Crochet

Patterns, projects and techniques

A SIMPLE SQUARE

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Thata hosts one of my very favorite blogs. She is SOOOO creative and is a prolific crocheter, despite having a family and job outside the home. She recently posted a ‘simple’ square of her own design. This square is so pretty and gives me many ideas to use it. Here’s the square:

thata-simple-square.jpg

With this single square as a motif, you could make a shawl, a bedspread, a tablecloth, a sweater or blouse, or a scarf. I love both its simplicity and its flexibility.

Thata is a fine example of a true crochet artist. I have been thinking a lot lately about the difference between ‘art’ and ‘craft’. One difference might be that a crafts person will take a pattern and make a lovely item using it. An artist will create his or her own design or use an existing pattern design as a jumping off place – a point of inspiration – to create something unique. I think Thata is an artist. There are plenty of other crochet artists out there. I like to think I’m one of them – but that’s based mostly on the fact that I use a pattern as a suggestion of how to create something rather than as a document written in stone. I’m more of a crafter than a crochet artist.

Comments

  1. Dear JD,

    Thank you so much for all your kindness and supportif words to me… I really appreciate it. You’re a great crocheter mam and have kindhearted to see others talents. I learn much from you too.

    Hugs,
    thata

  2. In the Sept. 06 issue of CROCHET! there is a pattern for crocheted heirloom baby blanket. It is a truly unique, personalized item with family history information crocheted into it. My grandmothers, address of home where I grew up, my siblings, my pets’ name, and a lot more family tree info is crocheted into this. My nephew has it and is the process of making it a wall hanging to pass to his son.

  3. Dorothy,
    Do you have a picture of this heirloom that we can post here? Would love to share your heirloom with everyone.
    jd

Have you read?

Crochet Eyelet Jacket Crochet Pattern That Feels Polished but Totally Wearable

Some crochet jackets can feel a bit bulky or overly “crafty,” but this Crochet Eyelet Jacket from Lana Grossa feels refreshingly modern and wearable. Available through Jimmy Beans Wool, this is the kind of pattern that bridges the gap between handmade and ready-to-wear in the best possible way.

What immediately caught my eye is the eyelet stitchwork. It gives the jacket structure without heaviness, and that little bit of openness makes it perfect for layering. This isn’t a coat you wear once or twice a year — it’s a light jacket you can throw on over a tee, a tank, or even a simple dress when you want a bit of warmth without committing to sleeves-and-scarf weather.

From a crochet point of view, this is a really satisfying garment to make. The eyelet pattern keeps things interesting, but it’s still rhythmic enough that you can settle into it and enjoy the process. It’s the kind of project that feels very “grown-up crochet” — thoughtful construction, clean lines, and a finish that looks intentional rather than homemade in a rushed way.

Skill-wise, this one sits nicely in the intermediate range. You’ll want to be comfortable reading stitch patterns and maintaining even tension, especially with the eyelet design, but nothing about it feels unnecessarily complicated. If you’ve made a garment or two before and enjoyed the process, this is a lovely next step.

What I really appreciate about this jacket is how versatile it feels. In a neutral yarn, it becomes a wardrobe staple. In something bolder, it turns into a statement piece without losing its elegance. It’s the kind of crochet you can wear out to lunch, to work, or just around the house and still feel pulled together.

If you enjoy crochet garments that feel stylish, practical, and genuinely wearable, this eyelet jacket is a beautiful pattern to have on hand — one of those projects that makes you feel very pleased with your crochet skills once it’s finished.

Alaric Crochet Duster Cardigan Pattern

Free Crochet Pattern – Suliac Cardigan