Crochet Podcast Episode 160: Granny Squares, Yarn Hacks, and a Fun Pet Update!
Welcome back to another vibrant episode here at The Secret Yarnery. I’m thrilled to share Episode 160 of my crochet podcast with you. Whether you’re here for crochet tips, exploring new tools, or just to meet my furry and not-so-furry friends, this episode has something special for everyone. With a mix of completed projects, WIPs, tools, and even a pet parade, you’re in for a whirlwind of yarn-filled joy.
Coffee and Crochet: Thanks, Alicia!
Let’s kick things off with a special coffee shoutout—thank you, Alicia! You’ve made this episode fueled and fabulous by sending me my favorite brew. If you’d like your name featured in a future episode, why not buy me a coffee and keep the crochet energy going strong?
A Fresh Start on Granny Square Tutorials
Granny squares are often thought of as a beginner-friendly staple, but I’ve realized they’re much trickier than they seem for many new crocheters. Identifying corners, side spaces, and stitch placement can be downright mystifying. That’s why I’ve created an in-depth granny square tutorial designed to eliminate confusion and build confidence. At 45 minutes, this walkthrough lets beginners feel prepared to customize their squares to any size.
Using my go-to duo of purple and turquoise yarn, I couldn’t resist creating something both practical and stylish. Want to get started? Check out the Easy Crochet Granny Square Pattern for Absolute Beginners to see why these timeless creations never go out of style.
Storing Crochet Samples, the Easy Way
When you teach crochet and make tutorials, you tend to end up with small swatches, samples, and various pieces that need organizing. I’ve found a simple solution: Ziploc bags and totes! Everything stays neat, clean, and ready for photos or future use.
The Oversized Ambient Shawl: A Love-Hate Project
One of my more extravagant projects is the lush ambient shawl trimmed with a fun berry-and-lettuce border. While it’s gorgeous, it’s enormous—great to look at, kind of impractical to wear! I plan to turn this into a tutorial, so stay tuned while I polish up something wearable and just as stunning. Pro tip: If you love oversized shawls, prepare to use lots of yarn!
Explore some other stunning patterns and designs here.
Upcoming Corner-to-Corner (C2C) Masterclass
Let’s talk about C2C crochet—it’s one of the most visually striking techniques out there. But let’s be real, starting and mastering C2C can be overwhelming for even seasoned crocheters. My goal is to create a complete C2C masterclass, covering everything from beginner tips to advanced variations. I’ll tackle common questions like joining techniques, reducing chain spaces, and transitioning to rectangles or squares.
While I sort out the final details, don’t forget to check out my Ultimate C2C Masterclass for early insights into this technique. Have more C2C questions? Post them in the comments or message me so I can help you out in that project!
A Scrapghan Idea and Yarn Decisions
I’ve been dreaming of creating a C2C scrapghan—turning leftover yarn into a masterpiece! I might cheat a little and “curate” my yarns using beautiful self-striping balls for a cohesive look. Who says a scrapghan can’t be intentional?
Yarn Spinners and Organizing Your Skeins
Yarn barf? No, thank you! I recently started using yarn holder spinners, and I can’t believe I didn’t try them sooner. They keep your workspace neat and eliminate the need for finding center pulls. I tried a few styles, including wooden spinners with small bases and counter-sunk designs.
For neat and effective yarn organization ideas, check out Unbox and Review: Wooden Yarn Holders from AliExpress. Whether you crochet with one color or six, these tools are absolute game-changers for effortless crafting.
Repurposing Household Items as Yarn Holders
No spinner? No problem. Many viewers suggested brilliant DIY solutions like using lazy Susans and paper towel holders. Creativity is key, and these hacks are perfect for avoiding yarn tangles without breaking the bank. If you’ve repurposed something into a yarn holder, let me know!
Pilates and Staying Strong
On a personal note, I’ve been keeping active with weekly Pilates. It’s made a world of difference after a dislocated hip incident earlier this year (yes, while I was sleeping!). For anyone looking to improve their strength alongside crochet, adding some movement to your routine might be worth exploring.
Pet Updates: Meet My Fur Babies and More
What’s a Secret Yarnery podcast without a trip outside? Meet George and Dingo, my lovable dogs with wildly different quirks. George is a gourmet eater (think Indian paneer and Italian pasta), while Dingo is happy with just about anything, including cardboard!
Next up, my tortoises. The baby tortoises we hatched during the lockdown? They’ve grown so much and are thriving in their spacious yard. Peachy, one of the first babies, is always a joy to see. Plus, you’ll meet Coca-Cola the bunny and get a sneak peek at our indoor cats another time.
Gardening and Animal Spaces
I’ve been busy beautifying the garden with bright bougainvillea. It’s going to look amazing once it fully blooms. We’ve also updated the animal spaces to make sure everyone has plenty of room and comfort.
What’s Coming Next?
There’s so much on the horizon: launching the C2C tutorial, sharing updates on my scrapghan, and continuing to review handy tools for crocheters. Plus, more pet updates in Part 2. Stick around for fun, creativity, and a little chaos—it’s what makes The Secret Yarnery podcast so special.
Thanks for spending your time with me today! Dive into another crochet journey right here, and remember, happy hooking!
FAQs
1. What is a crochet podcast?
A crochet podcast is an episode-based video or audio content where creators share their crochet projects, tips, tutorials, tools reviews, and personal updates. It engages fellow crocheters in the community with hands-on insights and inspiration.
2. Where can I find the granny square tutorial?
You can find the detailed granny square tutorial for beginners here. This step-by-step guide is perfect for building confidence and mastering this classic crochet staple.
3. What are C2C crochet techniques?
C2C, or corner-to-corner crochet, involves starting from one corner of the project and working diagonally toward the opposite corner. It’s a popular choice for blankets and designs due to its texture and pixel art-like patterns.
4. What are some good tools to organize yarn?
Yarn holder spinners are fantastic for avoiding tangles and keeping your skeins neat. You can also repurpose household items like lazy Susans or paper towel holders. Ziploc bags and totes are great for storing leftover swatches and small projects.
5. How do I take part in the podcast or support the creator?
You can support the podcast by buying a coffee to help keep the content flowing. Additionally, you’re welcome to comment on episodes with suggestions or questions to engage directly with the creator.
6. How do you handle oversized crochet projects like your ambient shawl?
Oversized projects, while beautiful, can sometimes feel impractical to use. To make them wearable, you can adapt patterns or use specific styling techniques. Stay tuned for tutorials that simplify and refine such projects.
7. What is a scrapghan, and how is it planned?
A scrapghan is a blanket or project made using leftover yarn scraps. To plan a cohesive scrapghan, consider combining self-striping yarns or curating a color palette for a polished result. Let your creativity shine!
8. How do you stay fit despite long crochet sessions?
Incorporating movement like Pilates into your routine helps counteract the sedentary nature of crocheting. It strengthens the core, improves posture, and promotes overall well-being.
9. Who are the pets featured in the podcast?
The podcast features a variety of pets, including George and Dingo (dogs), Peachy the tortoise, Coca-Cola the bunny, and indoor cats. Each has unique traits and brings a fun, personal touch to the episodes.
10. How can I stay updated on new content?
Follow along by visiting the Secret Yarnery blog for regular updates, patterns, and upcoming tutorials. You can also subscribe to the YouTube channel to never miss an episode.
Christa Patel is the creative force behind The Secret Yarnery, inspiring crocheters worldwide with her vibrant tutorials, creative ideas, and detailed guides. She has built a thriving community of crochet enthusiasts, offering valuable tips and techniques for both beginners and seasoned crocheters.
Based in Kenya, Christa balances her love for yarn with an active lifestyle, gardening, and caring for her adorable pets. Her passion for teaching has made her one of the go-to voices in the crochet world, simplifying complex patterns and sharing her journey with an authentic, personal touch.
From granny squares to oversized shawls, Christa's expertise covers a wide range of crochet styles and projects. Her goal is to make crochet fun, approachable, and accessible for everyone, no matter their skill level.
When she isn’t busy designing patterns or creating tutorials, Christa enjoys connecting with her audience through her podcast, where she shares updates, reviews tools, and discusses all things crochet—and sometimes a bit of life’s humor. Whether it’s through her step-by-step guides, creative hacks, or supportive community, Christa’s mission is simple: to ignite creativity and spread the joy of crochet.
Follow Christa through her YouTube Channel or check out her wide array of patterns and tutorials on the Secret Yarnery website!