Double Stitch

August 1, 2008
Adult/High School-This book brings grandmother's crochet to the high-fashion world with more than 20 patterns for everything from leg and neck warmers to dresses. The authors deserve credit for the sheer creativity of the designs, even if they're not always practical (one choker necklace pattern incorporates feathers into the stitching, and others weave ribbons and buttons into patterns). Some of the ideas border on the ridiculousthe "hip hanger" looks like a sideways knitted apron worn over pants, and the patterns for fringed halters and bikinis are a little over-the-top even for those with the body confidence to pull off such a look. Projects are packaged and modeled by young "downtown" type women, giving this book a feel that is very different from the majority of craft books for young people these daysthink club wear and hip-hop-inspired designs rather than the indie-hipster looks in books such as Amy Spencer's "Crafter Culture Handbook" (Marion Boyars, 2006). As such, it will appeal to different readers and crafters, and the wide range of projects guarantees that anyone will find at least a couple of patterns worth trying out. A caveat: "Double Stitch" has limited introductory instructions for absolute beginners."Caitlin Fralick, Ottawa Public Library, ON"

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