I looooove novelty potholders. They are a fun way to add some whimsy to your kitchen and they make great gifts. Everyone has to eat and therefore everyone has to cook sometime. Even if it is only heating stuff up in the microwave.

I recently finished this adorable potholder that looks like a strawberry. When I found out a co-worker was planning on retiring I knew I wanted to make her something special. She and her husband had recently purchased a travel trailer and have plans to tour the US. I knew I wanted to make her something for the trailer and when I found out her only request for her going away party was a strawberry pie, I knew it had to be something with strawberries. I searched Ravelry and found this adorable Strawberry Potholder pattern by Doni Speigle .

Sticking with my goal to work from stash, the strawberry ended up pink rather than red.  I used Peaches & Creme Iced Strawberry (pink) and Rosemary (green).  The pattern worked up quick and was really easy.  I love how the leaves are worked into the potholder.  This requires some color changes and is the trickiest part of the pattern.  I decided to carry the strands on the wrong side. You could work over the unused yarn if you prefer. Either method will work but you do have to have experience with color changes in order to work the pattern.  I ended up using a key chain ring for the hanging ring.  I love how the stem curls.  Too cute!

Friday was Martha’s last day at work.   I wish her much happiness as she enjoys the slower pace of life as a retiree.

Potholder Crochet Patterns by Darleen Hopkins