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The Crochet Stitch Handbook: The Essential Illustrated Reference: Over 200 Traditional and Contemporary Stitches with Easy-to-Follow Charts

The Crochet Stitch Handbook  fully explains over 200 stitches. A perfect starter guide for beginners, with advanced projects and details for experts, this book is a wonderful addition to the library of any crafter, crocheter, or knitter.

The handbook includes step-by-step instructions for basic stitches, textured stitches, fans and shells stitches, mesh and filet stitches, openwork and lace stitches, trims and edgings, clusters, puffs, bobbles, spike, relief, Tunisian, multi-color, squares, and special stitches.

Crochet is the technique of making a looped fabric from a continuous length of yarn, using a single hook. The word crochet  itself derives from the French croc , meaning a hook (or crook); an old Scottish name for crochet is "shepherd's knitting." It is one of the most portable and flexible of crafts , requiring only a hook and some yarn. 

Master the basic techniques of crochet, and more, to create a fascinating variety of effects with  The Crochet Stitch Handbook .

 

224 pages, Hardcover

Published October 9, 2018

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About the author

Betty Barnden

69 books6 followers
BETTY BARNDEN is the author of 200 Knitting Tips, Techniques & Trade Secrets and is an experienced needlecraft designer. Betty has designed hundreds of knitting patterns for various companies and her knitwear, embroidery, and crochet designs have appeared in many magazines. She also designs embroidery projects and kits.

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5 stars
25 (53%)
4 stars
19 (40%)
3 stars
1 (2%)
2 stars
2 (4%)
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0 (0%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
Profile Image for Claudia.
1,017 reviews800 followers
October 28, 2018
This is a very informative and well-organized crochet guide. It begins with basic steps, hooks and yarns types, followed by a comprehensive chart of stitches symbols and their explanations, therefore it is a perfect start for a beginner.

These are followed by a lot of stitch techniques variations, from simple to more advanced; plenty to choose from.

However, there is one major shortcoming: the colors chosen for the samples are the most unfortunate I have ever encountered in a book of this kind or anywhere else.

Crocheting is for most a hobby, a way of relaxation and even if it’s a way of life, it is about colors; vibrant colors to please the eye. Seeing the samples depicted here, makes me want to find something else to do…

Harlequin Stitch

In this book:



Elsewhere:





Granny’ Squares

In this book:



Elsewhere:



Crochet with beads

In this book:



Elsewhere:



And these are just 3 examples. All samples are like this; some you can’t even understand what type of stiches are if not for the patterns below them. The few flowers models here are all brown…

My final opinion is that although it’s quite a comprehensive guide and the models and patterns are explained very clear and concise, I would not buy the book because of its unattractive colors. I should be drawn by a particular model to try it; however, seeing the samples, this desire simply does not exist.

However, if you are interested just in techniques, this is a good choice for its easy explanations and multiple choices.

Note: If these are not the final colors for the samples in the book, I ask the publisher to notify me and I will remove the pictures.

>>> ARC received thanks to Quarto Publishing Group - Chartwell Books via NetGalley <<<
70 reviews
November 6, 2018
A handy reference book and on the whole very good layout and excellent catalogue of the different stitches, which includes Tunisian crochet. There is a very clear introductory chapter that shows how to begin crochet with some good diagrams that I think any beginner would be able to follow, following which come the chapters which are very well ordered and categorised into the different stitches, from basic to the more complex. Each stitch is illustrated extremely well and the pictorial crochet representations found in some crochet patterns are also well illustrated and explained.

There are no patterns at all in this book, but that's fine - it is what it says on the cover, a reference guide to the different stitches, so that if following a pattern for a garment or something for the home, you can use the book as a handy reference if you've forgotten how to form a specific stitch.

However, for me there were two major drawbacks.

The first drawback was that this is an American book and there is not even a reference that I could find to tell you that in the UK even the basic stitches have different names ... so we are introduced, for example, to the very basic 'half double crochet' (hdc) stitch, but in the UK this is actually called a half treble' (htr) stitch. This is just one of several examples and you can see how confusing this would get to British crotcheters. I therefore wouldn't even think of recommending this book in the UK. That said, it could be an excellent resource for those living in the USA and linked countries.

The second drawback is that I feel the choice of colours and yarns used to illustrate the stitches is very poor. It looks as if a shiny 'perle' type of yarn is used in most of the images, which unfortunately does not photograph well and we cannot see the definition of the patterns very clearly. This is particularly important where we want to see the effect of using multiple colours or the addition of decorative elements such as beads. This problem is beautifully illustrated by another reviewer, who has kindly illustrated this point with examples (Claudia's review - thank you, Claudia).

In summary then, a good reference guide but I would probably recommend it to experienced crocheters who would value such a reference but would already have in their heads a visual catalogue of what different designs can look like ... but perhaps not for beginners or those seeking creative ideas or inspiration, because of the limitations of the images shown.
Profile Image for Julie Barrett.
9,375 reviews217 followers
October 18, 2018
The Crochet Stitch Handbook by Betty Barnden The Essential Illustrated Reference: Over 200 Traditional and Contemporary Stitches with Easy-to-Follow Charts by Betty Barnden
First time author for me. I am a self taught published corchet designer of baby afghans so am excited to be able to find out more about crochet. I also knit and have many reference books on hand.
This book fascinates me because it's primarily set up in the same way as my knitting reference books-so detailed and orderly.
Lots of colorful pictures of patterns in swatches throughout the book that I love.
Table of contents where stitches and patterns are categorized for ease of finding what you are looking for.
Has so many resources including how to use the book, equipment and charts of sizes available and which to use and which yarns.
Diagrams show you how to do the stitches while words explain also how to do the stitch.
I only know about 6 different stitches but always willing to learn and use more of them. Stitch selector for me is the best part of this book.
Each swatch is shown with it's name and if you select one it will show you how to do the stitch pattern.
Love how the categories are color coorindated also. Like chevrons and can imagine them in infant charity afghans I make.
Each swatch is also shown in chart format if you are more familiar with working the stitches that way.
Some stitches seem challenging to me and I can't wait to give them a try especially because the directions are so straight forward.
What a treasure, A KEEPER!
Received this review copy from Quarto Publishing Group - Chartwell Books via Netgalley and this is my honest opinion.
#TheCrochetStitchHandbook #NetGalley

1,292 reviews14 followers
November 15, 2018
I’ve knit hundreds of socks, sweaters, shawls, mittens, hats, barnyard animals and angels. I’ve crocheted exactly one project, a Guatemalan tapestry crochet bag from a pattern in a twenty year old Piecework magazine. Recently, though, I’ve begun to see crocheting in a new light. Perhaps it doesn’t have to be all lacy doilies (although Pinterest and Ravelry really do have a lot of crocheted flowers…)

With that in the back of my mind, I requested The Crochet Stitch Handbook from Net Galley, pulled out some beautiful mercerized cotton I’ve had stashed, a few crochet hooks of various sizes, and away I went. Its been a fun adventure.

The Handbook gives very clear instructions for beginners, and it doesn’t take long to start. I’ve worked my way through the basics, and taken a deep dive into a few of the textured stitches. I’ll be avoiding the flowers, but there is plenty here for even the floral averse.

I heartily recommend the Handbook for curious cross-over handwork enthusiasts. It may change your mind about crochet!

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Profile Image for marlin1.
763 reviews23 followers
October 13, 2018
Learning to crochet has been on my 'to do' list as I get older and I have a hankering to crochet a tea cosy

This book was really interesting and very visual. It describes everything in easy detail with simple diagrams. It has lovely simple colourful pages showing different stitch patterns....who knew there were so many patterns to crochet. It also goes into what I would imagine would be more intricate/involved patterns (remember I'm a novice)

It shows a number of different square patterns, shapes and motifs, circles and others shapes.

I was hoping for some basic patterns, especially a tea cosy but then I realised the book was called 'The Crochet Stitch Handbook' and for that matter it fitted the title perfectly. Now I must apply some new found knowledge and make my tea cosy!

Thankyou to Netgalley and the Publisher for a copy to read
Profile Image for Ren.
1,290 reviews15 followers
October 12, 2018
A handy reference of crochet stitches. Each stitch pattern is shown charted as well as including complete written directions. Basic crochet skills are also covered for those needing a refresher or new to the craft. One of the best parts is the visual list of stitches in the beginning. Each stitch is represented by a thumbnail photo making it quick to find the stitch you're looking for even if you don't know the name of the stitch without needing to flip through the whole book. All books of stitch patterns and project patterns should be presented this way.

Thank you to Betty Barnden, Quarto Publishing Group - Chartwell Books and NetGalley for the opportunity to review this book. All comments are my own, unbiased opinion.
Profile Image for Carey’s Reviews.
652 reviews28 followers
December 2, 2018
4 Stars!! This is the most informative book for crochet I have ever read! I’m a total beginner & this book has taught me quite a bit. The pictures/drawings were so helpful!!! That being said, I still can’t do it!! I’m so frustrated!! I don’t think I have the patients required to crochet! If I had an actual book & not the ebook version, I would have thrown it across the room! Haha! I can’t stand not being able to do something right on my first try!(or in this case, the 100th try! I might need an actual person to get me started.) Very helpful book & I definitely recommend it for anyone trying to learn to crochet!
*I received this book at no charge from the publisher.*
Profile Image for Ann T.
444 reviews
December 31, 2018
Thank you Quatro Publishing - Chartwell Books and Netgalley for an ARC of this book in return for my honest opinion.

This book is a fantastic resource for different levels of crotcheters. I am a complete beginner who hopes to begin making a few simple squares and eventually a throw blanket or two. I have confidence that this book will help me to get started and continue to be a fantastic guide throughout my journey. There are plenty of move advanced stitches for the future if I progress well.

The stitches are shown with really well explained pictures guides. The book is laid out in an easy to understand manner.

Thank you for the opportunity to read and review this book.
Profile Image for Carissa.
3,456 reviews95 followers
October 17, 2018
I think this book is perfect for someone who is just learning and who wants to learn a variety of stitches. I love the detailed technical diagrams and how the different strands are multi colored so its easier to see. I also love how there is a black arrow showing which loop to guide yarn through.
4,127 reviews115 followers
October 27, 2018
Chartwell Books and NetGalley provided me with an electronic copy of The Crochet Stitch Handbook. I was under no obligation to review this book and my opinion is freely given.

Beginners can use The Crochet Stitch Handbook as a starting point, although I did find the explanation of the shorthand used in charting the particular projects to be confusing. It may just be something to get used to, as this shorthand seems to be pretty standard. The introduction is quite helpful, as the author describes the different tool sizes and how to choose yarn and supplies. Page 15 is the most essential in the book for beginner, as the author describes the process of how to start.

This handbook is a handy reference guide, as the author painstakingly goes through every possible stitch and all of the fundamentals about crocheting. I particularly liked the pages called Stitch Selector (pp. 44-51) because the author shows the finished patterns/blocks with the associated page numbers, so that beginners can see what they are supposed to look like. I also love the practice pages, where crafters can learn the different crochet stitches.

The Crochet Stitch Handbook is designed for practice, as there are no projects to finish. I wish the author had included a simple project, such as a scarf or a hat, so that crafters may have something more than just practice pieces to show for their hard work. Overall, this handbook is ideal for crochet enthusiasts of any skill level, as it can serve as a reference to those experienced or practice for beginners.
Profile Image for Deborah.
971 reviews4 followers
December 2, 2018
This is a handy reference book to have. It has an overall layout that starts from beginner and progresses to more difficult stitches. It is not a pattern book, but various stitches that can be used for a multitude of projects. It is strictly a reference guide that can be used to find that perfect stitch to use for a project or to learn something new.

I liked the book but there were a couple of drawbacks. The biggest problem is that this book only references the stitch names as they are referred to in the United States. I happen to live here so that is fine with me, but it is more commonplace to give the UK equivalent as well. By leaving those out, you effectively cut Europe out of your book!

The second drawback is the photographs. The amount of them was good and it gives you an understanding at each step of a particular stitch. The problem is the color choice of the yarn to use. It seemed to have a sheen on it and at times made it difficult to see what they were wanting you to realize. I think if a different color would have been utilized, it would have made it a tad easier on the eyes to distinguish the stitches.

All in all, I feel it is a good reference book to have at your disposal.
Profile Image for Nicki Markus.
Author 53 books302 followers
October 12, 2018
The Crochet Stitch Handbook is a lovely compendium for any crocheter. It features a wide range of stitches, all presented in an easy-to-read, easy-to-follow format. The large number of images, including a pictorial stitch index, is very welcome, as they give you an idea of how each stitch should appear when completed. It's also useful to have introductory information on crocheting for those picking up the book while still new to the craft. As a recent crochet-newbie myself, I am on the hunt for the best stitch handbook to add to my library, and having now viewed this one, it is definitely a strong contender for purchase, since I liked its clear, no fuss approach. The only thing I wasn't 100% keen on was the printing of the charts in colours. Some were fine, but others could be a bit tough on the eyes. Black, or at least darker shades, might have worked better. Also, in a few of the photos, the stitches aren't as clearly visible as in others. But those are small gripes, and in all other ways, this book provides an excellent resource.

I received this book as a free eBook ARC via NetGalley.
Profile Image for Jennifer.
473 reviews9 followers
November 9, 2018
Ok, crafty people, pay attention! If you want, or need, to up your crochet game, then check out this book. There are stitch patterns in here that I’ve never even dreamt of. I haven’t been crocheting much in the last couple of years but I found all kinds of inspiration packed into this one. The book is organized with an opening section on the basics, as you would expect. I found the stitch illustrations were very well done and easy to see the required movements of hook and yarn. The rest of the book is divided into section by stitch type, such as, Textured Stitches, Openwork and Lace Stitches, and Clusters, Puffs and Bobbles. There’s also an entire section on Trims and Edgings, which I’ve rarely seen, and one devoted to making shapes of all kinds. Every pattern has written instructions, a color picture of a swatch, and a graph of the stitch. I was especially intrigued by the graphs because I’ve never been comfortable using them and practicing stich patterns seems like a great way to learn how to read them properly. Overall, I found this book to be well organized, well written, and packed with useful information. I highly recommend it.
Profile Image for Anne Bollmann (Annelise Lestrange).
763 reviews76 followers
November 25, 2018
*~.Book Analysis.~*
Just remembering that those were my impressions and opinion as a reader :)

Rating: 5 stars
Reading period: Nov. 25th, 2018
Format: ebook
Source: NetGalley – I have received this book in exchange for an honest review.
Release date: Oct. 10th, 2018


PROS
This is a true guide on how to do Crochet Stitches! I have never attempted it before, but I simply LOVE crafting, so I picked up this book to have a general idea of what I’d be doing if I started to do Crochet Stitches. I’ve been truly inspired and learned enough to want to carry on with this hobby =D

CONS
Crochet Stitches are harder than one would expect – if you blink at the wrong turn of the needle, the pattern dies. I honestly found this part very worrisome.

COVER ANALYSIS
Simple, clean and fresh: all the stuff that Crochet Stitch isn’t about make up for a perfect book cover. I wish I had a physical copy at my shelf…

RECOMMENDED FOR
Readers with a passion for DIY works!
Profile Image for Debra.
665 reviews6 followers
December 19, 2018
This book was different from the other crochet books I have read. Typically a crochet book would give instructions on several different stitches and then have detailed instructions on crochet projects (blankets, hats, toys). As referenced on the book cover, this book did not have any full project ideas.

This book focused more on the many different crochet stitches. It would be a great resource for an advanced crocheter. There were ten pages of what they called “stitch selector”. The stitch selector had full-color swatches of different stitches with a page number next to it so you could find the stitch to read the patterns for the stitches. It would be helpful to understand the crochet abbreviations for understanding the stitch patterns.

One negative aspect of this book is the yarn colors they choose. It would have been easier to see the definition of the stitches if they used more contrasting colors.

I received this galley from NetGalley.
Profile Image for Doreen Prentiss Gabriellini.
588 reviews
October 26, 2018
The Crochet Stitch Handbook - The Essential Illustrated Reference: Over 200 Traditional and Contemporary Stitches with Easy-to-Follow Charts by Betty Barnden is an awesome book. It has easy to understand diagrams from beginning stitches to special stitches. I have read many crochet books over the years but I would have to say that this is the most comprehensive one. Each of the 200 stitches has a key which lists the types of stitches used in that particular pattern/stitch. The directions are concise and clear and easy to understand. I would highly recommend this book not only for beginners but for those who wish to extend their knowledge in the more detailed and specialty stitches. Well Done!
I would like to thank Betty Barnden, Quarto Publishing Group - Chartwell Books and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Mary.
1,865 reviews17 followers
October 17, 2018
Great reference book for all crafters! Been crocheting since young teens and wish I had this book over the decades as some things change (like crochet hook sizes) and some things stay the same (like broomstick lace). Appreciate the hand drawn images and photos as well as varying the color scheme to better visualize the stitches and avoid confusion. This book opened my eyes to new ways to crochet other than just single and double stitches. Time to get some yarn and start hooking!
I received an arc in exchange for my honest review.
Profile Image for Hristina.
536 reviews79 followers
November 3, 2018
This is a very helpful guide to a whole lot of crochet stitches, from the most common ones to some more complicated ones. Both the language used and the charts are very clear and understandable, it's very easy to follow which is the biggest thing when it comes to books like this one.
I really enjoyed what it had to offer, I learned a few new stitches that I'm looking forward to use soon. I recommend it. It's a great guide for everyone, from beginners who have no idea how to start, to experts who need a refresher.

*Copy received through NetGalley
*Rating: 5/5 stars
Profile Image for Trish G.
112 reviews43 followers
November 26, 2018
This book covers every stitch that I could think of and more! It is a priceless resource for anyone from a general crafter to professional crocheter. The beginning of the book covers all of the basics that is needed from tools and how to use all of the stitch patterns. The remainder of the book is filled with an enormous selection of stitches and directions complete with photos of a swatch for each one.

With this valuable resource, you will be creating something unique and beautiful in no time at all.

I was provided a digital copy from the editor and author in exchange for my honest review.
Profile Image for Ann.
6,241 reviews90 followers
October 22, 2018
This is a great book with a very comprehensive collection of crochet stitches. Good simple directions and illustrations make it easy to follow. Good glossary and table of contents. Wonderful gift for the needleworker in your family. From simple to complex it has something for every level of crochet fanatic. I received a copy of this arc in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Profile Image for Jeanne Grace.
350 reviews12 followers
October 23, 2018
I received an Advanced Reader Copy from Chartwell Books for my unbiased opinion of the book. This book is a must have for any beginner and a great reference book for a seasoned crocheter. It has everything. I have never seen anything as comprehensive as this book. I will be giving this out as Christmas gifts. I can't wait to try all these stitches!!!
Profile Image for Arlene Arredondo.
567 reviews11 followers
October 25, 2018
Loved this guide.
It is a great source of inspiration for new projects with an amazing collection of crochet stitches.
The instructions are easy to follow, and there are pictures of samples made of each point stitch.

Note: I received and ARC for review purposes and an honest and unbiased opinion.
660 reviews17 followers
November 29, 2018
Great book on showing you over two hundred diff crochet stitches, from the basics to openwork and lace, tunisian and more.

Good photography to explain the basic stitches, plus photographs of all the made up stitches so you can see what it looks like once made up.

I received this book from netgalley in return for a honest review
Profile Image for Hayzbaw.
281 reviews
September 3, 2020
There were stitches in this book that I had never heard of or seen before. This book is American so the stitches are called slightly different things in Australian and English patters. I wouldn't suggest this book for beginners, although the detail is great there isn't enough if you are a beginner. I will be purchasing this book for myself.
Profile Image for Polly Krize.
2,135 reviews44 followers
November 15, 2018
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.

A very handy guide to over 200 different crochet stitches, valuable to beginner and more advanced crocheters alike. The colors in the pictures may be a little off, not sure... but irregardless, a good stitch dictionary.
Profile Image for Vanessa.
331 reviews7 followers
October 16, 2018
What an informative book.
I am a constant winter crocheter, but by no means a professional and I found this book so informative and quite different to other crochet "Bibles" out in the world.
Lots of information as a new crocheter, also lots of information for experienced, like starting and ending colours, adding borders, changing colours, and quite a few new block and edging styles that I haven't seen before.
I will definitely be purchasing this one when released for all my crochet friends.
Thankyou for the opportunity to review this title and I will put it to good use.
Profile Image for Jo.
649 reviews4 followers
October 18, 2018
#TheCrochetStitchHandbook #NetGalley

A very good way to learn about the crochet stitch from A to Z. The book starts with an introduction of a basic and intermediate set of stitches. Then, the author added chapters like a catalog about the textures & patterns illustrated with colorful pictures and illustrations. One of my favorites features of this book is the clarity of the tutorials. The tutorials are easy to understand and replicate without a problem,
Profile Image for Vanessa.
3,516 reviews30 followers
October 19, 2018
There are so many Books on the market and its becoming harder to find a good Crochet book that's Crammed with so much information that will help a beginner to rochet and for someone who has been crocheting a long time. So Essential Handbook Of Crochet Stitches: Over 200 Traditional And Contemporary Stitches With Easy To Follow Charts by Betty Barnden was a great find.
Its wonderfully illustrated throughout with lots of information and "clear" instructions and guidelines how to do new crochets stitches. It's easy to follow and just love the Stitch Collection chapters with Photos of the crochet stitches with a diagram of the stitch with a great illustration on how to crochet it. The tutorials etc are easy to understand and follow without a problem.
This is a must crochet book and so much better than some of the expensive ones you can purchase out there......I just had to go and buy this myself!

I would highly recommend this book. Plus a great Christmas Stocking filler.......Just Excellent

Big Thank you to Netgalley for this review copy from Quarto Publishing Group - Chartwell Books via Netgalley and this is my honest opinion.
516 reviews3 followers
October 20, 2018
I read this book the moment that I received it. From cover to cover it shows how crotched stitches are supposed to look. It begins with descriptions and photos of types of yarn and what each should or should not be used for. I found that I knew very little about yarn before reading this.

​It followed with supplies necessary. While this is basic. I finally understood the importance of gauge.

​The remainder of the book showed stitches and how to make them. They went from the simple single crotched stitch to very beautiful and complicated stitches and patterns. I did discover that I was doing a basic stitch incorrectly.

​Aside from the things that I learned in reading this book, there was a lot of new information and stitch patterns. The pictures are colored and clear. It is delightful to pick out the one for your next project. However, there are so many to choose from (unlike similar books that only offer a few ideas) that like me you will probably change for mind at least once before deciding.

​A great source for new crocheters or a reference book for experts.



A received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews