Knitch Magazine

Author: SoHo Publishing Company

Date Published: 2011

Review Date: July 13, 2011

Who is this book for?

Go crafty!, a new knitting and crochet series from SoHo Publishing Company, was recently launched with six new pattern booklets . Widely known and respected as the publisher of Vogue Knitting, Knit 1 and Knit Simple magazines, SoHo also publishes a wide range of crochet and knitting books. SoHo publications features trend-setting fashions by the industry’s top designers. Friendship Shawls is one of the first issues in the go crafty! series . It includes 10 striking shawls for all skill levels, from easy to advanced. The whimsical Wine Country Shawl on the cover is reminiscent 1930’s-era quilted yo-yo’s, currently enjoying a revival among quilters. The crocheted hearts are tied together with tiny bows to form a colorful open wrap. Other styles include traditional triangular shawls, long rectangular stoles and more modern, modular shawls. These designer inspired projects utilize color, texture and shape in making emphatic fashion statements. Other crochet booklets in the series include Crochet Accessories and Crochet Baby Blankets.

What Yarn Does it Feature?

Projects in Friendship Shawls showcase yarns from Caron International: Caron International Simply Soft Collection, Naturally Caron.com Country and Naturally Caron.com Spa. These yarns are available in a range of coordinated colors, prints, and paints. The yarns are readily available but other brands could as easily be substituted.

What's Inside

The go crafty! series is published in 8 ½ x 11-inch format. Each of the 10 patterns in Friendship Shawls is accompanied by a large full page color fashion shot that features the shawl as the focal point of the model’s ensemble. Side and back views are inserted in the frame to illustrate fit and shape. The appealing photos, calculated to create interest, generate the urge to pick up a crochet hook and try the attractive designs.

Using It

Pattern directions are presented using standard pattern conventions. The concise directions include assembly charts and diagrams where appropriate. The booklet is designed for crocheters with intermediate level experience. Beginners may need to rely on their local yarn shop or an instructor for guidance on some of the patterns.

Best Pattern (or Best Advice)

Friendship Shawls brings crochet to au courant fashion. These are not “peasant shawls” that could be mistaken for the family afghan. Indeed, Friendship Shawls is a collection so attractive that crocheters will want to make more than just one.

Recommendation

Crocheters can add a fashionable piece to their wardrobe with one or more of the stylish shawls in Friendship Shawls. These relatively quick projects also make treasured gifts that require no fit or sizing. Shawls are a simple way to expand skills while creating a thing of beauty.

Overall Recommendation