Generated by All in One SEO Pro v4.9.5.1, this is an llms-full.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site. # Jane Burns Knit & Crochet Designer Knit & Crochet Blog by Jane Burns ## Posts ### [Blog Posts](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/blog-posts/) **Published:** November 19, 2025 **Author:** Jane **Content:** - ![step by step knitted butterfly tutorial, free butterflies knitting pattern with photos jane burns](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/FI-step-by-step-knitted-butterfly-tutorial-jane-burns-150x150.png "Fi Step by Step Knitted Butterfly Tutorial Jane Burns Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer") [Step by Step Knitted Butterfly Tutorial & Free Knitting Pattern](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/step-by-step-knitted-butterfly-tutorial/)8 March 2026Are you looking to add that personal touch? Something quick, simple and really cute? Then I have just the thing for you. My step by step knitted butterfly tutorial including knitting pattern and photos, will have you making these cuties in no time at all. They are the perfect finishing touch to bags, hats, gloves, garments,… [Read more: Step by Step Knitted Butterfly Tutorial & Free Knitting Pattern](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/step-by-step-knitted-butterfly-tutorial/) - ![Two knitted cushion covers on a white sofa — Abbey Road NW8 street sign cushion in black, white and red, alongside a black and white striped zebra crossing cushion, knitting pattern by Jane Burns](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/FI-Abbey-road-cushion-knitting-pattern-jane-burns-150x150.png "Fi Abbey Road Cushion Knitting Pattern Jane Burns Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer") [Free Beatles Abbey Road Cushion Knitting Pattern, Knit Your Own Piece of Music History](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/free-beatles-abbey-road-cushion-knitting-pattern-knit-your-own-piece-of-music-history/)6 March 2026Because hanging a poster is so last decade. If you’ve ever stood outside Abbey Road Studios on a grey London morning, craning your neck to get a photo of that zebra crossing without being flattened by a taxi, then this one’s for you. And honestly, even if you haven’t, you’re going to want these cushions.… [Read more: Free Beatles Abbey Road Cushion Knitting Pattern, Knit Your Own Piece of Music History](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/free-beatles-abbey-road-cushion-knitting-pattern-knit-your-own-piece-of-music-history/) - ![why kniting for babies is different than knitting for adults](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/FI-knitting-for-babies-jane-burns-150x150.png "Fi Knitting for Babies Jane Burns Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer") [Why Knitting for Babies Isn’t Just Making Smaller Adult Clothes](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/why-knitting-for-babies-isnt-just-making-smaller-adult-clothes/)23 February 2026When I first started designing baby knits, I assumed it would be relatively simple, just scale down what I had learned about designing adult patterns. Pick soft yarn, and add a bit of cuteness. How hard could knitting for babies be? Then I knit a beautiful baby sweater, Soft yarn smooth stocking stitch fabric, everything… [Read more: Why Knitting for Babies Isn’t Just Making Smaller Adult Clothes](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/why-knitting-for-babies-isnt-just-making-smaller-adult-clothes/) - ![key to my heart, heart keyring knitting pattern jane burns](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/FI-key-to-my-heart-keyring-knitting-pattern2-1-150x150.png "Fi Key to My Heart Keyring Knitting Pattern2 Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer") [Key to My Heart Keyring Pattern – Free Knitting Pattern](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/key-to-my-heart-keyring-pattern-free-knitting-pattern/)11 February 2026You know those moments when you suddenly realise Valentine’s Day (or a birthday, or anniversary) is tomorrow and you haven’t got a thing sorted? I’ve been there more times than I care to admit! That’s exactly why I designed this sweet little heart keyring pattern. Reasons to love the free knitted heart keyring pattern… A… [Read more: Key to My Heart Keyring Pattern – Free Knitting Pattern](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/key-to-my-heart-keyring-pattern-free-knitting-pattern/) - ![blocking knitted fabric, blocking tutorial showing blue and white knit fabric before blocking](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/why-blocking-matters-fi-jane-burns-150x150.png "Why Blocking Matters Fi Jane Burns Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer") [Essential Guide to Blocking Knitted Projects, Tools and Techniques](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/essential-guide-to-blocking-knitted-projects-tool-and-techniques/)9 February 2026Understanding Blocking, Why Blocking Knitted Projects Actually Matters Let’s talk about blocking knitted projects. I know, I know, it sounds like an extra faff at the end of a project when you’re just want to wear your new jumper or gift that gorgeous blanket. But trust me when I say that blocking is the step… [Read more: Essential Guide to Blocking Knitted Projects, Tools and Techniques](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/essential-guide-to-blocking-knitted-projects-tool-and-techniques/) «[Previous](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/privacy-policy/) --- ### [Essential Guide to Blocking Knitted Projects, Tools and Techniques](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/essential-guide-to-blocking-knitted-projects-tool-and-techniques/) **Published:** February 9, 2026 **Author:** Jane **Content:** ### **Understanding Blocking, Why Blocking Knitted Projects Actually Matters** Let’s talk about blocking knitted projects. I know, I know, it sounds like an extra faff at the end of a project when you’re just want to wear your new jumper or gift that gorgeous blanket. But trust me when I say that blocking is the step that transforms your knitting from homemade to handmade. Blocking serves multiple purposes, primarily it’s about setting your stitches, enhancing the drape, and shaping your knitted piece exactly how you want it. When you block your finished work, you’re allowing those fibres to relax and settle into their intended form. Resulting in a polished, professional look that elevates even the simplest designs. One of the things I love most about blocking is how it transforms the texture and appearance of your knitted fabric. You can smooth out uneven stitches (we all have them, don’t worry!), open up lace patterns so they really shine, and increase the overall drape of a garment. It’s a bit like magic, really. ### Crochet Needs Blocking Too… All of the information in this blog post is also relevant to your crochet projects too! Check out the [**free crochet flowers patterns**](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/viola-free-crochet-flower-pattern-to-bling-your-trainers/), they all look at their best when they have been blocked. Blocking crochet really helps to open up those stitches and make everything look even and elevated. #### It’s a Kind of Magic ![blocking knitted projects showing before image of knitted fabric even](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/why-blocking-matters-800-x-1000-px-jane-burns5.png "Why Blocking Matters 800 X 1000 Px Jane Burns5 Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")Recently I knitted a baby garment with a trendy checked pattern. Stranded colourwork, two colours nice and simple. I thought you might like to see the knitted piece before I blocked it with a little steam. You can clearly see the stripes are slightly puckered forming what looks to me like a freshly ploughed field. ![stranded knitting colourwork fabric in white and blue squares showing the fabric pinned out reading for blocking](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/why-blocking-matters-800-x-1000-px-jane-burns3.png "Why Blocking Matters 800 X 1000 Px Jane Burns3 Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")Firstly, I pinned the piece out using blocking combs, gently stretching out those ridges (check your finished piece measurements against the pattern to make sure you are not stretching your piece too much, you still want the project to fit!). ![picture of knit pro knit blocker, combs for pinning our knitted fabric before blocking](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/why-blocking-matters-800-x-1000-px-jane-burns1.png "Why Blocking Matters 800 X 1000 Px Jane Burns1 Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")Then I used my hand steamer, WARNING, the piece was knitted using 100% acrylic yarn, I had already tested my swatch to see how it behaved with steam, please do the same. Keep the steamer at least 10-15 cm from the fabric and gently pat the fabric after each quick pass of the steam to ‘flatten’. NEVER steam ribbing, trust me. ![tefal hand steamer shown with knit pro knit blockers and a blue and white knitted fabric pinned out ready to steam block](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/why-blocking-matters-jane-burns-.png "Why Blocking Matters Jane Burns Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")Leave the piece to dry completely before removing the pins. ![smooth blocked white and blue check knit fabric showing the finished piece after blocking](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/why-blocking-matters-800-x-1000-px.png "Why Blocking Matters 800 X 1000 Px Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")Magic… ### **Wet Blocking vs Steam Blocking** Knitted Projects There are two main methods, wet blocking and steam blocking. Wet blocking involves soaking your project in water, gently removing the excess, and then shaping it to your desired measurements. Steam blocking uses the heat and moisture from a steam iron to encourage the fibres to settle into place. Each method has its advantages. Wet blocking is ideal for natural fibres like wool because it thoroughly relaxes the yarn. Steam blocking is often better for synthetic fibres that might not respond well to a full soak. But here’s a word of warning, take extra care when using steam on synthetics like acrylic. Too much heat will melt those fibres, and you’ll end up with a sad, crispy mess. Ask me how I know! #### **Essential Tools for Blocking** To block effectively, you’ll need a few key tools, and honestly, they’re worth every penny. Once you’ve got them, you’ll use them for years. Firstly, blocking mats. These are typically made from durable foam and provide a flat, cushioned surface for laying out your knitted pieces and pinning them precisely. I recommend getting the interlocking ones because you can customise the configuration for different project sizes. Whether you’re blocking a tiny baby bootie or an enormous blanket, you’re sorted. Bestseller #1 [ ![KnitIQ Extra Thick Blocking Mats for Knitting and Crochet Project...](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51gY8s4ad+L._AC_.jpg) ](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B01FVI1IGK?tag=janbur-21) [### KnitIQ Extra Thick Blocking Mats for Knitting and Crochet Project… ](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B01FVI1IGK?tag=janbur-21) £39.99 [ Buy on Amazon](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B01FVI1IGK?tag=janbur-21) Bestseller #2 [ ![Blocking Mats for Knitting, 9 Pack Knitting Blocking Mats and T P...](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51cCVprgxYL._AC_.jpg) ](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0F1CJ2Q6F?tag=janbur-21) [### Blocking Mats for Knitting, 9 Pack Knitting Blocking Mats and T P… ](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0F1CJ2Q6F?tag=janbur-21) £29.89 [ Buy on Amazon](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0F1CJ2Q6F?tag=janbur-21) Next, you’ll need T-pins or blocking combs. These are vital for securing your knitted pieces in place during blocking. Their unique shape provides much better support and stability than standard sewing pins, allowing for really precise adjustments. I always opt for stainless steel T-pins because they resist rust and maintain their strength over time. When you’re using them, space them evenly throughout the fabric to maintain uniformity in your blocked piece. A steamer is an excellent addition to your blocking toolkit. A handheld steamer is brilliant for delicate yarns because it provides a gentle touch without the risk of scorching. When you’re using a steamer, always keep it at a safe distance from the fabric to prevent any damage. You can also use a traditional iron’s steam function, but don’t press down on the fabric, just gently hover above it. Again, be especially careful with synthetic fibres. Blocking wires are another tool I’ve come to love. They help you achieve perfectly straight edges, especially on shawls and blankets. Thread them through the edge stitches and you can stretch everything evenly without a million pins. *I have added a selection of tools that I recommend, these products do have affliate links which provides a small income (and does not cost you anything extra)* [ ![KnitPro KP10878 Rainbow Knit BLOCKERS PK20, Assorted](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41jR+GTojkL._AC_.jpg) ](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07FPC1L46?tag=janbur-21) Bestseller #1 [### KnitPro KP10878 Rainbow Knit BLOCKERS PK20, Assorted ](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07FPC1L46?tag=janbur-21) £18.97 [ Buy on Amazon](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07FPC1L46?tag=janbur-21) [ ![KnitPro - KnitPro Mindful Tricoter Bloqueurs - 20 Morceaux, Blue/...](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41OWYHEsnmL._AC_.jpg) ](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0B7RZWVGF?tag=janbur-21) Bestseller #2 [### KnitPro – KnitPro Mindful Tricoter Bloqueurs – 20 Morceaux, Blue/… ](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0B7RZWVGF?tag=janbur-21) £19.18 [ Buy on Amazon](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0B7RZWVGF?tag=janbur-21) [ ![Lacis Blocking Wire, Multi-Colour, 14.22 x 14.22 x 0.15 cm](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41NgZFjNTGL._AC_.jpg) ](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B074P6WPC2?tag=janbur-21) Bestseller #3 [### Lacis Blocking Wire, Multi-Colour, 14.22 x 14.22 x 0.15 cm ](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B074P6WPC2?tag=janbur-21) £10.02 [ Buy on Amazon](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B074P6WPC2?tag=janbur-21) Bestseller #4 [### ](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B012D6RSUS?tag=janbur-21) £22.38 [ Buy on Amazon](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B012D6RSUS?tag=janbur-21) ### **Step-by-Step Guide to Blocking Your Knits** Let me walk you through both methods so you can choose what works best for your project. #### **Wet Blocking** Fill a bowl with lukewarm water and add a gentle wool wash or dedicated blocking solution. Submerge your knitted piece and let it soak for about 15-20 minutes. This gentle soaking helps the fibres relax, which means you can shape the piece more effectively. After soaking, here’s the crucial bit, do not wring or twist the fabric. I repeat, do NOT wring it! Instead, lift it from the water and gently press out the excess moisture whilst keeping its shape intact. My technique? I lay the fabric on a large bath towel, then roll the towel up like a Swiss roll with the fabric as the filling. Then I stand on the towel, using my body weight to squeeze out the excess water. Just take your socks off first, or like me, you’ll end up with soggy socks. Trust me on this one! Lay the knitted item flat on your blocking mat, shaping it to your desired dimensions. Use your blocking pins to secure the piece in position if necessary, making sure edges and stitches are even. Now comes the hardest part, patience. Allow the project to dry completely, which could take anywhere from a few hours to overnight, depending on how chunky your yarn is and your environmental conditions. Heated airers are brilliant for speeding this up. Just avoid leaving your pieces in direct sun to dry, you risk fading, and nobody wants that. [ ![lakeland Dry:Soon 3 Tier Heated Clothes Airer – Indoor Drying Fle...](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/31t75w-i1LL._AC_.jpg) ](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07DNYMXXZ?tag=janbur-21) Bestseller #1 [### lakeland Dry:Soon 3 Tier Heated Clothes Airer – Indoor Drying Fle… ](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07DNYMXXZ?tag=janbur-21) £139.99 [ Buy on Amazon](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07DNYMXXZ?tag=janbur-21) [ ![Highlands Electric Heated Clothes Dryer Folding Energy-Efficient ...](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41-R3zEl+LL._AC_.jpg) ](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B08PC8CZ32?tag=janbur-21) Bestseller #2 [### Highlands Electric Heated Clothes Dryer Folding Energy-Efficient … ](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B08PC8CZ32?tag=janbur-21) £27.99 [ Buy on Amazon](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B08PC8CZ32?tag=janbur-21) ### **Steam Blocking** For this method, you’ll need a handheld steamer, steam iron or steam generator. Start by laying your knit project flat on the blocking mat and pinning it into shape according to your pattern measurements. Here’s the important bit, avoid direct contact with the iron to prevent burning or crushing the fibres. Instead, hold the iron a few inches above the fabric and gently steam the item, targeting the areas that need reshaping. Be careful not to saturate the fabric, the goal is to relax the stitches, not drown them! Allow the knitted item to cool in its new shape, and make sure it dries completely before removing any pins. I usually give it at least an hour, sometimes longer if it’s a particularly thick piece. With practice, you’ll develop real confidence in your blocking skills, and your finished pieces will look absolutely stunning. Bestseller #1 [ ![Russell Hobbs Steam Genie Handheld Clothes Steamer, No Ironing Bo...](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/311VCkia0DL._AC_.jpg) ](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0B2DQVVZS?tag=janbur-21) [### Russell Hobbs Steam Genie Handheld Clothes Steamer, No Ironing Bo… ](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0B2DQVVZS?tag=janbur-21) - No Ironing Board Required – Steam freshens clothes that are hard to clean while they’re hanging up and can eliminate wri… - Kills up to 99.9 percent of Bacteria in 60 Seconds\* – Keep your clothes clean and kill bacteria. \*tested on 2 types of b… - 20 Gram Steam Output – A 20g steam output gives you plenty of steam power to eliminate creases and leave clothes feeling… £24.00 [ Buy on Amazon](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0B2DQVVZS?tag=janbur-21) Bestseller #2 [ ![Swan SI12030N Foldable Garment Steamer with Removable Brush Attac...](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/414QWZCLFpL._AC_.jpg) ](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0CNXWZ28R?tag=janbur-21) [### Swan SI12030N Foldable Garment Steamer with Removable Brush Attac… ](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0CNXWZ28R?tag=janbur-21) - STAINLESS STEEL STEAMER PANEL: Crafted with precision, the stainless steel steamer panel delivers even heat distribution… - 18 GRAMS PER MINUTE STEAM RATE: With an impressive 18 grams per minute steam rate, wrinkles don’t stand a chance, Your c… - REMOVABLE BRUSH: The Swan Garment Steamer features a removable brush attachment, making it even more versatile, It gentl… £22.49 [ Buy on Amazon](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0CNXWZ28R?tag=janbur-21) ### **Troubleshooting Common Blocking Issues** Right, let’s talk about when things don’t go quite to plan. We’ve all been there, so don’t panic! One common issue is uneven shaping, which usually comes from variations in stitch tension or improper pinning. To fix this, make sure your project is spread evenly on your blocking surface. This is where blocking wires really come into their own, they help you anchor the edges and maintain consistent tension throughout the piece. Shrinking or growing is another concern, particularly with natural fibres. Different yarns react uniquely to moisture and heat, which can lead to unexpected size changes. My advice? Always block a swatch first before tackling your entire project. If shrinkage does occur, you can try soaking the piece again and gently stretching it back to your desired dimensions. It might help, but going forward with that yarn, you’ll know to be more cautious about your blocking method. The beauty of blocking is that once you understand it, you can confidently finish any project knowing it’ll look its absolute best. Your creations will achieve the shape you envisioned and maintain their aesthetic value, which honestly makes all the effort worthwhile. There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of a beautifully blocked piece! ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/066546b2ab152951e53046e0634284d4bd3766d38e38270c664a7d8b09f40cd9?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Jane Designer behind Jane Burns Knitting and Crochet Patterns [See Full Bio](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/author/admin/) [ ](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/author/admin/) **Categories:** Knitting Tips, Tutorials **Tags:** block crochet, block knits, blocking, blocking knitted fabric, knitting tools, technique --- ### [Step by Step Knitted Butterfly Tutorial & Free Knitting Pattern](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/step-by-step-knitted-butterfly-tutorial/) **Published:** March 8, 2026 **Author:** Jane **Content:** Are you looking to add that personal touch? Something quick, simple and really cute? Then I have just the thing for you. My step by step knitted butterfly tutorial including knitting pattern and photos, will have you making these cuties in no time at all. They are the perfect finishing touch to bags, hats, gloves, garments, shoes, you get the idea. Why not make them into hair clips or brooches? ![Quick and easy knitted butterflies tutorial, cute butterfly knitting pattern by jane burns](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/knitted-butterfly-tutorial-jane-burns-pin-10.png "Knitted Butterfly Tutorial Jane Burns Pin 10 Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")## Need more reasons to make butterflies and use the Step by Step Knitted Butterfly Tutorial? They are perfect for using up the leftover yarn you have sitting in your stash. Great last minute gifts, (or homemade touch for that last minute gift). Make them for fun! You can use any weight yarn you desire, just remember to adjust your needle size accordingly. The examples shown are worked in 4ply sock yarn (3.25mm needles) and DK yarn (4mm needles). Note, the heavier the yarn, the bigger the butterfly. If you are looking for an excellent resource to help you match your needle size to your yarn, check out [Standard Yarn Weight System]() here… https://www.craftyarncouncil.com/standards/yarn-weight-system ![step one, step by step Knitted butterfly tutorial easy butterfly knitting pattern jane burns](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/knitted-butterfly-tutorial-jane-burns-o2.png "Knitted Butterfly Tutorial Jane Burns O2 Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")Variegated yarn makes really pretty butterflies. my top tip wind off the yarn so that you are starting at a point where the yarn is gradually changing colour. Then use a contrasting colour for the body of the butterfly. ### **Knit Kit:** - Yarn of your choice - Needles according to yarn choice - Sewing needle - Small buttons (optional) #### ***For antennae*** - Thin gauge silver craft wire - Wire cutters - Small buttons - Brooch bar - Hair clip **Tension:** not critical 🙂 **Finished size:** 4ply yarn – approx. 4cm wide DK yarn – approx. 6cm wide ## Step by Step Knitted Butterfly Pattern ### **Butterfly Body** Cast on 15 sts in yarn and needles of your choice. **Row 1:** Knit **Row 2:** Purl. **Row 3:** Knit **Row 4**: Purl. **Row 5:** Sl1, k1, ssk, knit to last 4 sts, k2tog, k2. \[13 sts\] **Row 6:** Purl. **Row 7:** Sl1, k1, ssk, knit to last 4 sts, k2tog, k2. \[11sts\] **Row 8:** Purl. **Row 9:** Sl1, k1, ssk, knit to last 4 sts, k2tog, k2. \[9 sts\] **Row 10:** Purl. **Row 11:** Knit. **Row 12:** Purl. **Row 13:** Sl1, k1, m1, knit to last 2 sts, m1, k2. \[11 sts\] **Row 14:** Purl. **Row 15:** Sl1, k1, m1, knit to last 2 sts, m1, k2 . \[13 sts\] **Row 16:** Purl. Cast off, darn in ends. ### Looking for a list of Abbreviations used in my knitting patterns? You can download a copy of my [Abbreviations guide here](https://shop.janeburns.co.uk/search?q=free+knitting+abbreviations+guide) for free ![free abbreviations guide for all jane burns knitting patterns](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/image-of-abbreviations-pdf-download-example-jane-burns-720x1024.png "Image of Abbreviations Pdf Download Example Jane Burns Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")f[ree abbreviations guide for all jane burns knitting patterns](https://shop.janeburns.co.uk/search?q=free+knitting+abbreviations+guide)### ***To Form the Body*** The cast on edge forms the top of the butterfly, the cast off edge, the bottom. Gently gather the middle of the butterfly bring the cast off, cast on edges together. ![step two of step by step Knitted butterfly tutorial easy butterfly knitting pattern jane burns](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/knitted-butterfly-tutorial-jane-burns-o3.png "Knitted Butterfly Tutorial Jane Burns O3 Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")Wrap a contrasting yarn around the centre and gather to form a ‘body’. ![step three Knitted butterfly tutorial easy butterfly knitting pattern jane burns](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/knitted-butterfly-tutorial-jane-burns-o4.png "Knitted Butterfly Tutorial Jane Burns O4 Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")![step four Knitted butterfly tutorial easy butterfly knitting pattern jane burns](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/knitted-butterfly-tutorial-jane-burns-o5-1.png "Knitted Butterfly Tutorial Jane Burns O5 Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")Continue to wrap yarn around until you are happy with the size of the body and secure on the wrong side of the butterfly. Reshape the body as you go until you get that perfect butterfly. ![step five of step by step Knitted butterfly tutorial easy butterfly knitting pattern jane burns](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/knitted-butterfly-tutorial-jane-burns-o6.png "Knitted Butterfly Tutorial Jane Burns O6 Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")Now you can add some personality to your butterfly. Small buttons in contrasting colours are a great way to add a touch of personality to your butterfly. ![step six Knitted butterfly tutorial easy butterfly knitting pattern jane burns](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/knitted-butterfly-tutorial-jane-burns-o7.png "Knitted Butterfly Tutorial Jane Burns O7 Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")### Why not add some antennae to your quick and easy knitted butterflies? ![step seven of step by step Knitted butterfly tutorial easy butterfly knitting pattern jane burns](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/knitted-butterfly-tutorial-jane-burns-o16.png "Knitted Butterfly Tutorial Jane Burns O16 Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")## ***To Make Antennae*** I have used quite a heavy gauge wire for the purpose of making the instruction clearer. I would recommend a fine but sturdy wire which will hold its shape well. Cut a length of wire approx 15cm long, use pliers to fold end over and thread through button holes. ![step 8 Knitted butterfly tutorial easy butterfly knitting pattern jane burns](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/knitted-butterfly-tutorial-jane-burns-o9.png "Knitted Butterfly Tutorial Jane Burns O9 Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")Twist wire around antenna to secure. ![step 9 Knitted butterfly tutorial easy butterfly knitting pattern jane burns](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/knitted-butterfly-tutorial-jane-burns-o10.png "Knitted Butterfly Tutorial Jane Burns O10 Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")Fold antennae in half. ![step 10 Knitted butterfly tutorial easy butterfly knitting pattern jane burns](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/knitted-butterfly-tutorial-jane-burns-o11.png "Knitted Butterfly Tutorial Jane Burns O11 Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")Once again fold end over and thread through buttons holes, making both antennae same length, trim any excess wire and wrap around antennae to secure. ![step 11 Knitted butterfly tutorial easy butterfly knitting pattern jane burns](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/knitted-butterfly-tutorial-jane-burns-o12.png "Knitted Butterfly Tutorial Jane Burns O12 Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")![step 12 Knitted butterfly tutorial easy butterfly knitting pattern jane burns](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/knitted-butterfly-tutorial-jane-burns-o13.png "Knitted Butterfly Tutorial Jane Burns O13 Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")![step 13 Knitted butterfly tutorial easy butterfly knitting pattern jane burns](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/knitted-butterfly-tutorial-jane-burns-o14.png "Knitted Butterfly Tutorial Jane Burns O14 Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")Thread through body at back of butterfly and secure with stitches. ![step 13 Knitted butterfly tutorial easy butterfly knitting pattern jane burns](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/knitted-butterfly-tutorial-jane-burns-o15.png "Knitted Butterfly Tutorial Jane Burns O15 Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")![step seven Knitted butterfly tutorial easy butterfly knitting pattern jane burns](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/knitted-butterfly-tutorial-jane-burns-o16.png "Knitted Butterfly Tutorial Jane Burns O16 Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")Why not sew the butterfly directly onto the project and embroider on some antennae using contrasting yarn and buttons. *Use a hot glue gun (or sew) your quick and easy knitted butterflies to hair clips or brooch bars.* *If you are looking for some crochet embellishments, check out my [crochet flowers free patterns here](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/viola-free-crochet-flower-pattern-to-bling-your-trainers/)*: https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/viola-free-crochet-flower-pattern-to-bling-your-trainers/ Please post pictures of your finished creations on my [Facebook page](https://www.facebook.com/KnittingImage), I would love to see them. ![Quick and easy knitted butterflies tutorial, cute butterfly knitting pattern by jane burns](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/knitted-butterfly-tutorial-jane-burns-pin-4-683x1024.png "Knitted Butterfly Tutorial Jane Burns Pin 4 Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer") ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/066546b2ab152951e53046e0634284d4bd3766d38e38270c664a7d8b09f40cd9?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Jane Designer behind Jane Burns Knitting and Crochet Patterns [See Full Bio](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/author/admin/) [ ](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/author/admin/) **Categories:** Free Knitting Patterns, Tutorials, Uncategorized **Tags:** free knitting pattern, free pattern, knitting pattern, technique --- ### [Meet Tiny Tina, Free Crochet Flower Pattern for your Sneakers Makeover](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/meet-tiny-tina-crochet-flower-pattern-for-your-sneaker-makeover/) **Published:** November 19, 2025 **Author:** Jane **Content:** Tina might be Tiny but she is an elegant addition to your Crochet Flower Pattern collection. Not only is Tiny Tina super cute, but better still sooooooooo fast to make. Tiny Tina also makes great hairclips. Can you suggest anything else we could use Tiny Tina for? ![converse-style-crochet-flower-tutorial jane burns](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/converse-style-crochet-flower-tutorial-1.jpg "Converse style crochet flower tutorial 1 Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")![converse-style-crochet-flower-tutorial tiny tina finished.fw jane burns](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/converse-style-crochet-flower-tutorial-tiny-tina-finished-fw.jpg "Converse style crochet flower tutorial tiny tina finished fw Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")**The pattern is written in UK crochet terms** ### ***To make Tiny Tina, y**ou will need:*** 3mm crochet hook, 4ply cotton yarn and two 2.5cm buttons, sewing needle and thread. ***Finished measurement**: 7cm diameter* #### **Start hookin’ your Crochet Flower Pattern here….** Using 3mm hook and 4ply yarn, Ch10, join into a ring with a sl st into first ch. Round 1: Ch1, \*1htr, 3tr, 1htr, 1dc into the ring; rep from \* three times, 1htr, 3tr, 1htr, into the ring, join with a sl st into top of beg ch1. Fasten off, darn in ends and block if desired. Simply pop over the button to secure onto the shoe. I said it was quick, didn’t I? ![converse-style-crochet-flower-tutorial tiny tina.fw jane burns](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/converse-style-crochet-flower-tutorial-tiny-tina-fw.jpg "Converse style crochet flower tutorial tiny tina fw Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")[Violet Crochet Flower Pattern can be found here…](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/violet-crochet-flower-pattern-for-sneakers/ "Violet – Crochet Flower Pattern for Sneakers") [Poppy Crochet Flower Pattern can be found here…](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/new-crochet-flower-pattern-for-your-sneaker-makeover-poppy/ "New Crochet Flower Pattern for your Sneaker Makeover – Poppy") [Viola Crochet Flower Pattern can be found here…](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/viola-free-crochet-flower-pattern-to-bling-your-trainers/) ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/066546b2ab152951e53046e0634284d4bd3766d38e38270c664a7d8b09f40cd9?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Jane Designer behind Jane Burns Knitting and Crochet Patterns [See Full Bio](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/author/admin/) [ ](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/author/admin/) **Categories:** Free Crochet Patterns **Tags:** crochet flower, crochet pattern, free crochet pattern --- ### [Thousands of Crochet Cuties Counted for the Guinness Crochet World Record Attempt](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/thousands-of-crochet-cuties-counted-for-the-guinness-crochet-world-record-attempt/) **Published:** January 1, 2026 **Author:** Jane **Content:** > *This post about the crochet world record count was originally written back in 2014, when I relaunched my blog last year I decided this post needed to be kept available. It was such a huge event and memorable day and I just did not want to forget it.* August was such a hectic month, school was out and I had planned some quality relaxation time, plenty of PJ days and long sleep ins. Reality was the tail end of the Christmas deadline rush. The magazines work many months in advance and I spend my life in two time zones, real time and magazine time. There were plenty of pj days, knitting in pj days and even some crochet in pj days. Crochet is now accounting for a third of my commissions. So lovely to see this craft thriving along side knitting and the knit/crochet divide being eroded. The remainder of the days were spent getting Little Miss ready for her first day at secondary school. It is amazing how much she as grown during the holidays! Many, many, many items of uniform to be named, oh now I love that! Little Miss has survived her first few days at her new school and loves it, particularly the meals, that’s my girl! Amongst this hive of activity I was asked to attend the counting of the Guinness Book of World records attempt for the most crochet sculptures in one place. What an honour, the original record stood at 4,061! Girls at [The Craft Club](https://www.facebook.com/thecraftclubyarnbomb) put a call out for crochet pieces with the theme of Enid Blytons Faraway Tree and the response was jaw dropping. ## Crochet World Record Count of Hundreds of Bunnies………… ![hundreds of crochet bunnies, rabbits being counted for world record attempt](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/crochet-guiness-world-record-attempt-7-1.jpg "Crochet Guiness World Record Attempt 7 Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")*hundreds of crochet bunnies being counted for world record attempt*## Strawberries….. ![hundreds of crochet strawberries being counted for world record attempt](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/crochet-guiness-world-record-attempt-6.jpg "Crochet Guiness World Record Attempt 6 Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")*hundreds of crochet strawberries being counted for world record attempt*## Owls ![hundreds of crochet owls being counted for world record attempt](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/crochet-guiness-world-record-attempt-5.jpg "Crochet Guiness World Record Attempt 5 Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")*hundreds of crochet owls being counted for world record attempt*## Mushrooms….. ![hundreds of crochet owls being counted for world record attempt](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/crochet-guiness-world-record-attempt-1.jpg "Crochet Guiness World Record Attempt 1 Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")*hundreds of crochet owls being counted for world record attempt*## Crochet World Record Count of Apples…… ![hundreds of crochet apples being counted for world record attempt](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/crochet-guiness-world-record-attempt-3.jpg "Crochet Guiness World Record Attempt 3 Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")*hundreds of crochet apples being counted for world record attempt*## Acorns…. ![hundreds of crochet apples being counted for world record attempt](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/crochet-guiness-world-record-attempt-4.jpg "Crochet Guiness World Record Attempt 4 Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")*hundreds of crochet apples being counted for world record attempt*And even this tiny wee duck! ![hundreds of crochet apples being counted for world record attempt](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/crochet-guiness-world-record-attempt-2.jpg "Crochet Guiness World Record Attempt 2 Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")*micro crochet duck*Laid out in the field for counting before being assembled in the garden of Little Havens Childrens Hospice for the enjoyment of the children and their families. ![crochet fairytale characters at the crochet guiness world record count](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/crochet-guiness-world-record-attempt.jpg "Crochet Guiness World Record Attempt Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")The judges, including my friend Sarah Neal and myself counted an earth shattering 13,388 crochet items! ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/066546b2ab152951e53046e0634284d4bd3766d38e38270c664a7d8b09f40cd9?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Jane Designer behind Jane Burns Knitting and Crochet Patterns [See Full Bio](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/author/admin/) [ ](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/author/admin/) **Categories:** News, Yarn Reviews --- ### [Viola, Free Crochet Flower Pattern to Bling your Trainers](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/viola-free-crochet-flower-pattern-to-bling-your-trainers/) **Published:** November 19, 2025 **Author:** Jane **Content:** Need another excuse to make pretty things? Well……………… today is Friday and what better way to celebrate than with a new pair of shoes? Almost! Meet Viola Crochet Flower Pattern ##### **Meet Viola, she is a little bolder than her little sister Vi, but not quite as loud as her big sis Violet!** ***The pattern is written in UK crochet terms*** ![converse-style-crochet-flower-tutorial jane burns viola flower](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/converse-style-crochet-flower-tutorial-768x512-1.jpg "Converse style crochet flower tutorial 768x512 Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")![converse-style-crochet-flower-tutorial viola finished.fw jane burns](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/converse-style-crochet-flower-tutorial-viola-finished-fw-768x510-1.jpg "Converse style crochet flower tutorial viola finished fw 768x510 Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")***To make Viola, y**ou will need:*** 3mm crochet hook, 4ply cotton yarn and two 2.5cm buttons, sewing needle and thread. *Finished measurement – 7cm diameter* **Start hookin’ here….** Using 3mm hook and 4ply yarn, Ch12, join into a ring with a sl st into first ch Round 1: Ch2, 23dc into ring, close with a sl st into top of beg ch2. Round 2: Ch5, (counts as 1tr, 2ch) 1tr into next dc, ch1, (skip next 2dc, 1tr, ch2, 1tr, ch1 into next dc) seven times in total, close with a sl st into third ch of beg ch5. Round 3: Ch3, 1tr, ch2, 2tr into the ch-2 space below, 1dc into ch-1 space below. (2tr, ch2, 2tr, ch1 into next ch-2 space below, 1dc into 1ch space below) repeat seven times in total, close with a sl st into third chain of beg ch3. Fasten off, darn in ends and block if desired. Simply pop over the button to secure onto the shoe. ![converse-style-crochet-flower-tutorial viola. crochet flower pattern](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/converse-style-crochet-flower-tutorial-viola-fw-768x513-1.jpg "Converse style crochet flower tutorial viola fw 768x513 Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")[You can find the Violet Free Crochet Flower Pattern here…](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/violet-crochet-flower-pattern-for-sneakers/ "Violet – Crochet Flower Pattern for Sneakers") [You can find the Tiny Tina Free Crochet Flower Pattern here…](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/meet-tiny-tina-crochet-flower-pattern-for-your-sneaker-makeover/ "Meet Tiny Tina, Crochet Flower Pattern for your Sneaker makeover") [You can find the Poppy Free Crochet Flower Pattern here…](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/new-crochet-flower-pattern-for-your-sneaker-makeover-poppy/ "How to make Crochet Flower emblisments for ‘Converse Style’ sneakers – Vi") ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/066546b2ab152951e53046e0634284d4bd3766d38e38270c664a7d8b09f40cd9?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Jane Designer behind Jane Burns Knitting and Crochet Patterns [See Full Bio](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/author/admin/) [ ](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/author/admin/) **Categories:** Free Crochet Patterns **Tags:** crochet flower, crochet pattern, free crochet pattern --- ### [New Crochet Flower Pattern for your Sneaker Makeover - Poppy](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/new-crochet-flower-pattern-for-your-sneaker-makeover-poppy/) **Published:** November 19, 2025 **Author:** Jane **Content:** The final pattern in the Crochet Flower Pattern to embellish your ‘Converse Style’ sneakers (or trainers as we call them in the UK). Meet Poppy. ![converse-style-crochet-flower-tutorial jane burns](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/converse-style-crochet-flower-tutorial-2.jpg "Converse style crochet flower tutorial Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")![converse-style-crochet-flower-tutorial jane burns poppy crochet flower pattern](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/converse-style-crochet-flower-tutorial-poppy-finished-fw.jpg "Converse style crochet flower tutorial poppy finished fw Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")### ***To make Poppy, y**ou will need:*** 3mm crochet hook, 4ply cotton yarn and two 2.5cm buttons, sewing needle and thread. ***Finished measurement:** 5.5cm diameter* ***The pattern is written in UK crochet terms*** #### **Start hookin’ your Poppy Crochet Flower Pattern here….** Using 3mm hook and 4ply yarn, Ch10, join into a ring with a sl st into first ch. Round 1: Ch1, 15dc into ring, close with a sl st to beg ch1 Round 2: Ch4, \*1tr into next dc, ch1; rep from \* 15 times, sl st into fourth ch of beg ch4 Round 3: Ch1, \*1dc into ch1 space, 1dc into top of tr; rep from \* 15 times, ch1, sl st into top of beg ch1. Fasten off, darn in ends and block if desired. Simply pop over the button to secure onto the shoe. ![converse-style-crochet-flower-tutorial poppy.fw jane burns](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/converse-style-crochet-flower-tutorial-poppy-fw.jpg "Converse style crochet flower tutorial poppy fw Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")[Violet Crochet Flower Pattern can be found here…](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/violet-crochet-flower-pattern-for-sneakers/ "Violet – Crochet Flower Pattern for Sneakers") [Tiny Tina Crochet Flower Pattern can be found here…](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/meet-tiny-tina-crochet-flower-pattern-for-your-sneaker-makeover/ "Meet Tiny Tina, Crochet Flower Pattern for your Sneaker makeover") [Viola Crochet Flower Pattern can be found here…](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/viola-free-crochet-flower-pattern-to-bling-your-trainers/ "Viola, Free Crochet Flower Pattern to Bling your Trainers") ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/066546b2ab152951e53046e0634284d4bd3766d38e38270c664a7d8b09f40cd9?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Jane Designer behind Jane Burns Knitting and Crochet Patterns [See Full Bio](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/author/admin/) [ ](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/author/admin/) **Categories:** Free Crochet Patterns **Tags:** crochet pattern, free crochet pattern --- ### [Violet - Crochet Flower Pattern for Sneakers](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/violet-crochet-flower-pattern-for-sneakers/) **Published:** November 19, 2025 **Author:** Jane **Content:** Continuing my collection of Crochet Flower Patterns to embellish your sneakers meet Violet. Named after my wonderful Nan, my woolly inspiration, my how to be ‘the nicest person’ you can be role model, and bestest person ever! I miss her.. ![](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/converse-style-crochet-flower-tutorial-violet-fw-1.jpg "Converse style crochet flower tutorial violet fw Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")![converse-style-crochet-flower-pattern violet finished.fw jane burns](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/converse-style-crochet-flower-tutorial-violet-finished-fw.jpg "Converse style crochet flower tutorial violet finished fw Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")### ***To make Violet Crochet Flower Pattern, you will need:*** 3mm crochet hook, 4ply cotton yarn and two 2.5cm buttons, sewing needle and thread. ***Finished measurement:** 8cm diameter* **The pattern is written in UK crochet terms** ##### **Start hookin’ here….** Using 3mm hook and 4ply yarn, Ch12, join into a ring with a sl st into first ch Round 1: Ch3, 23tr into ring, close with a sl st into top of beg ch3. Round 2: Ch5, (counts as 1tr, 2ch) 1tr into next tr, ch1, (skip next 2tr, 1tr, ch2, 1tr, ch1 into next tr) seven times in total, close with a sl st into third ch of beg ch5. Round 3: Ch3, 1tr, ch2, 2tr into the ch-2 space below, 1dc into ch-1 space below. (2tr, ch2, 2tr, ch1 into next ch-2 space below, 1dc into 1ch space below) repeat seven times in total, close with a sl st into third chain of beg ch3. Fasten off, darn in ends and block if desired. Simply pop over the button to secure onto the shoe. ![converse-style-crochet-flower-tutorial jane burns](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/converse-style-crochet-flower-tutorial.jpg "Converse style crochet flower tutorial Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")[Tiny Tina Crochet Flower Pattern can be found here…](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/meet-tiny-tina-crochet-flower-pattern-for-your-sneaker-makeover/ "Meet Tiny Tina, Crochet Flower Pattern for your Sneaker makeover") [Poppy Crochet Flower Pattern can be found here…](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/new-crochet-flower-pattern-for-your-sneaker-makeover-poppy/ "New Crochet Flower Pattern for your Sneaker Makeover – Poppy") [Viola Crochet Flower Pattern can be found here…](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/viola-free-crochet-flower-pattern-to-bling-your-trainers/ "Viola, Free Crochet Flower Pattern to Bling your Trainers") ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/066546b2ab152951e53046e0634284d4bd3766d38e38270c664a7d8b09f40cd9?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Jane Designer behind Jane Burns Knitting and Crochet Patterns [See Full Bio](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/author/admin/) [ ](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/author/admin/) **Categories:** Free Crochet Patterns **Tags:** crochet pattern, free crochet pattern --- ### [Free Beatles Abbey Road Cushion Knitting Pattern, Knit Your Own Piece of Music History](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/free-beatles-abbey-road-cushion-knitting-pattern-knit-your-own-piece-of-music-history/) **Published:** March 6, 2026 **Author:** Jane **Content:** ###### **Because hanging a poster is so last decade.** ![Two knitted cushion covers on a white sofa — Abbey Road NW8 street sign cushion in black, white and red, alongside a black and white striped zebra crossing cushion, knitting pattern by Jane Burns](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/FI-Abbey-road-cushion-knitting-pattern-jane-burns-1024x576.png "Fi Abbey Road Cushion Knitting Pattern Jane Burns Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")If you’ve ever stood outside Abbey Road Studios on a grey London morning, craning your neck to get a photo of that zebra crossing without being flattened by a taxi, then this one’s for you. And honestly, even if you haven’t, you’re going to want these cushions. This Free Beatles Abbey Road Cushion Knitting Pattern is for you! I’m absolutely thrilled to share two new **free knitted cushion cover patterns** inspired by one of the most iconic landmarks in music history: **Abbey Road**. Made famous by The Beatles’ eleventh studio album, the studios and that gloriously simple zebra crossing have become genuine icons of popular culture. Now you can make your very own woolly tribute, no trip to NW8 required. ## What Are We Making? Two cushion cover knitting patterns, both steeped in Beatles nostalgia: ### **1. The Abbey Road Street Sign Cushion** A bold, graphic cushion featuring the iconic Abbey Road street sign lettering. The lettering is worked using **Swiss darning (also known as duplicate stitch)**, a brilliant embroidery technique where you essentially trace over existing stitches with a new colour. It’s dead easy, looks incredibly effective, and means your knitting stays beautifully neat and manageable. If you’d prefer to work the lettering live as you go, I’ve also included notes for working it using the **intarsia method** (just make sure you have plenty of small bobbins and a good supply of patience when it comes to untangling). ### 2. The Zebra Crossing Cushion Clean, classic, and wonderfully graphic, a black and white striped cushion that captures the look of that famous pedestrian crossing. It’s bold, it’s striking, and it’ll look absolutely mint on your sofa. Both cushions together make the most fabulous pair, and would make a cracking gift for the Beatles fan in your life. Or yourself. Definitely yourself! [![Free Beatles Abbey Road Cushion Knitting Pattern, Two knitted cushion covers on a white sofa — Abbey Road NW8 street sign cushion in black, white and red, alongside a black and white striped zebra crossing cushion, knitting pattern by Jane Burns](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/IP-Abbey-road-cushion-knitting-pattern2.png "Ip Abbey Road Cushion Knitting Pattern2 Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")](https://shop.janeburns.co.uk/products/abbey-road-zebra-crossing-cushion-knitting-pattern-pdf-download-english-language-only)*Two knitted cushion covers on a white sofa Abbey Road NW8 street sign cushion in black white and red alongside a black and white striped zebra crossing cushion knitting pattern by Jane Burns*## The Details for Free Beatles Abbey Road Cushion Knitting Pattern These patterns use **DK weight yarn**, and I’ve included two yarn suggestions to suit different budgets and preferences: ##### [Stylecraft Special DK (100% Acrylic, 295m / 100g ball)](https://tidd.ly/4d4yCgj) A brilliant, budget-friendly option that’s widely available and comes in a gorgeous range of shades. [You can buy it here ](https://tidd.ly/4d4yCgj) **Abbey Road Cushion:** - Yarn A – Shade 1002 Black, 2 balls - Yarn B – Shade 1001 White, 2 balls - Yarn C – Shade 1246 Lipstick, 1 ball **Zebra Crossing Cushion:** - Yarn A – Shade 1002 Black, 2 balls - Yarn B – Shade 1001 White, 2 balls ##### [Knit Picks – Swish DK \*(100% Fine Superwash Merino Wool, 113m / 50g ball)](https://tidd.ly/4srWI9l) A lovely squashy merino option for those who want a more luxurious finish. [Buy the yarn here..](https://tidd.ly/4srWI9l) **Abbey Road Cushion:** - Yarn A – Black, 4 balls - Yarn B – White, 3 balls - Yarn C – Serrano, 1 ball **Zebra Crossing Cushion:** - Yarn A – Black, 4 balls - Yarn B – White, 3 balls ## Swiss Darning vs. Intarsia. Which Should You Use? Great question! Quick breakdown (description and not me): **Swiss Darning (Duplicate Stitch)** is my recommended method for the lettering on the Abbey Road cushion. You knit the whole piece in one colour first, then go back and embroider the letters on top by tracing the ‘V’ shape of each stitch. It keeps your knitting simple, your floats non-existent, and your sanity largely intact. If you’ve never tried it before, you’re in for a treat, it’s one of those techniques that looks far more impressive than the effort involved. **Intarsia** is the alternative method, where you work the colour changes as you knit. You’ll need small bobbins of each colour, and the golden rule is to **always twist your yarns together when you change colour.** This prevents holes from forming in your work. It’s a bit more involved but gives a lovely clean result on both sides of the fabric. ## What’s Included in Free Beatles Abbey Road Cushion Knitting Pattern? The **free version** of this pattern (the one you’re reading right now!) includes full instructions to get you started on both cushion covers. Want even more? The[ **premium paid pattern**](https://shop.janeburns.co.uk/products/abbey-road-zebra-crossing-cushion-knitting-pattern-pdf-download-english-language-only) includes: ✦ A **high resolution chart** crystal clear, no squinting required ✦ A **two-page chart** because the chart is large, I’ve split it across two pages to make it genuinely easy to read (your eyes will thank you) ✦ **Full written line-by-line instructions** just for those of you who, quite sensibly, refuse to look at a chart on principle. No judgement here whatsoever. ### [Get the premium pattern here →](https://shop.janeburns.co.uk/products/abbey-road-zebra-crossing-cushion-knitting-pattern-pdf-download-english-language-only) ## A Little Bit About Abbey Road Abbey Road Studios and the zebra crossing outside were made famous by The Beatles’ 1969 album, you know the one. The photograph of John, Ringo, Paul, and George striding across that crossing has become one of the most reproduced and parodied images in history. The studios themselves, which opened in 1931, remain one of the most celebrated recording spaces in the world. It felt only right to celebrate it in yarn. ![Abbey Road Street sign with knitting chart embeded to promote jane burns abbey road and zebra crossing cushions knitting patterns](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/abbey-road-knitting-pattern-blog-post-jane-burns.png "Abbey Road Knitting Pattern Blog Post Jane Burns Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")## Ready to Cast On Your Free Beatles Abbey Road Cushion Knitting Pattern? Whether you’re a lifelong Beatles devotee or simply someone who appreciates a cracking graphic cushion (valid!), I hope you enjoyed making the free Beatles Abbey Road Cushion Knitting Pattern. I’d absolutely love to see your finished makes, please do tag me on Instagram so I can have a proper nosey. Use the hashtag #janeburnsdesigns Happy knitting! 🎶 ##### Needles: - 4mm straight needles ##### Also Needed: - [Cushion Pad 40 cm x 60 cm](https://amzn.to/4usXMf8) [(buy here)](https://amzn.to/4usXMf8) - Zip black, plastic 40 cm - Large tapestry needle - Stitch markers *This post contains affiliate links, these do not cost you any money but do help me bring you more content just like this Free Beatles Abbey Road Cushion Knitting Pattern. Thank you for your understanding* ##### Tension: 22 sts x 30 rows = 10 cm x 10 cm when working stocking stitch **Start here** ## **ABBEY ROAD CUSHION** ### BACK Cast on 132 sts using Yarn A and 4mm needles. Work 130 Rows in st st. Cast off. ### **FRONT (Swiss Darned Version)** **Note:** Letter following each instruction denotes which yarn to use. Cast on 132 sts using Yarn A and 4mm needles. **Row 1 (RS):** Knit. **Row 2 (WS):** Purl **Rows 3-4:** Repeat last 2 rows. **Row 5:** K3A, K126B, K3A. **Row 6:** P3A, P126B, P3A. **Rows 7-12:** Repeat last 2 rows. **Row 13:** Using Yarn A Knit. **Row 14:** Using Yarn A Purl. **Rows 15-32:** Repeat rows 5 & 6. **Row 33:** K3A, K10B, pm, K106B, pm, K10B, K3A (markers show starting point for Swiss darning motif) ![Free Beatles Abbey Road Cushion Knitting Pattern Two knitted cushion covers on a white sofa — Abbey Road NW8 street sign cushion in black, white and red, alongside a black and white striped zebra crossing cushion, knitting pattern by Jane Burns](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Abbey-road-cushion-knitting-patterns-pin2-683x1024.png "Abbey Road Cushion Knitting Patterns Pin2 Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")**Row 34:** Rep row 6. **Rows 35-110:** Rep rows 5 & 6. **Row 111:** K3A, K10B, pm, K106B, pm, K10B, K3A (markers show finishing point for Swiss darned motif) **Row 112:** Repeat Row 6. **Rows 113-136:** Rep rows 5 & 6. **Rows 137-140:** Beg with a knit row, work 4 rows in st st using Yarn A. Cast off. ### **TO MAKE UP** Swiss darn motif onto front panel of cushion using markers to position motif. Sew in ends. Use mattress stitch to sew long top edge, then down both side edges. Open zip and pin in place along bottom edge, position zip as closely as possible to edge of fabric. Using a sharp pointed tapestry needle and yarn A sew in place using small backstitches. Mattress stitch remaining seams together and insert cushion pad. ### **FRONT (Intarsia Version)** **Note:** Letter following instruction denotes which yarn to use. Cast on 132 sts using Yarn A and 4mm needles. **Row 1 (RS):** Knit. **Row 2 (WS):** Purl. **Rows 3-4:** Repeat last 2 rows. **Row 5:** K3A, K126B, K3A. **Row 6:** P3A, P126B, P3A. **Rows 7-12:** Repeat last 2 rows. **Row 13:** Using Yarn A Knit. [![free abbreviations guide for all jane burns knitting patterns](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/image-of-abbreviations-pdf-download-example-jane-burns-211x300.png "Image of Abbreviations Pdf Download Example Jane Burns Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")](https://shop.janeburns.co.uk/search?q=free+knitting+abbreviations+guide)*[FREE abbreviations guide for all Jane Burns knitting patterns](https://shop.janeburns.co.uk/search?q=free+knitting+abbreviations+guide)***Row 14:** Using Yarn A Purl. **Rows 15-32:** Repeat rows 5 & 6. *Commence working from Chart as follows:* **Row 33:** K3A, K10B, pm, work row 1 from Chart, pm, K10B, K3A (markers show Chart placement) **Row 34:** P3A, P10B, sm, work row 2 from Chart, sm, P10B, P3A. **Rows 35-110:** Work as set from Chart maintaining the colour block sections either side of the markers. **Row 111:** K3A, K126B, K3A. **Row 112:** Repeat Row 6. **Rows 113-136:** Rep rows 5 & 6. **Rows 137-140:** Beg with a knit row, work 4 rows in st st using Yarn A. Cast off. ## **ZEBRA CROSSING CUSHION** ### **BACK** Cast on 92 sts using 4mm needles and Yarn A. **Row 1 (RS):** Knit. **Row 2 (WS):** Purl. **Rows 3-188:** Beg with a knit row, work in st st as set. Cast off. ## **FRONT** Cast on 92 sts using 4mm needles and Yarn A. **Rows 1-24:** Beg with a knit row, work in st st. **Row 25:** K6A, K80B, K6A. **Row 26:** P6A, P80B, P6A. **Rows 27-44:** Rep rows 25 & 26. **Rows 45-64:** Using Yarn A work in st st as set. **Rows 65-84:** Rep rows 25 & 26. ![Free Beatles Abbey Road Cushion Knitting Pattern Two knitted cushion covers on a white sofa — Abbey Road NW8 street sign cushion in black, white and red, alongside a black and white striped zebra crossing cushion, knitting pattern by Jane Burns](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/IP-Abbey-road-cushion-knitting-pattern3.png "Ip Abbey Road Cushion Knitting Pattern3 Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")**Rows 85-104:** Using Yarn A work in st st as set. **Rows 105-124:** Rep rows 25 & 26. **Rows 125-144:** Using Yarn A work in st st as set. **Rows 145-164:** Rep rows 25 & 26. **Rows 165-188:** Using Yarn A work in st st as set. Cast off. ## Looking for a larger chart? You can find a high resolution two page chart included in the [Premium Pattern here ](https://shop.janeburns.co.uk/products/abbey-road-zebra-crossing-cushion-knitting-pattern-pdf-download-english-language-only) ![Abbey Road Knitting Pattern Chart by Jane Burns](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Abbey-Road-Knitting-Chart-Jane-Burns-1024x556.png "Abbey Road Knitting Chart Jane Burns Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")### **TO MAKE UP** Make up as for Abbey Road Cushion omitting Swiss darning. © Jane Burns 2026. This pattern is for personal use only. Please do not reproduce or sell this pattern.\* ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/066546b2ab152951e53046e0634284d4bd3766d38e38270c664a7d8b09f40cd9?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Jane Designer behind Jane Burns Knitting and Crochet Patterns [See Full Bio](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/author/admin/) [ ](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/author/admin/) **Categories:** Free Knitting Patterns, Uncategorized **Tags:** FREE Abbey Road Knitted Cushion Cover Patterns --- ### [Why Knitting for Babies Isn't Just Making Smaller Adult Clothes](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/why-knitting-for-babies-isnt-just-making-smaller-adult-clothes/) **Published:** February 23, 2026 **Author:** Jane **Content:** When I first started designing baby knits, I assumed it would be relatively simple, just scale down what I had learned about designing adult patterns. Pick soft yarn, and add a bit of cuteness. How hard could knitting for babies be? ![Infographic comparing baby and adult body proportions for knitting design. Learn why knitting for babies is so different](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/baby-proportions-knitting-jane-burns-683x1024.png "Baby Proportions Knitting Jane Burns Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")Then I knit a beautiful baby sweater, Soft yarn smooth stocking stitch fabric, everything looked perfect. Except when I tried to get it over a baby’s head, the cast-off edge had absolutely no give. None! In fact, I was in danger to removing the poor little one’s ears. That sweater taught me my first major lesson, babies have enormous heads relative to their neck size, and what works for adult proportions simply doesn’t translate when you scale it down. I think designing for tiny humans has probably made me a better designer overall. The constraints, safety, washability, ease of dressing, forced me to think through every single decision. You can’t just make something beautiful, in the real world of spit-up, daily washing, and parents trying to dress a wriggly baby at 3am, baby garments must work so much harder than adult designs. So, if you’ve ever wondered why baby patterns seem to have different construction methods or unusual details, there’s genuine reasoning behind those choices. ## Proportions That Change Everything [![Baby cardigan compared to adult cardigan showing different proportions and construction methods](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/adult-and-child-knitted-sweater-neck-variations-jane-burns.png "Adult and Child Knitted Sweater Neck Variations Jane Burns Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")](https://shop.janeburns.co.uk/products/unicorn-rainbows-sweater-pattern-kids)*Baby garment compared to adult garment cardigan showing different proportions and construction methods*The first thing you notice when you really look at baby proportions is that head. Babies have heads that are enormous relative to their bodies, roughly a quartre of their total height, compared to about an eighth for adults. Add in a practically lack of neck and rounded shoulders, and you realise why adult construction methods simply don’t work at baby scale. This is why you see so many baby cardigans and jumpers with those clever envelope necklines or wide boat necks. It’s not just a design trend, it’s solving the very real problem of getting knitwear over that disproportionately large head without stretching out the neckline or distressing the baby. Some designers even build their patterns to pull on from the feet up, which sounds odd until you’ve wrestled with a traditional over-the-head design. ![Infographic comparing baby and adult body proportions for knitting design](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/baby-knitting-vs-adult-knitting-proportions.png "Baby knitting vs adult knitting proportions Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")*Infographic comparing baby and adult body proportions for knitting design*### Bellies and Baby Knitting Then there’s that gorgeous round baby belly. Adults have waist shaping and longer torsos, but babies are delightfully squidgy. If you simply grade down an adult pattern, you end up with shaping in all the wrong places, decreases where there should be fullness, length proportions that bunch up or ride up. Baby knits need their own shaping logic, with enough room through the middle and shorter overall lengths that account for how babies sit and move. The short limbs present another challenge, but here’s where thoughtful design can extend the life of your handknit. Those deep cuffs you see on baby sleeves and trouser legs aren’t just decorative, they’re designed to be turned up initially, then gradually unfolded as the baby grows. When you’ve spent hours knitting something precious, you want it to last more than a few weeks. Building in that growing room means designing slightly oversized with adjustable elements, so you keep up with those rapid growth spurts. Sleeve and leg lengths need to account for babies who spend a lot of time with bent knees and arms but also leave room for those limbs to lengthen without the garment becoming immediately unwearable. ## Yarn Choices, Practicality Over Beauty Here’s where baby knitting parts ways most dramatically with adult knitting. Yarn choice, you simply cannot prioritise beauty over practicality. A friend received a stunning baby cardigan knit in the most gorgeous pure merino. It was buttery soft, the colour was exquisite, and after one wash it had shrunk to fit a doll. The knitter had chosen with their heart, selecting the most luxurious yarn, but hadn’t considered that this cardigan would need to survive multiple washes per week. Because babies are messy creatures, and handwashing a cardigan every few days simply isn’t realistic for exhausted parents. ### Why Machine Washable Yarn is Essential for Baby Knitting Machine washable isn’t just a nice-to-have for baby knits, it’s essential. Superwash treatments, acrylic blends, cotton blends, these aren’t compromise choices, they’re the right choices. The yarn needs to come out of a 40-degree wash looking like new without needing any special care or reshaping. Cotton-acrylic blends are particularly brilliant for baby knits. You get the breathability and natural feel of cotton combined with the durability and easy-care properties of acrylic. These blends wash beautifully, hold their shape, and often have just the right amount of softness without being overly drapey. They’re practical workhorses that parents will use. [![Machine washable yarn options for knitting for babies including cotton acrylic blends](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/machine-washable-yarn-baby-knitting.png "Machine washable yarn baby knitting Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")](https://tidd.ly/3LyyYjS)*Machine washable yarn options for baby knitting including cotton acrylic blends*### Testing Yarn Softness for Baby Skin What really feels soft against baby skin? What feels lovely to our adult hands might be surprisingly scratchy against delicate skin. I’ve learned to test yarn against my inner wrist or my neck rather than trusting my fingertips. Babies can’t tell you a jumper is irritating them, they just fuss and pull at it, and parents understandably stop using handknits that make their baby uncomfortable. ## Construction Methods If you’ve looked at baby knitting patterns, you’ve probably noticed how many are worked seamless or top-down. This isn’t just following knitting trends, it’s about creating garments that are genuinely comfortable for babies to wear. ### Seamless vs Seamed, Why It Matters Seams can be surprisingly problematic on baby knitwear. Babies spend enormous amounts of time lying on their backs, and a bulky seam running down the back of a garment becomes an uncomfortable ridge pressing into delicate skin. Mattress stitch creates a lovely finish for adult garments, but for babies, seamless construction or very flat seams make much more sense. [![Seamless baby cardigan construction when knitting for babies](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/seamless-baby-knitting-jane-burns-683x1024.png "Seamless Baby Knitting Jane Burns Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")](https://shop.janeburns.co.uk/products/dachshund-in-the-snow-cardigan)*Seamless baby cardigan construction* Dachshund in the Snow by Jane Burns### Neckline Solutions for Easy Dressing Then there’s the matter of getting clothes onto babies. Those envelope necklines I mentioned earlier. They’re genius not just for the oversized head issue, but because they create openings that parents can navigate whilst supporting a floppy newborn head. Wide necklines, snaps at the shoulder, or garments that don’t need to go over the head at all, these aren’t design flourishes, they’re practical necessities that make the difference between a handknit that gets worn and one that stays in the drawer because dressing becomes a battle. ![Envelope neckline on baby cardigan designed to fit over large baby head, design choices when knitting for babies](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/envelope-neckline-baby-knitting-jane-burns-683x1024.png "Envelope Neckline Baby Knitting Jane Burns Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")*Save for Later with Pinterest*### Button and Fastener Safety Button and fastener placement requires careful thought too. Buttons need to be extremely secure, double-sewn, and checked regularly because babies explore the world by putting everything in their mouths. I tend to use smaller buttons placed closer together rather than larger statement buttons, and I always consider whether snaps might be safer and easier for the parents to manage. The fasteners need to be positioned where they won’t dig into the baby when they’re lying down or being carried. ## Stitch Patterns and Tiny Fingers This might surprise you, those beautiful lacy patterns and textured stitches that look so stunning in adult knits can become genuine hazards in baby sizes. ### The Danger of Knitted Lace Patterns for Babies Tiny fingers are surprisingly good at finding their way into openings they shouldn’t. A delicate lace pattern with yarn overs might photograph beautifully, but in practice, those little holes become perfect traps for curious fingers and toes. I’ve heard stories of babies getting fingers stuck in eyelet patterns, and once you’ve considered that possibility, you start viewing stitch pattern choices through an entirely different lens. ### Safe Textured Alternatives This doesn’t mean baby knits have to be just stockinette. Textured patterns work brilliantly, think moss stitch, gentle cables, garter stitch. They create visual interest without creating snag points. These patterns also tend to have better stretch and recovery, which matters when garments are being pulled on and off multiple times a day. If you do want to incorporate lace or more open patterns, consider where they’re placed. A lacy yoke on a cardigan is less problematic than lace on sleeves where little hands are constantly moving. Borders and edgings with small eyelets can work if the holes are genuinely tiny, but those larger decorative openings that look so elegant in shawls? Save them for adult knitting. The other consideration with stitch patterns is how they behave after washing. Complex textures that rely on blocking to show their definition might look muddled after being tumble dried, which brings us back to, beauty has to serve practicality in baby knitting, not the other way around. ## Yarn Weight, Matching Purpose to Practicality There’s genuinely no single “best” option when it comes to yarn weight for baby knits, each weight brings its own advantages and compromises. ### DK and Light Worsted, The Popular Choice for Baby Knitting DK and light worsted weight yarns are probably the most popular for baby knits, and for good reason. They work up reasonably quickly (important when you’re knitting something that might only fit for a few months), create fabric with good structure that holds its shape through washing, and hit that sweet spot between warmth and breathability. [![Scheepjes Stone Washed yarn 78% Cotton 22% Acrylic perfect when knitting for babies](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/scheepjes-stone-washed-jane-burns.png "Scheepjes Stone Washed Jane Burns Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")](https://tidd.ly/3LyyYjS)Scheepjes Stone Washed yarn 78 Cotton 22 Acrylic perfect baby garment yarn### 4ply and Fingering Weight, Delicate but Time Consuming 4ply and fingering weights create those delicate, precious looking baby garments that look great on Instagram. The fabric drapes softly and feels wonderfully light. But they take significantly longer to knit, and that fine fabric can be less durable when it’s being washed multiple times a week and subjected to the general rough treatment that baby clothes endure. Keep those finer weight yarns for special occasion pieces or christening gowns rather than everyday wear. [![Anchor Pure Baby Cotton is a great natural fibre choice for Baby projects](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/anchor-pure-baby-cotton-4ply-1.png "Anchor Pure Baby Cotton 4ply Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")](https://tidd.ly/4raDXq9)Anchor Pure Baby Cotton is a great natural fibre choice for Baby projects[![King Cole, Merino Blend 4ply yarn is 100% superwash merino, great natural choice when knitting for babies](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/king-cole-merino-blend-4ply-yarn-jane-burns.png "King Cole Merino Blend 4ply Yarn Jane Burns Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")](https://tidd.ly/4tPpQJh)King Cole Merino Blend 4ply yarn is 100 superwash merino [httpstiddly4tPpQJh](https://tidd.ly/4tPpQJh)### Chunky and Bulky Weights, Too Warm for Babies Chunky and bulky weights knit up quickly, which is tempting when you want to finish a gift before the baby arrives. They create wonderfully cosy garments for cold weather. However, the thick fabric can be too warm for indoors, less practical for layering, and the larger stitches mean those snag-point concerns I mentioned earlier become even more relevant. Chunky knits also tend to be stiffer and less comfortable for babies who spend time lying down or being carried in slings. ### Aran Weight, The Middle Ground Aran weight yarn sits in an interesting middle ground, substantial enough to feel sturdy and warm, fine enough to create comfortable fabric that isn’t too bulky. It works particularly well for outerwear like pram coats or cardigans meant for outdoor adventures. The key is matching your yarn weight to the garment’s purpose. Everyday cardigans and rompers benefit from DK’s practicality. Special occasion outfits can justify the time investment of 4ply. Outdoor winter wear might call for Aran. Each choice shapes not just how long the knitting takes, but how the finished garment functions in a baby’s life. [![Yarnsmiths Pebble Haze Aran weight yarn perfect for baby and child garments 61% Cotton 39% Acrylic, knitting for babies approved](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/yarnsmiths-pebble-haze-aran-cotton-blend-yarn.png "Yarnsmiths Pebble Haze Aran Cotton Blend Yarn Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")](https://tidd.ly/4kQJv7l)Yarnsmiths Pebble Haze Aran weight yarn perfect for baby and child garments 61 Cotton 39 Acrylic## Safety, Durability, Then Beauty This is where designing for babies requires a complete mental shift from designing for adults. With adult knitting, we can often lead with aesthetics, that stunning colourwork, fabulous drape, intricate stitch pattern, then we consider practicality as a secondary concern. With babies, that hierarchy flips entirely. ### When Knitting for Babies Always Safety First Safety comes first, always. Every design decision gets filtered through this lens. Are the buttons secure enough that they won’t come loose? Could a baby’s finger get trapped in this stitch pattern? Is this yarn going to pill into little fibres that could be pulled off and put in a mouth? Will this ribbon tie stay attached or could it become a hazard? These aren’t dramatic concerns, they’re the everyday realities of designing for humans who explore their world by grabbing, pulling, and tasting everything within reach. ### Durability That Lasts Durability sits just behind safety. A beautiful handknit that falls apart after three washes or pills into oblivion after a month isn’t the perfect gift, it’s a disappointment. This is why I test my baby designs with proper washing, the kind of washing they’ll face. The kind of washing I am sure you did with your knitted swatch when choosing your yarn, you did swatch??? Hot water, regular detergent, sometimes even the tumble dryer. If the design can’t survive real world treatment, it needs rethinking, no matter how lovely it looks fresh off the needles. ### Beauty Through Function When Knitting for Babies Then, and only then, comes beauty. Which sounds harsh until you realise that working within these constraints makes you more creative, not less. You learn to create visual interest through thoughtful construction rather than delicate details. You discover that a well-proportioned silhouette and carefully chosen colour can be more striking than elaborate stitch patterns. You find beauty in functionality in the way an envelope neckline solves a problem whilst creating an interesting design line, or how deep ribbed cuffs serve both practical and aesthetic purposes. For adult knitting, we can choose yarns that need handwashing, create designs with trailing ties and delicate fastenings, incorporate intricate lace that needs careful blocking. We’re knitting for people who can appreciate and care for special pieces. With babies, we’re creating garments that need to work in the chaos of daily life whilst still bringing joy. That’s a different kind of design challenge entirely. ## Care Needs, The Reality of Daily Washing Let’s be brutally honest about what baby knitwear faces, daily washing is not an exaggeration. Between spit-up, nappy leaks, food experiments, and the general stickiness that babies seem to generate, a garment might need washing after a single wear. Sometimes after a single hour of wear. This is why those care instructions matter so much more for baby knits than adult knits. An adult jumper that needs handwashing and flat drying might get worn a dozen times before it sees soap and water. A baby cardigan needs to survive multiple washes per week, often for months on end if you’ve built in that growing room I mentioned earlier. ### Designing for Machine Washing I design with the assumption that parents will bung it in the washing machine at 40 degrees with everything else. Not because they don’t care about the handknit, but because they’re managing approximately seventeen hundred loads of washing per week. Special care instructions essentially guarantee the garment won’t get worn, because it becomes one more thing to remember and manage. ### Colourfastness Matters This is also why colourfastness matters more than it might for adult knits. Baby clothes often get washed with everything else, muslins, bibs, sleepsuits all tumbled together. If your beautiful red cardigan bleeds onto the white sleepsuits, that handknit is going to develop a reputation! I always test yarn for colourfastness before committing to a baby design, particularly with bright or dark colours. ### Maintaining Shape Through Washing The fabric needs to come out of the wash looking essentially the same as it went in (minus the sticky stuff). No dramatic shrinkage, no stretching out of shape, no pilling that makes it look tatty after a fortnight. Some parents will tumble dry, even if your pattern says not to, so if you’re gifting a design, it’s worth choosing yarns that can tolerate that treatment. This is about creating knits that can actually be loved and used rather than carefully preserved and barely worn. ### Adding Care Instructions to Your Gifts Here’s a lovely touch when gifting baby knits, include the yarn ball band with your gift. Those little labels contain all the care instructions the parents will need, and it takes the guesswork out of washing. If you’ve thrown the ball band away, create a simple care tag with the essential information such as fibre content, washing temperature, whether it can be tumble dried. I’m have created a free printable care label sheet that knitters (and crocheters) can download and attach to their handmade gifts. [You can download it here](https://shop.janeburns.co.uk/products/free-printable-care-labels-for-knit-and-crochet-gifts) (just add to the cart and check out there will be no charge) [![Free A4 download for printable care instruction labels for knit and crochet handmade gifts](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/care-labels-for-knitting-projects-jane-burns-724x1024.png "Care Labels for Knitting Projects Jane Burns Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")](https://shop.janeburns.co.uk/products/free-printable-care-labels-for-knit-and-crochet-gifts)Free Printable Care Labels for GiftsDownload here ## *Learning From Constraints When Knitting for Babies* When I look back at that first baby sweater with its impossible neckline, I’m grateful for the lesson it taught me. Designing for babies has fundamentally changed how I approach all my pattern design work. The discipline of thinking through every choice and asking, “but will this actually work in real life?” has made me more thoughtful about construction methods, more deliberate about yarn recommendations, more aware of how garments function beyond how they photograph. These constraints don’t limit creativity, they focus it. They push you to find elegant solutions to practical problems, to create beauty that serves a purpose. Every design choice in a baby knit needs to earn its place by being safe, durable, and genuinely wearable. That’s a higher bar than simply making something attractive. If you’re thinking about designing or knitting for babies, embrace those constraints rather than fighting them. Choose machine washable yarns without apology. Build in envelope necklines and deep cuffs. Test your stitch patterns for snag points. Design for the chaos of real baby life, not for the Instagram photo. The parents who receive your knits will use them, wash them repeatedly, and remember them fondly as garments that survived those precious, exhausting early months. ## Frequently Asked Questions: ### *Can I use any yarn for baby knitting?* No, baby knitting requires machine washable, hypoallergenic yarns that can survive frequent washing. Avoid yarns that need handwashing or special care. Cotton-acrylic blends, superwash wool, and quality acrylics work brilliantly for baby knits. Always test yarn against your inner wrist or cheek to check softness, as what feels soft to your hands might be scratchy against delicate baby skin. Some babies react to wool even if it’s soft merino, so having non-wool options is important. ### *Why won’t my adult knitting pattern work for a baby if I just make it smaller?* Baby proportions are fundamentally different from adults. Babies have heads that are roughly a quarter of their total height (compared to an eighth for adults), practically no neck, round bellies, and short limbs. Simply scaling down an adult pattern creates shaping in the wrong places and necklines that won’t fit over that enormous baby head. Baby knits need their own construction logic, including envelope necklines, appropriate body shaping, and shorter overall lengths. ### *What’s the best yarn weight for baby knitting?* DK and light worsted weights are the most popular and practical choices for everyday baby knits. They work up reasonably quickly, create good structure that holds through washing, and offer the right balance of warmth and breathability. 4ply works beautifully for special occasion pieces but takes longer to knit and creates less durable fabric for daily wear. Chunky weights can be too warm and stiff for baby comfort. Match your yarn weight to the garment’s purpose: DK for everyday cardigans, 4ply for christening gowns, aran for outdoor winter wear. ### *How do I add growing room to baby knits?* Design slightly oversized with deep cuffs on sleeves and trouser legs that can be turned up initially, then gradually unfolded as the baby grows. This extends the wearable life of your handknit from a few weeks to several months. Build in approximately 10-15% extra ease in the body, use adjustable fasteners, and consider longer body lengths that can accommodate growth spurts. Remember that babies grow rapidly, so planning for this from the start means your beautiful handknit will actually be worn and loved. ### *What makes a button safe for baby knitting?* Buttons on baby knits must be extremely secure! Double-sewn and checked regularly because babies explore everything with their mouths. Use smaller buttons placed closer together rather than large statement buttons. Consider whether snaps might be safer and easier for parents to manage. Position fasteners where they won’t dig into the baby when lying down or being carried. Always prioritise security over aesthetics, and if you’re unsure, snaps are generally the safer choice. What surprised you most when you started knitting for babies? Or what do you wish someone had told you before you began? I’d love to hear your experiences in the comments below. ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/066546b2ab152951e53046e0634284d4bd3766d38e38270c664a7d8b09f40cd9?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Jane Designer behind Jane Burns Knitting and Crochet Patterns [See Full Bio](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/author/admin/) [ ](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/author/admin/) **Categories:** Knitting Tips, Tutorials, Uncategorized **Tags:** technique --- ### [Key to My Heart Keyring Pattern - Free Knitting Pattern](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/key-to-my-heart-keyring-pattern-free-knitting-pattern/) **Published:** February 11, 2026 **Author:** Jane **Content:** You know those moments when you suddenly realise Valentine’s Day (or a birthday, or anniversary) is tomorrow and you haven’t got a thing sorted? I’ve been there more times than I care to admit! That’s exactly why I designed this sweet little heart keyring pattern. ![key to my heart keyring knitting pattern, green knitted and stuffed heart attached to a keyring jane burns pinterest pin](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/free-heart-keyring-knitting-pattern-jane-burns10-683x1024.png "Free Heart Keyring Knitting Pattern Jane Burns10 Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")## Reasons to love the free knitted heart keyring pattern… A great little stash-buster projects that uses just 10g of DK yarn, a few scraps of toy stuffing, and about an hour of your time. I love how quickly these little hearts come together, and they make such thoughtful gifts. There’s something rather special about slipping a handmade heart onto someone’s keyring as a surprise, isn’t there? The pattern itself is very versatile. Whilst it’s written for DK weight yarn on 3.25mm needles, you can absolutely use whatever yarn you fancy. Got some chunky yarn knocking about? Make a big, bold heart. Found a tiny bit of 4ply? Create a delicate little version. Fluffy, smooth, sparkly, I would love to see them. [![key to my heart keyring knitting pattern, green knitted and stuffed heart attached to a keyring jane burns](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/IP-key-to-my-heart-keyring-knitting-pattern-jane-burns3.png "Ip Key to My Heart Keyring Knitting Pattern Jane Burns3 Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")](https://shop.janeburns.co.uk/products/key-to-my-heart-keyring-heart-keychain-knitting-pattern-pdf)Why not add a personal touch with some simple embroidery? Stitch your sweetheart’s initials on the front, or both your initials with a little plus sign. It takes all of five minutes but makes it feel so much more special. The pattern is available here free on the blog, you can also find a premium [paid for version](https://shop.janeburns.co.uk/products/key-to-my-heart-keyring-heart-keychain-knitting-pattern-pdf) you can download without any pesky adverts, (I know sometimes you just want to download your pattern and get going without the need to scroll). [![heart keyring knitting pattern front cover of premium pattern version jane burns](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/KEY-TO-MY-HEART-PATTERN-COVER-IMAGE-724x1024.png "Key to My Heart Pattern Cover Image Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")](https://shop.janeburns.co.uk/products/key-to-my-heart-keyring-heart-keychain-knitting-pattern-pdf)Whether you’re making these for Valentine’s Day, as wedding favours, or just because you spotted the perfect scrap of yarn, I hope you enjoy knitting them as much as I enjoyed designing this little heartfelt pattern! Please share your finished hearts with me. [BUY PREMIUM PATTERN HERE](https://shop.janeburns.co.uk/products/key-to-my-heart-keyring-heart-keychain-knitting-pattern-pdf) [RAVELRY](https://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/key-to-my-heart-keyring) [ETSY](https://janeburnsdesigns.etsy.com/listing/4449004613) #### Difficulty: Confident Beginner, basic shaping #### Finished Measurements: 8 cm wide #### Yarn: Any DK weight yarn (I used Rowan Super Fine Merino DK, shade 146, Zing, approx. 10g) #### Needles: 3.25mm straight #### Also needed: - Toy stuffing - Darning needle - Keyring #### Tension: 24 sts x 34 rows = 10 cm x 10 cm using 3.25mm needles in stocking stitch #### Special Abbreviations: P3tog – purl next three sts together (one stitch remains) *This little heart is great for using up scraps of yarn, and it is a fun gift knit too. Why not slip it onto the keyring of your sweetheart as a cute Valentine’s Day surprise?* [![key to my heart keyring knitting pattern, green knitted and stuffed heart attached to a keyring jane burns](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/IP-key-to-my-heart-keyring-knitting-pattern-jane-burns2.png "Ip Key to My Heart Keyring Knitting Pattern Jane Burns2 Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")](https://shop.janeburns.co.uk/products/key-to-my-heart-keyring-heart-keychain-knitting-pattern-pdf)#### HEART KEYRING (make two pieces) Cast on 2 sts using 3.25mm needles. **Row 1:** Knit. **Row 2:** Purl. **Row 3:** (Kfb) twice. \[Four sts\] **Row 4:** Purl. **Row 5:** K1, m1, knit to last st, m1, k1. \[2 sts increased\] **Rows 6:** Purl. Rep last 2 rows 8 more times. \[22 sts\] **Row 23:** Knit. **Row 24:** Purl. **Row 25:** K1, m1, knit to last st, m1, k1. \[24 sts\] **Row 26:** Purl. **Row 27:** Knit. **Row 28:** Purl. **Row 29:** Knit. **Row 30:** P12, turn and work on these sts only. **Row 31:** K1, ssk, k9. \[11 sts\] **Rows 32, 34, 36:** Purl. **Rows 33, 35, 37:** K1, ssk, knit to last three sts, k2tog, k1. \[Five sts after for 37\] **Row 38:** P1, p3tog, p1. \[Three sts\] **Cast off…… *Continues below*** #### Free Abbreviations PDF Whether you’re tackling your first Jane Burns pattern or you’re a longtime knitter who appreciates having everything in one place, this free resource will help ensure your knitting experience is smooth and enjoyable. Simply download, save to your device, and refer to it whenever you need a quick reminder of what those abbreviations mean! This comprehensive abbreviations guide is your essential companion for working with Jane Burns Designs patterns. Download this free PDF reference containing all the abbreviations used throughout my knitting patterns. Perfect for keeping handy whilst you work, this three-page guide clearly explains each abbreviation with detailed instructions for more complex techniques. [![free abbreviations pdf download from jane burns](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/image-of-abbreviations-pdf-download-example-jane-burns-211x300.png "Image of Abbreviations Pdf Download Example Jane Burns Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")](https://shop.janeburns.co.uk/products/free-knitting-abbreviations-guide-essential-reference-for-all-jane-burns-patterns)[Download FREE PDF Here](https://shop.janeburns.co.uk/products/free-knitting-abbreviations-guide-essential-reference-for-all-jane-burns-patterns) With WS facing, rejoin yarn, purl to end. \[12 sts\] **Row 1:** K9, k2tog, k1. \[11 sts\] **Rows 2, 4, 6:** Purl. **Row 3, 5, 7:** K1, ssk, knit to last three sts, k2tog, k1. \[Five sts after row 7\] **Row 8:** P1, p3tog, p1. \[Three sts\] Cast off. #### To Make Up: Use mattress stitch to sew two hearts together leaving a 2 cm gap. Stuff gently and sew closed. Sew keyring to top centre of heart using image as a guide. Choose carefully who to give your heart to! ### Share your Heart Keyring If you loved this pattern I would love to see your finished make, please tag me on Instagram @jane.burns.designs #janeburnsdesigns. ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/066546b2ab152951e53046e0634284d4bd3766d38e38270c664a7d8b09f40cd9?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Jane Designer behind Jane Burns Knitting and Crochet Patterns [See Full Bio](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/author/admin/) [ ](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/author/admin/) **Categories:** Free Knitting Patterns **Tags:** free knitting pattern, free pattern, knitting pattern --- ### [King Cole Firefly Yarn Review, Mesmerising Metallics & Pattern 6444](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/king-cole-firefly-yarn-review-mesmerising-metallics-pattern-6444/) **Published:** December 10, 2025 **Author:** Jane **Content:** When King Cole kindly sent me some of their new King Cole Firefly yarn to review along with pattern 6444 whilst I was isolating with covid, I must admit it was exactly the sort of project I needed. Something relatively quick, satisfyingly simple, and with enough visual interest to keep my brain occupied without requiring too much concentration when I wasn’t feeling my best. [![jane burns wearing king cole firefly firebug aran sweater review king cole pattern 6444](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/king-cole-firefly-aran-review-jane-burns6-819x1024.png "King Cole Firefly Aran Review Jane Burns6 Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")](https://tidd.ly/48wck4K)I’d been eyeing up this pattern anyway, a raglan style short-sleeved sweater with pretty eyelet detailing around the cuffs, hems and raglan shaping. Having lost some weight this year, I’ve been experimenting with new shapes in my wardrobe and discovered I absolutely love short-sleeved sweaters. There’s something about them that works brilliantly dressed down with jeans and trainers for a bit of retail therapy or dressed up with black trousers and boots for an evening out. They’re that perfect versatile piece that earns its wardrobe space. ### **The Yarn, King Cole Firefly** Review Now, I’ll be honest, choosing which shade of Firefly to use was surprisingly difficult. They’re all gorgeous, with these mesmerising metallic colours that shift and shimmer as you work. I eventually settled on shade 6570 Firebug, and I think it suits me, the warm tones with that metallic sheen catch the light beautifully without being over the top. Firefly is an aran weight yarn (65% polyester, 35% acrylic) that comes in 100g balls with 200m per ball. Being aran weight, this project absolutely flew off the needles, which was brilliant when I needed something achievable during isolation. I got gauge easily using the recommended 5mm needles. The yarn itself is super soft and lightly spun, giving it a lightweight, airy feel that I wasn’t expecting from an aran weight. It wasn’t splitty or squeaky to work with (always a relief), and watching those metallic colours emerge in the stocking stitch fabric was genuinely mesmerising. There’s something quite meditative about watching the colour gradually shift as you work. [![king cole firefly yarn review by jane burns dragonfly shade](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/dragonfly-king-cole-firefly-aran.png "Dragonfly King Cole Firefly Aran Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")](https://tidd.ly/48wck4K)[![king cole firefly yarn review by jane burns firebug shade](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/firebug-king-cole-firefly-aran.png "Firebug King Cole Firefly Aran Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")](https://tidd.ly/48wck4K)[![king cole firefly yarn review by jane burns glow worm shade](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/glow-worm-king-cole-firefly-aran.png "Glow Worm King Cole Firefly Aran Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")](https://tidd.ly/48wck4K)[![king cole firefly yarn review by jane burns harlequin beetle shade](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/harlequin-beetle-king-cole-firefly-aran.png "Harlequin Beetle King Cole Firefly Aran Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")](https://tidd.ly/48wck4K)[![king cole firefly yarn review by jane burns lapwing shade](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/lacewing-king-cole-firefly-aran.png "Lacewing King Cole Firefly Aran Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")](https://tidd.ly/48wck4K)[![king cole firefly yarn review by jane burns mayfly shade](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/mayfly-king-cole-firefly-aran.png "Mayfly King Cole Firefly Aran Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")](https://tidd.ly/48wck4K)[![king cole firefly yarn review by jane burns tiger beetle shade](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/tiger-beetle-king-cole-firefly-aran.png "Tiger Beetle King Cole Firefly Aran Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")](https://tidd.ly/48wck4K)[![king cole firefly yarn review by jane burns violet dropwing shade](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/violet-dropwing-king-cole-firefly.png "Violet Dropwing King Cole Firefly Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")](https://tidd.ly/48wck4K)The finished fabric has a lovely drape. That lightly spun nature means the sweater drapes nicely without feeling heavy or restrictive. I’ve wet blocked the sweater but haven’t put it through a proper wash yet (I’ll be using a short gentle machine wash on cold when I do), so I can’t comment on pilling yet. I’ll update this once I’ve worn and washed it a few more times. [Shop Yarn Here](https://tidd.ly/48wck4K) [ ![](https://www.awin1.com/cshow.php?s=4325289&v=89241&q=564797&r=2042069)](https://www.awin1.com/cread.php?s=4325289&v=89241&q=564797&r=2042069) ### **The Pattern, King Cole 6444** Review [![king cole firefly yarn review by jane burns pattern image](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/firefly-pattern-6444-king-cole.png "Firefly Pattern 6444 King Cole Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")](https://tidd.ly/48wck4K)This is a straightforward raglan construction with those pretty eyelet details worked into the cuffs, hems, and up the raglan shaping itself. It’s a smart design choice, the eyelets provide lovely detail without overwhelming what is, after all, a pretty spectacular yarn. Let the yarn be the star, and they absolutely did! I knitted the sweater version (there’s also a cardigan, which I’m now considering making in the Lacewing colourway) in the largest size, which is designed to fit a 42″ bust. The finished sweater has a 44″ bust circumference, giving it a little positive ease, not too fitted, not too loose. The neck fit is spot on for me as well. I absolutely hate a sweater where the neck feels like it’s choking you, or one that sits so low that when you lean forward you flash everyone. This one gets it just right. ### Disappointing Sizing I do need to mention, though, that the pattern isn’t particularly size inclusive. The largest size being 42″ bust means a significant portion of the knitting community won’t be able to make this for themselves, and I’d really like to see King Cole expand their size ranges across more of their designs. There’s no reason this pattern couldn’t be extended in the size range to open it up to so many more knitters. The pattern writing itself is good, I didn’t find any errors, which is always appreciated. That said, if you’re a newer knitter, be aware that King Cole’s pattern writing style is very concise. You might want to read through it a few times and keep notes on the shaping sections. Whenever I’m working a raglan sweater, I always write out my shaping line by line and cross them off as I work them. It just helps me keep track of where I am without having to constantly re-read the pattern instructions. This is a simple sweater in terms of construction, but that concise style means you need to be comfortable reading patterns and understanding shaping instructions. I’d probably put this at a confident beginner to intermediate level, if you’ve made a few sweaters before and understand how raglan shaping works, you’ll be absolutely fine. ### **Making It for Myself** I don’t often knit for myself, partly because of time, most of my knitting time goes into work. And partly, if I’m honest, because I wasn’t confident in my body and making something for myself felt a little bit ‘showy’. I hope that makes sense? But I’m embracing my new size and shape now, and I’m genuinely enjoying finding new shapes and silhouettes that flatter me. This jumper was a joy to make. Watching that Firebug colours develop, seeing the eyelets add their subtle detail, and knowing I was creating something that would actually suit my style and my life right now, it felt good. Really good. ### **Would I Recommend King Cole Firefly?** Absolutely, with a couple of caveats. If you’re within the size range and you’re after a relatively quick, satisfying knit that’ll give you a versatile wardrobe piece, this is a cracking combination. The Firefly yarn is a pleasure to work with, the pattern is well-written (just be prepared for that concise King Cole style), and the finished garment has turned out exactly as I’d hoped. The yarn would work beautifully in other patterns too, anything where you want that drape and where the colour-shifting metallic effect can be the star. I’m already planning my next Firefly project. If you’re outside that 42″ bust size range, though, you’ll need to look elsewhere or be confident enough to grade the pattern up yourself. That’s disappointing, and I genuinely hope King Cole addresses this across their range. For me, this has been exactly what I needed, a project that reminded me why I love knitting for myself, a pattern that let the yarn shine, and a finished sweater that I know I’ll reach for again and again. Sometimes that’s all you need from a knit, isn’t it? [![king cole firefly yarn review by jane burns, jane by the christmas tree with bertie ](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/king-cole-firefly-aran-review-jane-burns7-819x1024.png "King Cole Firefly Aran Review Jane Burns7 Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")](https://tidd.ly/48wck4K)*Full disclosure: King Cole kindly provided the yarn and pattern for this review, though as always, all opinions are entirely my own.* ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/066546b2ab152951e53046e0634284d4bd3766d38e38270c664a7d8b09f40cd9?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Jane Designer behind Jane Burns Knitting and Crochet Patterns [See Full Bio](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/author/admin/) [ ](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/author/admin/) **Categories:** Yarn Reviews **Tags:** knitting pattern, knitting pattern review, yarn review --- ### [Miffy Toy Knitting Pattern (FREE) on the blog](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/miffy-toy-knitting-pattern-free-on-the-blog/) **Published:** November 19, 2025 **Author:** Jane **Content:** Created back in 1955, this little lady has been a staple of many a childhood, thanks to her simple design and heartwarming tales of family and friendship. The Miffy Toy Knitting Pattern version comes complete with embroidered features and that iconic long-sleeved dress. This would be a treasured gift for children and those who are still young at heart. ![knitted Miffy toy, miffy the rabbit wearing a red dress, knitting pattern by jane burns](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/knitted-miffy-toy-pattern-jane-burns-819x1024.png "Knitted Miffy Toy Pattern Jane Burns Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")This pattern works up beautifully in any DK yarn. The embroidered face keeps things safe for little ones, whilst the structured shape means she’ll sit perfectly on a shelf or give a snuggle. You do not need to be an experienced toy knitter, but you will need some experience of working in the round. Miffy is knit in the round meaning very little sewing up, YAY! *(Post contains affiliate links)* [ ![](https://www.awin1.com/cshow.php?s=4325289&v=89241&q=564797&r=2042069)](https://www.awin1.com/cread.php?s=4325289&v=89241&q=564797&r=2042069) #### What you will need for Miffy Toy Knitting Pattern: ##### Yarn: [King Cole, Merino Blend DK or any DK weight yarn](https://tidd.ly/49lARu9) - White, shade (1) one 50g ball - Redwood, shade (1988) one 50g ball [![king cole merino blend dk ball of yarn](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/king-cole-merino-blend-dk.webp "King Cole Merino Blend Dk Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/about/)##### Needles: - [3.25mm DPN’s or needles for working in the round](https://tidd.ly/4o3HK6K) - Also needed: - [Toy stuffing](https://tidd.ly/49o6Zx9) - Oddment of dark grey DK yarn - Stitch markers - Tapestry needle - Smooth waste yarn ##### Tension: 24 sts x 34 rows = 10cm x 10cm using 3.25mm needles and stocking stitch ##### [*Really useful tutorial for Circular Cast On – Laura Nelkin*](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2z9NsQlcs7M) ##### Special Abbreviations for Miffy Toy Knitting Pattern: - WY – waste yarn - PM – place marker - SM – slip marker [![](//affiliate.lovecrafts.com/accounts/default1/bdfg7q/328662b8.jpg)](https://www.lovecrafts.com?utm_medium=affiliate&a_aid=ffce964d&a_bid=328662b8)![](https://affiliate.lovecrafts.com/scripts/idfg7q?a_aid=ffce964d&a_bid=328662b8) ![knitted Miffy toy, miffy the rabbit wearing a red dress, knitting pattern by jane burns](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/knitted-miffy-toy-pattern-jane-burns4-819x1024.png "Knitted Miffy Toy Pattern Jane Burns4 Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")##### Finished Measurements: 23 cm tall x 11 cm wide ##### **Head** Cast on 8 sts using 3.25mm DPN’s and Yarn A. Join into the round, taking care not to twist. Round 1 and every alt round: Knit. Round 2: \*Kfb; rep from \* to end. 16 sts Round 4: \*K2, m1; rep from \* to end. 24 sts Round 6: K1, m1,\*k3, m1; rep from \* to last 2 sts, k2. 32 sts Round 8: \*K4, m1; rep from \* to end. 40 sts Round 10: K2, m1, \*k5, m1; rep from \* to last 3 sts, k3. 48 sts Round 12: \*K6, m1; rep from \* to end. 56 sts Round 14: K3, m1, \*k7, m1; rep from \* to last 4 sts, k4. 64 sts Round 16: \*K8, m1; rep from \* to end. 72 sts Rounds 17-28: Knit. Round 29: K3, k2tog, \*k7, k2tog; rep from \* to last 4 sts, k4. 64 sts Round 30 and every alt round: Knit. Round 31: \*K6, k2tog; rep from \* to end. 56 sts Round 33: K2, k2tog, \*k5, k2tog; rep from \* to last 3 sts, k3. 48 sts Round 35: \*K4, k2tog; rep from \* to end. 40 sts Round 37: K1, k2tog, \*k3, k2tog; rep from \* to last 2 sts, k2. 32 sts Round 39: \*K2, k2tog; rep from \* to end. 24 sts Round 40: Knit. *Start to add stuffing* Round 41: \*K1, k2tog; rep from \* to end. 16 sts Round 42: \*K2tog; rep from \* to end. Eight sts Add more stuffing Leave a long tail, using tapestry needle, thread through rem 8 sts, and pull tight to close, secure with stitches. Place a running thread around cast on stitch and pull tight to close. ##### **Body** Cast on 8 sts using 3.25mm DPN’s and Yarn A, join into the round, taking care not to twist. Rounds 1-12 work as for Head. 56 sts Rounds 13-20: Knit. Change to Yarn B Rounds 21-23: Knit. Round 33: K2, k2tog, \*k5, k2tog; rep from \* to last 3 sts, k3. 48 sts Round 34: Knit. Round 35: \*K4, k2tog; rep from \* to end. 40 sts Round 36: Knit. Round 37: K1, k2tog, \*k3, k2tog; rep from \* to last 2 sts, k2. 32 sts Round 38: Knit. Round 39: \*K2, k2tog; rep from \* to end. 24 sts Round 40: Knit. *Stuff* Round 41: \*K1, k2tog; rep from \* to end. 16 sts Round 42: \*K2tog; rep from \* to end. Eight sts *Add more stuffing* Leave a long tail, using a tapestry needle, thread through rem 8 sts, and pull tight to close, secure with stitches. Place a running thread around cast on stitch and pull tight to close. ##### **Ears (make two)** Cast on 18 sts using 3.25mm DPN’s and Yarn A, join into the round taking care not to twist. Rounds 1-8: Knit. Round 9: \*K4, m1; rep from \* to last 2 sts, k2. 22 sts Rounds 10-17: Knit. Round 18: \*K3, k2tog; rep from \* to last 2 sts, k2. 18 sts Rounds 19-22: Knit. Round 23: \*K2, k2tog; rep from \* to last 2 sts, k2. 14 sts Rounds 24-27: Knit. Leave a long tail, using a tapestry needle, thread through rem 14 sts and pull tight to close, secure with stitches. Stuff ears firmly, making sure to keep the tips rounded. Using image as a guide sew ears in place. ##### **Arms (make two)** Cast on 16 sts using 3.25mm DPN’s and Yarn A, join into the round taking care not to twist. Rounds 1-22: Knit. Leave a long tail, using darning needle, thread through all 16 sts and pull tight to close, secure with stitches. Stuff the hand section on the arm only. Fold top of arm flat and sew closed. Sew arms to body, TIP: you may find it easier to place the dress onto the body and mark the position of the arms to help place the arms in the correct position. ##### **Dress** Cast on 36 sts using 3.25mm DPN’s and Yarn B, join into the round taking care not to twist. Rounds 1-2: Knit. Round 3: \*K4, PM, k1, PM, k12, PM, k1, PM; rep from \* once more. Round 4 and all alt rounds: Knit. ***NOTE: slip all markers on following rounds*** Round 5: \*M1, k4, m1, k1, (k3, m1) four times, k1; rep from \* once more. 48 sts Round 7: \*M1, k6, m1, k1, (k4, m1) four times, k1; rep from \* once more. 60 sts Round 9: \*M1, k8, m1, k1, (k5, m1) four times, k1; rep from \* once more. 72 sts Round 11: \*M1, k10, m1, k1, k24, k1; rep from \* once more. 76 sts Round 13: \*M1, k12, m1, k1, k24, k1; rep from \* once more. 80 sts Round 15: \*M1, k14, m1, k1, (k6, m1) four times, k1; rep from \* once more. 92 sts. Round 16: Slip next 16 sts (Sleeve) onto waste yarn, k30, slip next 16 sts onto waste yarn, k30 (remove markers). 60 sts Round 17: K2, \*k7, m1; rep from \* to last 2 sts, k2. 68 sts Rounds 18-19: Knit. Round 20: K2, \*k8, m1; rep from \* to last 2 sts, k2. 76 sts Rounds 21-27: Knit. Round 28: Purl. Rounds 29-32: Knit. Cast off, fold hem at purl row and sew in place on the WS. ##### **Sleeves (make two)** Using 3.25mm needles and Yarn B, with RS facing rejoin yarn to first set of 16 sts on holder, knit to end, pick up and knit 2 sts, join into the round taking care not to twist sts, PM for beg of round. 18. Rounds 1-5: Knit. Cast off. Repeat for second set of 16 sts. ##### **Foot (make two)** Cast on 8 sts using 3.25mm DPN’s and Yarn A, join into the round, taking care not to twist. Round 1: Knit. Round 2: \*Kfb; rep from \* to end. 16 sts Round 3: Knit. Round 4: \*K2, m1; rep from \* to end. 24 sts Rounds 5-9: Knit. Round 10: K8, (k2tog) four times, k8. 20 sts Round 11: K6, (k2tog) four times, k6. 16 sts Rounds 12-15: Knit. Cast off. Stuff lightly, place a running stitch around cast on stitches and pull tight to close. ##### **Making up:** Weave in all ends. Place a running thread around the cast on stitches on both Head and Body and pull tight to close. Using image as a guide, sew on Ears to Head and embroider eyes and mouth using oddment of grey DK. Fold top of Arms flat and stitch closed. Attach Arms to Body, you may find it easier to place the Dress on Body first to help with positioning of Arms. Fold Dress at round 28 (purl round) and sew in place. Place Dress on Body and stitch Feet in place. Pin Head to Body and secure. ![knitted Miffy toy, miffy the rabbit wearing a red dress, knitting pattern by jane burns](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/knitted-miffy-toy-pattern-jane-burns3-819x1024.png "Knitted Miffy Toy Pattern Jane Burns3 Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")### Does Miffy Wear Pants? I adore Miffy, my children were force-fed a diet of Miffy stories, but yet when it came down to getting every detail correct, there was one question I did not know the answer to…… Does Miffy wear pants? ![miffy showing that she does wear pants](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/knitted-miffy-toy-pattern-jane-burns1-819x1024.png "Knitted Miffy Toy Pattern Jane Burns1 Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")I’d love to see your finished Miffys and hear what makes this cutie so special to you. Did you grow up reading the books? Are you knitting her for someone special? Please share your favourite Miffy memories and your finished projects. I love seeing your finished projects. ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/066546b2ab152951e53046e0634284d4bd3766d38e38270c664a7d8b09f40cd9?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Jane Designer behind Jane Burns Knitting and Crochet Patterns [See Full Bio](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/author/admin/) [ ](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/author/admin/) **Categories:** Free Knitting Patterns **Tags:** free knitting pattern, knitted toy, knitting pattern, toys --- ## Pages ### [Home](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/) **Published:** July 23, 2025 **Author:** Jane **Content:** # Home of Whimsical Knitting & Crochet Patterns ##### Welcome Yarn Lovers to Jane Burns Designs Blog Get inspired, enjoy hints, tips and tutorials that boost your confidence and creativity. Be proud to say, ‘I made this’! I’m Jane, an award-winning knitting and crochet pattern designer who creates whimsical, professional patterns that actually work. Whether you’re looking for cute baby garments or licensed character designs, I’ve got you. I pride myself on carefully checked and tech edited patterns making your craft time as stress free as possible. [SHOP PATTERNS](https://shop.janeburns.co.uk/) You can also find my patterns on [Ravelry](https://www.ravelry.com/designers/jane-burns), [Etsy](https://etsy.com/shop/JaneBurnsDesigns) and[ Love Crafts](https://www.lovecrafts.com/en-gb/d/jane-burns/77943) [![HEADER IMAGE FOR SHOP PATTERNS SECTION JANE BURNS KNIT AND CROCHET BLOG](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Copy-of-Copy-of-Boho-Pastel-Submark.zip-6-1024x1024.png "Shop Header Graphic for Jane Burns Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")](https://shop.janeburns.co.uk/)Browse Pattern Collections [![HEADER IMAGE FOR LEARN SECTION JANE BURNS KNIT AND CROCHET BLOG](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Copy-of-Copy-of-Boho-Pastel-Submark.zip-4-1024x1024.png "Copy of Copy of Boho Pastel Submarkzip 4 Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/tutorials/)Tips Tricks Tutorials [![HEADER IMAGE FOR NEWS AND REVIEWS SECTION JANE BURNS KNIT AND CROCHET BLOG](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Copy-of-Copy-of-Boho-Pastel-Submark.zip-5-1024x1024.png "News and Reviews Graphic for Jane Burns Blog Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/news-reviews/)Product reviews latest drops and tasty discount codes [![HEADER IMAGE FOR BLOG SECTION JANE BURNS KNIT AND CROCHET BLOG](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Copy-of-Copy-of-Boho-Pastel-Submark.zip-3-1024x1024.png "Blog Header Graphic for Jane Burns Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/blog-posts/)Check out the latest blog articles ## Latest Blog Posts - [![step by step knitted butterfly tutorial, free butterflies knitting pattern with photos jane burns](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/FI-step-by-step-knitted-butterfly-tutorial-jane-burns-300x169.png "Fi Step by Step Knitted Butterfly Tutorial Jane Burns Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/step-by-step-knitted-butterfly-tutorial/) [Step by Step Knitted Butterfly Tutorial & Free Knitting Pattern](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/step-by-step-knitted-butterfly-tutorial/) - [![Two knitted cushion covers on a white sofa — Abbey Road NW8 street sign cushion in black, white and red, alongside a black and white striped zebra crossing cushion, knitting pattern by Jane Burns](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/FI-Abbey-road-cushion-knitting-pattern-jane-burns-300x169.png "Fi Abbey Road Cushion Knitting Pattern Jane Burns Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/free-beatles-abbey-road-cushion-knitting-pattern-knit-your-own-piece-of-music-history/) [Free Beatles Abbey Road Cushion Knitting Pattern, Knit Your Own Piece of Music History](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/free-beatles-abbey-road-cushion-knitting-pattern-knit-your-own-piece-of-music-history/) - [![why kniting for babies is different than knitting for adults](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/FI-knitting-for-babies-jane-burns-300x169.png "Fi Knitting for Babies Jane Burns Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/why-knitting-for-babies-isnt-just-making-smaller-adult-clothes/) [Why Knitting for Babies Isn’t Just Making Smaller Adult Clothes](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/why-knitting-for-babies-isnt-just-making-smaller-adult-clothes/) - [![key to my heart, heart keyring knitting pattern jane burns](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/FI-key-to-my-heart-keyring-knitting-pattern2-1-300x169.png "Fi Key to My Heart Keyring Knitting Pattern2 Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/key-to-my-heart-keyring-pattern-free-knitting-pattern/) [Key to My Heart Keyring Pattern – Free Knitting Pattern](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/key-to-my-heart-keyring-pattern-free-knitting-pattern/) - [![blocking knitted fabric, blocking tutorial showing blue and white knit fabric before blocking](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/why-blocking-matters-fi-jane-burns-300x169.png "Why Blocking Matters Fi Jane Burns Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/essential-guide-to-blocking-knitted-projects-tool-and-techniques/) [Essential Guide to Blocking Knitted Projects, Tools and Techniques](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/essential-guide-to-blocking-knitted-projects-tool-and-techniques/) ![BANNER SHOWING JANE BURNS KNITTING AND CROCHET SOCIAL PROOF](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/home-page-graphic-jane-burns-knit-1024x538.webp "Home Page Graphic Jane Burns Knit Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")> Jane Burns is an award-winning UK-based knit and crochet designer known for her whimsical creations. With over 15 years of experience designing for top UK knitting magazines, including *The Knitter*, *Simply Knitting*, and *Knit Now*. Jane has built a reputation for patterns that are both fun to make and delightful to wear. Her designs range from playful children’s garments to cozy accessories, often featuring quirky motifs and vibrant palettes. Jane’s work has been featured on television and in collaborations with yarn brands. She believes crafting should be relaxing, and her patterns reflect that philosophy with clear instructions and approachable techniques. [![jane burns head shot image](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/About.png "About Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/about/) ![graphic showing the words customer testimonials for jane burns knitting and crochet blog](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/testimonials-1024x213.png "Testimonials Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")> “*I knitted two racing stripes jumpers for two year old twin boys. The instructions were clear to follow and the sizing was accurate. The applique cars were easy to knit and attach and add a real fun element to the jumper”* [![racing stripes jumper customer testimonal](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/testimonal-pic-racing-stripes.webp)](https://shop.janeburns.co.uk/products/racing-stripes-sweater)![newsletter sign up image for jane burns ](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/email-1024x213.webp "Email Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer") Email \* Name Subscribe ![contact us graphic for jane burns](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/contact-1024x213.webp "Contact Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")Do you have questions for me, or would you like to collaboration? Please drop me an email Jane (at) janeburns.co.uk Want to send me some goodies to review? Please drop me a line. Your name Your email Subject Your message (optional) Δ *\*\*Emails are checked twice weekly. Please allow up to 5 business days for a reply.* --- ### [Contact](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/contact/) **Published:** July 23, 2025 **Author:** Jane **Content:** # Contact Me Do you have questions about a blog post you read, a collaboration idea, or an item in my shop? Complete this form and let’s chat! You can also use this form for Pattern Support. Want to send me some goodies? Drop me a line. Your name Your email Subject Your message (optional) Δ *\*\*Emails are checked twice weekly. Please allow up to 5 business days for a reply.* - [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/KnittingImage) - [Pinterest](https://uk.pinterest.com/janeburnsdesigner/) - [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/jane.burns.designs) - [LinkedIn](http://www.linkedin.com/in/jane-burns-designs) ![Jane Burns - Knit & Crochet Designs](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Jane-Burns-Banner-Logo-1-e1754745184419.png "Jane Burns Banner Mobile Logo Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer") --- ### [Free Patterns](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/free-patterns/) **Published:** December 1, 2025 **Author:** Jane **Content:** Welcome to my growing collection of free patterns. I have seperated them into knit or crochet sections, just click on the image below to choose your crafting adventure… [![free crochet patterns graphic header jane burns blog](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/free-CROCHET-patterns-graphic-jane-burns-blog-1024x538.png "Free Crochet Patterns Graphic Jane Burns Blog Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/free-crochet-patterns/)[![free knitting patterns graphic header jane burns blog](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/free-KNITTING-patterns-graphic-jane-burns-blog-1-1024x538.png "Free Knitting Patterns Graphic Jane Burns Blog Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/free-knitting-patterns/) --- ### [landing jane burns blog, shop, knitting, crochet patterns](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/landing/) **Published:** February 2, 2026 **Author:** Jane **Content:** [![](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/blog-landing-page-image-jane-burns-1024x1024.png "Blog Landing Page Image Jane Burns Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/blog-posts/)[![words free patterns landing page graphic for jane burns knitting and crochet](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/blog-free-pattterns-landing-page-image-jane-burns-1024x1024.png "Blog Free Pattterns Landing Page Image Jane Burns Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/free-patterns/) [![word shop graphic for landing page jane burns knitting and crochet ](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/blog-shop-landing-page-image-jane-burns-1024x1024.png "Blog Shop Landing Page Image Jane Burns Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")](https://shop.janeburns.co.uk/)[![words news and reviews for landing page graphic for jane burns knitting and crochet](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/blog-news-landing-page-image-jane-burns-1024x1024.png "Blog News Landing Page Image Jane Burns Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/news-reviews/) **Get inspired, enjoy hints, tips and tutorials that boost your confidence and creativity. Be proud to say, ‘I made this’!** *I’m Jane, an award-winning knitting and crochet pattern designer who creates whimsical, professional patterns that actually work. Whether you’re looking for cute baby garments or licensed character designs, I’ve got you. I pride myself on carefully checked and tech edited patterns making your craft time as stress free as possible.* - ![step by step knitted butterfly tutorial, free butterflies knitting pattern with photos jane burns](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/FI-step-by-step-knitted-butterfly-tutorial-jane-burns-300x169.png "Fi Step by Step Knitted Butterfly Tutorial Jane Burns Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer") [Step by Step Knitted Butterfly Tutorial & Free Knitting Pattern](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/step-by-step-knitted-butterfly-tutorial/) - ![Two knitted cushion covers on a white sofa — Abbey Road NW8 street sign cushion in black, white and red, alongside a black and white striped zebra crossing cushion, knitting pattern by Jane Burns](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/FI-Abbey-road-cushion-knitting-pattern-jane-burns-300x169.png "Fi Abbey Road Cushion Knitting Pattern Jane Burns Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer") [Free Beatles Abbey Road Cushion Knitting Pattern, Knit Your Own Piece of Music History](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/free-beatles-abbey-road-cushion-knitting-pattern-knit-your-own-piece-of-music-history/) - ![why kniting for babies is different than knitting for adults](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/FI-knitting-for-babies-jane-burns-300x169.png "Fi Knitting for Babies Jane Burns Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer") [Why Knitting for Babies Isn’t Just Making Smaller Adult Clothes](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/why-knitting-for-babies-isnt-just-making-smaller-adult-clothes/) - ![key to my heart, heart keyring knitting pattern jane burns](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/FI-key-to-my-heart-keyring-knitting-pattern2-1-300x169.png "Fi Key to My Heart Keyring Knitting Pattern2 Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer") [Key to My Heart Keyring Pattern – Free Knitting Pattern](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/key-to-my-heart-keyring-pattern-free-knitting-pattern/) - ![blocking knitted fabric, blocking tutorial showing blue and white knit fabric before blocking](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/why-blocking-matters-fi-jane-burns-300x169.png "Why Blocking Matters Fi Jane Burns Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer") [Essential Guide to Blocking Knitted Projects, Tools and Techniques](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/essential-guide-to-blocking-knitted-projects-tool-and-techniques/) - ![world record attempt for crochet items, jane burns counter](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/FI-crochet-items-world-record-attempt-jane-burns-300x169.png "Fi Crochet Items World Record Attempt Jane Burns Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer") [Thousands of Crochet Cuties Counted for the Guinness Crochet World Record Attempt](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/thousands-of-crochet-cuties-counted-for-the-guinness-crochet-world-record-attempt/) ![newsletter sign up image for jane burns](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/email-1024x213.webp "Email Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer") Email \* Name Subscribe --- ### [Knitting & Crochet Tutorials](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/tutorials/) **Published:** August 9, 2025 **Author:** Jane **Content:** - ![step by step knitted butterfly tutorial, free butterflies knitting pattern with photos jane burns](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/FI-step-by-step-knitted-butterfly-tutorial-jane-burns-1024x576.png "Fi Step by Step Knitted Butterfly Tutorial Jane Burns Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer") [Step by Step Knitted Butterfly Tutorial & Free Knitting Pattern](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/step-by-step-knitted-butterfly-tutorial/) - ![why kniting for babies is different than knitting for adults](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/FI-knitting-for-babies-jane-burns-1024x576.png "Fi Knitting for Babies Jane Burns Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer") [Why Knitting for Babies Isn’t Just Making Smaller Adult Clothes](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/why-knitting-for-babies-isnt-just-making-smaller-adult-clothes/) - ![blocking knitted fabric, blocking tutorial showing blue and white knit fabric before blocking](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/why-blocking-matters-fi-jane-burns-1024x576.png "Why Blocking Matters Fi Jane Burns Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer") [Essential Guide to Blocking Knitted Projects, Tools and Techniques](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/essential-guide-to-blocking-knitted-projects-tool-and-techniques/) «[Previous](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/contact/) --- ### [Free Knitting Patterns](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/free-knitting-patterns/) **Published:** November 28, 2025 **Author:** Jane **Content:** ![free knitting patterns grapnic header jane burns blog](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/free-KNITTING-patterns-graphic-jane-burns-blog-1-1024x538.png "Free Knitting Patterns Graphic Jane Burns Blog Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")I hope you enjoy my collection of free knitting patterns, it is a work in progress. It will include patterns for all abilities, so if you are a newbie or an accomplished knitter I am sure you will find something you will enjoy. Please keep checking back to see what is new…. - ![step by step knitted butterfly tutorial, free butterflies knitting pattern with photos jane burns](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/FI-step-by-step-knitted-butterfly-tutorial-jane-burns-1024x576.png "Fi Step by Step Knitted Butterfly Tutorial Jane Burns Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer") [Step by Step Knitted Butterfly Tutorial & Free Knitting Pattern](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/step-by-step-knitted-butterfly-tutorial/)Are you looking to add that personal touch? Something quick, simple and really cute? Then I have just the thing for you. My step by step knitted butterfly tutorial including knitting pattern and photos, will have you making these cuties in no time at all. They are the perfect finishing touch to bags, hats, gloves, garments,… [Read more: Step by Step Knitted Butterfly Tutorial & Free Knitting Pattern](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/step-by-step-knitted-butterfly-tutorial/) - ![Two knitted cushion covers on a white sofa — Abbey Road NW8 street sign cushion in black, white and red, alongside a black and white striped zebra crossing cushion, knitting pattern by Jane Burns](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/FI-Abbey-road-cushion-knitting-pattern-jane-burns-1024x576.png "Fi Abbey Road Cushion Knitting Pattern Jane Burns Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer") [Free Beatles Abbey Road Cushion Knitting Pattern, Knit Your Own Piece of Music History](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/free-beatles-abbey-road-cushion-knitting-pattern-knit-your-own-piece-of-music-history/)Because hanging a poster is so last decade. If you’ve ever stood outside Abbey Road Studios on a grey London morning, craning your neck to get a photo of that zebra crossing without being flattened by a taxi, then this one’s for you. And honestly, even if you haven’t, you’re going to want these cushions.… [Read more: Free Beatles Abbey Road Cushion Knitting Pattern, Knit Your Own Piece of Music History](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/free-beatles-abbey-road-cushion-knitting-pattern-knit-your-own-piece-of-music-history/) - ![key to my heart, heart keyring knitting pattern jane burns](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/FI-key-to-my-heart-keyring-knitting-pattern2-1-1024x576.png "Fi Key to My Heart Keyring Knitting Pattern2 Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer") [Key to My Heart Keyring Pattern – Free Knitting Pattern](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/key-to-my-heart-keyring-pattern-free-knitting-pattern/)You know those moments when you suddenly realise Valentine’s Day (or a birthday, or anniversary) is tomorrow and you haven’t got a thing sorted? I’ve been there more times than I care to admit! That’s exactly why I designed this sweet little heart keyring pattern. Reasons to love the free knitted heart keyring pattern… A… [Read more: Key to My Heart Keyring Pattern – Free Knitting Pattern](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/key-to-my-heart-keyring-pattern-free-knitting-pattern/) - ![miffy toy free knitting pattern jane burns](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/MIFFY-FREE-KNITTING-PATTERN-COVER-IMAGE-1024x711.png "Miffy Free Knitting Pattern Cover Image Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer") [Miffy Toy Knitting Pattern (FREE) on the blog](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/miffy-toy-knitting-pattern-free-on-the-blog/)Created back in 1955, this little lady has been a staple of many a childhood, thanks to her simple design and heartwarming tales of family and friendship. The Miffy Toy Knitting Pattern version comes complete with embroidered features and that iconic long-sleeved dress. This would be a treasured gift for children and those who are… [Read more: Miffy Toy Knitting Pattern (FREE) on the blog](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/miffy-toy-knitting-pattern-free-on-the-blog/) ![newsletter sign up image for jane burns](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/email-1024x213.webp "Email Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer") Email \* Name Subscribe «[Previous](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/news-reviews/) --- ### [News & Reviews](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/news-reviews/) **Published:** November 20, 2025 **Author:** Jane **Content:** ![graphic showing news and reviews banner for jane burns blog](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Copy-of-Copy-of-Boho-Pastel-Submark.zip-5-1-300x300.png "Copy of Copy of Boho Pastel Submarkzip 5 Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")- ![world record attempt for crochet items, jane burns counter](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/FI-crochet-items-world-record-attempt-jane-burns-300x169.png "Fi Crochet Items World Record Attempt Jane Burns Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer") [Thousands of Crochet Cuties Counted for the Guinness Crochet World Record Attempt](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/thousands-of-crochet-cuties-counted-for-the-guinness-crochet-world-record-attempt/)This post about the crochet world record count was originally written back in 2014, when I relaunched my blog last year I decided this post needed to be kept available. It was such a huge event and memorable day and I just did not want to forget it. August was such a hectic month, school was out and I had planned some quality relaxation time, plenty of PJ days and long sleep ins. Reality was the tail end of the Christmas deadline rush. The magazines work many months in advance and I spend my life in two time zones, real… [Read more: Thousands of Crochet Cuties Counted for the Guinness Crochet World Record Attempt](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/thousands-of-crochet-cuties-counted-for-the-guinness-crochet-world-record-attempt/) - ![jane burns wearing king cole firefly firebug aran sweater review king cole pattern 6444](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/king-cole-firefly-aram-yarn-review-jane-burns-knitting-300x169.png "King Cole Firefly Aram Yarn Review Jane Burns Knitting Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer") [King Cole Firefly Yarn Review, Mesmerising Metallics & Pattern 6444](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/king-cole-firefly-yarn-review-mesmerising-metallics-pattern-6444/)When King Cole kindly sent me some of their new King Cole Firefly yarn to review along with pattern 6444 whilst I was isolating with covid, I must admit it was exactly the sort of project I needed. Something relatively quick, satisfyingly simple, and with enough visual interest to keep my brain occupied without requiring too much concentration when I wasn’t feeling my best. I’d been eyeing up this pattern anyway, a raglan style short-sleeved sweater with pretty eyelet detailing around the cuffs, hems and raglan shaping. Having lost some weight this year, I’ve been experimenting with new shapes in… [Read more: King Cole Firefly Yarn Review, Mesmerising Metallics & Pattern 6444](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/king-cole-firefly-yarn-review-mesmerising-metallics-pattern-6444/) «[Previous](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/tutorials-2/) --- ### [Free Crochet Patterns](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/free-crochet-patterns/) **Published:** November 28, 2025 **Author:** Jane **Content:** ![free crochet patterns graphic header jane burns blog](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/free-CROCHET-patterns-graphic-jane-burns-blog-1024x538.png "Free Crochet Patterns Graphic Jane Burns Blog Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")I hope you enjoy my collection of free crochet patterns, it is a work in progress. It will include patterns for all abilities, so if you are a newbie or an accomplished hooker I am sure you will find something you will enjoy. Please keep checking back to see what I have added next… - ![VIOLAT tina crochet flowers for trainer embellishment](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/VIOLA-crochet-flower-tutorial-jane-burns-FI-1024x576.png "Viola Crochet Flower Tutorial Jane Burns Fi Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer") [Viola, Free Crochet Flower Pattern to Bling your Trainers](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/viola-free-crochet-flower-pattern-to-bling-your-trainers/)Need another excuse to make pretty things? Well……………… today is Friday and what better way to celebrate than with a new pair of shoes? Almost! Meet Viola Crochet Flower Pattern Meet Viola, she is a little bolder than her little sister Vi, but not quite as loud as her big sis Violet! The pattern is… [Read more: Viola, Free Crochet Flower Pattern to Bling your Trainers](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/viola-free-crochet-flower-pattern-to-bling-your-trainers/) - ![VIOLET crochet flowers for trainer embellishment](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/VIOLET-crochet-flower-tutorial-jane-burns-FI-1024x576.png "Violet Crochet Flower Tutorial Jane Burns Fi Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer") [Violet – Crochet Flower Pattern for Sneakers](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/violet-crochet-flower-pattern-for-sneakers/)Continuing my collection of Crochet Flower Patterns to embellish your sneakers meet Violet. Named after my wonderful Nan, my woolly inspiration, my how to be ‘the nicest person’ you can be role model, and bestest person ever! I miss her.. To make Violet Crochet Flower Pattern, you will need: 3mm crochet hook, 4ply cotton yarn… [Read more: Violet – Crochet Flower Pattern for Sneakers](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/violet-crochet-flower-pattern-for-sneakers/) - ![tiny tina crochet flowers for trainer embellishment](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/TINY-TINA-crochet-flower-tutorial-jane-burns-FI-1024x576.png "Tiny Tina Crochet Flower Tutorial Jane Burns Fi Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer") [Meet Tiny Tina, Free Crochet Flower Pattern for your Sneakers Makeover](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/meet-tiny-tina-crochet-flower-pattern-for-your-sneaker-makeover/)Tina might be Tiny but she is an elegant addition to your Crochet Flower Pattern collection. Not only is Tiny Tina super cute, but better still sooooooooo fast to make. Tiny Tina also makes great hairclips. Can you suggest anything else we could use Tiny Tina for? The pattern is written in UK crochet terms To… [Read more: Meet Tiny Tina, Free Crochet Flower Pattern for your Sneakers Makeover](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/meet-tiny-tina-crochet-flower-pattern-for-your-sneaker-makeover/) - ![POPPY crochet flowers for trainer embellishment](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/POPPY-crochet-flower-tutorial-jane-burns-FI-1024x576.png "Poppy Crochet Flower Tutorial Jane Burns Fi Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer") [New Crochet Flower Pattern for your Sneaker Makeover – Poppy](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/new-crochet-flower-pattern-for-your-sneaker-makeover-poppy/)The final pattern in the Crochet Flower Pattern to embellish your ‘Converse Style’ sneakers (or trainers as we call them in the UK). Meet Poppy. To make Poppy, you will need: 3mm crochet hook, 4ply cotton yarn and two 2.5cm buttons, sewing needle and thread. Finished measurement: 5.5cm diameter The pattern is written in UK… [Read more: New Crochet Flower Pattern for your Sneaker Makeover – Poppy](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/new-crochet-flower-pattern-for-your-sneaker-makeover-poppy/) ![newsletter sign up image for jane burns](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/email-1024x213.webp "Email Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer") Email \* Name Subscribe «[Previous](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/free-knitting-patterns/) --- ### [About Jane Burns](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/about/) **Published:** July 23, 2025 **Author:** Jane **Content:** ## About Jane Burns, Knitting & Crochet Pattern Designer and Bertie too… ![jane burns knitting and crochet designer at her desk wither her dog bertie](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/jane-burns-and-bertie-image-819x1024.png "Jane Burns and Bertie Image Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")All about Jane Burns (that’s me)! Here’s what I believe, your knitting and crochet projects should be as much fun to make as they are to wear. Revolutionary? Maybe not. But it’s the reason I’ve spent nearly 18 years designing patterns that bring joy to every stitch. I’m a professional knitting and crochet pattern designer based in the Midlands, UK. My work has been featured in every major UK yarn craft magazine – from Simply Knitting to The Knitter, Knit Now to Crochet Now – and I was named Designer of the Year by Simply Knitting magazine in 2017. I’ve also had the privilege of creating officially licensed patterns for beloved characters including Snoopy, Paddington Bear, The Beatles, and The Moomin family. But here’s what really matters: I design clear, tech-edited patterns that actually work. No head-scratching moments. No frogging three times because the instructions were confusing. Just well-crafted patterns that let you enjoy the process while creating something wonderful. Whether you’re a grandparent knitting for your grandchildren or learning intarsia for the first time on a baby jumper, my patterns are designed to make you smile – and succeed. [Shop my patterns](https://shop.janeburns.co.uk/) ## How I Became a Knitting Pattern Designer My journey into pattern design began with an entrepreneurial itch and a suitcase full of knitting needles. Back in 2007, I launched a web shop importing knitting and crochet supplies that simply weren’t available in the UK yet. I became the UK distributor for Hiya Hiya needles and Schoppel Wolle yarn – both premium brands that I knew British crafters would love if they could just get their hands on them. I took my treasures to trade shows across the country, including the legendary Knitting and Stitching Show in London. Here’s where it gets interesting: I started designing sock patterns specifically to showcase the gorgeous sock yarn I was selling. Nothing fancy – just clear, wearable designs that would make people fall in love with the yarn. Those shows became more than just business opportunities; I met customers who became friends over the years, and I discovered I genuinely loved the design process as much as the entrepreneurial side. Then came the moment that changed everything. At one of those shows, an editor from Let’s Knit magazine approached me and asked if I’d design a pair of socks for their publication. I said yes before she’d finished asking. That conversation led to my first published pattern in February 2008 – Issue 3 of Let’s Knit magazine, featuring his and hers matching cable knit socks. (Yes, matching cables. I was committed to the romance of it all.) That first publication opened doors I hadn’t even known existed. I began designing quirky accessories and homewares, honing my skills and developing my signature style – patterns that made people smile while teaching them something new. By 2009, I’d sold my retail business to focus entirely on pattern design. Nearly 18 years later, I haven’t looked back. ## The Professional Bits (AKA Why You Can Trust Me With Your Yarn) In 2017, Simply Knitting magazine named me Designer of the Year. I may have cried a little. (Okay, a lot.) Since that first pair of socks in 2008, my patterns have appeared in Simply Knitting, The Knitter, Knit Now, Crochet Now, and more – essentially every major UK knitting and crochet magazine you can name. I’ve also contributed designs to various knitting books, including the delightfully titled \*All You Knit Is Love: The Beatles Knitting Book\*, where I designed three patterns: the Apple vest, the Hello Goodbye cushion, and the Rubber Soul floor cushion. Over the years, I’ve been trusted with creating officially licensed patterns for some seriously beloved characters and brands: Miffy, The Clangers, Snoopy (for both children and adults), Paddington Bear, Moomin, and Wallace & Gromit. These collaborations taught me how to honor beloved characters while creating patterns that work beautifully – skills I bring to every design I create. My work with King Cole Yarns has been particularly rewarding. I built their brand ambassador program from the ground up, and designed their \*Scandi Knits Christmas\* book – an entire collection of festive Nordic-inspired patterns. That project led to an hour of live television on Create and Craft TV, which was simultaneously terrifying and exhilarating. (I’d absolutely do it again.) ![image shows three knitting magazine covers which Jane Burns knitting patterns are featured, shows Knit Now, Simply Knitting and the knitter magazine](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/knitting-magazine-covers-jane-burns-768x420.webp)## What Makes My Knitting & Crochet Patterns Special We’ve all been there, you’re halfway through a pattern when you realize row 47 makes absolutely no sense, and you’re pretty sure the designer never actually test-knitted this thing. You’re frogging for the third time, your yarn is getting fuzzy, and you’re questioning all your life choices. I design patterns specifically to prevent those frustratons. Every single pattern I create is professionally tech edited, which means a second pair of expert eyes checks every stitch count, instruction, and measurement before it reaches you. No mysterious gaps in the pattern. No “wait, where did those extra stitches come from?” moments. Just clear, concise instructions that let you focus on the joy of creating rather than decoding cryptic directions. But here’s the thing, technically perfect patterns are only half the equation. My patterns are designed to be as much fun to make as they are to wear or gift. Many of my garments feature playful characters or cute little additions like matching toys. There’s something deeply satisfying about knitting a child’s jumper with a cheeky Snoopy on the front, or creating a cozy piece with a tiny companion to go along with it. These little touches of whimsy turn a straightforward knitting project into something that makes you smile with every row. [![stomp like a dino dinosaur sweater for kids knitting pattern by jane burns. image show the front of a childs sweater with a friendly dinosaur motif](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/dinosaur-sweater-with-character-sleeves-knitting-pattern-jane-burns-768x576.webp)](https://shop.janeburns.co.uk/products/stomp-like-a-dino-sweater)[Browse Patterns with character motifs](https://shop.janeburns.co.uk/collections) ### Perfect for Learning and Gift-Giving My patterns are particularly beloved by two groups of knitters: **Grandparents knitting for their loved ones** find that my designs combine the reliability they need (no pattern errors wasting precious time) with the charm that makes grandchildren’s faces light up. When you’re creating something with love for someone special, you want to know the pattern will work perfectly, and that the finished piece will be treasured. **Knitters building their skills** discover that my baby and children’s garments are the perfect training ground for new techniques. Want to try intarsia for the first time? A baby jumper with a small motif lets you master the technique without committing to an adult-sized project. Learning cables? A children’s cardigan works up faster and uses less yarn than an adult version, so you can practice without the overwhelm. My clear instructions mean you’re actually learning the technique properly, not just muddling through and hoping for the best. [![dino explorer hooded baby cardigan knitting pattern by jane burns](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/baby-dinosaur-hooded-cardigan-knitting-pattern-jane-burns3-768x768.webp) ](https://shop.janeburns.co.uk/products/little-stegosaur-hoodie) [Find your next learning project](https://shop.janeburns.co.uk/ "https://shop.janeburns.co.uk/") Whether you’re creating an heirloom for your grandchild or challenging yourself with learning intarsia on a baby garment, my patterns are designed to make the journey as rewarding as the destination. [Shop all my patterns](https://shop.janeburns.co.uk/) ## You’ll Love My Patterns If… - You’re a grandparent who wants to create something special that will be treasured for years. - You’re a knitter ready to try intarsia or cables on a smaller project. You appreciate clear instructions and don’t want to waste time on pattern errors. - You believe knitting should bring joy, not frustration. - And you definitely think a jumper with a tiny matching toy is exactly the kind of whimsy the world needs more of. [![the back view of a childs hooded sweater, the sweater is unicorn themed and the picture shows the unicorn ears, pink horn and rainbow coloured spiral mane running down the back of the hood. knitting pattern by jane burns](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/unicorn-hoodie-kids-knitting-pattern-jane-burns-768x960.webp)](https://shop.janeburns.co.uk/products/mystical-unicorn-hoodie)[ ](https://shop.janeburns.co.uk/products/mystical-unicorn-hoodie) ## My Favorite Knitting & Crochet Tools After nearly 18 years in the yarn industry, including my time as a UK distributor for premium brands. I’ve developed some strong opinions about tools and supplies. I’m often asked what needles, yarns, and notions I recommend, so I’m sharing my favorites here. ***As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.*** ***Full transparency:** Some of the links below are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission if you make a purchase through them. This doesn’t cost you anything extra. I only recommend products I genuinely use and trust.* ### Needles & Hooks I’m really particular when it comes to choosing my knitting needles and crochet hooks, and honestly, it’s because the right tools make such a difference. I like to work with quality stainless steel needles and hooks. There’s something about that smooth surface that just lets my stitches glide effortlessly without any annoying snagging. Now, I’m a huge advocate for interchangeable knitting needles. Not only does this help me achieve all the needle and cord length configurations I need without having to buy countless single needles, but here’s the real beauty of interchangeable circular needles. You can work in the round AND flat. Yes, you can work back and forth on circular needles! I think a lot of people don’t realize that. And when you’re knitting large pieces, using circular needles means the weight of your project sits on your lap rather than straining your lower arms and wrists. Trust me, your body will thank you. My absolute favourite brand is Hiya Hiya. I’ve tried plenty of others over the years, but I find their cables and joins to be far superior to anything else on the market, and they last for years. It’s genuinely worth the investment. That said, I’ve also included a set of bamboo interchangeable needles for those who prefer wooden needles. I actually recommend bamboo to new knitters too. They’re less slick than steel, which can really help you manage your tension better while you’re still building your skills. [*As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.*](#) [ ![Tulip Etimo Rose Soft-Grip Crochet Hook 1 piece Pink](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/413TI9skvSL._AC_.jpg) ](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00YPRM46M?tag=janbur-21) Bestseller #1 [### Tulip Etimo Rose Soft-Grip Crochet Hook 1 piece Pink ](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00YPRM46M?tag=janbur-21) £84.99 [ Buy on Amazon](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00YPRM46M?tag=janbur-21) [ ![clover 3674 Amour Crochet Hook Set, 1](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51fyVCo3HqL._AC_.jpg) ](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00GURQRAO?tag=janbur-21) Bestseller #2 [### clover 3674 Amour Crochet Hook Set, 1 ](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00GURQRAO?tag=janbur-21) £43.99 [ Buy on Amazon](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00GURQRAO?tag=janbur-21) [ ![clover Amour Crochet Hooks 10 kg-Size B to J, Fabric, Multicolor,...](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/413t5qyokAL._AC_.jpg) ](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00B2CCA6W?tag=janbur-21) Bestseller #3 [### clover Amour Crochet Hooks 10 kg-Size B to J, Fabric, Multicolor,… ](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00B2CCA6W?tag=janbur-21) £54.17 [ Buy on Amazon](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00B2CCA6W?tag=janbur-21) [ ![Hiya Hiya Interchangeable Bamboo Knitting Needles: Large size set...](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41al9Ih3ndL._AC_.jpg) ](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B005JCWF2U?tag=janbur-21) Bestseller #4 [### Hiya Hiya Interchangeable Bamboo Knitting Needles: Large size set… ](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B005JCWF2U?tag=janbur-21) £99.84 [ Buy on Amazon](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B005JCWF2U?tag=janbur-21) [ ![KnitPro Deluxe Gift Set - Zing Interchangeable Circular Needles (...](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51suult+kKL._AC_.jpg) ](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0CB622CBZ?tag=janbur-21) Bestseller #5 [### KnitPro Deluxe Gift Set – Zing Interchangeable Circular Needles (… ](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0CB622CBZ?tag=janbur-21) £63.50 [ Buy on Amazon](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0CB622CBZ?tag=janbur-21) [ ![KnitPro Zing Starter Interchangeable Needle Set 4" (10cm) | 5 Siz...](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41Lp2ml1hUL._AC_.jpg) ](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0DD7RM66V?tag=janbur-21) Bestseller #6 [### KnitPro Zing Starter Interchangeable Needle Set 4″ (10cm) | 5 Siz… ](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0DD7RM66V?tag=janbur-21) £40.50 [ Buy on Amazon](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0DD7RM66V?tag=janbur-21) ## Yarn Recommendations The yarn you choose can make or break a project. Here are some of my go-to brands for different project types: ### Baby Garments Choosing the right yarn for baby projects is something I take seriously, and for good reason. Babies have such delicate skin, almost as delicate as mine! The last thing you want after spending hours on a cardigan is for it to be too scratchy or irritating to wear. I always look for soft, washable fibres that can handle the inevitable spills and frequent laundering! Natural fibres like cotton and bamboo are brilliant for their breathability, whilst acrylic blends offer easy care and durability. Pay attention to the yarn weight too, lighter weights like DK or 4ply are perfect for layering, whilst chunkier yarns work up quickly if you’re short on time. Whatever you choose, give it a squeeze test in the shop (or read reviews carefully if you’re buying online). If it doesn’t feel soft and gentle against your own skin, it won’t be right for a baby. I’ve included my favourite baby yarns below, the ones I reach for time and again in my own designs. Cotton and acrylic blends suchs as Scheepjes, Stone Washed or Yarnsmiths, Pebble Haze DK are a great choice when it comes to baby garments. The yarn is buttery soft, made from natural fibres (great for helping baby regulate their temperature). Machine washable and comes in a wide range of gorgeous colours! I will let you into a little secret or two, I am hard pushed to tell these two yarns apart (and there is usually a significant price difference). Both yarns are a brilliant choice for colour work projects too, the marled nature of the yarn hides a multitude of sins. I have used Scheepjes, Stone Washed in a number of my designs for this reason including some of my all time favourties: Unicorn & Rainbows KIDS Sweater Pattern, Intarsia Unicorn Jumper – Knitting Pattern [![](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/unicorn-and-rainbow-kids-sweater-pattern-knitting-pattern-download5-1024x768.png "Unicorn and Rainbow Kids Sweater Pattern Knitting Pattern Download5 Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")](https://shop.janeburns.co.uk/products/unicorn-rainbows-sweater-pattern-kids)And the super cute, Snowball Bunny Pants, Baby Romper Dungarees – Knitting Pattern [![snowball bunny pants image knitted baby romper dungarees with bunny pockets, knitting pattern jane burns](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Snowball-bunny-pants-jane-burns6-1024x768.png "Snowball Bunny Pants Jane Burns6 Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")](https://shop.janeburns.co.uk/products/snowball-bunny-pants)##### **Scheepes,** **Stone Washed** Blend 78% Cotton / 22% Acrylic (130m per 50g ball) available in 52 colours [![scheepjes stone washed cotton acrylic yarn for baby garments](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Scheepjes-stone-washed-1-201x300.png "Scheepjes Stone Washed Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")](https://tidd.ly/47JJbma)##### **[Yarnsmiths, Pebble Haze DK](https://tidd.ly/4hXZYoT)** Blend 67% Cotton / 33% Acrylic (145m per 50g ball) available in 35 colours [![yarnsmiths pebble haze dk cotton acrylic yarn perfect for baby garments knit and crochet](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/pebble-haze-yarn-woolwarehouse-2-1024x683.jpg "Pebble Haze Yarn Woolwarehouse Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")](https://tidd.ly/4hXZYoT)##### **[Yarnsmiths, Pebble Haze Prints DK](https://tidd.ly/4p48RQ7)** Blend 78% Cotton / 22% Acrylic (435m per 150g ball) available in 30 colours [![yarnsmiths pebble haze prints dk cotton acrylic yarn perfect for baby garments knit and crochet](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/pebble-haze-prints-yarn-wool-warehouse-1-1024x683.jpg "Pebble Haze Prints Yarn Wool Warehouse Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")](https://tidd.ly/4p48RQ7)[![](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/pebble-haze-prints-yarn-wool-warehouse-edited.webp "Pebble Haze Prints Yarn Wool Warehouse Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")](https://tidd.ly/4p48RQ7)Yarnsmiths Pebble Haze Prints DK[![cotton bamboo yarns scheepjes stone washed yarnsmiths pebble haze](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/pebble-haze-yarn-woolwarehouse-1024x683.jpg "Pebble Haze Yarn Woolwarehouse Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")](https://tidd.ly/4hXZYoT)Yarnsmiths Pebble Haze DK[![](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Scheepjes-stone-washed-edited.webp "Scheepjes Stone Washed Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")](https://tidd.ly/3LyyYjS)Scheepjes Stone Washed## Best all round yarn My all time favourite yarn has to be King Cole, Merino Blend DK, and I could sing its praises all day. The stitch definition is superb, cables pop beautifully, moss stitch looks crisp and clear, and any colourwork (whether stranded or intarsia) takes on a really professional, elevated finish. That’s partly down to the natural fibres giving you a little bit of grip and that subtle halo you get with wool, but it’s also because the yarn itself just looks quality. There’s no artificial sheen, it has that lovely, slightly rustic sheepy look that makes everything you knit feel handmade in the best possible way. The shades are gorgeous too, with natural, muted tones that work for absolutely everything. Now, I’ll be honest: when you first squeeze the ball, it feels a touch rough, and you might think “is this really soft enough for a baby?” But the moment you block your finished piece, it transforms into something beautifully soft that I’m more than happy to use for baby garments. It’s one of those yarns that just gets better and better with wear and washing. ##### King Cole, Merino Blend DK I have used Merino Blend DK in so many of my designs including my best selling design the Dinosaur Explorer Hooded Cardigan knitting pattern (there is a crochet version too) [![toddler wearing jane burns dinosaur explorer hooded cardigan knitting pattern. It is a light grey hooded cardigan with knitted spikes down the back of the hood and body. there is a tail at the centre back bottom of the cardigan.](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/baby-dinosaur-hooded-cardigan-knitting-pattern-jane-burns3-1-1024x1024.png "Baby Dinosaur Hooded Cardigan Knitting Pattern Jane Burns3 Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")](https://shop.janeburns.co.uk/products/little-stegosaur-hoodie)##### [King Cole, Merino Blend DK](https://tidd.ly/49lARu9) Blend 100% Pure New Superwash Wool, 104m per 50g ball (available in 62 colours) [![king cole merino blend dk yarn review jane burns ](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/king-cole-merino-blend-dk-166x300.webp "King Cole Merino Blend Dk Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")](https://tidd.ly/49lARu9)Soft, versatile, and easy-care, Merino Blend DK is a high-quality yarn made from 100% Pure New Superwash Wool, bringing warmth and practicality to each creation. Perfect for a variety of projects, from cosy sweaters to stylish accessories, this double knitting yarn offers excellent stitch definition and a wide range of vibrant and neutral colours. Made from 100% Pure New Superwash Wool, Merino Blend DK is machine washable, so creations can be loved and used without worry. [This yarn is EN71-3 Certified.](https://www.kingcole.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/Merino-Blend-DK.pdf) [ ![](https://www.awin1.com/cshow.php?s=4325289&v=89241&q=564797&r=2042069)](https://www.awin1.com/cread.php?s=4325289&v=89241&q=564797&r=2042069) ### The Notions That Make Life Easier Don’t underestimate the power of good notions. These are the tools that live permanently in my project bag: Locking stitch markers are an absolute must for both knitting and crochet projects. They’re honestly the most versatile type of marker you can own. You can insert them into your project and move them around easily, which is so helpful when you’re working through complex patterns. I use them for all sorts of things. They’re brilliant for holding pieces together when you’re sewing up projects, and I love using different colours to indicate different instructions. For example, one colour might mark where I need to increase, another shows where buttons go, and maybe a third reminds me where to add eyes on an amigurumi project. It keeps everything organized without having to constantly refer back to my pattern. Now, Clover makes superior quality markers. Their design means absolutely no snagging on your yarn, which is crucial. That said, I also have a big box of various coloured markers from other brands. They’re not quite as flexible as the Clover ones, but they’re still perfect for my projects and great for when you need lots of different colours to keep track of multiple pattern elements. *Amazon Affiliate Links Below* As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases [ ![Jatidne 120PCS Stitch Markers Crochet Knitting with Compartment B...](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41yAUHNRnxL._AC_.jpg) ](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B06XJZN55R?tag=janbur-21) [### Jatidne 120PCS Stitch Markers Crochet Knitting with Compartment B… ](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B06XJZN55R?tag=janbur-21) £3.98 [ Buy on Amazon](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B06XJZN55R?tag=janbur-21) [ ![Clover Quick Locking Stitch Markers (Medium), Pink/Blue, 13 x 6.5...](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41PtWWgyKSL._AC_.jpg) ](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B01MZ8FY4A?tag=janbur-21) [### Clover Quick Locking Stitch Markers (Medium), Pink/Blue, 13 x 6.5… ](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B01MZ8FY4A?tag=janbur-21) £7.11 [ Buy on Amazon](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B01MZ8FY4A?tag=janbur-21) ## Measuring Tools A good gauge ruler is essential, and I love the ones that have needle and hook sizes marked on them. I actually keep two on hand. The square one is perfect for getting accurate row and stitch gauge measurements, which matters more than people think when you want your finished piece to actually fit properly. My other favourite is this cute sheep gauge ruler that has a built-in yarn cutter. It’s brilliant for travel because you’re not fumbling around looking for scissors, and honestly, it just makes me smile every time I use it. You’ll also need a quality tape measure for measuring larger pieces and taking body measurements to ensure a proper fit. There’s nothing more frustrating than finishing a garment only to realise it doesn’t fit because your measurements were off at the start. And here’s my fun recommendation: treat yourself to one of those wearable tape measures. They’re practical because your tape measure is always right there when you need it, but they’re also just delightful to wear. It’s one of those little things that makes crafting feel even more special [ ![Clover 3200 Swatch Ruler and Needle Gauge, (PET), Assorted, 10cm](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41u4dKoPwtL._AC_.jpg) ](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07N36FV8T?tag=janbur-21) [### Clover 3200 Swatch Ruler and Needle Gauge, (PET), Assorted, 10cm ](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07N36FV8T?tag=janbur-21) £9.54 [ Buy on Amazon](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07N36FV8T?tag=janbur-21) [ ![KnitPro - KnitPro The Mindful Collection (150cm) Wood Retractable...](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51lpvv6PK0L._AC_.jpg) ](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0B7S7TSHC?tag=janbur-21) [### KnitPro – KnitPro The Mindful Collection (150cm) Wood Retractable… ](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0B7S7TSHC?tag=janbur-21) £15.95 [ Buy on Amazon](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0B7S7TSHC?tag=janbur-21) [ ![The Crafters' Multi-Wrap | 7-in-1 Leather Measuring Tool,Multifun...](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51hX5037CGL._AC_.jpg) ](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0FWKDMSH3?tag=janbur-21) [### The Crafters’ Multi-Wrap | 7-in-1 Leather Measuring Tool,Multifun… ](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0FWKDMSH3?tag=janbur-21) [ Buy on Amazon](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0FWKDMSH3?tag=janbur-21) [ ![KnitPro KP10995 NEEDLE & CROCHET VIEW SIZER WITH YARN CUTTER-LILA...](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41NF5mRmdVL._AC_.jpg) ](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B073WDWXQG?tag=janbur-21) [### KnitPro KP10995 NEEDLE & CROCHET VIEW SIZER WITH YARN CUTTER-LILA… ](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B073WDWXQG?tag=janbur-21) £5.15 [ Buy on Amazon](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B073WDWXQG?tag=janbur-21) ### Everything Else You’ll need a selection of notions for your projects, but here’s the thing, you’ll also want something cute and practical to store them in. I’ve added a couple of my favourite project bags, and both have dedicated sections for keeping your needles and notions safe and organized. There’s nothing worse than your tools rattling around loose and getting lost at the bottom of your bag. In my project bag, along with all the measuring and marking tools, you’ll also find a digital row counter. It’s so easy to use, and you just pop it on your finger whilst you work. No more losing track of where you are in your pattern! I also keep a selection of small crochet hooks on a keyring, which is an absolute lifesaver when picking up those pesky dropped stitches. Even if you’re primarily a knitter, trust me, you need these. Now, the last couple of products might surprise you, but hear me out. Dry hands and chipped nails will snag your project, and there’s nothing more heartbreaking than damaging something you’ve spent hours creating. So it’s best to keep those fabulous fingers pristine with a good hand cream and nail care. Your yarn will thank you! [ ![Purple Knit Row Counter, Finger Digital Counter, Crochet Stitch M...](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41Cu-3CTFZL._AC_.jpg) ](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0DCRGLX54?tag=janbur-21) [### Purple Knit Row Counter, Finger Digital Counter, Crochet Stitch M… ](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0DCRGLX54?tag=janbur-21) [ Buy on Amazon](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0DCRGLX54?tag=janbur-21) [ ![muud Saturn XL Leather Knitting Bag / Toiletry Bag - Whisky Brown...](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/3133aj0FOUL._AC_.jpg) ](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0BQMVFKYL?tag=janbur-21) [### muud Saturn XL Leather Knitting Bag / Toiletry Bag – Whisky Brown… ](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0BQMVFKYL?tag=janbur-21) £129.62 [ Buy on Amazon](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0BQMVFKYL?tag=janbur-21) [ ![STYLFILE 2 Curved Nail File – S-Shaped Ergonomic Nail Shaper with...](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41YAuKRzaGL._AC_.jpg) ](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B007HMRTLC?tag=janbur-21) [### STYLFILE 2 Curved Nail File – S-Shaped Ergonomic Nail Shaper with… ](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B007HMRTLC?tag=janbur-21) £4.49 [ Buy on Amazon](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B007HMRTLC?tag=janbur-21) [ ![Embroidery Scissors Small, Sewing Scissors Stainless Steel Small ...](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41BABCF9GTL._AC_.jpg) ](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B09YRJMCQQ?tag=janbur-21) [### Embroidery Scissors Small, Sewing Scissors Stainless Steel Small … ](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B09YRJMCQQ?tag=janbur-21) £4.45 [ Buy on Amazon](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B09YRJMCQQ?tag=janbur-21) [ ![Korbond General Purpose Scissors 5 INCH (13cm) Comfort Grip Profe...](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41Hudmut6cL._AC_.jpg) ](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B007MCRTYE?tag=janbur-21) [### Korbond General Purpose Scissors 5 INCH (13cm) Comfort Grip Profe… ](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B007MCRTYE?tag=janbur-21) [ Buy on Amazon](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B007MCRTYE?tag=janbur-21) [### ](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B000WUXO4W?tag=janbur-21) £7.79 [ Buy on Amazon](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B000WUXO4W?tag=janbur-21) [ ![Portable Craft Bag for Knitting & Crochet Accessories, Wool & Yar...](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51maT9gwDuL._AC_.jpg) ](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0CQL4JZQJ?tag=janbur-21) [### Portable Craft Bag for Knitting & Crochet Accessories, Wool & Yar… ](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0CQL4JZQJ?tag=janbur-21) £14.99 [ Buy on Amazon](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0CQL4JZQJ?tag=janbur-21) [ ![L'OCCITANE Shea Butter Hand Cream 150ml | Enriched with Shea Butt...](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/31AbIowgEwL._AC_.jpg) ](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B09JZQSM6C?tag=janbur-21) [### L’OCCITANE Shea Butter Hand Cream 150ml | Enriched with Shea Butt… ](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B09JZQSM6C?tag=janbur-21) £27.00 [ Buy on Amazon](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B09JZQSM6C?tag=janbur-21) [ ![Aveeno Daily Moisturising Hand Cream (1x 75ml), Nourishing Lotion...](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/31u11thiswL._AC_.jpg) ](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B001RYOSIS?tag=janbur-21) [### Aveeno Daily Moisturising Hand Cream (1x 75ml), Nourishing Lotion… ](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B001RYOSIS?tag=janbur-21) £4.50 [ Buy on Amazon](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B001RYOSIS?tag=janbur-21) [ ![Mini Crochet Hook Keyring Set (3mm, 4mm, 5mm) – Aluminum Hooks wi...](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/31hoBxHc+fL._AC_.jpg) ](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0CRHYDPTV?tag=janbur-21) [### Mini Crochet Hook Keyring Set (3mm, 4mm, 5mm) – Aluminum Hooks wi… ](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0CRHYDPTV?tag=janbur-21) £4.99 [ Buy on Amazon](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0CRHYDPTV?tag=janbur-21) [![](//affiliate.lovecrafts.com/accounts/default1/bdfg7q/328662b8.jpg)](https://www.lovecrafts.com?utm_medium=affiliate&a_aid=ffce964d&a_bid=328662b8)![](https://affiliate.lovecrafts.com/scripts/idfg7q?a_aid=ffce964d&a_bid=328662b8) ### Books Worth Your Time Whether you’re learning to knit or crochet, or you’re a seasoned crafter, these books are absolute must haves for your collection. I still find myself reaching for them whenever I need to learn something new or refresh my skills (jog my memory!). It happens to all of us, right??? Patty Lyons is an excellent teacher with a real talent for explaining not only the how, but the why we do things a certain way. That deeper understanding makes such a difference when you’re trying to improve your technique or troubleshoot a problem. And Jane Crowfoot? She’s the queen of crochet teachers, absolutely no question. When I was learning to knit, I was fortunate enough to take a finishing techniques class with Jane, and it was genuinely transformative. Her Finishing Techniques book has been out of print for many years now, which is such a shame, but I had to include it in my list anyway. Trust me when I say it is well worth hunting down a second-hand copy. It’s one of those books you’ll treasure and refer back to for years. #### Browse My Amazon Bookshelf ***As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases*** [ ![Patty Lyons' Knitting Bag Of Tricks: Sanity saving tips for bette...](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51fKi9yUqiL.jpg) ](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/1446309118?tag=janbur-21) [### Patty Lyons’ Knitting Bag Of Tricks: Sanity saving tips for bette… ](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/1446309118?tag=janbur-21) £12.95 [ Buy on Amazon](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/1446309118?tag=janbur-21) [ ![Patty Lyons' Knitting Bag of Tricks: The Official Workbook: Hands...](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51AA+UTNMIL.jpg) ](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/1446313557?tag=janbur-21) [### Patty Lyons’ Knitting Bag of Tricks: The Official Workbook: Hands… ](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/1446313557?tag=janbur-21) £14.35 [ Buy on Amazon](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/1446313557?tag=janbur-21) [ ![By Jane Crowfoot - Ultimate Crochet Bible (C&B Crafts)](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51dluPnwsmL.jpg) ](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00I61PHIK?tag=janbur-21) [### By Jane Crowfoot – Ultimate Crochet Bible (C&B Crafts) ](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00I61PHIK?tag=janbur-21) £76.56 [ Buy on Amazon](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00I61PHIK?tag=janbur-21) [ ![Finishing Techniques for Hand Knitters](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/61pbMEahDML.jpg) ](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/1903975840?tag=janbur-21) [### Finishing Techniques for Hand Knitters ](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/1903975840?tag=janbur-21) £3.48 [ Buy on Amazon](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/1903975840?tag=janbur-21) **Want more recommendations?** Join my email list for monthly tool recommendations, yarn reviews, and exclusive pattern discounts – plus get 50**% off your first pattern purchase** when you subscribe! ![newsletter sign up image for jane burns](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/email-1024x213.png "Email Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")The best pattern tips, new design launches, and yarn recommendations don’t happen on this page – they happen in my newsletter and on Instagram. #### **JOIN MY EMAIL LIST BELOW & GET 50% OFF** > Email \* > > Subscribe When you subscribe to my newsletter, you’ll get: – - **50% off your first pattern purchase** (welcome gift!) - **Exclusive pattern discounts** available only to subscribers - **Early access to new releases** before they’re available to the public - **Monthly recommendations** for yarns, tools, and techniques I’m currently loving - **Behind-the-scenes peeks** at works-in-progress and the design process - Pure yarn joy, no fluff [**SUBSCRIBE NOW & GET 50% OFF**](#subscribe)\* *\*50% off your first purchase, code will be emailed to you (please check spam folder). This offer can not be used in conjunction with any other offer. Only valid on my website and not on Ravelry, Etsy or Love Crafts* [![](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/social-1024x213.png "Social Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")](https://instagram.com/Jane.Burns.Designs)### Follow Along on Social Media I share daily inspiration, work-in-progress photos, and connect with the yarn crafting community on: - **Instagram**: [@Jane.Burns.Designs](https://instagram.com/Jane.Burns.Designs) where you’ll find finished projects, pattern sneak peeks, and the occasional knitting pun - **Facebook**: - **Pinterest**: [**VISIT MY RAVELRY SHOP**](http://www.ravelry.com/stores/knitting-image--designs-by-jane-burns) I’m active on Ravelry as [KnittingImage](https://www.ravelry.com/stores/knitting-image--designs-by-jane-burns), where you can browse my pattern library, see projects made by other knitters and crocheters, and join the discussion in pattern forums. ### Before you go, here are a few things you should probably know about me: **Yes, I once designed knitted judges for Harry Hill’s TV show “So You Think You Can Knit.”** He sent me sketches, and I turned them into three-dimensional knitted characters. It remains one of the most wonderfully bizarre projects of my career, and I absolutely loved every minute of it. **My yarn stash is legendary.** I stopped counting skeins years ago. If there’s ever a yarn shortage, you know where to find me. **I design with tea and cake.** There’s something about a proper cup of tea and a slice of something sweet that makes the creative process flow. It’s not procrastation if it’s part of the ritual, right? **My studio assistant is a miniature schnauzer called Bertie** who specializes in napping on yarn, stealing tape measures, and providing moral support during the ‘stare at wall and think’ phase of design. ![contact us graphic for jane burns](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/contact-1024x213.png "Contact Jane Burns Knit Crochet Designer")Have questions? Would you like to collaborate with me? Pleae feel free to reach out at jane (at) janeburns.co.uk Your name Your email Subject Your message (optional) Δ Thanks for spending time getting to know me. Now go make something wonderful – I can’t wait to see what you create! Want to send me some goodies to review? Drop me a line. *\*\*Emails are checked twice weekly. Please allow up to 5 business days for a reply.* --- ### [Tutorials](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/tutorials-2/) **Published:** November 19, 2025 **Author:** Jane **Content:** Coming Soon --- ### [Privacy Policy](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/privacy-policy/) **Published:** November 15, 2025 **Author:** Jane **Content:** #### **Who we are** Our website address is: http://www.blog.janeburns.co.uk We respect your privacy and are committed to protecting it. The purpose of this Privacy Policy is to inform you what personally identifiable information we may collect and how it may be used. This statement only applies to this Website. #### Copyright All photographs, patterns and designs on my website are the property of Jane Burns. Patterns and designs are subject to copyright, and are for personal use only. You may not republish, redistribute or sell these patterns. #### Affiliate Links Jane Burns Blog and Social Media channels contains some affiliate links. If you click on an affiliate link through to a product and purchase, I will receive a small amount/percentage of your purchase, at no additional cost to you. I only ever add affiliate links to a post/review to products and retailers I know and trust. Any views and opinions shared on this blog have been written by me and are entirely my own. #### Privacy Policies Jane Burns Designs (“Website”) is governed by the following privacy policy (“Privacy Policy”). We respect your privacy and are committed to protecting it. This Privacy Policy is to inform you what personally identifiable information we might collect and how it might be used. This only applies to this Website. ##### Information You Voluntarily Submit to the Website: We may collect personal information from you such as your name or email address. For example, you may voluntarily submit information to the Website by leaving a comment, subscribing to a newsletter, purchasing an item, or submitting a contact form. ##### Automatically Collected Information: We automatically collect certain information about you and the device with which you use to access the Website. For example, when you use the Website, we will log your IP address, operating system type, browser type, pages you viewed, and the dates/times. ##### Cookies: We may log information using cookies, which are small data files stored on your browser by the Website which provide you with a more personalised experience on the Website. ##### We may use the information collected in the following ways: To send you promotional information, such as newsletters. Each email promotion will provide information on how to opt-out of future mailings; To respond to your comments or inquiries. To track and measure advertising on the Website. To protect, investigate, and deter against unauthorised or illegal activity. ##### Third-Party Use Of Personal Information: We may share your information with third parties when you explicitly authorise us to share your information. Additionally, the Website may use third-party service providers to service various aspects of the Website. Each third-party service provider’s use of your personal information is dictated by their respective privacy policies. The Website currently uses the following third-party service provider: Google Analytics – this service tracks Website usage and provides information such as referring websites. Google Analytics may capture your IP address, but no other personal information. Except when required by law, we will not sell, distribute, or reveal your email addresses or other personal information without your consent. ##### Publicly Visible Information If you leave a comment, certain information may be publicly visible. Your email address will not be available publicly. ##### Cookies Users may, at any time, prevent the setting of cookies, by the Website, by using a corresponding setting of your internet browser. Already set cookies may be deleted at any time via an Internet browser or other software programs. This is possible in all popular Internet browsers. ##### Advertising Display Ads: We may use third-party advertising companies to serve content and advertisements when you visit the Website, which may use cookies, as detailed above. #### Contact Information At any time, please contact us at jane at janeburns.co.uk for questions related to this Privacy Policy. - We use Google Analytics to analyse the use of our website. Google Analytics gathers information about website use by means of cookies. The information gathered relating to our website is used to create reports about the use of our website. Google’s privacy policy is available at: - Advertising. This Site will be affiliated with Marketing companies in the future, for the purpose of placing advertising on the Site.This space will be updated as and when this happens. You can contact us for further details at the email jane (at) janeburns.co.uk #### EU GPSR Compliance Any PDF sales from Jane Burns Designs are supplied in compliance with EU GPSR regulations as follows: Technical Information File Format: The crochet pattern is provided as a digital PDF file only; no physical copy of the pattern or finished item will be supplied. By purchasing and downloading this pattern, you agree to the following below. File Size: under 20MB. Device/Software Compatibility: Compatible with devices supporting PDF readers such as Adobe Acrobat on smartphones, tablets, and computers. Internet Requirements: An internet connection is needed for downloading the file after purchase. Usage Instructions: Download the PDF file from the confirmation email or your account’s download section. Usage Instructions Complete your purchase on this platform. Download the PDF file from the confirmation email or your account’s download section. Open the file on any PDF-compatible device and follow the pattern instructions. Required tools: see Materials Needed. Safety and Compliance Compliance: This pattern complies with the General Product Safety Regulation (GPSR) and other applicable EU Directives. Precautions: Not suitable for children under 16 without adult supervision. Ensure your device can open PDF files before purchase. Disclaimer: This product is for educational and personal use only. #### Refund Policy This listing is for a digital download PDF pattern, not the finished item. Due to the nature of digital downloads, no refunds will be issued. Please review all product details before purchase. Disclaimer for Use: This pattern is provided “as is” without any guarantees or warranty. In connection with the use of the pattern, the designer makes no warranties of any kind, either express or implied, including but not limited to warranties of merchantability, non-infringement, or fitness for a particular purpose. The designer is not liable for any damages, including but not limited to direct, indirect, incidental, or consequential damages, arising from the use or inability to use the pattern. #### Updates and Maintenance Includes free updates for any corrections or clarifications. Updates will be sent via email or can be downloaded from your account. #### Legal and Contact Information Business Name: Jane Burns Designs. Business Address: Unit 157622, PO Box 7169, Poole, BH15 9EL Privacy Policy: https://www.blog.janeburns.co.uk/privacy-policy/ EU Compliance Responsible Person (for authorities only): Ciara Doyle, 6 Killallon Close, C15 Y5F9, Ireland. Ciara@TheFairythorn.ie --- ## Categories ### [Uncategorized](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/category/uncategorized/) --- ### [Knitting Tips](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/category/knitting-tips/) --- ### [Free Knitting Patterns](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/category/free-knitting-patterns/) **Description:** Check out the growing collection of free knitting patterns available on my blog. --- ### [Free Crochet Patterns](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/category/free-crochet-patterns/) --- ### [Tutorials](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/category/tutorials/) --- ### [Yarn Reviews](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/category/yarn-reviews/) --- ### [News](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/category/yarn-reviews/news/) --- ## Tags ### [knitting tools](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/tag/knitting-tools/) --- ### [free knitting pattern](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/tag/free-knitting-pattern/) --- ### [knitted toy](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/tag/knitted-toy/) --- ### [knitting pattern](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/tag/knitting-pattern/) --- ### [toys](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/tag/toys/) --- ### [crochet flower](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/tag/crochet-flower/) --- ### [crochet pattern](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/tag/crochet-pattern/) --- ### [free crochet pattern](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/tag/free-crochet-pattern/) --- ### [yarn review](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/tag/yarn-review/) --- ### [knitting pattern review](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/tag/knitting-pattern-review/) --- ### [blocking knitted fabric](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/tag/blocking-knitted-fabric/) --- ### [blocking](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/tag/blocking/) --- ### [block knits](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/tag/block-knits/) --- ### [block crochet](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/tag/block-crochet/) --- ### [technique](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/tag/technique/) --- ### [free pattern](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/tag/free-pattern/) --- ### [FREE Abbey Road Knitted Cushion Cover Patterns](https://blog.janeburns.co.uk/tag/free-abbey-road-knitted-cushion-cover-patterns/) ---