Crochet

Patterns, projects and techniques

Book review- CONTEMPORARY CROCHET

by

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Here’s a new book by Sys Fredens.  Contemporary Crochet , I was not familiar with this designer/author, but I sure do like her designs!  I am currently working on one of the pullovers in this book for my daughter.  Not only did my daughter approve the design and yarn I chose, the sweater is actually fitting her nicely!  A win for me as my daughter is not generally fond of my crochet.

Great thing about this book – the sweaters are constructed from the TOP DOWN.  Hooray!  A designer who finally listened to me (us??);-)  Top down is such a great way to crochet a sweater as one can try it on throughout its construction to be sure it fits.

The book includes numerous color photos, often showing the design from more than one angle, and with simple schematics for each.  There are sweaters, shells, bags, hats, mittens, and shawls.  The shell I’m making is the Summer Top with Shoulder Bands on pages 44 and 45. With 37 designs included, there’s a good selection included.  Yarn selections tend to be generic too – so no high end yarn prices to contend with.

The patterns are very basic, assuming a knowledge of and experience with garment construction.  This can be a problem for beginners, but the schematics and photos will help as the designs are not terribly complex.  I believe this book would be a great addition to anyone’s crochet library with the exception of a rank beginner.

Published by Martingale Publishers, 2009

94 pages

$21.99 (well less than $1 per design!!)

ISBN 1564778975

Comments

  3. I am just crazy about the top down method of crochet. I have just finished my first garment using this method and not only is it beautiful, it fits and was a breeze to make. Other garment-making attempts have not been successful because of all the variations of the different parts and construction at the end, when it’s too late to make any adjustments, short of reworking the pieces.

Have you read?

Lightweight Lacy Crochet Tee Pattern That’s Perfect for Layering

Some crochet garments look beautiful on the hanger but feel awkward to wear. This Lacy Crochet Tee from Lana Grossa is not one of those pieces. It’s light, breathable, and very much designed to be worn — the kind of handmade top that slips easily into your everyday wardrobe without feeling “too precious.”

What immediately stands out is the openness of the stitch pattern. It has that airy, lacy feel that works so well for warmer weather or for layering over a tank or dress. This isn’t a heavy, structured garment; it’s soft and fluid, with just enough texture to make it interesting while still letting the yarn shine.

From a making point of view, this tee is a really enjoyable project if you like crochet that feels calm and rhythmic. The lace pattern keeps your hands engaged without constant counting or frustration, which makes it perfect for evening crochet or quiet weekend sessions. It’s also very satisfying watching the fabric grow — those lacy stitches really show progress quickly.

Skill-wise, this one is best suited to confident beginners moving into intermediate crochet. You don’t need advanced shaping skills, but being comfortable with stitch patterns and keeping even tension will make the process much more enjoyable. If you’ve been wanting to dip your toe into wearable crochet without tackling a full sweater, this is a great place to start.

What I really appreciate about this pattern is how versatile it is. Change the colour and fibre and it can feel casual and beachy or clean and modern. It’s the kind of tee you’ll reach for again and again, especially when you want something handmade that still feels light and effortless.

If you enjoy crochet garments that are wearable, practical, and quietly stylish, this lacy tee is a lovely pattern to have in your collection.