Giveaways are a lot of fun and this one is no exception! CGOA's Professional Development Committee is excited to tell you about a fabulous free giveaway sponsored by Lion Brand yarn.

Lion Brand is the proud sponsor of Professional Development Day which will be held in Indianapolis, IN on July 17 and in Charlotte, NC October 2. You can find all the details here http://www.knitandcrochetshow.com/ and we hope you can join us for at least one show!

What Can You Win?

Take a look and see the fabulous prize package you can win. (Disclaimer: All photos shown are meant as samples only. Yarn photos do not indicate the color that may be included in the prize package.)

Copyright: All photos are copyright Lion Brand Yarn and are used with permission.

• A pack of Lion Brand's newest yarn release, Heartland, and the Royal Triangle Shawl pattern

• A pack of Bonbon mini-skeins and the Mini Granny Square Bookmarks pattern

• A skein of Kitchen Cotton and the One Ball Soap Bag pattern

• A tape measure, tote bag, and crochet hook

How Can You Enter?

To enter, simply comment on this blog post. If you've attended Professional Development Day in the past, tell us what is your favorite part about it! If you've never been, tell us why you would love to attend. You can also earn a second entry by visiting and "liking" the CGOA Professional Development Facebook page.


Contest Rules
Contest will be managed by the Rafflecopter app on the CGOA Professional Development Facebook page. Winner will be selected by random drawing by Rafflecopter.
Open to U.S. and Canadian residents only.
Must be 18 years or older to enter.
Void where prohibited by law.

Contest ends July 1, 2013, at midnight EDT.

Winner will be announced on the CGOA Professional Development Facebook page.

Winner must provide a valid email address to the CGOA Professional Development Facebook page via a Direct Message to the page by midnight EDT on July 8, 2013. If a message is not received by that time, the prize package will be forfeit and another winner will be selected.
This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with, Facebook. We hereby release Facebook of any liability. Winner(s) will be contacted by email 48 hours after receiving email address.

Good luck to everyone!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

20th Anniversary Logo Design Contest

An important milestone, the twentieth anniversary of CGOA, is fast approaching and a grand celebration will take place in 2014. Where did the time go? There is no time like the present to begin planning a fabulous celebration to honor all our members past and present who have contributed so much to our beloved organization.

The celebration committee wants to tap into the talents of the creative members of our organization, so they are having a contest to find the best logo for the anniversary celebration. The theme is A Proud Past, A Brilliant Future and the celebration colors are emerald green, white and platinum. Pins and other memorabilia will be made using the winning logo design and it will also be used for all sorts of promotional materials to spread the word near and far that CGOA is alive and well after 20 years!

Please send some of your creative energy our way; we would love to have members who are passionate about crochet lend their talents to the creation of this very special logo. The winner will be announced at the 2013 Chain Link Crochet conference in Indianapolis. and will receive a pin with her winning design plus a monetary prize of $250.00 from Crochetville. Deadline: June 25, 2013.

Entry Rules:

-Deadline: June 25, 2013

-Submit via email to: CGOA@offinger.com with 20thLogoContest in the subject line.

-CGOA members only are eligible to enter the contest

-Winner will receive a logo pin with the winning design and $250.00 from Crochetville!

-Submit your logo design in color on an 8 ½ X 10” paper. It may be hand drawn and does not have to be camera-ready format.

-Design must be original and never used elsewhere

Incorporate the anniversary colors however you choose; Incorporate crochet or a hook, if possible; Have fun, be creative!

-Individuals may submit as many ideas as they

-Winner will be selected by blind voting by the Past Presidents’ committee and announced at the 2013 Chain Link conference in Indianapolis

-Winner will be featured in an issue of Chain Link newsletter and recognized at the 2014 Chain Link crochet conference

Professional Development Day: Social Media

Are you stumped by social media? Does it all seem very overwhelming? Amy Shelton is going to help take the mystery out of it! You don't want to miss her Professional Development Day presentation of "Making the Most of Social Media"!

Facebook. Twitter. Pinterest. Instagram. LinkedIn. Ravelry. Crochetville. There are so many social media sites, and a designer has so little time. Amy Shelton helps our professionals learn the benefits of each site and shows how to create an action plan for spending online time wisely and effectively. Sign up today!

Visit Knit & Crochet Show for more information.

Book Review: Tunisian Cables to Crochet

Title: Tunisian Cables to Crochet

Author: Kim Guzman

Book Review by Marie Segares (www.undergroundcrafter.com)

Many crocheters look upon knit cables with envy and now there’s a book that can help you to make stunning crocheted cable projects.

Tunisian Cables to Crochet by Kim Guzman explores the world of Tunisian crochet cables, which look more similar to knit cables than cables crocheted with post stitches.

The book starts off with a friendly introduction from Kim, and moves quickly into the Basic Stitches section. If you are new to Tunisian crochet or need a refresher, this section includes written directions along with process photos of the basic Tunisian crochet stitches used in this book. 

In Step-by-Step Tunisian Cables, Kim introduces her method for creating Tunisian cables, which is a different technique from what I’ve seen described in other books and, from what Kim tells me, this method is different than what she's used in the past as well--an all-new method of doing Tunisian cables. This section includes detailed instructions along with multiple process photos for both right- and left-leaning cables.

 

Kim then shares 11 intermediate level patterns featuring several types of Tunisian cables. The projects are made with heavier yarns (medium and bulky weight) so that the dimensionality of the cables is really emphasized.  Kim’s projects are in a range of sizes so you can practice your cable techniques on something small, like the Geneva Headband, or something large, like the Verona Ruana.  Several of the larger projects are created using a join-as-you-go method, so several smaller components form the final project and some projects allow you to use a regular crochet hook instead of the longer Tunisian (afghan) hook. The book finishes with appendices that include metric conversion and an illustrated stitch guide.

All of the patterns in this book are rated intermediate, but Kim includes detailed instructions of Tunisian crochet basics and her method for cables.  As a result, a (patient) advanced beginner could also dive into these projects.  The patterns are written with abbreviations and there are no stitch symbols used in this book.  For Tunisian crochet newbies, Kim references the relevant instruction pages when stitches or cables are first introduced in each pattern. 

Although there are 11 great projects in this book, it is really more of a “technique” book than a project book. (Ravelry members can see all of the projects from the book here.)  Even if the particular projects are not in your style, this is the most comprehensive book on Tunisian crochet cables available. Once the reader is comfortable with Kim’s method, he or she can easily adapt other Tunisian crochet cable patterns. 

For readers who need more support, there is an online companion class, Tunisian Cables and Lace, available for $24.95 through Annie’s Catalog. (CGOA members, remember to use your membership ID for your CGOA-discounted rate.)

I would recommend this book to crocheters interested in expanding their Tunisian crochet repertoire, and to crocheters who don’t knit but like the look of knit cables. Although Tunisian crochet cables can be tricky, this book provides a lot of detailed instruction that can help out a Tunisian crochet newbie.

Project types: 3 scarves, 3 wraps/ruanas, 2 hats, 2 mitts, 1 headband

Skill levels: Intermediate

Retail price: $9.95

Full disclosure: A free review copy of Tunisian Cables to Crochet was provided by Annie's Publishing. Although I accept free products for review, I do not accept additional compensation, nor do I guarantee a positive review.  My reviews are based entirely on my honest opinions.

Book Review: Reversible Baby Afghans

Title: Reversible Baby Afghans

Author: Barbara Shaffer

Book Review by Jennifer J. Cirka (www.jaybirddesigns.com)

When I saw the stunning blanket design on the cover of Barbara Shaffer's book, Reversible Baby Afghans, I immediately fell in love and knew I had to review this book. The impressive ripple design with the bold color accent, the fantastic textured stitches, and splendid photography shown on the cover intrigued me to see what more Ms. Shaffer had to offer. I wasn't disappointed.

Her book features 5 beautiful designs perfect for baby, or anyone else for that matter! I love how she incorporates post stitches to create surprising details, and how those details translate to the opposite side of the blanket. Sometimes it was hard for me to tell which side I liked better. All of the patterns in the book are of intermediate skill level and use light weight yarns. The directions are clearly written and I enjoyed the beautiful photography. In the back of the book you will find the general instructions along with some definitions.

Last night, my husband conveniently reminded me that a co-worker is soon to have a baby. So what did this crocheter do? Of course I grabbed some baby pink yarn and a hook and got right to work on the Building Blocks design featured in Barbara's book. I really am happy with how it is turning out. The pattern is not difficult, but looks stunning. It is easy to read and follow. I can't wait to see how the finished project turns out.

If you are looking for a unique blanket to make that will surely become a family heirloom, be sure to check out the designs in Reversible Baby Afghans by Barbara Shaffer. It will probably be my go-to baby blanket book for a while because I have absolutely fallen in love with the designs and can't wait to make each and every one of them!

(Leisure Arts, 2012, 146 Pages, $9.95, ISBN-13: 978-1-60900-145-2)

Full disclosure: A free review copy of  Reversible Baby Afghans was provided by Leisure Arts. Although I accept free products for review, I do not accept additional compensation, nor do I guarantee a positive review.  My reviews are based entirely on my honest opinions.

Book Review: Short Row Tunisian Fashion

Title: Short Row Tunisian Fashion

Author: Kim Guzman

Book Review by Reneé Rodgers (www.crochetrenee.com)

In Short Row Tunisian Fashion, the Queen of Tunisian crochet brings us yet another fabulous offering showing us how to create fabulous garments and accessories while exploring the technique of shaping with short rows. 

What is a short row, you ask? 

It is the technique of only working a partial row or rows to create shaping within the structure of a piece. It really is much easier to do than it is to describe. 

In her latest offering, Guzman creates several stunning garments, including the hooded riding cape, which is really two separate pieces that can be worn together or separately for three totally separate, but equally fabulous looks.

I am also very taken by the Sapphire Wrap, which looks like a knitted shawl, right down to the lacy border. 

There are a total of six projects, made with anything from light weight yarn (3) to bulky (5). There are photographic illustrations on the basics of making a short row in the front of the book, and just as helpful photos in the back of the book, illustrating the basic techniques, as well as how to do increases and decreases in Tunisian crochet. 

But wait, that’s not all! There are links to follow on your computer for many of the patterns and techniques for video tutorials to help you master Tunisian short rows.

This newest offering from Guzman does not disappoint; it offers good solid instruction on specific projects. Get this and let it whet your appetite for Tunisian short rows. Who knows? With the instruction that you get from this book, you might even find this book to be a jumping off point for creating your own short row designs!

(Leisure Arts, 2013; 36 pages, $9.99, ISBN: 978-1609006747)

Full disclosure: A free review copy of  Short Row Tunisian Fashion was provided by Leisure Arts. Although I accept free products for review, I do not accept additional compensation, nor do I guarantee a positive review.  My reviews are based entirely on my honest opinions.

Book Review: Crocheting with Lucy Loop

Title: Crocheting with Lucy Loop
Author: Karen D. Thompson

Book Review by Marie Segares (www.undergroundcrafter.com)

Crocheting with Lucy Loop is a storybook on a mission to teach crochet to children aged six to ten years.  The book’s author is Karen D. Thompson, a CGOA Master of Basic Stitches, a crochet teacher, and the owner of Hooksations, a traveling boutique specializing in crochet creations. 

The book opens with a story many of us crocheters are all too familiar with – the yarn stash. Lucy Loop is just one of many yarns waiting to be summoned forth to become a project. As Karen writes, 

“Lucy hoped and hoped that one day she would be picked too. Lucy wondered which fabric she would become. Maybe a nice warm hat or a long scarf! A sweater or blanket would be a dream come true.” 

Eventually, Lucy’s patience is rewarded when she is picked up and works together with The Great Hook to be crocheted into a scarf. 

After the story ends, Karen shares some tips for getting started crocheting with a child, along with a simple scarf pattern. It’s obvious from her tips that Karen has successfully taught children to crochet before. Karen’s enthusiasm is clear on every page of the book, and I think that will transfer to the adult and child reading along. 

Although the book is self-published, the printing standards are high and it looks just like any other picture book you might see on a child’s shelf. The font is large and easy to read, and the pictures are colorful and fun.There are a few minor grammatical errors which will, of course, only be noticed by the adult reading the book. 

The real highlights for me of Crocheting with Lucy Loop are the illustrations by Tony Smith, which use vibrant colors and bold facial expressions to bring the characters to life, and the tips that Karen shares for teaching children to crochet. This book would be a great gift for a young child you want to teach to crochet, or for a parent or grandparent who is struggling with teaching their child to crochet.

Project type and skill level: 1 beginner scarf. 

Retail price: $12.99 ($9.99 Kindle ebook)

Full disclosure: A free review copy of Crocheting with Lucy Loop was provided by Hooksations. Although I accept free products for review, I do not accept additional compensation, nor do I guarantee a positive review.  My reviews are based entirely on my honest opinions.

Book Review: Curvy Crochet

Title: Curvy Crochet, 8 Fashions in Sizes Large - 4X
Authors: Marlaina Bird and Jill Wright

Book Review by Jennifer J. Cirka (www.jaybirddesigns.com)

Fashion

Figure Flattering

Plus Size

These words are becoming more and more popular these days. And the crochet industry is taking notice! Crochet designers Marlaina Bird and Jill Wright are ahead of the game with their fabulous book, Curvy Crochet. Featuring eight beautiful designs, this book showcases sizes large to 4X. You will find attractive fashions along with accessories for larger sizes.

All of the designs in the book are of the easy skill level and use super fine to medium weight yarns. The patterns are clearly written and the designs feature some gorgeous crochet stitch patterns. The designs include a long sleeved sweater, two vests, two short-sleeved tunics, a bolero, a stole, and a felted bag. You will easily find something that you will love out of these amazing choices.

With Spring around the corner, I had to break out my hooks and make the Peasant Top for myself! The style is extremely versatile and the stitch pattern is pretty and easy once you get the hang of it. I think my mom would love an A-Line Vest from the book and, when I find the time, I'd really like to make a Cowl Neck Tunic for my sister.

Jennifer Cirka wearing the Peasant Top
she crocheted herself from the book

Curvy Crochet by Marlaina Bird and Jill Wright is a superior book for all fashion conscious, plus-sized, women and the crocheters that love them. Each design is well worth the time and effort taken to create them. Every classic piece will only enhance your wardrobe and turn heads. You'll happily flaunt those curves while looking and feeling beautiful!

 

(Leisure Arts, 2011, 60 Pages, $14.95, ISBN-13: 978-1-60900-028-8)

Full disclosure: A free review copy of  Curvy Crochet was provided by Leisure Arts. Although I accept free products for review, I do not accept additional compensation, nor do I guarantee a positive review.  My reviews are based entirely on my honest opinions.

Book Review: Crochet Scarves

Title: Crochet Scarves: Fabulous Fashions-Various Techniques

Author: Sharon Hernes Silverman

Book Review by Reneé Rodgers (www.crochetrenee.com)

In Crochet Scarves: Fabulous Fashions-Various Techniques, Sharon Hernes Silverman has created a collection of 21 scarves that vary from basic crochet stitches to more advanced techniques, such as Broomstick Lace and Tunisian. The wonderful thing about this new offering by Hernes Silverman is that with such a great variety of projects, this book is suitable for crocheters at every level as well as beginning stitchers who want to learn more than just the basic stitches.

There are four patterns rated “easy”, eleven “intermediate” patterns, and six at the “experienced” level. The yarns used in the projects vary from laceweight to worsted weight, and every weight in between.  There is even one pattern with the ruffle type yarn that is so popular right now, that anyone can follow to create a trendy ruffled scarf. The patterns are presented with both written and charted instructions, with a page in the back of the book on how to read charts. There are basic technique tutorials in the back of the book. One of the features of this book that I really like are the fact that the illustrations for techniques are photographic, which I think makes the instructions much easier to follow.

Personally, I don’t tend to make a lot of scarves, but the scarves in this book definitely make me want to grab a hook and create some of these beautiful creations! In fact, I am pretty sure that there is a skein of mohair in my stash that is just made for the “Champagne Goblets” scarf. Maybe with this book, I can even get a head start on my holiday crocheting!

(Stackpole Books, 2012; 160 pages, $19.95, ISBN: 978-0811700818)

Full disclosure: A free review copy of  Crochet Scarves: Fabulous Fashions-Various Techniques  was provided by Stackpole Books. Although I accept free products for review, I do not accept additional compensation, nor do I guarantee a positive review.  My reviews are based entirely on my honest opinions.

Book Review: Learn to Crochet Socks for the Family

Title: Learn to Crochet Socks for the Family
Author: Darla Sims

Book Review by Marie Segares (www.undergroundcrafter.com)

Learn to Crochet Socks for the Family by Darla Sims is a pattern booklet that includes valuable information about sock design and construction. The book opens with a friendly introduction from Darla, who explains that the book gives “the crocheter… lots of choices.”  The first six pages of the book are a sock primer. Darla walks the reader through creating a gauge swatch for socks, yarn substitution, and the anatomy of a sock. She explains how to choose stitch patterns to design your own toe-up socks, and gives tips for customizing an existing sock pattern. She includes sizing charts for children’s, women’s, and men’s socks. Budding designers will appreciate the “recipes” she includes. She provides four pages that explain how to design top-down socks (in rounds or in rows; with a flap, add-on, or turned heel; and a tapered, rounded, or gathered toe) or toe-up socks (with an add-on or turned heel). 

After this introductory section, Darla dives into 15 intermediate level patterns. A full-page photograph of each sock, along with the first page of instructions, are included. (The rest of the patterns are continued towards the end of the booklet.) Patterns are written with U.S. abbreviations and terminology.

The booklet ends with a general instructions appendix which includes information on yarn weight, crochet hooks, and pattern abbreviations and pattern reading tips, along with written and illustrated instructions for special techniques and stitches used in the booklet. 

Overall, the patterns in this book are visually appealing and explore a range of construction techniques.  Most are shown clearly in primarily solid yarns, but two socks (including the one on the front cover) use variegated yarns that make construction and stitch patterns less obvious. The booklet doesn't include international stitch symbols and includes mostly women’s sock patterns.

I would recommend this book to crocheters interested in learning to crochet socks, or sock crocheters who want to branch out into designing or customizing existing sock patterns. The design primer and recipe patterns are very clear, and allow this booklet to stand out from the other sock pattern booklets on the market today.

Project types: 9 Toe Up/6 Top Down; 9 Turned/4 Add-On/2 Flap Heels; 3 Tapered/2 Rounded/1 Gathered Toe

Sizing: 1 Men’s, 3 Children’s, and 10 Women’s Sock patterns

Retail price: $14.95

Full disclosure: A free review copy of Learn to Crochet Socks for the Family was provided by Leisure Arts. Although I accept free products for review, I do not accept additional compensation, nor do I guarantee a positive review.  My reviews are based entirely on my honest opinions.