Product Description

An updated classic covering the latest techniques and trends in crocheting

Are you hooked on the art of crochet? Looking for a fun new hobby that you can take with you virtually anywhere? Crocheting For Dummies, 2nd Edition gives you easy-to-understand instructions on how to choose the right tools, create basic stitches, and finish off your work to make beautiful pieces of art. From learning to create consistency with gauge swatch to decoding crochet patterns, symbols, and diagrams, this easy-to-follow guide is all you need to start creating beautiful designs in no time!

This revised edition contains completely new content, including fresh new patterns, stitches, and techniques reflecting crocheting styles from around the world. Plus, it's packed with new and refreshed photos and line art throughout, along with step-by-step instructions that will easily guide you from your first stitch to your first sweater.

• A new section covering common crocheting mistakes and how to correct them
• Crocheting with eco-awareness: using organic yarns, as well as free trade and sustainably sourced fibers
• The best resources for purchasing supplies, as well as choosing and buying patterns

Whether you're a first-time crocheter or looking to expand your skills, Crocheting For Dummies, 2nd Edition gives you the skills, techniques, and confidence to crochet like a pro. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (39)

This book is great!
As a self taught beginner at crocheting, this book was a life saver. I had tried three other instructional books before this one and felt like I was trying to translate a foreign language. I am happy to report I have completed my first project, a beautiful baby blanket and am now on tho bigger and better things.

crocheting more simple
I have been crocheting a long time. I am not a beginner but not advanced by any means. This book helps the beginner as well as more advanced. It shows how to crochet from the very beginning with pictures that explain well. It also shows how to do many different types of stitch from very beginning to advanced. It also has several projects you can try. Beginning to advanced.

Great for "Dummies" Book
This was a book that my wife had wanted and was unable to find locally... It came to our home via USPS it was new and at a reasonable price... Whenever possible I purchase items from Amazon...

Beginning Crochet

I enjoy the entire Dummy series. The authors speak in clear illustrations for the novice.

Left handed beginners do not fear this book
As a beginning left hander in crochet, it is not easy to find a book that will give you that little bit of support to get you started.As much as any two dimensional pictures can teach crochet, this book is wonderful.Of course, I'm sure it is good for right handers, too!It's worth as a work to refer to for years to come is immeasurable.Buy it!Use it!Crochet! ... Read more

Product Description
This highly VISUAL guide makes it easier than ever to get hooked on crocheting

The approximately 30 million crocheters in the U.S. make crocheting one of today’s hottest hobbies. This VISUAL guide makes it easy to pick up a hook and a ball of yarn and get stitching, with clear, step-by-step presentations of techniques accompanied by detailed color photos that show readers exactly what to do. The book’s more than 20 patterns–everything from blankets to mittens to a man’s necktie–appeal to hip, modern crocheters. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (55)

Good for beginners but not flawless
What I liked about this book was the huge amount of pictures. I'd seen other books that included a drawing or two and a paragraph of instruction that I couldn't make heads nor tails out of. This book manages to show almost step-per-step each portion of the crocheting process.

However, it's not perfect. First of all, some of the angles of the pictures were not very helpful. Most, if not all, of the shots come from one angle, which is a good since that's mainly your POV when crocheting, but when you're discussing yarning over through various loops and such and pulling them through other loops, it would be nice to have a closeup shot or (better yet) a picture from other angles so that we can get a better idea of what the author is demonstrating.

Also, I'm an absolute newbie to crochet, but it seems like a couple of steps were incorrect or badly written. I can't remember specifics on the poorly written sections, but I DO remember one thing from a scarf pattern. It was a tc, sc, dc, sc, hdc pattern that repeated, but the hdc ended with a single turning chain and instructions to repeat, but the tc required multiple chains to form. I tried it as is and obviously it failed, tried it with the traditional tc chain plus one, and it was too long. Finally, I just disregarded the instruction to chain one and did a chain for the tc and it worked. I know, I know...some are probably like "you could have inferred" but the fact is I couldn't. I'm brand new. This is an instructional booklet. And for all I know, she might have meant for another sc between the hdc and tc but again, it wasn't instructed as such. And so one star had to go.

Still, compared to other books, this one was the clear winner. I still had to supplement from online sources and videos, but it's a good start to read this book for the basics. I wished the patterns were more numerous and diverse, but that's just personal opinion and didn't affect my star rating. Besides, there are TONS of free patterns online. I would recommend this book to those who want tolearn crocheting and hope the new edition has revisions to correct some of the confusing and incorrect steps.

Teach yourself how to Crochet
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.

Crocheting visual learner.
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.

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

Good for beginners
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. ... Read more

Product Description

Customer Reviews (13)

Take Your Garment from Drab to Fabulous
A group of ladies that I meet with every Monday knit baby sweaters to donate to various charities.The top down baby sweater that I was working on had a rib bottom but it was drab!After purchasing "Crocheting on the Edge by Nicky Epstein," I turned this drab sweater into a fabulous baby sweater by turning a plain rib into a crocheted single layer scallop trim (p.154). The pictures and instructions are very clear so whether you are a beginner or advanced crocheter, you'll love the unlimited designs that will inspire the completion of your garment. Whether you are a knitter or a crocheter, this book belongs on your book shelf.

yay for crochet!
i love this book. it has the graphs and written instructions. both are awesome. i like the nifty little things in the book, like the buttefly and flowers. this book will inspire any crocheter to make beautiful items.

Crocheting on the Edge
This is a great book. It has nice pictures, directions and also symbol diagrams. Its everything I needed it to be.

Fantastic Book- I had ugly edges before!
I don't know how I crocheted for years without this book...well, I do...I had ugly edges to things like throws, blankets, and shawls! I just finished a shawl where the top edge now has a very beautiful scallop edge, that was absolutely a piece of cake to make and looks so very elegant! Since this is on the edge that ends up across the front, it makes a huge difference in the first impression of the shawl.

What is impressive about this book, besides the gorgeous layout and photos, the wonderful instructions, and the great binding, is the incredible array of borders. How Epstein dreamed up or found some of these totally amazes me. The level of complexity is great for any crocheter- the beginner can find easy but beautiful edges like my scallop, that was also quick to do. The intermediate and advanced crocheter will find edges that will delight, inspire, and amaze them and dress up their crochet to be works of art!

Thank you to Epstein, you have helped bring crochet up several notches in elegance and artistry!

Has anyone else found a boo-boo?
This is a great book.Right now I am finishing up an afghan for a friend's baby and I am attaching the galley rib to it.However, I think the photograph in the book might be of the wrong side.Has anyone else had an issue with this? ... Read more

Product Description
A best-selling guide that gets readers hooked!

Now with gorgeous color photos!

Updated and completely revised, this guide has been a bestseller ever since its first publication.Plus, it’s the only book to include knitting and crocheting, with both comprehensive instructions and exciting patterns. Readers will get:

• A 32-page, full-color section featuring finished projects
• Goof-proof instructions to get them knitting and crocheting in no time
• Expert advice on how to correct common knitting gaffes
• Terrific tips that will help them decipher knitting and crocheting patterns
• Easy ways to check their gauge—and what to do when it doesn’t match the pattern ... Read more

Customer Reviews (54)

For all future Knitwits
I purchased this book for my step daughter along with supplies. She loves it. The diagrams can help her if I am not there to show her the stitch and explain. I would recommend it to anyone that is starting to knit or crochet.

The comics are very cute too. Of course I elaborated on them for my Hannah:)

Excellent very handy book
I have been knitting and crotcheting for a lot of years now, I bought the book because I waan't working and I wanted to teach myself the correct way to do things. I have only had the book for a few weeks now but I've already learned how to do the contential knitting, it's been a very handy book,now I keep it by my chair where I do my knitting at all times.

Excellent knitting reference book, and very handy for knitting newbies.
This book would not be wasted on a knitting newbie. It has, for me, served as a very excellent reference when it comes to interpreting various pattern and technique instructions from other knitting books and publications. So, recommended!

Excelent Product
I AM A FIRST TIME PURCHASER AT AMAZON, I BOUGHT THIS ITEM USED HOWEVER I DID NOT KNOW WHAT TO EXPECT BUT AFTER MY ORDER ARRIVED I WAS AMAZED TO FIND IT WAS IN MINT CONDITION AND THE ARIVAL DATE WAS SOONER THAT I HAD INITIALY EXPECTED THANKS TO AMAZON FOR SUCH WONDERFUL SERVICE

Knitting book
Easy enough for beginners and also for experienced knitters. Would recommend it to anyone who's interested in knitting or crocheting. ... Read more

Product Description
A treasury of patterns for both the novice and experienced needleworker contains more than five hundred crochet stitches, illustrated instructions, tips on following a pattern, and more.25,000 first printing. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (12)

The Harmony Guide To CROCHETING Techniques and Stitches
I bought this book because everyone who had loves it. I have it now and I can see why. I have several nice crocheting books but this is one of the nicer ones. It is almost full of patterns which I love. It has a small beginning section for basic stitches and them some others so it is great for beginners and experienced. There really is something here for everyone.

I feel quite sure if you purchase this book you will be happy with it as a wonderful reference and pattern idea book. I get so bored with the same old stitch patterns and this helps break up the monotony. I only buy crochet books with symbol patterns included because they are the ones easiest for me to follow and yep, this one has the symbols and pictures and written out instructions on every pattern.

This has more actual patterns that any other book I have seen and I have several.

If your on the fence, dont be...look at the glowing reviews. It is hard to please everyone but this book seems to have so far. Good luck and happy crocheting!

I refer to this book for almost every crochet project I undertake.
When I took my first crochet lesson 10 or 12 years ago, my teacher told me that I should buy a good instruction book as a reference.When I arrived at the second lesson with this book, my instructor was so impressed with it, she asked where she could get a copy!Since then, I've collected many pattern books, but I've never come across a better resource.

No matter what project I'm working on, I usually refer to this book for clarification on the stiches or tips on finishing.The Harmony Guide is wonderful and after reading all of the complaints about how hard it is to find, I'm really concerned about what I'll do when it wears out.

Republish this book!
Like others, I call to the publisher and to the author of this book to bring it back to the public. I have a 1992 copyrighted version of this book and it has become a "bible" of sorts for many projects. Put this back on the market again!

I have made many a projects from the pattern stitches and with the diagrams and symbols used in this book, I can easily look and decide if it will work for the project at hand.

In short, this book needs to be republished and those that can get their hands on it or already have it, don't let it go.It's one of the most comprehensive pattern stitch books that I have ever seen.

Best Crochet Book Ever
After reading a library copy of this book, I knew this was a MUST HAVE book ! The publisher needs to definitely do a reprint of this book, as I know that there are many others that would love to have a copy of it for themselves ! It is a valuable asset for any crocheter- beginner or advanced ! It show us crocheters many different types of stitches that most of us would never think of trying otherwise and in an easy to understand format.

MOUNTFORD! Please find another publisher! I need a copy!
Craftspeople, we need to do something. Everyone who sees Mountford's book wants a copy. Let's write letters to the publisher--or find the publisher's web page and email them--or something! Nowhere else have I seen a book soclear about the steps to be followed in working a stitch. Never before haveI seen directions for so many different stitches in one book. The photosand drawings are the most clear and helpful I have seen in 25 years ofcrocheting. Beginners, intermediates, and masters of crochet are all wellserved by this book, but none of us seems able to get a copy of it!

Mountford also has a guide to knitting, of which I have always beenafraid because of the difficulties I have had each time I've tried to knit,but I can't seem to find a copy of that book, either. I just know I couldlearn to knit if I had that book.

If anybody out there in this wide,wide, electronically connected world knows why the publisher isn't comingout with other editions of these wondrous books, would you please let meknow so that I can lay my knitting ambitions to rest? Many thanks.

Goodluck to us all. ... Read more

Product Description
This richly illustrated book discusses non-Euclidean geometry and the hyperbolic plane in an accessible way. The author provides instructions for how to crochet models of the hyperbolic plane, pseudosphere, and catenoid/helicoids. With this knowledge, the reader has a hands-on tool for learning the properties of the hyperbolic plane and negative curvature. The author also explores geometry and its historical connections with art, architecture, navigation, and motion, as well as the history of crochet, which provides a context for the significance of a physical model of a mathematical concept that has plagued mathematicians for centuries. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (8)

Crocheting Adventures with Hyperbolic Planes
Exciting, creative and scientific - what more could one want? Superlatives abound. I'm hooked and this is not a nerdy book, it's fascinating and exquisite. All stars.

Information overload
I have to say that I didn't like this book. It is more like a book for intellectuals i.e. not for hobby-ists who just want to look at "pattern-instructions" and crochet away. There are way too much text and little to no clear instructions how one can crochet hyperbolic planes - in laymen's text! I wouldn't recommend it to anyone looking for a "pattern-book".

uneven explanations
I like crochet and mathematics. The book looked promising, but (of course, there is always a 'but'):
The math was sometimes explained as if the readers were 8 year old kids who never heard of Pythagoras, and suddenly it goes off with not much explanation about more complicated issues. #That's why I call it 'uneven'#
There wasn't enough crochet, or al least it's too short on crocheting ideas.

Still, it was an interesting addition to some not too often discussed areas.

Not a math genius
Of course there's no patterns.

You do not have to be a math genius to use and appreciate this book (I certainly am not).However, you do need to realize this is a book as much about math as crochet, so an understanding of geometry and experience with shaping crochet without a pattern are a requirement -not advanced skills, but a bit beyond basic math and technical crochet skills.

The reason there are no patterns is because patterns do the math for you, and this book's main point IS the math so patterns defeat the purpose.

An existence proof that mathematics is indeed everywhere
My mother has been crocheting since I was an infant and at one point, I was able to crochet simple things like potholders. It is a simple process as long as you are going straight across to make a rectangle, the hard part is when you have to turn corners and make rounded structures. I never mastered that aspect of crocheting, it requires a degree of three-dimensional foresight that was beyond my mechanical talents.
With this as my background, I was even more impressed by the talents of the author as she uses crocheted fabrics to represent the negative curvature of hyperbolic surfaces. The book opens with a search for hyperbolic surfaces down through history as well as in nature. Although the mathematics of the non-Euclidean hyperbolic surface is of relatively recent origin, such surfaces are found in nature. The photos on page 18 demonstrate their appearance in coral, holly leaves, flower blossoms and nudibranchs.
I must confess that I have seen crocheted items similar to the hyperbolic, catenoid and helicoid surfaces demonstrated in this book at craft shows and flea markets but never made the connection that they were in fact such surfaces. It was a real eye-opener to see them illustrated and Taimina explains the algorithmic ratios behind their creation.
Along with many others, I have been a proponent of the statement, "Mathematics is everywhere." While I firmly believe it, until I read this book I had no idea how all encompassing that statement really is. This is a fun book to read and even people that have never crocheted can appreciate the tactics and results. Some of them are truly works of art.
... Read more

Product Description

Customer Reviews (4)

I loved it so much I bought it 3 times!
I hadn't crocheted since I was a kid (20 yrs ago) when I bought this book and a couple others.I was pregnant and wanted to pick up the hook again and do some things for the baby.THIS WAS ALL I NEEDED!It explained everything, from how to tie the first knot, to how to finish off the hanging threads.

This is a great book that lays the ground-work for the theories behind any pattern. She teaches the basic stitches, how to read a pattern, how to adjust for size, how to pick yarn and hooks.Once she's gone over the basics, she teaches you how to 'mess around' and improvise, which is just how many of the 'fancy' stitches came to be.I found the black and white illustrations to be more helpful that photos used in other books.This is not a glossy papered fashion spread of crochet, but a down to earth simple explanation of the basics that lay the groundwork for all crochet.

Encouraging improvisation and creativity runs throughout the book.After working the baby sweater pattern from the book, I was able to change it up and make it my own in subsequent sweaters, even use it as a basis for other garments for older children.

I now have many books in my crochet library, but this is the one I come back to again and again. As I said, I loved this book so much that I bought it 3 times: the binding on the first one gave out, because I just used it so much (it was not the fault of the binding), so I bought another one.When this updated edition came out I had to have it again, if only to support the woman who gave me so much joy in my rediscovering crochet.

This is the perfect book for those, like me, wanting tobrush up on the basics, or for people just starting out.I HIGHLY recommend it.

Crocheting in Plain English
Book was packaged beautifully and shipped quickly.
I would definitely order from this vendor again.

good and bad
This book is helpful, but needs improvement. If u r teaching yourself, u will probably need a 2nd book to get started, as I did--- It shows u well how to make the 1st loop& 1st chain, but next, with single crochet, the very 1st diagram, showing u where to put the hook, is awful, leaving u stuck. Once u learn single crochet elsewhere however, this book can help in other regards. Other diagrams nicely clarified details that other books do not. This 'good' & 'bad' occurred throughout the book, for example:

The BAD: The diagrams are all black & white, small, hand drawn, & I've seen much clearer diagrams in other books. Sometimes the author uses a term before explaining it. I read some chapters that really did not tell me anything. For ex, the chapter on yarn tells u to use good yarn, but does not tell u HOW to specifically know which yarns are good. While a matter of preference, it is wordy at times. There were a few spots where no diagram at all was provided coupled with explanations that were downright bad & NOT in plain english (such as in the FIRST few 'fancy' stitches after the basics). The problem was with the book, because I worked all of the way through the book up to that point & read & practiced everything, (& also got A's in physics, biochemistry, etc)... there is no reason why I should have been stuck, except that the book 'plain' & simply has bad spots. It had an annoying order at times: When u are just getting started, trying to learn basic stitches, a lot of side info is thrown in (for ex, how to make buttonholes), which could have better been dealt with later.
The GOOD: 1 aspect of the book great for beginners is how it leads u slowly along into developing ability to read crochet shorthand & diagrams, which other books neglect. It has a nice section on more fancy patterns & motifs.It provides helpful tips that could be beneficial as u progress in crochet. If u take time to carefully work thru the book & practice, it can help u develop a very clear sense of how to begin & end rows & keep them neat, (which also helps in counting stitches for patterns).
In sum: Overall, if u need a book to explain things, this book is fairly good, as many other books do not provide such explanation, even though this book does do so in a wordy manner at times, provides some useless info & has some bad spots. Lastly, I dispute its claim that it's the only book u will ever need... there are many good pattern/ motif books, etc, to expand your skills beyond this book.

If I could only own one crochet book . . .
I have owned the earlier version of this book for several years, and recently bought the new one (I don't find a lot of difference in the two).I have to say, if I could only own ONE crochet book, this would be it.It is wonderful, and is indeed in "plain English". ... Read more

Product Description
A heavily illustrated introduction to the skills you need to become a crocheter, Basic Crocheting begins with the yarn, hooks, and other tools you need to get started, and then moves on to cover the skills you need to make a wide variety of home accessories and wearables. Detailed instructions for every step of each project are supplemented with helpful photographs and illustrations. Includes fundamental skills and stitches, such as the chain stitch, slip stitch, and single, half double, and double crochet as well as techniques such as creating an integral fringe, crocheting in the round, and filet crocheting. Learn to create a shadowbox pillow, basketweave blanket, bunny basket, child’s cap and mittens, openwork placemats, woven shoulder bag, and more.AUTHOR BIOS: Sharon Silverman is a writer and crochet designer based in West Chester, Pennsylvania. She is a member of the Crochet Guild of America. Annie Modesitt is a knit and crochet designer and instructor from South Orange, New Jersey. Her work is featured regularly in books and magazines, including the Interweave Knits crocheting issue, and she maintains an active teaching schedule. Annie is the editor of the 2006 Crochet Pattern-a-Day Calendar. Alan Wycheck is an award-winning photographer based in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Excellent reference material
Having purchased a previous Stackpole on rug hooking, I knew that this one would be good as well.I was not disappointed.This is one of the books on crochet that I reference the most.The dialogue is clear and concise which excellent pictures to reference the written material.The projects start out with the basics and progress to more difficult tasks.Excellent book to add to your library on crochet especially when beginning to learn how.

Great Crochet Book
I really loved this book.I've never been able to "get it" before, but with this book's help, I am actually able to crochet!

The instructions are excellent and don't leave anything out.The photos are clear and the illustrations are helpful.If you're new to crochet, this book will show you exactly how to do the patterns. It explains different types of yarn as well, so you don't go out and buy the wrong thing.

The projects are a nice variety; the apparel and accessories are fashionable and contemporary.Have fun trying it out!

The Way to Crochet
This book has everything you need to know to begin the craft of crocheting. The instructions are extremely helpful, and the photographs and sketches tell you exactly how to proceed. No step is omitted here. There are a variety of projects; my favorite is the basketweave blanket. The "Tips", highlighted in yellow, are like having a personal instructor looking at your work. When the book is opened to the page you are working on, it lies flat because of its spiral binding.
Reviewer from Jenkintown ... Read more

Product Description
At last, crocheters without the benefit of a friendly instructor can find th help they need in Crocheting in Plain English.Even if you've never held a crochet hook before, Maggie Righetti's sound instructions and encouragement will help get you startd.If youre an experienced crocheter, you'll find dozens of tips for perfecting your techniques.This comprehensive, common-sense guide covers virtually everything you need to know about crochet:

Selecting threads and yarns
Determining gauge
Working with the right tools
How to interpret patterns and instructions
Increasing and decreasing
How to fix mistakes
Basic stitches (chain, double, triple, slip)
Sixteen different fabric pattern stitches
Assembling the finished product
How to block, clean, and care for crocheted articles
and much more

Each technique is illustrated with clear drawings, charts or photos. Complet with a detail glossary of crochet terms, Crocheting in Plain English is one sourcebook no crocheter should do without.
... Read more

Customer Reviews (32)

Good, but not Great.
This is a good book for beginners, but I feel that you do need to be warned that there is ALOT of reading, and the print is rather small. The diagrams are not the best in the world, but the instructions are written just as the title states "in plain English". There is a great deal of details in this book regarding anything & everything that deals with Crocheting.

Excellent for all levels
I've been crocheting seriously for over ten years now and this is the book to which I refer everytime I need to recall a specific motif, or, get an idea for a new motif. But this book would be terrific for beginners as well as experienced "yarners". My sister thought she was holding the hook "the wrong way" until I showed her that, yes, there are two ways to hold that hook! Excellent and easy to understand!

S. Sam

Crochet in Plain English
Iam a beginner andthis book has been my Bible.She covers about everything a beginner should know.I referto it constantly.

Great book
This book is the only one you need for crocheting.If you are new to crocheting, you will truly appreciate this book.The author practically hand-holds you through the process.If you are experienced at crocheting, this book makes a handy reference guide.This is not one of those "dry" how-to books.I found her book a delight to read and re-read.

Good for beginners
This book is very good for someone with little or beginner knowledge of crochet.Easy to understand, and good pictures. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Good resource, lots of ideas
I have not tried any patterns yet, but the ideas are good and I am glad I bought it.

I learned from this book.
My mom or I checked this book out from the local city library when I was in high school and we kept it for about 5 years, I think.I learned to knit during that time- and honed my crochet skills- with the help of this book.It is where I fell in love with lace knitting.It has one large lace tablecloth in it that I am pretty sure was designed by Herbert Niebling or the Burda design team, anyway.It is called 'Apple Blossom,' I believe.That pattern has written instructions (sadly- since the original German version would have been charted- but at the time- publishers thought they knew what American knitters needed).There are many other many wonderful items for the home.Many knitted and crocheted afghans, placemats, rugs, bedspreads, pillow and cushion covers, and doilies.There are crocheted bowls.The doily selection is not large- but one crocheted star pattern reminds me of a star quilt in it's color changes.It has a very Native American or Southwest look in the book- but you could make it in colors of your choosing.I recommend this book highly if you're looking for a place to learn the basics- or to find some really fun patterns to make for your home.

By the way- this entire book is also included in the larger book- Better Homes and Gardens Treasury of Needlecrafts.Crocheting and Knitting is one in a series.The Treasury book binds all those individual books into one volume.The Treasury includes other skills like applique, patchwork and quilting, rugmaking, embroidery, and needlepoint.

cool book
Yes, it is from 1977 and some of the patterns reflect this partucular decade. But knitting and crocheting have not changed that much from then to now - just the colors are different.
This book has over 50 projects, split between knitting and crocheting. As a crobeter, I particularly like the book as it has lots of crochet patterns. There are instructions for both knitting and crocheting, so the basics are covered. the first pattern in the book is the granny square sampler, showed on the cover of the book. By working these various squares, you learn a new appreciation of the varistions of the granny square. It's colorful and fun.
There are some lovely knitting patterns but I feel like I can't comment on the accuracy of the patterns as I don't knit. I will say the crochet patterns are clear and conscise.
If you are a knitter or a crocheter (or maybe both), this book has a lot to offer. I recommend it highly ... Read more

Product Description
Unlike some handicrafts, crocheting doesn't take weeks or months -- in fact, some projects can be completed in just a few hours! By following the illustrated step-by-step instructions for the ten great crafts featured in this book, kids are sure to get hooked on crochet! ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Easy to use
I bought this for 2 of my nieces who are learning to crochet. They both love it and how easy it is to use. Now their mom is learning how to crochet. She said the book was simple and easy to follow. ... Read more

Product Description
Are you a visual learner?Do you prefer instructions that show you how to do something--and skip the long-winded explanations? The Visual Learning System in Teach Yourself VISUALLY Knitting and Crocheting breaks down the complexities of these crafts into graphical two-page lessons that simplify learning. Inside you’ll find clear, step-by-step instructions covering all the basics of knitting and crocheting.Full-color photographs show you how to work with needles and yarns, fix common mistakes, and master finishing techniques. Plus, you get an impressive selection of patterns and shortcuts that will have you creating sweaters, scarves, pillows, and more.

• "Question & Answer" sidebars provide practical tips and tricks
• Large color photos demonstrate how to correctly perform each skill
• Step-by-step instructions explain beginner to more advanced techniques
• Two-page lessons offer skills you can practice immediately

Customer Reviews (9)

THE BEST beginning knitting book out there
This book is a fantastic book for a new knitter, or for a "lapsed" knitter who needs to review some basic skills.The book uses lots of excellent, close-up, high-contrast color photographs to illustrate every step of the knitting (and crocheting) process.

The book will show you how to cast-on, both a single cast-on method and two double cast-on methods.There are also photos of a wide variety of pattern stitches knitted using only the basic knit and purl stitches.Then the book moves onto more complicated techniques, such as increasing, decreasing, and knitting with double-pointed needles.Again, excellent photographs will guide you every step of the way.

Finally, the book includes clear, concise directions for a number of fun projects.And the projects are not all trivial, either. I especially recommend the design called "cozy knit socks", which yields an awesome pair of socks which any knitter would be proud to wear.

Whether you are a new or returning knitter, this is an essential reference book.

Simply the best
With its clear, color, step-by-step photographs and coverage of nearly every knitting technique a beginner or even an intermediate knitter might need, this book--which has now been reissued under a different title, Maran Illustrated Knitting and Crocheting--is simply the best knitting instruction book I have ever seen for those of us who learn how to do things by seeing rather than by reading.I've given multiple copies to fellow knitters, and I have two copies myself in case one actually falls apart from heavy use.It's an unassuming volume from a small family-run press that may well become the indispensable foundation of your knitting library.If you are a visual learner who wants to knit but haven't learned because you don't have someone to teach you in person, this book is the answer.Enjoy!

Excellent book
This is one of my favorite reference books.I'm a visual learner and the color photographs with contrasting yarn colors are wonderful!Lots of other books have ink illustrations and I find those difficult to translate sometimes.I also like the fact that it has crochet info in it too because some knitting patterns require basic crochet skills.

Great transaction
The book was as described and received in a timely manner. Thank you!

Just Wonderful
I purchased on the recommendation from one of the employees at my favorite yarn shop.She was right on the mark.I learned to knit back in the eighties, but hadn't kept up my skills.I really needed something that knows a beginner is just that; a beginner.The instructions and pictures really helped when my Vogue book left me clueless.I loved the book so much that I purchased a second one for my sister-in-law, mainly because of the pictures.Her second language is english and has difficulty with our written instructions.She's also thrilled with the book, since I can't pop overseas to help her with her knitting problems.If you want something that is clear and consise, this is the book for you. ... Read more

Product Description
Describes yarns, wools, fibers, needles, tools, and basic stitches for both crocheting and knitting. Includes patterns in both arts for several useful items. ... Read more

Product Description

Customer Reviews (28)

Best basic crochet book!
I love this book. I had some experience crocheting when I received it as a gift. I wish I had it sooner, before I was too set in my ways. It shows different ways of doing the same stich, etc. I can think of only 2 things I know that isn't in here. If you just want to learn the stitches, etc. without having to make it in a pattern (if like me, usually one you have no desire to make), then this is the book for you. I have made a few things without any pattern thanks to this book. It has wonderful pics with simple instructions underneath them. I haven't tried every single thing in this book, but I haven't found any problems with it so far. I wish I had this book, when I was learning crochet. I had a learn to crochet kit, which had unclear b&w pics. I almost gave up learning it. I'm so glad I stuck with it. It's my favorite hobby.

Great photographs!
I have a large collection of books on crochet, and I don't think there is another one that has better photographs of stitches than this one!This proves they could all have better pictures.I especially recommend it for beginners.

Superb!
Item was described as in almost new condition and it was in perfect condition.My library's copy isn' even in this good of shape!

Had to Have it!
This is a great "go to" reference book on crochet stitches.I've created my own original projects from stitches in this book!

Thorough and Invaluable Resource
As a beginner student of crochet, I have found this book an extremely thorough resource both for remembering the basic stitches and for learning new ones. What I like most about this book, however, is the broad spectrum of lessons that it teaches. While many books teach beginners a few random patterns, this volume teaches the student what's needed to create his/her own projects. It offers instruction on such things as Irish lace, geometric shapes, working with two or more colors, methods for increasing/decreasing, button-holes, and much more.

If I did have a complaint about the book, it would be that the grouping of lessons seems to be somewhat scattered. For example, a few lessons on edging will be separated from the others by a lesson or two on Irish lace.

I should also mention that if you are looking for a book of patterns, this is not it. This book is best used for learning specific techniques that can be be implemented in creating your own patterns or can be used to increase your ease in completing other's patterns.

That being said, my final opinion is that Crocheting School is an invaluable addition to any crocheter's library. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Wonderful Book of Information
This book arrived in excellent condition considering how long ago it was published.The basic information and lovely photographs in it have been very helpful to me.....this was a great purchase.

Excellent book about Knitting.
Excellent book about knitting. I havn't seen any better, and the conditon of the book was in excellent shape too. Very pleased with my purchase. ... Read more

Product Description
Produced by the award-winning marganGraphics Group, Maran’s Illustrated Guide to Knitting and Crocheting is a valuable resource to a wide range of readers—from people new to the hobby to those who have dabbled in the occasional project to those more involved knitters and crocheters interested in mastering their craft. Instead of describing the myriad ways to perform each task, Maran’s Illustrated Guide to Knitting and Crocheting shows the reader the best way, while the full-color photographs and clear, step-by-step instructions walk the reader through each task from beginning to end. Thorough topic introductions and useful tips provide additional information and advice to help enhance the readers’ knitting and crocheting experience. Maran’s Illustrated Guide to Knitting and Crocheting is packed with essential information for readers who are picking up needles for the first time, and will provide more experienced knitters and crocheters with the opportunity to add more advanced techniques to their repertoire. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (27)

Clear and easy to follow
I taught myself to knit using this book. The illustrations are clear and easy to follow. I had been borrowing this book from the library for years and I was pleasantly surprised to find that it was still available. Let me save you some leg-work......Amazon has the best price out there on this item.

Purchased for a friend
This particular book was requested by a friend as a Christmas present. No complaints so far.

Step-by-Step Photographs
Reading about how to do something is one thing, Seeing it done is another. Getting both is even better! Very well photographed and written. Even a section on how to knit socks.I agree with other reviewers that the Crochet section is lacking. A great addition to any yarn crafter's bookshelf despite.

Great Book
Awesome book for beginners and experienced knitters!I just love this book, I bought it for myself for Christmas and am very happy with it.Highly recommended!! Would make a great gift too.

Perfect addition to your library!
Maran Illustrated Knitting & Crocheting is a perfect addition to your library.This item is well written and approaches each task in a detailed step by step manner.The illustrations provide closeup views with arrows and color contrasts to help even those hopeless knitting & crocheting wannabe's among us! ... Read more

Product Description
Appealing teddy bears in 16 easy-to-follow projects for crochet. Panda Bear, British Bear, Goldilocks and The Three Bears and 10 other huggable bruins. Helpful illustrations and photographs complement expert crochet instructions. Includes clothing patterns, conversion charts, crochet abbreviations. 11 black-and-white photographs.
... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

Teddy Bears were not attractive
Title of my review says it all.I wish I hadn't wasted the money.I won't ever make these fugly bears.

Outdated construction techniques, a couple pluses
Have you ever wandered into an estate sale or a thrift shop to pick up a handmade toy, crude yet obviously made with love?These bears remind me of those types of toys.

On the plus side, the crochet instructions for the loop stitch, the hook conversion chart, and the patterns for bear clothing are helpful.The shaggy bear is quite cute.I did get some ideas for my own projects from looking at how these were put together.

On the minus side, most of the bears are somewhat homely looking, and the construction techniques are outdated (book published 1984).Most of these patterns call for crocheting pieces which are stitched together like fabric, evidence of linear thinking which has been made obsolete by modern patterns which usually call for crocheting in spiral rounds (much easier for beginners and much less work).When I opened the book to begin the first pattern and read the instructions, I said "to heck with that" and made my first custom bear without any pattern whatsoever.

If you're a beginner looking for easy patterns to start making toys, I recommend searching on the Internet instead and not purchasing this book.If you're looking for "vintage" crochet bear patterns, this will give you a place to start.Otherwise I couldn't recommend this particular book.

Crocheting Teddy Bears
This was exactly what I was hoping for. Great crochet patterns for teddy bears, some look like crochet and others look like fantastic sewn ones. Complete instructions and a bonus was instructions for sewing clothes for the bears.

patterns call for obsolete material!
i really wanted to make the cute shaggy bear pictured on the front cover.when i got the pattern book, i found that i needed Unger's Gespa (fringe-like bulky yarn), two 3.5 ounce skeins. gauge 1 st = 1".Guess what?after searching the web for over two hours, i have decided that this type of yarn is no longer manufactured (this book was copyrighted 1984) and i can not find a substitute that will satisfy the gauge.The other bears just look like cheap crocheted toys.Nothing to write home about. Only one star because i can't give it zero stars, even though I can't even begin to make what i wanted to.

One bear makes this a great book!
I like several of the bears in this book but one really stands out.The design for the Shaggy Bear is fantastic.He is a 14 inch bear done in a loop stitch.In addition to looking great he is stitched using a size"P" crochet hook!Quick to make for a last minute Christmas giftor to make in bunches for your favorite charity.I also liked the PandaBear. The Honey Bear, the Koala Bear, and the Polar Bear are crochetedusing chenille yarns and are also very nice.There are also patterns forfabric clothing to put on the bears.The clown suit is really cute. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Great Book(s!) of vintage doily patterns
This is not a single book entitled "101 Crocheted Doilies". This is three seperate books packaged together. They are "Floral Doilies for Crocheting" edited by Rita Weiss, "Crocheting Ruffled Doilies" edited by Linda Macho, and "Crocheting Doilies" edited by Rita Weiss. I was disappointed that the description did not say that these were seperate books. I already own all three and now I have duplicates! I was under the impression that the title "101 Crocheted Doilies" was another book in the "101" series by Rita Weiss. Still, all in all, these are great vintage crochet patterns in new formats and are together for one great price. ... Read more

Product Description
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

NorthernLightsVintage presents ....................
Another downloadable vintage pattern for your Kindle!

PEACHTREE STREET SHAWL

This pattern was originally published in the 1950's by The American Thread Company.It has been digitally edited and converted to downloadable format (by NorthernLightsVintage) for viewing on the Kindle wireless reading device.

----------------------------------------------------------------------
Did you know?Kindle books can now be read on
many other electronic devices?So even if you
don't yet have your Kindle, you can still download
and read the fabulous ebooks Amazon has to offer
for the Kindle!That's right, you can now download
and read Kindle ebooks on your PC, Mac, laptop,
3G device, iPhone, iPad, Blackberry and many
others! (pssst....it's free!)

Learn more here:http://amzn.to/NoKindleNeeded
----------------------------------------------------------------------

Pattern Name:"Peachtree Street Shawl"
Craft:Crochet
Original Publishing Year:1950's
Format:Kindle eBook download

Materials Required:
American Thread Company “Gem” Crochet Cotton, Article 35, size 20
Or
“Star” Crochet Cotton, Article 20, size 20
6 balls White or color desired.
Steel crochet hook No. 5.
GAUGE: 3 knot sts = 2 inches.


--------------------------------------------------------------------------
I have many more vintage patterns available for Kindle
download!View them all here:
http://amzn.to/NorthernLightsVintage
Or simply click on my name: NorthernLightsVintage
(at the top of this page, directly under the pattern title).
You can also type "NorthernLightsVintage" into any
Amazon or Kindle search window for a listing of all
ebooks I currently offer.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------

Thank you for stopping by!Have a wonderful day! :)

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= ... Read more