cover image Connect the Shapes Crochet Motifs: Creative Techniques for Joining Motifs of All Shapes

Connect the Shapes Crochet Motifs: Creative Techniques for Joining Motifs of All Shapes

Edie Eckman. Storey, $19.95 (272p) ISBN 978-1-60342-973-3

Crochet designer Eckman follows up her best-selling Beyond the Square Crochet Motifs with a book that teaches 100 original motif designs and a variety of techniques to join them. The emphasis is squarely on motifs; only a few patterns are included. Each motif, gathered in "families" of grannies, chains, clusters, flowers, swirls, radials and more, is shown in written directions, charted, and in full-color illustrations. While Eckman takes pains to emphasize that even a beginner can work the "Quick and Easy" motifs, most of these look quite difficult %E2%80%93 and stunning, too, such as the layered floral hexagons or the pinwheel swirl. Different techniques of joining create unusual effects, including a 3-D Square motif. Both author and publisher should receive particular praise for clear instructions on and photos of each technique, and for including unusual informative sections, such as the problems in working with variegated yarns. That the book omits basic crochet instructions feels right %E2%80%93 this is truly a book for accomplished crocheters. Full-color photos. (Oct. 23)