One of my favorite things about crochet is how quickly a project can take shape—especially if you’re using taller stitches. Because crochet projects can be much closer to instant-gratification than knitting, you’ll often find me with a hook in my hand instead of needles. The only problem is, since crochet projects generally require more yarn than their knitted counterparts, I often buy more than I need, and end up with an extra skein. Until now, that beautiful leftover yarn has generally gone straight into my stash, never to see the light of day again. (It’s sad, but true.) So, when Storey Publishing sent me Crochet One-Skein Wonders, I definitely did a happy dance. Goodbye orphaned skeins, hello finished projects!
Before we get started, check out the Button Flap Cape I made when I was trying out a pattern in the book for this review. Too cute, and only one skein! (Plus a little extra scribble-inspired decoration that I added to the surface.)
According to the Workman site:
CROCHET ONE-SKEIN WONDERS: 101 Projects from Crocheters around the World
Edited by Judith Durant and Edie EckmanFinally, a One-Skein Wonders book just for crocheters! Edie Eckman and Judith Durant offer 101 great crochet projects — from jewelry and scarves to bags, hats, dresses, and home dec items — that each use just one skein of yarn. Whatever your experience level, you’ll find something here to delight you!
About Judith Durant
Judith Durant is the editor of One-Skein Wonders, 101 Designer One-Skein Wonders, Lace One-Skein Wonders, Luxury Yarn One-Skein Wonders, and Sock Yarn One-Skein Wonders. She is a founding editor of Interweave Knits magazine, and her designs and articles have appeared in Interweave Knits, Beadwork, and Piecework. She lives in Massachusetts and can be found at www.judithdurant.com.About Edie Eckman
Edie Eckman is the author of the best-selling books Connect the Shapes Crochet Motifs, Around the Corner Crochet Motifs, Beyond the Square Crochet Motifs, and The Crochet Answer Book. She is a nationally known teacher, designer, writer, and editor in both the crochet and knitting worlds. She lives in Waynesboro, Virginia.Retail price: $18.95
What I loved:
1. The projects in the book are organized by yarn weight, so it’s easy to match your skeins with the perfect pattern.
2. There are projects in the book for both adults and children, and, with 101 projects from designers from around the world, the creativity goes well beyond the usual coasters-and-baby-hats limits that most people think of when they’ve got a crochet hook and only one skein. (Don’t worry—you’ll still find the lovely lacy shawls and tea cozies that you’re looking for too!)
3. The more traditional designs in the book are also lovely and creative. I whipped up the Button Flap Cape from the bulky weight yarn section in just a few hours, and I love how it turned out! (And, following the yardage given in the instructions, it really was made with only one skein!)
4. In addition to traditional crochet methods, the book also includes a few Tunisian crochet patterns.
5. When I think of felting, I generally think of knitting instead of crochet, so I especially love the felted Maywood Purse.
6. The back of the book includes a thorough symbol key and abbreviation guide in case you need a quick refresher while you work.
7. Each pattern was easy to read and contained an information box at the top that included the finished measurements of the project, the yarn/yardage used in the example, the hook size, gauge information, and any additional supplies that you might need.
8. Each project was broken into sections as needed, and each step in the instructions was clear and straightforward. Stitch charts were also provided in projects that needed them.
When I made the Button Flap Cape, I followed the directions as written, and my finished project turned out just like the example shown in the book.
What I didn’t love:
The book is well-written and complete. I didn’t find any issues during the course of this review.
Overall impressions:
Crochet One-Skein Wonders is well-organized and easy to use. I loved the diversity of projects and the creativity displayed by the contributing designers. I’m definitely looking forward to trying out more projects from this book in the future.
Disclosure: Book provided for review, but my opinions are honest and my own!
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I’ve seen this book on several of my favorite knitting sites (the knit version as well) and always wondered if it was worth getting. Most one-skein wonder projects seem to be a little too simple but these look like fun to make and things that I would like to give as gifts (or keep!). Thanks for the review and I will definitely be adding this book to my wish list.
Just what I need! Using my next coupon to buy this at the Lobby!
I love this book too! Great cape.
Great review, as always. And I love the capelet!