The Harmony Guides 101 Stitches to Crochet, published by Interweave Press and edited by Erika Knight, is not a normal crochet guide. Instead of being in normal book format, 101 Stitches to Crochet is a box and card set. This innovative style means that the stitches are easy to access and convenient to carry around.
What is Covered in 101 Stitches to Crochet?
As the title suggests, there are detailed step by step instructions given for 101 crochet stitch patterns. These have been selected from The Harmony Guides. The stitches are broken down into basic crochet stitches and crochet motifs. This covers the main areas of crochet and offers plenty to interest crocheters who are interested in many different aspects of crochet.
In addition to the stitch instructions, 101 Stitches to Crochet includes a handy card booklet that outlines the basics of crochet. This includes:
- Information about hooks
- Step by step guide to making the core crochet stitches
- Information about gauge
- Abbreviations
The Cards
Each card is a handy size and has a full color picture of a swatch of crochet on the front complete with step by step instructions as well as symbols on the rear. This format is very useful for crocheters who often find trying to keep a crochet book open, while concentrating on the finer points of a stitch construction, problematic. The large photograph of the stitch is very clear and gives the crocheter a good appreciation of the stitch and how it can be used. The cards fit in a sturdy and good quality box.
Crochet Stitches and Motifs
There are stitches for both experienced and beginner crocheters alike. In addition to 'old favorites' there are some interesting variations and new interpretations of traditional patterns. There is a wide range of motifs and even experienced motif crocheters will appreciate some of the more innovative ideas.
Positive Aspects of 101 Stitches to Crochet
This is an excellent selection of stitches and there are several really positive aspects to 101 Stitches to Crochet. These include
- Ease of use – the cards are perfect for carrying around
- Clear and instructive photographs
- Wide range of patterns
- Good quality cards and box
Negative Aspects of 101 Stitches to Crochet
There is one negative aspect of 101 Crochet Stitches to Crochet and this is that it does not state whether the stitches use US or UK stitch terms. This is a major drawback for crocheters outside of the US and can cause confusion.
Conclusion
This is an innovative way to present crochet stitches and the quality is excellent. This will be a useful addition to the work box of crocheters of all levels. The beautiful photography shows the stitches clearly allowing the crocheter to really get a feel for the stitch construction.
Note: Crocheters who own The Harmony Guides crochet books may want to check and ensure that this box set offers enough of a point of difference to justify its purchase.
Further Information:
- Publisher - Interweave Press
- Editor - Erika Knight
- Paperbound, 5¼ x 6½ with 8-page booklet
- 101 photographs
- ISBN 978-1-59668-101-9
- Published - October 2008
Kate Pullen - Kate Pullen is a freelance writer specializing in arts and crafts , and is an accomplished craftsperson. As well as being a designer / ...
