Latest blogs — Crafting with Beth

I’m rebuilding Crafting with Beth from the ground up! The website will look much the same for now, but big improvements are happening behind the scenes. As a one-person creative studio, I’m doing everything myself, so it will take time, patience, and a few challenges along the way. Thank you for being part of my journey!

A gentle review of the KnitPro Oasis interchangeable crochet hook starter set with wooden handle — a premium, practical set with an inline-style feel, ideal for crocheters who enjoy the control of Susan Bates hooks with modern interchangeable convenience.

Why do crocheters call some blankets “Afghans”? Explore the story behind the name, its link to Afghan textiles, and whether crochet Afghan blankets truly came from Afghanistan.

Rewinding your yarn before you start a project can prevent tangles, improve tension, and make your crochet or knitting smoother. Learn why it matters and how to do it step by step.

Using a larger crochet hook for shawls can completely transform your fabric. Learn how sizing up improves drape, softness, and stitch definition—especially when working with textured stitches like puff stitches.

How to join yarn using a surgeon’s knot Joining yarn neatly is one of those small skills that can make a big difference to your finished work. The surgeon’s knot is a simple technique that adds extra grip compared to a basic knot, making it useful when you need a quick and secure join. It’s […]

A thoughtful reflection on how crochet survived centuries of history, hardship, and change, and what its enduring presence can teach us about resilience, creativity, and continuing the work of those who came before.

Quilting rulers are packed with markings that can feel overwhelming. Learn how to read ruler markings, understand common lines and angles, and use them confidently for accurate cutting.

The right sewing machine needle improves stitch quality and reduces fabric damage. Learn which needles work best for quilting and patchwork, how sizes differ, and when to change them.

Cutting accuracy affects every stage of quilting. Learn the differences between rotary cutters and scissors, why rotary cutting is preferred for quilting, and when scissors still have a place.

Starching fabric is a simple step that can dramatically improve quilting accuracy. Learn why starching matters, when to use it, and how it helps with cutting, piecing, and pressing.

I just wanted to share how the woodland wildflower granny square blanket could look like. Full potential for different color variations

Printed fabrics can be deceptive when it comes to grain. Learn how to identify fabric grain in printed cottons, why prints can mislead, and how correct grain affects sewing accuracy.

Batting affects how a quilt looks, feels, and wears over time. Learn about common batting fibres, loft options, and how to choose the right batting for your quilting project.

Quilting cotton and craft cotton may look similar, but they behave very differently when sewing. Learn how they compare, why quilting cotton is preferred, and when craft cotton can still be used.

Choosing the right sewing thread matters more than many beginners realise. Learn the differences between cotton and polyester thread, their pros and cons, and when each works best.

Using the right hook size for your yarn makes crochet easier and more enjoyable. Learn how yarn weight and hook size work together, when to follow the label, and when to adjust.

Pre-washing fabric is a common sewing debate. Learn when pre-washing matters, when it can be skipped, and how fabric type and project choice affect the decision.

Choosing the right yarn can make crochet easier and more enjoyable. Learn about common yarn fibres, yarn weights, and how to select yarn that suits your project and skill level.

Quilting fabric choice affects accuracy, durability, and finish. Learn which fabric fibres work best for quilting, what GSM means, and how to choose the right weight for your quilt.

Crochet patterns can look confusing at first. Learn how to read crochet patterns step by step, understand common terms and abbreviations, and follow instructions with confidence.

Starting sewing is exciting, but choosing the wrong first project can be frustrating. Learn how to pick beginner-friendly sewing projects that build confidence and skills.

Crochet tension affects stitch size, fabric drape, and overall comfort. Learn what crochet tension is, why it matters, and practical ways to achieve even stitches without strain.

Pressing is a core sewing skill that improves accuracy, fit, and finish. Learn why pressing matters, how it differs from ironing, and simple pressing tips every sewist should know.

Crochet hook material and handle design can affect comfort, speed, and tension. Learn the differences between bamboo, aluminium, steel, wood, and ergonomic hooks—and when each works best.

Crocheters often use either the knife grip or pen grip. Learn how each method works, the benefits of both, and how to crochet comfortably while caring for your hands and wrists.

Starting sewing doesn’t require a full studio. Discover the essential sewing tools beginners really need, plus tips on choosing practical tools without overspending.

The head of a crochet hook quietly controls how yarn moves, stitches form, and hands work over time. Through experience, I’ve learned to recognise the engineering details that make a hook feel consistent, supportive, and worth growing old with — beyond branding or trends.

Clean, natural nails play an important role in close-up crochet tutorials. Learn why hand preparation, lighting, and camera focus matter when teaching crochet on video.

A scant quarter inch seam allowance can make a big difference in quilting accuracy. Learn what it is, why it matters, and whether it’s worth practising—especially for beginners.

Inline and tapered crochet hooks feel very different in the hand. Learn how they compare, what each type is best used for, and how to choose the right hook for your crochet style.

Cutting fabric on the grain is one of the most important sewing basics. Learn what fabric grain means, what goes wrong when you cut off-grain, and simple ways to check grain before you cut.

Welcome to Crafting with Beth, a creative space where crochet and sewing patterns meet calming tutorials and handmade inspiration. From yarn to fabric, this is a place to slow down, create with confidence, and enjoy every stitch.

Freshly wound yarn cakes are one of my favourite parts of starting a crochet or knitting project. The smooth edges, even tension, and clean finish make everything feel so calming and organised. Yarn lovers — does this bring you the same joy?

I just wanted to share with you connecting the typical/ original granny square in different manner. Instead of connecting them side to side, I am connecting them corner to corner. The granny square as we know of it just had a boost, an it is rather nice looking, and it gives the crocheter another skill […]

I have started a new granny square blanket using the Leonora Granny Square. This blanket will have a touch of rainbow, and is suitable for all ages.

A UK-based review of Women’s Institute Premium Acrylic DK yarn from Hobbycraft, exploring softness, tension, washability, colour options, and value for crochet.

You have found a nice stitch design and you want to make a tension square before adding the design to your project. Let’s say the stitch you are about to work on is the cable stitch, and you were prompted that the stitch requires multiple of 3 stitches + 2 + 1 for the base […]

I’m loving my new sets of Susan Bates crochet hooks. I know I’m a fan of Tulip crochet hooks 100% but I wanted to try an inline crochet. I will post a blog with regards to the 2 types of crochet hooks. If you are interested to get these hooks here is the link to […]

Have you tried doubling your yarn to create a yarn palette? Here, I started making a blanket using a corner to corner stitch. At the moment, using 2 colorways of yarn can make up to three color palette. I am using a #marrineryarn double knit. This yarn is suitable for 4mm crochet hook. But since […]

Have you ever seen a crochet pattern that follows a rule of 6? As I am following this pattern also called “Which Way Up Filet Pattern” , it is kind of confusing where to put the filet stitch is. I have come up with a solution and it turned out that there are 6 rules […]

This is a notice before you proceed, this page may contain ads, affiliates links when available. You can checkout my privacy policy on the footer below. Rusted Terracotta is inspired by a village where I was born making pots using clay. After setting it in high temperature, the kiln turns this gray clay into a […]

This is a notice before you proceed, this page may contain ads, affiliates links when available. You can checkout my privacy policy on the footer below. Here is new yarn palette inspiration I called Fishers of Men, inspired by the color of the sea and the sky with an accent of yellow representing the sun

Inspired by a flower that only only grows in the wild and cannot be domesticated. A yellow gold that forms the attractive center and white petals with a fierce sky blueish accent, and a shade of gray to balance the tone.

It is such a beauty to be able to crochet the Floral Granny Square in multiple variations of yarn color. If you are interested to get this pattern it is available on my blog free online. I am use to connecting squares as I go along, I think it looks more professional doing so.

Step by Step Instructions Crochet Stitches Standard: I am using the US/ International Standards You will need the following: Let’s get started Tension is very important, the yarn must be able to glide smoothly from your tension hand to the working hand, not too tight not too lose and follow the gauge of your hook.