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Cherry Orchard Squirrels & Spring Blossoms Bag Dispenser DIY

As I settled into my favorite chair, the gentle crunch of spring blossoms and the playful chatter of squirrels floated through my mind, inspiring a delightful new project. Introducing the CHERRY ORCHARD SQUIRRELS & SPRING BLOSSOMS — FREE CROCHET BAG DISPENSER 🧶! This whimsical pattern is not only a perfect way to show off your crochet skills but also a charming stash-buster for those vibrant yarns you've been saving. Measuring about 18 x 5.5 inches, this bag dispenser combines practicality with the joy of nature. Plus, it’s a fantastic introduction for beginners looking to enhance their crochet repertoire. Imagine creating lovely embellished squirrels and blossoms, all while crafting a functional piece for your home. Let’s dive into the world of color and texture while making something uniquely yours! Happy crocheting!
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Servings: 1 project
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Materials & Tools
  • Yarn
  • Worsted Cotton Yarn – Use a variety of colors including vanilla, cherry red, cinnamon, caramel, chestnut, ivory, ruby, blush, pink, rose, spring green, sage, and olive for vibrant combinations.
  • Hooks
  • 4 mm (G) Hook – Perfect for achieving the intended stitch gauge and creating a sturdy bag dispenser.
  • Notions
  • 3-inch Wooden Ring – Essential for hanging your bag dispenser beautifully.
  • Darning Needle – For weaving in ends and sewing embellishments securely.
  • Stuffing – To add shape and dimension to your adorable squirrels and other embellishments.
  • This delightful project offers a perfect blend of creativity and functionality with the Cherry Orchard Squirrels & Spring Blossoms — Free Crochet Bag Dispenser ! Happy crafting!

Method
 

Pattern Instructions
  1. Materials and tools prepared for this project.
  2. Row 1: Starting the Base
  3. Create a magic ring (MR) with vanilla yarn and work 6 single crochet (sc) into the ring. Pull the ring tight to close. In the next round, increase by working 2 sc in each stitch, totaling 12 stitches. Your work should begin to form a small circle. Continue increasing in this manner.
  4. Row 2: Expanding the Base
  5. For Row 2, work 1 sc in the first stitch, then inc (2 sc) in the next stitch, repeating this pattern around for a total of 18 stitches. Your base should begin to flatten out and expand, maintaining a nice circular shape. Mark your rounds for better tracking.
  6. Row 3: Further Expansion
  7. In Row 3, work 2 sc in each stitch around to increase again, reaching 36 stitches. Take care to keep your tension even; your base will start to take shape as a wider circle. Ensure the edges remain smooth as you continue to grow your base.
  8. Row 4: Continue Increasing
  9. Next, for Row 4, work 1 sc in the first stitch, followed by an inc (2 sc) in the next stitch, repeating around for a total of 54 stitches. Your circle should lay flat and be about 5.5 inches across at this point.
  10. Row 5: Starting the Mesh Section
  11. Begin the mesh section with Row 5 by switching to BLO (back loop only) sc in cherry red for one round around the entire base. You should have 54 stitches still. The change in color will mark a new design element.
  12. Row 6: Creating the Mesh
  13. Ch 4 (counts as dc + ch 1) and skip 1 stitch, then dc in the next stitch. Repeat this pattern (ch 1, skip 1, dc) around until you have created 27 spaces. Your mesh pattern will appear as beautiful gaps that align with the cherry orchard theme.
  14. Row 7: Expanding the Mesh
  15. For Row 7, join with a sl st into the first space. Then ch 4 and dc in the next space, continuing the pattern (ch 1, dc in next space) around. Keep the count steady as you complete two rounds until you reach about 2.5 inches in height in your mesh body.
  16. Step 8: Creating the Slot
  17. Mark 7 mesh spaces on the front side. Work to the first marker, then ch 15, skip the 7 marked spaces, and dc in the next available space. For the next round, work 7 dc separated by ch 1 across the bridge. This slot will allow the bags to dispense neatly.
  18. Step 9: Restoring the Spaces
  19. Make sure you restore the 27 spaces by adjusting the stitches back around the slot. Edge the slot carefully with cherry red sc to secure and define the opening, ensuring nothing obstructs the bags that will be dispensed below.
  20. Step 10: Continue the Body
  21. Continue the vanilla mesh pattern from here. Work in rounds until your bag measures approximately 17 inches in total height. The mesh should flow beautifully and feel sturdy as you progress to the edging.
  22. Step 11: Adding the Rim
  23. In the final rounds, work 2 sc in each mesh space to create a lovely rim, maintaining a total of 54 stitches. Follow this with three rounds of sc in cherry red, which will create a nice finishing texture on the top of your bag dispenser.
  24. Step 12: Finishing the Ring
  25. Now, turn to the upper back. Work 8 sc across for 12 rows to create a loop for your wooden ring. Ensure this section is sturdy enough to handle the weight when filled. Once done, slide your crocheted piece through the ring and sew securely.
  26. Step 13: Creating the Squirrels
  27. For the squirrels, start with a magic ring in cinnamon. Work 6 sc, and increase to 12. Then follow with (sc, inc) x 6 for 18, then sc 4 rounds. Finally, decrease to 6 stitches and stuff lightly before closing.
  28. Step 14: Assembling the Squirrels
  29. Create heads using the same process as for the bodies. Make bellies from ivory and flatten them. For ears and paws, crochet separately and stitch them all together. Sew the parts securely, then add smiles and eyes to bring your squirrels to life.
  30. Step 15: Making Cherries and Blossoms
  31. To create cherries, use ruby and follow the same increase pattern until you reach 12 stitches. Make 14 in total. For blossoms, follow the blush yarn instructions and assemble 12 flowers. Add white centers and yellow stamens for a charming detail.
  32. Step 16: Final Assembly
  33. Arrange all your pieces: 3 squirrels, 14 cherries, 12 blossoms, and other embellishments across the mesh. Sew each piece securely to the mesh posts, making sure to keep the space around the slot clear to allow for easy bag dispensing.
  34. Step 17: Finishing Touches
  35. Finally, weave in all ends and reinforce the wooden ring to ensure durability. Test the dispensing slot for function. Your CHERRY ORCHARD SQUIRRELS & SPRING BLOSSOMS — FREE CROCHET BAG DISPENSER is now complete, ready to add a whimsical touch to your home!

Notes

Gauge and sizing: Gauge & Sizing Notes Don't skip that gauge swatch! Checking your tension is vital for ensuring that your CHERRY ORCHARD SQUIRRELS & SPRING BLOSSOMS — FREE CROCHET BAG DISPENSER turns out just right. A good rule of thumb to follow is to create a tension swatch to see if you’re on track with your crochet gauge. If the base measures approximately 5.5 inches across with 54 stitches in your working round, you’re in the right ballpark. To adjust sizing—like making your bag dispenser wider—simply increase your starting chain in multiples of 6 . If your swatch ends up too small, don't worry! Try going up a hook size to match your desired measurements. Happy crocheting!
Tips: Helpful Tricks for Bag Dispenser Maintain Even Tension : Keep your stitches uniform throughout to avoid lumpy sections, especially in the mesh body. This ensures your CHERRY ORCHARD SQUIRRELS & SPRING BLOSSOMS — FREE CROCHET BAG DISPENSER has a smooth finish. Count Carefully : Always count your stitches after each round, especially after increasing. It's easy to lose track, but marking your rounds can help prevent mistakes. Secure Your Ends : Weave in all yarn ends neatly as you go to prevent fraying. This keeps your bag dispenser looking polished and professional. Check Slot Opening : Ensure the dispensing slot is clear and that you've edged it well with cherry red sc. This prevents blocks and allows bags to pull through smoothly. Stuff Gently : When stuffing your squirrels and other embellishments, use just enough to give them shape without making them too rigid. This keeps them cuddly and more lifelike!
Care instructions: How to Wash and Care for Your Bag Dispenser Machine Washing : Use cold water and a gentle cycle to preserve the colors and texture of your CHERRY ORCHARD SQUIRRELS & SPRING BLOSSOMS — FREE CROCHET BAG DISPENSER; avoid agitation to prevent felting. Hand Washing : For a more delicate approach, hand wash in cold water, gently squeezing the item to clean; refrain from wringing out excess water to maintain its shape. Drying/Blocking : Lay the bag dispenser flat on a clean, dry towel to air dry. Reshape as needed, and avoid direct sunlight to prevent fading of those vibrant hues. Storage : When not in use, store your bag dispenser in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight, to keep its colors bright and its structure intact.