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Lalylala's Beetles, Bugs And Butterflies: A Crochet Story of Tiny Creatures and Big Dreams
Hello bug lovers and crochet adventurers!
Grab your research equipment (magnifying glass, flask of tea, crochet hook, scissors and yarn) and follow us into a world full of magic and science, a microcosm of tiny creatures and big dreams! In this book you will find not only a charming selection of crochet patterns to create scrabbling beetles, beautiful bugs and fluttering butterfly crochet amigurumi, but also a wonderful story to read out loud and ponder a tale about growing up; accepting change and the power of dreams.
Watch tiny creatures hatching from their eggs, look on as they munch through a green world, and be astonished at their marvelous transformations when they finally slip out of their cocoons. The wings and hats are interchangeable so you can use the patterns in this book to create new outfits for your little insect friends. Give your caterpillar a new set of wings for every day of the week, or cover your beetle in the most colourful wing suits. Be inspired by nature to make creatures of your own creation. It's a great little world full of possibilities. We wish you lots of fun on your journey of discovery and learning!
Grab your research equipment (magnifying glass, flask of tea, crochet hook, scissors and yarn) and follow us into a world full of magic and science, a microcosm of tiny creatures and big dreams! In this book you will find not only a charming selection of crochet patterns to create scrabbling beetles, beautiful bugs and fluttering butterfly crochet amigurumi, but also a wonderful story to read out loud and ponder a tale about growing up; accepting change and the power of dreams.
Watch tiny creatures hatching from their eggs, look on as they munch through a green world, and be astonished at their marvelous transformations when they finally slip out of their cocoons. The wings and hats are interchangeable so you can use the patterns in this book to create new outfits for your little insect friends. Give your caterpillar a new set of wings for every day of the week, or cover your beetle in the most colourful wing suits. Be inspired by nature to make creatures of your own creation. It's a great little world full of possibilities. We wish you lots of fun on your journey of discovery and learning!
128 pages, Hardcover
Published November 3, 2017
66 people are currently reading
97 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
July 14, 2020
Aarrgh! So disappointed! These are not beetles, bugs, and butterflies. They are generic, featureless baby doll shapes in butterfly dressups. Where are my thoraces and elytra!?! Noooooo!
October 24, 2023
I fell in love with this book. Not only does it have a story at the beginning but the tiny creatures are so adorable. This is one book I might have to purchase.
July 26, 2019
This style isn't exactly my thing--the faces are too human-like for me to find them cute--but if this is your style of cute, then you're going to find this flipping adorable.
I loved the realistic butterfly and beetle wings as well as the Venus fly-trap snap purse (it's going in my favorites/queue), and of course, the little aphid bloops. All the instructions were well-presented and the tutorial section was very helpful, complete with clear pictures. I had never found Magic Loop instructions that "clicked" for me, but this one made it finally make sense! All the patterns use the same brand of yarn (in two different weights), so the overall look of the critters was consistent in style and in yarn, which is always nice.
The story at the beginning to introduce the characters and the world is cute, but again, just not my type of cute.
It would definitely be fun to make all the variations of the patterns in here for toys for little ones, and use them not only to reenact the story told, but to make up new stories for all the bugs, and have fun transforming them into different creatures, by swapping body types and accessories. It's also a fun way to introduce metamorphosis to youngsters as well.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with a free copy to review!
(Cross posted on my blog.)
I loved the realistic butterfly and beetle wings as well as the Venus fly-trap snap purse (it's going in my favorites/queue), and of course, the little aphid bloops. All the instructions were well-presented and the tutorial section was very helpful, complete with clear pictures. I had never found Magic Loop instructions that "clicked" for me, but this one made it finally make sense! All the patterns use the same brand of yarn (in two different weights), so the overall look of the critters was consistent in style and in yarn, which is always nice.
The story at the beginning to introduce the characters and the world is cute, but again, just not my type of cute.
It would definitely be fun to make all the variations of the patterns in here for toys for little ones, and use them not only to reenact the story told, but to make up new stories for all the bugs, and have fun transforming them into different creatures, by swapping body types and accessories. It's also a fun way to introduce metamorphosis to youngsters as well.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with a free copy to review!
(Cross posted on my blog.)
December 28, 2017
The story was, at best, mildly boring... but that's not why I bought the book in the first place! This one is all about the patterns; enchanting, well-written with excellent instructions of such adorable little critters I'm left longing for my crochet hook and eager to crochet every single one of them.
November 30, 2017
Originally published on my blog: Nonstop Reader.
Lalylala's Beetles Bugs and Butterflies is a cute amigurumi crochet tutorial collection from Lydia Tresselt (aka LalyLala) and F+W Media. The accessories and 'gurumi are basic shapes along with a load of variations (hats, horns, wing shapes + colorways, cocoons, shells etc) which will keep any crocheter occupied for many hours.
Included in the book's 128 pages are detailed descriptions of each project, including supplies lists, as well as beautifully illustrative photos for each tutorial. There's a lot of humor in the sidestory as well as the projects themselves. Example: a really adorable crocheted venus flytrap sewn onto a mini-purse frame to make a change purse! There's also a sort of Greek chorus of tiny little green aphids who provide commentary and background on the other projects. (A tutorial for the cute little aphids with variations is included in the book).
The book also includes a little story about a hatching caterpillar and the insects and creatures she encounters, written by the author's husband.
The cover gives a good idea of the scope of the projects with variations and accessories. There are 20 full tutorial projects in the book along with a pile of add-ons. The first 25% of the book is introduction and technique, supply choice, finishing and general instructions with tips. The project tutorials themselves take up the following 2/3 of the book. The remainder (circa 10%) is given over to a good suppliers list, biographical info and acknowledgements.
Available in both hardcover and ebook versions, there's something here for fans of amigurumi and other yarncrafters.
I tested the snail and fly pupa patterns and had no trouble following them (the photos are really well done).
Four stars
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher.
Lalylala's Beetles Bugs and Butterflies is a cute amigurumi crochet tutorial collection from Lydia Tresselt (aka LalyLala) and F+W Media. The accessories and 'gurumi are basic shapes along with a load of variations (hats, horns, wing shapes + colorways, cocoons, shells etc) which will keep any crocheter occupied for many hours.
Included in the book's 128 pages are detailed descriptions of each project, including supplies lists, as well as beautifully illustrative photos for each tutorial. There's a lot of humor in the sidestory as well as the projects themselves. Example: a really adorable crocheted venus flytrap sewn onto a mini-purse frame to make a change purse! There's also a sort of Greek chorus of tiny little green aphids who provide commentary and background on the other projects. (A tutorial for the cute little aphids with variations is included in the book).
The book also includes a little story about a hatching caterpillar and the insects and creatures she encounters, written by the author's husband.
The cover gives a good idea of the scope of the projects with variations and accessories. There are 20 full tutorial projects in the book along with a pile of add-ons. The first 25% of the book is introduction and technique, supply choice, finishing and general instructions with tips. The project tutorials themselves take up the following 2/3 of the book. The remainder (circa 10%) is given over to a good suppliers list, biographical info and acknowledgements.
Available in both hardcover and ebook versions, there's something here for fans of amigurumi and other yarncrafters.
I tested the snail and fly pupa patterns and had no trouble following them (the photos are really well done).
Four stars
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher.
November 14, 2017
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This is a wonderfully imaginative book. It starts with a short story about all the insects found in the book, and concludes with the patterns. For each insect there are several forms, and if you are teaching insects to a younger audience, or want to complete the story for yourself, you can start with a larvae and end with the finished bug. For the insect haters, these are much cuter versions of the real things. I hate seeing aphids on my plants, but crochet aphids are adorable. My favourites were the stag horn beetle and the snail. I didn't have time to finish the snail yet, but what I did complete was easy to follow. These would make great gifts for kids or a nursery, or just for someone who would want a snail hanging out on their couch. Highly recommend!
This is a wonderfully imaginative book. It starts with a short story about all the insects found in the book, and concludes with the patterns. For each insect there are several forms, and if you are teaching insects to a younger audience, or want to complete the story for yourself, you can start with a larvae and end with the finished bug. For the insect haters, these are much cuter versions of the real things. I hate seeing aphids on my plants, but crochet aphids are adorable. My favourites were the stag horn beetle and the snail. I didn't have time to finish the snail yet, but what I did complete was easy to follow. These would make great gifts for kids or a nursery, or just for someone who would want a snail hanging out on their couch. Highly recommend!
February 4, 2018
This is a gorgeous book and quite original. The beginning pages are a picture book story for children about a caterpillar and other insects who start as larva and then move through the lifecycle of an insect with the caterpillar watching all her friends grow and fly off. The story is illustrated with photos of the amigurumi insects. Then the meat of the book follows with complete easy to understand instructions for every amigurumi in the story plus others. I'm reading an ebook edition from the publisher but this is definitely a book I will buy. I can just imagine a shelf full of the caterpillars in all sorts of different colours!
December 1, 2017
Lydia's designs are some of my very favorites and the most exquisite amigurumi you'll find. This title combines the beautiful images of the completed designs with instruction seamlessly. You'll find written patterns (my personal preference), a few charts, and pictorials. I can fully appreciate how much thought went into presenting the life cycle of insects. No detail is spared, which is important when it comes to the "little things" like material lists. If you're a fan of Lydia's, bugs, or amigurumi, you won't be disappointed.
I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
March 12, 2024
Cute little book of crochet with the patterns progressively building on one another in a clever way. The first 50 pages are so are in a sort of picture book format with the pattern characters acting as characters in a story. For me, this made it feel as if the book wasn’t sure who its reader was, but for someone with kids who has purchased the book to make the critters for their children, it could be a fun element to introduce into play.
Patterns and techniques are clearly explained and photographed, with both written instructions and charts where applicable.
Patterns and techniques are clearly explained and photographed, with both written instructions and charts where applicable.
November 14, 2017
Oh, if only I could crochet!
This book is very, very inspirational.
The life cycle of various insects are depicted in crochet, from pupae to fully formed insect.
I am definitely going to make my New Year's Resolution "learn to crochet"
Very highly recommended.
I was given a digital copy of this book by the publisher F+W Media via Netgalley in return for an honest unbiased review, which I am very happy to do.
This book is very, very inspirational.
The life cycle of various insects are depicted in crochet, from pupae to fully formed insect.
I am definitely going to make my New Year's Resolution "learn to crochet"
Very highly recommended.
I was given a digital copy of this book by the publisher F+W Media via Netgalley in return for an honest unbiased review, which I am very happy to do.
March 1, 2018
Thanks to NetGalley and F+W Media for the opportunity to read and review Lalylala’s Beetles, Bugs and Butterflies by Lydia Tresselt. Instructional book for crocheting amigurumi along with a story of transformation which uses the completed projects to illustrate, plus patterns to make outfits for your amigurumi creations. Tutorials and different stitch instructions and photos are included to help crocheters make the cutest little insects. Purely adorable and helpful too, 5 stars!
March 10, 2018
Super cute patterns - love the venus flytrap change purse. I've crocheted one of this designer's patterns in the past and it was really well-written, easy to follow. I like the versatility here - removable wings to go between caterpillar and butterfly.
April 9, 2018
As always Lalylala's designs are wonderful. Not only is it patterns and ideas it has a enchanting story with the tiny creatures. Two it's a two for one.
If you are new to her designs, they can be a bit complicated but she gives excellent details on each stitch and design.
If you are new to her designs, they can be a bit complicated but she gives excellent details on each stitch and design.
January 5, 2018
Really cute bug patterns for crochet. There is a Venus flytrap coin purse pattern! Quick patterns! Recommended!
March 13, 2018
Very clear photos to go along with the instructions. Shows basics like the magic loop along with others.
February 28, 2019
Love this book, I have three copies. These bugs are wonderful and educational. :-)
January 17, 2020
Beautifully done. Just a delight to read the story of the tiny bugs never mind the well-detailed instructions on how to make them. Illustrations are clear and helpful. Great for everyone.
June 4, 2020
Kapaktaki tırtıl ve kelebeklerin tarifleriyle bence oldukça şirin bir kitap, tariflere geçmeden öne kelebekler, tırtıllar ve böceklerle bir hikaye de anlatıyor. Doğrusu benim çok hoşuma gitti.
October 21, 2020
Cute story about metamorphosis with adorable crocheted figures which includes patterns to make them as well.
November 15, 2022
Love it so much!
January 6, 2023
Adorable kids book, but not the style of crochet projects that I enjoy.
December 12, 2023
These projects are really cute and make me want to improve my crocheting.
September 13, 2025
First of all, stop with this cuteness. Lalylala’s Beetles Bugs and Butterflies begins with a story showcasing all the little bugs you can crochet. The presentation throughout is both creative and whimsical.
I LOVE this pattern book, I will be buying a hard copy for my shelves. I’d say these cute patterns are for advanced beginners.
Lalylala’s Beetles Bugs and Butterflies is a whimsical pattern book that would make a great addition to your pattern collection if you like crocheting toys. This pattern book is also a nice gift for the amigurumi crocheter in your life.
I LOVE this pattern book, I will be buying a hard copy for my shelves. I’d say these cute patterns are for advanced beginners.
Lalylala’s Beetles Bugs and Butterflies is a whimsical pattern book that would make a great addition to your pattern collection if you like crocheting toys. This pattern book is also a nice gift for the amigurumi crocheter in your life.
Read
October 18, 2022Cute book, with fun facts about various bugs and a narrative accompanying the amigurumi patterns. I appreciated the fact that various life stages were presented as costumes that can be put on or taken off (like the pupa and butterfly stages of the caterpillar); nicely multipurpose dolls. Also oddly (or not, considering the nature of nature) bloodthirsty; two characters are (implied to be) consumed by the end of the book.
December 5, 2017
I have adored lalylala’s crochet from afar for ages but this book is a beautiful step by step book for her complicated but beautiful butterflies and beetley bugs.
February 20, 2018
Love this book, the story is so very cute, and I can just see using the book to make the characters complements the story. A wonderful idea and such easy patterns to crochet, hours of fun for both the maker and the recipient.
The instructions are quite easy to follow and well illustrated, the photos are just wonderful as are the details I the little critters
The instructions are quite easy to follow and well illustrated, the photos are just wonderful as are the details I the little critters
January 9, 2018
I love the patterns in this book.
Wonderfully clear patterns with lots of pictures to aid the descriptions. These would make a great lifecycle learning aid for younger children. I would never have expected to say that a fly was "cute" ... but in this book it actually is.
Wonderfully clear patterns with lots of pictures to aid the descriptions. These would make a great lifecycle learning aid for younger children. I would never have expected to say that a fly was "cute" ... but in this book it actually is.
May 6, 2018
Extremely cute and original. Easy step by step tutorials. This can be a very good gift for mothers and grandmothers on this mothers day.
January 2, 2019
The publisher was kind enough to provide me with a copy of this book to review. All opinions are my own and honest.
This book is AMAZING! It starts off with a cute little story to go along with the characters that you crochet. It then goes into the techniques and skills that you need to make the characters. This book is great even for beginners as it shows (with pictures!) how to do each technique. If you get stuck and need more of a visual than the pictures show you can find video tutorials on the website. The book finishes with twenty different characters and pieces to make. Some are basic, some a bit more advanced, all super cute and fun to make. With different colours you can make a ton of different combinations. The only thing I wish this book had is more characters :) I love the ones that are included but as the title states there are only beetles, bugs, and butterflies. The author does have other patterns for sale on her website as well as some free patterns. I highly recommend this book for not only the cute patterns but the adorable story and amazing tutorials that even beginner crocheters can follow.
This book is AMAZING! It starts off with a cute little story to go along with the characters that you crochet. It then goes into the techniques and skills that you need to make the characters. This book is great even for beginners as it shows (with pictures!) how to do each technique. If you get stuck and need more of a visual than the pictures show you can find video tutorials on the website. The book finishes with twenty different characters and pieces to make. Some are basic, some a bit more advanced, all super cute and fun to make. With different colours you can make a ton of different combinations. The only thing I wish this book had is more characters :) I love the ones that are included but as the title states there are only beetles, bugs, and butterflies. The author does have other patterns for sale on her website as well as some free patterns. I highly recommend this book for not only the cute patterns but the adorable story and amazing tutorials that even beginner crocheters can follow.
February 14, 2019
I am reviewing this book for Lydia Tresselt, F+W Mediaauthor, and NetGalley who gave me a copy of their book for an honest review.
I downloaded this book a week or so ago and then life got in the way and this is the first opportunity I have had to look through and read it. It was a pleasant surprise to find it was a crochet book and not a children’s insect book.
I have not tried any of the patterns yet but cannot wait to dig out my crochet hooks.
On an educational level it is good too as it shows the life cycle of insects. I want to make them all to have in my classroom so the kids can play with them and retell stories.
I downloaded this book a week or so ago and then life got in the way and this is the first opportunity I have had to look through and read it. It was a pleasant surprise to find it was a crochet book and not a children’s insect book.
I have not tried any of the patterns yet but cannot wait to dig out my crochet hooks.
On an educational level it is good too as it shows the life cycle of insects. I want to make them all to have in my classroom so the kids can play with them and retell stories.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews