Crochet

Patterns, projects and techniques

Book Review – Christmas Ornaments to Crochet: 31 Festive and Fun-to-Make Designs for a Handmade Holiday

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Small in size, but big in design and holiday fun, each of these small, portable projects can be created in no more than a few hours. Crochet one or two for quick handmade ornaments, or create one of Kreiner’s Christmas-themed ornament sets such as The North Pole, Christmas Goodies, Fun in the Snow, Baby’s First Christmas, Woodland Friends or even a full Nativity Series.

Christmas Ornaments to Crochet

Best of all, you can give your ornaments a personal touch with handmade ornament hangers and a variety of finishing tips and tricks. These beautifully detailed ornaments will make a prized addition to any tree, or be timeless, memorable gifts that will be treasured by family and friends for years to come.

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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.