The Complete Book of Crochet

While I ordered The crochet version, I received the knit version. Although I am disappointed I did not get the correct book, I am pleased with this one. There is something wonderful in having a volume that my grandma or mom used. A classic is a classic! I continue my search for the crochet companion. However, my needles are ready to make some beautiful knitted pieces!

I rated this book with 4 stars because it was my first teacher in crochet. The "Learn How" Steps for Basic Stitches clearly shows the reader the first basic things one needs to know about crochet: how to make a loop, what to do with the left and the right hand, how to make the chain stitch, slip stitch and single crochet... up to triple treble crochet. And there's an easy project to apply each stitch to give any beginner enough confidence on doing the stitch. The illustrations complement the easy-to-follow directions.There are enough projects on this book (from head bands, hats, bags, slippers... even the blouse/vest patterns are in vogue again... to doilies, table runners, floor rugs) to keep you inspired, filled with crocheted things, and busy your whole life. And yes! there's even a chapter on the afghan stitch or tunisian crochet, with the same clear instructions and drawings on how to execute the stitch, that I learned it easily even before I acquired my own afghan needle.(Of course there are interesting afghan projects, too.)There is also the chapter on gift ideas which include baby booties, a doll, toy dog, ball, basket. There's a chapter for "pineapple" patterns, one for filet and one for baby clothes. Though there are no charts (and the book I have only has black and white photos), I still felt that desire (which is probably common to crafters like me) to want to try the projects because of the clearly written instructions of the author. Once you try and see a finished project, you'll always feel that you can execute the next one you start. I might add though that one cannot find stitches like the reverse (single) crochet stitch or the fpdc (front post double crochet)in this book. I think these are late additions to the craft, considering that the original copyright of the book is 1946... and the one I have is a re-print in 1971. Also, this book does not have a stitch library. (If you want a stitch library, you might want to try finding Fran Westfall's Encyclopedia of Knitting and Crochet Stitches.) Overall, I really liked the way Ms. Mathieson wrote her how-to crochet instructions and patterns that when I chanced upon her "The Complete Book of Knitting" in a lonely shelf of my favorite bookstore, I didn't think twice about buying the book. I also learned how to knit (continental style) from this author... and I can't wait to write a review about her knitting book as well. I wish this book were easy to find again as I would like to recommend it to any beginner to crochet who does not have anyone to coach him/her.