To be absolutely honest, I’ve never really been a big fan of Valentine’s Day.
Expressing your love for somebody on a particular day of the year, simply because convention demands it, seems a little contrived for my liking.
Whenever I have bought into the myth, I felt nothing but awkward – whether it’s giving a gift or receiving it.
You see, I’ve been one of those people standing in a card shop faced with the task of finding an overpriced piece of paper that will convey my feelings.
I’ve been one half of those uncomfortable couples you see every Valentine’s Day sitting in a restaurant amid forced romance.
I don’t like it. I don’t like it one little bit.
Then, one year I discovered handmade – whether it’s baking a cake for the one you love or knitting a garment that can’t be bought at any high street chain – the satisfaction that comes with knowing you’ve created something special is immense.
Now every Valentine’s Day I won’t give anything but handmade items, and my husband appreciates it all the more because he understands the time and effort involved in the making of them.
I’ve searched through the Rowan archives to share a few free Valentine’s inspired patterns with you all and encourage you to have a handmade Valentine’s Day this year.
First of all, there’s the Cridhe Gadget Cover by Anna Nikipirowicz using Rowan Felted Tweed in Rage, currently on sale for £5 at Baa Baa Brighouse. This lovely little pattern can be knitted in two sizes and is perfect for Ipads and tablets.
Secondly, why not brighten up your home for Valentine’s Day with this Valentines Hearts crochet pattern by Lisa Richardson. The pattern uses Rowan Pure Wool Worsted which is on a special three for £21 offer at Baa Baa Brighouse at the moment allowing you to mix and match colours as you wish and complement your home decor.
And with the leftover yarn, you could make a lovely Valentines Mug Snug, also a crochet pattern by Lisa Richardson using Rowan Pure Wool Worsted and Kidsilk Haze.
If you don’t see the colour you want, simply contact us and we’ll order it in for you.
So, have a Happy Handmade Valentine’s Day!
