Showing posts with label Crochet. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Crochet. Show all posts

Tuesday, December 29, 2020

Crochet by DK

 

Here is the book summary:

Learn more than 130 fully illustrated techniques and stitches and put them into practice as you go, creating 80 imaginative projects for home and to wear.

Packed with step-by-step photography and clear instructions, Crochet has everything you need to crochet a gorgeous array of clothing, home decor items, and toys. Get started with your first crochet hook, work a range of classic granny squares, and discover how to craft delicate lace and openwork pieces. Practice your newly learned skills on simple projects as you move through the ebook, or dive straight into the dedicated projects chapter, which includes amigurumi and toy designs, blankets and pillows, and clothing for children and adults.

Newly updated with a fresh design and brand-new photography, Crochet is both a perfect e-guide for beginners and an invaluable resource for more practiced crocheters.

And now, my review:

With Crochet by DK there is so much inspiration in one book it just gets you longing to start a project or play with some new stitches with a scrap of yarn.  I was thankful that this book has such nice pictures that show what they are describing because it helps for those who learn by seeing.  From young and old alike, learning the skill of crocheting is possible with this book. 

I received a digital copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.  

https://www.amazon.com/Crochet-Over-130-Techniques-Stitches/dp/0744020409/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=crochet+by+DK&qid=1609263976&sr=8-1


Friday, June 26, 2020

The Step by Step Guide to 200 Crochet Stitches by Tracey Todhunter


Here is the book summary:
An inspiring collection of 200 classic and new crochet stitches!

The perfect resource for new and experienced crocheters alike, The Step-By-Step Guide To 200 Crochet Stitches offers 200 stitches with detailed written, charted, and photographed instructions. This essential book stitch dictionary includes:

   • Basic stitches
   • Fans & Shells
   • Bobbles & Clusters
   • Spikes
   • Relief stitches
   • Mesh & Filet
   • Waves
   • Crossed stitches
   • Decorative stitches
You'll learn essential crochet skills, such as changing color, fastening off, and forming basic stitches. Each stitch is accessible with written, charted, and step-by-step photo instructions that clearly explain where the yarn goes each step of the way. Plus, large finished swatches in eye-catching colors show off the beauty of each stitch inspiring your hook through the entire book.

The Step-By-Step Guide To 200 Crochet Stitches is the must-have stitch dictionary you'll want in your reference library.

And now, my review:
The patterns are easy to read, fun, and inspiring.  You can go for days with no boredom with this one.  For those who love crocheting, I would highly recommend this book.  It’s easy to understand and great for beginners.  Those of us who are experienced, it’s a great reference for your crochet library.  I especially love the patterns where they change colors.  Now I’m off to crochet, crochet, and crochet some more. 
I received a digital copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.


Saturday, October 5, 2019

The Crochet Stitch Handbook by Betty Barnden



Here is the book summary:
The Crochet Stitch Handbook fully explains over 200 stitches. A perfect starter guide for beginners, with advanced projects and details for experts, this book is a wonderful addition to the library of any crafter, crocheter, or knitter.

The handbook includes step-by-step instructions for basic stitches, textured stitches, fans and shells stitches, mesh and filet stitches, openwork and lace stitches, trims and edgings, clusters, puffs, bobbles, spike, relief, Tunisian, multi-color, squares, and special stitches.

Crochet is the technique of making a looped fabric from a continuous length of yarn, using a single hook. The word crochet itself derives from the French croc, meaning a hook (or crook); an old Scottish name for crochet is "shepherd's knitting." It is one of the most portable and flexible of crafts, requiring only a hook and some yarn. 

Master the basic techniques of crochet, and more, to create a fascinating variety of effects with The Crochet Stitch Handbook.

And now, my review:
I found The Crochet Stitch Handbook by Betty Barnden to be an excellent book in the crochet book world.  She is thorough and helpful with a written pattern and a “picture” pattern.  My teenage daughter could not put this down.  She just kept working through more and more stitches and they were beautiful.  There is so much inspiration and ongoing options to choose from and I just can’t say enough about this book to all our friends in the crafting world.  If you’re a fellow crafter in the crocheting world, you’re going to want this physical book in your library!
I received a digital copy of this book in exchange for my honest review,
https://www.amazon.com/Crochet-Stitch-Handbook-Easy-Follow/dp/0785836365/ref=sr_1_3?crid=TPMZNJLHR8AH&keywords=the+crochet+stitch+handbook&qid=1570278317&sprefix=the+crochet+stitch%2Caps%2C160&sr=8-3



Saturday, March 30, 2019

Crochet 101 by Deborah Burger

Crochet 101: Master Basic Skills Easily through Step-by-Step Instruction by [Burger, Deborah]

Here is the book summary:
Written with the absolute beginner in mind, this engaging book teaches all the basics for learning to crochet with step-by-step instructions and photographs. Crocheting skills are learned by working on projects, beginning with something very easy and getting progressively more difficult as the reader works through the book. New skills are explored in depth as they are introduced. The introductory section covers all the basics of crochet-selecting yarn, hook types and sizes, other tools and accessories, crochet gauge, chaining, forming the basic stitches, reading patterns-making this the most comprehensive beginner’s book available. The online video tutorials created to supplement this book are an additional learning tool demonstrating the essential techniques used in crochet.

And now, my review:
From picking yarn and fibers to finding the right crochet hook for you, this book has all the basics a person needs to get started and be successful with crocheting.  My favorite project was what the author called the Roll Brim Cloche which is a hat with some flowers on it.  And I loved what she called a Flower Power Retro Beanie.  It was so nice that she included “wet blocking” instructions for the Windflower Shawlette.  There are many other parts of this book as well that makes this a great book to check out for your craft library.

I received a digital copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.



Thursday, February 28, 2019

Delicate Crochet by Sharon Hernes Silverman


Here is the book summary:
Light, airy pieces crocheted in fine yarns show off the beauty of your crochet stitches and are a dream to wear! The shawls, cardigans, tops, and other designs in this collection are light as a feather, super soft, and made to drape beautifully across your body. These lacy pieces are fun to crochet and very versatile. Change up the yarns to create looks for day or night, work or play, city or suburbs. 

Pattern contributors include Kristin Omdahl, Robyn Chachula, Marty Miller, Amy Solovay, Vashti Braha, and others known for their innovative, gorgeous crochet designs. Each of the 23 patterns includes full written instructions and charts as needed. All special stitches are fully explained and skill levels range from easy to advanced.

And now, my review:
There’s wraps, shawls, scarves, gloves, and sweater/cardigans in this one. Along with a necklace design. There are 23 designs to choose from.  I enjoyed the names of each item.  In just their titles, it drew me in.  Each pattern told me what level it was rated and all the supplies I needed to have to accomplish that design.  I would say these are in the lace family of looks.  I think my favorite designs from this book are the Palmy Cardigan and the Lacy Sleeveless Cardigan.

I received a digital copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.




Wednesday, September 19, 2018

Dishcloths to Crochet by Pat Olski



Here is the book summary:
Crocheters of all skill levels will delight in these playful patterns for crocheted dishcloths — they're as fun to make as they are to use! Animals, flowers, and fruits are among the themes of the 25 patterns, which include Sweet Strawberry, Perky Pig, Dandy Daffodil, and other designs.
Full-color photos accompany the easy-to-follow instructions. The directions also show how to convert any of the dishcloths into a potholder with the simple addition of a ring. Great to stitch during warm-weather months, the dishcloths make cheerful displays, and the textured stitches are ideal for efficient dishwashing. They're great gifts, too!

And now, my review:
I received an advanced reader’s digital copy of this book and the images did not transmit well.  The script did.  What I can say about the script is that it was well executed in detail to help me to perfect my very own dishcloth in some very creative patterns.  That was the thing that intrigued me to check this book out in the first place. It’s always a nice thing to dress up the kitchen and also to be inspired to make gifts for others.  Happy crocheting. 

I received a digital copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.



Saturday, August 25, 2018

Crochet Loom Blooms by Haafner Linssen



Here is the book summary:
Discover the blossoming trend of flower looming! It's quick, it's simple, it's fun, and with a bit of crochet you can create a stunning collection of 30 flower motifs. In Crochet Loom Blooms, you'll find everything you need to get you started including:

·        Step-by-step guide to using a flower loom, plus detailed illustrations on crochet stitches that bring your flowers to life.
·        30 unique flower motifs in a variety of shapes and styles--from simple and lacy to dense, multi-layers foliage, Crochet Loom Blooms has it all.
·        5 fabulous projects and valuable tips and tricks from best-selling author Haafner Linssen that will have your home bursting with crochet loom blooms in no time!
A garden of delight, you'll find yourself referencing Crochet Loom Blooms time again whether looking for specific instruction or a dose of inspiration.

And now, my review:
Crocheting and flowers all in one is a great treat!  This book hooked me with interest from the cover and I was super excited to find inside 30 great patterns to create lovely flowers.  It gave me step-by-step instructions and I found them easy to follow and very doable.  I like that I can put a border around them if I want but for me right now I’m making flower embellishments for hats and I can make these and use these without the borders.  I just love it! 


I received a digital copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.




Tuesday, May 29, 2018

Summertime Crochet by Helgrid Van Impelen and Verena Woehlk Appel


Here is the book summary:
Today's cotton and linen yarns are perfect for summer apparel! Breezy tanks, motif tops, and cute hats can all be crocheted and are just right for the warm-weather style. Fill your summer wardrobe with one-of-a-kind items that have you looking your best for every occasion.

And now, my review:
Who doesn’t love a little breezy summer accessory?  When I saw this book I just knew that I wanted to check out what it had to offer because of the summer options that I love to work on in the summer.  My daughters get out our crochet hooks, look through and pick a pattern, and go for it.  Great fun!  From bags to hair pretties to clothes…  it’s all included. 

I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.




Sunday, February 18, 2018

Crochet Stories: J.M. Barrie's Peter Pan by Sarah Sloyer


Here is the book summary:
Travel to Never-Never Land with this "crafty" retelling of the adventures of the boy who wouldn't grow up. The book features a brief version of J. M. Barrie's classic tale, Peter Pan, punctuated with more than a dozen well-illustrated patterns for the beloved characters, plus a variety of accessories.
The ever-popular story opens in the London nursery of the Darling household, presenting patterns for Peter, Wendy and her brothers, and Nana the dog. Storybook chapters of the young Darlings' adventures in Never-Never Land follow, alternating with patterns for Captain Hook, Smee, the crocodile, Tinkerbell, the Lost Boys, the pirate ship, and other whimsical projects that range from easy to intermediate to advanced.

And now, my review:
I thought that Sarah had a clever way of putting together the characters of Peter Pan.  This book is well laid out and user-friendly to know all the steps to take to make a bunch of play toys to brighten a little ones day in the wonderful world of make-believe.  I love that she included chapters of the adventure in the book.  If you can follow a pattern, like Peter Pan, and are up for the challenge you’ll want to check out this one.  Happy crocheting.


I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.  


Saturday, January 13, 2018

Snuggle and Play Crochet by Carolina Guzman Benitez

Snuggle and Play Crochet: 40 Amigurumi Patterns for Lovey Security Blankets and Matching Toys by [Benitez, Carolina Guzman]
Here’s the book summary:
Snuggle up with a crochet comforter or play with a colourful character--this unique collection of 40 amigurumi patterns are simple to stitch and super cute! Featuring crochet toy patterns including boy and girl dolls, dogs and cats, bears and bunnies and many more, this amazing collection will give you over 40 different crochet toys to create.

And now, my review:
This is a lovely crochet pattern book full of fun gifts to give to people who are expecting and those with small ones.  It has a variety to choose from and there’s sure to be a favorite.  I think the frog is great for boys!!  In addition, my favorites are the Giraffe and the Hippo!  Each pattern has a blanket that you work through with very simple and complete instructions and then it has a section for the pattern for the animals.  You can go with their color choice or choose your own based on your needs or your supplies at the moment.  These are sure to please little fingers.

I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.




Thursday, September 7, 2017

Dumpling Cats by Sarah Sloyer



















Here is the book summary:
Waffles is a relaxed feline who loves to read, and Cheeks just can't get enough to eat. These fun-loving characters are just two of the 25 dumpling-shaped crochet cats in this whimsical collection. The cuddly crochet critters were inspired by the Pokémon™-like craze Neko Atsume, a game that enables you to attract cats to your backyard and "collect" them. Each little dumpling has a name and personality points that add up to big fun!
You don't have to be an expert to crochet and collect these adorable kitties — the patterns are suitable for crocheters of all skill levels. Easy-to-follow instructions are accompanied by full-color photos and simple drawings. The directions explain every stage, from ears to tail, and some of the patterns include accessories and costume items. Plus, there are bonus patterns for a cat bed, food bowls, and more!

And now, my review:
What a cute crochet craft book for those who love cats.  These things are the perfect size for quick work and the feeling of accomplishment, which I love when crafting.  With this book, you look through, pick the one you’re interested in crafting and have a great time creating it.  I found the patterns very creative and nicely laid out with colored pictures throughout to help visualize where you are going with it.  There are so many that I like but my favorite is “Cheeks”.  I would recommend this to fellow crochet crafters. 

I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. 
https://www.amazon.com/Dumpling-Cats-Crochet-Collect-Them/dp/0486813436/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1504802912&sr=8-1&keywords=dumpling+cats

https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/dumpling-cats-sarah-sloyer/1124688939?ean=9780486813431#/

Thursday, July 27, 2017

Design Your Own Crochet Projects by Sara Delaney

Design Your Own Crochet Projects: Magic Formulas for Creating Custom Scarves, Cowls, Hats, Socks, Mittens & Gloves by [Delaney, Sara]

















Here is the book summary:
You love to crochet, but you’re tired of the granny square and other predictable projects. Let celebrated crochet teacher Sara Delaney help you expand your skills while showing you how to create custom-fit wearable accessories. Delaney’s unique, flexible formulas let crocheters of all levels easily design scarves, cowls, fingerless mitts, mittens, gloves, hats, and socks. With fill-in-the-blank templates and a stitch dictionary, you can use your favorite yarn and stitch pattern, and make accessories that fit perfectly. Delaney offers a starter course in the technique with 18 of her own original patterns, along with the formulas she used to create them.

And now, my review:
I found this book very informative.  It starts out with gauges, yarn and all things that you need to know as you start out a project.  It includes Scarves, Cowls, Hats, Fingerless Mitts, Mittens, Gloves, Socks, and gives you freedom to put some design ideas to work.  Personally right now in my crafting I’m focused on socks and this book did not disappoint in that area.  This book includes 3 variations of socks and also a slipper which was really nice.  But wherever you find your flavor right now, this book has at least a couple of everything to choose from and unending designs you can think up yourself with the help of her direction to get started.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

Crochet Stories: L. Frank Baum's The Wonderful Wizard of Oz by Pat Olski



















Here is the book summary:
Follow the Yellow Brick Road to a charming combination of storytelling and crocheting! Suitable for beginning to intermediate crocheters, this book features a retelling of the classic adventure story, punctuated with nineteen patterns for L. Frank Baum's beloved characters, plus their settings and accessories.
The much-loved tale begins in Kansas and follows Dorothy and Toto to Oz, presenting patterns for the little heroine, her dog, and her Uncle Henry and Aunt Em. Storybook chapters of her arrival and encounters with the people of Oz follow, accompanied by patterns for a Munchkin, the Good Witch of the North, the Wicked Witch of the East (consisting of Dorothy's house with the witch's magic slippers sticking out from underneath), and a stretch of the Yellow Brick Road. Subsequent chapters introduce Dorothy's new friends — the Scarecrow, Tin Woodman, and Cowardly Lion — and those they meet in the Emerald City — the Wizard, the Wicked Witch of the West, a Winged Monkey, and the kindly Glinda the Good. In addition to these characters, the full-color patterns include key storytelling items such as the poppy, Emerald City spectacles, water bucket, and magical golden cap. A photo gallery of many of the story's characters provides a delightful conclusion to the book.
And now, my review:
All you crochet people out there and fans of the famous old movie, this is a great book to get your hands on!  It’s well laid out and has some really well thought-out designs.  It starts out with an abbreviation page and quickly moves into the CUTE stuffies you can make.  Everyone in my family has a favorite and they are all different.  I’m also encouraged that I can use the pattern to make my own designs with choosing different colors if I want.  Pick up your copy today!