all confident, and then… BAM! You realise the scarf you are making is going to span a football field and looks nothing like the picture. What the?

Chances are, you’ve been caught in the vortex of the Great Crochet Terminology Divide—aka the difference between UK and US crochet terms.

But it’s okay. Don’t panic! It’s not your fault. It’s just that UK and US crocheters decided to call the same stitches completely different names. Why? Who knows.

From a designer point of view, I think it’s so I have to do more work in offering both US and UK terminology. It’s painful!

The main difference between the terms seems to be how the stitches are defined:

• In the UK, the stitch name reflects the number of yarn overs and loops pulled through to create the stitch.

• In the US, the stitch name reflects its relative height compared to other stitches.

  Examples:

• What the UK calls a double crochet (dc) involves pulling through two loops twice.

• The US calls it a single crochet (sc) because it’s the shortest stitch in height.

What that means:

• In the US, the simplest stitch is the single crochet (sc).

• But in the UK, that same stitch doesn’t exist! Instead, their simplest stitch is the double crochet (dc).

Every UK stitch is one step up compared to its US counterpart.

Mind-boggling, right?

Check this out:

US Term UK Term

Single Crochet (sc) Doesn’t Exist

Double Crochet (dc) Treble Crochet (tr)

Treble Crochet (tr) Double Treble (dtr)

Double treble Crochet (dtr) Triple Treble Crochet (trtr)

How Do You Know Which to Use?

Most designers will state in the pattern which terminology is used.

Don’t assume that the designer’s nationality dictates which crochet terminology they use. For example, as an Australian designer, it might be expected that I would naturally write in UK terminology. However, I personally prefer US terminology.

I write all my patterns in US terms and then translate them into UK terms for accessibility. Ultimately, the choice of terminology is a personal one, and every designer may have their own preference.

1. Check the origin of the pattern: US pattern? US terms. UK pattern? UK terms. Look for a terminology note:

2. Most patterns will tell you upfront if they’re in US or UK terms (thank goodness!).

3. I f the pattern contains single crochet, then it is an instant given that the pattern is written in US terminology.

So, there you have it—the mystery of UK vs. US crochet terms solved! Now you can grab your hook, choose your preferred terminology, and crochet.

Checkerboard Symphony Shawl/Scarf

Checkerboard Symphony combines vibrant colors and linked stitches to create a statement piece you can be proud of.

This design came about as a way to use up leftover yarns from previous projects. I had quite a bit of Stylecraft Batik from designs like the Tirari Desert Flower Ruana and Leadlight Blanket, so I decided to use them to create Checkerboard Symphony.

This is a great project for using up scrap yarns in DK weight.

The pattern features linked stitches to create a dense, gap-free fabric. If you’re unfamiliar with this stitch, I’ve included some helpful tips in the "How To" section on my website.

Since the design involves frequent colour changes, I’ve used the tapestry technique throughout to ensure clean, seamless transitions.

The finished shawl/scarf is quite long and wide, so I recommend checking your gauge before you begin. A difference in stitch height could lead to a longer finished piece.

For further information about Material and to see more pictures, click on the pattern webpage button below.

Winter Enchantress Neck Warmer

Winter enchantress neck warmer

Spring days in Australia are slowly creeping toward the inevitable summer heat, but this is not the case for much of the other side of the world.

Winter is calling!

My new design was inspired by the tale of The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, with the White Witch as the main focus.

The moment I put on my freshly finished neck warmer, I truly felt like an enchantress, stepping into the magical world of Narnia.

The neck warmer is made from Hobbii Soft Alpaca, and I have to say that not only is this yarn super soft and cozy, but it also adds to the whimsy of the piece and perfectly suits the fun style. Spirals, leaves, and tendrils of yarn create the warm fringe.

Winter can be a dreary time, with days full of gray. Sometimes it feels like it could go on forever, much like the 100 years of winter created by the White Witch of Narnia, but there is always room for a little bit of magic.

For further information on materials for this pattern, click the link to the webpage dedicated to it.