Melissa Leapman’s Indispensable Stitch Collection has truly become indispensable to me since I first got it in the fall, so of course I was excited to receive a copy of her Designer Crochet: Accessories
Crochet Accessories for a Head-to-Toe Look
In the introduction, Melissa writes,
“When my paternal grandmother, Ada Leapman, taught me this craft when I was four, I bet she never imagined we’d see New York and European couture and designer houses featuring crocheted fashion on the catwalk, but apparently, some folks knew it all along. This book is for us.”
This is a great premise upon which to build a collection of crochet accessories. The idea is that accessories can be used to elevate any outfit into something more special, into “fashion”. Each project commits to this theme, making the items perfect for anyone who wants to look good from head-to-toe. These projects are versatile, interesting and on-trend, which also makes them great patterns to rely on when crafting gifts for others.
Variety of Accessories
This book has a terrifically varied collection of crochet patterns. There are 3-5 patterns each for purses, hats, shawls, scarves and jewelry. Many are worked in a single color throughout, making for a great accessory that can go with a diverse array of outfits. However, there are also plenty of patterns in the collection that are multi-colored to keep things interesting. Some patterns use basic crochet stitches while others incorporates techniques like cabling, faux Fair Isle, post stitches, and popcorn stitches.
About the Crochet Patterns
Each of the crochet patterns in this book comes with detailed written instructions as well as a crochet symbol chart. The resources at the back of the book include information on how to work the basic stitches and how to read the symbol charts, in case you need a refresher on either of these things as you work. Where necessary, some patterns have additional drawings showing assembly information. And of course they all have photos of the item as viewed from different angles. One of the outstanding bits of information offered in this book is an “alternative yarn choice” for every pattern, giving you not only some options but helpful insight into good substitutions for each project.
What Others Have To Say
This crochet book has gotten the attention of a number of excellent crocheters. Moogly notes, “From heavily textured to lace, cables to colorwork, there is something for every look!” Oombawka Design says that the book “offers accessory options for every occasion and every crocheter!”. And reviewer Maryann over on Amazon says, “Start with this book if you want to learn how to crochet. Easy to follow instructions with some diagrams. The colorful pictures also make it easy to envision.”
