Book Review: Christmas Crochet by Edie Eckman

I learned to crochet in about the second grade.  I still love it, and for the most part, I find it very relaxing.  I like the fact that it's very portable, and I can usually do it while holding a conversation or listening to the radio or watching TV.  Most of what I know about reading patterns, I've figured out on my own.  So having patterns that have careful instructions is very important to me.   

I love happy, handmade items around my home, especially around the holidays.  Christmas Crochet--for Hearth, Home & Tree by Edie Eckman is perfect for whipping up a few little projects for Christmas time.  It is stuffed full of stocking patterns--eleven to be exact!  And they are truly varied, with something for every décor.  I made one of them, just to test the pattern, and found it was very easy to read.  It worked up pretty fast, too.  I made just a simple striped one, but the book contains a pattern for a candy-cane stripe stocking, a shimmery, white snowflake stocking, a tapestry stocking with variations for crocheting names or initials, a ripple stitch stocking...and more!  I really want to make them all.  Every one is different and beautiful.

This wonderful book has more than just stockings though.  It also has a Christmas tree garland, felted ornaments, a tree skirt, birds, bows and snowflake pillows.  One of my favorite projects is an advent garland (shown on the cover) featuring six different mini mitten patterns and six different mini stocking patterns, to mix and match to your desire.

At the beginning of each pattern there is a glossary of special terms and instructions for any special stitch or technique used in the pattern.  There is also a comprehensive glossary and instructions at the end, as well as information about yarn weight and hooks.  This book is very user friendly and has patterns for all skill levels.  It will add a little holiday joy to your home.  Buy it early and you'll have a stack of projects and gifts ready to hand out by December.  Needless to say, my home will feature a few new crocheted items at Christmas time this year!!

Happy Reading (and crocheting!!),

Lyndsie 

I was given an advance copy of this book by the publisher in exchange for this review.