The Finer Edge

January 1, 2013

Prolific crochet designer Omdahl (Crochet So Fine) explores crocheted edge motifs in this colorful pattern dictionary. The edgings are organized by type of construction (top-down, bottom-up, side-to-side, miscellaneous) and each contains written and charted instructions as well as a full-color swatch. Patterns for crocheted garments and accessories round out the collection and show the edgings in use on real-world projects. VERDICT Several crocheted edging/motif books have been published in the last few years. Omdahl is a big name in the field, and crocheters will appreciate this nicely curated ensemble.

Copyright 2013 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

Starred review from December 15, 2012
Certain needlecraft designers trigger an immediate go-buy recommendation. Omdahl is a new addition to the cadre, joining the likes of her contemporaries Fassett, Epstein, Mably, and others. It's hard to imagine crochet BK (Before Kristin) because her creative and skillful use of its best qualitieslacelike, intricate stitches and modularizationdefines every one of her previous books (e.g., Wrapped in Crochet, 2008; Crochet So Fine, 2010). In her new title, she reexamines edgingsused singly, in multiples, and as stand-alone projectsin terms of their making: top down, bottom up, side to side, and the always welcome miscellaneous. Each of the more than 40 patterns includes a chart, written directions, a color photograph of the finished swatch, and very frequent tips (e.g., the mermaid scales could be used as an overall fabric). Names are picturesque and somewhat descriptive: deco scallops, pinecone, open leaf, and circle coins, for instance. Rarely are all the patterns in this type of reference book appealing, yet from the wonderfully draped Ephesus cowl to the fun-and-funky Petra wrap skirt, every one of the 10 projects is a winner.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2012, American Library Association.)