Here are 150 original crochet blocks and motifs plus 51 gorgeous projects to inspire your creativity.
Packed with ideas to get you going, this clever directory begins with a five chapters of motifs and blocks, from the simplest crosses and spirals to geometric shapes, pictures, lacy patterns, and bold, beautiful flowers. Use them to make up your own bags, throws, scarves, and cushions, designed just as you choose, or follow one of Melody’s foolproof projects—included are a butterfly brooch, holly greetings cards, an openwork afghan, cat pillow, button baby blanket, tie belt, and a cherry border cardigan, so there’s something for everyone to make and give. Each motif is displayed as a color photograph next to easy-to-follow instructions, with stitch diagrams for more complex motifs. The instructions are also written out in full so you can choose the way you prefer to work. Melody also advises on the type of yarn to use, the tension and the size of the motif, and gives tips on how to achieve the best result. There are also sketches and photos showing how the motif can be used, either on its own, with several together, or partnered with other motifs. Once you start, you will realize that the possibilities are endless.
There are lots of interesting granny squares featured here, unlike what I've seen elsewhere, but I found the crochet alphabet boring and many of the projects are something that I wouldn't do anyway. Many squares, but not all, are accompanied by a stitch chart. The photos are clear. My favorite section are the lace squares. The granny square jacket on the cover is what inspired me to buy the book but it is only sized for a child of 2-3 years! I was uncertain whether to keep this one in my library, but there is a lot of information in here and I think it will be something I'll refer to, if only to figure out how to design an adult-sized granny square jacket.
(This review is part of a series of reviews of books in my granny square collection. For these reviews, the # of granny squares refers to the number of patterns for squares that are crocheted in the round, not the total number of patterns in the book.)
Summary: Pattern book with 201 crocheted motifs and 50 projects using these motifs. Uses U.S. pattern abbreviations and international stitch symbols.
# of granny squares: 38
What I like: The book features many unique motifs which are whimsical and cute. The motifs are in a range of shapes and using several construction techniques. There are many floral and animal motifs, as well as a full applique alphabet. The book includes international stitch symbols for the majority of patterns. The projects are interesting and varied. There is an illustrated stitch guide in the back of the book, along with some helpful tips. This would make the book appropriate for a beginner. The pictures are very clear and the book is definitely "eye candy." The binding doesn't allow this book to lay flat, but it has built-in book flaps which can be used to hold a page.
What I didn't like or what's missing: There are some patterns that don't include international stitch symbols (presumably due to space constraints). The book doesn't have a lay flat binding.
This is a great book! Not only does it have varied and interesting crochet motifs, but the author has a sense of humor which comes through in her writing. I never learned to read or use the crochet diagrams, but it looks like the instructions are very easy to read and follow. She has a pattern for the cutest little fluffy sheep so I'm going to crochet a "field" of green and then applique the sheep. It will make a darling blanket. Maybe I'll add some flowers (many patterns to chose from) as the edging. This is a great book with fabulous color photos and has given me ideas for many projects. I'm impressed.
Just read this instruct book again! Now that I'm further along in my crocheting, I appreciate what a great resource this book is and will be. So, I've upped my rating to 5 stars! Will be referring to this one often. . .
Requested this for the crochet alphabet which is very easily done. Lots of other neat stuff in here that I probably won't get a chance to do before it's due at the library.