Book Review – Little Crochet Treasures

A Delightful Journey into Crochet Creativity!

Vanessa Mooncie’s Little Crochet Treasures is a must-have for crochet enthusiasts of all skill levels. Whether you’re just starting out or looking for a new challenge, this book offers 18 stunning and imaginative projects that will leave you inspired and eager to pick up your hook.

What sets this book apart is its incredible variety. The projects range from adorable bumblebee brooches and delicate flower corsages to unique cufflinks and tattoo-inspired necklaces. Each item feels like a little work of art, making this book perfect for anyone who loves crafting accessories with a touch of personality.

The organization is fantastic. Divided into four easy-to-navigate sections—brooches; necklaces; hairbands, rings, and charms; and tiepins, cufflinks, and keyrings—you’ll find something for every occasion and style. I especially loved the mod target cufflinks and oak leaf and acorn pendant, which make perfect gifts.

Vanessa’s instructions are clear and well-structured, with hand-drawn charts and detailed patterns that cater to both visual learners and those who prefer written instructions. The techniques section is a real gem, covering everything you need to know to complete the projects confidently.

As a beginner, I found the step-by-step guidance easy to follow, but the more advanced designs gave me something to aspire to as I improve my skills. Experienced crocheters will appreciate the more intricate patterns, like the vintage-inspired tattoo emblem brooches.

The book’s aesthetics deserve a mention too—beautifully laid out with vibrant photography that showcases each project in all its glory. It’s not just a pattern book; it’s a source of inspiration you’ll keep coming back to.

If you’re looking for a creative way to make accessories that stand out, Little Crochet Treasures is worth every penny. It’s not only a joy to use but also a wonderful gift for the crochet lover in your life. I can’t wait to see what Vanessa Mooncie creates next!

Highly recommended for anyone who loves crochet, DIY gifts, or just making something truly unique.

There is something especially charming about a vintage baby dress pattern, and this Crocheted Cutie Dress #3112 has all the details that make older crochet designs so appealing.

The dress features a neatly shaped bodice, short sleeves, contrast stripes and a full lace skirt with a scalloped finish. It has that classic heirloom look without feeling overly formal, which makes it suitable for birthdays, family photos, baby showers or simply as a special handmade outfit.

One of the nicest things about this design is the balance between the structured upper section and the much softer, more decorative skirt. The bodice is worked in a simple repeating texture, while the skirt opens into a detailed lace pattern that gives the dress plenty of movement and fullness. The white trim around the neckline, sleeves and hem also helps define the shape beautifully.

The pattern includes instructions for sizes 1 and 2, with the second size shown in parentheses throughout. As with many vintage patterns, the sizing does not line up neatly with modern age labels, so it is important to check the gauge and finished proportions rather than relying on the size number alone.

This would be best suited to an intermediate crocheter, or a confident beginner who is comfortable reading traditional pattern instructions. The design uses chain stitches, single crochet, double crochet, treble crochet, colour changes, shaping, repeated lace sections and separate pieces that are sewn together during finishing.

The sleeves and collar are made separately and attached to the completed bodice. The back is finished with three buttons, giving the dress a practical opening while keeping the front clean and decorative.

The original version uses pink and white mercerized crochet cotton, but the design works beautifully in more modern combinations too. Sage and cream give it a soft botanical feel, lemon and white make it fresh and summery, while orange and ivory create a much warmer retro look.

Because the pattern was originally written for vintage crochet cotton and a steel hook, I would strongly recommend making a gauge swatch before beginning. Modern threads and hook-sizing systems can vary, and the bodice needs to fit correctly before the lace skirt is added.

The professionally reformatted PDF is much easier to follow than an unedited scan. It keeps the original stitch counts and construction while improving spacing and readability. It also includes a modern mockup and the original vintage reference image, which is helpful when visualising the finished shape.

Overall, this is a lovely pattern for anyone who enjoys making vintage-inspired baby clothes. The lace skirt is the real highlight, but the striped bodice and matching collar give the finished dress a polished, complete look.

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