Rowan have released several new books for Spring and Summer 2010 and first up is Summer Crochet.

Rowan Summer Crochet pattern book

Crochet is definitely becoming more popular and crocheters have been asking for a long time for more patterns.  This new book from Rowan booklet focuses solely on summer crochet patterns. With 12 feminine designs which are both modern and easy to wear, the collection includes crochet lace panel tunics and summer tops to the chunkier openwork crochet of a shrug and a poncho.

Here are just some of the crochet patterns featured in the book.  More can be seen on our website.

Santorini from Rowan Summer Crochet

Crete from Rowan Summer Crochet

Corsica from Rowan Summer Crochet

All the patterns use either Rowan Cotton Glace or Rowan Siena 4 Ply yarn – both of which we’ll be getting in stock soon.

We’ve just started stocking Rowan Shimmer yarn.  This glittery yarn is perfect for giving garments a touch of sparkle and I’m currently knitting a bolero from Rowan Studio 17 which is knitted by holding together a strand of Shimmer and a strand of Kidsilk Aura.  It gives a lovely effect.

However you can use Shimmer just by itself and Rowan have just published two free crochet patterns on their website: one for a festive napkin ring, and one for a placemat and coaster set.

Free crochet pattern from Rowan

These patterns use Shimmer in shade 93 Titanium, which I have to say isn’t very accurately represented in their photo.  In the photo above it looks bronze, but in real life it looks more like a dark silver shade.

We’re delighted to announce the arrival of Rowan Magazine 46.

Rowan Knitting & Crochet Magazine 46 has three beautiful stories, Heritage, Folklore & Shadowland.  Heritage is eccentrically English and includes striped, patterned and lace womenswear designs.  Folklore explores traditional folk designs, including tartans, plaids, fairisle, tweeds and texture.  The final story surfaces in the form of oversized, chunky textures fashioned in dusky purple and deep red tones.  Designs are for both men and women.

Folklore (Click for larger image)

Heritage (Click for larger image)

Shadowland (Click for larger image)

Navajo is a special collection for children ages 11-16, inspired by the colours of the American wilderness. These can be downloaded from Rowan’s website: www.knitrowan.com

Navajo (Click for larger image)

The yarns used are Big Wool, Cocoon, Pure Wool 4ply, Pure Wool Aran, Shimmer, Wool Cotton, Kidsilk Haze, Kid Classic, Kidsilk Aura, Felted Tweed, Felted Tweed Aran and Felted Tweed Chunky.

This pattern book contains knitting and crochet designs by Marie Wallin, Erika Knight, Sarah Hatton, Amanda Crawford, Kaffe Fassett, Brandon Mably, Sarah Dallas, Martin Storey, Jennie Atkinson and Janice Anderson.