Matt Spiers
Digital Assistant, Gathered
Matt Spiers is an artist and founding editor of Gathered.how. What started as a hobby over a decade ago led to Matt developing a passion for crochet (which led to a career with Simply Crochet magazine). Matt now dabbles in all sorts of creative past-times, everything from music production to gardening to whittling – he's an all-round craft master.
Recent articles by Matt Spiers
Top children's crochet characters from books and TV
From timeless stories to modern day stars, we take a look at some of our favourite amigurumi patterns of children's crochet characters!
Free crochet whale pattern
Take a trip into the deep with this super-cute free amigurumi whale crochet pattern!
Free crochet flower coaster tutorial
Use Yvonne Eijkenduijn's free crochet flower coaster pattern to make yourself some pretty coasters that are perfect for afternoon tea.
Get creative with these 25 crochet hat patterns
No matter the season or how experienced you are, there’s a massive range of crochet hat patterns for you to make!
How to crochet a bow and make a bow tie
If you're looking for a weekend crochet project we've got just the tutorial for you. Learn how to make a crochet bow and transform it into a bow tie!
How to join granny squares
Check out our tutorial which includes 5 different crochet joining techniques for how to join granny squares together.
Free puff stitch crochet bauble pattern
Need a last minute Christmas gift? Or is your tree missing that little something special? Well, we’ve got the perfect free crochet bauble pattern for you!
15 of the best crochet sock patterns for this winter
Treat your feet to some new crochet socks in a range of styles with our pick of the top crochet sock patterns!
19 Tunisian Crochet patterns to try today
Try something different with our pick of our favourite Tunisian crochet patterns
40 things to make with a granny square
Not sure what to do with granny squares? Then check out our favourite granny square projects – from cosy footwear to vintage kitchen chic.
11 snuggly granny square blanket patterns to make this weekend
You can’t beat a granny square blanket for a classic crochet project. Here’s 10 free crochet patterns to inspire your next make!
30+ Free Granny Square Patterns
Whether you want to learn how to crochet a Granny Square, or something more challenging, here's our collection of free crochet Granny Square patterns!
Colourful crochet snake pattern with step-by-step guide
No need to be afraid – this little amigurumi snake only wants to be your friend!
43 crochet Christmas gifts for every age!
You don’t have to spend loads on presents this year, not when you can make your own special Christmas crochet gifts!
19 best crochet kits in 2025 for beginners & pros
From crochet kits for beginners to entertaining projects for experienced crocheters, everybody loves a fun crochet kit!
16 Harry Potter crochet kits, hooks and patterns we love
Hook up some crochet fun with our favourite Harry Potter crochet supplies to turn your craft stash from muggle to magical.
17 free autumn crochet patterns you'll fall in love with
Whether you're celebrating Thanksgiving or just after some awesome autumn crochet makes, here's our favourite free fall crochet patterns!
25 free crochet borders and crochet edging patterns
Find the perfect crochet border pattern to finish off your project - nothing beats a bit of fancy crochet edging!
Free flower headband crochet pattern
Feel the flower power with this fab festival-style floral crown crochet pattern!
How to crochet a triangle
Triangles are a quick and easy shape to crochet, so we're going to show you how to crochet a triangle in two different ways!
Crochet abbreviations and UK to US crochet terms
Here are all of the crochet abbreviations and crochet conversion charts to help you understand most crochet patterns, including those that we feature in Simply Crochet magazine.
How to crochet a granny square
Use our step-by-step guide to learn how to make a granny square – even if you've never picked up a crochet hook before!
Over 60 Christmas Crochet Patterns for 2025!
It’s time for festive fun with our huge selection of free crochet patterns for Christmas! From crochet Christmas decorations to wonderful gift ideas, this is your go-to crochet Christmas hub.
Best sewing machines 2025: An expert guide
We’ve gathered the best of the best: everything you need to know before purchasing your next, or first-ever, sewing machine.
