Couture Crochet Workshop- A Book Review

This book is a recent release. I had been kinda warned off it by a friend who knows that I’m not only not mathematical, I’m almost innumerate (defined as: lacking knowledge and understanding of mathematical concepts and methods). Okay, I can balance my checkbook and I do keep the books for my husband’s business and for my own business. But, I don’t like it. I don’t like numbers. I thought this book would not only be over my head, but would likely be a snooze for me.

Boy, was I wrong! I love this book. Lily Chin has scored again, IMO. The reason this book works for me when other design books have not is that Chin uses lots of schematics to demonstrate how to accomplish proper fit and drape of garments.

The same friend who had warned me off the book was not surprised that I like this book when she later learned that I had a pretty extensive background in sewing garments (and quilting). The use of sewing-pattern-like schematics makes such sense to me. I am able to see and understand exactly the techniques that Lily Chin uses in her design process. Designing and constructing garments is no longer something that I will require a lot of crochet patterns for. With this book in hand, I think I can design and crochet my own garments.

To that end, I have crocheted the entire body of a sweater. I have only the sleeves to make now. Then, I have to join the components together. But measuring and gaugeing make more sense now and I feel confident that I can do this on my own – well, with the help of Lily Chin and this book.

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.

Have you read?