Through the Looking Glass Children's Book Reviews
Hip to Crochet: 23 Contemporary Projects for Today's Crocheter
Nonfiction Craft Book
For ages 12 and up
Interweave Press, 2004 ISBN: 978-1931499521
The days when crocheting was for only grannies and aunties are definitely over. Many people think that crochet projects always have to be afghans and dull looking ""lumpy sweaters."" This is far from the truth because the crochet hook and crochet techniques can in fact produce all kinds of beautiful items of clothing which are hip and chic. They can also make lovely blankets, colorful pillows, stylish cell phone pouches, purses, and so much more. All you need is a hook, some yarn – and there are so many wonderful yarns out there these days – and an interesting pattern, and you are set.
Of course if you are new to crocheting, it really helps to have a book to help you get started and this particular book is perfect for the job. The author begins by showing you how to hold your crochet hook and how to make your first stitches. She shows you how to do single crochet, half double crochet, triple crochet, , increasing, decreasing, and slip stitches. She then teaches you how to read a pattern. This is very helpful for someone who has never read a pattern before and who might find the crochet terminology confusing.
The next section of the book is the best part – the patterns. Here you get to make scarves, hats, mittens, slippers, bags, tops of various kinds, skirts, baskets, pillows, and throws. The instructions are easy to follow because you are given up front a list of what you will and the gauge that you will be working in. The author defines the abbreviations that she uses in the pattern and there are wonderful photographs to show the crafter what the finished product will look like. Diagrams gave been provided to help with comprehension when it is needed. Sidebars containing additional tips and information can be found throughout the book.
Well written and presented in an attractive and easy to follow format, this is an excellent title to get the beginner crocheter started. It also contains some wonderful projects for crocheters who have more experience and who are looking for projects which are colorful, pretty, and interesting to make.
