I inherited my craftiness from both my parents. My Dad was a professional photographer for the Texas A&M University Veterinary Science School when he and my mom met. He is also a wood worker and furniture restorer when he has the time.
My mom made money as a stay-at-home mom when I was little by making crafts and selling them at local craft shows. Like me, she is interested in a wide array of crafty and creative things…she sews, she knits, she crochets, she paints, and more!
Earlier this year I used a pattern from the Whimsical Stitches amigurumi crochet patterns book by Lauren Espy to create a fun little succulent garden pin cushion for my mom.
I love Lauren Espy’s crochet pattern books. In fact, the first thing I ever crocheted from a pattern was the sunflower in a pot (followed by the daisy), which I gave to my sister and mom as Christmas presents (before thinking to photograph them). I also made a cute little jellyfish – I think it would make a great component for a baby’s mobile.
I have tons of Post-It notes stuck on the pages of both Whimsical Stitches and Crochet Café marking things I want to make.
The succulent garden was fairly easy to make. It is made in multiple pieces sewn together in the end. I used some birdseed to weigh down the bottom of keep it from tumping over. The succulent garden features a crocheted pot, dirt, Prickly Pear Cactus, Barrel Cactus, String of Pearls, and two Lady Finger Cacti.
Lauren’s books are filled with pictures and explanations that make reading a pattern so easy, complete beginners can do it – I can say that because I did it!
If you are wanting to learn how to crochet, or if you want to find cute patterns to make for friends or family, I highly recommend Lauren Espy’s books. They make great gifts too!
If you want a little more help reading crochet patterns, I wrote a post last year about how I taught myself to read them, and how I help myself keep count. You can find that popular post here.
Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. When you click on these links (and pictures), I may receive a small commission – as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. It will not cost you anything. I only share products and services that I truly believe in and think are great.