I don’t know about you, I’ve never been able to find a whole lot of resources on the internet for Christian crocheters.

There’s just not a lot out there, you know? Or if there is, it is difficult to find. I went for years without knowing some of these resources exist…and now that I do, I want to share them with you!

Why Integrate Christ with Crochet?

Some people argue that what I do on my blog is crochet – so I shouldn’t share my beliefs as well. I’ve even had some comments before on social media with people telling me to limit my posts to crochet only.

But, I simply can’t do that. As a Christian, Jesus influences everything I do. I am called to glorify Him in WHATEVER my hand finds to do.

³¹ So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.

– 1 Corinthians 10:31

This blog is where God has called me to work. He has graciously given me a platform where I can not only do what I love, but also spread HIS LOVE while doing it.

That is just a little bit about the heart behind this Christian Crochet project. My goal is to unite those of us crocheters who are sisters in Christ…and also spread the gospel any way we can through crochet.

Sound good?! Okay, let’s dive right in!

Crochet Groups/Communities for Christians

Let’s start out with community, because this is huge. Where can you even FIND other like-minded Christian crocheters?

1. Christian Crocheters Group

This is a group that I wish I would’ve known about a long time ago. Michelle from Two Brother’s Blankets is another Christian crochet designer, and she put together a group just for Christians who crochet.

Today, she actually asked me to come be an admin of the group! I will mostly be taking it over from here on out, which I am excited about.

Group members share patterns, WIPS, and Bible verses. Join the group here!

2. Desert Blossom Crochet Community

Secondly, there is my crochet Facebook Group, called Desert Blossom Crochet Community. While this is not a Christian group in particular, I do share all my new Christian-themed patterns, and you will be free to share about your faith if you so desire. Join this group here!

Christian Crochet Charities to Support

Next up, let’s talk charities. There are a LOT of crochet charities out there that take donations, but are any of them actually Christ centered, gospel focused?

First of all, what I would say to you is that if you find a charity for crocheters, see if they have a statement of faith. What do they stand for? Make sure you know that before supporting them.

From my own research, I have found two different charities that seem to be solid, Bible believing charities that also accept crochet donations.

1. Operation Christmas Child

This has always been one of my FAVORITE charities to support. Operation Christmas Child is dedicated to the gospel of Jesus Christ. Every year, they distribute thousands of shoeboxes filled with gifts to children around the world.

While this is not a crochet-specific charity, they do LOVE when people put handmade gifts into the shoeboxes.

In fact, I ran a crochet-along last year for OCC! If you’re interested in supporting this charity, you can learn about using crocheting for OCC right here.

Then, once you’ve done that, you can also check out the OCC girl’s patterns I’ve released, and OCC boy’s patterns I’ve released. (all of these patterns are perfect to put in your shoebox!)

Lastly, make sure to read about packing a shoebox directly on the Operation Christmas Child website here.

Knot Forgotten

Secondly, I’m super excited to tell you about an amazing program called Knot Forgotten!

This charity focusing on sending crochet toys to children of the persecuted Church around the world. They sell something called “A Bear in a Bag” which is a kit for making your very own crocheted bear to send to a child.

However, I believe you can send them any crochet toys you would like. If you’re interested in doing this, make sure you view all the info here!

“Merch” for Christian Crocheters

Now that we’ve covered groups and charities, it’s time to get into specific patterns and products! I want to start off by showing you some “merch” I am in the process of making.

I will soon be opening a shopify store that not only has my PDF crochet patterns, but also merch like the following…

As you can see, there will be things like t-shirts and journals, featuring sayings like

1. Christ and Crochet
2. All I Need is a Little Crochet and a Whole Lot of Jesus

Merch is releasing TOMORROW! To be the first to hear when they’re available, sign up below to be notified!

If you have a specific “saying” you would love to see on merch like this, please send me an email and I’ll consider it! rachel@desertblossomcrafts.com

Christian Crochet Patterns

LAST BUT NOT LEAST…let’s talk Christian crochet patterns!!

Let me tell you, there’s one reason why I did not make many Christian patterns for a long time…most them just aren’t very modern, you know? There are some cute ones, but there are also some really “old” looking ones…if you get what I mean.

Nothing against these designers AT ALL – it’s just not my style! So, here I wanted to show you some Christian patterns I’ve designed, as well as feature some other more modern patterns from other designers.

Crochet Cross Wall Hanging

This is the first Christian pattern I designed, and it has been quite popular! It features a tapestry crochet cross, with pretty lace and flowers. The perfect Easter decor! Get the free pattern here.

Crochet Cross Applique in 3 Sizes

Secondly, I have designed my own crochet cross applique! This is not your typical lace cross, as you can see. I was going for something a little more rustic. The pattern comes in 3 sizes and can be found for free here.

Crochet Cross Basket

Of course, once I made the appliques above, I had to find a way to use them! So I designed this cute cross basket, which features the medium applique on the front. Another great piece of Easter decor. Get the free pattern here.

Have a request for a Christian crochet pattern? Let me know in the comments!

In the meantime, let’s look at a few more patterns by other designers.

Sweet Blessings Bible Cover

If you’re looking for a crocheted cover for your Bible, I love this pattern by Two Brothers Blankets! It is a premium pattern that can be found here.

Blessed Blanket

When I saw this pattern, I immediately fell in love. As Christians, we are most definitely blessed! This blankets features that word in corner-to-corner crochet. Get the free pattern here!

Modern Crochet Nativity Set

This crochet nativity by Whistle and Ivy just blows me away. Isn’t it so beautiful? I know it’s not Christmas right now, but it is always a good idea to get ahead, right?! Get this pattern here (both free & paid versions are available).

Cross Prayer Square

Last but not least, I love this cute crochet square by Remington Lane Crochet! It features crosses made out of bobbles. Get the free pattern here!

Those are all the resources I have for you right now…

But if you have anything you think would go great in this list, please email me and let me know! I would love to feature more Christian crochet charities, groups, or patterns.

SHARING IS CARING!

If you did enjoy this post, I would love if you shared it in the following places so many MORE people can see it!

• Pin to Pinterest – just hover over any of the photos in this post and click “save”
• Tag me in your Instagram posts
• Share photos in my Facebook Group

Happy Crocheting!

The post Ultimate List of Christian Crochet Resources – Patterns, Groups, and Charities! appeared first on .

The cross basket pattern was born after I designed a simple cross applique a few weeks ago. I had made these lovely crosses, and then I thought, “how can I use these?”

That night, I grabbed some bulky weight yarn and whipped up this cute little basket. I hope you love it!

A Mini Easter Basket Pattern

At around 5″ in diameter, I would classify this pattern as a mini Easter basket. Personally, I’m going to use it for decor around the house. However, I think you could also make it work with a handle if you wanted to use it for a little one collecting Easter eggs!

GET THE AD-FREE PDF

Want to print this pattern out? If so, you have the option of buying an ad-free, PDF cross crochet pattern for just $3.99!

This PDF includes all the works! Here’s what you’ll get included:

1. Full written instructions
2. Photo tutorial for making the cross

More Christian Crochet Patterns

1/ Cross Applique Free Pattern 2/ Easter Cross Wall Hanging free pattern

Crochet Cross Basket Pattern

Ready to make this fun crochet cross basket? The free pattern is below!

• To Pin this pattern to your Pinterest Boards, click HERE
• To buy the inexpensive, ad-free PDF, click HERE
• To subscribe to my YouTube channel, click HERE

Materials:

• Loops & Threads Charisma Yarn: (100% acrylic, 109 yds/100 m, 3.5 oz/100 g) less than 1 skein of Bone (MC) and Taupe (CC)
• Or any other Bulky Weight #5 yarn
• Small amount of worsted weight yarn (for the cross – I used Mary Maxim Woodlands).
• I/5.5mm crochet hook
• H/5mm crochet hook 
• Yarn needle

Notes:

1. Ch 1 at beginning of rnds does NOT count as a stitch.
2. Basket is worked in the round. We will start with a square base but end with a circular edging.
3. Cross is made separately and sewn on afterward.

Measurements: 

Bottom (square) diameter: 5.5”

Top (circular) diameter: 5”

Abbreviations/Stitches Used (U.S.) 

Chain – ch

Single crochet – sc

Repeat – rep

Skip – sk

Space(s) – sp(s)

Stitch(es) – st(s)

Beginning – beg

Main color – MC

Contrasting color – CC

Instructions:

Basket Base

With MC and larger hook, ch 2.

Rnd 1: 12 sc in second ch from hook. Join with sl st to first sc.

Rnd 2: Ch 1, (sc, ch 1, sc)  in same st as sl st. Sc in next 2 sc. *(Sc, ch 1, sc) in next sc, sc in next 2 sc. Rep from * around. Join with sl st to first sc, sl st into next ch-1 sp. (16 sc)

Rnd 3: Ch 1, (sc, ch 1, sc) in ch-1 sp. Sc in next 4 sc. *(Sc, ch 1, sc) in next ch-1 sp, sc in next 4 sc. Rep from * around. Join with sl st to first sc, sl st into next ch-1 sp. (24 sc)

Rnd 4: Ch 1, (sc, ch 1, sc) in ch-1 sp. Sc in next 6 sc. *(Sc, ch 1, sc) in next ch-1 sp, sc in next 6 sc. Rep from * around. Join with sl st to first sc, sl st into next ch-1 sp. (32 sc)

Rnd 5: Ch 1, (sc, ch 1, sc) in ch-1 sp. Sc in next 8 sc. *(Sc, ch 1, sc) in next ch-1 sp, sc in next 8 sc. Rep from * around. Join with sl st to first sc, sl st into next ch-1 sp. (40 sc)

Rnd 6: Ch 1, (sc, ch 1, sc) in ch-1 sp. Sc in next 10 sc. *(Sc, ch 1, sc) in next ch-1 sp, sc in next 10 sc. Rep from * around. Join with sl st to first sc, sl st into next ch-1 sp. (48 sc)

Rnd 7: Ch 1, (sc, ch 1, sc) in ch-1 sp. Sk next sc, BL sc in next 10 sc. *Sk next sc, (sc, ch 1, sc) in next ch-1 sp. Sk next sc, BL sc in next 10 sc. Rep from * around. Sk last sc, join with sl st to first sc, sl st into next ch-1 sp. (40 BL sc, 8 corner sc)

Rnds 8-15: Ch 1, (sc, ch 1, sc) in ch-1 sp. Sk next sc, sc in next 10 sc. *Sk next sc, (sc, ch 1, sc) in next ch-1 sp. Sk next sc, sc in next 10 sc. Rep from * around. Sk last sc, join with sl st to first sc, sl st into next ch-1 sp. (48 sc)

Rnd 16: Ch 1, (sc, ch 1, sc) in ch-1 sp. Sk next sc, sc2tog over next 2 sc. Sc in next 6 sc, sc2tog over next 2 sc. *Sk next sc, (sc, ch 1, sc) in next ch-1 sp. Sk next sc, sc2tog over next 2 sc. Sc in next 6 sc, sc2tog over next 2 sc. Rep from * around. Sk last sc, join with sl st to first sc. (32 sc, 8 sc2tog) 

Fasten off MC.

Join CC with a sl st in any sc. Work the crab stitch (backward single crochet) around the basket. If you are unfamiliar with this stitch, please see this blog post.

Cross:

With worsted weight yarn and smaller hook, fsc 11.

Row 1: Sl st in the “ch” of last fsc. Sl st in next 4 sts. Ch 5, sc in second ch from hook and next 3 ch. Sl st in middle of cross. Ch 5, sc in second ch from hook and next 3 ch. Sl st in middle of cross. Sl st down the “ch” side of the fsc row.

Fasten off, leaving a long tail for sewing.

Note: this cross can be a little tricky to conceptualize from just a written pattern. If you need visual help, check out this YouTube video!

Finishing:

1. If desired, steam block the cross to prevent any curling.
2. Sew cross onto the front side of basket.
3. Weave in all ends.

I hope you all enjoyed this easy Easter basket crochet pattern for the Christian household!

Don’t forget to check out the other patterns in my Christian crochet series – the Cross Wall Hanging and Cross Applique.

SHARING IS CARING!

If you did enjoy this post, I would love if you shared it in the following places so many MORE people can see it!

• Pin to Pinterest – just hover over any of the photos in this post and click “save”
• Tag me in your Instagram posts
• Share photos in my Facebook Group

Happy Crocheting!

The post Cross Crochet Easter Basket – FREE Pattern appeared first on .

I am so excited to start designing more Christ-centered crochet patterns.

Seriously, I think it is an amazing thing to spread the gospel through crochet.

My hope and prayer is that this cross crochet pattern will draw you near to Jesus this Easter!

“But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed

Isaiah 53:5

A Small Crochet Cross Pattern (Tiny, in Fact!)

This pattern all started with the small cross. I was actually sitting in my local college group and crocheting during the sermon…it helps me focus, LOL.

Anyway, I have wanted to come up with cross crochet patterns for awhile, and since Easter was coming up, I knew I needed to get to work.

As I sat and listened to the word of God, I used fingering weight yarn to make the teensy tiny cross you see here!

Of course, when I got home, I realized I could easily make the cross larger simply by changing my yarn weight.

I first tried worsted weight, then bulky, and what emerged was a cross applique easily made in 3 sizes!

This crochet cross is quick & easy to make!

If you want to crochet a cross is less than 10 minutes, this is the pattern for you.

The 3 different sized crosses are made larger simply by using heavier weight yarn and adding a few stitches, so even the large cross works up quickly!

Maybe you’ve been wondering how to crochet a simple cross. If so, look no further. This pattern is so easy to make!

There are a few things about it that can be tricky to conceptualize through the written pattern, but once you get the hang of it, making them is a breeze.

That said, if you’re more of a visual learner, I highly recommend checking out the video tutorial below!

I’ve been doing video tutorials for all of my new patterns over on YouTube, so make sure to come subscribe if you haven’t already!

GET THE AD-FREE PDF

Want to print this pattern out? If so, you have the option of buying an ad-free, PDF cross crochet pattern for just $3.50!

This PDF includes all the works! Here’s what you’ll get included:

1. Full written instructions
2. Photo tutorial for making the cross

Making Use of Your Crochet Cross Applique

Now, flat crochet crosses are cool and everything…but how can you make use of them?

Some people use crosses as a Bible bookmark, but to be honest, this cross may not work the best for that.

Instead, you can sew it as an applique to any of your favorite things…

• the tiny cross might look cool sewn on a sweater!
• you could try crocheting several crosses and stringing them onto a banner for Easter decor
• Or, I have a basket pattern I designed just so that you can make use of your cross…

Crochet Cross Basket Pattern

This little basket I designed might just be the perfect addition to your Easter decor! I sewed the medium sized cross applique onto it.

Get this pattern for free here!

Quick and Easy Crochet Cross Pattern – Free

Ready to make this simple crochet cross? The free pattern is below!

• To Pin this pattern to your Pinterest Boards, click HERE
• To buy the inexpensive, ad-free PDF with color charts, click HERE
• To subscribe to my YouTube channel for lots of tutorials, click HERE

Materials:

• Small cross: #1 fingering weight yarn, F/4.25mm crochet hook
• Medium cross: #4 worsted weight yarn, H/5mm crochet hook
• Large cross: #5 bulky weight yarn, I/5.5mm crochet hook
• Yarn needle

Notes:

1. The different sized crosses are all worked in the same way, but with different yarns AND a few added stitches (more info in the pattern).
2. Crosses will be worked in one piece. We’ll start with the long, vertical section, and then make the sides right off of the vertical piece. 
3. If any part of the pattern is confusing, please refer to the photo tutorial at the end.

Measurements: 

Small cross: 1.5” tall

Medium cross: 3” tall

Large cross: 5.5” tall

Abbreviations/Stitches Used (U.S.) 

Chain – ch

Foundation single crochet – fsc

Single crochet – sc

Repeat – rep

Skip – sk

Space(s) – sp(s)

Stitch(es) – st(s)

Beginning – beg

More Christian Crochet Patterns

1/ Cross Basket 2/ Easter Cross Wall Hanging

Instructions:

Tiny Cross

With fingering weight yarn, fsc 9. 

Row 1: Sl st in the “ch” of last fsc. Sl st in next 3 sts. Ch 4, sc in second ch from hook and next 2 ch. Sl st in middle of cross. Ch 4, sc in second ch from hook and next 2 ch. Sl st in middle of cross. Sl st down the “ch” side of the fsc row. Fasten off.

Medium Cross:

With worsted weight yarn, fsc 11.

Row 1: Sl st in the “ch” of last fsc. Sl st in next 4 sts. Ch 5, sc in second ch from hook and next 3 ch. Sl st in middle of cross. Ch 5, sc in second ch from hook and next 3 ch. Sl st in middle of cross. Sl st down the “ch” side of the fsc row. Fasten off.

Large Cross:

With bulky weight yarn, fsc 15.

Row 1: Sl st in the “ch” of last fsc. Sl st in next 5 sts. Ch 6, sc in second ch from hook and next 4 ch. Sl st in middle of cross. Ch 6, sc in second ch from hook and next 4 ch. Sl st in middle of cross. Sl st down the “ch” side of the fsc row.

Fasten off.

Finishing:

1. Steam block your crosses so they don’t curl.
2. After blocking, weave in all your ends!

I hope you have enjoyed this free crochet pattern! What will you use this cross applique for? Let me know in the comment section!

SHARING IS CARING!

If you did enjoy this post, I would love if you shared it in the following places so many MORE people can see it!

• Pin to Pinterest – just hover over any of the photos in this post and click “save”
• Tag me in your Instagram posts
• Share photos in my Facebook Group

Happy Crocheting!

P.S. If you want a specific use for your new cross applique, don’t forget to check out my free Easter basket pattern!

The post Quick and Easy Crochet Cross Pattern in 3 Sizes – FREE & Rustic! appeared first on .

It is funny how inspiration usually strikes me ALL at once.

I’ve been wanting to design some Christ-centered Easter crochet patterns for awhile, but I didn’t really have any ideas…

Until one day, everything hit me at once! And within 2 days, I had designed 3 patterns exactly as I described above.

(The other two are coming out soon – make sure to keep an eye out!)

But for now, meet the Crochet Easter Cross Wall Hanging!

A Tapestry Crochet Wall Hanging

The cross portion of this wall hanging uses one specific technique: tapestry crochet/intarsia crochet.

If you’re new to changing colors in crochet, don’t worry. This is the perfect beginner’s color work pattern, because you only have to have 2 colors going at once – the white background and the brown cross.

The flowers are made separately and sewn on afterward!

The Perfect Easter Crochet Home Decor

But God demonstrates His love for us in this: while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.

– Romans 5:8

That verse above describes the GOSPEL perfectly. My Christian faith is an integral part to my life, so it is inevitable that I will also design patterns centered around that.

I believe we should incorporate Christ into everything we do. Whether that means sharing the gospel in your workplace, doing bible crafts with your kids, or crocheting Christian items!

For other Christian women out there, my hope and prayer is that this is exactly the Christ-centered Easter crochet decor that you need.

When it comes to crochet crosses in particular, I have personally found that they tend to look a little old and outdated.

So, I hope you find this to be a more modern crochet cross idea this Easter!

Fringe or No Fringe?

It took me a LONG time to decide whether I wanted to add fringe to this wall hanging or not!

I liked it both ways, but my followers over on Instagram voted that fringe was the way to go. The pictures above show it finished with fringe, but I thought I would include another photo WITHOUT fringe so you can see ahead of time what it looks like.

More Wall Hanging Patterns

• Seaside Lace Wall Hanging
• Stellar Mandala Wall Decor
• 18 Unique Wall Hanging Patterns
• Boho Crochet Wall Hanging

Crochet Wall Hanging Tutorial

Are you a visual learner and you want to see crochet color charts or tutorials to go with this pattern? Don’t worry, I’ve got you all covered!

Video Tutorial

First of all, you can check out the video tutorial for this wall hanging below. I’ll show you step by step how to make it!

Get the Ad-Free PDF

Secondly, you have the option of buying an ad-free, PDF wall hanging crochet pattern for just $3.99 on Etsy or Ravelry.

This PDF includes all the works! Here’s what you’ll get included:

1. Full written instructions
2. Two different color charts for visual learners
3. Photo tutorial to help with attaching the wall hanging to the stick

Please note: you can still make this pattern using the free version! The written instructions are included below. However, if you would like color charts, those are only included in the premium upgrade. Click below to shop!

More Christian Crochet Patterns

1/ Cross Applique in 3 Sizes 2/ Easter Cross Basket

Crochet Easter Cross Wall Hanging – Free Pattern

Ready to make this wall hanging? The free pattern is below!

• To Pin this pattern to your Pinterest Boards, click HERE
• To buy the inexpensive, ad-free PDF with color charts, click HERE
• To add this pattern to your Ravelry queue, click HERE

Materials:

• Mary Maxim Woodlands Worsted Weight Yarn: (90% Acrylic, 10% Alpaca, 200 yds/182 m, 3.5 oz/100 g) 1 skein Ecru (MC) and 1 skein Beige Heather (CC) 
• Small amounts of worsted weight yarn in pink and yellow for flowers (or your desired colors)
• H/5mm crochet hook 
• Yarn needle
• Large stick a few inches longer than the finished wall hanging – you can use something like a dowel rod available at craft stores, but a clean stick from the yard will look more rustic!

Notes:

1. Ch 1 at beginning of row does NOT count as a stitch.
2. Always change colors by yarning over with the NEW color on the last stitch of the current color. 
3. You can do the color work using your desired method, but I carried the white throughout the cross. On the other hand, I dropped the brown each time I got to the white and then picked it back up again on the next row. For more information on how to do crochet color work, please see this blog post.
4. The color work will be written out in the following manner: (MC sc) x 17, (CC sc) x 6. In this example, you would work 1 sc in the next 17 stitches with the main color, followed by 1 sc in the next 6 stitches with the contrasting color.

Measurements: 

Approximately 10” wide and 13” tall (includes netting but not fringe).

Abbreviations/Stitches Used (U.S.) 

Chain – ch

Foundation single crochet – fsc

Slip stitch – sl st

Single crochet – sc

Repeat – rep

Skip – sk

Space(s) – sp(s)

Stitch(es) – st(s)

Beginning – beg

Main color – MC

Contrasting color – CC

Instructions:

Main Wall Hanging

With MC, fsc 40.

← Row 1 [RS]: Ch 1, (MC sc) x 40. Turn.

→ Row 2 [WS]: Ch 1, (MC sc) x 40. Turn.

← Row 3 [RS]: Ch 1, (MC sc) x 17, (CC sc) x 6, (MC sc) x 17. Turn.

→ Row 4 [WS]: Ch 1, (MC sc) x 16, (CC sc) x 8, (MC sc) x 16. Turn.

Rows 5-27: Ch 1, (MC sc) x 15, (CC sc) x 10, (MC sc) x 15. Turn.

→ Row 28 [WS]: Ch 1, (MC sc) x 8, (CC sc) x 24, (MC sc) x 8. Turn.

← Row 29 [RS]: Ch 1, (MC sc) x 7, (CC sc) x 26, (MC sc) x 7. Turn.

Rows 30-34: Ch 1, (MC sc) x 6, (CC sc) x 28, (MC sc) x 6. Turn.

← Row 35 [RS]: Ch 1, (MC sc) x 7, (CC sc) x 26, (MC sc) x 7. Turn.

→ Row 36 [WS]: Ch 1, (MC sc) x 8, (CC sc) x 24, (MC sc) x 8. Turn.

Rows 37-44: Ch 1, (MC sc) x 15, (CC sc) x 10, (MC sc) x 15. Turn.

← Row 45 [RS]: Ch 1, (MC sc) x 16, (CC sc) x 8, (MC sc) x 16. Turn.

→ Row 46 [WS]: Ch 1, (MC sc) x 17, (CC sc) x 6, (MC sc) x 17. Turn.

← Row 47 [RS]: Ch 1, (MC sc) x 40. Turn.

→ Row 48 [WS]: Ch 1, (MC sc) x 40. Turn.

← Row 49 [RS]: Ch 1, (MC sc) x 40. Turn.

→ Row 50 [WS]: Ch 1, (MC sc) x 40. Turn.

Edging:

Row 51: Ch 1, sc in first sc. (Ch 5, sk 4 sc, sc in next sc) 6 times. Ch 5, sk 3 sc, sc in next sc. Ch 5, sk 4 sc, sc in last sc. Turn. 

Row 52: Ch 1, sc in first sc. Ch 3, sc in first ch-5 sp. (Ch 5, sc in next ch-5 sp) 7 times. Ch 3, sc in last sc. Turn.

Row 53: Ch 1, sc in first sc. Ch 5, sk ch-3 sp, sc in ch-5 sp. (Ch 5, sc in next ch-5 sp) 6 times. Ch 5, sk ch-3 sp, sc in last sc. Turn.

NEXT STEP: 

Do not fasten off. Steam block your wall hanging to get rid of any curling. I recommend doing this before the next row where we attach it to the stick – so that the stick doesn’t get wet from the steam. Here’s what mine looked like pinned out ready to block.

After blocking is finished, pick up your loop again to start Row 54, where we will attach the wall hanging to the stick.

Row 54: Ch 3. Insert hook into next ch-5 sp. We are now going to create a sc over the stick. Place the stick over on top of your hook, and bring the yarn over the stick. Yarn over.

Pull up a loop, just as if you were making a regular sc. YO, pull through 2 loops to finish your first sc around the stick. Ch 5.

Repeat the same exact process in each ch-5 loop.

From the front, you won’t be able to see the ch-5 sp. Fasten off when you get to the end of the ch-5 sps.

Note: if you need visual help with this row, please see the video tutorial or ad-free PDF.

Handle:

Make a slip knot. Make another single crochet through the ch-5 sp on the right side and around the stick. It is important that you actually join NEW yarn here. This will prevent the netting from pulling toward the center.

Chain 65 (or whatever amount of chains you want for your handle). Make another sc through the ch-5 on the left side and around the stick. Fasten off.

Flowers

Large Rose:

Ch 7. Make 3 sc in the second ch from hook. 3 sc in each ch across. Allow the stitches to twist naturally into a flower. (18 sc)

To finish, sl st to the side of the flower where the ending stitch lines up. Fasten off.

Small Rose:

Ch 5. Make 3 sc in the second ch from hook. 3 sc in each ch across. Allow the stitches to twist naturally into a flower. (12 sc)

To finish, sl st to the side of the flower where the ending stitch lines up. Fasten off.

Daisy:

Ch 6. Sl st in 6th ch from hook. (Ch 5, sl st in same ch) 4 times. Fasten off.

You can make as many or as few of the above flowers as you would like. I attached 2 daisies, 2 small roses, and 1 large rose on the left of the cross. And 1 daisy, 2 small roses, and one large rose on the right side.

Finishing:

1. Weave in all ends.
2. Attach flowers on the left and right side of cross. Just arrange the flowers according to the photo below (or however you would like) then sew down securely.
3. Add fringe to the bottom if desired. My fringe was 11” long and I used 2 strands of yarn for each set (once folded in half for the fringe it looks like 4 strands per set, and the measurement will be half of the original 11” measurement). If you’re unfamiliar with how to add fringe with this method, please check out this video.

I hope you have enjoyed this diy crochet wall hanging pattern! I had so much fun designing it.

To see all my home decor crochet patterns, click HERE.

SHARING IS CARING!

If you did enjoy this post, I would love if you shared it in the following places so many MORE people can see it!

• Pin to Pinterest – just hover over any of the photos in this post and click “save”
• Tag me in your Instagram posts
• Share photos in my Facebook Group

Happy Crocheting!

The post Crochet Easter Cross Wall Hanging – FREE Pattern appeared first on .

Will You Help me crochet for charity this September?

As many of you know…crocheting for charity is a passion of mine.

Last year, I went on a mission’s trip to the Philippines and taught hundreds of women how to make bead crocheted jewelry.

Ever since then, I’ve been brainstorming more ways I can serve here in America.

It was a few months ago that I started really thinking hard. How could I use the gift of crochet to help others…and also bring God glory at the same time?

I googled “crochet for charity” and was surprised by the results. In the search results I saw a post called the “crazy shoebox lady.” It was about a lady who crocheted tons of items for…

OPERATION CHRISTMAS CHILD!

It hit me all of a sudden – I could run a CAL for Operation Christmas child!

Now, if you’re unfamiliar with this organization, don’t worry. Keep on reading, and I will explain how everything works!

What is Operation Christmas Child (OCC)?

I have been serving every year with Operation Christmas child since I was 13 years old. I know that their mission aligns with mine. So there is no one else I would rather support!

What exactly does OCC do? Well, they collect shoeboxes filled with gifts, and then they send them to children around the world every year for Christmas.

Every year, people like you and me are able to fill shoeboxes with goodies and donate them. Churches host “shoebox filling” events, families fill their own boxes…it really is a big thing!

OCC is also under the larger umbrella of Samaritan’s Purse, also a non-profit organization.

The Crochet Along for Charity

You might be wondering…how does this relate to crochet?

Well, OCC highly encourages the making of handmade gifts to fill the shoeboxes! So I thought, what better way to raise awareness than by hosting a crochet-along?

If you are unfamiliar with the concept of a crochet-along (CAL for short) here is how it works:

Generally, a CAL is an event where parts of a pattern are released over a series of time, and crocheters all make it together.

For THIS CAL, however, there will be 1 new crochet pattern released per week. Each pattern will be an item you can fill your shoebox with. By the end of the CAL, you should have a shoebox filled with crocheted items!

The Mission

There is lots more info on how the CAL works below. But before I go in detail, I really want to make sure we’re clear on the MISSION of this event.

Operation Christmas Child is a Christian organization dedicated to sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ.

To me, the gospel is the most important message. If there is one reason I am hosting this CAL it is for the sake of the gospel, and God’s glory.

Although this blog makes me money…I never, ever, want money to be my only motivation for blogging.

My go to verse on this is Colossians 3:17 –

And whatever you do, whether in word or in deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.

If I can use this platform I have to spread the gospel and give God glory – then all of it will be worth it.

So that is why I am hosting this event. My hope and prayer is that we can come together as a crochet community and bring God glory through this.

Will you join me?

Yes, Count me In!

If you are ready to join the CAL, woohoo! I am beyond excited and would love to have you.

This crochet-along is completely FREE, meaning you do not have to pay a fee to join. (There will be some optional things you can pay for, but this is not required).

So, in order to join for FREE, there are a few things you need to do:

1. First, sign up for my email list right here. By doing this, you will get all the CAL updates, and I will be able to know exactly how many people have joined.
2. Second, join my Facebook group right here. This is where the community aspect will take place – where we can post pictures of our projects and encourage each other!
3. Third, follow me on Instagram and post the picture below this list to show you’re participating! (This is optional, but I would LOVE it if you posted!)
4. Choose your path – will you crochet for a little boy or a little girl? TODAY the patterns lists & materials have been released! Make sure you browse the boys patterns & the girls patterns before you decide.

Screenshot or save the photo below & post on Instagram or Facebook with the hashtag #mycrochetshoebox – so we can see everyone who is participating!

Finally, please keep reading about the event and make sure you know the details. I wouldn’t want you to miss out on anything!

How it Works

Ok, you’re all signed up…now what?

The CAL officially starts today, September 8! The Materials List & Pattern Pages have been released. Next Tuesday will be the first day we actually start crocheting together.

Until that happens, I thought I would give you a more detailed overview of what everything will look in a step-by-step format.

Step 1: Join the CAL

Of course, the very first thing that needs to be done is the joining! If you haven’t already, follow the steps a few paragraphs above to make sure you’re all signed up. (you can also use the form below!)

Step 2: Choose Your Path & Collect Materials

The next step is to “choose your path”! I say this because there will actually be two lines of patterns releasing: patterns for a girl’s shoebox AND a boy’s shoebox.

That’s right, so there will actually be 2 PATTERNS released per week: one for girls and one for boys. You do not have to make the patterns for both.

Instead, you can choose your path…will you bless a little girl or a little boy?

Eventually, you will also decide the age category of your box. The categories are 2-4, 5-9, and 10-14 for both girls and boys.

The patterns in the CAL are mostly geared toward the 5-9 age category – but there will also be options to customize that if you’d like!

Once you decide on “your path” make sure you start collecting materials this week so you’re prepared!

Step 3: Find a Shoebox

Another thing you can do before the first pattern releases is find a shoebox. This can be any standard sized shoebox that you have laying around!

There are also OCC specific shoeboxes that can be found in many Hobby Lobby’s. However, these may not be available till closer to November. To find out, visit your Hobby Lobby. Boxes will be near the front somewhere.

The important thing is, you have a shoebox. We’ll be filling it throughout the CAL!

Step 4: Decide how you will participate

I mentioned awhile ago that there are some optional paid opportunities as apart of this CAL.

There is no required fees to join. However, there IS the option to purchase the ad-free bundle of all the CAL patterns up front!

This way, you will not have to wait each week to get the pattern. You’ll have them all straight away, and you can print out as needed!

The best part about this option is that I will be donating 100% of the profits to Operation Christmas Child. My goal is to raise at least $1000…will you help me get there?

This option is now available and can be found here!

If you are not able to buy this, please don’t worry. Just your participation is AWESOME! Read on to see the schedule of the designs as they release.

Step 5: Crochet Your Items

From September 15 – November 3rd, we will be doing step 4! There will be boys and girls patterns released during these weeks that you can fill your shoebox with.

Here is the schedule we will be following:

• Sept. 8: Materials List & Ad-Free Bundle released
• Sept. 15: Week 1 patterns released – scrubbies for girls, clownfish for boys
• Sept. 22: Week 2 patterns released – puppy ami for girls, footbag (aka hack sack) for boys
• Sept. 29: Week 3 patterns released – headband for girls, basketball backpack for boys
• Oct. 6: Week 4 patterns released – beanie for girls, basketball scrubbie for boys
• Oct. 13: Week 5 patterns released – flower clips for girls, hat for boys
• Oct. 20: Week 6 patterns released – pencil case for both girls and boys
• Oct. 27: Week 7 patterns released – cowl for girls, jump rope for boys
• Nov. 3: Week 8 patterns released
• Nov 10: Fill Shoe boxes with other items
• Nov 16: Nation Collection Week Starts

Want to see ALL the patterns together? Click below to see the roundups!

Girls Patterns Here / Boys Pattern Here

Step 5: Pray…and Post!

If there is ONE thing I would ask you to do as you’re crocheting, it would be PRAY.

Pray over the items you’re making and the little boy or girl who will receive them. I believe God is able to make sure your box is put into the exact child’s hands who needs it.

Another thing you can do while crocheting (much less important, but still fun!) is post pictures of your items on Instagram or in the Facebook group. Use these pictures to bless and encourage others with what we’re doing together!

Step 5: Supplement with other items

You may have noticed in the schedule above that the ninth week is the time to fill your shoebox with other items.

What exactly does this mean?

Well, the crocheted items are a GREAT starting point for your shoebox. And they will take up a lot of room.

BUT…if you are able, I highly recommend adding a few other filler items! Boxes generally contain things like school supplies, and bed/bath items.

Because I’ve served with OCC for many years, I’ve seen a lot of items come through! There are some things that are not allowed to be included, such as any food items or liquid items.

I have made an amazon list with my recommended fillers that I would love for you to check out! It includes a lot of stuff I’ve seen come through in shoeboxes before.

You can also view OCC’s list of do not include items here.

Let’s Do this Together

Thank you SO much for your interest in this event! It is my hope and prayer that we, as the crochet community, can reach many people for the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Love you all

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I stepped through the opening—the door was a greenish color, made of metal bars. I realized everything was metal bars, everywhere.

The door I had just stepped through was also the door that kept so many people locked inside.

We went up a few flights of stairs. Surprisingly, there were prisoners outside of the cells. We moved on until we came to a large room. Rows of chairs lined the room. On one side, women. The other, men. We walked up the aisle.

I turned around, and suddenly it hit me. They were all…smiling. Every single one of them! There was no hopelessness, no gloom on their faces, but joy. Christ’s joy.

I was amazed. A church service in a prison!

Opening words were said in Tagalog. Then, all of a sudden, I heard my name. Before I knew it, I was searching for my bead-crochet example bracelet. I held it up to the crowd. Ooh’s and ah’s rippled through the room, and smiles got bigger.

After awhile, I was ushered back down the staircase and into a smaller room where me and two friends taught 30 women to crochet.

Michelle, Janice, Jonalyn, Annalisa…I wish I could remember all their names. Each one a precious soul, loved by Jesus.

Ah, such sweet memories. I will never forget.

I’M HOME! For 3 weeks in January and February I was on a mission’s trip in the Philippines…and I just got back a few days ago. I’m so excited to share testimonies about what God has done! For lots of pictures, be sure to watch the video below!

As many of you know, about a month ago I asked for donations for a giant crochet project for charity. I told you that I needed hooks, thread, and beads to teach women to crochet in the Philippines!

After I shared my need for supplies, SO many people came through and donated! Just 2 days after I asked for help, I got a huge box filled with amazon packages on my front porch.

BY THE WAY: as a thank you to my followers for all the help they put into this project, I’m running the biggest sale I’ve ever run today only! It’s called the $1 Pattern Sale! That means that you can get all my premium PDF patterns for around $1 (70% off). There is no coupon code needed…hop on over to ETSY or RAVELRY to shop!

As supplies came in, I began to put jewelry kits together. Pastor Noel, the pastor we worked with in the Philippines, told me to prepare 300 kits. This seemed like an insurmountable task – I had to wind thread, and put beads into individual bags. On top of that, I got sick a week before I was supposed to leave! Thank goodness for my supportive family, who helped me finish all the kits in time.

As I was leaving on this trip, there were several fears going through my head about the kits. Because this is a missions trip, I was afraid that plans might change and they wouldn’t need them. I was afraid that teaching wouldn’t go well.

As it turned out, my efforts would not be in vain. God worked mightily through this project…I was able to teach over 200 women to crochet in the church, prisons, and teen centers!

Crochet in the Prisons

Thank you so much for being here. When I get out of prison, I am going to use this skill as my livelihood.

– Prisoner at Calamba Jail

The place we taught the greatest number of women was in the prisons. We taught groups of women in at least 4 different prisons. The story I told at the beginning happened at the very first prison we went to, Santa Rosa Jail.

As I portrayed earlier, the dynamic was very different than I was expecting!

For one thing, I was expecting the prisons to be a dark, depressing place. I was expecting the attitude to be gloomy. However, what I found was exactly the opposite. Although overcrowded and hot, the women met us with huge smiles on their faces. When we began by singing and sharing testimonies, they listened intently and applauded with joy.

There was no resentment in them, even though we were on the other side of the bars. Instead, there was pure joy that they had company and fellowship. In fact, many of them are my sisters in Christ—such a joy in trials could only come from Him! It is my prayer that the words we spoke were an encouragement and refreshment to their souls.

After we spoke, Pastor Noel would figure out how the crochet teaching would work. It was different in every jail. In one, we had a room with tables. But in another, we had only a hallway! The women sat in rows with the materials on their laps.

It was definitely unexpected, but the wonderful thing was it didn’t matter. All that mattered was that we were there, and the women were excited to learn. And God worked through whatever circumstances we found ourselves in!

It was also such a joy when the women told me or Pastor Noel that they wanted to use this skill as their livelihood. After all, that was one reason I wanted to teach them!

It is such a blessing to know when God empowers us to do something, our labor is never in vain. From the very beginning, He knew what was going to happen. It was a growing experience learning to trust Him with the unknown—but it was so worth it!

Crochet in Teen Centers & Churches

The other places we taught in were two churches, as well as a teen center. Every single time I was amazed—the women and girls caught on so fast! Soon, bracelets and necklaces would be emerging, along with smiling faces.

Overall, the Philippines crochet project is amazing when I look back on it. I never expected something like this to happen. It shows me that often God has much bigger plans than we think! In fact, this is scriptural, according to Ephesians:

“Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work in us, to Him be the glory in the church and in Jesus Christ throughout all generations, forever and ever! Amen.”

Ephesians 3:20-21

God certainly did above what I asked or imagined. And in turn, just as the verse says, HE gets the glory. This entire project is because of Him. Without Him, it never could’ve happened.

By the way…if you’re interested in learning how to make the SAME jewelry I taught these women to make, I am going to publish a free tutorial soon! I promise, it’s easier than you’d expect. These women did it right after learning crochet basics. But if you’ve been crocheting for years, it will be practically effortless! Look out for that coming soon!

That’s it for today…but thank you for reading, thank you for supporting me! This project has been amazing to see unfold…and you were apart of that journey.

Thank you again, and happy Crocheting!

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