Crochet Southwest Spirit: Over 20 Bohemian Crochet Patterns Inspired by the American Southwest by Susan Kennedy is a colorful new crochet pattern book from David & Charles Publishing Today I’ll be sharing my in-depth review of Crochet Southwest Spirit and it’s unique collection of patterns for home décor and accessory projects.
I have a copy of this book to give away to one lucky winner. Be sure to read to the end of the review for an opportunity to enter to win a copy of Crochet Southwest Spirit!
Thanks to David & Charles for providing me with this book free of charge in exchange for my honest opinion. I do not guarantee a positive review of any product reviewed on my site. All opinions shared here are my own.
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A Bit About the Author
Author Susan Kennedy of Pretty Peaceful Crochet is a neuroscientist and crochet designer that lives in the gorgeous San Juan Mountains of Southwest Colorado, near the Four Corners area of the USA. Which, for those that may not be familiar, is where the borders of New Mexico, Arizona, Colorado and Utah meet.
Susan offers a variety of paid and free patterns and tutorials via Ravelry and her Youtube channel.
The Book’s Intro Pages
The first several pages of this book (pages 4 – 11) cover information about the fiber arts traditions of the Ute, Pueblo and Diné Navajo people of the region, which were an inspiration for this book.
I found this section to be incredibly fascinating and Susan’s love and great respect of these traditions shines through. This section is accompanied by gorgeous photos of natural landscapes, sheep, yarn and projects made by indigenous artists and more. It was a beautiful way to open the book.
Crochet Patterns In Crochet Southwest Spirit
In this book. there are 21 different crochet patterns with peaceful color palettes and a relaxed vibe. The book is split into three pattern sections: Simple Stitches, Textured Stitches and Southwestern Tapestry.
The first projects in the book are meant to be the simpler, more beginner-friendly patterns with the intermediate patterns / more complex patterns further into the book. Here are the patterns included:
- Rio Grande Stripe Towels
- Artisan Market Baskets
- Cozy Yogi Wrap
- Modern Bohemian Blanket
- Sedona Knot Cushion
- Durango Pillows
- La Plata Rug & Pillow
- Dreamer’s Path Wrap
- Valley of Dreams Blanket
- Cactus Garden Blanket
- Bears Ears Fringed Pillow
- Raider Ridge Wall Hangings
- Land of Enchantment Blanket & Pillow
- Vallecito Blanket
- Lone Mesa Pillows & Tote
- Wind River Weighted Blanket
- Canyon Moon Blanket
- Globe Trekker Throw
Check Out the Video Version of This Review
In-Depth Pattern Info
The patterns written in this book are written using the US terminology with a US to UK terminology conversion chart being found on page 106.
The patterns use a variety of techniques from regular crochet, tapestry crochet, mosaic crochet and some macrame. Some patterns (like the Modern Bohemian Blanket) include step-by-step photos to assist in getting started with your new project.
I really liked the laid-back bohemian style of the patterns – my favourites being the intricate southwestern tapestry crochet patterns the Canyon Moon Blanket and the Globe Trekker Blanket.
While I found most of the patterns to be clear and easy to follow, I found some of the patterns needing more clarification or instruction. Make sure you thoroughly read the notes of each pattern and the pattern itself through from beginning to end prior to starting to crochet which will help avoid some confusion.
If you already have an expansive crochet repertoire (particularly with attaching yarn and colorwork projects), you should be able to fill in the blanks easily enough.
Also make sure to read through the instructions for the various charts in the books since they boxes in the charts showing color changes or drop down double crochet stitches don’t always have 1 block = 1 stitch as traditionally found in these types of charts.
While there are a few patterns that are accessible for beginners (like the Rio Grande Stripe Towels, the Artisan Market Baskets or the Knot Cushion), most of the other patterns are geared towards intermediate crocheters.
Crochet Southwest Spirit Book Supports
Pages 104 – 125 cover the techniques used in the book. The basic stitches used are accompanied by illustrations to help you visualize the instructions given.
The section on tassels and fringe is quite helpful and contains photographic support. If you plan to attempt any of the colorwork projects in the book, make sure to read pages 115 – 123 for instructions on the techniques utilized in those designs.
There is a brief section about blocking near the end of the book which I would have loved to see expanded upon for makers, particularly regarding blocking wool fibers and cotton yarns since those yarns are heavily utilized in the projects.
While gauge doesn’t particularly matter too much for the patterns in the book and I was thrilled to see that the information on the gauge for each pattern is provided, there is no support material regarding gauge which would be helpful for folks that want their projects to turn out to be the size(s) provided in each pattern.
Summary
Overall, this is a beautiful book of original projects that is sure to be a hit with fans of bohemian patterns and southwestern style. I’d recommend this book for intermediate crocheters that don’t mind occasional problem solving and resourceful, adventurous beginners that are looking to expand their skillset and can’t resist the call of those gorgeous southwestern style crochet blanket patterns.
If you are interested in buying a copy of Crochet Southwest Spirit you can find it here on Amazon.
Like crochet book and product reviews? Check out these reviews:
- The Hooktionary by Brenda K.B. Anderson
- More Crochet Iconic Women by Carla Mitrani
- Laurel Hill Crochet Hook Review
- King Cole Forest Aran Yarn Review
- Check out all my other crochet book reviews here
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Crochet Southwest Spirit Book Giveaway
Thanks to David & Charles Publishing, I have a copy of Crochet Southwest Spirit by Susan Kennedy to giveaway!
This giveaway on The Loopy Lamb is open to worldwide participants (except where void by law and void in Quebec). Giveaway ends Friday, September 22, at 11:45pm Eastern Standard time.
To enter, use the King Sumo form below. If you are on mobile and have difficulty entering, please use a desktop computer to enter. Only the Email address option is mandatory – all other tasks are optional, for bonus entries only. Please note that by entering your email below, you are subscribing to The Loopy Lamb email list. We will not send you spam, just notifications about new free crochet patterns, news and giveaways.
