Crochet

Patterns, projects and techniques

PASSION FOR FASHION

by

One of Leisure Arts’ most recent crochet offerings is Dora Ohrenstein’s Crochet Insider’s Passion for Fashion.  This book is a real joy.  The 23 designs in this book are all innovative and attractive.  There are several that are on my WIM list for the near future.

Why innovative?  The designer uses stitch techniques for shaping that are not often used in similar designs.  The Peacock Skirt makes clever use of ripples to create a flounce on the bottom and hip and waist shaping on the top.  The Mosaic Shells sleeveless top, worked from side to side has no actual shaping – but has visual shaping created by use of color and texture of the stitches.  And, my favorite, the Toreador Jacket, uses an interesting yoke assembly to create shaping.

Ms. Ohrenstein demonstrates her fascination with the Catherine’s Wheel stitch, emplying it in several projects in this book.  One of the most effective uses of this stitch is in the tiny, charming Preciosilla Purse where she turns the typical purse pattern on an angle to create an exquisite little bag.

Usually a lack of schematics will displease me.  But, in this book, each project is pictured from several angles and close enough to see stitch detail.  Thus the need for schematics is diminished.

Overall, this book is a must read.  I must say that, again, I wish it has been published with a spiral spine so the pages would lie flat for easier use.  But, I won’t hold that against it.  The only downside to this book is the choice of some colors in the designs.  My favorite pattern, the Toreador Jacket which is on my daughter’s Please Make It For Me Right Away List, is pictured in a strange and not particularly attractive color combo.  I hope it was the photog’s filter rather than the designer’s eye which created this problem – but I don’t really like the combination of violet and green matched with rust.  Doesn’t work for me.

Other than that, I’m all for this book.  It will have a prized place in my library.

SPECS:

Leisure Arts #4542, 2008 by Dora Ohrenstein

8.5X11 inch soft cover, 189 page, lots of color pictures

ISBN 13-9781601407909 OR 10-1601407904

List Price  $22.95 USD

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.