When it comes to crochet, keep it simple

SIMPLE CROCHET, by Erika Knight, Clarkson Potter Publishers, New York, 2003, 129 pages, paperback, $19.95.

Erika Knight has a simple idea – create a series of books that present knitting and crochet patterns in a way that is easy and accessible. Her third book, “Simple Crochet,” continues the theme.

“I believe in making things simple and in making simple things,” Knight says in the book’s introduction. Crocheting, she says, is simpler than knitting because it requires only one hook and one ball of yarn. Her goal is to make crochet “modern and interesting.”

“Simple Crochet” concentrates, she says, “on a few basic stitches and some very different types of yarn.” The projects are designed to be completed in only a few evenings. They include pillows, throws, containers and – my favorite – Turkish slippers.

Pillow patterns include a new take on the old ripple pattern by varying the width of the color stripes and using Rowan cotton glace yarn in terra cotta, rose pink, burgundy lurex and off-white. This gives the design a lively sense of motion instead of the static mood of stripes all the same width. Other pillow designs in the book call for leather thonging or metallic yarn, with an emphasis on texture.

Knight also gives a modern twist to the perennial granny square pattern by designing it in off-white, dark taupe, light beige and black – colors often favored by those who shop at The Gap or Old Navy stores.

In addition to the pattern for each project, Knight gives information on techniques used, tips on gauge, joining new colors, joining squares together and inspiration for those who want to experiment with different colors or alter the size of the finished piece.

Although the projects in “Simple Crochet” are, indeed, simple, this really isn’t a book for a beginner unless the crocheter has already mastered single- and double-crochet stitches. The book does, however, contain plenty of useful information, illustrations and step-by-step instructions. Experienced crocheters will find plenty of inspiration in Knight’s choice of colors and yarns.

The book’s photographs by John Heseltine are a treat for the eye – gorgeous colors and plenty of close-ups revealing crochet details – so beguiling readers will want to run to the nearest yarn store to stock up on cotton yarns in elegant colors.

Erika Knight is also the author of “Simple Knits for Easy Living” and “Simple Knits for Cherished Babies.”

Ardeana Hamlin welcomes comments, suggestions and ideas. Call her at 990-8153, or e-mail ahamlin@bangordailynews.net.