Debbie Stoller
In a nutshell: The must-have beginner’s guide to crochet that combines clear instructions with an extensive range of covetable patterns
I first learnt to crochet as a child, but never progressed beyond the most basic stitches, and certainly never finished a complete project. At that time I’m not sure there was anything particularly desirable to make anyway. Crochet seemed to be restricted to shape- limiting granny squares in lurid colour combinations. Then a few years ago I chanced to pick up a copy of Stoller’s book from the local library. It was a revelation.
The first part describes the basics including how to hold your hook and making the four main stitches. It also shows you how to do other really useful stuff like joining in new wool, weaving in the ends, sewing together and blocking your finished item. These are all explained in Stoller’s intelligent, light-hearted prose and are both ridiculously easy to follow and a joy to read. I was soon hooking away like a pro.
Once the basic techniques have been mastered, there are 40 original patterns to consider. Despite being first published in 2006, most of the designs are timeless and remain as covetable as ever. The pictures in the book are particularly cool, with some great styling ideas for wearing your crochet masterpiece. I’ve made several items, but I think the standout piece is the “Short ‘n Sweet”, a perfect summer cover up. There are one or two errors in the patterns, and it is worth checking the errata on-line before you start, to avoid any confusion later.
.JPG)
Although the author has become a knitting superstar for her “Stitch and Bitch” book, I think this crochet book is the real gem. It even has a pattern that updates the old-fashioned granny square.
