Simple Fresh Crochet Love

This new book takes a truly fresh look at some humble crochet projects. The cover gives just a hint of the goodies inside. There’s little flash here – but the ideas are winners. You’ll be inspired to rethink some of your uses of thread and simple objects around your home. This book will guide you to feather your nest and embellish your wardrobe. Even your cupcakes will get a crochet re-do!

From the cover, you can see how crochet designer Jenny Doh takes humble, everyday objects and spiffs them up with her hook and yarn. This is a reflection of a design philosophy called Zakka, a Japanese term that Doh explains clearly to us with the nature of her designs. The designs are both simple yet sophisticated, humble yet charming, sprinkled with unexpected bits of delight.

I’ve written before about crochet covered rocks. This is one of my all time favorite ways to use thread! Doh takes it one step farther as you’ll see in the book. A simple, easy, but effective ‘upgrade’. And, those mason jars. I can think of other ways to use this idea. What about using Doh’s pattern with Christmas yarn to create charming candle holders or Gifts In A Jar goodies? I think these would be great sellers for school and church bazaars too.

That heart shaped item on the book cover is a simple, sweet purse. Made in holiday themed colors, it would set off any outfit. School colors would make them popular gifts or bazaar items too. Inside the book is a door stop that can only be described as dazzling. Take a single brick, covered with a fairly simple crochet design, and, Voila!, you have an outstanding decor item that just happens to be a doorstop.

There are many other similar ideas in this book – some of which can be crocheted in just minutes. I am inspired by this book to pull out the bag of jars I have on hand and create some holiday themed gift containers or home decor items. These are perfect ways to use up those partial skeins I have in the stash. You, too, will be tickled at how simple yet creative Doh’s projects are. I mean, who ever thought to embellish a birthday cake (the real, edible kind) with crochet? I can’t wait to try that one!

Book Specs:

Crochet Love by Jenny Doh

Lark Books, 2013

128 page, satin finished paperback with numerous helpful photos

ISBN 9781454707554

List Price: $17.95 USD

Some crochet garments look beautiful on the hanger but feel awkward to wear. This Lacy Crochet Tee from Lana Grossa is not one of those pieces. It’s light, breathable, and very much designed to be worn — the kind of handmade top that slips easily into your everyday wardrobe without feeling “too precious.”

What immediately stands out is the openness of the stitch pattern. It has that airy, lacy feel that works so well for warmer weather or for layering over a tank or dress. This isn’t a heavy, structured garment; it’s soft and fluid, with just enough texture to make it interesting while still letting the yarn shine.

From a making point of view, this tee is a really enjoyable project if you like crochet that feels calm and rhythmic. The lace pattern keeps your hands engaged without constant counting or frustration, which makes it perfect for evening crochet or quiet weekend sessions. It’s also very satisfying watching the fabric grow — those lacy stitches really show progress quickly.

Skill-wise, this one is best suited to confident beginners moving into intermediate crochet. You don’t need advanced shaping skills, but being comfortable with stitch patterns and keeping even tension will make the process much more enjoyable. If you’ve been wanting to dip your toe into wearable crochet without tackling a full sweater, this is a great place to start.

What I really appreciate about this pattern is how versatile it is. Change the colour and fibre and it can feel casual and beachy or clean and modern. It’s the kind of tee you’ll reach for again and again, especially when you want something handmade that still feels light and effortless.

If you enjoy crochet garments that are wearable, practical, and quietly stylish, this lacy tee is a lovely pattern to have in your collection.

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