Crochet Podcast 171: Fun and Easy Crochet Patterns 2025 Highlights

Crochet Podcast 171: Fun and Easy Crochet Patterns 2025 Highlights!

I can hardly believe it’s already September. The summer seemed to slip by in a flash, but this year it left me extra inspired—and with a surprising pile of finished crochet projects! I planned to relax with my kids, but the cooler weather got my hook working overtime. Today, I’m sharing all the highlights from my latest podcast episode, including new patterns, personal projects, and some creative problem-solving that might help on your own crochet journey.

Summer Changes and Crochet Reflections

Where did the summer go? When cooler days showed up early, I found myself increasingly drawn to my yarn. Inspiration hit, hooks flew, and by the end of August, I’d crocheted far more than I ever set out to. Now, with September here, I feel renewed—both with creative energy and excitement to share what I’ve made.

Spotlight: The Flower Bouquet Poncho

Let’s kick things off with my most recent finished object: the Flower Bouquet Poncho. I’m obsessed with how it turned out!

Features of the Flower Bouquet Poncho:

• Beautiful, crisp boat neckline that sits flat and comfortable.
• Straight, clean panel construction that flatters every shape.
• Eye-catching floral bouquet motif at the bottom hem—bunch it up for a statement or wear long for a classy finish.
• Includes a written pattern, full tutorial, and photo support.

This piece has become a staple in my fall wardrobe. If you want something chic yet cozy, it’s a must-try.

Why Granny Squares Became My Summer Obsession

“Granny squares are perfect for summer crocheting. You’re not sitting under a heavy project, just enjoying small bursts of creativity.”

With many of you in the Southern Hemisphere, I know cooler months mean snuggly projects, but in much of the world, summer is for lighter makes. I dove into a granny square binge because they’re portable, low-commitment, and just—fun.

The Original Log Cabin Granny Square

One of my favorite creations is the original Log Cabin Granny Square. This pattern keeps things classic yet fresh:

Log Cabin Granny Square Highlights:

1. Built one side at a time for that true log cabin feel.
2. Mix and match colors for endless variation.
3. Satisfyingly geometric—great for blankets and statement throws.
4. Easy tutorial already available to walk you through every step.

I’ve never had so much fun stacking colors in new ways while keeping everything flat and square.

Mix & Match Granny Square Collection

This summer wasn’t just about one square. I went wild! Here’s the roster of mix and match granny squares I put together (and yes, most have tutorials or are coming soon):

The Stacking A-frame granny square is particularly clever: you work two sides at a time (like the “roof” of a log cabin), which means half the tails compared to traditional log cabins. Each square is designed to match seamlessly in a five-round configuration, so you can mix patterns and colors without hassle.

Curious what’s coming next? The A-frame release is around the corner, so keep your eyes peeled.

Pattern Release Scheduling: Your Feedback Matters

I love hearing which patterns and tutorials you’re most excited about. Sometimes release order depends on how fast I can finish the writing, so let me know in the comments which squares you want posted first! Your feedback is a huge motivator for me.

Inspiration, Ethics, and an Etsy Request

Recently, someone sent a request for help with a Mickey Mouse crochet pattern (with author permission). As much as I love helping fellow crocheters, I declined due to copyright concerns. I keep myself focused on original designs, with a strong boundary never to copy other creators’ work—even for teaching. That’s how I stay truly creative: working from my own ideas and sharing only my vision.

“It’s all about inspiration, not imitation. Staying in my own headspace helps me stay original.”

Mickey Mouse Granny Squares: Finding the Perfect Formula

Designing my own Mickey Mouse-inspired granny square became a challenge in itself. The evolution went something like this:

• The first try was a rectangle and looked, honestly, like a hot mess.
• Next, I switched to pink and green yarn for visibility, but stitch counts were still off.
• After several car trips (and soccer games), I got closer, switching rounds and stitches, trying treble crochet, and adapting until a proper square took shape.
• The final version—finally square, balanced, and with ears that actually looked like Mickey—felt like a triumph.

This journey made me appreciate the patience and tinkering each new pattern needs.

Small vs. Big Mickey: Which Square Wins?

Once I had solid Mickey squares, I tried two styles:

• Small Mickey Square: Simple, more Mickey motifs, less background color.
• Big Mickey Square with Border: Larger motif, more white space, and a nice frame.

Tell me in the comments: do you like the simple, small Mickey or the big, bold one? Just reply “S” for small or “M” for medium.

Getting a Smooth Finish: Join As You Go

I used the continuous join as you go (JAYGO) technique for my Mickey granny squares. This method joins them together as you make the final round, keeping the result perfectly square with very little warping—and only two ends to weave in for the join!

The Andy Warhol-Inspired Neon Mickey Blanket

Ready for something wild? After a live chat brainstorm, I decided to turn my Mickey squares into a pop-art explosion. Inspired by Andy Warhol’s iconic colorful portraits, I created a neon, psychedelic Mickey Mouse granny square blanket.

• Each square pops with vibrant color, arranged in a grid reminiscent of Warhol’s multi-color Marilyn Monroe prints.
• The border is bold, with “ear” motifs in the corners for extra character.
• After lots of experimentation (in the car, at the dentist—everywhere!), I landed on a frame that highlights the bright center and pulls the piece together.
• For this project, I used one ball each of five bright colors and three balls of white.

I filmed a full tutorial for this blanket, so watch for it in the coming weeks.

Quick Andy Warhol Context: Warhol was a revolutionary 1960s/70s artist, known for repeating ordinary images (like soup cans or actors’ faces) in bold, new colors. His style of remixing the familiar into the extraordinary helped shape the entire project.

My Thanks to Channel Members: Why Every Little Bit Helps

Thank you so much if you’re a Secret Yarnery channel member. Membership may have changed over the years, but the heart of it is always the same: your support lets me improve my videos, get new equipment, and buy more yarn—sometimes even feeding my kids!

Channel Membership Perks:

• Your name featured in podcast shoutouts
• Special emojis in live chats and comments
• Extra visibility and connection in our crochet family

If membership isn’t for you, there are other ways to support the community: watch videos all the way through, share on social media, avoid skipping ads, and recommend the channel to friends. Every little bit helps grow our crochet circle.

A Beginner Crochet Tutorial Is Coming Soon

I’m working on a complete beginner crochet tutorial—perfect to share with anyone who’s ever asked, “Can you show me how to start?” I hope to have it ready by October. If you know someone eager to pick up their first hook, keep an eye out and get ready to send this video their way!

Fall Crochet Ideas: What Do You Want Next?

What should we crochet this fall? Pumpkins? Scarves? Let me know your seasonal project requests or tutorial ideas in the comments. I’m planning some chunky yarn pumpkin projects that I can’t wait to show. Share your inspiration too—there’s always room for new ideas.

Leveling Up My Filming Setup Thanks to You

A big recent upgrade: a real 4K camera. I started filming crochet tutorials with whatever camera we had, taping a tripod to the window, trying to work around the neighborhood’s lawn mower schedule. Now, my improved equipment (thanks to support from you!) brings crisper, brighter videos every week.

One special announcement: I’ve put together the “marble stack tote” tutorials (originally a 3-part series from 10 years ago) into a single, easy-to-watch video. It’s encouraging to see just how far everything has come along.

Marble Stack Tote: A Bit of Crochet Nostalgia

This tote is a classic Secret Yarnery project:

Project steps:

1. Single crochet a solid bottom (sized to fit a grocery tray).
2. Work up the sides in the Moroccan tile (marble stack) stitch.
3. Attach handles and add handmade buttons—no extra hardware needed.

Now you can access the entire process in one place, and see the difference in camera quality over time. It’s a practical and pretty bag, perfect for everyday use or gifting.

Family Spotlight: Anthony’s Crochet Adventures

My youngest, Anthony, caught the crochet bug this summer, too! His finished projects and growing yarn stash are making me smile.

The “Drip” Scarf and Learning About Tails

Anthony made a scarf in his favorite colors: white, tan, and gray. The edges are mostly straight, though there were a few frog-backs along the way. New crocheters often debate how to deal with yarn tails—Anthony’s current approach was to just cut them off (yikes!), so we’ve got a bit of sewing to do. Stitch markers also became his friend during this project, keeping the stitches in line.

Quick tip: Always teach kids to weave in their tails for a sturdy finish!

The Big Chenille Blanket

Next came a super chunky blanket, worked with a massive 12mm hook and thick chenille yarn. It’s as wide as a bed runner now and growing by the week—Anthony’s favorite stitch is half double crochet. At first, he wanted to bring the whole thing to school, but it quickly became too big for that.

He started with a plan to alternate green with multicolored yarn but decided to stick with the full cake for the main body and maybe an orange border for a punch of color.

Pumpkins for Fall: Inspiration Strikes Again

Seeing the bold, chunky yarn, I suddenly thought—this is perfect for quick chenille pumpkins! If you’re into speedy fall décor projects, stay tuned. I’m planning to whip some up with a 10mm hook, and maybe the whole family will be involved.

Why There Was No Live Chat (and When to Join Next Time)

For those wondering about the missing Friday live, we had a school parent night! Balancing my role as crochet enthusiast and mom comes first, but I’m always looking forward to the next live chat. Our regular time is Friday at 5pm UTC+3. Whether you’re in the US, Europe, or Australia, there’s a spot for you in our global community.

Messy Room, Creative Mind

Confession: my craft room is a mess right now. But isn’t that part of the process? When creativity is flowing, sometimes tidying up has to wait. I’m eyeing an “optical illusion” granny square pattern next—something that draws you in, like a trick of the eye.

What’s your current project or creative mess? Share in the comments and make me feel better about my own pile!

Stay Engaged: Let’s Build Our Crochet Community

Let’s keep the conversation going:

• What are you working on now?
• Anything you want to see in an upcoming tutorial?
• Got a burning crochet question? Drop it below!

I always read your comments and get inspired by your ideas and feedback.

Where to Find Patterns & Tutorials

Here are some places to keep up with the patterns and tutorials mentioned:

• Find plenty of free and printable PDF patterns on the Patterns page.
• Explore blanket inspiration with detailed crochet blanket patterns.
• For step-by-step video walkthroughs, see my YouTube crochet tutorials playlist.
• If you’re eager for more quick inspiration, read 15 Fun Crochet Projects to Try in 2025.
• My Secret Yarnery homepage is always your starting point for easy crochet patterns and video inspiration.

Yarn and Tool Suggestions

A quick word on my favorite supplies:

• My recommended yarn can be found here on Amazon.
• Go-to crochet hooks are available here.
• For sharp tip needles, these are my pick.

You can also browse my top supplies in the Amazon store for all my favorites. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases, which helps support the channel and keep the free content coming your way.

Ways to Support The Secret Yarnery

You don’t have to be a member to help the community grow! Here are a few other ways to show your support:

• Let the videos play to the end and don’t skip ads.
• Share videos and patterns on your social networks.
• Recommend my channel to anyone learning to crochet.
• Take part in live chats and leave your feedback.

Community support in any form keeps the ideas flowing and the yarn spinning.

Crochet Techniques and Troubleshooting: Quick Guide

Throughout these projects, I’ve tackled:

• Treble and half double crochet stitches
• Multiple variations of mix-and-match granny squares
• Managing yarn tails and using stitch markers for accuracy
• Continuous join as you go for cleaner, faster finishing
• Creative border ideas themed to each project

The repeated lesson: don’t be afraid to rip out and start again if you’re not happy. Customization and a willingness to problem-solve always result in better, personal projects.

What’s Next for Fall (and Beyond)

I’m drawn to autumn projects: chunky pumpkin decor, new variations of granny squares, and maybe even more playful pop art-inspired blankets. If there’s a seasonal project you want to see, tag it in the comments. Your wish list inspires the next rounds of videos and tutorials.

Family, Crochet, and Everyday Balance

Life with creative kids means squeezing in crafting time between school events, sports, and family errands. I’m always inspired seeing my children pick up yarn and try, and it’s wonderful to share in their learning curve, mistakes included.

Keep Experimenting and Sharing

If there’s one message I want every crocheter to remember: don’t fret the mistakes. Every pattern is a work in progress. Whether it’s teaching my kids to use stitch markers, embracing colorful yarn combinations, or improving each setup for better videos, it’s all one big creative adventure.

Let’s Stay Hooked Together

Share your latest projects or favorite color combos in the comments—I’d love to hear from fellow crocheters around the world! Subscribe on YouTube, join our next live chat, or pop into a Friday session to get your questions answered in real time.

Don’t forget: every hook, every stitch, every “frog it and try again” moment counts. Stay hooked, keep sharing, and let’s make this fall our most creative season yet!

Frequently Asked Questions

What yarn did you use for the Flower Bouquet Poncho?

I used medium-weight yarn that holds shape and drape. Any soft acrylic or acrylic blend works. Check the pattern page for exact yardage and hook size.

Is there a tutorial for the Flower Bouquet Poncho?

Yes. Here it is.

Are the granny squares in the mix-and-match collection the same size?

Yes. They’re designed as five-round squares so you can mix styles without resizing.

What is a Log Cabin Granny Square?

It’s built one side at a time to create a log-cabin look. You add color “logs” around the center instead of working in full rounds.

Is there a tutorial for the Log Cabin Granny Square?

Yes, here it is

What is the Stacking A-frame square?

It’s a variation that works two sides at a time, like a roof shape. It reduces tails and still matches the five-round set.

Is there a Stacking A-frame tutorial? 

Yes. Here it is

How do I join granny squares neatly?

Use the continuous join as you go (JAYGO). It keeps your blanket flat and saves time, with only two ends to weave for the join.

How do I keep my squares perfectly square?

Block your squares, check stitch counts each round, and avoid tightening corners. A consistent hook size and yarn weight also help.

Can I make the Mickey-inspired squares?

Yes, but only with original designs. I don’t teach or share copyrighted character patterns from other designers. I share my own version and techniques.

Small or big Mickey square, which is better?

Choose small for more motifs and a tighter, playful look. Choose big with a border for bold impact and open space.

What colors did you use for the Warhol-inspired blanket?

One ball each of five bright colors plus three balls of white. Pick neon or high-contrast shades for the pop-art effect.

Will there be a full tutorial for the Warhol-inspired blanket?

Yes, it’s filmed and coming soon. Subscribe and turn on notifications to catch it.

What hook size works for chunky chenille pumpkins?

Try a 10 mm hook with super bulky chenille. Keep tension snug so stuffing doesn’t peek through.

How can beginners start crocheting?

I have a complete beginner tutorial coming in October. It covers holding the hook, basic stitches, and a first project.

How do I deal with yarn tails?

Never cut them short. Weave tails into the stitch paths in at least two directions for strength.

How do stitch markers help beginners?

They mark the first or last stitch of the row or round to keep edges straight and stitch counts accurate.

I’m Christa, the crocheter behind The Secret Yarnery. I design simple, modern patterns that look polished and feel cozy, then teach them step by step on YouTube so anyone can follow along. My style is practical, colorful, and beginner friendly. I love clean construction, smart joins, and patterns that fit real life.

I’ve shared hundreds of tutorials, from granny square blankets and pop-art projects to easy wearables like ponchos, totes, and scarves. When I’m not filming, I’m testing new stitches in the car pickup line, cheering at soccer, or sorting yarn with my kids.

What you’ll find here:

• Clear, printable patterns with video support
• Mix-and-match granny square designs
• Time-saving techniques like Continuous Join As You Go
• Tips for color planning, blocking, and neat finishes

Join the community:

• Watch tutorials on YouTube: youtube.com/@secretyarnery
• Browse patterns and printables: secretyarnery.com/pages/patterns
• Explore blanket patterns: secretyarnery.com/collections/blankets
• Say hi during Friday live chats at 5 pm UTC+3

Fun fact: I filmed my first tutorials with a taped-up tripod and a lot of determination. Today, thanks to this community, I shoot in crisp 4K and share even more free patterns.