Stitch 'n Bitch Crochet: The Happy Hooker

Pro's: Well explained for most stitches, joins, embellishments, yarn explanations, hook info ect., great pictures. Cons: Not enough variety in my opinion, too many basic patterns like hats (there is at least 5 or more). This book is geared towards very new Crocheters (and younger teens/20ish), not for anyone looking for a larger variety in patterns and stitches. There are 2, maybe 3 patterns I would make, but nothing more, I've been crocheting for almost 20 yrs and this book, for me, was a huge disappointment. Go to your local Library to find a copy to look through it first before you decide if this book is for you, I did years ago and forgot that it wasn't for me. I do enjoy and have also, Debbie Stoller's Knitting version of this book and enjoy it. Oh well, I'll make the best of it and probably pass it onto my son's girlfriend who has 2 young daughters if they have an interest....live and learn..

When I began crocheting 8 (!) years ago, I learned from a rather dry, dated instruction book. Since then, I've sought out more modern, sexy crochet patterns/styles. Once I received this book, I had to redo my pattern schedule! Not only are there clear, easy to follow instructions for the beginning crocheter, but the patterns are stylish and refreshing. Each pattern also includes a close-up of the stitches and yarns used - very useful if you substitute. I almost don't want to make any of the apparel, because I know my friends & family will "borrow" them, indefinitely. A great book for New Style crocheters of all skill levels!

This is the first knitting or crochet book that I have felt deserved my review! In my experience, most books like this have one or two really cute and unique patterns, however this book is not like that at all! It has some of the CUTEST patterns that I've seen. I went through marking things that I wanted to make and discovered that I've marked just about everything! The instruction part of the book is fantastic and writting in true Stitch N Bitch form, very easy to understand with great diagrams. There is truly something in this book for everyone, from funky scarves to sweet baby blankets and hats to not your ordinary potholders and on to ladylike purses. They've even included a doormat crocheted from twine (too cute)!!! If you love to knit (like I do) and are interested in the world of crochet, you won't be disappointed with the selection of things to make in this book!

After being so disgusted with crochet magazines and pattern books that cater only to the novice crocheter, this book is quite refreshing (not a freakin' doily in sight!). The patterns are wearable and trendy. I love the accessories such as the clutch bags (pg. 137), the fat-bottom bag (pg. 155) and the 'ruffled corset belt' (pg. 231). I also like the 'Cupcake' top (pg. 165), maybe in not such a pastel-like color; short 'n sweet shrug (pg. 169); I love, love, love the 'prepster' jacket (pg. 191), it'll look great witht at pair of dark wash jeans. My son has already gone wild of the 'jolly roger' sweater (pg. 199); and my first project from this book will most likely be the 'unseamly sweater' (pg. 203), which is my favorite project. Oh, I must mention the 'froufrou' sweater (pg. 211); the 'baroque' jacket (pg. 217). I'll be displaying projects from this book on my blog: http://boundbymyhook.blogspot.com. This book is worth every dime!