If you arrived here because you’re joining in the Scheepjes Dawn Chorus CKAL (that’s a Knit- or Crochet-a-Long), a big welcome to the flock! What a privilege it was when Scheepjes asked me to be one of the three CKAL designers. The first design to be released, the Goldcrest Scarf (Kit 1), was created by Martin-up-North and over the last few weeks participants from all over the world have simultaneously been creating their own stunning scarves.
My Blue Tit Cushion design has just been revealed, with Kit 2 on sale today (the third songbird-themed project will be revealed later this year). If you want to get your hands on any of the Dawn Chorus kits, do support your local Scheepjes retailer and ask them to order one for you. We’ve got plenty of time until the Blue Tit Cushion CKAL begins on 17 April.
If you’re interested to know about my background in textiles, there’s a bit more in my bio. It’s been some time since I last posted here and that’s because I’ve spent my time designing and making. Frankly. I’ve been too busy to write as well! Lockdown gave me an opportunity; my workplace remained closed for months and that gave me the time to step up my designing. I wanted to know if I would still enjoy it if it was to become more than just a hobby. Turned out I love it – and here we are (just a bit excited!).
Over the last few years, I’ve designed almost 40 sewing, knitting and crochet projects for Scheepjes. Accessories and homeware are what I enjoy creating most. Here’s just a few to give you a taster.
You can follow my creative adventures on Instagram. I’ve just arrived on TikTok and there’s a little bit about me, plus links to more of my patterns on my Scheepjes Friends page.
Many of my patterns are published in Pretty Little Things. The printed publications are available to purchase from Scheepjes retailers and you can download the e-booklets free via Ravelry.
CKAL Timeline
NB All patterns and charts FREE. Patterns will be available in English (UK & US terms), Dutch & German.
- Week 1 (17 April): patterns for knitting or crocheting the cushion front published on Scheepjes.com. Links will also available via the official Scheepjes International Facebook Group and the Dutch Facebook group.
- Week 2: first part of the charts revealed and you can begin stitching your bird motif. Knitters will use duplicate stitch and crocheters will use cross stitch (tutorials will be available).
- Week 3: second part of charts revealed. Bird motif can be completed.
- Week 4: making back piece and constructing cushion.
Throughout the CKAL, I’ll be popping into the Facebook Groups to help you with any queries you might have about making your Blue Tit Cushion. The group moderators are there to help too, before, during and after the CKAL, so don’t worry if you work at a slower pace than others. We all have different amounts of quality crafting time available and different levels of skill and experience.
If you’re already a member of the Scheepjes Facebook groups, you’ll know that the moderators are undoubtedly the best crafting cheerleaders you could wish for. Between them, they have a wealth of knowledge and an endless supply of patience and encouragement.
Over the next few weeks, I’ll be posting information, tips and tricks that should help you to prepare for the CKAL, including visual tutorials on how to make the embroidery stitches. Next week I’ll be posting information on the differences between making the knitted and crocheted cushion. This should be helpful if you’re undecided which version to make.
If you have any questions before, during or after the CKAL, however big or small, don’t hesitate to reach out in the groups and we will do our best to help. We’re very excited to be starting this project together. Roll on April 17!
Bizzymitts 