August 06
Crochet, like knitting, is enjoying a revival at the moment and once again it is cool to be seen with needles or a hook and a ball of yarn. But crochet is a large subject, and if you think filet has something to do with fish or a broomstick is just for sweeping then this book will tell you much that you need to know.
Unlike some books that go into a subject in depth you can learn from this one even if you have never picked up a hook before. It shows you how to hold the yarn, make a foundation row and all the basics such as measuring your work, blocking, sewing up and choosing yarn. This is not just a book full of basics though, and the rest of the chapters are filled with information aimed at the intermediate - or even advanced - crochet worker. Here is every stitch you have ever heard of (and some you haven't) all with diagrams and samples, joining squares and other shapes, making edgings, variations such as Tunisian, filet, hairpin and broomstick crochet and lots of examples to work. This is surely the best way of learning anything, and instantly raises this book above all those who don't give a pattern for an example. This is not truly a book of projects, and only a handful are given at the back to give you a taste of what you can do. Here too is the inevitable gallery of professionals work showing how crochet can look in the hands of a master, and how wonderful it would be if these patterns were here too - but they aren't. The only type of crochet missing (except from the gallery) is working with wire, which was a pity as it is so much a part of the current crochet revival. This aside, this is an excellent book that ought to keep anybody who is keen on learning or improving their skills occupied for a long time. Add some yarn and a hook and it would make a wonderful present for the crafter in your life!
* Myshelf.com *
Nov 06
Whether you are an avid crocheter or a complete beginner, this new book should definitely be on your shelf. Every aspect of the craft is comprehensively covered os if you are feeling out of practice or completely in the dark about a stitch or method, the Encyclopedia of Crochet Techniques will clearly explain all. There is an introductory chapter on the essentials which includes all the basic skills from joining yarns, reading patterns and charts, tension as well as the 'building blocks' of crochet: slip and chain stitches, doubles and trebles. You then effortlessly move on to 'combination' stitches such as shells, clusters, bobbles as well as the many differentshapes that are possible such as chevrons, circles, squares and hexagons. Learning how to work intarsia crochet, tubular work, lacy stitches and filet crochet will keep you turning the pages and absorbing the methods and techniques. Even techniques such as Tunisian, Hairpin and Broomstick crochet are explored. There is a chapter with seven projects but by this stage you will probably feel confident enough to create your own with all the preceding information in the book. After all, with buttonholes explained and inspirational edgings, braids and fringes, it is difficult to stop the ideas coming! Coupled with the gallery at the end, it will be impossible to resist the urge to pick up a hook and get going straightaway. The techniques are all presented in manageable chunks which makes it easy to find the particular one you are after or, for the beginner, gives it a manageable feel which is not intimidating or overwhelming. After the large colour photographs in the initial chapter, the majority of subsequent stitches are explained with clear colour diagrams that are actually easier to follow than photos.
* Knit Today *
Spring 2007
Learning and developing a new skill is never easy, but if you're determined to master crochet there can be no better helping hand than The Encyclopedia of Crochet Techniques. Bursting at the seams with patterns and techniques, this book is a great visual learning aid, designed to both inspire and encourage.
The first section deals with basic techniques and typical early problems. Then there's an extensive techniques section, which increases in difficulty as your skills develop. Seven full-scale projects are included.
Finally there's a Gallery section, drawn from a variety of sources across the world. It features a range of crochet garments to challenge you.
We defy you not to be inspired!
* Simply Knitting *
