A VERY USEFUL TOOL FOR CROCHETERS

While researching a completely unrelated topic, I ran across this (new to me) book site, Google Book Search. I am very impressed with the list of crochet books (699) and the previews that are available. Not all books are previewed and some have more extensive previews available than others. Since I have recently held Margaret Huber’s “Plus Sized Crochet” in my hands, I chose it to use as the way to judge the usefulness of this site.

Margaret is an inventive and reliable crochet designer. Her designs are always attractive, she has a wide variety of designs in print, and I know I can count on her to produce a good book. And, if you trust what you read on the internet, many people are looking for good plus sized crochet designs. Margaret’s book is a good addition to the crochet garment library.

The Google Book Search site has a great picture of the cover of this book and a tempting look at the inside of the book to get a good sense of what you’ll be buying. There are good pictures of finished garments, a good sampling of text, complete measurement charts to be sure you’ll fit in her sizes, and even a lengthy excerpt of a pattern to assure you’ll understand the manner in which her patterns are written. What a useful tool!

This site also has links to sites where the book is available for purchase, book prices, and a link to reviews.

I hope more books will be available for preview on this site. I have bookmarked the site and plan on using it routinely for more information about crochet books.

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.

Have you read?