5 comments about Around the Corner Crochet Borders: 150 Colorful, Creative Edging Designs with Charts and Instructions for Turning the Corner Perfectly Every Time.

1. I loved this book from the first opening. It is very beautifully presented and have pictures for every border. The instructions are both written and as a chart. It was so hard to pick the one I wanted to use first. I would definitely recommend this is you love finishing off your crochet projects with beautiful borders.



2. This book is an excellent resource book with beautiful and unique stitches for edgings. The design of the book is very nice as well as good pattern writing.



3. This is my review for this book. I also posted this review on my blog at [...]
   
   Why is this edging book different from all other edging books? Corners! The majority, if not all, edging books out on the market show how to work a long and flat crocheted edging. That's fine if you just want to trim the bottom of a towel, but what if you want to edge an afghan? or a scarf? or the whole towel? That's where this book comes in. It has patterns for 150 different crocheted borders, each one showing you how to turn the corner. The book essentially has two main parts: section 1 talks about the logistics of crocheting borders and section 2 is filled with patterns for 150 different borders
   
   Section 1 - Edgings and More
   
   Many people will buy this book just for the edging patterns, but this first section makes the purchase price worth it all by itself. It has information every crocheter should know. It discusses how to evenly crochet around a piece as well as methods of joining and changing colors. I especially love the fact that this section is full of color photos showing you exactly what Edie is talking about. It's one thing to read about how to create an even, flat border, but it's quite another to see bright, clear photographs illustrating what to do and not do. When I was reading through this section, I was a bit confused by the explanation of a single crochet and double crochet join, but with the aide of the photos I was able to figure it out.
   
   Since most borders can only be worked over a certain multiple of stitches, this section walks you through determining how many stitches you have and which borders will work. If you are math phobic, don't worry. Edie explains what to do step by step and even includes an example that you can look over.
   
   I have to say that I love the method she gives for working edges on a piece of regular (i.e. not crocheted) fabric. If you have ever spent hours, like me, punching holes in the hem of a fabric in order to crochet an edging, then you will absolutely LOVE the method in this book.
   
   Section 2 - The Edgings - 150 crocheted designs, instructions, and charts
   
   Ah...the patterns :-) There are a stunning variety of edgings to choose from, and you can find one to suit any project. Some are dainty while others are bold and showy. Some use simple stitches, some use more advanced stitches, some use beads or buttons, and some use innovative techniques to create a fabulous edge. Oh, and some are fabulously 3 dimensional. Clear sample photos show you sections of the edging, including a corner, of course. The samples are worked in the beautiful array of colors that I've come to expect from Edie's work in her previous book, Beyond the Square Crochet Motifs.
   
   Some of my favorites: #123 is perfect for edging a Breast Cancer Awareness project. #142 has a fantastic variation of the single crochet, #27 looks regal while using mostly basic stitches, and #65 if my daughter saw this one she'd make me crochet her a blanket just so it could have this edge.
   
   Each pattern is written for a border crocheted in the round. Accompanying each written pattern are two stitch diagrams. The first is simply the symbol "translation" of the written directions. The second chart shows modifications that may be necessary if you need to work the pattern back and forth (flat) instead of in the round. This would come in handy if you wanted to make tied headbands or bracelets using the edging patterns. There is a stitch symbol key located in the back of the book to help you decipher the charts. In addition to that, there is also a spread showing some of the basic symbols and explaining some of the logic behind symbol diagrams.
   
   Overall, I'd say this book is a great addition to any crocheter's library, and a must have for anyone who wants to really learn how to make fantastic edgings.



4. The pros: Colorful, creative borders (including corners and stitch counts!) - complete with written instructions and charts. There are a lot of options, from simple to complex, from chunky to lacy, which offers a large amount of good options for all your projects. They instruct you how to add these borders to knit/crochet projects, and even fabric and felt!
   
   The cons: The physical book is oddly shaped, and isn't spiral bound like Beyond the Square. The book won't lay flat, keeps closing on me, and is difficult in that manner.
   
   Sum up - good patterns, bad physical book.



5. Excellent book. Good for beginners and experienced. I am anxious to try a lot of these borders. It gives you many great ideas.

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

1. The flowers are beautifully illustrated with clear instructions even for the crochet ones (which I don't do yet). Can't wait to make some.



2. This is a wonderful collection of garden items to crochet or knit. For the record, there are 40 knit patterns and 60 crochet patterns. (March 2009 edition)
   
   The gallery section (Dictionary of Flowers) shows the samples in actual size, which is helpful. Crocheted and knitted items are intermingled in the gallery section, but there are separate instruction sections for crochet and knit patterns. The instruction sections are further broken down into basic, intermediate and advance levels. All patterns give the suggested yarn weight used in the sample (typically DK or Fine weights), but there are no suggested hook or needle sizes. The crafter will need to experiment a bit with the suggested yarn to achieve the sample size and then experiment from there for specific projects.
   
   The photos are gorgeous and quite inspiring. I love the rainbow of colors. The patterns are mostly flowers, but there are also leaves (about 14) and a few vegetables (4), fruits (5) and bugs (5).... a nice sampling of a garden. (The numbers I provided include both crochet and knit patterns.)
   
   The crochet patterns also feature symbol charts, which is helpful.
   
   The project section at the end of the book is basically a section of project suggestions, not really full blown projects. For me this was the least helpful part of the book, but others may find it helpful.
   
   Overall, I am very pleased with this book and look forward to crocheting flowers for the charity hats I'm making.



3. Exceptional book! Huge collection of flowers and leaves, both crochet and knit, that can be used to embellish ANYTHING, from wearables to afghans, etc.
   The directions are clear, the pictures delightful.
   This is a book I will use and cherish for all of my crafting years!



4. Enough variety and clear instructions make this a book well worth the money and worth owning. I always judge a knit or crochet book by how many items I would want to make and this book comes in at 90%-a high score as many books only have a few items that you really want to make.
   
   You will use it time and time again.



5. Beautiful pictures and easy instructions to follow!!!! Will recommend this book to anyone who wants to learn to crochet and knit flowers!

4 comments about Gifted: Lovely Little Things to Knit and Crochet.

1. Was excited to get this book. I have already knitted two of the Linen summer wraps on page 15 and have requests for 3 more from friends. They are quick to knit and so much fun!! Have tagged several projects in this book as "must do". I am really enjoying this book not only for the eye-candy but the fun in deciding which color to choose for each project. Thanks, Mags



2. Ok, who will like this book and who will NOT?
   
   1. Knitters who like to felt. There are small projects like little hearts to use as pincushions, egg cozies, and other doo-dads. Also felt medallions to embroider and ornament baby wear.
   
   2. Felters who want to do little projects. I mean, little.
   
   3. Anyone with kids who want to try small felting projects
   
   4. People who like fiber-related Christmas or holiday fiddle-faddle
   
   Who will not like it? Anyone who wants bigger stuff or thinks they could figure all this out on their own and not buy a book.
   
   I liked the pincushion idea (the hearts are cute, they could be addictive.) The baby sweater is different and quite modern-retro. The egg cozies are nice--we eat boiled eggs and the little warmers are very pretty and stylish. Other than that however...well, not my kind of thing.



3. I am sure that a lot of effort went into designing the projects that went into this book. Personally I was looking for a book that offered more options for things to knit and crochet that were a bit more practical. For instance: Egg covers - for covering an egg that is served in a little wooden holder? . . . Seriously? I don't have time to knit 'stuff' like that! Would have loved to see ideas that were FUNCTIONAL as well as attractive. I realize that this is personal preferences, but this is one book that I wish I had checked out at the library before I jumped in and bought it! I just don't see myself reaching for this knitting book the next time I want to make a gift for someone! If you are looking for a pattern for gift and want to make a hat, scarf or mittens check out: 60 Quick Knits: 20 Hats*20 Scarves*20 Mittens in Cascade 220. Now that is a great knitting book!



4. As always, keep in mind that "knit" comes before "crochet" in the title. And similar to frozen dinners promising "gravy and roast beef", there are more knit patterns than there are crochet patterns. How many more? There are a total of 20 more knit patterns that crochet patterns for a total amount of 34 patterns - 7 crochet, 27 knit. This is of interest to the crocheter because you have to figure out whether the 7 crochet patterns are worth buying.
   The patterns for crochet are as follows: Granny Bag, Crochet Flower Brooch, Cheerful Earmuffs, Gilded Mesh Scarf, Colorful Crochet Flowers, Felted Yule Bling and Felted Trivet and Coasters. The Granny Bag is as you would expect it to be if you are a crocheter, the twist being it is felted and lined. The Cheerful Earmuffs are very cute if you're an earmuff wearer. The Gilded Mesh scarf is great looking. The crochet flowers were all right, but honestly, the Felted Yule Bling and the Felted Trivet and Coasters just left me cold. The most intriguing pattern, the one of the little felted hearts on the cover, is knitted.
   Is it worth it for a crocheter to buy this book? Well, if you want to make really cool looking earmuffs, I'd say, yes, you should definitely buy this book. The mesh scarf is great and the fringe is a wonderful twist that I would never have considered. The crochet patterns are well written. But I have to admit I was really disappointed that the heart pattern was only in knit.
   The knit patterns look great. The Weekend Socks look terrific, the arm cozies are lovely. Not Being a knitter, I can't say how well they are written, but I'd would presume they would be well written because of the crochet patterns.
   What's the verdict? If you're a crocheter, you may want to check this book out in person to see how many patterns you would be likely to use. It does have some great ideas.The knit projects look fantastic and since there are 24 knit patterns, the knitters get more bang for their buck.

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

1. for those who like to crochet and are looking for something different. It took me a bit to figure out the patterns, but once I did...WOW...what fun these are to make. One thing to keep in mind is that you must use a tightly spun yarn. Buy the book and expand your croceting abilities.



2. I am a crocheting newbie. I find a pattern and always get stuck at one small command and can't finish. I love this book, with the written directions and the chart, it is easy to follow. The motifs are great, very different from what I have seen. I have really enjoyed this book and highly recommend it!



3. This is a great book of patterns and a great jumping off of point for tons of projects! Once you learn the basics of crochet, which is explained in the book, you can easily master these shapes. And once you master these shapes you can make anything your heart desires. Seriously.



4. A totally inspiring book. Makes you want to crochet immediately you open it. Stunning original motifs. Very well laid out. Visually attractive and very practical with the ring binding.



5. I purchased two of these books, one for myself and the other for my sister. We both think that this book is the best book written for motifs. It is so informative and full of great pictures to make motifs. It is worth evey penny to buy this book. We love it!!

5 comments about Crochet So Fine: Exquisite Designs with Fine Yarns.

1. I have only made 2 projects from this book so far but both were quick and easy to do. I am looking forward to making one of the cardigans but wish to make all of the shawls first. Completed "Sprout" yesterday and I'm delighted with it! Working on "Dragonfly" now and I've already worn my "Chain Bucket Hat". Some projects may be more difficult for a beginner crocheter but I've been crocheting for over 40 years and welcome a new outlook on what can be done with crochet. If you don't understand a technique, go on [...] and ask Kristin or other crocheters for clarification. There's plenty of help out there and once you make one of Kristin's designs, you'll go back for more.



2. "Crochet So Fine" is much like a fashion magazine: the garments are interesting, creative, and beautifully photographed. And, as in any magazine or catalog, not every garment will appeal to everyone--and that's okay! Because Kristin Omdahl presents such a wide variety of styles in the 21 projects, there is much to like, no matter what your taste. Fitted cardigans, flowing shawls, some hats...whichever project(s) you choose, you will find Kristin's detailed, helpful instructions to guide you.
   
   The Petals Wrap Cardigan featured on the cover really got my attention. I love the way Kristin incorporates the motifs into this openwork sweater. Detailed row by row instructions are supplemented by charts. As a designer myself, I know that it's challenging just to figure out what software to use to create charts. Many people find the visuals helpful, and Kristin is an expert at preparing them. I can't wait to make this and wear it!
   
   I also like the way Kristin incorporates less-well-known techniques like broomstick lace and hairpin lace into her designs. She gives crocheters good reasons to learn something new.
   
   Large expanses of double crochet stitches strike me as "been there, done that." (I think that look is what knitters often react negatively to, and I can't say I blame them.) While I appreciate the creativity of the hem, cuffs, side gussets, and sleeve attachment technique in the Cascade Pullover Tunic, I'm not drawn to the body of the sweater or the bib additions. In contrast, Pearl's Cardigan uses double crochet stitches in a fresh way that looks fun to make and wear.
   
   Some of the more dramatic projects, like the Orchid Circular Shawl, are not for everyday wear--but what a great choice for a special occasion. I can picture a row of bridesmaids all wearing Orchid shawls. Wow!
   
   I recommend this book to intermediate and experienced crocheters who are looking for interesting, well-explained projects that they will get many compliments on!



3. the styles are attractive, and i do enjoy altering patterns to fit my likes, however, if you don't have the time or patience to do that i wouldn't suggest the book. the instructions leave a lot of key points out and an inexperienced crocheter would quickly get confused. it took me several tries to figure out what the instructions actually meant, or how to get patterns to match to pictures. i'm not saying dont buy the book, just read some of the patterns before you shell out the money or you may end up disappointed.



4. The designs in the book are gorgeous. They are unique designs and I love that a lot of the garments can be worn in various ways. The designs are intimidating, but the author has included a lot of charts and is very active for assistance on Ravelry. I would definitely recommend this book especially for us Floridians looking for lighter weight garments.



5. A beautiful book. Love the information about how she was inspired for each project.
   The book however, is !!!!NOT!!!! for beginners.

No comments about Wrapped in Lace: Knitted Heirloom Designs from Around the World.

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. I enjoy this book. Am anxious to try some of the patterns here. Would recommend this to anyone.



2. This is a very good book for crocheters like me who tend to forget certain things between projects. It covers many aspects of crocheting and has many, many diagrams which is very helpful to me.



3. I love this book, it helps me out with everything whenever I have a crochet question. I've bought this book for all my friends who crochet. It's amazing!!!



4. I have crocheted often over the years but always had a question about finishing off a piece of yarn. This was the first page I looked up - and got a good answer. Thus - I am very pleased with the book and look forward to having it as a reference tool on my bookshelf.



5. I purchased this book as a reference. I would rate myself as a crochet beginner and always have questions. This book has answered each as they popped up. Already paid for itself in gas savings to my usual Q&A location.

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

1. I purchased this book with very little knowledge of how to crochet. After looking through the book and all of the illustrations, I now know how to crohet various patterns and stitches. This book made it simple and easy to understand. I would recommend this book to anyone wanting to learn how to crochet for the first time.



2. If you're the type of person that learns by looking (visual learner) and applying(hands on) this book will be very helpful. Has many pictures and explanations of the different steps. I will recommend it.



3. Sent this as a gift to someone and is a good basic crocheting learning book. Pictures are worth a thousand words.



4. I'm definitely a newbie when it comes to crocheting and this book really makes it easy to learn the different stitches and then put them together. I looked at a few other books in stores like Michaels and JoAnns but this one is the best I've come upon for sure. Some things were a little unclear in the writing, but looking up youtube videos about the different stitches or patterns is a good resource in addition to this book.



5. I was hoping this book would help me learn to crochet, I found it lacking in the visually aid department and found it hard to do quite a few of the stitches, it easier to use the video on the computer.

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

1. I first found this book at the library and checked it out several times before buying it. I have owned it for a few years now and i still use it often! It's a great book! My gauge is different than that in the illustrations, but that has not been an issue for me.



2. Yummy pictures, color and combination suggestions, understandable directions and lots of other information make this book both a great resource and definite crochet eye candy.



3. I love this book, it has given me so many different block patterns and combinations for afghans. I also have used some of the patterns for a basic pattern for scarves. The directions are easy to read and illustrations are great.



4. I can't give you an opinion yet as I have never gotten it. Sorry



5. 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.

No comments about The Crocheted Prayer Shawl Companion: 37 Patterns to Embrace, Inspire, and Celebrate Life.