Crochet

Patterns, projects and techniques

GET HOOKED – Crochet for Tweens

by

Here’s another book I ran across at the library.  Get Hooked

You’ve probably seen it too.  It’s aimed at ‘tweens’ beginning crocheters.  It’s a brightly illustrated book with lots of appealing photos.

Up front, the book contains useful information on hooks, yarns, fiber content, color selection, and pattern reading.  All that in just a few pages!  Whew!  There are also clear photos and illustrations of basic stitches and hand positions, rows, gauge, and finishing off.

The book contains a nice selection of simple projects that create appealing wearables and accessories – a belt, a kerchief, a chunky scarf, crocheted bracelets.  There’s even a cute skirt, a felted purse, and some of the ever-popular fingerless mitts (herein called punk gloves).  That’s quite a lot of goodies packed into a relatively small book.

I believe author Kim Werker has hit her mark with this book.  While the book was published in 2004. I still see a lot of the same projects pictured in more recently published books and magazines, proving that good designs will stand the test of time – even in a trendy market.  The range of projects in this book, coupled with the well-delivered technical information, make this a good reference for beginners from about age 9 through the teen years.  There are even a couple that I’ll likely make.  Can’t have too many of those punk gloves – which my grown kids loving call ‘biker chick gloves’ when mom wears them!

Specs:

Watson-Guptill Publisher

96 pages

ISBN 10:0823050920

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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.