Member Reviews
DK Publishing hit it out of the park - again. This is THE crochet book you need. The book includes everything you need to get started crocheting - information on tools, techniques along with high-quality photos. What I particularly liked is the format of the book; several techniques were explained and then an appropriate pattern included. to practice those skills. There's a broad range to projects too so even an experienced crocheter might see something new and fun to try (i.e. the adorable octopus mobile!?). This book is a must-have.
Great for New and Experienced Crocheters
I have been crocheting for over 40 years since my mother taught me when I was a child. Yet, I'm still interested in any crochet book that I see. Mom didn't know everything about crochet, and I have not explored all of it yet. This is a really fun book for the beginning crocheter to the advanced. The book is broadly divided into two sections, techniques and projects. The technique section does have some simple projects, though, that go along with the techniques that are near them. As is typical of DK books, this one is lushly photographed, both the techniques and the projects. I like that the introductory sections show all the various tools and implements mentioned. Makes it much easier if you're going to pick any up at your local yarn store! Each technique is clearly photographed, step by step, making it easy to see precisely what you need to do. I like how the book worked from basic knowledge to more complex ideas, from the simple foundational stitches to the intricacies of more complex stitching (e.g., intarsia and broomstick lace) and different shaping, like for motifs and toys. The projects are surprisingly varied and colorful. Many of the colors were not to my taste, but I know well enough how to substitute colors of my own liking. Projects ranged from simple scarves and bags to more intricate apparel and items for home decor… and more. While some projects look like something your granny might make (and, indeed, there are several granny stitch projects, including a turtle backpack!), others are surprisingly fresh and modern. At first, I wasn't sure if there were any projects in here that would interest me until I got to the sections on hand and feet coverings. I love the wristwarmers (I’ll be making some for my mom!) and the very pretty women's socks. If you enjoy crochet, whether beginner or more advanced, you might find this book adds some great techniques and projects to your crochet repertoire.
This is an excellent crochet resource with an overview of supplies, technique, stitches and various interesting projects. I'm a beginner at crochet and what intrigued me initally was cute amigurumi (crochet dolls), so I had purchased "Get Started: Crochet: Learn Something New" by the same publisher, DK, months ago and was able to learn the skills I needed to complete a teddy bear. This book, "Crochet: Over 130 Techniques and Stitches" covers the same basics but expands on that, with DK's well-known clear photos, step-by-step guides, and detailed information. I could see myself flipping through the pages as reference for the stitches and learning to be confident with crochet.
I liked that there are projects that help you practice the technique shown. Then the book has chapters separated by project type, such as, blankets and cushions, home and gifts, hats and scarves, gloves, socks and slippers, what to wear, and toys, with the level of difficulty indicated for each project. There were lots of interesting projects that I would love to try out.
Thank you to Netgalley and DK publishing for an advanced peek at the book, in exchange for my honest review.
Crochet is something I am intrigued by and I was excited to get my hands on this book. As a complete novice I thought that this book offered a lot of valuable information. The book covers a wide array of techniques, stitches and patterns. The book is filled with many beautiful and helpful photos and I felt this was particularly helpful. I will say that I struggled a bit with some of the terms used but again that could simply be because everything is so new to me. I do think that this book will have a broad appeal because I'm finding it helpful and informative and there are some really incredible patterns for projects that are way beyond my not even basic capabilities. I'm just getting started and I'm thankful I have this book to fall back on while trying to learn this new to me skill.
This is a fabulous resource for beginners and advanced crocheters alike. All of the basic stitches are here along with a whole host of specialty stitches. There are beautiful photographs and diagrams that show you exactly what to do very clearly. The book is divided into sections that make sense and starts at the very beginning of a crochet project. Patterns accompany each section and reinforce the material presented.
The difficulty increases gradually as the presentation of stitches and techniques continues. There are a wide variety of projects included, from toys to hats to blankets and lots of other fun things to make. This is the best crochet reference book that I have seen and after 30 years of crocheting I was pleased that there are still techniques that I haven't learned yet. This is an updated version of the book with new patterns included. I highly recommend it for anyone interested in crochet. Note: This guide uses the UK names for stitches.
As a semi self taught Crocheter, I am still learning about patterns, how to read them and what level they are for. However, this book is a great book for beginners/ self taught who still need to learn a few things. I liked how the book was laid out with step by step of basic stitches and moving to slip stitches. This is something I am not super comfortable with but after reading these steps I feel more confident trying them out.
The patterns are not the same you find in most how to books. It is nice to see something a little more challenging and different.
This would make a great present for someone who is interesting in learning how to Crochet.
As a self-taught crocheter with many years of experience, I would have loved a book like this back then. In this second edition, the step-by-step directions are clear and well-illustrated. In addition, as each stitch is taught, the reader is given projects that will allow them to implement the skills they are learning. The book also includes various projects that are wonderful for personal use or as gifts.
If you’re a beginning crocheter or would like a great gift for a beginning crocheter, this is the book to get.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book provided by the publisher and Net Galley. However, the thoughts expressed are totally my own.
I love the very beginner friendly nature of this book. DK has long been a standard for helpful guides, and their crochet books always have great photographs and helpful tips - this one is no exception. It has an excellent walkthrough on different crochet hooks and tools - which is where I happen to geek out so I love that broomstick and Tunisian are introduced! The patterns in this book are approachable projects that don't seem too gaudy or home-crafted looking. For beginners or those coming back to the craft it's best to start with small items to build up that confidence to keep crocheting! I appreciate that the book reflects crochet's move into the modern world of home decor and wearable garments. There are tons of great designs that reflect a lot of trends in crochet and designers on IG and Etsy and other social media platforms. The photographs are helpful as are the project ideas using each pattern to make practical and pretty items! If you love to crochet or are new to fiber arts I think you'll find something to enjoy in this book!
As a lifelong crocheter, I am thrilled to review DK’s newest offering, The Crochet Book. The patterns in this book are gorgeous and accessible for many skill levels.
The best part of the book, aside from the sheer volume of patterns, is the Techniques section. This section shows you how to work many different stitches, including how to increase and decrease for shaping. It has a section about how to block your project plus various notions you might find helpful.
The biggest problem I have with this book is that it uses British crochet terms, which are different than American terms. So, as an American, I am unable to make any of the patterns. However, for those who use British terms to read crochet patterns, you will find a wide assortment of projects. There are blankets, stuffed animals, and even jewelry. There is something to love for every crocheter.
One thing I find odd is that there are several patterns located in the Techniques section. The odd part is that the section right after Techniques is How to Read Crochet Patterns. I don’t understand why the publishers would lay the book out this way.
But the book does a wonderful job of telling you all you need to know to take up the hobby. Even experienced crocheters will find some of the information useful. There is everything from the different kinds of yarn to how to hold your hook. You will find a section on how yarn comes packaged and a section on color theory.
There is much to love about this book, and I recommend it to anyone who loves crochet. Unfortunately, the cover is a bit boring.
I am pleased to award this book 4 out of 5 stars.
This is an awesome resource book with many great patterns!! Lots of pictures and easy for beginners!
Patterns are clear and easy to read even for a beginner. Variety of patterns should appeal to most crochet fans.
There are some cute granny square projects here. The text is a bit overly professional. Some of the other project groups don’t have much that’s appealing to me.
The pictures are clear and the layout is nice.
This is one of the best crochet instructional books I've ever looked through.
Note: I would like to have known it was written in UK terms versus American crochet terms before glancing through. This distinction will be exceptionally helpful to new crocheters who are unfamiliar with the fact there are different terms for UK vs US.
The author/designer of this book goes beyond merely giving you patterns. We are given in-depth pictorial tutorials with each step. There are also yarn size guides, tips, a basic stitch dictionary, instructions for best finishing the projects and so much more. I've read many "learn to crochet" or "I taught myself crochet" type books that were much less through. This pattern and stitch guide is what I wished I had when I first began learning.
Thank you NetGalley for the eARC and a chance to review this book.
I need about 20 copies for my crafty friends!
What a great resource book this is!! I learned to basic crochet over 40 years ago from my mother-in-law, then self-taught with the help of any books I could find! (Internet was not a “thing” then!). I feel that I am always learning and wanting to learn...and this book did just that for me! I enjoyed all the resources they provided from types of yarns and hooks to techniques. The pictures were awesome and extremely helpful. The patterns provided to “show off” techniques were great, user friendly to understand, and at an easy level. This will help a new crocheter so much......I wish I had it when I was teaching myself all those years ago! I loved the variety of patterns in the Project sections of the book too. I see myself making many of these patterns and making use of new crochet stitches I learned from this book. I am often asked to “teach” someone to crochet and I start them out and give them further resources. This will be one that I recommend because to a true crocheter, it is always great to have a printed resource easily available! Thanks to NetGalley and DK for the opportunity to review this book in return for an honest review, which this has been. #NetGalley “Crochet”
This book gives a good general introduction of yarn types, tools/hooks, and basic stitches. I think i still need video in slo mo for some but the illustrations were helpful for the simple ones. Most of the book is project based giving you inspirational pictures and projects ranging from beginner to moderate. IT taught me how to put a bead in the crochet string for jewelry which was something I never would have thought of on my own.
Thanks to netgalley for an ARC to review!
An incredibly helpful guide, especially for a beginner like myself, to explore the world of crochet and the many projects you can create, including amigurumi, too! I'm looking forward to diving even deeper. Will keep in mind for my library's crafting clubs.
Great crochet book for beginners or advanced. I love that they explained a lot about crochet and how to do it and also about patterns. The book has patterns anyone.
Finally! After not being able to download this book I have done it!
A very vivid and complete crochet book! Not only does it have the 'normal' stitches, but I was pleasantly surprised to see filet crochet, tunisian crochet, c2c crochet, intarsia and colorwork to name a few. This book really introduces a beginner to all crochet has to offer and it has become vast. A really complete book for the beginning crocheter, or someone looking to branch out.
An excellent resource for any crochet expert or beginner. The detailed instructions make even the difficult stitches look simple. Beautifully illustrated and well organized. A great craft resource manual for any library.
( received complimentary e-copy for review )
As a crocheter for over 46 years, I am very happy to say that each time I flipped thru this book, I came away with something new. A treasure chest full of foundation, instruction, and ideas. Wonderfully photographed and arranged. This book is a great resource to any crafter's library and would also be right at home as a coffee table book in my house.