| Crochet Compendium, the Ultimate Collection of Crochet Techniques |
 |
 |
 |
| Written by Barbara Rottman | |||
Title: Crochet Compendium, the Ultimate Collection of Crochet Techniques
Author: Connie Ellison, editor Date Published: 2011 Review Date: June 30, 2011
Who is this book for? The editors at Annie’s Attic combined their best-selling technique books into one volume of crochet techniques. The subdued cover is reminiscent of no-nonsense Victorian manuals like the Weldon series or the Settlement Cookbook, but inside are colorful diagrams and photos to illustrate each of the 16 techniques and their attractive companion projects. Beginners will find the chapter on crochet basics a great introduction to crochet and all the techniques included in the book. Those with more experience can perfect their techniques, learn new skills and advance to using symbol patterns.
What Yarn Does it Feature? We all know from experience that it is much easier to learn new techniques using a medium to bulky yarn. Crochet Compendium introduces 16 techniques and features a practice project using size H crochet hook and medium weight yarn for most. Filet crochet and other lacy projects necessarily utilize finer gauge materials while the cozy hats crocheted with ½-inch wide strips of fleece fabric use much larger scale hooks (L through N).
Using It Readers who browse books and magazines from the back cover to the front like I do will immediately discover the excellent tutorials in the last chapter. This section of Crochet Compendium is not to be missed. It covers nearly everything about basic crochet technique from the ground up. It starts with a basic discussion of materials, the proper names for the parts of the crochet hook (hook end, throat, working area, fingerhold, and handle) and then moves to technique. The step-by-step large scale illustrations are suitable for self-paced learning. Prop the book on a table or lab, grab a hook and some yarn, and learn to crochet! It seems that simple with this clearly illustrated manual that moves from a single chain to rows and patterns. These 10 short lessons illustrate the basic crochet maneuvers. Master increasing, decreasing, edgings, finishing, and pattern reading in the next few pages and you will be ready to try one of the special techniques featured in the compendium. Follow the short tutorial and practice project for any technique featured.
Best Patterns Every now and then someone does come up with a better mousetrap, or at least a clever trick. Check out the simple pompom trick on page 96 and make a fumble-proof pompom template. Another tempting project is the lovely filet tablecloth, perfectly suited for urban or prairie table and rated for intermediate skills. Likewise, the quilt rug and easy slip stitch afghan would be attractive in any home. These heirloom projects are well worth taking the time to learn new crochet techniques.
Recommendation Beginners and more skilled crocheters can use Crochet Compendium to explore a wide range of techniques. It is a valuable reference plus a design book with several projects that anyone would be proud to produce. Stretch your skills and experience the delight of conquering a new technique. Overall Recommendation Crochet Compendium is a comprehensive reference that opens the door to an amazing array of skills and techniques for crocheters of all skill levels. It rates #9.
|
Did you enjoy this feature? Make sure you never miss an issue of Knitch Magazine. To receive alerts for upcoming issues:
