The Hot Water Bottle cover and the joy of making

In the last week I have seen many of my dear friends ~ quite a few of them I have taught to crochet or encouraged them to take up the craft. Chatting away there seems to be a universal agreement that those quiet moments of hooky creativity bring real peace and productive contemplation. How wonderful to be able to share that joy. Believe me when I say, I have never thrust my faithful craft upon them. I am a rather reluctant teacher. Teaching is rather outside my skill set. But I am happy to share my enthusiasm for the simple bliss of making something out of nothing, or rather something out of a bit a yarn and a little hook.

In the last month, I have continued to whittle down the shameful stash – perhaps I should invent a moniker for this pursuit – WDSS – that will do.

I have spotted a number of cute hot water bottle covers on the internet. In order to capture the concept, but not nick the pattern, I take a quick look at the image and then steal myself not to look at the inspiration again until my version has been created. Using the oddments from my Granny Ripple Blanket I completed this little cutie early in the New Year. With all the bad weather it has got lots of use.

For practicality I like the top of the bottle to be uncovered and a little button fastening at the back to make the cover easy to remove and wash. I must confess that I didn’t write up the pattern. Having a free hand is a little luxury when I am not designing.

The days are getting lighter now and it makes it a bit easier to take photos. But look in this photo Bernard has made his presence felt. Cheeky boy.

Finally I wanted to share the work of one a my most recent crochet pupils. Her first project, a Granny Square cushion.

Wonderful isn’t it? Look at the neatness. I am so excited by this image. I think that she is now on her fourth project. No stopping Mrs H now!