Over the last week or so I've been finishing off a few projects - mainly little Christmas gifts and decorations. I've found the gentle rhythm of crocheting to be soothing amongst all the craziness that this time of year can bring.
I made these
little balls for my 4 month old baby for Christmas, using the pattern from Nicki Trench's book,
Cute and Easy Crochet (love, love, love, this book). I must admit that I was a bit hesitant at first - I'm not
sure why now because they were rather easy and fun. I put a bell in
each of them along with the stuffing, so they'll rattle when she shakes
them.

A few years ago our family decided not to buy Christmas presents for the
adults, but instead give the money we would have spent on a gift to a
charity of our choice. I always get a little something for my parents
though, so the children can give something instead of just receiving.
This year I thought I would crochet this little basket to put mum's gift
in rather than using wrapping - that way she can re-use the basket.
There are plenty of tutorials on the web for crochet baskets - for this
basket I did four rounds of half double crochet (US terms) for the base
and then 5 rows of half doubles and then two rows of double crochets,
finishing with a row of half doubles.

I found the pattern for this lovely little Christmas tree at
One dog Woof.
There are three different sizes which are made to go over wine and
champagne corks - how clever is that!! You could really jazz them up by
adding little coloured seed beads for lights, embroider little stars on them or use sticks for the trunk. I
plan on making a few more when I get a chance - wouldn't a cluster of
them look fabulous?? Maybe with a little deer standing amongst
them......
What have you been up to?? Have you been able to get some hooking time in amongst all the Christmas preparation??
Tina x