Booklist (American Library Assiciation)
In her second book, popular English YouTuber Fragola showcases a variety of fun and interesting crochet stitches. In addition to the general introductory guidelines on yarn and basic techniques, the author includes an anatomy-of-a stitch section. This section should be bookmarked when crocheters work on some of the more advanced stitches that require working within an area beyond the top loops. The stitch library features 75 stitches ranging from beginner stitches to fun, simple stitch combinations to the more complicated textured stitches. Each stitch pattern includes a clear photograph, a skill level, stitches used, pattern notes, and instructions. U.S. crochet terminology is used, with British terms in italics within brackets. After the stitch library, 25 patterns are given for squares and other shapes as well as five borders. The book ends with patterns for three projects—a wrap, a tote and a blanket—that utilize some of the stitches detailed in the book. The range of stitches is impressive, and libraries looking to replace older or worn crochet-stitch guides should consider this one. — Lynnanne Pearson
Alison Russel's Crochet Craft Channel (300K+ YouTube)
Fully comprehensive, all the stitches from zigzags to waves to granny stitches. Easy to use layout, easy on the eye. I love it! 100% approval.
Library Journal - Jan 15, 2025
Following her book You Can Crochet with Bella Coco, which invites new crocheters to pick up their hooks and create, Fragola has crafted a veritable encyclopedia of her favorite stitches in this handy reference for crocheters of all skill levels. She offers a guide to the basic tools, yarn types, gauge, and essential stitches, all neatly and clearly illustrated with photographs (and aesthetically pleasing because of the calm color palette woven throughout the book). The section on the anatomy of a stitch clearly illustrates the V’s comprising each stitch in a chain, something that can feel a bit esoteric for crafters at first, and each of the stitch types that follows is demarcated based on skill level, multiples, stitches used, pattern notes, and instructions. Fragola also includes patterns that spotlight some of her favorite stitches, including a tote, a blanket, and a wrap that will serve as fun projects and templates for ways to mix and match stitches.
VERDICT A clear and comforting collection of crochet stitches that will serve as a useful guide as well as a source of inspiration.