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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

Hooked on Winter 2026 Crochet Blog Hop

Join the Fun, Find New Patterns, and Stitch Along This Winter

Winter is the perfect season to slow down, grab your favorite yarn, and crochet something cozy—and the Hooked on Winter Crochet Hop is here to make it even more fun! This crochet hop brings together a wonderful group of designers, each sharing a winter-themed pattern for you to enjoy.

Whether you’re looking for quick makes, cozy accessories, or fresh inspiration, this hop is packed with creative ideas to keep your hook moving all winter long.


What Is the Hooked on Winter Crochet Hop?

A crochet hop is a fun, community-style event where designers team up to showcase their patterns over a set period of time. Each day (or scheduled date), a new winter-inspired crochet pattern is featured—giving you the chance to discover new designers and exciting projects.

A new pattern will be featured each day at 50% off the regular price for one day only, making it a great opportunity to grow your pattern library.

You can see the daily patterns at http://www.facebook.com/CrochetDesignerCommunity


Why You’ll Love This Winter Crochet Hop

The Hooked on Winter Crochet Hop is perfect for:

  • Discovering new crochet designers

  • Finding cozy winter projects

  • Trying new stitches and textures

  • Creating handmade gifts and accessories

  • Staying inspired during the colder months

From winter accessories to home décor, there’s something for every crocheter.


How to Participate

Joining the hop is easy:

  1. Visit this page daily January 3-15. Join MFF on Facebook for daily reminders: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/17MJDuVLuM/

  2. Check the daily featured pattern.

  3. Download or purchase the pattern using the hop’s special offer – coupon code 2026WINTER

  4. Grab your yarn and start crocheting!

Be sure to bookmark the page so you don’t miss any of the daily features.


Let’s Crochet Through Winter Together

Events like this are such a great reminder of how creative and supportive the crochet community is. Whether you participate in one pattern or follow along for the whole hop, I hope it brings you inspiration, joy, and plenty of cozy makes.

Happy hooking—and stay warm! ❄️🧶

January 3

Double Cross Mobius Cowl from Jo’s Crafty Hook

The Double Cross Cowl has a “double” meaning. The 1st part creates a twisted infinity scarf where you will crochet on both sides of the foundation chain. The crochet pattern uses the extended double crochet stitch and the crossed double crochet stitch to create the second part of its name.

https://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/double-cross-mobius-cowl

Use coupon code 2026WINTER for 50% off

January 4

Goldenstar Beanie from My Fingers Fly
Create a beautiful, cozy beanie with this Golden Star Hat crochet pattern—a stylish winter hat featuring eye-catching texture and a timeless design. Perfect for everyday wear, gifting, or craft fairs, this hat works up beautifully and adds a polished, handmade look to any winter wardrobe.
Ravelry: Golden Star Beanie pattern by Lisa Ferrel

Use coupon code 2026WINTER for 50% off

January 5
Snuggle Bug Cocoon from Jo’s Crafty Hook
The Snuggle Bug Cocoon is a perfect make to keep your preemie baby nice and warm inside a wrapped blanket design.

https://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/snuggle-bug-cocoon

Use coupon code 2026WINTER for 50% off

January 6

Toddler Peacoat from My Fingers Fly
Your little man (or lady) will be so stylish wearing this pea coat this winter. Make him (or her) this adorable double-breasted cardigan styled after the traditional pea coat with 2 rows of buttons on the front. This crochet pattern includes detailed instructions and step-by-step photos to crochet this adorable unisex pea coat in toddler sizes 1, 2, and 3.

https://ravel.me/toddler-pea-coat

Use coupon code 2026WINTER for 50% off

January 7

Diamonds in the Rough Beanie from SaiASmi – Dreamz in Yarn
A bottom-up mosaic crochet beanie – worked in 3 parts, the Brim, the panel and the top; this beanie is quick to work up!

https://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/diamonds-in-the-rough-beanie

Use coupon code 2026WINTER for 50% off

January 8

Winter Pine Table Runner from Jo’s Crafty Hook
Bring the beautiful colors of Pine Trees that are seen during the Winter months into your home. The Pine Trees are created using the Filet Stitch and with 5 sizes to choose from you can create the perfect fit for your tables.

https://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/winter-pine-table-runner

Use coupon code 2026WINTER for 50% off

January 9

January 10

Gratitude Blanket from The Crochet Fix
Pretty vintage square blanket design, featuring triangle lace motifs. Great for special occasion gifting.

https://ravel.me/gratitude-blanket

Use coupon code 2026WINTER for 50% off

January 11

Snowflake and Sprinkles Beanie from SaiASmi – Dreamz in Yarn
Worked from Bottom up, in two colors, this a quick to make and easy to customise beanie in Mosaic crochet.
The sizing is completely customisable by following highlighted instructions.

https://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/snowflake-and-sprinkles-beanie?set=&_rfoff=0

Use coupon code 2026WINTER for 50% off

January 12

Snow Bunny Wrist Warmers from My Fingers Fly
Keep your hands warm and stylish with these adorable Snow Bunny Wrist Warmers! This crochet pattern creates cozy, soft wrist warmers with a sweet winter-inspired look—perfect for chilly days when you need warmth without sacrificing finger movement.

https://ravel.me/snow-bunny-wrist-warmers

Use coupon code 2026WINTER for 50% off

January 13

Sprite Hat from Viva Crochet
This hat is worked on the bias in the shape of a parallelogram with the short sides sewn together and the crown is then worked in the round

https://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/spritehat

Use coupon code 2026WINTER for 50% off

January 14

Ziba Hat from Aara by Dina
The Ziba Hat is a bucket hat style, made with cotton yarn for the warmer climes. It includes two sizes to fit head circumferences up to 24”. Using single crochets worked in the round, for the crown and brim, gives the hat the perfect shaping and stiffness for a good fit. The lace pattern in the body gives a light and airy feel.

https://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/ziba-hat

BONUS BUNDLES

10 winter hat patterns for the whole family for only $10.00

https://www.ravelry.com/redeem/my-fingers-fly-designs?sale=414770

No coupon required

10 children’s sweater patterns for only $10.00

https://www.ravelry.com/redeem/my-fingers-fly-designs?sale=402068

No coupon required

 

 

 

 

 

Winter Bundle from Jo’s Crafty Hook – 9 beautiful winter designs in one great bundle!!

Not everyone likes to wear hats during the Winter, so Jo has put a great collection of Unisex Ear Warmers and Headbands Crochet Patterns to keep your family and friends warm this Winter.

Ravelry: Store: Jo’s Crafty Hook Designs

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Honoring Crochet Traditions on National Senior Citizens Day

Today, August 21, is National Senior Citizens Day, a time to honor the wisdom, love, and traditions passed down from one generation to the next. For many of us in the crochet community, our first stitches came from a grandmother, great-aunt, or another beloved elder who shared their time and talents with us.

My mother taught me to sew and embroider, and my father taught me to knit. He tried teaching me crochet, but I got bored with making nothing but chains. His mother tried to teach me the double crochet stitch, but there were too many steps for my 8-year-old fingers to get right. I got discouraged and went back to knitting and sewing. My aunt was my hero – she could do any craft that involved thread. Unfortunately, she didn’t live close enough that I could learn from her. We only saw her a couple times a year.

In high school, our 4H group got invited to ride in the annual rodeo parade dressed as clowns. I had a horse but no saddle, so I borrowed one from the neighbor. My friend Regina taught me how to crochet a granny square, so I made a saddle blanket for my horse. It’s not a great picture, but you can see the yellow and brown stripes peaking out from the edge of the saddle. That’s the first crochet item I ever completed.

Still, sewing was my main hobby, because I could make one-of-a-kind clothing to wear to school. It wasn’t until I was an adult that a coworker taught me how to read crochet patterns. That’s when crochet turned into an obsession!

As a young mother living in New York City, my girls had unique homemade sweaters, hats, and mittens every year. If I couldn’t find a design they wanted, I made one up based on their input.

Crochet is more than just loops of yarn—it’s storytelling. Each stitch holds memories, whether it’s a blanket that kept you warm as a child, a doily made with care, or the hours spent side by side learning how to hold the hook just right.

On this day, let’s take a moment to:
🧶 Remember the people who introduced us to this beautiful craft.
🧶 Share a story about a handmade item that holds special meaning.
🧶 Pass along a skill or project to someone younger to keep the tradition alive.

If you learned to crochet from a senior in your life, consider reaching out to them today to say thank you—or honor their memory by working on a project that reminds you of them.

Crochet connects us across generations. Every stitch is a thread in the fabric of family, friendship, and community. 💜

Do you have a special crochet memory with a senior in your life? I’d love to hear your stories in the comments below!

Milestone Sale

 

The sale isn’t over quite yet – you still have until midnight tonight to get 45% off any pattern.

Ravelry: Designs by Lisa Ferrel

National Dog Month

If you’re a crocheter, National Dog Month is the perfect excuse to whip up a project inspired by your furry friend. Think: dog-themed ornaments, paw-print blankets, or amigurumi pups that look like your dog. Handmade = heartfelt!

 

Enjoy this round-up of free dog amigurumi patterns, crochet patterns for dogs, and some canine gift tags.

 

In addition, any dog pattern in my Ravelry shop will be 50% off for the entire month of August.

Ravelry: Designs by Lisa Ferrel


ICYMI (In Case You Missed It)

Kitty Caddy
Cat Gift Bag
Coyote Ornament
Dog Bookmark
Orange Padlock Keychain

 

Affiliate Links

This post contains affiliate links. This means I may earn a commission should you chose to sign up for a program or make a purchase using my link. It’s okay – I love all of these companies anyways, and you will too!

 

 

Subscribe to get a one-year membership to I Like Crochet for only $5

https://www.ilikecrochet.com/subscribe-2col/gctmb559ncmc/?mqsc=AFMYFINGERSFLY

 

 

 

 

Lion Brand Yarn
Up to 40% off select yarns

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Amazon affiliate: https://amzn.to/4hkS5Zd
Best Seller on Amazon Haul

 

 

https://amzn.to/4joumZG

 

 

 

 

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🎉 Pattern #450 Is Here – Let’s Celebrate With a Sale! 🎉

I can hardly believe it – I’ve just published pattern number 450! ✨ When I started designing, I never dreamed I would reach this milestone, and it’s all thanks to YOU – the wonderful makers, crocheters, and supporters who have cheered me on along the way.

To celebrate this exciting moment, I’m throwing a special sale as a big thank you! 💖

👉 For a limited time, enjoy 45% off all crochet patterns in my shop. Use code MILESTONE through 8/21/2025.

Ravelry: Designs by Lisa Ferrel

Etsy: Designs by My Fingers Fly (no code required)

Texas Horny Toad Crochet Pattern

From my very first published design, the Texas Horned Lizard Plushie

To pattern #450, the Bulldog Christmas Stocking

This is the perfect chance to stock up on those patterns you’ve had your eye on, try something new, or even start your holiday gift-making a little early. Whether you love amigurumi, cozy accessories, or seasonal décor, there’s something waiting for your hook.

Milestones like this remind me how lucky I am to be part of such a creative and supportive community. Every download, every stitch, and every finished project photo you share keeps me inspired to design the next one (and yes – I’m already dreaming about pattern #500!).

Here’s a sneak peak at some designs I’m currently finishing up.

💌 Thank you for being part of this journey. Here’s to many more stitches, patterns, and celebrations together!

🧶 Shop the Sale Here: Ravelry: Designs by Lisa Ferrel

Hurry – this sale ends August 21, 2025!

Weekly Featured Pattern

You’ll Go “Quackers” for the Darlin’ Hot Pad!
This adorable ducky hot pad is as FUNctional as it is charming—sure to delight every duck lover in your life! Perfect for farmhouse-style kitchens, Easter décor, or as a thoughtful housewarming gift, it adds a cheerful splash of personality to any space. Fast, fun, and irresistibly cute, the Darlin’ Hot Pad is the perfect way to bring a little whimsy to your kitchen—or someone else’s!
Made with 100% cotton yarn, the pattern gives you two options:
>Double-strand version for excellent heat protection—ideal as a hot pad or potholder.
> Single-strand version for a cute decorative accent, dishcloth, or playful washcloth for the kids.
********************************************

National Dog Month

If you’re a crocheter, National Dog Month is the perfect excuse to whip up a project inspired by your furry friend. Think: dog-themed ornaments, paw-print blankets, or amigurumi pups that look like your dog. Handmade = heartfelt!

 

Enjoy this round-up of free dog amigurumi patterns, crochet patterns for dogs, and some canine gift tags.

 

In addition, any dog pattern in my Ravelry shop will be 50% off for the entire month of August.

Ravelry: Designs by Lisa Ferrel


ICYMI (In Case You Missed It)

Kitty Caddy
Cat Gift Bag
Coyote Ornament
Dog Bookmark
Orange Padlock Keychain

 

Affiliate Links

This post contains affiliate links. This means I may earn a commission should you chose to sign up for a program or make a purchase using my link. It’s okay – I love all of these companies anyways, and you will too!

 

 

Subscribe to get a one-year membership to I Like Crochet for only $5

https://www.ilikecrochet.com/subscribe-2col/gctmb559ncmc/?mqsc=AFMYFINGERSFLY

 

 

 

 

Lion Brand Yarn
Up to 40% off select yarns

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Amazon affiliate: https://amzn.to/4hkS5Zd
Best Seller on Amazon Haul

 

 

https://amzn.to/4joumZG

 

 

 

 

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Describe one simple thing you do that brings joy to your life.

One simple thing I do that brings joy to my life is crochet.  There’s something incredibly calming about the rhythm of the hook and yarn, and the magic of turning a simple strand into something beautiful and handmade. Whether it’s a cozy blanket, a cheerful amigurumi, or just a granny square, each stitch is like a little piece of peace.

Advantages:

There are more rewards that come with crafting – the joy of giving a handmade gift that is designed especially for the recipient is most important.

Creating items to donate to a battered women’s shelter or homeless shelter is very rewarding.

When I sketch out an idea, and the finished product comes out exactly as I had imagined, sometimes it makes me giggle (especially with amigurumi).

 

baby gator amigurumi
Baby Gator Amigurumi

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Community 

Between in-person meetings and online community, there are so many wonderful fiber artists that I have been blessed to meet over the years. Many of us collaborate on events throughout the year, including the Weekly Featured Pattern each Monday.

 

This week’s design is the lovely Lazy Daisy Market Bag from AJT Crafts. Check out Crochet Designer Community’s Facebook page to get your 50% off coupon.

http://www.facebook.com/crochetdesignercommunity

 

 

 

Sense of Satisfaction

Some days I get a little ego boost. Like today when I logged into AllFreeCrochet and saw my Pink Hippo Keychain pattern is #1 on the What’s Hot list.

AllFreeCrochet – 1000s of Free Crochet Patterns

 

 

 

A Small Joy That Adds Up

Crochet may be a small act, but it adds so much to my daily life. It’s my creative outlet, my stress reliever, my quiet joy. And on tough days, knowing I can pick up my hook and yarn is enough to bring a little light into the moment.

So, here’s to the simple joys — to the stitches that soothe and the projects that inspire. And to the power of finding happiness in the quiet, handmade things.

Passing on the Craft

Learn to Crochet a Potholder Complete Crochet Kit

 

If you would like to learn to crochet, there are several beginner kits available on my website with YouTube tutorials.