Big Book of Weekend Crochet

by Hilary Mackin, Sue Whiting

A collection of contemporary designs for crocheters of all skill levels demonstrates how traditional techniques can be blended with contemporary yarns for a variety of projects, including ponchos, hooded jackets, and baby clothes.

Genres: Crochet, Nonfiction, Crafts, Knitting

176 pages, Hardcover

First published January 10, 2007

Reviews

[Ligaya · Rating 3 out of 5]

I think many of these projects would require completely ignoring my family and other household responsibilities in order to finish the piece over a mere weekend. Not gonna happen! But I didn't dislike this book otherwise—there were several pieces that I thought I'd put on my to-do list but then later reconsidered (Lacy Openwork Tunic, p. 50, and the Chevron Classic, p. 42). There is a good bit of variety in here, from halters to shrugs, tunics to long cardigans, plus many quick accessories and kid stuff, too. There is also a good range of yarn gauge and lots of different stitch techniques. Photography is decent—the kids are adorable! And there are schematics and a few stitch diagrams. Every pattern has line-by-line directions. A little something for most people, just not me.

[Jo · Rating 1 out of 5]

The thing about pattern books is that you can absolutely adore one pattern, and wish to see the rest burn. This is how I felt about this book. Only instead of adoring the one pattern, I said, "Eh. It's acceptable." Most crochet books (especially older ones, though this one doesn't qualify yet) are all like, "Ooo, our patterns are so stylish and cool!" But they're not. Most of the patterns will look like they were designed by cat ladies who haven't seen any fashion ads, magazines, commercials, or been in a clothing store for thirty years. Now, I'm no fashion plate myself; I don't really see the point of being über-fashionable and have to make a conscious effort not to sneer when I see "fashionistas." But I can tell you that "Sunny Summer Stripes" tank and the "Little Red-Hooded Poncho" will never be stylish. Especially in those colors. Sorry. Also, your lacy open-weave tops tend to look better over a contrasting color. Just saying.

[Rachel · Rating 2 out of 5]

I've been looking for a project to do, but everything I've found is out of my talent range or really ugly. Most of the designs in here are okay, but once again, the sizes are small and I'm not skilled enough to enlarge it to my size. Also I don't think you could actually finish this in a weekend unless you were working nonstop. I did like the casual jacket, the kid's fisherman sweater (pictured on front) and the rainbow blanket.

[Sarah Lee · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book has a mix of patterns, but has a lot of different sweater/cardigan type patterns. Right now too intimidating for a newbie like me but something I want to come back and check out later when I have more experience.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another library find. Definitely more modern and updated patterns. Great book.

[Emily · Rating 3 out of 5]

It's difficult to find an interesting pattern that uses funky fur yarn but this book has a couple. Some others are also quite nice; I like the rag rug pattern.