BOOKS
DIY
1.
Simmons Monika
Double Stitch: Designs for the Crochet Fashionista
The simple techniques shown in this guide together with the flirty, sassy designs will have even beginners crocheting in no time. Projects are divided into two collections, with "Out and About" featuring casual daytime fashions to layer over T-shirts or wear with jeans, a look that migrates from a downtown coffeehouse to the beach with ease. From the webbed halter dress and hooded poncho to the remix T-shirt with crocheted sleeves, all these pieces radiate an irresistible bohemian charm. The evening collection, "Paint the Town," emphasizes unusual detailing, open-weave crochet, and playful colors in designs for a feather choker and matching cocktail bag, a gothic shawl, a glamorous full-length peek-a-boo dress, a slinky tailored shrug, and a corset with satin ribbon ties.
2.
Kristin Omdahl
Seamless Crochet: Techniques and Designs for Join-As-You-Go Motifs
Join the seamless revolution!
Traditional motif seaming techniques require crocheters to painstakingly sew together hundreds of seams and weave in countless ends. Not with Seamless Crochet!
With Seamless Crochet, innovative designer Kristin Omdahl has pioneered a new technique for crocheters of all skill levels to create motif-based patterns in one piece, eliminating seams and leaving only two ends to weave in. Kristin's revolutionary modular construction allows one motif to flow into the next, creating secure joins and beautiful geometric patterning on the exterior round.
Inside you'll find a showcase of 18 garment, home decor, and accessory projects from Kristin that will change the way you crochet forever. From pillows to shawls to blankets, these projects illustrate just how versatile and time-saving this "tail-free" construction method is.
3.
Brett Bara
Clever Crocheted Accessories: 25 Quick Weekend Projects
Crocheters will satisfy their hunger for unique small projects with former Crochet Today editor Brett Bara's Clever Crocheted Accessories. Brett collected 25 delightful, practical pieces that make perfect gifts--though you may be tempted to keep them all to yourself!
The ideal curator, Brett shares a first-rate lineup of projects. Whether you are a beginner or experienced crocheter, there is something for everyone: hats and caps, including a cloche, porkpie hat, and tam; scarves, shawls, and cowls, from chunky to drapey to snug; eye-catching mittens and arm warmers; delicate lace socks and cozy man-slippers; flirty bags; and sparkly jewelry. Each piece is designed with standout details so that even the simplest pattern has that "wow" factor by showcasing lust-worthy yarn, an unexpected technique, or a fun embellishment. Techniques you'll discover include Tunisian crochet, broomstick lace, and Bruges lace.
The all-star roster of designers includes Robyn Chachula, Doris Chan, Mari Lynn Patrick, Regina Gonzalez, Drew Emborsky, Linda Permann, Kristin Omdahl, Ellen Gormley, Cal Patch, Pamela Wynne, Linda Cyr, and Vickie Howell.
4.
Robyn Chachula
Baby Blueprint Crochet: Irresistible Projects for Little Ones
Robyn Chachula's first book, Blueprint Crochet, introduced American readers to crochet stitch diagrams used by crocheters throughout the world, demonstrated on contemporary designs for women. Although written-out directions are more common to American readers, diagrams are the standard in international crochet patterns. Once crocheters understand the symbols, the diagrams are often easier to follow than written directions. Now with Baby Blueprint Crochet, Robyn offers the opportunity to practice these new skills and techniques on smaller, less daunting projects.
The modern baby garment and accessory patterns in Baby Blueprint Crochet are designed to appeal to moms and kids as well as crocheters: no frilly stuff, no scratchy yarns that make the baby red, and no heirloom afghans to keep out of baby's hands. Instead, the projects are contemporary and bright, fun, fashionable, useful, and launder easily. The nineteen projects include girls' garments, such as a jumper and tunic; boys' garments, including a jacket and a vests; accessories from hats to slippers and even diaper covers; and home items including blankets and toys.
5.
Kristin Omdahl
Crochet So Fine: Exquisite Designs with Fine Yarns
Kristin Omdahl's Crochet So Fine takes crocheted clothing from fussy to fashionable! By working with thinner yarns and more flexible stitches, crocheters can produce garments that are stylish and comfortable, figure-flattering without being form-fitting and great for layering. And just because the yarn is thin doesn't mean crocheters need to use the smallest of hooks, fine crochet can be quick and easy, too.
Crocheters begin by exploring techniques specific to crocheting with fine yarns: gauge, blocking, and garment construction tips to maximize drape. Then they can choose from 20 projects including stunning crocheted pullovers, cardigans, jackets, capes, shawls, scarves, hats, and more. Many of the projects only require one or two skeins of yarn. The designs are interesting to make, using clever stitch motifs, innovative and traditional shaping methods, and a variety of crochet techniques and embellishment ideas. In addition to a variety of stitch patterns, motifs, and techniques, Crochet So Fine includes tutorials with detailed illustrations and instruction on Tunisian crochet, broomstick crochet, and hairpin lace. The garments include couture details such as colorwork, beading, lace, ruffles, tiers, and more. All stitch motifs include charts, and the specialized techniques include how-to sections.