Celebrate Summer with Crochet

June 28, 2010

Time for Summer Crochet (Plus a Free Pattern!) As I write this it's 61 degrees and cloudy—at the end of June! It's usually at least in the 70s here by now. Even though it feels like spring outside, I'm thinking summery thoughts and I'm turning to all sorts of warm-weather knitting and crochet projects. Marcy Smith, editor of Interweave Crochet, is here today to talk about all of the summer designs in the newest issue of the magazine. There are really some beautiful items here, and as usual, lots of inspiration! So here's Marcy to tell you more. (Plus, there's a free pattern at the end of the newsletter!) Let the summer begin! ____________________________________ Dive into the Summer Issue of Interweave Crochet We love summer crochet. Lacy fabric, light fibers—it's all good. And our summer issue of Interweave Crochet is brimming with patterns that are both engaging to make and fun to wear. Lodestar Tunic by Natasha Robarge Moth Wings Shrug by Mimi Alelis Threadweight and laceweight fibers play a strong role in this issue. The Lodestar Tunic, above left, is a delicious bit of crochet that begins with the sassy motif belt and works upward for the bodice, then downward for a skirt. Make it as is for a tunic, or make it shorter for a top or longer for a dress. The Moth Wings Shrug, above right, is a bit of thread crochet perfect for a carry-around project. Even after you've begun joining the motifs, the project is very portable.   Midsummer Night's Shawl by Lisa Naskrent   We have three shawls, including the Cool Wave Shawl worked in Tunisian crochet. (To make learning Tunisian even easier, check out our videos on Tunisian techniques at CrochetMe.com.) The Midsummer Night's Shawl by Lisa Naskrent, left, is worked in laceweight Malabrigo in a pattern that's suitable for novice shawl-makers. If you prefer diagrams to written instructions, we've included plenty of them throughout the issue. We hope this makes your crocheting even more enjoyable. More to Love And there's more to love in this issue: Gwen Blakley Kinsler and Margaret Hubert share their conversation about the evolution of crochet over the past half century or so. In Beyond the Basics, Kim Guzman revisits double-ended crochet and provides a pattern for linen placemats perfect for an outdoor dinner. Betsy Greer focuses on charities for homeless pets in her Craftivism column, including a pattern for a Cat Nap Mat. Circles Squared by Kathy Merrick   And we have the first five designer squares in the Chain Reaction Afghan Project, including Kathy Merrick's Circles Squared, at left. Remember to submit your own original design at CrochetMe.com. It could become part of the final afghan! To see the full preview, click here. Be inspired to take a deep breath and dive into something bright and new—subscribe to Interweave Crochet today! Enjoy your summer crochet! Best,		Kathleen Cubley is the editor of Knitting Daily. Kathleen's Knit-Along We're knitting the Sleeveless Tuxedo Shirt. Come knit with us! More Knitting Daily •  Blogs •  Galleries •  Knitting Daily TV •  Free Patterns •  Join Knitting Daily •  Share Your Comments

Voted "Best Crochet Magazine" 2 Years in a Row Find out why with a free issue of Interweave Crochet. Whether you are entranced by Tunisian, cables, or lace, or are looking for a pattern to put your newfound crochet skills to use, there's no better place to start. Every issue of Interweave Crochet is packed with fresh new designs. There is something to suit every taste and skill level. Do you love classic styles? Or is your style more contemporary? Either way, you'll find yourself turning to Interweave Crochet again and again. Inside every issue you’ll find...  More than 18 fresh new designs Techniques, tricks and tips designed to improve your crochet projects In-depth yarn reviews help you understand an old favorite or help you find a new one Artist profiles that are sure to inspire Every project includes gorgeous photos from a variety of angles to help you choose your next project Find out for yourself what the buzz is all about. Claim your FREE ISSUE of Interweave Crochet today.                 Bonus material at CrochetMe.com! Download the free pattern for the Moonglow Vee by Mari Lynn Patrick, today! Also, you'll find enlarged charts for the Midsummer Night's Shawl by Lisa Naskrent at CrochetMe.com.