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.