Cool Crochet: 30 Hot, Fun Designs to Crochet and Wear

Wow! This is an incredible collection of crochet!!! Let's put aside the fact that this is a true blue "up to date fashion collection" many books claim they are - Cool Crochet really is.... There are halter tops, tank tops, skirts, cardigans even your teen would wear, the coolest purses, and the sweaters! Shew! They are awesome! My entire Xmas list Grandma to daughter will come from this book - it's that good! This book is also beautifully illustrated: gage instructions -diagrams of the patterns with measurements - several pictures of each project. "Complete" easy to follow instructions - one of the easiest I've ever come across. There is a full explanation of every aspect of the project... the weight of the yarn, how many ounces, etc. This makes it very easy to substitute. BTW Red Heart Sport works great for all of the projects calling for a specialty sport weight yarn. In fact I've subbed all the yarns for Red Heart yarns - much cheaper and every project has turned out extremely well! Finger weight: use Red Heart baby, bulky use Red Heart Giant Pounder... you get the idea. I've been crocheting for about 25 years now (I started young!) and I have many-many crochet books - folks this will be your favorite hands down! It is a must own for any person who craves crochet fashion you can't wait to wear and are proud as ever give! Buy confidently, you will be so happy you did~

Each pattern has the yarn weight listed which makes it easy to substitute from your stash. The how-to instructions in the back are very good with great illustrations showing where to put the hook in the stitch, etc. Absolute beginners probably need more extensive how-to directions, but you could wing it with these. "Cool Tips" like "If you'd prefer a lower neckline,... - this book helps you to be creative and create your own style. Lots of pics throughout the book, including close-ups of the fabric stitch. You get 2 halter tops, a nice bikini that looks easy to make, 3 bags, a skirt, 2 hats, a wire/bead necklace, a stole and a poncho, a sexy shaped dress, 3 jackets, a cardigan, the wrap top from front cover, 7 long-sleeved pullovers (one with matching scarf), another scarf, a tunic and 3 summer tops. The skill levels go from advanced beginner to intermediate to advanced. Sizes go from small to 2X. All in all, there are many patterns I love in this book! A definite keeper! :)

I have previously been unimpressed with Melissa Leapman's design books. I felt they were too simple and plain. Now, however, I would like to offer my apologies to her--this book is cutting edge and very appealing!! The patterns are ones I would have designed myself: unique, beautiful, and very wearable! Please, Melissa, write more like this one!! GREAT JOB!!!