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Hip to Crochet
by Judith
L. Schwartz Judith’s new book, composed of 23 garment and accessory projects, brings a new look to fashion using crochet techniques. Her instructions are user friendly and geared to the young and young at heart. Young people learning to crochet will enjoy the easy basic scarf and projects that are what they think of as retro and we remember as part of our past. Judith uses new fibers and designs that are soft and drape, having a knitted appearance. The delicate look is obtained by the type of yarns and hooks size used. It is easy to make gauzy little motifs and combine them to make a scarf or other item. I made one of the motifs with a lace weight silk and a size C crochet hook. The stitch loops are large for the thread, making a very soft gauzy motif. The basics of crochet include basic crochet stitches for a refresher and how to crochet for beginners. Various hook types are discussed, stitch gauge, how to follow instructions including illustrations and finishing Seaming and blocking plus how to measure yourself are provided. In addition to basic crochet stitches, the afghan stitch is explained along with projects. Every single teen will love the long scarf and easy hats and want to progress to the good vibrations bag, a tote bag. Once you make one scarf, there are tips to designing more and changing colors within the scarf. The hat can be made of one solid color or stripes and ear flaps can be added. The mittens are very easy with no fingers other than the thumb to make. There are additional hat patterns, some made with mohair mohair and include yummy little flowers and leaf motifs and clothe type hats for summer and winter depending on the fiber used. There is a zigzag scarf with corkscrew fringe, a scarf made up of soft lacy motifs, bed slippers, bags with graphed patterns and beads added, tank tops, a suit, cardigan, skirt, capelet, bohemian coat sweater, nested baskets, organic baskets , pillow cases and a throw. I like the pillow cases because they have a button closure at the back so you can easily remove and launder them. The suite includes a skirt, jacket and blouse, all very comfy looking. The cardigan has an n attractive motif worked down the front and along the collar and the skirt is also worked with motif blocks. The bohemian coat sweater is a retro look that young people will love; it’s all new to them. Hip to Crochet would be a good book for working projects with your children or grandchildren and get them interested in crochet. There are many projects that are easy to make and would make perfect gifts. Review by Lydia F Borin |
