Category: Kits & Patterns

1. Meet Fisterra - inspired by the dramatic beauty of Spain’s ‘Land’s End

   Posted on 12:00pm Saturday 1st Feb 2025

   Hi,  Meet "Fisterra", my latest creative design. inspired by the dramatic beauty of Spain’s ‘Land’s End This shawl combines the rhythmic flow of brioche with the delicate beauty of lace. It features one-color brioche and stocking stitch stripes, leading into a simple lace pattern. The shawl begins with a garter stitch tab and is worked outward from the center spine to form two triangles. Once the brioche and stocking stitch stripes are established within the increases, the lace pattern is introduced. Like most lace patterns, the decreases and eyelets are worked on the right side. A final row of eyelets adds the finishing touch.

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   Buy the Kit - low stock

   Why Brioche Lace? "I was inspired by Nancy Marchant’s exploration of brioche lace, particularly her innovative techniques for creating openwork within brioche fabric. However, I wanted to keep my own brioche lace design as simple and approachable as possible. Like traditional knitted lace, I have chosen to work in a single color to highlight the eyelets clearly. I have also kept the structure straightforward—using just one yarn over for each decrease and working the lace pattern only on the right side of the fabric. This keeps the rhythm intuitive while still creating a beautifully delicate effect." The Fisterra shawl finishes off being over 2 metres wide and 30 inch deep and so is incredibly versatile. Here are some different ways to wear it: Classic Point Front – Drape the shawl around your neck with the point hanging down in front, wrapping the ends around your neck for warmth. Shoulder Wrap – Wear it draped over your shoulders like a traditional shawl, perfect for layering over a dress or top. Kerchief Style – Fold the shawl in half to create a smaller triangle and tie it loosely around your neck for a casual, scarf-like look. Off-the-Shoulder Wrap – Let the shawl sit asymmetrically across your shoulders and pin it with a shawl pin or brooch for an elegant, secure fit. Wrapped Like a Poncho – Cross the ends over your chest and tuck them under the back of the shawl for a poncho-like effect. Belted – Wrap the shawl around your shoulders or waist and secure it with a belt for a chic, structured look. Back Drape – Wear the shawl with the point down your back and wrap the ends around your neck for a dramatic yet cozy style. Twisted Loop – Fold the shawl into a long, narrow shape, loop it around your neck, and tuck in the ends for extra warmth..

    

   Interested in learning Brioche ? Well I have some learning material specially for you. From a beginners headband (I've seen this knitted a multitude of times) to the 2 coloured Heatwave cowl I've got it all covered. Techniques are explained in photo snap shots and videos.  I plan to add videos of Brioche lace in here too..... watch this space.

2. Learning a new trick

   Posted on 12:00pm Friday 29th Nov 2024

   Macrame is a fun, tactile craft that’s great for creating small, decorative pieces perfect for the Christmas season. Using just a few simple knots, you can make charming ornaments like mini Christmas trees, stars, or angels, which bring a handmade touch to Christmas decor. Small projects like these are also ideal for beginners, allowing you to explore basic macrame techniques without committing to a large project.

   A couple of days ago I decided to have a go at this wonderful craft, see if I could recreate the beautiful circular visions I had seen.  The 'SNOWFLAKES' kit I sell seemed the obvious choice, little mini projects, each of which could be completed in an hour or two. Well to my delight I smashed it.

   The macrame bug took hold and other creations appeared.

   Bergin & Bath Mandala Kits -   Premium craft kits, planet-friendly projects, packaged with style.   Our motto is  #CraftnotCrap

   The joy with purchasing a kit is that ALL the instructions, macrame yarn, circles and beads are included in the kit so as a starting point these are great. Once you've mastered the 1st one, you then know what materials to buy and there are plenty of free tutorials to move you on a stage. Macrame for Beginners offers a range of Christmas tutorials, including projects for mini wreaths, Christmas trees, and stars. Each design is beginner-friendly, using accessible materials and providing step-by-step guides for easy crafting. You can explore options like cinnamon stick ornaments or gnomes, which are perfect for the holidays​ Macrame for Beginners. Marching North has tutorials for several easy macrame Christmas ornaments, like macrame angels and a tassel ornament incorporating dried orange slices for a rustic feel. These projects use simple materials and can be completed quickly, making them great for quick gift ideas or festive touches around your home​ Marching North Macrame Reindeer Ornaments - Carolina Montoni offers a tutorial on crafting small reindeer ornaments that would add a whimsical, handmade charm to any Christmas tree. This beginner-friendly project focuses on simple knotting techniques, making it accessible for anyone looking to add a festive touch to their decor​ Grit and Graceful Macrame Angel Ornaments - Chasta from Soulful Notions has an easy-to-follow guide on creating angel ornaments using soft, golden-hued macrame cord. These delicate angels can be customized with various colors to suit your tree or holiday theme. Lori Lori also offers a simpler version if you're looking to create a few in quick succession​ Curious Craft Studio Macrame Candy Cane Ornament - Julia Tothefullest shares a DIY for candy cane ornaments made with colorful macrame cord, perfect for a traditional holiday look. This quick project uses basic knots and can be a fun way to introduce kids to macrame​ Grit and Graceful For more inspiration, consider joining a macrame community, such as the Macrame for Beginners Facebook group, where crafters share ideas, troubleshoot projects, and offer support to fellow beginners. These sources provide creative ideas that balance skill-building with the joy of handmade Christmas decor!