Crochet

Patterns, projects and techniques

CRAFTS ‘N THINGS

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Crafts ‘n Things is one of my favorite general crafting magazines.  It always has the latest crafts, great pictures, and you can usually count on at least one or two crochet projects in it.  The April, 2009 issue is one of the best!  In this magazine are two wonderful crochet projects.

www.amosadvantage.com

www.amosadvantage.com

You can get a hint of one project on the cover.  It’s a beautiful pastel-tinted afghan created with very pretty motifs.  The other pattern is on page 146.  It’s called a Lacy Jacket but looks more like a shawl with elbow length sleeves and long V-shaped treatment on the lower edge.  It’s created from a lace stitch pattern that looks easy enough to master.

While it’s unlikely that I’ll ever actually crochet the afghan (remember, I’m the one who shies away from any project that starts with terminology like ‘make 48’ of anything!), you can bet I’m gonna go for the shawl.  It’s something I think I’ll enjoy making and wearing.

As usual these days, Crafts ‘n Things is full of scrapbooking projects, but there are also plenty of hand-sewing and beading goodies, too.  Can you tell I enjoy those?

There are several knit projects in this issue too.  So, if you’re a ‘switch-hitter’, this issue might be for you.  If it’s no longer available on the newsstand (I borrowed mine from the library.), you can order back issues at www.amosadvantage.com.

Comments

  1. this is the second blog I have read that mentions that great crochet piece on the cover of the April 2009 issue, but NOW WHERE in the mag, are the instructions…. 🙁 any idea how I could get them? the web site is of no help. 🙁

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.