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2025 Year in Review

A Year of Stitches, Growth, and Gratitude

As 2025 comes to a close, I’m taking a moment to pause, breathe, and look back on a year filled with yarn, creativity, and so many small (and big) wins. This year reminded me why I love creating, designing, and sharing handmade projects with such a supportive community.

From new patterns and product ideas to lessons learned along the way, here’s a look back at what 2025 brought.


🧶 Creative Highlights of 2025

This year was full of creative momentum. I released new crochet patterns, experimented with fresh designs, and leaned into projects that brought both joy and practicality—especially those quick, giftable makes we all love.

Some highlights:

  • New pattern launches that quickly became favorites

  • Expanding seasonal and holiday designs

  • Creating more beginner-friendly and fast-finish projects

  • Exploring fun extras like gift tags, packaging, and printables

Each release helped me grow not just as a designer, but as a maker who listens to what the community actually wants and needs.


💛 Gratitude for This Community

None of this would be possible without you.

Whether you:

  • Purchased a pattern

  • Downloaded a freebie

  • Shared a finished project

  • Left a kind review

  • Let me know of an issue with a posting

Thank you. Truly. Your support turns ideas into real projects and makes this creative journey worth it.

Let’s recap all the postings that made 2025 so special.

January

Hexapod Alien Amigurumi
Ski Slope Hat
Sunflowers in Snow Scarf

 

 

 

 

 

Free Downloads

Law Enforcement Coloring Pages
Happy Hearts Coloring Page
Ladybug coloring page

 

 

 

 

 

February

Valentines Advent Day 1
Valentines Advent Day 2
Valentines Advent Day 3
Valentines Advent Day 4
Valentines Advent Day 5
Valentines Advent Day 6
Valentines Advent Day 7

 

 

 

 

 

Valentines Advent Day 8
Valentines Advent Day 9
Valentines Advent Day 10
Valentines Advent Day 11
Valentines Advent Day 12
Valentines Advent Day 13
cancer warrior doll
Kane, the Kick Cancer Doll Crochet Pattern

 

 

 

 

 

Free Downloads

Valentine’s Day Word Search
Crochet Word Search Worksheet
Yummy Valentine Coloring Page
Valentine’s Day Stationery
Caterpillar bookmark
Red Panda coloring page
Batty Valentines card

 

 

 

 

 

 

Horse Coloring Page
Valentine’s Day Animal Puns Coloring Worksheets
Puppy Love Gift tag
Love Hand Happy Valentine’s Day Greeting Card
Pink Monster phone wallpaper

 

 

 

 

 

March

Shamrock Tray crochet pattern
Leprechaun Gift Bag crochet pattern
Football Trinket Tray crochet pattern
Easter Advent Day 1, Bunnies

 

 

 

 

 

April

Easter Advent Day 2 – Chicks
Easter Advent Day 3, Ducks
Easter Advent Day 4, Lamb & Goat
Easter Advent Day 5, Donkey
Easter Advent Day 6, Baskets
Easter Advent Day 7, Eggs
Easter Advent Day 8, Clothing

 

 

 

 

 

Easter Advent Day 9, Accessories
Easter Advent Day 10, Patterns for Children
Easter Advent Day 11, Patterns for Baby
Easter Advent Day 12, Home Decor
Easter Advent Day 13, Flowers
Easter Advent Day 14, Miscellaneous Patterns
Flamingo Toilet Paper Cover crochet pattern

 

 

 

 

 

Free Downloads

Bunny Maze Worksheet
Joyful Easter folding card
Crochet Bucket List
Happy Easter Gift Tag
Happy Easter Children’s Coloring Book
Easter Bunny Letter
Duck Stationery

 

 

 

 

 

 

Butterfly Crossword Puzzle
Easter Bunny Find The Differences
Fun Easter Wordsearch Puzzle Worksheet
Happy Easter Egg Mindful Coloring Sheet
Easter Basket Worksheet
Palm Sunday Bookmark

 

 

 

 

 

May

Cinco de Mayo Pet Bandana
Hammer Baby Rattle crochet pattern
Octopus Car Vent Clip
Bearded Monkey Crochet Pattern
Bearded Monkey crochet pattern
Briefcase Baby Rattle Crochet Pattern
First Aid Kit Baby Rattle crochet pattern

 

 

 

 

 

Free Downloads

Rainbow Coloring Book
Endangered Animals Coloring Pages
Elephant Mandala Coloring Page
Happy Mother’s Day Coloring Page

 

 

 

 

 

June

Cat Keychain crochet pattern
Sloth Tumbler Boot
Hump Day Camel crochet pattern

 

 

 

 

 

Free Downloads

Turtle gift tag
Alligator Gift Tag
Platypus Bookmark
Lion Bookmark
Mindfulness Coloring Giraffe
Unicorn Quotes Coloring Book
Cute Cat Coloring Book

 

 

 

 

 

July

Space Alien Rattle crochet pattern
Coastal Military Baby Sweater Crochet Pattern
Coastal Military Baby Sweater crochet pattern
Christmas Cat Gift Bags
Coyote Ornament crochet pattern
Chef Baby Sweater
Kitty Caddy crochet pattern

Blueberry Muffin Recipe

Free Downloads

Coyote Gift Tag

 

 

 

 

August

Orange Padlock Keychain
Cat Gift Card Holder crochet pattern

 

 

 

 

 

Free Downloads

Dog Bookmark
Milky Way bookmark
Sir Purrsalot, the Dignified Cat coloring page

 

 

 

 

 

September

Piano Ornament crochet pattern
Strawberry Mummy crochet pattern
Blue Jean Ornament crochet pattern

 

 

 

 

 

Free Downloads

Ophelia’s death
Mummy Mask Template
Spooky Halloween Coloring Page
Rottweiler Christmas Gift Tag
Cute Animals Merry Christmas Gift Tag

 

 

 

 

 

October

Dachshund Ornament crochet pattern
Gargoyle Amigurumi crochet pattern
Frankencat Keychain crochet pattern
Cat Witch Treat Bag crochet pattern

 

 

 

 

 

Free Downloads

Halloween Coloring Book
Dachshunds Kissing Merry Christmas Folded Card
German Shepherd Christmas Gift Tags

 

 

 

 

 

November

Candy Cane Kitty crochet pattern
6 7 Ornament crochet pattern
Sam I Yam amigurumi crochet pattern

 

 

 

 

 

Free Downloads

Reindeer Christmas Tag
Robin Christmas gift tag
Nutcracker Christmas Stationery
Gingerbread House Coloring Book

 

 

 

 

 

December

Santa Socks circular knitting machine pattern
Christmas Ornament Advent Calendar
Beagle Christmas gift bag crochet pattern

 

 

 

 

 

 

Free Downloads

Gnome Gift Tag
Meowy Christmas Coloring Page

 

I have put together a bundle on Ravelry of the top 10 crochet patterns of 2025.

You will get my 10 most popular designs for only $10.00.

https://www.ravelry.com/redeem/my-fingers-fly-designs?sale=414582

 

 

 

 

 

 

✨ Looking Ahead to 2026

As I step into a new year, I’m excited to:

  • Release more thoughtfully designed patterns

  • Focus on quality, clarity, and fun

  • Create even more quick, giftable projects

  • Continue building a creative space that feels welcoming and inspiring

There’s so much more to come, and I can’t wait to stitch it all together with you.


Final Thoughts

2025 was a year of growth, creativity, and gratitude—one stitch at a time. Thank you for being part of this journey. Here’s to more yarn, more ideas, and more handmade moments in the year ahead.

Happy New Year and happy stitching!

Join us on Facebook so you never miss out on notifications: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1DRtHFggjE/

Planning for 2026

Planning for 2026 fills me with excitement and gratitude. There are so many ideas waiting to be stitched into reality, and I’m thankful to have such a supportive, creative community alongside me.

Thank you for being part of this journey—your support, encouragement, and creativity make everything possible.

Here’s to a year of intention, inspiration, and plenty of yarn.

crochet resolutions
Crochet Resolutions

What are your goals? Here’s a checklist to help you get started in the new year!

2026 Crochet Resolutions

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!

 

 

The October issue of I Like Crochet is now available, and it includes one of my designs – Modern Bowtie Dress.

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
Black Friday Sale – up to 70% off bundles

 

 

 

 

Amazon affiliate: https://amzn.to/4hkS5Zd

 

 

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French Fries Amigurumi Crochet Pattern

How is everyone doing this holiday season? Yesterday I finished the last 3 gifts I needed to crochet this year, but now I’m concerned. How could I have finished 4 days early? Did I forget to include someone? This evening I will be going through my gift list to make sure nothing was missed.

It has been an interesting year with plenty of challenges, both personally and professionally. The last 6 months we have been in limbo, waiting to see what our next stop is on this grand adventure of life. Things have slipped through the cracks in my business a few too many times, but I’m looking forward to getting settled somewhere and getting my blog and my shop back on track.

Here’s to a joyful holiday season for everyone, and may the new year bring you all the yarn you need. Happy Crocheting!!

The last free pattern for the year was designed for my niece as a Christmas gift. She really loves french fries! I hope you will enjoy making it for the teens in your life.

French Fries Plush Toy

Plush toy measures approximately 14” tall by 10” wide.

Materials:
Bernat Blanket yarn:
70 yards Crimson
60 yards Sunsoaked
Size M (9.0 mm) crochet hook

15-mm black safety eyes

Fiberfill

Gauge: 8 rows = 4”, 9 sts = 4

STITCHES:
Invisible decrease: https://youtube.com/shorts/0NC5nXyDvwI?feature=share
Ultimate finish: https://youtu.be/jVpTr8mId3I

Directions:
Rnd 1: With Crimson yarn, ch 18, sc in 2nd ch from hook, sc in next 15 ch, 3 sc in last ch. Working on opposite side of foundation ch, sc in next 15 ch, 2 sc in last ch (36 sc). Do not join.
Work in continuous rnds throughout unless otherwise specified.
Rnds 2-3: Sc in each st.
Rnd 4: 2 sc in next st, sc in next 16 sts, 2 sc in next 2 sts, sc in next 16 sts, 2 sc in next st (40 sc).
Rnds 5-6: Sc in each st.
Rnd 7: 2 sc in next st, sc in next 18 sts, 2 sc in next 2 sts, sc in next 18 sts, 2 sc in next st (44 sc).
Rnds 8-9: Sc in each st.
Rnd 10: 2 sc in next st, sc in next 20 sts, 2 sc in next 2 sts, sc in next 20 sts, 2 sc in next st (48 sc).
Rnds 11-14: Sc in each st. Join with sl st at end of Rnd 14. Fasten off Crimson yarn.
Rnd 15: Attach Sunsoaked yarn, sc in BLO of each st.
Rnds 16-21: Working in both lps, sc in each st.
Stuff.
Rnd 22: Lay flat to ensure starting at edge, sc in 20 sts, sk 8 sts, sc in 16 sts, sk last 4 sts (36 sc).
Rnd 23: Sk 4 sts, sc in 32 sts (32 sc).
Rnd 24: Sc in each st.
Rnd 25: Sc in 12 sts, sk 8 sts, sc in 8 sts, sk last 4 sts (20 sc).
Rnd 26: Sk 4 sts, sc in 16 sts (16 sc).
Rnd 27: Sc in each st. Join with sl st. Fasten off yarn.
Mark lines to divide the 6 french fries.
Insert safety eyes at Rnd 19, one in 3rd French
fry and the other in 4th French fry.
Sew ends of French fries closed at top. Sew lines between French fries, sewing through both layers, stuffing as you go.
Embroider mouth at Rnds 16-17.
Weave in all ends.

Add-free PDF version available at French Fries Amigurumi Crochet Pattern

 

In Case You Missed It

Christmas Tree Ornament
Christmas Card PDF
Christmas gift tag
St. Nicholas Gift Tag
Frog Snowman
Gingerbread Snowman
Cashew Ornament

 

 

 

 

 

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!

 

 

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St. Nicholas Gift Tag – Free Download

St. Nicholas Day, observed on December 6th, is a time-honored tradition celebrated in various parts of the world. This day commemorates the life and generosity of St. Nicholas, the patron saint of children, sailors, and merchants. Dive into the enchanting history and customs associated with St. Nicholas Day in this blog post.

The Legend of St. Nicholas: St. Nicholas, also known as Nikolaos of Myra, was a 4th-century Christian bishop who lived in what is now Turkey. He gained fame for his acts of kindness and generosity, especially toward children and those in need. One popular legend tells the story of him secretly providing dowries for three impoverished sisters, tossing bags of gold through their window at night. This legendary act of kindness laid the foundation for the modern-day tradition of gift-giving on St. Nicholas Day.

Celebrating St. Nicholas Day Around the World:

  1. Shoes and Stockings: In many European countries, children leave out their shoes or stockings on the night of December 5th, hoping that St. Nicholas will fill them with treats and small gifts. The next morning, children excitedly discover the surprises left for them.
  2. Sinterklaas in the Netherlands: St. Nicholas is known as Sinterklaas in the Netherlands, where the tradition involves parades, festive costumes, and the arrival of Sinterklaas by steamboat. Children eagerly anticipate the gifts and sweets that Sinterklaas and his helpers, known as Zwarte Pieten, will bring.
  3. Feasts and Festivities: St. Nicholas Day is often marked by special feasts and gatherings. Families and communities come together to share delicious meals, exchange gifts, and enjoy the spirit of giving.
  4. Acts of Kindness: Inspired by the generosity of St. Nicholas, many people use this day as an opportunity to perform acts of kindness and charity. Whether it’s volunteering at a local shelter or helping a neighbor in need, the spirit of giving is at the heart of the celebration.
  5. St. Nicholas Day Crafts and Activities: Families and schools engage in creative activities, such as crafting St. Nicholas-themed decorations, coloring pages, and story readings. These activities help children understand the values of kindness, compassion, and generosity.

Conclusion: St. Nicholas Day is a beautiful celebration that encourages people to embrace the joy of giving and share in the spirit of compassion. Whether you follow the traditions passed down through generations or create your own festive rituals, this special day provides an opportunity to connect with loved ones and foster a sense of community. As we commemorate the life of St. Nicholas, let us be inspired to spread kindness and generosity throughout the holiday season and beyond.

Christmas gift tag
Today’s freebie is a St. Nicholas Gift Tag

More Gift Tags

Christmas gift tag

 

https://myfingersflyblog.com/free-downloads-gift-tags-coloring-pages-bookmarks-etc/gift-tags-to-download/

 

In Case You Missed It

Christmas Tree Ornament
Frog Snowman
Gingerbread Snowman
Cashew Ornament

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Here’s an Advent Calendar to help you keep track of the December frenzy.

 

 

 

 

A New Ornament Every Day

One of the best parts is the daily excitement—revealing a new mini treasure to crochet. It could be:

  • A cute crocheted animal

  • A classic winter icon like a snowflake or mitten

  • A silly character that makes everyone laugh

  • A colorful bauble or tiny wreath

As the days pass, your tree slowly fills with color, personality, and charm.

Download the calendar which contains links to each day’s pattern. Ornament Advent Calendar

Each day in December, I will post a different ornament pattern in my Facebook group. https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1FGmsbZ3jM/

Purchase the bundle of all 24 ornaments for only $9.99

https://www.ravelry.com/redeem/my-fingers-fly-designs?sale=410562

 

 

 

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!

 

 

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White Elephant Exchange Gift Tag

white elephant gift tag

Are you doing a white elephant gift exchange this year? Our family does it every year, and we have so much fun with it.

  1. Invite your guests and tell them to bring a wrapped white elephant gift. Be sure to set a dollar amount limit so that everyone’s gift is the same in value. Often these are gag gifts. (Our family doesn’t allow liquor bottles or gift cards; that’s too easy!)
  2. Each gift should be wrapped. No name tag is needed on the gift, because you don’t yet know who will get it.
  3. Have a designated place for the guests to place their white elephant gifts as they arrive.
  4. Once you know how many gifts/guests there are, write numbers (For example, 1-15 if there are 15 guests) on individual slips of paper. Place each number in a bowl.
  5. Each person draws a number from the bowl.
  6. The player with number 1 gets to choose the first gift. They unwrap the gift in front of everyone.
  7. The player with number 2 goes next. They can either choose the gift player #1 unwrapped or choose a wrapped gift.
  8. If they choose player #1’s gift, player #1 gets to choose a new gift.
  9. The unwrapping and stealing continue until every gift has been claimed.
  10. Designate the number of times a gift can be stolen, usually 2-3 times.

white elephant gift tag

Although gift tags on the gifts are not required, I have a cute White Elephant Gift Tag for you to download if you want to make your white elephant wrapping extra special.

White Elephant Gift Tag

 

 

 

 

gift tags to download

More Gift Tags to Download

 

 

 

Beer Mug Earflap Hat Crochet Pattern (Women's and Men's Sizes)

A couple of years ago, I made a Beer Mug Hat for the family white elephant gift exchange, and it turned out to be the gift that everyone wanted!

Beer Mug Earflap Hat Crochet Pattern (Women’s and Men’s Sizes)

 

Remaining Paperback Books are 50% off through 12/15/2022

Do Unicorns Live Forever?
Do Unicorns Live Forever?
advent calendar
Advent Calendar Crochet Patterns
Crochet - Texas Style Crochet Patterns Ebook
Crochet – Texas Style Crochet Patterns 
It’s a Wonderful Life Advent Calendar

National Gingerbread House Day

Gingerbread House Ornament Crochet Pattern
gingerbread house gift bag
Gingerbread House Gift Bag Crochet Pattern

ICYMI (In Case You Missed It)

 

Penguin Treasure Map

Click on each photo on the PDF of the Treasure Map to find 8 more penguins.

 

 

polar bear butt ornament

 

Polar Bear Butt Ornament Crochet Pattern

 

 

reindeer butt ornament

 

Reindeer Butt Ornament Crochet Pattern

 

 

Christmas gift tag

 

Christmas Gift Tags

 

 

 

Affiliate Links

This page contains affiliate links. If you choose to purchase after clicking a link, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

 

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Horse Butt Ornament Crochet Pattern

horse butt ornament

Horse lovers will be delighted with their favorite animal adorning their Christmas tree. This Horse Butt Ornament crochet pattern works up quickly using just a few yards of worsted yarn, so it’s a great stash buster. You can even add some fun fur or eyelash yarn to create the furry feet of a draft horse. Crochet a few in different colors to adorn your equestrian Christmas tree. Make a few for your horse-loving friends and family. Please post copies of your horses on my Instagram. How many horses of a different color can we all create?

Skill level: Easy

Finished measurement is approximately 4.5” tall.

Materials:
Worsted weight yarn:
30 yards MC
10 yards CC
1 yard black
5 yards fun fur for draft horse
Size G (4.0 mm) crochet hook
Ribbon

Directions:

Rnd 1: With MC yarn, ch 2 (or magic ring), 10 sc in 2nd ch from hook. Do not join. Work in continuous rnds throughout.

Rnd 2: *Sc in next st, 2 sc in next st,* repeat around (15 sc).

Rnd 3: *Sc in next 2 sts, 2 sc in next st,* repeat around (20 sc).

Rnd 4: *Sc in next 3 sts, 2 sc in next st,* repeat around (25 sc).

Rnds 5-11: Sc in each st.

Rnd 12: *Dec over next 2 sts, sc in next 3 sts,* repeat around (20 sc).

Rnds 13-14: Sc in each st.

Rnd 15: *Dec over next 2 sts, sc in next 3 sts,* repeat around (16 sc).

Rnds 16-18: Sc in each st. Join with sl st at end of Rnd 18. Fasten off MC.

Rnd 19: Join CC, sc in each st. (For draft horse, use fun fur and turn work.)

Rnd 20: Sc in each st. (For draft horse, work one extra rnd of sc.)

Rnd 21: Lay flat and sc through both sides (turn if draft horse). 2 sc in first st, sc across, 2 sc in last st (10 sc).

Use black yarn to embroider line between legs from bottom up to Rnd 12.

Tail:

Cut 6 pieces of yarn 8” long (10” for braid) and fold in half. Insert hook into top center of Rnd 1. Pull yarn through st, then pull ends of yarn through center lp. Pull tight.

Add a bow to the tail for decoration.

Cut a piece of yarn approximately 12” long and fold. Pull through top of horse butt and tie off for hanger.

Weave in all ends.

PDF is available at Horse Butt Ornament Crochet Pattern

 

Download the Ornament Advent Calendar with links to all 24 ornament patterns

Ornament Advent Calendar

Purchase the bundle of all 24 patterns on Ravelry for only $9.99

https://www.ravelry.com/redeem/my-fingers-fly-designs?sale=410562

More Animal Butts

 

unicorn butt ornament
Unicorn Butt
penguin butt ornament
Penguin Butt Ornament
polar bear butt ornament
Polar Bear Butt 

 

 

 

 

 

More Horse Crochet Patterns

 

horse hoodie
Horse Hoodie
horse christmas stocking
Horse Stocking
Horse Coloring Page

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

ICYMI (In Case You Missed It)

astronaut dolls

 

Astronaut Doll Crochet Pattern

 

 

autumn birthday gift tag

 

Autumn Birthday Gift Tag

 

 

black cat potholder

 

Black Cat Potholder

 

 

dog toy crochet pattern

 

Pumpkin Spice Dog Toy

 

 

 

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!

 

Lion Brand YarnGet 35% off yarn & kits! 

35% off 10 balls with code 10BALLS