Connect the Shapes Crochet Motifs

November 19, 2012
Crochet designer Eckman follows up her best-selling Beyond the Square Crochet Motifs with a book that teaches 100 original motif designs and a variety of techniques to join them. The emphasis is squarely on motifs; only a few patterns are included. Each motif, gathered in "families" of grannies, chains, clusters, flowers, swirls, radials and more, is shown in written directions, charted, and in full-color illustrations. While Eckman takes pains to emphasize that even a beginner can work the "Quick and Easy" motifs, most of these look quite difficult â and stunning, too, such as the layered floral hexagons or the pinwheel swirl. Different techniques of joining create unusual effects, including a 3-D Square motif. Both author and publisher should receive particular praise for clear instructions on and photos of each technique, and for including unusual informative sections, such as the problems in working with variegated yarns. That the book omits basic crochet instructions feels right â this is truly a book for accomplished crocheters. Full-color photos.

Starred review from October 15, 2012

Eckman's (Around the Corner Crochet Borders) specialty is crochet motifs--she has a knack for turning simple stitches with colorful yarn into something fresh and contemporary. Here, she introduces a new batch of crocheted motifs as well as a variety of creative methods for joining the motifs together. Full-color photographs of each motif are included, as are written and charted directions. As a bonus, there are 12 patterns that use the motifs and connection techniques covered in the book. This isn't for beginners--readers need to know how to crochet to get the most out of it--but Eckman may inspire some noncrocheters to learn, just so they can experiment with the techniques she describes. VERDICT Eckman's eye for color and design make this an excellent addition to any crafter's crochet collection.

Copyright 2012 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

Starred review from December 15, 2012
This is smart publishing: a spiral-bound pattern and instructional book that actually lies flat, so that avid needleworkers can practice concurrently with reading instructions, and an index that is executed pictorially, in groups of motifs, so readers can quickly find the desired shape or design. Eckman (Around the Corner Crochet Borders, 2010) has mastered not only the craft of crochet but also what her audience yearns for: great color photographs coupled with written and charted directions, a true variety of choice, and some easier ways to cope with connecting dozens of baby motifs to finish a project. Also included are good how-to's with step-by-step photographs, followed by 101 new motifs (which, except for the quick and easy, aren't designated by level of difficulty) and 11 patterns, both wearables and home accessories. Although the designs aren't quite up to the latest crochet revolution, Eckman can easily be forgiven in light of the treasure her book is.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2012, American Library Association.)