Having been laid low with another bout of tonsillitis I thought I’d use my recuperation time to whip up a quick free pattern to share with you all. I made this while snuggling in bed drinking honeyed tea to soothe my throat. It’s a little homage to the bee for it’s lovely, medicinal honey and a nod to love in general, which kind of makes everything more bearable, even tonsillitis! I know it’s not long until Valentines day now, so if you’re stuck for a last minute present that has all the hallmarks of someone who cares enough to go that extra stitch or two then you could hook up this Honey Bee, Bumble bee and Love Heart in no time at all!

Click on the button below for the free pattern.

I’ve also included some labels to print out and decorate plus tips on making up the stick decorations to cheer up the odd plant pot or two. I’m planning on putting some bees on sticks in my herb pots on the kitchen windowsill to give my basil and parsley a fun pop of color before nature does the honors and furnishes me with the first daffodils of the year!

I made 14 hearts in shades of pink, red and grey yesterday, a fitting number, as Valentine’s Day is on the 14th. Although that’s just co-incidence – I ran out of time and energy or there would have been a lot more.  They’re very addictive and now, of course, I want to make them in rainbow colors too. It would be an appropriate project for a convalescing weekend, as once the pattern is memorized they just fly off the hook with out having to concentrate too much or for too long.

I’m already thinking of other uses for the little hearts, a garland or a wreath would be fun. Or they could be stuffed with pot pourri for a pretty sweet smelling addition to a clothes drawer. Or how about a heart and bee mobile? Key fobs, bag charms… I could go on, but I’m sure you’ve got plenty of ideas of your own. Whatever you make with the pattern I hope you have fun with it!