There is nothing like a chill in the air to make me go running for my needles. I love to knit; I find it meditative. However, I don’t like to do anything too complex, so I stick to such simple projects as cushion covers, blankets and scarves.
One of my favorite accounts on Instagram—Rain and Bolt Knitwear—belongs to Lo, a retired hair stylist who has been knitting and crocheting for almost 50 years. Lo’s patterns are easy to follow, and she has projects for the home that I love, such as this little crocheted basket, which can be made in various sizes and colours.
If you’re experienced at crocheting or knitting (Lo has patterns for both), I recommend having a go at the pouf. There are a couple of versions to try, and they can be adapted in size to suit your living space.
Knitted pouf 
Crocheted pouf
Autumn is pumpkin season, so why not make a knitted one that may be placed anywhere in your home. Knit two sizes of pumpkin in contrasting colours and place them on your coffee table or sideboard along with some colourful leaves to create an autumn vignette.
These beginner-friendly placemats are made with cotton yarn (so washable) and will add a touch of warmth to your kitchen table or island (this pattern is listed as “The Placemat” on Etsy).
Lo has also created this mini basket pattern for our readers. It is a simple pattern that is not too difficult for a beginner.
Abbreviations
sc – single crochet
hdc – half double crochet
sl st – slip stitch
st(s) – stitch(es)
pm – place marker (beginning of round) move after each round
Magic ring or magic circle (check online for tutorial)
Gauge
8 single crochet stitches X 8 rows = 4” X 4”
Measurement
Approx. 3½” x 2½”
Materials Needed
Lion Brand – Thick & Quick yarn (30 yds.) or any super bulky yarn #6
6.5mm crochet hook
Stitch marker
Darning needle
Instructions
Bottom:
Begin with a magic circle (check online for tutorials on this technique).
Round 1: Work 8 sc into magic circle, pm. Do not join rounds. Pull yarn tail to tighten magic circle.
Round 2: Work 2 hdc in each sc (16 sts).
Round 3: Work *1 hdc in next st, then 2 hdc in following st. *repeat from *-* (24 sts)
Round 4: Work 1 sc (back loops only) for entire round.
Sides:
Round 5: Work *1 sc (through both loops) for entire round.
Round 6 – 8: repeat round 5.
Round 9: Sl st in back loop for entire round. End round and cut yarn.
Option: Sl st. in both loops for entire round.
Assembly:
Pull magic circle tight and weave in ends.
Your first basket is complete.
For other patterns from Rain and Bolt, please go to Lo’s Etsy page and use the code AHIC50 to obtain 50 per cent off the price of any pattern you desire.
Happy making! •
Etsy
www.etsy.com/ca/shop/RAINandBOLT?ref=seller-platform-mcnav
Ravelry
www.ravelry.com/designers/lo-shapera
Website
www.rainandbolt.com
