Crochet Me

December 15, 2007
As more and more creative young DIYers take up the hook, crochet is becoming the "new knitting." Werker, the editor of Interweave Crochet magazine, founded the online magazine crochetme.com, and many of the crochet designers featured here got their start on that site. Featured are complete step-by-step instructions for 18 fashion-forward projects for crocheted clothing and accessories, plus a wealth of instructional material and inspirational designer profiles. The projects are rated in difficulty from one to four, with one being "crochet it at a party" and four meaning "crochet it in a quiet room." Recommended for public libraries.

Copyright 2007 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

December 15, 2007
This collection of hip patterns designed with the younger, trendier crocheter in mind may just make converts of practitioners of crochets more popular sister, knitting. In an open letter, Werker calls crocheters to action, to experiment and explore, find empowerment through the hook, and grow the online and local crochet communities. Designer profiles and technical essays are interspersed between the patterns and discuss designer inspiration as well as technical aspects of garment construction like reading patterns and Tunisian crochet. Although a glossary of crochet stitches and techniques is included, this is not a learn-to-crochet book, so several technical books are recommended. Projects include a concentration rating from 1 to 4with most being a 2 (or crochet it in front of the TV focus level). Yarns used to create the projects range from acrylic to cashmerino, RedHeart to Rowan and Debbie Bliss. Founder of CrochetMe.com, Werker includes a list of crochet, craft, and designer websites and encourages readers to explore the online crochet community. The lush photography and variety of fashion-conscious projects will appeal to a wide range of crafters.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2007, American Library Association.)