If you've ever sat down with a skein of yarn and a hook, you know the magic of crochet. It's more than just loops and stitches—it's a mindful rhythm, a moment of calm, and a connection to tradition. But when you add other people into the mix? That’s when the true magic happens.
Crochet, like so many crafts, becomes exponentially more joyful when shared. There’s something special about gathering with others who get it—the satisfaction of finishing a perfect granny square, the excitement of choosing the next color combo, the comfort in knowing someone else has frogged miles of yarn too. Surrounding yourself with like-minded, creative people fosters friendship, inspiration, and a sense of belonging. It’s not just about the finished projects—it’s about the laughs, the shared snacks, the “let me show you how I did this” moments.
Whether you’re new to crochet or you've been stitching for decades, there’s something soul-nourishing about being in a room full of people who speak your creative language. Those who understand how good it feels to finally master a stitch pattern. Who celebrate fiber finds and cheer on WIPs like it’s a sporting event. It’s in those shared smiles, quiet nods, and bursts of laughter that we remember how deeply connected creativity and community really are.
And that’s exactly the spirit behind the upcoming Cozy Stitches: A Fall Crochet Retreat at Big Raven Farm. It’s a weekend designed not just to build your skills, but to fill your heart—with inspiration, friendship, and the kind of joy that only comes from doing what you love in the company of others who love it too.
The Art of Crochet as Expression
Beyond connection, crochet is a wildly expressive art form. Throughout our time together at the Big Raven Farm Crochet Retreat, we’ll dive into Art Through Crochet, exploring how this timeless craft can go beyond utility to become true personal expression.
Throughout our time together, we’ll have guided lessons and tutorials including:
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Tapestry Crochet – Master colorwork and learn how to paint with yarn. We’ll explore how to follow charts, manage multiple strands, and create jaw-dropping patterns and images using only yarn and hook.
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Appliqué Crochet – This technique lets you layer, embellish, and add dimension to your work in ways that are playful and totally unexpected. Think texture, movement, and a whole new level of creativity.
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As a special highlight, we’ll celebrate our shared love of crochet with a crochet item swap — a heartwarming way to exchange handmade creations and take home something crafted with care by another attendee!
Our retreat is a safe, encouraging space to try new things. Maybe you’ve been intimidated by colorwork, or you’ve never dared to deviate from a pattern. Here, you’ll have expert guidance, zero judgment, and a whole cheering squad of fellow fiber friends. We believe crochet should be as dynamic and imaginative as you are—and our retreat is designed to help you unlock your full creative potential.
A Weekend You Deserve
🗓️ October 23–26, 2025
📍 Big Raven Farm | Spring Grove, Minnesota (just a few hours from Minneapolis–St. Paul, Des Moines, Madison, and Milwaukee)
From Thursday afternoon through Sunday morning, we’re inviting you to experience something truly special: a Crochet Retreat at Big Raven Farm, hosted by the incredible Joleen Emery and the wildly talented Tamara Kelly (of Moogly fame!).
This is more than a workshop. It’s a getaway. A pause button. A gathering of kindred spirits who love yarn, creativity, and cozy vibes.
And there’s no better place for it than Big Raven Farm.
Welcome to Big Raven Farm
Tucked into the peaceful bluffs of southeastern Minnesota, Big Raven Farm is a creative sanctuary. Surrounded by the natural beauty of the Driftless Region, this lovingly restored country estate offers breathtaking views, wooded trails, star-filled skies, and the kind of stillness that makes your shoulders drop three inches the moment you arrive.
When you come to Big Raven Farm, you’re not just attending a retreat—you’re stepping into something magical. The main house is part gallery, part gathering space, part cozy haven. Every room features art created by host Joleen Emery, and you’ll be surrounded by color, creativity, and comfort in every corner.
During your stay, you’ll enjoy:
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Three nights of restful sleep in comfortable shared or private accommodations.
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Delicious, nourishing meals prepared by in-house chef (and co-host) Darin Warling—think fresh, satisfying, gourmet-without-the-fuss comfort food.
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Time to connect with new friends and fiber-lovers in a small group setting.
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Unstructured time to crochet, wander the land, or simply be still.
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Creative inspiration in every direction, from the views outside your window to the beautiful yarn in your hands.
It’s cozy. It’s quiet. It’s colorful. It’s exactly the kind of place you deserve to escape to.Our guests say it best—see their heartfelt reviews and reflections from time spent at Big Raven Farm.
Come for the Yarn, Stay for the Magic
Crochet is the thread. Connection is the fabric. And Big Raven Farm is where it all comes together.
This isn't just a class or a getaway—it’s a transformational experience. You’ll return home recharged, re-inspired, and full of new ideas (and maybe a few new WIPs!). You’ll deepen your skills, explore new techniques, and laugh until your cheeks hurt. And you’ll make the kind of friendships that outlast any project.
We believe that creativity blooms in community. That you deserve a break from your routine. That a weekend of yarn, good food, art, and joy can be more healing than you ever imagined.
So don’t wait.
👉 Reserve your spot now and give yourself the gift of time, space, and connection.
Spaces are limited—because meaningful connection happens best in small, intimate groups. We can’t wait to crochet with you.