5 comments about 100 Flowers to Knit & Crochet: A Collection of Beautiful Blooms for Embellishing Garments, Accessories, and More.

1. Wow! This book is great. This book was better than anticipated and that is always a plus. Not only are there flowers in this book but there are vegetables also. I can't wait to make the peas, carrots and asparagus to decorate my gardening hat with. What fun! The book is laid out well, also. Items that are similar are placed together so that you can look at and compare them easily. The book is not for beginners as the crochet patterns require at least an intermediate skill to understand them but for a true hobbyist, this book is marvelous. It is one of the few times I've purchased a book that ended up being much better than I thought it would be.



2. The patterns in the book are well written and demonstrated with wonderful pictures. I like that the patterns are organized according to their difficulty levels. I've done several flowers without problems, even the advanced levels although I consider myself in an intermediate level.



3. I thought these patterns were going to be over my head but they're not! Fun, easy, well-written and a million inspirational ideas!



4. I loved this book except for one thing; too many of them were instructions for crochet, which I do not do well. I would have loved to have had all patterns written out for crochet and knitting



5. I have been crocheting and knitting for a long time. This book has beautiful and easy to make flowers. Any level crochet or knitter can make the flowers. It also has butterfiles and other insects that add to the beauty of the garden. Love this book.

5 comments about Crocheting For Dummies.

1. I have been ordering quite a few used books from Amazon and I am so pleased that each time I am totally satisfied. How great that I can always trust that Amazon stands for quality.



2. This is my first experience at crocheting so I needed something very basic. This fit the bill. The pictures are very helpful and it takes you from the beginning to more intricate stitches. After a couple days practicing with small squares of the stitches, I am tackling an afghan, and I am thoroughly enjoying it. This is a great book for beginners. Maybe some experts can pick up a few pointers too.



3. This book is a great source for every level of experience. I'm a beginner and it was recommended to me. I love the easy step by step instructions and the visual pictures are great. I can see at a glace how a stitch should look. The patterns that are included are wonderful for some one starting so you can keep up your enthusiasm. This book is always the first one I reach for when I need a reference. I love it!!!



4. Came new and quickly as promised. I would do business again with this seller. Thanks. :)



5. I thought this was going to be a good choice to learn crocheting, but I was disappointed. The sketches - not photos - are very hard to read and the directions are unclear. Also, the writer keeps trying to be funny - and failing miserably - which is very annoying when all you want to do is learn.
   
   Skip this one if you want to become skilled at this craft. I have had more success with another book I purchased after only eight days of purchasing it.

5 comments about Beyond-the-Square Crochet Motifs: 144 circles, hexagons, triangles, squares, and other unexpected shapes.

1. Beautiful book, but even better, well written, and full of useful information. I liked that the pictures were made of plain, easy to see yarn, but some show off pics of some finished projects would have been nice too. I loved the layout ideas pages, and all the unusual shapes. I would buy this for anyone who already loves to crochet, its a little advanced for beginners.
   
   The large pictures, and spiral binding make this very useful for using while you are working and trying to learn to use the patterns and motifs. A nice "lap size" as well, the typeset is large enough I can easily read it laying on my lap with no eye strain. Nice closeups of starting and finishing points, as well as many tips for changing colors cleanly. Many tips and suggestions for making even increases and decreases, to get flat rather than cupped or ruffled finished items, corner treatments, and much much more. I love this book! I already own over 2 dozen crochet books and still consider the stuff in this one to be worth the price.



2. What an amazing and fresh approach to a crochet patterns instruction book! I love the lay outs, the colors and the simple instructions! This book inspires me! The possibilities are endless with all the different motifs - from scarfs to snowflakes...I want to crochet it all!



3. First and foremost the best part of this book is the color photos of examples! Great for getting you started on a new project, and the instructions are very easy to follow. Suitable for novices. Highly recommend!



4. There are magnificent motifs included in this book! I've started crocheting them up using a thicker yarn or doubling up and they make wonderful pot holders. I plan to make every one of them... eventually :)



5. If you like the cover of this book, you will certainly like its contents!
   
   Lovely fresh colours, and LOTS AND LOTS of beautiful shapes and patterns.
   
   The book starts off with a short course in how to crochet, very well explained with clear photographs in close up.
   
   Each section of the book covers one shape (e.g. circles) and for each shape she uses different combinations of four colours (three shades of green and orange for circles; purple, pink, lilac and green for hexagons, etc.). this gives the book a balanced look, you won't be overwhelmed by all the different colours, and it will also give you an idea how different motifs of the same basic shape will work in different colours (all the individual motifs are really different, she doesn't just change the colours to create a 'new' pattern!)
   
   I really loved the lay out of the book:
   There is one motif per page. Each page has a photograph, a diagram (a pattern description in symbols only), a pattern description in text only - very good, so you can switch between visual pattern and text, and they therefore complement each other nicely - and a paragraph or two against a coloured background with some handy advice.
   
   I crocheted a lot when I was in my teens (and yes, mainly squares and circles), and then I sort of stopped and moved on to other things. Had I owned this book then, I probably never would have stopped (be warned!).
   
   Because it is such a long time since I held a crochet hook, it takes some time for me to work out her patterns (just reading at the moment), but her instructions are very clear and she makes good use of diagrams and photographs. I am confident that I will be able to solve any crocheting problems with just this book, and I own her other book too (the crochet answer book), which I also really like very much.
   
   Yes, of course the book would be even lovelier if it also had photographs of finished projects - as some reviewers suggest - , but with the thoroughness of this author the book would then probably be too heavy to handle. Because the possibilities are literally endless. And personally, I am very glad she chose to limit herself to describing different motifs, as I would not have wanted to miss any of them.
   
   If you really want to find out how to combine her shapes without actually making them first, you can ofcourse use a photocpier, or buy two extra copies of the book (one for each side of the page), cut them up, fill a printing page with your chosen shapes, and start copying then.
   
   Have fun! I certainly will...

5 comments about Stitch 'N Bitch Crochet: The Happy Hooker.

1. I gave this book a five star review because inside the book contains not only different types of patterns, but you have crochet instructions to other crochet techniques to create the design patterns. I give the company a good review for their fast delivery of the book. Also, I know other crocheters who purchase this book ,and they have given a great recommendation. I am glad that I purchase this book.



2. This book came highly recommended, and when I saw the overwhelmingly positive reviews here on Amazon I decided to buy the book. My previous crocheting experience consisted of the one weekend my mother-in-law taught me the chain and single crochet stitch. It had been almost a year since that weekend, and I hadn't picked up a hook since and didn't remember a single thing about crochet, but I hoped that the book would be helpful enough that my sketchy memories would come back.
   
   The chain stitch explanation was fine, but when she moved to crocheting a single crochet stitch into the chain, she left out some very important information. She tells you how to do the stitch, but not how to transition from doing the chain to the stitch--no telling you that the hook stays where it is rather than taking it out of the work, or that you flip your work around, and no explanation that you want one chain stitch more than the number of stitches you want each row to have. (She tells you to make a chain of 21 to start with, but doesn't explain the reasoning behind that number--in retrospect I realized it was because he wanted you to be making rows of 20, but since she didn't say that I started with a row of 20 because I don't like uneven numbers without a reason!)
   
   These may sound like nitpicky details, but if you don't know them there is NO way to continue on with the work. I ended up so stuck that I had to go online to find a video tutorial and figure out what on earth I was missing. Once I saw that you were supposed to keep your hook in the yarn and just flip things around to continue, then the lightbulb went off and I was able to continue. And as I continued reading in the book, I discovered that she explains the "# of stitches per row + 1" concept *at the end*--which is fine if you did 21 stitches to start with, but since she doesn't make it a point at the beginning to tell you how important it is to have that extra stitch, I suspect many people would just do their own thing and then end up having to make rows one stitch smaller than they were anticipating. It's these errors that made me give the book a 3-star rating, which may still be too high, given the whole point of the book is to be able to teach you this skill--and without the missing information, you can't learn it properly at all.
   
   Some of the pictures are a little confusing, though the majority of them (so far anyway; I haven't ventured beyond the single crochet stitch yet) are clear enough that I was able to puzzle out what I was looking at. However, based on ym experience so far, I do not anticipate being able to figure out all the stitches based on her explanation and illustrations alone; I suspect I will need a video tutorial or personal lesson as I get into the more complicated stitches. And maybe that's just me; maybe I'm just not as good at decoding the illustrations. *shrug* But it's worth knowing if you're considering buying the book.
   
   I would recommend checking this out from the library first to see if the illustrations and explanations make sense to you. If they do, then by all means buy the book; it's a great resource, especially in regards to choosing yarn and hooks for various types of projects and decoding the information on yarn skein wrappers. And, of course, all the fun patterns!



3. Stitch 'n Bitch Crochet: The Happy Hooker is an upbeat, in-your-face guide to learning how to crochet, including patterns for forty fun, useful, and fashionable items. Chapters cover different types of stitches, sewing or crocheting seams, how to read a crochet pattern, and much more. The Happy Hooker is a great starter guide for introducing anyone to crochet, and even crochet experts are sure to enjoy making the patterns, which range from scarves and shawls to hats, bags, belts, blankets, and other delightful items that make wonderfully distinctive gifts. Full-color photography on almost every page illustrates this fun, sassy, and user-friendly how-to book.



4. I had learned to crochet before reading Debbie's book, but I was still struggling with some of the basic principles. What drew me into her book was the catchy title and the overall laid back and fun look of the cover. I had no idea that I was about to fall in love! Her writing was insightful, easy to understand, and witty. I was definitely hooked, and I have since used some of Debbie's same principles to teach others. I love how she described the differences between crochet hooks and gives suggestions throughout the book of some of her favorite things. It was really enjoyable, and even over a year later, I find that I always have "Happy Hooker" close at hand.



5. its organized a 'lil diff. than most of the other crochet books, but it includes it all (and more). and it is comprehensible! I would've save soooo much money if I had bought this as my first crochet book. instead, i went through bits and pieces of almost ten other instruction/pattern books. i figured that this was just how it works and i'd have to live with it, but then I bought this book for myself and, miraculously, it had everything in one place!

5 comments about The Crochet Answer Book: Solutions to Every Problem You'll Ever Face; Answers to Every Question You'll Ever Ask (Answer Book (Storey)).

1. Good book. Clearly written. Answers most questions. It would be better if it was spiral-bound to make it easier to hold open to the page of interest.



2. I use it for a reference book & other times just flip through it to learn something new & the best part is, it's small enough to carry in my project bag. My only regret is that I didn't buy it sooner!



3. So many good reviews for this book, but its true, it has alot of good information in it, and none of the filler material or patterns that pad most how to books. Just all the info your hunting, a great index to access it, I checked this out at my library and decided I wanted a copy for my crochet library. I have been crocheting more than 30 years, and I still found this book to be one I wanted for my permanent collection. My mom loved it too...



4. I often check this book to clarify how to do stitches when I'm working on a project. The details are clear and the pictures are easy to follow. The book also includes lots of general information, for example, yarn types and weights, that is very helpful.



5. Wow ! Absolutely everything one wanted to learn is definitely in this book. It is in excellent condition; very pleased with the order.
   
   Now, I can start again.......

No comments about Comfort Knitting and Crochet: Afghans: More Than 50 Beautiful, Affordable Designs Featuring Berroco's Comfort Yarn.

5 comments about Teach Yourself Visually Crocheting (Teach Yourself Visually).

1. The pictures & the way this book is written is very helpful. I use it for reference when I need to see a picture of how stitches are done. I wasn't sure how a book could tell me that but this one does. I also have a crochet DVD but find that I can pick this book up & find out what I need to know when I need to be reminded of how to do a particular stitch. Just like "The Crochet Answer Book", I wish I had bought this book sooner than I did.



2. I paired this book with the stitch N bitch book the HAPPY HOOKER and taught myself to crochet in a matter of days. The two together are fantastic! Both are awesome for someone who needs the visual teaching!



3. I purchased this book and haven't yet seen the print version, but I can tell you that the supposed "upgrade" to a digital version is unreadable. The page images are fuzzy so that the text is illegible in some instances. For a book where it's really important to see the details, this is unacceptable. I've asked Amazon for a refund and I won't be ordering any more "upgrades."
   
   So this review isn't about the substance of the book (I'll know more about that when I get the paper copy). It's about the production of the digital version.



4. Another great beginner's book on crocheting. The pictures are really great and show every stitch in detail. I can now say that I can crochet and I love it.



5. I took a crocheting class and wanted to learn more so I purchased this book. It's easy to follow, beautiful illustrations and has lots of stitches. Would highly recommend it especially for anyone learning to crochet.

5 comments about Amigurumi World: Seriously Cute Crochet.

1. What adorable critters you can crochet with the help of this enchanting book. I'm more a knitter than crocheter, but I find these patterns so easy to follow, and so fun to complete that I'm really enjoying crochet more than I ever have. These cute creatures are great gifts for all ages: teenagers like them just as much as babies do.



2. I ordered the book, and it was supposed to arrive on the 31st of the month. I called on this day, and the order had reached my city, but had failed to be delivered. After 2 more days of not getting the book, I contacted them again, and it was finally shipped and arrived at my home.



3. Ana Paula Rimoli is the best ami author out there. You will be spoiled as she tells you exactly when to stop to work on the faces and other details that will make your crocheting a fun experience.



4. I bought this book for my 10 year old, a beginner in crochet. She made the bunny all by herself in less than 3 days! The instructions are clear and easy to follow. There are lots of cool designs to choose from. Now, she's hooked and eyeing book 2.



5. This book is what started my amigurumi obsession. These patterns are SO cute and the instructions are terrific. Prior to picking this up, I hadn't crocheted in oh, a million years. Both of my daughters and their friends are constantly going thru the book and 'putting their orders in'. Yeah, I'll be making these things till I'm 110. That's okay. Puts a smile on everyone's face!!

5 comments about 200 Crochet Blocks for Blankets, Throws, and Afghans: Crochet Squares to Mix and Match.

1. Beautiful book.But every block I have tried has a mistake and I have not been able to complete one.Very disappointing.I would not purchase it.



2. My daughter loves to crochet and has found this book to be very helpful. She has made several afghans and also has used the patterns to make some baby crochet throws for friends. She felt the directions were easy to understand. Would recommend for any person who loves to crochet.



3. This was my crash course to granny squares. There are lots of square options plus some sample finished patterns. Directions are more or less self explanatory except for occasions like when you are making the shell trimming. I went through a few unravellings with that one. All in all it wasn't a bad purchase. Made my first afghan!



4. I just love this book, it is really well done and the patterns are amazing... that said, I wish the authors/publisher had included graphic patterns to accompany the written patters. I am new to crochet and find many of the patterns a little confusing.
   
   All in all, it is a beautiful book and a worth while purchase.



5. I have crocheted for 37 years, mostly sweaters, ponchos & shawls for myself and a lot of baby gifts. I don't use patterns and I was never one for squares but a friend at church had this book and, after glancing through it I was intrigued. I ordered it and have been having a WONDERFUL time. It has spured to create some of my most favorite projects. The mix and match of motifs, colors, etc. was very "freeing." I have used the motifs designs in bags, pillows, shawls, hats and more. I have noticed a few errors but nothing that I was unable to overcome. If you love to crochet, don't hesitate. Buy this book!

5 comments about Lily Chin's Crochet Tips & Tricks: Shortcuts and Techniques Every Crocheter Should Know.

1. I love this book, the only thing I have found that I would like better, is the page numbers are very hard to find. And hard to see when you find them.



2. Love this book and would recommend it to anyone that takes their work seriously. I have taken this class with Lily at CGOA conferences and it is worth it. You never remember all the things you pick up in class so this becomes a nice handy reference. She covers the basic areas you may have problems with and some of the more advanced ones. Lily is an expert crocheter and knitter. I was glad to see she is finally publishing what she knows.



3. First of all, let me say that I also purchased Lily's book 'Knitting Tips & Tricks' and found that many of the pages have exactly the same wording as the Crochet Tips and Tricks with an occasional word changed to suit 'knitting' jargon rather than crocheting. I mean, how disappointing is that......surely Lily could have used totally different wording in her crochet tips book than in her knitting one (think 'The Knitting Answer Book' by Margaret Radcliffe and 'The Crochet Answer Book' by Edie Eckman, which are totally different from each other in their presentation and wording, for example).
   
   Lily is so versatile and talented, I think she could have made each book a whole separate read so as far as I'm concerned, if I had it to do over, I would only buy the crochet book and pass on the knitting one.



4. Any crocheter could find at least one "Aha!" item worth the price of the book; most will find dozens. Each tip or section addresses an annoyance or obstacle with a truly better way to do the same thing. Both words and diagrams are clear. (Explaining hung gauge, she says that measuring gauge on a flat surface is fine for afghans, but for clothing "you will now know how big this garment will be if you were to wear it while lying down in bed!" -- wonderful writing.) Some things I knew, some I didn't know I knew, and most are improvements in crochet technique and results that I never even dreamed of. Yes, there are alternatives to awkward turning chains, and those gaps and lumps at increases, decreases, joins, and color changes are not built into crochet. This marvelous little book smoothes out *everything.* I've been crocheting for decades, and learned a lot. The opening reference section will be permanently useful, a few of the techniques are conceptual challenges (to me, at least), and the sections on adjusting patterns and doing the gruntwork of finishing a piece are both inspiring and reassuring. [A few oddities: she has left out alternatives to the slipknot start, and the flat-vs-round and pointy-vs-notpointy hook descriptions were confusing, to me -- but simply knowing that Bates vs Boye is one vs. t'other helps. On p. 165, cross-reference to intarsia reads p. 00, should be p. 127 -- but the index tells you that.] DEFINITELY in my top 10 crochet books.



5. Lily Chin's Crochet Tips & Tricks provides a nearly toteable sized book gathering over seventy of her best techniques - many gathered from her regularly sold-out classes. From easy solutions to crocheter's peeves to working with coned yarns, cheating at the beginning of a row, and more, this is packed with insights any knitter or knitting library needs.