I haven't done a lot of crochet lately, because it hurts my hands. I've been doing more knitting. But there are patterns in this book that make me want to get out the hooks again. I'm especially happy to see beautiful, up-to-date patterns for thread crochet, something that had been relegated to doily making in recent years.
There are an abundance of patterns using various weights of yarn and thread, something for everyone, I think, from easy dishcloth patterns to more complicated thread crochet, even felted slippers and bags. One thing I particularly liked was that many patterns have both round by round instructions as well as charts. I've never learned to read charts--but may on the strength of this book--so I'm glad to see written out instructions as well.
There are several scarves, doll clothes, jewelry, slippers, a kindle cover, gloves, mittens, hats, toys -- a variety of all kinds of patterns, all of them portable, and taking small amounts of yarn or thread. I tend to get bored with projects, so I love these kinds of books with accessory patterns that can be made quickly and carried with me.
Standout patterns for me were:
Blooming Coaster Set. An adorable set of two coasters, one round and one square, done in cotton. These coasters are reminiscent of granny squares, but are done in all white and achieve a lovely elegance.
Burgundy Lace Hoops. Beautiful, sophisticated earrings done in thread crochet over purchased hoops. I love these! I can see making them for myself and all of my friends. There is also a set of patterns for hair scrunchies crocheted over hair elastics, which seems like it might be easier than crocheting around a hard object like an earring. I'll have to try them both and find out!
Beaded Lariat. A necklace made in slip-stitch crochet with beads, which I have never done, but I love the effect and may give it a try.
Switchback Scarf. A really fun design for a long scarf made from sock yarn, and meant to be wrapped around the neck a few times.
WIP Project Bag. A really cute backpack-style bag meant to carry a small (one skein!) project.
Bangle Bracelets. Another project using sock yarn, this time crocheted around old bracelets or cut-down mailing tubes. There is a version with horizontal stripes, and another done vertically.
Putting on the Glitz. A very cute short shrug/bolero shown in metallic rayon yarn.
Gerbera Flower Pins. Crocheted flowers with a button center and a pin back.
There are patterns for several crocheted stuffed toys--a bunny, a dog, a kitty, an alligator, a lobster and a robot.
Spike and Loopy. Two felted bowls for holding small items.
All in all, this is a great book for a crocheter to have in her library. There are lots of fun, quick projects for the short-attention-span crocheter or anyone who wants to make a quick gift for someone.