Compendium of Crochet Techniques: 300 Tips, Techniques and Trade Secrets

Dec 08

(Reviewed with Compendium of Knitting Techniques)

Both these books offer a great deal of information (300 tips, techniques and trade secrets) in their respective subjects. They start with the basics (tools, yarns, tension) that you would expect in books of this kind, but also include interesting additions such as design and choosing the best look for your body shape. Both cover basic techniques which then lead onto ones that are more complicated and varied, so you could use this book from beginner to more advanced levels. Neither book has patterns or projects, and would be suitable for anyone wanting a comprehensive one-stop shop for achieving a great number of varied techniques and stitches. Both touch on dyeing and felting with interesting results, particularly the crocheted motifs, but you wouldn't want to buy the books for this reason alone. Useful books to have if you ever need to source a particular stitch or technique that you aren't familiar with.

Dec 08

This 160-page paperback is a re-issue of the hardback that was reviewed in December 2007. On that occasion I wrote that at 'the Leeds/Bradford branch meeting and some very experienced crocheters gave it a thumbs-up. Subtitled '300 tips, techniques and trade secrets, it carries the Search Press hallmark of copious illustrations employing both photographs and diagrams. Not everyone likes to learn techniques from a book, but for those who are happy with this method there is plenty here to go at. As well as crochet skills there are notes on dyeing, tools, patterns and equipment. It does not address more unusual techniques such as double filet or Tunisian, but provides a thorough exposition of core stitches and skills.' What I did not notice then is, that despite being written in UK terminology, not a single pattern is charted although there are a copy of pages setting out the most commonly used symbols. An absence of charts would be usual in a publication for the US market but is disappointing in a book that is otherwise so well-illustrated. Nevertheless, it is a valuable resource.

Jan 09

Now in paperback and bursting with technical know-how and trouble-shooting tips. We quickly learn how to give a professional finish to our crochet garments and accessories with this indispensable compendium. Step-by-step photographs, diagrams and clear instructions guide us through each stage of our work, or we can dip in for help with a particular problem. We discover how to substitute yarns and accurately estimate the amount required; adapt patterns to create tailor-made garments. All stitches are demonstrated, from basic chain stitch to filet and Tunisian crochet and there's advice on mixing and matching stitch patterns and dealing with gauge variations. You'll also find plenty of inspiration for adding an extra-special touch to your work using hand-dyed yarns, beaded embellishments and surface crochet.

Jan Eaton is a needlecraft and textile designer. She has published many needlecraft books, including Country Crochet and Knitted Lace, and Crochet Basics.