Member Reviews

I really enjoy this author's crochet books. Salena Baca knows how to strike a balance between something that is achievable by a hobbyist and something that looks fashionable and not like a home-ec project. I always wish there were a few more patterns in her books!

Thank you to the publishers and NetGalley for the opportunity to review a temporary digital ARC in exchange for an unbiased review.

Was this review helpful?

This book features 6 patterns. The instructions look pretty clear. The sizing appears to be limited to standard sizing, however due to the oversized nature of the styles, they may work for some plus sized crocheters as well. I’d like to try the cropped cable sweater!

Was this review helpful?

Some nice patterns and idea’s in here.

Thank you NetGalley for my complimentary copy in return for my honest review.

Was this review helpful?

The patterns are simple but not flattering. I wish there were more photos of the garments being constructed for reference, not just the finished products.

Was this review helpful?

Although this book doesn't contain very many designs to crochet, the ones it does contain are nice and seem like they would be easy to follow

Was this review helpful?

Oversize Fashion Crochet is a new project tutorial guide collection from Salena Baca. Due out 1st April 2019 from Rowman & Littlefield on their Stackpole imprint, it's 32 pages and available in ebook and paperback formats.

This booklet 6 attractive oversized/loose fit projects which are primarily crochet. All the projects are varied and attractive, including a cardigan, two cocoons, a shawl, a scarf, poncho, and a really pretty cabled (!!) pullover sweater.

This is not a how-to-crochet book. There are no stitch diagrams or explanations (though the author does refer beginners to the American Crochet Association's youtube channel for video instruction). The lack of beginning instruction doesn't detract from the book at all, the information can be found easily online if it's needed. What this book does have is very pretty projects with minimal fuss and little shaping. They're unfussy and not shapeless, despite the lack of fitting. They will suit most body types.

The book includes a thumbnail gallery of projects in the table of contents. There's also a one-page resource list and abbreviations list. The project instructions are written in standard abbreviations, but don't include the 'Japanese' crochet diagrams. They all include simple construction notes and instructions.

Four and a half stars. Worthwhile addition to the crafter's library. Very very short, but a nice collection.

Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes

Was this review helpful?

Really easy to read and really enjoyed making some of the items, I would buy this book for myself and as a gift.

Was this review helpful?

Thank you for my earc of this. Unfortunately because this wasn’t available to download to my kindle it expired before I got a chance to use the patterns! I’m gutted but will hopefully get a copy soon

Was this review helpful?

Oversize Fashion Crochet by Salena Baca is a must-have for anyone looking to create cozy and stylish crochet designs for the cooler months. The book features 6 crochet designs made with bulky yarn and big hooks, including pullovers, cardigans, ponchos, and wraps in easy-to-wear, popular oversized fit.

What I liked most about the book is the variety of designs included, which are both fashionable and functional. The patterns are easy to follow, making them accessible to both beginner and advanced crocheters. The book also features beautiful photography, which showcases the details of each design and provides inspiration for color choices and styling.

Salena Baca, the author, is an experienced crochet designer and author of several other crochet books. Her expertise and experience are evident in the book, which is well-written and thoughtfully organized.

In conclusion, I would highly recommend Oversize Fashion Crochet to anyone looking to create cozy and stylish crochet designs for the cooler months. The book is well-designed, easy to follow, and features a variety of beautiful designs that are sure to inspire and delight any crocheter. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced crocheter, this book is an excellent addition to your crochet library.

Was this review helpful?

This is a cute book! I would have liked to see more than the sample, but from what I saw it's a nice collection of patterns.

Was this review helpful?

Oversize Fashion Crochet: 6 Cozy Cardigans, Pullovers & Wraps Designed with Maximum Style and Ease by Salena Baca is currently scheduled for release on November 7 2023. As the title tells readers, this book offers up 6 crochet designs made with bulky yarn and big hooks. Designs include pullovers, cardigans, ponchos, and wraps in easy-to-wear, popular oversized fit.

Oversize Fashion Crochet is a book that delivers on its promises. It offers readers six patterns, with pictures and finishing instructions. I thought the instructions were easy to understand and follow for all but the newest to crochet. I like that the designer took the time to explain how to get the best fit and explain some of the stitches so that newer crafters can make use of the patterns. I think everything is well done, my only sticking point is that none of these designs are unique. There are similar designs available already in books, magazines, and for free on the internet. It is good for what it is, but is not a book that would make it into my home collection. However, I might check it out from the library and I think it would be a solid addition to a public library collection.

Was this review helpful?

This book offers a variety of wearable projects, including a scarf, some sweaters, and two wraps or "cocoons". The "oversize" in the title refers to the fit of the pieces, not necessarily that they are large size.

The instructions for the projects seem to be well written and easy to follow. One thing I really appreciate about the book is that the projects featured use regular, easy to find yarn and not a super expensive designer type that would be difficult or costly to get. I think that the stitches are easy to master and look great.

One note on the sweaters, however, is that some of the sizing seems wonky - the book has you measure your armspan instead of your bust sometimes, which is not necessarily going to be an indication that the piece will fit correctly. There are some larger-size projects which are called "extra large" instead of a standard 2x or 3x. I was first put off thinking that these patterns were not size inclusive until I did a little more investigating.

So far, I have only made the hooded super scarf, but it worked up quickly using super bulky weight yarn and the instructions were easy to follow and the scarf looks great! (it is very heavy).

I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys crochet and likes the look of oversized pieces. The instructions are easy to follow.

Was this review helpful?

Although the designs and patterns are not what I would call dynamic, clearly written instructions walk even new crocheters through garment construction. The abbreviation list is particularly well written, however, and as a crochet teacher I would recommend this book to individuals or classes just beginning the daunting adventure of sweater making.

Was this review helpful?

Thanks to NetGalley & the publisher for the ARC.

I am an avid crocheter & have been on a sweater/garment kick lately so was excited to see this as an ARC on NetGalley. I did not have time to make any of the patterns, but hope to soon. I really liked that the patterns use bulky yarn & larger hooks so that you can finish a project sooner. I sometimes get impatient to finish projects & enjoy how much faster they seem to go with bulky yarn. I can't speak to the formatting of the book as it seemed to show up funky on my Kindle app & I'm not sure what the final layout is. If you like to crochet with bulky yarn & have been wanting to make garments, this would be a good book to start with!

Was this review helpful?

I loved this Book - Oversize Fashion Crochet by Salena Baca was an excellent book especially if you want to make your own oversized jumpers, a scarf, a poncho, wraps and a cardigan.
There are 6 patterns within this book. The only down fall with this book is that the crochet patterns are in USA terms. But you can work them out yourself to UK terms, like I did using the crochet terms conversion chart. Fingers cross they do this book in UK terms as this book will be a hit in the UK.

The patterns are well written and easy to follow, so don't let the American terms put you off, especially as I am a learn yourself crochet Chick!!!!
This book is suitable for both beginners and more experienced crocheters. With clear instructions with beautiful photographs that not only showcase the finished garments but also serve as inspiration for colour and styling choices. I loved this book............Now waiting for my Yarn to be delivered so I can start creating something else!!!

Big Thank you to Netgalley and Globe Pequot, Stackpole Books for access to this arc in exchange for my honest review.

Was this review helpful?

Salena Baca's latest crochet collection, featuring six designs for cozy, oversized garments, is a delightful addition to any crafter's library, especially as the cooler weather approaches. Baca, known for her accessible and stylish crochet patterns, shines in this collection, offering a variety of designs that cater to a range of tastes and skill levels.

One of the standout aspects of this collection is the use of bulky yarn and large hooks, which not only makes the projects quick to complete but also ensures that the finished products are exceptionally warm and comfortable. The designs, including pullovers, cardigans, ponchos, and wraps, are all in the popular oversized fit, making them perfect for cozying up in during the colder months.

The patterns are well-written and easy to follow, making this book suitable for both beginners and more experienced crocheters. The clear instructions are complemented by beautiful photographs that not only showcase the finished garments but also serve as inspiration for color and styling choices.

Was this review helpful?

I haven't had the chance to make anything out of the book yet, but I read through several of the patterns and it seems easy to follow and I love the designs!

Was this review helpful?

Oversize fashion garments are a welcome addition to any adult wardrobe. Salena Baca, designer, teacher and crochet authority offers six new patterns in her newest crochet paperback book, on sale now, November 2023. I want to thank the publisher, Stackpole Books and NetGalley for my advanced copy. This is my own personal and unsolicited opinion about the book.

The patterns are easy to read and follow, written in U.S. terms. To my knowledge a U.K. version has also been published. The garments are done in simple single and double crochet, back loop, front loop, front or back post stitches. Each project has detailed instructions, measurements, supply descriptions and gauge requirements. Most of the patterns range in sizes from small to extra-large.
I appreciate the easy-to-understand pattern instructions and the project photos done by Julie Lynn Photography are clear and display the garments very well. My immediate favorite is the Hooded Super Scarf. The hooded scarf is done in one piece. I have the yarn and size 9mm hook ready to go. It will be a warm and cozy present for a family member or a great addition to my own winter coat. There is also a Big Cozy Cardigan that I favor. Also offered are two cocoons, a sweater and a poncho.
In my opinion, this is a good book to add to a crochet garment collection if you like over-size, comfy garments to wear or for gift giving. Salena Baca is well known in the crochet community from publications to education and on social media platforms. Her name alone encouraged me to review this offering for those who love crochet.

Was this review helpful?

Nice oversize crochet garments. Easy to follow instructions. Great to have a book for oversize clothes with propper patterns and pictures so you know what they will look like

Was this review helpful?

I really like the Date Nights Cocoon, Big Cozy Cardigan and Cropped Cable Sweater designs that were included. I have crocheted designs by Salena Baca before and have always been pleased with the pattern and finished projects.

I wish the pattern sizes indicated what sizes these oversized garments were meant to fit - will the XLarge fit 2XL/3XL or is it true to size (even though it is 'oversized')?

I don't think this book is designed for newer crocheters as there is no stitch guide, or techniques section. There is a note at the very end with links to online resources with free video tutorials. When I purchase a book I am ok with referencing online instructions/videos as an extra tool but prefer having everything I need to work from in the book itself.

The book does not indicate if the patterns are written in US, or UK Crochet Terms but I am assuming they are US Crochet Terms.

The book looks great on my desktop computer but does not view quite as well on mobile with sections showing up split across more than one line, different font sizes being used in the same paragraphs/sentences, titles displaying in a very light font color and no schematics showing.

Was this review helpful?