Vintage Book Review- ‘BEAUTIFUL CROCHETED SWEATERS’

Thanks to Deb Weston for the cover pic o f this book: Looking for more sweaters to crochet? Check out these sweater Crochet patterns we found on Etsy.

The second book of the four oldies I’ve chosen to review here is Patricia Bevan’s ‘Beautiful Crocheted Sweaters’. Here’s a picture of my favorite sweater from this book:

This book contains patterns for 39 different sweaters – pullovers, cardigans, shells, vests. Not one is designed specifically for a man or boy, but there are a few that could be easily adapted for them. There is also the usual chapter covering the basic stitches and techniques and the special stitches used in the patterns. This would be a pretty good basic sweater book if you can only afford one. I found it is available in paperback at www.abebooks for $1.oo! Amazon and other vendors also have it in their stock. At no site could I find a picture of the book cover – and my camera can’t take a decent pic of it – but I’ll warn you that I thought the cover sweater was knitted!

The book was published in 1992, contains 168 pages, numerous color photos and has the ISBN: 0696023563 .

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.

Have you read?