How can you instantly transform a space with a warm, inviting glow? It’s incredibly easy! Bring some colour and light into your garden, home and celebration space with a crochet lampion.
Lampion crochet patterns are becoming more popular and for good reason. Not only do lampions have aesthetic appeal, they can also be a low cost way of refreshing your indoor and outside decor.
This post will guide you on where to find the best crochet lampion patterns, including both free and paid options.
What Are Crochet Lampions?
Also known as lanterns or lampshades, crochet lampion patterns are decorative crochet designs used to create light covers or ornaments that resemble traditional lanterns or lampions. These patterns are popular for home decor and can be used in various ways, such as hanging lights, table lamps, or even festive decorations. You can use them to bring warmth and light into different settings both indoors or outside.
Shape and Structure
- Most crochet lampions are spherical or cylindrical to mimic the shape of traditional lanterns.
- Some patterns create flat decorative pieces, while others are three-dimensional and can be used as functional light covers.
Materials and Techniques
- Cotton yarn is commonly used because it’s durable, holds shape well, and is easy to work with. Thicker yarns can give a more solid structure, while finer yarns may create a more delicate appearance.
- Patterns often use basic crochet stitches like chains, single crochet (sc), and double crochet (dc).
- Many patterns incorporate openwork or lace-like stitches to allow light to pass through, creating a beautiful glow.
- Increases and decreases are techniques that are used to shape the lampion, creating rounded or tapered forms.
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Colour and Embellishment
- You can use a single colour for a classic look or multiple colours for a vibrant, festive boho appearance.
- Beads, tassels, or fringes can be added for extra decoration, especially for festive occasions.
Assembly
- Some lampion patterns are designed to fit over a rigid frame or wire structure to maintain their shape.
- Some crocheters use fabric stiffeners, glue, or sugar-water mixtures to harden the crochet fabric, allowing the lampion to hold its shape without a frame.
Lighting
- Since crochet is flammable, it’s important to use safe lighting options like LED fairy lights or battery-operated candles inside the lampion.
- Some people use crochet lampions purely as decorative items without lighting, letting them hang or stand as they are.
Why Make Crochet Lampions? Uses and Ideas
Here are some easy ideas for what and where you can use your crochet lantern
- Home Decor: Use as decorative lighting in living rooms, bedrooms, or patios.
- Festivals: Perfect for festive occasions like Diwali, Christmas, or weddings.
- Gifts: Handmade crochet lampions make thoughtful gifts for friends and family.
- Garden Decor: Hang them in gardens or balconies for a cozy, illuminated space.
Where to Find Crochet Lampion Patterns
- Ravelry
In a recent poll of my newsletter subscribers, Ravelry came out top for sourcing crochet patterns evidencing that this is one of the most popular online communities for crocheters and knitters, offering thousands of patterns, including lampions.
Search Tips: You can use keywords like “lampion,” “lantern,” or “lampshade” in the pattern search to find specific designs.
This gorgeous boho lantern design from Jill Ross’s Ravelry Store is a free PDF download.
Free and Paid Options: Both free and paid patterns are available, and you can filter your search based on your preference.
Ravelry’s advanced search filters make it easy to find exactly what you’re looking for, whether you prefer modern, minimal designs or intricate, vintage-inspired patterns.
- Etsy
In the same poll, the next most popular resource for my readers was Etsy.
Etsy is a marketplace filled with creative patterns, often unique and handcrafted by individual designers.
Variety: You’ll find a wide range of styles, from intricate lace designs to simple and modern patterns.
Purchase Patterns: Patterns on Etsy are paid, but they often come with detailed instructions and sometimes video tutorials. Crochet designers often have sales. If you find a lantern you love, don’t forget to favourite the design!
Buying your patterns from Etsy is a great way to support the crochet community. A big bonus is that the designer is often available if you get stuck and need help.
Reading the reviews will help you to choose the right pattern for you.
My Top Picks on Etsy
The final size of the lampion is 50cm length and 25cm width
The length of the lamp is 55 cm.
Suitable for experienced beginners.
- LoveCrafts
In my poll, LoveCrafts came in third. Although not as popular with my readers, this is a great resource for finding free PDFs and paid patterns.
Search Tips: Using keywords “lantern” and “lampshade” will find free and paid designs
- Magazines
It’s worth keeping an eye out for lampion patterns in crochet magazines.
If you’re in the UK, use the Libby app to access free magazines.
Another low-cost way of accessing magazines is through Readly. There are thousands of mags to access (not just crochet) and not just from the country where you’re based. You get up to 5 profiles so can share with family or friends. I’ve had my account for a few years and have never had a problem. Highly recommended. Get a free month to trial Readly! and see what you think.
- Blogs and Free Pattern Websites
Blogs were a popular choice in my poll for a free pattern resource. I’m sure you have your favourite designers but I would recommend searching in your preferred browser from time-to-time for different and unique patterns.
Here are a couple of popular free pattern websites for you to search for patterns:
Do you use a different free pattern website? Please leave a comment for others to find. Thanks!
Pinterest is a visual search platform that’s great for inspiration and finding free patterns.
Boards and Pins: Many users share their favourite crochet lampion patterns, linking to blogs or websites where you can download or follow the pattern.
DIY Ideas: You can also find ideas for embellishing or modifying existing patterns.
I searched for “lampion crochet patterns.” You can see the pins here.
- YouTube
Video Tutorials: If you prefer learning through videos, YouTube has numerous tutorials on crochet lampions such as this stunning Egyptian lantern with Nubian tassels.
Step-by-Step Instructions: Channels dedicated to crochet often provide detailed guidance, making it easier to follow along, especially if you’re new to crochet.
Search Terms: Try searching for “crochet lampion,” “crochet lantern,” or “crochet lampshade.”
- Yarn Company Websites
Lion Brand, Yarnspirations, WeCrochet and Cygnet are four yarn companies that offer free patterns on their websites.
Search their Databases: You can find a variety of patterns, including those for home decor like lampions.
Clicking the links below will take you to the crochet pattern database for free PDF downloads.
Tips for Choosing the Right Lampion Pattern for You
Skill Level: Make sure the pattern matches your skill level. There is nothing more frustrating than gathering together the materials and supplies and realising the pattern is too difficult for where you’re at now, and giving up. My advice is that if you’re not feeling confident with this project, start at a beginner/easy level for your first one before moving on to something more intricate.
Materials: Check what type of yarn and hook sizes the pattern recommends to make sure you have the right supplies. If you don’t have the correct weight yarn, use my stitch gauge converter to adjust your stitches.
Style and Size: Before you choose a lantern crochet pattern, consider where you are going to use it. Is it for hanging up, a table decoration, or outdoor use? This will make sure the style and size of the lampion will fit where you want it to.
Experiment with different patterns, colours, and embellishments from exploring the resources I’ve shared today. I hope you’re excited about starting your crochet lampion project!
I invite you to come and share your finished makes and favourite lampion patterns in my supportive Facebook Community.
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