Crochet

Patterns, projects and techniques

NEW IDEAS IN CROCHET? A FEW IDEAS……

by

shoecovers.jpg

http://www.grittyknits.com/ViewPost911.aspx

Renew a favorite pair of scuffed up shoes using the clever ideas in the link above.

broomstick-tutorial.jpg

http://www.grittyknits.com/ViewEntry_broomsticklace.aspx

GET YOUR BROOMSTICKS OUT! Why not try a new technique? Better use a large knitting needle than an actual broomstick. I always knew I’d find a use for knitting needles! This is an especially good tutorial.
magicballswatch.jpg
http://upislandeggs.com/magicball.html

IF YOU’RE ADVENTUROUS, YOU NEED TO HAVE A MAGIC BALL. Create a scrumble – a freeform thingie. Have fun with it. There are NO rules. Add a bit each night when you’re eyes are crossing and you can’t follow a pattern. Add to the magic ball or scrumble every time you’ve finished a project and have leftover yarn.

Refer to this site for more info on freeform crochet:

http://www.freeformcrochet.com/

Comments

  1. A neighbor of mine whom I found out had passed away this year, taught me how to do the broom stick lace. I think I may still have the broom stick. I like out it turned out, but if I were to try it out again, I think i would need alittle more practice with it. When I did try it a few years ago, it came out alittle uneven, lol. But at least i tried, huh?

  2. Hello JD
    Please note the link you have for the magic ball is no longer working. I am very fond of this particular page (looks like a lady with a sense of humour (or humor!) and managed to track down her new addy:

    Yours in crochet.

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.