Fashion Crochet - Book Review & Giveaway

Hello Friends and Welcome!

I'm so glad you're here.  Today I have a fresh and exciting new book to tell you about, plus a prize package of crochet goodies to get you hooking in style!  So lets get right down to it!!

Fashion Crochet: 30 crochet projects inspired by the runway by Claire Montgomerie
Carlton Books, (reprint) September 3, 2013
Hardcover, 173 Pages

When Katie from Sterling Publishing contacted me about this new book I almost said no thank you.  Why you ask?  Well, the hard truth is I am about as far away from fashion conscious as you can possibly be while still wearing clothes, and my only experience with the runaway occurs when I happen to pass by Project Runway on my way to National Geographic.  I changed my mind when I realized that it might be interesting to try something new and step outside of my crochet box.  I' d be lying if I didn't say I was nervous about what I'd find. 

When my copy arrived I anxiously flipped from back to front to see what secrets it may hold.  I was quite pleased to find a very  friendly union between fashion forward and traditional patterns.  The book is set out in sections that include: Practicalities, Wraps & Scarves, Accessories, Dresses, Skirts & Shorts, Tops & Jumpers.  Plus the usual intro, resources, index and acknowledgements.  What sets this one apart from so many others is you can actually see the pieces that inspired the patterns.  The work of fashion icons (that even I've heard of) like Stella McCartney and Marc Jacobs become accessible to all of us.  You also get to see the originals in action with some of entertainments most trendy names (Angelina Jolie and Sienna Miller).

There are lots of photographs and whimsical water colors of the designs that give it the feel of a coffee table book.  There are written instructions as well as charts where appropriate.  There's a real variety of styles allowing something for everyone.  The Granny Square Cowl is an updated take on the classic motif.  The Chain Shoulder Bag is a great blend of function meeting fashion.  And the Little Black Dress is a classic beauty with its yoke and sleeves done in an open floral stitch set against the solid form fitting body.  Wow!  I've never seem crochet look as grown up and sophisticated as it does in this book.

I think that's one of the reasons why I found myself enjoying these patterns.  While I don't necessarily see myself wearing any of the skirts or shorts it features, it's nice to know I have the means to make them should I want to.  And while they might not all be my style I definitely can see myself carrying the Bobble Bag that I decided on.  If it's looks good on Angelina imagine what it will do for me!

I was hoping to have it finished to share with you, but it's not quite there.  The pattern and extra large chart are easy to follow - although I did get confused for a moment when I started.  For some reason I failed to realize that the patterns are all written in UK terms.  Once I replaced my tr with dc I was fine!  I'm done with the first side and about 10 rows for the top of the second.  The geometric pattern has great texture and is an excellent photo backdrop for the goodies in my giveaway.

All in all I think Fashion Crochet is a unique and trendy collection that will add variety and style to your library.  Most of the patterns are in the intermediate level so a good foundation of basic skills will be helpful.  We often fall back on things that are comfortable and easy.  This book moves beyond  the ordinary and reminds us to push the envelope and take risks.  The world of crochet is a big and wonderful place.  There's plenty of room for chevron afghans, cozy hats and lacy shawls as well as sleek tunic dresses, beach shorts and pineapple halter tops!

Now it's your turn to try something new.  The folks at Sterling have given me a copy Fashion Crochet to share with you,  and I've put together a selection of some of my favorite crochet notions. The giveaway is free, easy and open to residents of the US.  Log in to the Rafflecopter widget below for your chance(s) to win this awesome prize package.

Step outside of your crochet box and take a chance on something new!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Good Luck!

Thanks so much for stopping by and spending a bit of your day with me!
Until next time friends,
Be blessed and stitch & read with love!