Craft Focus - Dec/Jan (Issue 76)

106 REASONS TO STOCK • Ideal as a gift • Great for animal lovers • Eye-catching appeal THE PRODUCT Available from Joseph Bear, this magnificent Highland cow crochet kit was designed by Barbara Donavan and retails at £34.99. The brand also supplies a range of charming canine designs including a cockerpoo, West Highland white, terrier, border collie, poodle, fox, schnauzer, boxer and husky. This fabulous bovine takes the form of a doorstop, and the collection also includes cushions and clutch bags. HOW TO USE IT Ideal for crocheters with a little experience, Brodie the Highland cow is supplied with King Cole Big Value Super Chunky yarn, stuffing and extras. I supplied my own 6mm crochet hook and rice to weigh down the bottom of the doorstop. While challenging, the instructions were clearly laid out and simple to follow. I worked on the base, head, nose, horns, arms and ears in turn before making up the finished design. The body can be filled with rice or sand, packed into a cotton bag to give weight. This is a great kit for those looking for a satisfying project and I’ll be gifting Brodie to a family member this Christmas. If you have a product you’d like us to test, get in touch via editor@craftfocus.com WOOLLY Tracy Voice tests Joseph Bear’s Highland cow doorstop kit wonder Joseph Bear +44 (0)1202 573 117 josephbear@hotmail.co.uk