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May Crochet Goals + Free Project Planner

A new month means a fresh start—and a fresh skein of possibilities. Whether April flew by or left you with a pile of WIPs, May is your chance to reset, refocus, and get those hooks moving again.

Let’s make this month intentional, creative, and (most importantly) fun.

Download this free May planner PDF

May Crochet Planner – free download

✨ Step 1: Reflect Before You Plan

Before jumping into new projects, take a quick look back:

  • What did you finish in April?
  • What’s still a work in progress?
  • Which projects brought you the most joy?

Not everything needs to be carried into May. Give yourself permission to frog, finish, or forget.

🧺 Step 2: Choose Your May Projects

Instead of starting all the things, pick 2–5 projects max. This keeps you focused and helps you actually finish.

Try a mix like:

  • 🧸 1 quick project (amigurumi, baby rattle, small gift)
  • 🧣 1 relaxing project (blanket, scarf, repetitive stitches)
  • 🎁 1 purpose project (gift, market prep, or seasonal item)

🌸 Step 3: Think Seasonal

May is the perfect time for:

Now’s the time to swap heavy yarns for breathable, quick-to-make pieces.

🗓️ Step 4: Create a Simple Plan

Break your projects into small, doable goals:

Week 1: Start + set up projects
Week 2: Make steady progress
Week 3: Finish at least one item
Week 4: Wrap up + photograph + share

Keep it flexible—this is a guide, not a rulebook.

💡 Step 5: Set a Crochet Routine

Even 15–30 minutes a day adds up.

  • Morning coffee + a few rows ☕
  • Evening wind-down stitching 🌙
  • Weekend crochet sessions

Consistency beats marathon sessions.

💛 Step 6: Make It Fun, Not Pressure

You don’t have to finish everything.
You don’t have to follow trends.
You don’t have to be perfect.

Crochet is your creative escape—let it stay that way.

Download this free May planner PDF

May Crochet Planner – free download

NOTE: Downloading this worksheet adds you to my email list where I share new patterns, exclusive discounts, and crochet inspiration. You can unsubscribe anytime—no hard feelings!

Pet Appreciation Blog Hop

Welcome to the 2026 Pet Appreciation Blog Hop where you will find adorable crochet patterns just for your Fur Babies!

 

 

May is National Pet Appreciation Month, and boy do I have something exciting for you!  From May 1-14 there will be daily free and a couple of discounted crochet patterns designed specifically for your lovable pets.

www.joscraftyhook.com/2026-pet-appreciation-blog-hop

 

 

 

  1. Visit the 2026 Blog Hop daily, starting at 9a EST until 8:59a EST for the day’s Featured Crochet Pattern. www.joscraftyhook.com/2026-pet-appreciation-blog-hop
  2. Look for the day’s featured designer.
  3. Click on the “Get Coupon Code” Button where you will be directed to the featured designer’s website.
  4. Click on their “Click here for PDF” or their “Direct Download” Button.
  5. Use their Coupon Code at Checkout or download their crochet pattern.

 

 

 

Day 1 features the Pet Star Blanket from Jo’s Crafty Hook

Your pet is your Star, so celebrate them by making them their very own Star Blanket. The pattern can be customized for any size fur baby!

Visit the hop to get your 50% off coupon.

www.joscraftyhook.com/2026-pet-appreciation-blog-hop

 

 

ICYMI (In Case You Missed It)

Design Your Own Amigurumi Worksheet
Bear Mobile Pet
Zoo Animals Gift Tag

 

 

 

 

 

On this day in 2025

 

On this day in 2021

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Affiliate Links

This post contains affiliate links. If you use these links to buy something, we may earn a commission. Thanks for helping support my crochet blog. 

Lion Brand Yarn

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How do you unwind after a demanding day? Crochet!

After a long, demanding day, it’s easy to feel mentally drained, overwhelmed, and in need of a reset. Whether you’ve been juggling work, family, or a never-ending to-do list, finding a simple way to unwind isn’t just a luxury, it’s essential.

And one of the most comforting, creative ways to relax?  Crochet. 💛


🌿 Why Crochet Is the Perfect Way to Relax

There’s something incredibly soothing about picking up your hook and yarn after a stressful day. The repetitive motion, the soft texture, the quiet focus—it all works together to calm your mind.

Crochet gives you:

  • A break from screens 📱
  • A creative outlet 🎨
  • A sense of accomplishment ✔️
  • A moment that’s just for you

Even just 15–20 minutes can shift your entire mood.


🧘‍♀️ Crochet as a Form of Mindfulness

You don’t need a meditation app to feel grounded. Crochet naturally brings you into the present moment.

Counting stitches, watching your project grow, feeling the rhythm of each loop—it all encourages mindfulness without even trying. It’s a gentle way to slow down and let go of the day’s stress.


🕯️ Create Your Cozy Crochet Routine

Turn your crochet time into a relaxing ritual:

  • Put on your favorite show or calming music
  • Grab a soft blanket and your current project; maybe your current project is a soft blanket!
  • Make a cup of tea or coffee ☕

This small routine can become something you genuinely look forward to every evening.


Simple Projects for Stress-Free Stitching

After a long day, you don’t want something complicated. Choose projects that feel easy and comforting:

granny square

 

 

Repetitive stitch patterns such as granny squares 

 

 

 

Small amigurumi projects like the Baby Hippo Keychain

 

 

Giraffe Potholder Crochet Pattern

 

Potholders or dishcloths

Giraffe Potholder 

 

This is your no-pressure creative time.


💛 It’s Not About Perfection

Let’s be honest—sometimes you’ll miss a stitch, lose count, or have to frog a row. That’s okay.

Crochet isn’t about perfection—it’s about the process.

Every stitch is a reminder that you’re taking time for yourself, and that matters more than a flawless finish.


🌙 End Your Day with Something Meaningful

At the end of a demanding day, it’s easy to feel like you haven’t done enough. Crochet changes that.

Even if all you make is a few rows, you’ve created something with your own two hands. That’s powerful.

So tonight, instead of scrolling endlessly or stressing over tomorrow’s tasks, pick up your hook, grab your yarn, and unwind.

You deserve it.


💬 Let’s Chat!

How do you unwind after a long day?
Do you crochet, or do you have another favorite way to relax?

Tell me in the comments—I’d love to hear!

ICYMI (In Case You Missed It)

Design Your Own Amigurumi Worksheet
Mobile Menagerie
Zoo Animals Gift Tag

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Affiliate Links

This post contains affiliate links. If you use these links to buy something, we may earn a commission. Thanks for helping support my crochet blog. 

Lion Brand Yarn

 

Select yarns are 4/$20.00

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Mobile Menagerie: Tiny Amigurumi Teddy Bear for Your Phone

Who says crochet has to stay at home? 🧶✨

With the Mobile Menagerie Teddy Bear Pattern, you can take your handmade creations everywhere you go! These tiny crochet pets are designed to add personality, charm, and a whole lot of cuteness to your everyday essentials 📱💛


📱 Crochet Meets Everyday Life

We all love amigurumi—but sometimes we want something small, quick, and practical. That’s where these mini creations come in!

With instructions for attaching a suction cup, these tiny pets are perfect for:

  • Phone charms 📱
  • Laptop buddies🔑
  • Bag accessories 👜
  • Little gifts 🎁

They’re small enough to go anywhere—but cute enough to steal the spotlight 🐾✨


Why You’ll Love These Mini Amigurumi

Quick & Satisfying Projects

Short on time? These patterns are fast, fun, and perfect for those “just one more project” moments 😅 It took me less than an hour to crochet each one.


Perfect for Scrap Yarn

Got leftover yarn? This is your chance to use it! Mix and match colors to create unique little pets 🌈


🐾 Endless Customization

From playful pals to tiny critters, you can personalize each one with:

  • Different colors
  • Cute accessories
  • Unique facial expressions

No two will ever be the same 💛


Perfect for Gifts & Selling

These mini amigurumi make amazing:

  • Classmate gifts
  • Party favors
  • Market bestsellers
  • “Just because” gifts

They’re small, affordable to make, and absolutely irresistible 🧶✨


A Fun Way to Grow Your Crochet Business

If you sell finished items, this collection is a game-changer:

✔ Quick turnaround time
✔ Low material cost
✔ High appeal

Tiny products like these are perfect for impulse buys—especially when displayed as colorful collections 🐾📱


✨ Take Your Crochet Anywhere

There’s something special about carrying a handmade piece with you. It’s a little reminder of creativity, comfort, and joy—right in your pocket 🧶💛

With the Mobile Menagerie, your crochet doesn’t just sit on a shelf… it becomes part of your everyday life.


Get the Pattern Collection

Ready to create your own tiny crochet companions? 🐾✨ Get the full pattern collection of 10 different animals

👉Mobile Menagerie Amigurumi Crochet Pattern Collection


Let’s Get Creative!

What would YOU turn into a mini amigurumi? 👀

A pet? A favorite animal? Something totally unexpected?

Tell me in the comments—I’d love to hear your ideas 💛

 

 

Teddy Bear

 

 

 

 

Materials:

15 yards brown yarn

Size E (3.5 mm) crochet hook

Fiberfill

Two 5-mm black plastic eyes

10-mm black safety nose

1.18-inch suction cup with metal hook

Pliers

 

Directions:

Rnd 1: Ch 2 (or magic circle), 6 sc in 2nd ch from hook. Do not join. Work in continuous rnds throughout unless otherwise specified.

Rnd 2: *Sc in next st, inc in next st,* repeat around (9 sc).

Rnd 3: *Sc in each of next 3 sts, inc in next sc,* repeat around (15 sc).

Rnds 4-5: Sc in each st.

Rnd 6: *Inv dec, sc in next 3 sts,* repeat around (12 sc).

Insert eyes in Rnd 3 approximately 3 sts apart. Stuff head.

Rnd 7: Inv dec 6 times (6 sc).

Rnd 8: 2 sc in each st (12 sc).

Rnd 9: Sc in each st.

Rnd 10: Inv dec 6 times (6 sc). Join with sl st. Fasten off yarn leaving 9” length for sewing.

EARS:

Attach yarn at top of head at Rnd 3. Sc in Rnd 3, sc in Rnd 2, ch 1, turn, sk 1 sc, sc in next st. Fasten off yarn. Sk both sides of Rnd 1 on top of head and attach yarn at Rnd 2. Sc in Rnd 2, sc in Rnd 3, ch 1, turn, sk 1 sc, sc in next st. Fasten off yarn. Weave in ends.

SNOUT:

Rnd 1: Ch 2 (or magic circle), 6 sc in 2nd ch from hook. Do not join.

Rnd 2: Sc in each st. Join with sl st. Fasten off yarn leaving 6” length for sewing. Insert safety nose in center of Rnd 1. Sew snout to front of face at Rnds 3-5.

Metal hook on suction cup faces front, but it needs to be sideways.

Use pliers to turn hook sideways, then crimp ends of metal.

Insert hook into bottom opening of animal. Use hanging thread to firmly close opening and sew bottom closed. Sew a few stitches through the center catching the hook to give added stability.

Stick to back of phone with animal facing forward.

 

PDF includes all 10 animals

Mobile Menagerie Amigurumi Crochet Pattern Collection

ICYMI (In Case You Missed It)

Design Your Own Amigurumi Worksheet
Zoo Animals Gift Tag

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Affiliate Links

This post contains affiliate links. If you use these links to buy something, we may earn a commission. Thanks for helping support my crochet blog. 

Lion Brand Yarn

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Design Your Own Amigurumi: Free Printable Worksheet for Crochet Creators

Have you ever had the perfect amigurumi idea in your head… but didn’t know where to start? 🧶✨

Whether it’s a cute animal, a quirky mashup, or something totally unique, turning your idea into a finished creation can feel overwhelming. That’s exactly why I created this free Amigurumi Design Worksheet—to help you bring your ideas to life, one stitch at a time 💛


✏️ Why Use an Amigurumi Design Worksheet?

Designing your own crochet pieces doesn’t have to be complicated. With a little planning, you can go from “just an idea” to a finished project you’re proud of.

This worksheet helps you:

  • Organize your thoughts before you start
  • Plan colors and materials
  • Visualize your finished design
  • Keep track of all the little details

Think of it as your creative roadmap 🧶✨


🧶 What’s Inside the Free Worksheet?

This printable is designed to be simple, fun, and super helpful for crocheters of all skill levels.

🎨 Design Sketch Area

Use the back of the page to draw your idea—no artistic skills required! Just sketch out shapes, features, and proportions. I keep a box of crayons on hand to draw out my designs.


🌈 Color Planning Section

Choose your main color, accents, and details so your project looks exactly how you imagine it.


🧵 Yarn & Tools Tracker

Keep track of:

  • Yarn type and weight
  • Hook size
  • Extras like safety eyes, stuffing, and embellishments

🐾 Feature Checklist

Plan out your design step-by-step:

  • Head shape
  • Ears, arms, and legs
  • Facial details and expressions

✨ Special Details Section

This is where your creativity shines! Add:

  • Accessories (bows, hats, scarves 🎀)
  • Unique mashups (animal + food is always fun 🍓🐻)
  • Seasonal twists

📝 Construction Notes

Map out how you’ll build your piece:

  • Where to start
  • How many pieces you’ll need
  • Sewing vs. no-sew ideas

💛 Name Your Creation

Because every cute creation deserves a name!


🌟 Who Is This For?

This worksheet is perfect if you:

  • Want to start designing your own amigurumi
  • Love customizing patterns
  • Have lots of ideas but need structure
  • Enjoy planning before you crochet

📥 Download Your Free Worksheet

Ready to start designing? 🧶✨

👉 Download your free Amigurumi Design Worksheet here:
Free Printable Amigurumi Worksheet for Crochet Creators

Print it out, grab your yarn, and start creating something amazing 💛

Post your worksheet in the Facebook group, and let’s see how many people make it!

https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1Cbrto9RgP/


💡 Pro Tip

Once you design your own piece, you can:

  • Turn it into a full pattern
  • Sell finished items
  • Or build your own collection of original creations

Your ideas are more powerful than you think 🧶✨


🧶 Want More Crochet Inspiration?

If you don’t want to design and just want something ready to make, check out my patterns here:
👉 www.myfingersfly.com 

Zoo Animals Amigurumi Crochet Pattern Ebook

This great ebook is on sale for only $10.00 through April 12, 2026. No coupon code required.

 

20 amigurumi patterns with detailed instructions and color photos

 

animal pattern roundup
Free Animal Crochet Patterns

Affiliate Links:

This post contains affiliate links. If you use these links to buy something, we may earn a commission. Thanks for helping support my crochet blog. 

Lion Brand Yarn

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National Zoo Lovers Day – Zoo Animals Amigurumi Ebook

Create your own crochet zoo with this fun and adorable collection of amigurumi patterns 🐾✨
Filled with 20 cute animals you would find in the zoo and easy-to-follow designs, this ebook is perfect for making playful gifts, nursery decor, and lovable handmade friends 🧶💛

A wild crochet adventure awaits—one stitch at a time!

Zoo Animals Amigurumi Crochet Pattern Ebook

This great ebook is on sale for only $10.00 through April 12, 2026. No coupon code required.

20 amigurumi patterns with detailed instructions and color photos

There’s also a free sheet of gift tags to download for all those animal gifts you will be making.

Zoo Animals Gift Tag – free download

Zoo & Aquarium Month Blog Hop 

National zoo month crochet

 

Thanks to all these talented designers for joining me this month.

https://youtu.be/gEhfBrIQQm4

Fish crochet patterns

 

June 1 – Reef Awareness Day

 

 

June 2 – Zoo Blog Hop Day 2 – Owl Crochet Patterns                           June 3 – Zoo Blog Hop Day 3 – Bat Crochet Patterns

June 4 – Zoo Blog Hop Day 4 – National Hug Your Cat Day                June 5 – Bear Crochet Patterns

June 6 – Butterfly Crochet Patterns                                                             June 7 – Axolotl Crochet Patterns

June 8 – World Oceans Day – 4 Whales and 4 Turtles                            June 9 – Koala Crochet Patterns

June 10 – Lions                                                                                                     June 11 – 4 Cuddly Penguins

June 12 – Jack the Sloth                                                                                   June 13 – Mystical, Magical Unicorns!

June 14 – Alligators                                                                                             June 15 – Bunnies!

June 16 – Deer and Moose                                                                                Zoo Blog Hop Day 17 – Seahorse

Zoo Blog Hop Day 18 – Beaver                                                                         Zoo Blog Hop Day 19 – Monkeys

Zoo Blog Hop Day 20 – Eagles                                                                         Zoo Blog Hop Day 21 – Giraffes

Zoo Blog Hop Day 22 – Zebra                                                                          Zoo Blog Hop Day 23 – Sheep

Zoo Blog Hop Day 24 – Elephants                                                                 Zoo Blog Hop Day 25 – Dogs

Zoo Blog Hop Day 26 – Cows                                                                           Zoo Blog Hop Day 27 – Platypus

Zoo Blog Hop Day 28 – Mouse                                                                        Zoo Blog Hop Day 29 – Fox

Final Day of Zoo Blog Hop – Birds

 

Affiliate Links:

This post contains affiliate links. If you use these links to buy something, we may earn a commission. Thanks for helping support my crochet blog. 

Lion Brand Yarn