FASCINATING ‘FASCINATOR’ – It’s Not Just For A Princess

Or, maybe it’s that this sweet, clever design will make anyone who wears it feel like a Princess. Kate and her kin do not have the market cornered on dressy head wear. Inside Crochet, Issue 18, June 2011 has a simple but elegant version they call ‘Wedding Fascinator’. It’s but one of many lovely patterns in this issue – the quality of crochet design we have come to expect from this UK publication.

WEDDING FASCINATOR INSIDE CROCHET #18

I am able to buy my copy of this magazine every month at Joann Fabric and Crafts which typically sells it for 10% off the list price of $9.99. I stopped in there today just to buy the mag. It’s always worth the $$ IMO. Yudu.com has an online version that is $4.99 per issue. That’s a real bargain.

Other enticing patterns in this issue include the DewDrop Scarf by Zoe Clements which is a Solomon’s Knot single skein beauty worked in Artyarns Beaded Mohair and Sequins, a truly stunning looking yarn, the cover Willow Camisole by Irene Strange which will definitely appeal to the twenty somethings, and Linda Permann’s Lace Skirt which is worked side to side. Also included are bibs, toys, shrugs and a bow-tie accented cap. Other articles place emphasis on color in fashion and, in the great minds think alike category, a nice article on beaded crochet – something I just blogged on.

I continue to be pleased by this magazine. I hope you are able to obtain a copy for yourself, either in print or online. I think you’ll find it to be a good value, filled with useful information and creative crochet designs.

Looking for more Shrug patterns to crochet? Check out these Crochet patterns for Shrugs we found on Etsy as well as these books on Amazon.

There is something especially charming about a vintage baby dress pattern, and this Crocheted Cutie Dress #3112 has all the details that make older crochet designs so appealing.

The dress features a neatly shaped bodice, short sleeves, contrast stripes and a full lace skirt with a scalloped finish. It has that classic heirloom look without feeling overly formal, which makes it suitable for birthdays, family photos, baby showers or simply as a special handmade outfit.

One of the nicest things about this design is the balance between the structured upper section and the much softer, more decorative skirt. The bodice is worked in a simple repeating texture, while the skirt opens into a detailed lace pattern that gives the dress plenty of movement and fullness. The white trim around the neckline, sleeves and hem also helps define the shape beautifully.

The pattern includes instructions for sizes 1 and 2, with the second size shown in parentheses throughout. As with many vintage patterns, the sizing does not line up neatly with modern age labels, so it is important to check the gauge and finished proportions rather than relying on the size number alone.

This would be best suited to an intermediate crocheter, or a confident beginner who is comfortable reading traditional pattern instructions. The design uses chain stitches, single crochet, double crochet, treble crochet, colour changes, shaping, repeated lace sections and separate pieces that are sewn together during finishing.

The sleeves and collar are made separately and attached to the completed bodice. The back is finished with three buttons, giving the dress a practical opening while keeping the front clean and decorative.

The original version uses pink and white mercerized crochet cotton, but the design works beautifully in more modern combinations too. Sage and cream give it a soft botanical feel, lemon and white make it fresh and summery, while orange and ivory create a much warmer retro look.

Because the pattern was originally written for vintage crochet cotton and a steel hook, I would strongly recommend making a gauge swatch before beginning. Modern threads and hook-sizing systems can vary, and the bodice needs to fit correctly before the lace skirt is added.

The professionally reformatted PDF is much easier to follow than an unedited scan. It keeps the original stitch counts and construction while improving spacing and readability. It also includes a modern mockup and the original vintage reference image, which is helpful when visualising the finished shape.

Overall, this is a lovely pattern for anyone who enjoys making vintage-inspired baby clothes. The lace skirt is the real highlight, but the striped bodice and matching collar give the finished dress a polished, complete look.

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