Inside Crochet - Issue 58

There is currently a big trend for Scandinavian style – from Nordic Noir dramas on our TV screens to monochrome interiors, the chic minimalism of Scandi design seems to be everywhere you look. This aesthetic translates especially well to knitting and crochet, as the long and rich history of yarn crafts from the area have a wealth of designs and traditions to take inspiration from. Colourwork techniques are a particularly strong Nordic practice and the simple, unfussy designs look particularly striking in tapestry crochet, as with our gorgeous mittens by Vicki Brown, inspired by the Scandinavian folk knitting tradition, and Rohn Strong’s striking skiwear-inspired sweater.

The folk art theme continues in Irene Strange’s beautiful Dala horse toys. A traditional symbol of Sweden, usually these toys are carved from wood, but the soft yarn and simple shape contrast beautifully with the appliqué and make an incredibly attractive and huggable child’s companion.

Bold geometric patterning such as chevrons and stripes achieve the Nordic theme with striking simplicity. I particularly like the soft monochrome palette used in Sophie Wire’s squishy and contemporary cushion pattern, while I had a play with one of my favourite beading techniques to create an on-trend candy striped rope necklace. You can learn this fabulously simple technique on page 84 with our easy

step-by-step guide and two patterns to try.

Happy crocheting!

Claire Montgomerie, Editor

Inside Crochet is available in paper form from all good newsagents and craft stores. Call 01202 586848 or visit www.selectmagazines.com to order a copy directly from us. To purchase a digital copy of Inside Crochet, visit us on www.pocketmags.com, or download our app through the Apple App Store or Google Play.