Crochet

Patterns, projects and techniques

I JOINED THE THRONGS

by

kim guzman crochet garden party wrap kimane designs
http://kimguzman.bravejournal.com/

I joined the throngs of my online crochet friends, and a few locals too, who have purchased Kim Guzman’s latest design, the Garden Party Wrap. This is not to be confused with the failed Garden Party Jacket that I recently attempted to crochet from the unintelligible (at least to me) pattern from Fiesta Yarns.

I printed off the pattern this morning and will choose some yarn from my stash later this evening – after my linedancing class. First things first!

My daughter’s closest friend just became engaged with a wedding planned for June, 2009. The bride wants my daughter to wear this dress as her Maid of Honor:

julia roberts’ my best friend’s wedding dress in lavender

in the same color, pale lavender, that Julia Roberts wore in ‘My Best Friend’s Wedding’.

I’m thinking that the Garden Party Wrap might be a nice little topper for this dress if the A/C becomes too much. What do you think??

If you are looking for more of our DIY Wedding ideas then check out our dedicated DIY Wedding blog.

Looking for more crochet patterns for weddings? Check out these designs we found on Etsy.

Comments

  2. Hmmm, that dress just might be too busy on top for that wrap…but worn down around the elbows would work! Yarn suggestions..I’m using Knitpicks Shimmer in the Galaxy colorway, allegedly, and it carries a pretty light purple in with some other purples.

    KRISR, as usual, your comments are so helpful.  I may rethink the entire shawl idea for this occasion.  It seems the bride wants the Jewel Box – a lovely, vintage green house in St. Louis’ Forest Park for those unfamiliar with the area. In that location, there will be no need for a shawl since it’s always sweltering and humid inside there.  I’ll check out the Galaxy colorway.  Sounds yummy.  THANKS!! jd

  3. It will make a nice accent piece, but if you’re looking for something to stave off the chill of an air conditioner, I don’t think that’s going to do it. And I don’t think it will hang well at the shoulders with that neckline.

  4. With all the comments my readers have posted here – and some have sent me privately – I think I’ll save Kim’s shawl for another use. If my daughter actually gets the Julia Roberts’ dress, we’ll look for another ‘look’ for a topper if it’s needed. THANKS for all the input. See, that’s why I asked!! jd

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.