The red poppy is the symbol of Remembrance Day, celebrated in Commonwealth Nations and other European countries across the world on November 11. Many towns collaborated on poppy displays and “yarn bombing”. Over 1,000 volunteers created a stunning tribute on Southend Pier in Essex—110,000 crocheted poppies, spanning the entire 1.33-mile length of the world's longest pleasure pier. (Video) Another installation in Port Stanley, Canada had over 15,500 poppies made while a crimson cascade adorned the side of church in Oxfordshire.

The Merino wool industry is experiencing a significant resurgence, with demand hitting levels not seen in decades. Consumers are increasingly favoring natural fibers over synthetics for their comfort, performance, and sustainability, causing a major price increase in the Australian wool market. Industry projections indicate that the value of Merino wool could nearly double by 2033, reflecting a lasting shift toward sustainable textiles. (Read more: KnittingIndustry)

Caron® Special Edition Anniversary Cakes, launched exclusively at Michaels Stores and online this week. These jumbo yarn cakes feature over 1,000 yards of super bulky yarn in holiday-themed colorways like Frosted Fairytale, Gingerbread Forest, and Peppermint Plaid. Designed to complement modern Christmas décor—from blush-and-gold glam to classic reds and browns—the cakes are ideal for large blankets, stockings, and winter accessories. (Read more: RepeatCrafterMe)

Published by Insight Editions, this official Star Wars crochet pattern book offers more than just crafting instructions—it weaves in fascinating lore about each character and item. From beginner-friendly lightsabers to advanced character builds like Jawas and Darth Maul, the book caters to all skill levels while adding thoughtful context that enriches the crafting experience. (See more: Amazon)

With only 46 days until Christmas you’ve hopefully completed some of your projects.

Before you call them done, consider adding a few simple finishing touches.

In that moment when someone opens your handmade gift, you want them to gasp, not just smile politely. Adding those little finishing touches transforms your crochet from “that’s nice” into “wait, you MADE this?!”

Here’re some easy ways to make your gifts unforgettable:

Think of borders and edging like frames on a picture — they complete the look.

A simple crab stitch border takes maybe fifteen minutes, but the impact is huge. Picot edging or a contrasting color border can instantly turn a scarf or blanket from homemade to heirloom-quality with one extra step.

These small details bring texture and personality without adding hours to your project.

I’m always amazed how different a basic hat looks once I add a leather tag (extra points for personalized) or sew on a rustic button. Suddenly it feels like something from a boutique shop.

Add their initials in chain stitch to a blanket, or hand-stitch a tiny heart on a dishcloth.

Feeling fancy? Add beads or sequins to edges or tassels for a touch of sparkle. Weave ribbon or lace through blanket borders, or tie bundles of washcloths together with a matching bow.

Presentation matters as much as the gift itself. Skip the paper and use a crocheted gift bag they can reuse. Make a bow from scrap yarn, or wrap your gift in kraft paper with twine and a handmade tag.

Finishing touches aren’t just decoration. They’re the difference between good and unforgettable.

They show you care about every detail, make your work look professional, and they’re so much fun to experiment with.

Before you call that project “done,” ask yourself: What’s the one small thing that could make this gift extraordinary?

That’s your finishing touch. 🧡

A curated selection of useful (mostly) crochet-related articles and tools I’ve come across recently for you to explore. All links have been vetted! 🧡

IN STITCHES

WEAVING IN THE ENDS

Thanks for reading, and if you served in the military, I thank you this Veterans Day for your service and sacrifice! 🎖️

—Michelle 🧡

P.S. Reply to let me know how your holiday crocheting is going!