Sweet Azalea Blanket
I used to joke to myself that if I ever went back to work full-time, I’d still have designs published for many months after the fact because of the nature of the time it takes for different things to be published. Sweet Azalea was actually one of the last I crocheted (although I’m grasping at other designs when at all possible) before starting my new job, and happened entirely by circumstance because I couldn’t resist one last trip to Hill Country Weavers when I was visiting my sister in Austin.
I was ogling the Madelinetosh when Suzanne, the owner came by, and I got roped into another project that I just couldn’t say no to! Praire Bliss is a collection of designs with Austin flavor, with very cute styling and a great selection of local designers. Part of my heart will always be in Texas, so that counts! I picked three skeins of delicious tosh vintage for the main body of the blanket, and a scrumptions skein of light for the border. I absolutely loved working with both as Madelinetosh yarn has a z-twist that makes it lovely to crochet (there is a. lot. of this yarn in my personal stash). The blanket is light, super airy and perfect for Texas weather, and I think it doubles as a wonderful nursing shawl.
The central pattern is made up of a diamond lace stitch I came up with that uses a lot of (simple) increases and decreases. I had been waiting to use it on something for over a year. The edging is relatively repeatable and simple but the color combination and the lightness of the yarn really sets off the blanket. It could easily translate for boys, too. The pattern is available individually for $6 or as part of the e-book for $18.50 through Ravelry.
There are lots of other wonderful designs, mostly knit, and a lovely crochet skirt included in the Prairie Bliss Collection. Check it out when you have a chance!