Get started and learn the basics with this pocket-sized, no-nonsense guide to crochet!
From best-selling author and crafting queen Claire Gelder, this gorgeous mini guide is packed full of crochet know-how, practical illustrations and three simple projects.
Perfect for complete beginners, this book breaks down everything you need to know about crochet: how to read a ball band, how to get tension correct, how to choose hooks and yarns and how to read abbreviations and crochet patterns. The book is structured as a simple 3-step course that will help you progress from bronze to gold as your skills and confidence grow. Start with the basic stitches and simple joining, build up a few more stitches for your collection, then finally add in some simple shaping and some pompoms. Put all your skills together to create three wonderful projects. Filled with affirmations, this wonderful book is the ideal introduction to crochet for a complete beginner.
Alicia Gregov, The Novel Neighbor Booklstore, St Louis, MO “A great guide to crochet for anyone to add to their library. Very clear illustrations which is so important to learn a new skill or to improve. This book is full of inspiration.”
Library Journal review by Lynnanne Pearson "Founder of the UK company Wool Couture, Gelder (Bonnie the Cow & Friends: 20 Loveable Animals & Birds To Crochet Using Chunky Yarn) writes a charming introduction to the craft. Basics of yarn (weight, sizes, and label-reading fundamentals) are clearly explained as are basics of crochet hooks and crochet terminology. The book is written for a UK audience, but an American “translation” is provided, along with gentle reminders that UK crochet terms are peppered throughout. The sections on technique are divided into three levels of difficulty, but this sometimes feels haphazard and, at times, out of sync with how people traditionally learn the craft. The good news is that the book includes projects at the end of every section that will test newly learned skills and stitches. There is even a bonus selection that covers the classic granny square. Gelder is encouraging throughout the book and takes a conversational tone. The book’s drawings, however, are more decorative than instructive and do not enhance the written instructions. VERDICT This simple short book, while imperfect, is a nice addition for larger crafting collections. Libraries should be warned that there are several places where readers are encouraged to write in the book to chart their own crochet journey."
Claire Gelder loves all things hand-made, hand-woven and hand-crafted. She has been crafting for relaxation and fun for over twenty years. In 2015, Claire left her career as an NHS Director to launch her new business, Wool Couture, which specializes in knitting, crocheting, weaving and macrame. She quickly got her DIY craft kits on the shelves of retail giant John Lewis and, in 2017, secured two Dragons' Den (UK equivalent of the Shark Tank) investors to help her pass on her passion of crafting to the next generation. Adding a modern twist to age-old pastimes knitting and crochet, Claire uses giant, chunky yarn and oversized knitting needles made in her own factory. As well as a successful entrepreneur, Claire is also a firm believer in the therapeutic side of craft, particularly its benefits to mental health and well-being. Claire lives in Wakefield, UK.
View titles by Claire Gelder
Get started and learn the basics with this pocket-sized, no-nonsense guide to crochet!
From best-selling author and crafting queen Claire Gelder, this gorgeous mini guide is packed full of crochet know-how, practical illustrations and three simple projects.
Perfect for complete beginners, this book breaks down everything you need to know about crochet: how to read a ball band, how to get tension correct, how to choose hooks and yarns and how to read abbreviations and crochet patterns. The book is structured as a simple 3-step course that will help you progress from bronze to gold as your skills and confidence grow. Start with the basic stitches and simple joining, build up a few more stitches for your collection, then finally add in some simple shaping and some pompoms. Put all your skills together to create three wonderful projects. Filled with affirmations, this wonderful book is the ideal introduction to crochet for a complete beginner.
Praise
Alicia Gregov, The Novel Neighbor Booklstore, St Louis, MO “A great guide to crochet for anyone to add to their library. Very clear illustrations which is so important to learn a new skill or to improve. This book is full of inspiration.”
Library Journal review by Lynnanne Pearson "Founder of the UK company Wool Couture, Gelder (Bonnie the Cow & Friends: 20 Loveable Animals & Birds To Crochet Using Chunky Yarn) writes a charming introduction to the craft. Basics of yarn (weight, sizes, and label-reading fundamentals) are clearly explained as are basics of crochet hooks and crochet terminology. The book is written for a UK audience, but an American “translation” is provided, along with gentle reminders that UK crochet terms are peppered throughout. The sections on technique are divided into three levels of difficulty, but this sometimes feels haphazard and, at times, out of sync with how people traditionally learn the craft. The good news is that the book includes projects at the end of every section that will test newly learned skills and stitches. There is even a bonus selection that covers the classic granny square. Gelder is encouraging throughout the book and takes a conversational tone. The book’s drawings, however, are more decorative than instructive and do not enhance the written instructions. VERDICT This simple short book, while imperfect, is a nice addition for larger crafting collections. Libraries should be warned that there are several places where readers are encouraged to write in the book to chart their own crochet journey."
Claire Gelder loves all things hand-made, hand-woven and hand-crafted. She has been crafting for relaxation and fun for over twenty years. In 2015, Claire left her career as an NHS Director to launch her new business, Wool Couture, which specializes in knitting, crocheting, weaving and macrame. She quickly got her DIY craft kits on the shelves of retail giant John Lewis and, in 2017, secured two Dragons' Den (UK equivalent of the Shark Tank) investors to help her pass on her passion of crafting to the next generation. Adding a modern twist to age-old pastimes knitting and crochet, Claire uses giant, chunky yarn and oversized knitting needles made in her own factory. As well as a successful entrepreneur, Claire is also a firm believer in the therapeutic side of craft, particularly its benefits to mental health and well-being. Claire lives in Wakefield, UK.
View titles by Claire Gelder
