Book Review
The author explains how to crochet so that anyone can learn how
to do it. After a brief history of crochet and how she got started
crocheting the author dives right in with the breakdown of the crocheting
process. I really like that she has a practical attitude about crocheting
telling the reader to choose a project wisely, one that will suit
your time schedule, budget and needs. The chapters are broken down
into how to choose your materials and hooks, making and measuring
your gauge, how to make sense of patterns and instructions, supplies
you need to have on hand for crocheting, crocheting for beginners
and crochet stitches (chain stitch, single crochet stitch, half-double
crochet stitch, double crochet stitch, triple crochet stitch, slip
stitch). Topics that are also covered include: adding new yarn,
increasing and decreasing various kinds of stitches, creativity
with crochet (crab stitch, crossed stitches, picots, popcorn stitch),
and a very important chapter called “Oops” which is
a must read because when learning anything mistakes are always made.
The author has not only included learning for beginners but also
a section on fancy stitches (filet crochet, open “V”,
two simple double crochet shells, combining a shell and “V”,
Brunswick Stew, the Ripple Afghan stitch, fishnet, arch stitch,
herringbone, diagonal popcorns, lover’s knots, spider web,
up-and-down stitch, my lady’s fan, Queen Anne’s Lace,
) to advance one’s skills. One can also advance their skills
by moving onto the more complex Medallions and Motifs, Lavishing
Laces on Linens, Precious Little Jewels to Add (decorations such
as flowers, butterflies, a star and a four-leaf clover)and Multi-Color
Jacquard Crochet.
The final part of the book is the most important after you have
learned all the stitches and are crocheting smoothly and successfully.
In it you learn how to finish off a project and care for it (including
washing, drying and storage) so all your hard work, time and expense
will be appreciated for a long time. There aren’t many patterns
in Crocheting in Plain English but the focus was on learning to
crochet that this isn’t a minus of the book. I really like
that the first pattern the author has included is a sampler for
beginners or as a refresher for someone who hasn’t crocheted
in awhile. The clear, detailed instructions include a small intro
by the author and a list of materials (with a few brand names of
yarn you could use as well as the type of yarn you should be using
for that particular pattern).
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