Crochet

Patterns, projects and techniques

Rustic Modern Crochet

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I had the opportunity to take my preview copy of this book to my local crochet club to show it off.  There was a huge tug-of-war over the book based solely on the cover photo.  Then, as each member got her hands on the book for herself, there were even more oohs and aaahs.  The titles says ‘rustic’ because the inspiration is nature – but the designs are deliciously sophisticated.

This is simply a stunning book full of stunning designs!  My favorites are actually not on the cover.  I am impressed with how author Yumiko Alexander uses really simple stitches and techniques to create textured, plush, elegant designs.  The extremely plush Lacy Shoals scarf is created by merely layering simple mesh pieces.  Color is key to the success of this particular design.

The Bridges topper is a very simple pairing of two oversized squares, creating an airy, individualistic garment perfect for Spring or Fall.  Seaflower is a shawl that’s all about the edging.  It’s aptly named and will be a big hit.  Sand Dollar is a sort of infinity shawl with a very special treatment at the twist.  Sea Urchin is a stylish cap that starts with a simple central motif at its crown, giving it an unusual but wearable shape.

Oh, there’s so much more!  There are 18 designs in this book and each is beautifully photographed, accompanied by a clear pattern and an easy-to-read chart.  Each specific yarn choice is named as well as its weight, making substitution easy and sure.
You’ll want to add this book to your crochet library.

Book Specs:

Rustic Modern Crochet by Yumiko Alexander

Interweave Press, 2013

Softback, 112 pages, many color photos and clear graphics

ISBN 9781596687363

$22.99 USD

Comments

  1. After reading your review, I purchased this book. Even if I do not make some of the items, they have stitch patterns I want to try. Most are unique designs. Love the way the author makes you feel that she is really there talking to you. I did go to the website dandoh.com/pattern-errata for the corrections. I am wondering what the crocheting on the sleeve of the sweater underneath the cover shawl is. Is it crochet on the sweater or a crocheted cuff bracelet? Love the look of it.

Have you read?

Crochet Christmas Dove Ornaments With a Printable Gift Poem

There is something especially lovely about a handmade gift that comes with a few thoughtful words. These crochet Christmas birds pair a folded yarn ornament with a decorative poem card, turning a little crochet project into a keepsake.

The design has a rounded head, a tiny embroidered eye and beak, and a forked tail. A broad overlapping section forms the wing, giving the bird that folded, origami-inspired appearance. It is a simple-looking shape with plenty of handmade charm.

A Crochet Bird That Doubles as a Gift Topper

What appeals to me most is the idea of using the bird twice. Tie it onto a wrapped present as a gift topper, then let the recipient hang it on their Christmas tree afterwards. The wrapping gets recycled, the ribbon goes into somebody’s “far too useful to throw away” drawer, and the bird becomes part of next year’s decorations.

Cream would be a lovely choice for a Christmas dove, while cranberry red, sage green and dusty blue offer a different seasonal look. Keeping the wing plain lets the crochet texture and folded layers stand out.

For a personalised crochet gift tag, an embroidered initial is a sweet addition. One small letter gives the ornament a purpose without needing to squeeze an entire name onto the wing.

The Printable Christmas Dove Card

The accompanying printable brings the gift together. Watercolour-style holly, evergreen branches, berries and gold accents frame the card, with space above the poem for attaching the crocheted bird.

The original Christmas poem shares wishes for peace, joy and love, then invites the recipient to hang the dove on their tree. There is also a “With love from” line, so the finished card feels like a complete little present.

I would print it on firm cardstock and attach the bird with a removable thread or ribbon loop. That way, the recipient can lift it off the card easily when it is time to decorate the tree.

It is a thoughtful Christmas gift concept, especially for crafters who enjoy making small decorations with a personal touch. The bird and poem card belong together: a little handmade ornament, a Christmas wish, and something to bring out again next December.