Crochet

Patterns, projects and techniques

CONTEST WINNER ANNOUNCEMENT!!

by

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The winner of the batch of 7 digest sized pattern books for the contest which ended June 15, 2009 is……..

DRUM ROLL PLEASE

BECKY MERRILL OF MICHIGAN!!
I’ll be getting Becky’s package in the mail soon.  Becky’s favorite stitch is the Lacet Stitch.  I must admit to not being familiar with this one!  But, I’m going to check it out.

A note to several other entrants – I really feel the need to follow the rules.  I asked for one entry per email address.  Several people entered more than once.  That disqualified the person who was the first ‘winner’.  Second, you do actually have to list a stitch to be considered an entrant – not just send me your address or post a message on the blog with no stitch.  Finally, I enjoyed checking through all the email entries.  You’ve given me some new ideas of stitches I need to explore.

Thanks to all who entered!  Stay tuned for another similar contest in the next few weeks.  I’ve got a big stash to go through!

Comments

  1. Congratulations Becky! Thank you JD for those contests and your excellent blog.

  2. Thank you Jd! I can hardly wait to recieve my package to see what ideas I will get for my next project. Thanks again and keep up the great work.

  3. I recieved my pattern books that I won. Oh what a treasure trove this is! Thank you so much. There are quite a few projects that I can make for Christmas this year and I do believe that one of the ripple afghans will be for a graduation gift next spring. This was a wonderful package. I had just discovered this publication before entering your contest and now I know to keep my eyes open for them.
    I also wanted to tell you that the lacet stitch is used in Filet crochet. It is what I used for my dresser scarves in my bedroom. I just love the look of them.
    Thanks again, JD.

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.