Crochet

Patterns, projects and techniques

SOME FRESH IDEAS

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If you’ve been paying attention to a lot of my blog entries, you’ll know that I love to recycle common household articles, especially fiber-based items, and I love beads.  I was digging through Etsy for a few minutes recently and ran across some items that are very inspirational to me, combining crochet with other arts and recycling.  Hope you enjoy the brief overview.  Some items are for sale, some are patterns, and all are giving me ideas………

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?ref=sr_gallery_13&listing_id=17067842

 

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?ref=sr_gallery_6&listing_id=16995178

This one is called a necklace, but I’d much prefer to see it as a belt (if I had a waist).

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?ref=sr_gallery_4&listing_id=17066633

This bottle could obviously be embellished to suit any occasion or holiday.  I love flavored vinegars and like to recycle wine and whiskey bottles for storing it.  Since I’m not a drinker, I prefer to not ‘advertise’ the booze!  Another idea would be to use an ugly bottle as a bud vase, covered with crochet to match the occasion or decor.  You can even crochet the bow to go around the throat of the bottle, like this:

http://www.crochetnmore.com/bowornament.htm

or use almost any cute scrunchy pattern to decorate the throat of the covered bottle.

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.