Book Review: Crochet Adorned
By Claire Ortega-Reyes – 4 Comments| I’ve always kept a lookout for Linda Permann’s crochet patterns. I’ve always thought her creations were whimsical yet elegant and practical since the first creation I saw from her: “Pinups” from Stitch ‘n Bitch Crochet. So when I found out that she had authored her own book, I immediately set out to get a copy. Crochet Adorned: Reinvent Your Wardrobe with Crocheted Accents, Embellishments, and Trims was everything I had expected it to be–it was just so Linda (“linda” by the way is Italian, Spanish and Portuguese for beautiful or pretty, which makes it even more appropriate). |
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First Impressions: The Look
The cover is great. It would make you think, “I have the perfect cardigan to embellish just like the one on the cover!” The rest of the contents don’t disappoint, either. Beautiful project photos take up whole pages–certified eye candy for any crafter.
My only issue would be the book’s size. It’s not exactly a book that would fit in any purse. I prefer my books to be more portable for on-the-go crafting.
Writing Style
I’d have to say that this book is more for general crafters than crocheters. It’s for that trendy girl who wants to make her own accessories, and to add that touch of “me” to her outfits. A good third of the book is devoted to the basics of crochet, and the materials used for crafting. I like that the author really got into the nitty-gritty of how to choose the right materials for specific projects.
The instructions are clear, but I keep looking for the author’s “personal” touch. By “personal touch” I mean adding maybe a quick crochet experience or two. There’s a patch of humor here and there, but sometimes I find it difficult to keep on reading for lack of interest.
Crochet Instructions: How-To’s and Patterns
The book is divided into five parts: “Techniques and Materials” with all the basic instructions and how-to’s; “Fashion,” “Accessories,” and “Home” for the 20 crochet patterns; and “Stitch Dictionary” for trims, motifs, and stitch patterns. Under the first chapter, there are extensive instructions on getting started. The crochet basics section is pretty standard, but I think that’s okay, given the many other resources for that (Crochet Spot is the best resource, of course). All the patterns and stitches have complete instructions, and show both written and charted patterns. The project photos are all so very lovely–mostly featuring flowers, leaves, butterflies, and birds. I love that the author also gives alternatives on how to embellish and block projects.
Crochet Adorned Projects
The cover says that the book “Includes 20 Patterns and 100 Stitches” which was another reason why I got the book. I’m not exactly into adding embellishments and trims to my clothes, but I justified my purchase because of the said statement. This is my biggest disappointment in the book–there are indeed 20 crochet patterns, but 13 of them are embellishments for clothes, accessories and home items. Plus, the additional stitches in the dictionary are made up of 25 trims and embellishments, 7 flowers, 9 motifs, and 28 stitches–not exactly the 100 stitches I had expected.
The Long and Short of It
I think Crochet Adorned by Linda Permann is the perfect gift for that girly-girl who has always wanted to make her own accessories, and embellish her wardrobe. Any crocheter would also benefit from adding this to their arsenal of crochet books–the photos alone will inspire any crafter to crochet up something pretty. I also have this book to thank for introducing me to a whole new world in crochet: embellishments and trims.
Do you have a copy, or want to get one soon? What is your favorite part of the book, or your favorite pattern?
Feel free to look inside the book using Amazon’s “Look Inside” feature to learn more!
I have a copy of this book but the only pattern I have tried so far is a bird from the Bird Brooches pattern on page 85. It was easy to make and turned out well. There is a neat pattern for a butterfly (Butterfly Apron) which I am going to make and use as a doily.
Those brooches are cute too! I’ve made those, but used them as appliques rather than turn them into brooches. Good luck with the butterfly project, I bet that would make a unique doily.
I am always on the look out for ntm crochet books, thank-you for your honest review of this book. No I do not want a copy or would purchase it, the patterns are not my style and not something I or anyone I know would wear.
Thank you for your honest comment too, Linda. Ironically the author is your namesake! I do agree that the book appeals to a specific set of people.