Two Simple Shapes = 26 Crocheted Cardigans, Tops & Sweaters: If you can crochet a square and rectangle, you can make these easy-to-wear designs!

by Salena Baca

“These easy-to-follow instructions will have you hooking up a whole new wardrobe of beautiful, creative crochet pieces you will be proud to wear.” —WeCrochet magazine   Making crochet tops has never been so easy! Crocheted squares and rectangles can be shaped and combined to form a surprising array of pullovers, cardigans, lightweight tops, and wraps. Simple instructions will have you creating a variety of gorgeous crochet apparel. Most designs are beginner or intermediate level and build upon your knowledge of basic stitches to create textural styles that look more complex than they are. Crochet two squares to make the Diamond Crop Top, an on-trend lacy look you can whip up quickly, or crochet a rectangle, fold, and add sleeves to make the Goldenrod Cardigan, a squishy, comfy wrap to wear all year. Sumptuous yarns in gorgeous colors from Lion Brand’s vast selection of yarns were chosen for the pattern samples shown in this book, assuring that all of the yarns used are easy-to-find, affordable options. Crochet in the colors shown, or try your own color scheme. Lion Brand yarns have a large selection of colors from which to choose, so enjoy the yarn aisle!

Genres: Crochet, Nonfiction, Reference, Crafts

247 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 14, 2023

Reviews

[Sue · Rating 3 out of 5]

The projects in this book look amazing, but I noticed that each model looked extremely posed in the pictures. I have a sneaking suspicion that when the pose is dropped the garment drops also and looks more like a too small afghan or too large scarf, awkwardly draped.
There are still one or two of them that I am tempted to try, just because the photos are so lush and lovely.

[OneDayI'll · Rating 2 out of 5]

No charts

My ADHD is pretty bad. Written patterns are like noise to me. Utter chaos. I need a diagram or chart to work through. Sadly, this book doesn't have any. And the patterns are so tightly written that the stitches sort of blur into the next. Several yarns are very dark and don't show the designs well in the lighting used, either.

[Vicki Jutson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Modern stylish designs that are easy to crochet based on the construction of squares and rectangles.
Each pattern is rated for skill level, measurements, materials, gauge and includes special notes. Most of the yarns are available in Australia or online via the manufacturer’s website. I’m looking forward to making a few of these gorgeous designs very soon.

[Ligaya · Rating 2 out of 5]

I've read a couple crochet books by Salena Baca and perhaps I should stop because I rated them all two-stars or fewer... In this book, I found at least one piece I like though! (The Flow Poncho used a beautiful drapey stitch.) There are several things I didn't like here, the first being Lion Brand Yarn. Yuck. Honestly, your designs will make a huge leap in refinement if you use a yarn of better quality. Next, there are no schematics which would definitely help beginners and experts alike. Third, the photography and styling are, all I can say is, gross. Little wardrobe/expression change between models... Lastly, I know the gimmick is "two simple shapes" but there could be much more sophistication in how the squares and rectangles interact to make a shape that isn't baggy and formless.

[JANET · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great job by everyone involved! 👉🤓👈

It was fun just to see, read, and dream through the instructions for each design! There's something for everyone here and even a granny square made stylish! The models did a great job except a view of the back of several designs would've been helpful. My favorite picture was the last one, however, you'll have to check it out yourself! Thanks to Salena Baca and team for another fine and inspiring book of patterns! Highly recommended for those so inclined.

[Evelien Jong · Rating 4 out of 5]

Beautiful book with gorgeous designs. I did wonder whether given the square design, I assume it is quite a loose fit for the sweaters whereas I prefer something that envelops the body more. Nice looking cardigans also. I especially liked the "Heartland Shrug".

Personal note: I did not take photos of this book considering it is a little too advanced for me to start these projects as yet. I cannot even crochet at present!

[Szotsmile · Rating 5 out of 5]

Easy to read. Easy to follow and as soon as I have the time to crochet, I will make one of the projects.

Thank You for writing such a clear and well written book. Mr.Snuggles should not have to worry about me being so caught up in any misc new project, as he carefully watches me read... 😁

[Martha Avans · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great crochet book. Loved all the great ideas that can be done using just two simple shapes.

[Heidi Daniels]

I do a lot of crochet,I like the designs on the photo, the instructions are tricky, they don't give you measurements, Gauge, hook number or yarn. Useless

[Mckinley · Rating 2 out of 5]

I don't crochet, I knit. Some of these are patterns I could knit. Some would only work in crochet.

[Deborah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nice simple but stylish projects with easy to find yarn recommendations.

[Lin · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a book I will most likely revisit in the future, once my skills have caught up to the projects!

[Michelle Hanson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Patterns look well written just most of the items were not to my taste.. I kept the two I liked.. One I will need to construct larger as it is a size too small. Wish they would make more plus sizes!!

[Reading · Rating 3 out of 5]

Basic but useful

[Emelisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love the simple designs

Easy to read. I have bookmarked 3 selections. Hoping to make myself the poncho or cardigan someday. The poncho on the cover of this sold me.