In this Crochet & Chat, I cracked open the rest of the mystery eyes from my @Stacymakes advent calendar and let them totally boss me around—in the best way. I used each set of eyes as a little “prompt” to pick stash-busting projects and patterns I haven’t made before, which is honestly such a fun way to get out of a crochet rut. If you’ve got bins of chenille staring at you (same), this is a super cozy way to turn random leftovers into actual finished cuties. While I’m chatting and crocheting, I also talk through how I approach plushie pattern choices when I’m trying something new—especially when the “vibe” is decided by something as small as eye shape and color. I point you to a couple of my technique videos that help a ton for plushies (color changes/bobbles, and head tacking/weighted pellets), and I share the yarns I’m using and loving for that heirloom-quality, squishy finish. If you want low-pressure inspiration for stash busting plus some real-time plushie-making thoughts, this one’s for you.