Crochet

Patterns, projects and techniques

ADORN SUMMER 2007

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I’m a magazine junkie! There – the truth is out. I don’t subscribe to all of the magazines that I love, but I do check them out from the library, buy them at thrift stores and garage sales, and use my 40% off coupons at craft stores to purchase issues I just can’t live without.

This issue of Adorn Magazine has only two crochet projects in it, but it’s a great issue. One project is Amigurumi which doesn’t speak to me nearly the way it speaks to a lot of crocheters. Another project is entitled Sea Shawl (stats on page 86) and is one that is embellished with crochet on a premade shawl rather than crocheting a shawl from scratch. But, this thing is BEAUTIFUL! It’s a white shawl that is enhanced with glass faceted beads and topstitching with Filatura Di Crosa gold metallic yarn using an E hook and a J hook. You could use this idea on other projects but the shawl depicted in this issue of the magazine is especially charming.

This magazine is one of a new breed of magazine that is devoted to recycling, reusing, and repurposing items in your wardrobe, home, recycle bin, thrift store, mom’s closet, etc. Items for home decor, garments, shoes, toys, trinkets, jewelry – you name it, they find a way to update it with buttons (highlighted in this issue), thread, sewing, gems, beads, wallpaper, old jeans – the list is truly endless. This stuff is very inspirational for a thrift store junkie like me. Hope you can check out the mag at your local bookstore or library.

 

Comments

  1. Crochet, recycling and frugal-three of my passions. Thank you for mentioning this magazine. Your editorials are varied and very much enjoyed-Thanks for the effort you put into them

Have you read?

The Forest Valley Shawl – Crochet Pattern

This is one of those shawl patterns that feels instantly calming, even before you pick up a hook. The Forest Valley Shawl (After Party Pattern 23) by Scheepjes, available through Jimmy Beans Wool, has a very gentle, nature-inspired feel that really lives up to its name.

What I love about this design is how wearable it is. Some shawls are beautiful but awkward to style; this one feels practical in the best way. It drapes naturally, sits nicely on the shoulders, and works just as well for everyday wear as it does for something a little dressier. It’s the sort of piece you grab when the air cools in the evening and you don’t want anything heavy.

From a crochet perspective, this is a lovely “slow and steady” project. The stitch pattern has enough variation to keep your interest, but it’s not overly complicated. It’s very much the kind of crochet you can sink into — the sort that lets your mind wander while your hands keep moving. Perfect for quiet afternoons or evening crochet sessions.

Skill-wise, this one is best suited to confident beginners moving into intermediate territory. If you’re comfortable following a pattern and keeping your stitch count in check, you’ll enjoy this a lot. It’s also a great pattern for appreciating beautiful yarn — especially colourways that shift and flow, as the shawl really lets them shine.

Overall, the Forest Valley Shawl is one of those free crochet patterns that feels thoughtful and soothing. It’s wearable, relaxing to make, and finished with a look that feels timeless rather than trendy. If you enjoy shawls that are as comforting to crochet as they are to wear, this one is definitely worth bookmarking.