Patterns, projects and techniques
This collection of washcloths comes to us via Patchworkposse.com. I am sure you will agree using these everyday is sure to bring a small to your face. Check out all the links on the Patchworkposse page and come back and tell us which one is your favorite. Do you make washcloths? Do you gift them or make them for yourself only? I would love to hear your feedback on just how popular these patterns are.
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.
I have a couple of “mindless” craft projects to do when I’m stuck in a seminar or something else in a large auditorium, and washcloths are at the top of my list. Having something to keep myself busy keeps me from wondering, “Is it over, yet?” but because they’re simple projects, I can work on them while paying attention to the presentation. This past weekend, I was at a convention, and on Friday, I knocked out 2 dishcloths (simply made with a linen stitch) that were both claimed by my table mates. If I had brought more yarn, I could have made at least a half a dozen!