Whether you are celebrating a big milestone or just soaking up the first bits of sunshine, it is officially Star Season at Doily Designs. I have just released a brand new tutorial for an old favorite and a couple of ways for you to reach for the stars!
Use for Endless Occasions!!
For the Graduates: Hook up a few in school colors to top a gift or hang from tassel. A little handmade 'You did it!' goes a long way.
For the Teachers: The perfect quick stitch addition to a 'Thank You' note or a gift card holder as the school year wraps up.
For the Summer: String them together for a patriotic July 4th garland or some hobo porch decor for those long Texas summer nights.
Choose Your Learning Style:
πΊ The Tutorial: follow along with me step by step on Youtube! Perfect if you want to sit back and learn into some crochet therapy while we build this together. Tiniest Star Tutorial on Youtube as well with the Magic Ring tutorial!
π The Freebie: Grab the written instructions for the Small Star Pattern free here on the Blog. Great for a quick reference on the go. Along with the free Tiniest Star Pattern also free here on the Blog.
π The Pro Map (Etsy): For my fellow visual spatial thinkers, the Paid Star Chart is waiting for you in the shop. If you prefer to see the architecture of the stitches in a clean printable photo along with reading the text, this chart is your star friend. Star Chart Pattern on Etsy.
Let's see those stars! Tag me in your finished projects if you would like to share. We would love to see the colors and projects you are making your stars for this fun time of year celebrating graduation and our wonderful teachers.
Find the pattern in the description of the video as well as in the Star Chart Pattern on Etsy, or here on Doily Designs.
The Evolution of the Riffle Edge: From Sketches to Fringe
Sometimes a design needs a bit of time. If you follow Doily Designs, you might recall the Riffle Edge, seen in things like the Americana Star Coaster. It started years ago as a simple riffle stitch that I shared a hand drawn graph for here on the Blog in 2025, to show how those foundation stitches come together.
Lately, I have been pushing the boundaries of what this stitch can do, and am moving away from the standard border and leaning into a longer dramatic fringe style, like seen on this Boho Granny American Flag.
Why is it different?
When I first put the word out into the world around 2012, this elongated version created a new texture today that I hadn't seen then or now anywhere else with my weird loopy stitch seen below on a doily in 2012 with the creation of the Riffle Edge.
The core of my original design is still in the loopy fringe style that makes it's statement.
It has been a slow burn for four plus years of refining this stitch to get it to what ifs to real possibilities and a polished version.
I will admit, finding the focus to get this all down on paper (and screen) has not been easy lately, but seeing how this fringe hangs and moves makes the process worth it. Whether you are a fan of the original shorter version or you are ready for this new longer look, I can't wait to see how you use it!
It has recently come to my attention that not everyone knows how to make fringe, so I will be adding Fringe videos as I am able. For now, more Riffle Edge Fringe π π
This is one of my favorite Crochet Joins. If you are looking for a crochet joining technique, and then you may find one of these joins very useful. You will also see both the Slst Join & Sc Join in a lot of my crochet projects and patterns.
Slst Join:
This quick and easy top slip stitch crochet join comes in handy, for when you want your squares close together, and not spaced too far apart, as well as creating a beautiful, flat look.
Watch the video to see how I crochet the top Slst Join.
So simple and so quick. π
Slst Join:
With yarn in the back of your work, insert hook in Blo of both pieces (make sure work is facing right side up/lined up), YO, pull yarn thru all 3 loops on your hook. Repeat as needed for top Slst Join.
I owe a big shout out and 'Thank you' to crochetpedie for sharing this wonderful and useful crochet join, as well as the always beautiful Celtic Join that you may recall me sharing in the past, as it is my Top Favorite Crochet Join. Click on the links in this paragraph to take you to crochetpedie for more types and tutorials for crochet joining.
Top Sc Join (Single Crochet Join):
Watch the video below to see how to do the Sc Join.
Brief explanation of Sc Join (Single Crochet Join):
With yarn in back, and pieces tog, ins in one side and the other, YO, pull yarn thru 2 ups, YO, pull thru 2 loops on hook. Repeat, (yarn in back) ins in one side and then the other piece, YO, pull thru 2, YO, pull thru 2 lps.
Easter is just around the corner, and if you are anything like me, you are looking for ways to make the holiday a little more sustainable, and a lot more handmade. There is something special about a gift that does not end up in the trash five minutes after the egg hunt is over.
These Reusable Crochet Easter Egg Bags are the perfect solution. They are not just gift wrap, they are a keepsake. Whether you are filling them with treats, tiny toys, or even a special crystal or stone, even 'yarn confetti' will work, and they will add a layer of 'magic' that plastic eggs just cannot match.
Why you will love making these:
They are Eco Friendly: Skip the plastic this year and give a gift that can be used year after year. Quick &
Quick & Satisfying Project: Just like my recent Crochet Cross Pattern, these are designed to be a one sitting project. You can whip up a doze while watching your favorite movie.
Versatile Pattern: They make great party favors, classroom gifts, or even a little pouch necklace for the kiddos. Make with ears for fun Bunny Bags.
With Mr Flowers™ Arrange Your Own Bouquet Flower Crochet Pattern has multiple flowers to choose from to create Bouquet Coasters, Dishcloths & Doilies, or larger if you feel adventurous!
Before learning the Magic Ring .... my crochet projects tended to have large gaping holes. One of the biggest was the one seen in this Giant Crochet Doily Rug
And if you are thinking that maybe it is because it is a large project with lots of large holes, this is not the only reason. Take a closer look at some of my other crochet from 2012 before I learned the Magic Ring, and my one of my first intricate Doily Earring Patterns, again, before I had heard of the Magic Ring....
While it isn't horrible, I much prefer a tighter center, now that I know of the Magic Ring, and its many wonderful uses.
As well as these other Doily Earrings from 2012 as well. Do you not agree they would be a lot better without the center hole? What is that thing in the middle?
Too many times I have heard people complaining about the Magic Ring and asking me if there was an alternative for my patterns. While there is, I still strongly suggest the Magic Ring. In several of my patterns the Magic Ring is a must!
If you are unfamiliar with the Magic Ring, you can take a look at my video tutorial on Doily Designs Youtube.
Magic Oval :) Newly Released Pattern, was a great Father's Day Gift last year ;)
Magic Oval takes place of the Chain Oval, that can sometimes leave holes in the center of your crochet ovals. This new fun pattern is great for all OVAL projects, like Bags, Placemats, Coasters and more.
Poker Placemat Edition ♠️♥️♣️♦️
Thank you for stopping by.
Share in the comments what was one technique that changed your crochet?
Some Special Stitches are uses for the Magic Oval, so be sure to check out my YouTube Channel to find out how to do any of the stitches that are giving you problems. As well as the new Magic Oval Tutorial just released.
Crochet Magic Oval can be used as a decorative placemats and matching coasters.
Magic Oval creates an oval center that does not have the usual oval 'hole' on the ends you find with Chain Ovals (ovals that begin with a chain stitch).
I like to use this on bag bottoms as well as for small oval coasters.
Use to add to other crochet creations.
Say Goodbye to those end Gaps in your Ovals!
Magic Oval is a Crochet Game Changer!!
If you have ever crocheted an oval for a bag bottom or cute placemat, you probably already know about the dreaded holes that can form in the ends of the chain.
Usually, when we work around a foundation chain to create an oval, the ends can stretch out, leaving unsightly gaps at either side.
Enter: The Magic Oval πͺ ✨
This technique is a total game saver for crocheters who want a denser, seamless finish. It creates a solid center without the usual oval 'hole' on the ends, giving your projects a professional, boutique quality look.
Why you will Love the Magic Oval
The beauty of this method lies in its versatility. Because it creates such a sturdy and clean start, you can use it as the foundation for almost anything that begins with an oval. I find myself reaching for this technique constantly.
My Favorite Ways to Use It:
Small Coasters: Perfect for that minimalist, clean aesthetic on your coffee table.
Home Decor: It is the ideal start for oval placemats, doilies and even rugs.
Bag Bottoms: It provides a strong, gap-free base that can support the weight of your items without stretching.
Hybrid Creations: Use it as a base to add to other crochet creations, like decorative patches or designs.
One Technique, Endless Applications
The Magic Oval isn't just for one specific pattern, it is a foundational skill that opens up a world of possibilities. Once you master the center, you can keep growing your stitches to create:
Elegant table runners.
Sturdy market totes.
Oval shaped stuffed plushies.
Decorative mats for your plants and plates.
Pro Tip: When using the magic oval for bag bottoms, I recommend using a slightly smaller hook than your yarn calls for to make the base even more rigid and durable.
What is Next?
Now that you know why the magic oval is so essential, are you ready to see how it's done?
Whether you are a seasoned pro or a beginner looking to level up, this technique will quickly become a staple in your crochet toolkit.
Updated pattern with new Magic Leaves for Magic Flowers!
The Magic Flower Pencil Topper is a fun and creative way to add a touch of nature to your writing tools!
6 Magic Flower designs to choose from in this pattern.
Customize your own blooming pencil or pen with the 3 distinct flower variations and various sizes of leaves. Whether you're working with a standard big pen or a #2 pencil, this topper is designed to fit perfectly.
The best part? You can easily take it off and on, so you can switch up your style whenever you like. Choose from a variety of colors to match your mood and create a unique flower arrangement that's all your own.
Super simple and quick chain rose. Fun pattern gives you the No Wilt Rose Design, sharing my secrets here shhhh! With this simple trick, your rose leaves will stay perky and beautiful.
Pattern uses worsted weight acrylic yarn.
Make several to create a beautiful bought in no time with the Chain Rose and Leaf Pattern.
If you've ever been frustrated by droopy crochet flowers, your going to love my secret to a perky, long lasting rose.
This pattern is designed to be quick and easy, making it a great project for crocheters of all skill levels. With just a few simple stitches, you will be able to create these beautiful, dimensional roses in no time.
Crochet phone pouch for glasses, phones, and more. New added Apple design, with more crochet phone tote ideas! 2 Pattern Package, Easy Crochet Pattern.
I am thrilled to be finally long awaited pattern for the Magic Flower collection. Today I have launched the standalone Magic Flower Jewelry pattern, and it's perfect for anyone looking to make a quick and easy crochet flower for use with more than just jewelry.
Instand PDF Pattern Download on Etsy: Crochet Cross Pattern
Dragon Tear, Jeweled Crochet Cross Pattern.
Beautiful Cross to crochet for home decor, wreath add on, or gifts.
2 Border Choices with Simple, and Wobble Border (Small Shell Edges), to choose from.
These quick and easy crochet Crosses are filled with spirit and joy.
You can use any hook from micro to jumbo, just use corresponding yarn size for best results, and expect Cross size to correspond. Approximate sizes are;
Hook/Yarn/Size
* Size 9, Thread, 5 x 4 in
* E/Size 4, WW, 10.5 x 8 in
* G/Size 4, WW, 13 x 10.5 in
* N/Size 5, Bulky, 20 x 15 in
Crochet and share a Cross this Easter, and Praise the Lord!