63 Easy-To-Crochet Pattern Stitches: Combine to Make an Heirloom Afghan

by Darla Sims, Leisure Arts

Not only will you be able to make the beautiful Sampler Afghan included in this booklet, but you will have 63 basic pattern stitches that can be used for other projects. A Basic Stitch Guide and clear, easy-to-follow instructions are included.

Genres: Crochet, Reference, Crafts, Nonfiction

26 pages, Staple Bound

First published October 1, 1987

Reviews

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an awesome gift. I've read it a few times now.

[Sheri Fresonke Harper · Rating 5 out of 5]

Has many easy to follow patterns and good definitions for stitches, borders, connecting pieces.

[Lynn · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an easy to understand and follow illustrated guide to 63 various crochet patterns --- I have used many of them and enjoy the book! I had no problems using fine hooks and crochet threads and make some mighty nice doilies out of them – work up nice in standard yarn and hooks also!

[Lori · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great instructions

We’ll done! Saving this book as reference. Made this Afghan. Going to make in other colors! Advanced beginner instructions but anyone can do it but practicing each stitch before doing the square.

[Kinzie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Honestly probably better as a reference for patterns. I made the blanket and it is huge. Maybe use a smaller than recommended hook.

[Ashley Hill-Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

great for learning basic stitches

[Marie Segares · Rating 4 out of 5]

This booklet features 63 stitch patterns (6 of which are squares worked in the round) to make into a sampler afghan, with instructions for edging, assembly, and border. I'd describe this as an "entry level" stitch guide designed for someone who isn't quite ready to buy a stitch guide but who is tired of using the "same old" stitches.

What I like:
The special stitches are described within the pattern so you don't have to do a lot of flipping to the back of the booklet. The booklet lays flat, so you can easily read and crochet at the same time. The booklet is more affordable and lightweight than a book. Stitch multiples are included so that you can easily adapt the stitches for a project of a different width.

What I don't like (or what's missing):
Most of the stitches are pretty standard, so if you have any other stitch guides, there is likely to be a lot of overlap. There is no pattern difficulty rating listed. The font is fairly small. There are no stitch symbols, only pattern abbreviations.

I give this booklet 4 stars if it is your first stitch guide, but only 3 stars if you already own a comprehensive stitch guide. It is a good starter for someone interested in learning more stitches or working a pieced afghan.

[Amy Boswell · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a comprehensive sampling of squares (and each pattern for a square includes the stitch multiples just in case you would like to create something bigger in that particular stitch) starting with basics and building up skill levels from each square to create a truly beautiful afghan. Illustrations and tips are clear and very helpful for the beginner and I not only highly recommend this book every time I teach a new crocheter how to hook but I have been using this book for myself for 20 years for a wonderful selection of different stitches for many of my projects.

[Judi · Rating 2 out of 5]

I was very excited to start my project, purchased the required yarn and supplies. I have been crocheting for over 30 years. I began making the squares as instructed (after checking my gauge) and was frustrated when none of the squares came out to the same size. I tried twice and finally gave up. I have tried these patterns twice with no luck.

[Kat Brownell · Rating 4 out of 5]

Better editing would have been nice, but my blanket did turn out beautifully. I had to deviate from the directions on 3 of the squares.