Book Review: 100 Lace Flowers to Crochet

Title: 100 Lace Flowers to Crochet

Author: Caitlin Sainio

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

Sainio, also the author of 100 Snowflakes to Crochet, brings us a second volume of beautiful thread crochet. Along with the self-described lace flowers, there are also directions for several lace leaves, a dragonfly, a caterpillar and a couple of butterflies. This volume includes both written and charted patterns for each individual motif. But Sainio doesn’t stop there. She also gives several ideas for different applications for the flowers, leaves and insects, including using them as stand-alone projects, such as napkin rings, corsages and a cute garland, as well as using them as embellishment on ready-made items, such as clothing and home décor items, such as pillows. Really, one is only limited by their own imagination. I am picturing jewelry, hair accessories, glass cozies, wine glass markers…the list is endless! One could even explore making the motifs in heavier yarn and larger hooks for afghans or freeform applications.

While this book may not be appropriate for a brand new crocheter, there is a nice crochet refresher course at the front of the book, which includes instructions on how to read symbol crochet.  The reader is also treated to several eye-pleasing “Floral Collection” photos at the front of the book that will entice you to grab a hook and some thread. Several varieties of flowers are represented here and there are no doubt a large enough variety of blooms to satisfy any flower-loving crocheter. Get your copy and crochet your own flower garden! 

(St. Martin’s Griffin, June 2013; 128 pages, $21.99, ISBN: 978-1-250-01903-5)

Full disclosure: A free review copy of 100 Lace Flowers to Crochet was provided by St. Martin's Griffin. 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.