Crochet: Over 130 Techniques and Stitches
The book is divided into three sections:
Tools
This section discusses yarn, hooks and other equipment. I like how each type of yarn is described in detail with the type of fiber and textures. There is also a buying guide and a reference to the type of labels for care and maintenance. She also includes a list of the different types of hooks from wooden to plastic to metal and their sizing.
Techniques
This section goes from basic stitches to crochet toys and felting. I found out that I hold my hook in the knife position as opposed to the pencil position. She provides example patterns for the different type of stitches. A few examples include how to chain stitch a necklace and bracelet and a washing cloth with a double crochet stitch. I am hoping this book will help me finally make a perfect granny square which has eluded me for so long. She also explains how to follow pattern directions and symbols. I have to be honest and say the lace and wire instructions are still beyond my skill level. I hope to one day be good enough to work with such delicate materials.
Projects
This is the bulk of the book and includes projects in these categories:
Blankets and cushions
Home and gifts
Hats and scarves
Gloves, socks and slippers
What to wear
Toys
Bags
Each one of the projects has detailed directions along with picture and the colors and yarn used to finish. I cannot decide what will be my first project. I really like the baby blanket with small granny squares. I would love to make the structured baskets to store some yarn skeins in when I am working so they don’t roll around the floor. The chunky rug would look great on any type of hard floor surface. The broomstick lace shawl looks so light and airy. I would really like to work up to making the lacy cardigan. It is so delicate. I have an amigurumi kit for my grandson. I may be able to make them with the toy instructions in this section. The patters for the bags are amazing. I cannot decide which one is my favorite. It is either the everyday bag or the diamond granny bag.
The patterns are written in an easy to follow format with the all the information you need to make the perfect project. I recommend this book to anyone that enjoys working with crochet and yarn.
