Crochet Podcast Episode 163 with Christa at The Secret Yarnery

Welcome to Crochet Podcast Episode 163! I’m Christa, here at The Secret Yarnery, and I’m super excited to have you with me. In this episode, I cover some of my finished objects, answer thoughtful questions from our amazing crochet community, and talk about a potential crochet along idea I’m considering. Plus, we dive into a hot topic: crochet seasons and when it's the best time to start big projects.

Finished Objects: Orchid Storm Scarf and Sunflower Coasters

In this episode, I’m so happy to show off two finished objects: my Orchid Storm Scarf and Sunflower Coasters. The Orchid Storm Scarf is something many of you might have already seen, but with its eyelash yarn border, it truly stands out as a grand, swishy finale. It's perfect for fall, especially in soft grays combined with the dramatic pink of the eyelash yarn.

The Sunflower Coasters started as a fun seasonal project, and wow—what a journey! I went through several prototypes to get everything just right. My first version of the coaster looked more like a star than a sunflower, but after some fun trial and error (and a bit of frogging), I found the perfect petal shape and yarn combination.

What’s a Crochet Season?

Now, I wanted to start by asking if you have a crochet season? For me, New Year's always feels like it should be the time to jumpstart new projects—like setting a goal for the year. But no matter how much I try to organize my crochet life in January, it never happens. Why? Because—let’s admit it—January is exhausting.

The holidays take it all out of me. And, on top of that, all the household tasks and family events make it hard to get started with crochet. January just sneaks up on us, doesn’t it?

But what if we start our crochet season in October? I love this idea, especially as someone who lives in the Southern Hemisphere, where it's warm at Christmas. October just feels like a better fit for starting projects: the kids are back in school, the heat of January hasn't hit yet, and I finally feel ready to crochet again.

What do you think? Do you have a preferred time to start your crochet projects? Let me know in the comments or during one of our live chats.

October is the New January for Crochet

This year, I’ve officially declared October my crochet season's Day One. It’s much easier than waiting for January's madness to subside. Last year, I even flirted with the idea of starting in September, but school schedules and back-to-school shopping kept me too busy.

October gives me the clarity to focus on yarn projects with fewer distractions. Whether you're in the northern hemisphere wrapping into chilly months or in the south like me with warmer days, October just works. Does this resonate with you? Feel free to drop your thoughts in the comments.

Should I Write a Pattern for the Four Squared Granny Sweater?

Next, I need your opinions on something exciting—the Four Squared Granny Sweater. This was the second sweater I ever made, and while there’s already a tutorial available for both right- and left-handers, many of you have asked, “Where’s the written pattern?”

I didn’t write a pattern back then. I was just starting, and it was mainly for my students who followed tutorials between classes. But now I’m considering going back and writing the pattern for it. However, listening to my old tutorials with sub-par equipment might give me the "old job jitters," like remembering how clumsy I was at flipping burgers the first time.

So what do you think? Would a written pattern add value, or are the tutorials enough? If you'd rather just follow along in the tutorial, let me know. Your feedback will help me decide!

Orchid Storm Scarf: A Perfect Blend of Style and Function

Let’s talk more about my finished object: the Orchid Storm Scarf. This scarf is all about the subtle details and a burst of drama. It’s done in premium acrylic yarn coupled with an eyelash yarn border that really brings the piece together. The eyelash effect adds an elegant swish, ideal for when you want that perfect look without too much fuss.

If you're interested in starting your own Orchid Storm Scarf projects, make sure to grab the materials: 400 g of yarn for the scarf, and 100 g for the border—50 g on each end.

Check out this page for more easy crochet projects.

The Sunflower Coasters: A Process of Perfection

It took several revisions to finalize the Sunflower Coasters, and not every version was a winner. To start, my first prototype didn’t lay flat; it domed up like a soup bowl, which clearly wasn’t the plan. After a couple of versions, I finally nailed the spacing, petal shape, and stitch size to create something that lays flat and looks perfectly like a sunflower.

The final product is exactly how I imagined: vibrant and perfect for a warm, seasonal touch around the house. Best part? It's simpler than you think! If you're into coasters, you'll love this tutorial when it gets released. Stay tuned—it’s coming to the site soon.

How to Handle Velvet Yarn

One of you asked an excellent question about Bernat Velvet yarn. Does anyone have experience working with this yarn without it looping and fraying? Sometimes velvet just acts like it has a mind of its own. If you’ve figured out a stitch or trick for this, we’d love to hear it in the comments.

Crochet Along Idea: Chicken of the Month

Now, here's something I’m curious about: a Chicken of the Month crochet along. The idea came from one of our community members during a live chat. What if for the next seven months (October through April), we make a different chicken each month?

They don't have to be big projects. Maybe just simple granny square chickens or something a bit more elaborate depending on your style. I think it would be a fun, quirky project, and it could take us through the rest of crochet season. Want to join in?

Live Events and Member Chats

Don’t forget about our upcoming live chat this Friday at 5:00 PM Nairobi time! We also have a members-only live chat for cotton members scheduled on Monday. Set yourself a reminder because these are always a blast—full of laughs, yarn talk, and tips.

Not a member yet? You can check out the membership perks and see if it’s something you’d enjoy.

Wrapping It Up

Before I go, I’d love to hear your thoughts about the Four Squared Granny Sweater tutorial. Should I go ahead and create a written pattern for it? Or should we stick with the video tutorial?

Also, I’m especially pumped to share the Sunflower Coasters tutorial with you soon, so stay on the lookout for it. Whether you’re looking for crochet inspiration, community, or just a new project, the Secret Yarnery has you covered. And remember, if you enjoy crochet, yarn, patterns, and hanging out in the yarnery, go ahead and subscribe to the channel.

Thanks for inviting me into your crochet world today! I hope to see you on Friday for the chat, and until then—stay hooked!

FAQ

1. What yarn did you use for the Orchid Storm Scarf?

The Orchid Storm Scarf is made using premium acrylic yarn paired with an eyelash yarn border. You'll need 400g for the scarf and an additional 100g for the border.

2. How can I join the live events mentioned in the podcast?

You can join the live events by following the schedule shared in the episode. For members-only events, make sure you have access through the membership perks.

3. Where can I find the tutorial for the Sunflower Coasters?

The tutorial for the Sunflower Coasters will be released soon on the website. Stay tuned for updates!

4. Is there a written pattern for the Four Squared Granny Sweater available?

Currently, there is no written pattern for the Four Squared Granny Sweater. However, if there's enough interest, a pattern could be developed in addition to the existing tutorial.

5. How can I handle Bernat Velvet yarn without it looping or fraying?

Handling Bernat Velvet yarn can be tricky. If you have tips or tricks, please share them in the comments section of the podcast.

6. How can I participate in the Chicken of the Month crochet along?

To participate in the Chicken of the Month crochet along, keep an eye on the announcements during upcoming episodes and live chats for more details on how to join.

7. What is the best time to start new crochet projects according to Christa?

Christa suggests starting new crochet projects in October, especially if you're in the Southern Hemisphere, as it aligns better with the change in seasons and energy levels post-summer.

Christa Patel is a crochet artist and instructor who founded the Secret Yarnery to share her love for crochet with others. Her down-to-earth tutorials, practical tips, and free patterns have drawn a loyal following of crocheters who appreciate her warmth, expertise, and dedication to making crochet enjoyable for everyone.