Crochet

Patterns, projects and techniques

CREATING CROCHET FABRIC Experimenting with Hook, Yarn, and Stitch

by

Dora Ohrenstein has created another resource book for our crochet libraries.  This one, true to its title, is full of experimentation, pictures to show the experiments and LOTS of inspiration for us to pick up our hooks and yarn to create some crochet fabric of our own!

After a few pages of the obligatory and informative yarn and hook information (especially helpful for beginners), Dora shows us her Ariadne Scarf.  This is a bit of confection made of medallions worked in a a variety of yarns which demonstrates the different drape and hand of these medallions not to mention the color effects.  The color selections alone are informative!  The sample shown has the medallions joined in graduated sizes.  A full, very detailed pattern with pictures and schematics makes accomplishing this scarf much easier than it looks.

From there, Dora explains how to develop crochet fabric, using information about yarn type, stitches, and texture to design fabric suitable for an array of projects.  She delves deeply into stitch patterns to demonstrate how they are affected by choices like pattern density, stitch, color, and technique.  Other topics include multistrand yarns, self-striping yarns, boucles, weaving (to create plaids) and swatching.

What you’ll absolutely love about this book – the projects!  The flattering Elvira jacket in Tunisian Simple Stitch, the unique Marguerite caps, and the charming Tosca Lace Tunic that is simply stunning.

All skill levels will find much of interest in this information-filled book.  Plus, there are fifteen projects that beg to be added to your WIM list!

BOOK SPECS:

143 pages, satin-finished softback cover, numerous color photos and schematics

creating Crochet Fabric

ISBN:  9781600593314

Lark Books Publisher

$22.95 USD List Price

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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.