Granny square Shopper

Today I’m sharing a throwback to a bag I designed years ago, long before we really started questioning our relationship with plastic. Back then in the UK, plastic bags were handed out freely, and with that came a kind of carelessness. We didn’t think twice about using them once and throwing them away. Looking back now, it’s clear that the impact of that mindset is something future generations will continue to deal with.

I wanted to create something that felt like a small, positive step in the other direction. Something practical, but also full of joy. I took a simple calico linen bag, removed the original handles, and began sewing on granny squares. I added yellow leather handles to lift it, and just like that, a cheerful, functional shopper was born.

It’s a bag I still use often, and every time I do, it makes me smile. It feels good knowing I’m making a small difference in my own way, while carrying something that reflects my love of colour and craft.

Lately, I’ve found myself drawn back to simpler projects. Big pieces have felt overwhelming, and instead I’ve been working more and more with squares. I know granny squares can sometimes be seen as basic or even boring, but for me they are anything but. They are portable, they make use of my yarn stash, and they allow me to create in a way that feels calm and manageable.

In a world that often feels chaotic and heavy, especially with everything going on around us, crochet becomes more than just making. It becomes a quiet space. A rhythm. A kind of refuge. Each square is a small moment of focus, a way to ground myself, and in its own way, a form of peace.

Pattern is available Ravelry

Stylecraft Insider

Exciting News!

I am absolutely thrilled to share that I’ve been invited to be a Stylecraft Insider! 🎉💖

The wonderful team at Stylecraft HQ has welcomed me into this amazing group of passionate crafters and creators who get to collaborate with Stylecraft Yarns. As an Insider, I’ll be sharing inspiring projects, patterns, and tips using their gorgeous yarns—helping to spark creativity and bring more yarny joy to our community!

I can't wait to take you along on this journey! Stay tuned for lots of colorful crochet goodness, fun collaborations, and behind-the-scenes peeks. Let’s make beautiful things together! 

#StylecraftInsider #CrochetLove #YarnMagic #StylecraftYarns #CrochetCommunity 

Why does tension matter in crochet .

Tension in crochet refers to how tightly or loosely you hold the yarn while making stitches. It is crucial because it affects the **size, appearance, and consistency** of your finished project. Here’s why tension matters:  

1. **Size and Fit** – If your tension is too tight, your project may end up smaller than intended. If it's too loose, it may be too big or misshapen. This is especially important for garments, where exact sizing is needed.  

2. **Consistency** – Uneven tension can lead to an inconsistent fabric, with some stitches looking tight and others loose, making the final piece look messy.  

3. **Drape and Texture** – Tighter tension creates a firmer fabric, while looser tension results in a softer, more flexible piece. The right tension depends on whether you want a sturdy bag or a flowy shawl.  

4. **Gauge Matching** – Many crochet patterns include a gauge (the number of stitches and rows in a certain measurement). If your tension doesn’t match the pattern’s gauge, your project may not turn out as expected.  

5. **Ease of Stitching** – If your tension is too tight, inserting the hook into stitches can be difficult. If it's too loose, stitches may become sloppy or unravel easily.  

6. **Yarn Usage** – Tighter stitches use more yarn, while looser stitches use less. If your tension is different from the pattern, you might run out of yarn too soon or have extra leftover.  

To maintain good tension, you can practice with different yarns and hooks, relax your hands, and check your gauge before starting a big project. Would you like tips on how to adjust your tension?

creating memories

Every stitch tells a story! I started this journey with my #josefblanket—originally made for one grandson—and now it’s lovingly embraced by his brother. Watching those little feet snuggle up in its warmth fills me with joy, knowing that each loop carries a piece of our family history.

I crafted this heirloom using a box of Scheepjes minis, pouring heart and soul into every row. It’s not just a cozy blanket—it’s a legacy in the making. I love imagining a future where, long after I’m gone, my grandchildren will wrap their babies in these same comforting stitches and keep our memories alive.

Ravelry

Ready to start your own family tradition? Click the link for the pattern and let your creativity weave generations of love.

#FamilyLegacy #HeirloomInTheMaking #CrochetMemories #HandmadeWithLove #CrochetHeirloom

Summer Time

Hello , I hope all is well in your neck of the woods . Here , in London it’s nice and warm but a bit cloudy . I’m not one for super hot days , as it means I have to adjust my crocheting. Nothing worse than making  a blanket or shawl in wool , god forbid if you use mohair . These are some of the fibers  that make me sweaty and uncomfortable whilst making it . 

So , when the weather is hot my projects of choice in the  involve fibers that have light lace weight , cottons . It also means I will have. Few projects that’s are made of motifs . The picture above is a hexagon project I’m hoping to make a top . I’m using all my odds and ends , I love a stash-busting project . . 

Cloudbusting Shawl by Helda Panagary

Find the pattern in 167 of Inside Crochet magazine.

This sea-blue shawl was inspired by childhood walks on beaches littered with baby clam shells.

MATERIALS

* Arastella Yarn 4ply, 100% Merino wool, 100g/400m/437yds

Shade: Under the Sea x 2 skeins

* 3.5mm hook

DESIGNER BIOGRAPHY

Helda is a passionate and creative crochet designer who can be found on Instagram as @heldap123.

Trying to blog

Hello all

After being hacked, yes my accounts have been hacked . I've had this  overwhelming feeling that I need to go back to where it all started for me and that was blogland . Ive realised i need to  commit to keeping records in my blog rather than using Instagram as my sole source of sharing . 

 It was a goood friend who told me that I was helping provide content  on Instagram , but what would happen if Instagram was hacked , or just became something I hate , or like a lot of places there are changes  that I can’t navigate. It gave me food for thought .

. A few friends have had their accounts hacked and it unsettled me  .when i first started using instagram @heldap123 it was simply a place to share one pic , no explaination needed . Then suddenly the pressure was on , adverts suddenly appeared for things I have zero interest in . People I followed disappeared under algorithms . 

At the same time it became a place of keyboard warriors ,who hide behind the screens and did hateful things , they said alot of hateful things not to me but it sours the taste in your mouth , when you read some comments . That’s not my style , so i continue to use the platform to simply share current makes but I’ve decided that along side Insta I’d try my hardest to post here . Not sure how that will go but I’m going to try .

, I have a love of all things floral . Spring fills me with hope . I sit with  eager anticipation of new beginning both in nature and in my life. I absolutely love blossoms , the streets of London are filled with all these wonderful cherry blossoms.

I love the blossoms so much that i decided to design my flutter shawl . I used yarn from Eden cottage Yarns . The lovely Victoria offered me yarn suppport and she put together a kit of 100g skein plus a packet of minis .The shawl is made first and then you add the flowers , branches , stems leaves on top . It has a border plus tassels . Every time when i wear this im filled with happiness . The beautiful images of spring fill my mind .pattern was originally published in Inside Crochet Magazine. if you want to see some more picture of my designs click  this  helda panagary designs its my ravelry page .

Fuchsia shawl

 

Hello 

, I hope you are safe and well. 

Goodness me I have absolutely no idea where time has flown by.  I find myself muttering these words more and more. Its quite startling to hear yourself sound more and more like your mother . Did you ever imagine that one day you'd end up wearing things the majority of the time for comfort,rather than style ???? .if this is you Its a sign you too are turning into your mum. Haha 

Im actually one of those who doesn't dread getting older its a privilege ,a fact that we have to be mindful about.  Covid has highlighted  how privileged we are at being able to work from home . I'm a very lucky lady ,my family so far are safe and symptom free . I light candles for those who have not been so lucky  .

Im sharing today my latest pattern published in this months Inside Crochet magazine.  Its called the Fuschia Shawl ,named after the beautiful pink flowers . I used yarn from The Fiber Company  canopy fingering weight in colourway Lantana . The deepest really rich pink . Such a joyful colour .

It is designed  asymmetrically and features a swarovski beaded border.  I love working with crystals,  I enjoy how the light catches it and sparkles and bring life to the design . 

I rarely wear my design as featured in this pic . I prefer to wear mine with the triangle wrapped around my neck with the pointy tip at the front the two other points are wrapped like arms giving me a hug

I also have a food column and I review a book every month.  Each month I have waived my fee and instead im paid in books that I donate to schools and libraries in a bid to help add diversity of characters in our  young people's lives .