Ring of Roses Sun Catcher

Ring of Roses Sun Catcher by LoisLeigh

Project Overview

The Ring of Roses Sun Catcher is a decorative crochet project designed by LoisLeigh Anderson for AndersonsCreations. This intermediate-level pattern creates an 8-inch round decorative piece that combines delicate crochet work with optional beading embellishments. When hung in a southern-facing window, the optional lead crystal drop creates rainbow light effects on surrounding walls and surfaces, making it an elegant year-round decoration that maintains its appearance without wilting or fading.

Construction Technique

This project utilizes traditional crochet techniques worked in the round using fine thread. The pattern employs back loop work throughout, which creates texture and visual interest in the finished piece. The design features a ring-based construction mounted on an 8-inch hoop ring typically used for dream catchers, providing structural support for the crocheted elements. The gauge is worked at 8 half double crochet stitches per inch horizontally and 5 rows per inch vertically, ensuring proper sizing and drape of the delicate thread work.

Stitches and Techniques

The Ring of Roses Sun Catcher employs several fundamental crochet stitches to create its layered floral design:

• Single Crochet (sc) - Used for shaping and structure in the rose components
• Half Double Crochet (hdc) - The primary stitch used throughout the pattern, including the hdc3tog decrease for shaping petals and leaves
• Double Crochet (dc) - Used for creating height variation and texture in the rose petals
• Treble Crochet (tr) - Employed for elongated stitches that add dimension to the design
• Back Loop Work - Applied throughout the pattern to create ridged texture and visual definition in the crocheted elements

Materials and Specifications

The Ring of Roses Sun Catcher is worked with bedspread weight cotton thread in size 10, a fine thread weight that creates delicate, detailed work suitable for decorative pieces. The pattern requires a Boye Steel Crochet hook size 1 (2.25mm), which is essential for working with fine thread and maintaining proper gauge.

Thread Colors and Yardage:

• Burgundy (or choice of large rose color) - 17 yards
• Dusty rose (or choice of small rose color) - 35 yards
• Kerry green (or choice of leaf color) - 14 yards
• White (background color) - 60 yards

Additional Materials:

• 8-inch hoop ring for dream catchers (provides the structural base)
• Optional lead crystal drop (creates rainbow effects when sunlight passes through)
• 24 gauge beading wire (for attaching optional embellishments)
• 2 head pins (for securing beads)
• 2 red heart-shaped beads or choice of alternative bead colors and shapes (optional decorative enhancement)

Difficulty Level and Finished Dimensions

This pattern is rated as intermediate skill level, making it suitable for crocheters who have mastered basic stitches and are ready to work with fine threads and more complex stitch combinations. The completed Ring of Roses Sun Catcher measures 8 inches (20.5 centimeters) in round diameter, making it an appropriately sized decorative accent for windows, shelves, or hanging displays.