New Crochet Dictionary

The New Crochet Dictionary is not so new...it's many years old now, but this book is a total GEM! It is my favorite crochet reference book by far. If I had to keep only one crochet book, it would be this one. I love the plethora of stitch patterns and crochet methods this book offers. The instructions are so simple and easy to understand. The best part is that you're not limited with what you want to create using these patterns. This past month I created a scarf from sport-weight yarn using the monique stitch. Not only was it easy to make, the pattern was gorgeous and made for a great looking scarf that my mother-in-law was please to receive as a gift. Soon after, I loaned the book to another mom who's an avid crocheter. She fell head-over-heels in love with the book right away. She is full of praises for the book and has thoroughly enjoyed what it has to offer. (I don't think I'm getting it back, so I decided it get another copy for myself.) Be warned: the book is dated in its looks and layout. The photos are black and white. But the patterns are timeless, gorgeous, and inspiring. And the instructions are easy to follow. If you can get past the dated looks, you'll enjoy what this book has to offer. I've since picked up Ms. Goldberg's book on patchwork and quilting and it's another win. I'm now looking to get Ms. Goldberg's books on knitting and cross-stitch as well.

It is hard to believe that so much useful information is packed into these 160 pages! The book is well organized and full of illustrations and photographs that make every stitch, every point made about crochet so clear. I think I found this jewel (copyright 1986 version) at a book sale or yard sale, and am so glad I did. I learned to crochet at my grandmother's knee (when I was about five years old); after being away from crocheting for a couple of decades, I found this book a very comprehensive refresher, and believe it is a great resource for beginning and experienced crocheters alike. Tools and accessories, yarns, vocabulary, and other basics are covered, as well as the basic stitches, and later on, in a well-organized section, pattern stitches. Fur stitches, hairpin crochet, broomstick crochet, and much, much more... even how to convert knit patterns to crochet patterns... is all contained in this book that also includes a detailed index. A delight!