January & February Crochet Recap: Bookish Blankets, Bear Bags, and More!

It’s been a while, but I’m back with another monthly recap! January and February flew by, and while I didn’t get as much done as I’d hoped, I still made progress on some fun projects—both in crochet and reading. Sometimes it’s not about finishing as many things as possible but about enjoying the process, and that’s exactly what I’ve been focusing on these past couple of months.

So, let’s take a look at what I’ve been making and listening to!

🧶 WIPs & Finished Projects

📚 Book Genre Blanket (WIP)

This blanket has been one of my favorite projects to work on because it combines my love of reading and crochet! Each square represents a book genre based on a color-coded chart, and it’s been so fun to see it come together. I love the variety and how every book I read is literally weaving its way into this project.

🐻 Bear Bag (Finished!)

Yes, it has a face. Yes, it’s ridiculously cute. And yes, I love it! This was such a fun project to work on, and I’m so happy with how it turned out. It’s the perfect mix of practical and playful, and I know it’s going to get a lot of use.

🖤 Black Knit Tank Top (WIP - Resurrected from Last Summer)

I started this last summer with the intention of making something simple and versatile, but then I got distracted (as we all do). Now, I’m finally bringing it back to life! I am determined to finish it before the warm weather returns.

🌿 Tanjiro-Inspired Purse (WIP)

Inspired by Demon Slayer, this purse features the anime’s signature green-and-black checkered design. I’m still figuring out the final shape and details, but I love the idea of a cute, functional bag with a subtle (or not-so-subtle) fandom nod.

🧺 Chunky Basket & Throw Pillow Cover (Finished!)

Both of these were made using TLYarnCrafts patterns, and I love how they turned out! The chunky basket is perfect for storing yarn, and the throw pillow cover adds the perfect handmade touch to my home. These were super satisfying to make because they work up quickly and are both practical and decorative.

🎧 What I’ve Been Listening To

Crocheting and audiobooks go hand in hand, and these past couple of months, I’ve been deep in some amazing reads. Here’s what’s been keeping me company:

📖 Dawnshard and Rhythm of War by Brandon Sanderson – Continuing my journey through The Stormlight Archive has been both immersive and inspiring. Sanderson’s world-building is unmatched, and I love getting lost in these stories.

📖 A Little Life by Hanya Yanagihara – I made it about 60% through this one before making the decision to stop. It’s definitely a heavy read and although it is well-written and the characters have such emotional depth, it just not for me.

📖 East of Eden by John Steinbeck – A classic that’s both beautifully written and thought-provoking. This one was less heavy and I really enjoyed the storytelling.

📖 The Keeper of Lost Things by Ruth Hogan – This was such a charming, heartwarming read. It was the perfect balance to some of the more intense books I’ve been listening to.

📖 Emily Wilde’s Faerie Encyclopedia by Heather Fawcett – A whimsical, enchanting story that’s been a nice escape. It’s cozy, magical, and perfect for anyone who loves folklore and fantasy.

✨ Quick Crochet Tip: Start Small, Build Big ✨

If making a full-sized blanket feels overwhelming, start with squares! Granny squares, hexagons, or other small motifs are a great way to ease into a blanket project. You can work on them little by little, and before you know it, you’ll have enough to piece together a beautiful, handmade blanket—without the commitment of crocheting one giant piece from the start. Plus, it’s a great way to play with colors and textures before committing to a final design!

🌼 Looking Ahead: What’s Next?

Spring is just around the corner, and I’m already thinking about lighter, breezier projects for the warmer months. I also want to finish some of my WIPs before starting anything new (but let’s be real, that probably won’t happen 😆).

Thank you for following along with my crochet journey! Your support, kind words, and creativity always inspire me, and I can’t wait to see what we all create in the months ahead. Let me know in the comments what projects you’re working on, and I’ll see you next time!

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This pattern is for personal use only. The pattern and its photos may not be reproduced, distributed or resold, translated, published, altered, shared or posted in any way over the internet or offline.

You may sell finished items made from this pattern as long as it is handmade by you, not mass produced, giving the credit to Pops de Milk / Patricia Castillo as the designer. If you have any questions, you can email me at patricia@popsdemilk.com