Slip Knot
Texture is what crochet does best, one might argue, and this book puts a contemporary spin on some grand old techniques for producing those tactile handcrafted fabrics. 'Proud Canadian', Lee Satori, is known for her contributions to the crochet cause on many fronts, from magazine editorship, through design, to teaching and sharing her expertise on crafting TV. This, her first foray into authoring, is a great resource for any crochet nut looking for ideas and inspiration.
Neatly presented on a 'four seasons' theme, the cleanly laid-out swatch instructions in this stitch catalogue, as well as the projects that demonstrate applications for those textures, serve to demystify some of the more fabulous and famously challenging crochet effects. For example, it offers cables, crocodile stitch (couched as 'loose leaf stitch'), 'embossing', and bobbles, puffs and popcorns in multiple guises. I had a go at her intriguing 'butterfly stitch; (p.43), which calls upon an array of techniques to creates what appears to be appliqued butterflies on a plain base (but actually they are worked in as you go). I can see these as a lovely fluttery border on a spring blanket or bag. I was also keen to attempt the 'feather stitch' (p.112) and try my hand at her pattern for the 'summer cable' (p.72).
Much of what's on offer is an inspired repackaging of traditional stitches for today's sensibilities and Lee is a 21st century woman who will have particular appeal to a new wave of young needle folk, which, in turn, will help to keep this rewarding craft alive into the future.
Amazon
I love that this book is so clear there is a wide variety of stitches that can be used for a whole host of items, the instructions are all very clear and easy to follow and patterns are explained really well Id highly recommend this book if you want to expand your range and skill.
Inside Crochet
This colourful book is a stitch dictionary of dozens of textured stitch patterns, grouped around the seasons. Spring shows off pretty tulips stitch, summer has gorgeous rose and strawberry stitches, autumn gives three-dimensional berry stitch and loose leaves, while winter finishes the year with cosy waffle stitch and a stunning snowflake pattern worked in raised stitches. Each season, as well as the intro, also has an associated project, including the beautiful Joanie Shawl and fun Ice-Cream Tote.
Amazon
Add style and texture to your crochet projects
With stitches such as popcorn, waffle, ice cream and strawberry, this book is more than just a feast for the eyes. Clean, modern layout with easy to understand instructions for each stitch introduced. This book assumes you have a basic knowledge of crochet stitches, but does cover suitable yarns and hooks. Each stitch is shown with a colour photo of the sample piece, 3 additional close-up colour photographs showing the stitch in stages, a detailed written pattern and easy to read diagram style pattern. The book contains 5 projects to crochet, so is more of a book to learn stitches to incorporate into your own projects rather than a project book. A great focus on learning new stitches without being distracted by too many projects.
Amazon
Excellent reference book
This is a brilliant book to inspire the development of crochet skills. There is a huge range of fascinating textured stitches, each one clearly explained with descriptions, written instructions, diagrams and luscious photos. There are four full projects which are lovely, but mainly I would say this is a book I will refer to again and again for the inspiration and techniques to use in all manner of crocheted items.
Amazon Customer Review
Take your crochet to the next level
The getting started section of the book gives advice on different types of yarn to use for textured stitches. All the stitch patterns are given in written form as well as charts so whichever method you prefer it's there. Clear step-by-step photographs are also included. My favourite thing about this book is the way it is organised into the seasons of the year. Each season has a selection of textured stitches to try with a project at the end (in seasonal colours) so you can practice what you have learnt. But personally I can't wait to try out these textured stitches in my own projects. I can see this book becoming one that I refer back to again and again.
lazydaisyjones.com
A Collection of Wonderfully Tactile Stitches.
Bobble stitch, popcorn stitch,puff stitch do you know the difference? If not this book explains everything for you. This book will teach you 40 tactile stitches and is suitable for all levels of crocheting ability, from beginner to expert! Lee Sartori has a fun and informative blog and a bright and cheery instagram account. You may already follow her. The book is organised by seasons and I can highly recommend it, if you crochet you need this book!
Why I love Textured Crochet Best:
Excellent reference book for learning new stitches.
Has written patterns and charts.
Abbreviations on each page (so you don't have to keep turning to back or front of book to check)
Clear and simple photographic examples.
A few projects included and some beautiful squares to make up into a blanket.
Favourite Textured Crochet Project?
So hard to decide but I love the Tanya ice cream tote and the Joanie Shawl, although I would make them both in a single neutral colour. The textures are superb!
Machine Knitting Monthly
Perfect for experienced beginners or improvers, there are also extra ideas for advanced makers. You'll start with basic techniques then try lots of new stitches. With troubleshooting solutions and time-saving tips, you'll enjoy crocheting the simple on-trend projects.
