My intention was to write this post at least 2 weeks ago, but between volunteer activity deadlines, an education conference, two craft shows, and computer issues, I couldn’t get to this announcement about another book giveaway. The book I am giving away this time is Jane Davis’ Crochet: The Complete Guide, a wonderful resource for anyone who crochets, no matter what level. Although I have been crocheting for almost 40 years, this is one of my favorite resources.
The book is easy to thumb through with only three main sections—one for crochet basics if you’re a beginner or just need to review some stitches, a second section for 162 different stitches spread across 19 categories—among them ruffles and cords, bead crochet and Tunisian crochet, and a final section for seven projects such as a basic bag, a sweater, crochet bracelets, and more.
This page discusses how to do decreases when you have bobbles or clusters.
From left to right: Posts and Vs, Small Cable Post, Bead Lace and CroKnit
Upper left photo, proceeding clockwise: Basic Bag, Beaded Bracelets, Sweater, Sleeveless Blouse
There are three short reference sections that include an introduction describing the differences between yarns ranging from wool to blended, a glossary with common crochet terminology, abbreviations, a stitch symbol chart that is helpful for graphical patterns, and a table for yarn weights. Ever wonder what those numbers on the skein wrapper mean? This book will explain all of them. In the resources section you’ll find a list of Web sites, most of which provide free patterns.
Top: Yarn discussion. Bottom, left: Crochet symbol chart. Bottom, right: Yarn weight guidelines.
This straight-forward book will likely turn out to be one of your favorite crochet references.
To enter the giveaway, let me know in the comments below what crochet project is currently in your work basket. If you’re just learning how to crochet, tell me what you would like your first project to be. I will announce a giveaway winner next week Friday, November 1st, assuming there are at least five entries.
© 2013 Judy Nolan. All rights reserved.
