Title: Crochet with Love Knots
Author: Jenny King

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

If you are interested in making lightweight summer accessories, do I have a book for you! Crochet with Love Knots by Jenny King has some beautiful and trendy designs in the famous love knot stitch. Plus, I have a confession to make. I never learned how to make a love knot. Trust me, I always wanted to, but I was intimidated by the complexity of how they looked. So, I decided to conquer my fear and learn a new stitch while reading this book to review.

This booklet from Annie's features eight different and fashionable patterns using the love knot stitch. All patterns are rated easy to intermediate in skill level and use different weight yarns. The booklet includes detailed instructions with photos that excellently describe how to make a love knot stitch, plus there is also a stitch guide and metric conversion chart. 

When I find a little more free time, I am looking forward to making the Sunset Circlet Wrap. I think it would be a great addition to my wardrobe for summer. Something simple to dress up jeans and a tank top while still looking professional. Right now, I'm not sure what color I would want to make it. 

When you are ready to learn a new stitch and make some amazing accessory items, Crochet with Love Knots will make a great addition to your library. 

(Annie's, 2014, 423 Pages, $9.99, ISBN 978-1-57367-539-0)

Full disclosure: A free review copy of Crochet with Love Knots was provided by Annie's Crafts. 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: The Fine Art of Crochet

Title: The Fine Art of Crochet
Author: Gwen Blakley Kinsler

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

First, let me tell you that this is not a crochet pattern book. The Fine Art of Crochet by Gwen Blakley Kinsler is yummy, delicious, drool-worthy eye candy for all crocheters! This is more of a “these people are amazing” coffee table book for crochet lovers. It is an “oh-my-goodness, I didn't know you could make something like that out of crochet” type of book. Finally, it is definitely a “crochet actually IS art” book!

Take it from me, someone who's crochet endeavors started as a hobby. This book will really challenge what you may have always thought of crochet. Even when I became a professional designer, I never considered what I did an “art form.” I consider myself a talented crafter, similar to an amazing woodworker. But the people that Gwen interviews and writes about in this book are more than your average crocheters. These people really are artists. Their work is jaw-dropping amazing!

The author starts the book with a great introduction and a few brief chapters on the history of art crochet. She then moves on to introducing you to 20 different talented artists who's work all revolves around crochet in one way or another. I'm sure you will love learning about these awe-inspiring people. I was surprised at how many of these artists' work is displayed at major art museums around the word.

A few of the impressive pieces really made an impact on me. I was stunned at Pate Conaway's hand-crocheted Garden Hoses. And when I say “hand crocheted,” I mean that he made all the individual stitches with his hands! No hooks were involved! I was also moved by a piece called “Image and Reality” by Karen Searle. Ms Searle's piece consists of a 14 inch tall, three dimensional, crocheted copper wire form of a normal woman's body, but inside this transparent piece is a bead covered Barbie doll. It really makes you think about how women view their own bodies.

If you want to view crochet as something other than granny square vests, this book is for you. Ms. Kinsler says it herself, “With this book, my hope is to not only showcase their [the artists'] exotic, fantastic, and unique works of art, but also to illustrate how far crochet has come from the old fashioned trite hobby it was once considered.” You have succeeded very well Ms. Kinsler! My eyes have been opened and my thoughts changed on how I view crochet...forever. 

(Author House, 2013, 110 Pages, $22.95, ISBN 978-1-4817-3186-7 (sc) & 978-1-4817-3187-4 (e) )

Full disclosure: A free review copy of  The Fine Art of Crochet was provided by Author House. 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: Thread Bookmarks

Title: Thread Bookmarks
Author: Wanda Stevens

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

I was in need of a quick gift and found Thread Bookmarks by Wanda Stevens. I love crocheting these delicate items because they make quick, yet meaningful gifts. Ms. Stevens gives you the patterns for 10 different bookmarks using size 10 crochet thread. Some designs even add ribbon accents. If you like to make small thread projects like I do, then this book would be a great addition to your library.

My favorite design is Beautiful Butterfly Bookmark. It features a unique motif folded in half to create an exquisite butterfly. The bookmark is then accented with ribbons and a small button. Another design that I love is Pressed Flowers which is made from six circular motifs.

Which one did I make? For my gift, I ended up making Birdhouse Border in shades of purple and pastel green. It was gorgeous and my mother loved it.

This book also includes two different cross designs that would look amazing in anyone's Bible.

One thing I really love about Thread Bookmarks is that each design also includes a chart. As usual, the book also contains a General Instructions section with information such as abbreviations and symbols, steel hook sizes, and gauge. I also like that the book is a portable 5.5” by 8.5” size.

Thread Bookmarks by Wanda Stevens is an excellent resource if you enjoy reading, crocheting with thread, and making quick crocheted gifts. 

(Leisure Arts, 2013, 48 Pages, $5.99, ISBN 13:978-1-4647-1195-4)

Full disclosure: A free review copy of  Thread Bookmarks 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: Boot Cuffs & Ear Warmers

Title: Boot Cuffs & Ear Warmers
Author: Deborah Molnar

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

I really enjoyed Boot Cuffs & Ear Warmers by Deborah Molnar. I have been seeing boot cuff patterns all over the internet and I was excited to have the opportunity to make myself a pair. I loved the idea of adding a matching ear warmer to the set to make a complete, fashionable look.

This simple booklet from Leisure Arts features five different pattern sets for trendy boot cuffs with matching ear warmers/headbands. All patterns are Easy in skill level and use medium weight yarns (CYC #4) that can be found at any local craft store. The booklet also includes a General Instructions section that includes abbreviations and terms, hook and yarn information, and detailed instructions for some of the specific stitches used in the patterns.

I would have to say that my favorite set is the Versatility Set. I love the simplicity of it, but was really impressed with the author's suggestions and modifications for three different options for this style. I was equally happy to see her hints for additional ways to wear the boot cuffs.

This is a great book for some adorable, quick crochets that will help you spruce up your wardrobe. You can be fashionable and chic with these great designs. I can't wait to finish my set.

(Leisure Arts, 2013, 48 Pages, $5.99, ISBN 13:978-1-4647-1205-0)

Full disclosure: A free review copy of  Boot Cuffs & Ear Warmers 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: Unexpected Afghans

Title: Unexpected Afghans, Innovative Crochet Designs with Traditional Techniques

Author: Robyn Chachula

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

Robyn Chachula, along with a team of amazing crocheters, has captured my attention with her newest book, Unexpected Afghans. I immediately fell in love with all the beautiful designs featured in this book. Afghans are my favorite way to decorate my home because I love how just a little color or some striking lace or textures can turn my simple brown couch into something you'd find in a decorating magazine.

This book features 29 beautiful designs perfectly suited to fit your skill level and taste. Traditional granny squares, lots of colors, and even Tunisian crochet are all included in this book. Robyn begins each chapter with a stunning pillow design of her own as a great start to the techniques you will be using in the rest of the chapter. She writes wonderful introductions that make you feel like she is talking directly to you while sharing a cup of coffee.

The chapters in this book include Cables, Granny Motifs, Color, Lace, and Tunisian Crochet. Each chapter consists of one pillow design and 4 or 5 different blanket designs by other famous authors such as Drew Emborsky, Ellen Gormley, Carol Ventura, Marly Bird, and Kim Guzman. Also included in the introduction is Advice and Tips from each of the contributing designers. The standard Symbol Basics, Glossary, and Yarn Resources are also included. You'll find diagrams and charts that accompany the designs.

So, if you know me by now, you should know that I always try to make something from each of the books I review. This time is no exception. I happily whipped up a small version of Cabine de Dentelle Afghan by Annette Petavy. This is a lace design from the Granny Motif section. The full size afghan requires 16 motifs, but I made only 4 and turned them into a beautiful, and colorful, blanket for the newest addition to our family, a retired racing Greyhound we are calling Sheba. She is going to love snuggling up in this beauty!

If you like making afghans, than this is definitely a book you should add to your library. Robyn Chachula and her collection of designer friends have created another winner. Unexpected Afghans is an excellent book and wonderful resource.

(Interweave Press, 2012, 159 Pages, $22.95, ISBN-13: 978-59668-299-3)

Full disclosure: A free review copy of  Unexpected Afghans was provided by Interweave Press. 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: 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.