By Sandy Amazeen May 25, 2008, 16:50 GMT
This is not your Grandmother’s crochet and in this case, that’s a good thing. Filled with 23 contemporary ideas from twin designers Erika and Monika, these fashions will freshen a stale wardrobe and likely change how you think about crochet garments. Divided into two main chapters, Out and About includes a collection of gauzy wraps, apron tops, body webbing, sleeves and more along with a stunning “Gypsy Duster” created from worsted weight cotton. Paint the Town is all about accessories like the webby “Gothic Shawl”, the versatile “Salsa Belt”, a trendsetting feather choker and matching clutch plus a number of shrugs. The cinched “Reverse Halter” is a dressier, shorter version of the “Gypsy Duster” and the large open triangles incorporate an interesting texture change. The slimming, vertical lines of the “Shrunken Jacket” while lovely the way it is presented, practically begs for additional creative color and texture thus providing room for making it truly your own. Several photos, including detailed close-ups show the designs in all their glory while allowing the reader to get a real feel for how the piece will drape. Several patterns would be stunning with personal additions such as beads, sequins or feathers and most certainly, the authors would applaud readers taking these designs in new directions. Necessary abbreviations along with an illustrated guide to the basic crochet stitches plus a yarn resource list complete this collection which is best suited to the intermediate or advanced crocheter. The fresh designs in this excellent collection will likely inspire a new appreciation for the art of crochet.
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