*Annie’s Attic Crochet Collection

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Written by Barbara Rottman

Title: *Annie’s Attic Crochet Collection

Author: Varied

Date Published: Released 2010

Review Date: March 24, 2010

Who is this book for?

Annie’s Attic just released a new crop of crochet books that promise something for every taste and inclination.

Each book in this collection follows a straightforward template that presents the pattern and instructions in an easy-to-read format. Every Annie's Attic project, even the tiny crocheted embellishments in Little Things is described by its skill level along with the usual information about finished size, materials needed, gauge, pattern notes, instructions and finishing and assembly. All this is supplemented by good color photography, typeface you can actually read, and uncluttered page layouts.

With so many craft books competing for our interest, editors have to make the projects seem as fashionable and attractive as possible. In the long run, however, it takes more than flashy photography to create a following. Clear instructions can make any project fun just as confusing directions will surely lead to frustration and disappointment. The editors at Annie’s Attic use clear-cut, concise instructions to help you get the results pictured in the sample models.

What Yarns does it Feature?

The projects in these books are designed to use readily available products that can be purchased from local craft, fabric and variety stores, or from catalogs. The actual materials used in the models are listed, but generic equivalents are also given so that you can readily make substitutions.

What’s Inside?

The new releases include instructions for making fashionable garments and home accessories; baskets and bowls; lace doilies, scarves and shawls; small “scrap” projects and doll clothes. These projects are sure to inspire. If you’ve never learned to knit, but admire some of the stitch patterns that knitters can achieve, Knit 1, Purl 2 in Crochet shows you how to create similar effects in crochet. Beyond the basic instruction, it includes a stitch dictionary and good-looking projects using a variety of the stitches.

Shawls can be knit in neutral, pastel, or splashy colors and will still complement almost any outfit, occasion or season. You’ll find shawls foreverything from evening to hiking. The photographers even envisioned several shawl as a beach wear, photographing them at the shore. Some of the shawls are perfect for a cold winter’s evening before the fire, while others will lift the chill of summer air conditioning. There are shawls that will chase away autumn chill and wraps that could lead the Easter Parade.

Timeless masterpieces, you can knit these shawls without concern for fleeting fashion. Yarns, however, do come and go from the market, and color preferences change over time. Wisely, the editors included suggestions for substituting yarns when

the original is no longer available. Almost all the yarns are described in terms of standard weight and yardage. With this information, you can make your own substitutions.

Best Pattern

For pure fun, try one of the projects in Holiday itty bitties. The book is filled with doll costumes that look like Japanese Amigurumi, those enchanting crocheted dolls and toys. The word Amigurumi translates to knitted or crocheted doll. Dress and accessorize your dolly for every holiday season. The costumes for 5-inch dolls are complete, down to boots, bloomers and baskets with goodies like Mrs. Santa’s gingerbread cookies and the Easter Bunny’s basket of carrots. Those who want to put their time to more practical use might be attracted to Crochenit Fashions. This collection has a six stylish wardrobe additions for women and children. A word of caution, however: all patterns in this book require an intermediate level of skill using the double-ended crochenit hook.

Recommendation

The simple but clear instructions in Annie’s Attic books make them worthy of your consideration. These books will help you learn a new skill that can lead to hours of enjoyment. Whether you are a new beginner or are returning to needlework years after first learning, you’ll find good instructions for simple projects with readily available materials. Give it a go.

Overall Recommendation overall 6