Looking for something to lift your mood during these dark and rainy winter days? A little ray of sunshine is peeking thought the clouds in the form of Crochet Crush by Molla Mills.

This book is not only bursting with colour but contains 23 crochet patterns for homewares and accessories. All in Molla Mills distinctive graphic style, inspired by her travels. Inside are blankets, rugs and bags made up of stripes, circles and fun flower motifs. Molla takes crochet to the next level by creating modern designs that are also useable and fun to make. Take the bags for example that are finished off with leather straps and a clasp which give them a professional and contemporary twist.

Lets take a closer look at some of the projects inside with some possible yarn suggestions.

Aita blanket - This fun and cosy blanket features a grid of stripes of different thicknesses reminiscent of gingham. Worked back and forth in double crochet stitches the unused yarn is carried inside the visible stitches throughout the work. The blanket is edged in a fringe which adds a bit of whimsy to the regimented lines. I would crochet this in The Fibre Co Cumbria for a blanket you could also use as a cosy wrap.

Kaari Shawl - I love the bold wavy motif on this shawl. I also like how the tassels match the stripes which are created by cutting long tails of yarn after working a row. Single rows of double crochet are worked to build up the design. I would try this in Nua Worsted which would give a satisfying vintage feel to this design.

Puolikas Shoulder Bag - This is the cutest little bag with a tuck lock and a simple tied leather strap. The graphic sixties inspired design would look great in any colours. Using single crochet stitches and carrying the unused yarn along inside the stitch. Bag and lid are worked separately and joined together at the end. I would try this in Växbo Lin's Lingarn.

Mansikka Pocket - This sweet little bag has a repeating 3D flower motif worked in wool. Double crochet stitches are worked in rounds and the flowers are created using bobble stitches. I would use Växbo Lin's Lingarn for the body and then something like the white undyed G-uld Alpaca and dyed G-uld Alpaca for the flowers.