101 Granny Squares

When ordering this book I thought to myself, how many granny squares can there be? My first crochet project was a granny square. Here I was thinking, if you've seen one granny square, you've seen them all. Well not so. This book is very interestingly unique. Different variations and themes. I enjoyed it thoroughly and developed some very good ideas from viewing it.

The 101 Granny squares do give several inovative uses for a traditional granny square including belts and headbands. The 101 is a bit of a stretch, however, as some of the squares for both of the ponchos are very ordinary and definitely monotoned. The directions are clear, though some projects are split across pages. The pictures are all in color and illustrate the final products well. A few of the projects are done in thread, which would make them incredibly time consuming for the final output. If 60 squares and a few really great projects will make you happy, you will probably enjoy this book.

Quite a worthy collection and best are two by Jackie Young of a beaded granny necklace with gold wire and her bag lady. The beaded poncho is worth the price of the book with unusual squares from several designers. A few designs have been in other collections but if you're into grannies, this is a must purchase.

Editor, Carol Alexander, has put together an extremely creative collection of 101 crocheted granny squares and 43 patterns made from these clever geometric shapes. Using materials ranging from worsted to wire, I was delighted to see the updated versions of ponchos, sweaters, hats, scarves, bags, and headbands. There is a beautiful lace vest made with Luster Sheen. There are baby items,greeting cards, household beauties, afghans, pillows and tablecloths. The showpiece of this book is Bag Lady, a free form and granny square purse that is adorned with a fiesty, crocheted Lady! I love it!!! The granny squares themselves are the best I have seen. Not a run of the mill look in the bunch. Twenty-six designers contributed their talent. The poncho called Cafe Au Lait has 42 different squares created by more than 15 designers. It's beautiful! There is a square made with 3D bunny ears for the kiddies that is just sweet! The book is totally worth it and a must for your library.