Crochet

Patterns, projects and techniques

A Gift For Me!

by

 

 

A friend recently gave me this book.  She doesn’t crochet (or knit) and has little knowledge of other needlearts, but she’s quite good at choosing books!  This one is a keeper.  It’s small enough to tuck in a bag and fun enough to experiment with a variety of stitches.  Not only is each stitch pattern in the book accompanied with a written description and a chart, but there are some patterns in this book I’ve never seen before.

One of my favorites, based only on the picture and pattern in the book, is one called ‘alternating wedges’.  There is an entire section in this book on wedge patterns.  There is also a section on Wings.  Have you ever seen that?  Curved and more traditional looking wings.  I can think of some good uses for these patterns.

Another section entitled ‘Simple Textures’ includes the usual front loop only and back loop only – but also middle loop only – something I’ve never seen elsewhere, although I think I’ve done it a few times by accident!

There’s a lot in this little book.  I do wish that some of the more intricate patterns were accompanied with larger pictures so I could have a clearer idea of how the pattern would appear in a garment or as part of an afghan.

I was fortunate enough to receive this book as a gift.  I recommend it to you as a wonderful addition to your crochet library – or to give as a gift to an advanced beginner or more experienced crocheter.

Book Specs:

Textured Crochet

St Martin’s Griffin Press, 2007

Paper over board cover with spiral binding (wonderful!)

96 pages with numerous color photos

ISBN:  9780312373757

List Price $16.95 USD

Comments

  1. Well, that book just went on my wish list. You are lucky to have such a good friend who knows you well. By the way HAPPY THANKSGIVING, a bit late. sorry

  3. I can’t believe I had a book that you didn’t have. 🙂 I looked that up and the only problem I have is figuring out what they are calling the middle loop. lol I sure do with it have pics showing what they did.

Have you read?

Whip It Up Crochet Blanket – Free Pattern

This Free Whip It Up Crochet Blanket Pattern from Mary Maxim looks like pure comfort crochet. It is a free download for a crochet afghan, and Mary Maxim describes it as a beautifully textured blanket with a plush, soft texture designed to be worked up quickly.

The yarn choice is what really sets the tone here. This pattern uses Bernat Blanket Extra Thick, with 5 skeins and a U.S. U/50 (25 mm) crochet hook. That puts it firmly in the jumbo-yarn category, which usually means fast progress, chunky stitches, and that lovely instant-gratification feeling where the blanket actually starts looking like a blanket very quickly. Mary Maxim lists the yarn as weight 7 jumbo.

The finished size is also generous at 52 x 60 inches, so this is more than a tiny lap throw. It sounds like a proper snuggle-on-the-sofa blanket, and one that would make a nice gift as well. Mary Maxim specifically suggests it as a throw for home décor or as a thoughtful handmade present.

Skill-wise, this one looks very approachable. The page lists it as Beginner / Easy, and the stitch requirements are simple: chain, double crochet, repeat, single crochet, and slip knot. That makes it a good option for newer crocheters who want a chunky blanket project without too much fuss, or for more experienced crocheters who just want something relaxing and cozy on the hook.

I also think this is the kind of pattern that has strong appeal for anyone who likes fast, useful projects. Jumbo yarn blankets are not subtle, but that is part of their charm. They feel squishy, dramatic, and very giftable. Sometimes you want a delicate heirloom project, and sometimes you want a big soft blanket that feels like crocheting with a cloud. This one definitely leans toward the second category. That last part is my take based on the listed materials, size, and description.