New to crochet? This ‘Kids’ book will hook you

Do you or a child you know want to get hooked on crochet?

“Kids Crochet” by Kelli Ronci aims to do just that – her book is filled with projects for kids of all ages.

The book begins the learning process by presenting the basics of choosing yarns and assembling the tools of the crochet trade. Using easy-to-follow illustrations, the book encourages beginners to practice making chain loops with their fingers in order to get acquainted with the ins and outs of the motions of crochet. Even this simple exercise results in useful things such as shoelaces, friendship bracelets and ties for gift package.

From there, the book’s illustrations teach those new to crochet how to hold the yarn and hook correctly. A large hook and bulky yarn are suggested when learning the basic steps of crochet.

Then it’s on to mastering the chain stitch and the single crochet stitch, which are used for the projects featured in the book.

One of the simplest, and first, projects in the book is for a tool pouch, which could be dressed up with beads, buttons, sequins or other trims and used as a purse.

Another section of the book teaches the use of color and how to crochet with two strands of yarn at the same time to create tweed, stripe and checkered patterns. Projects include wristbands and shoulder bags.

The section on texture shows how to make the rib stitch. Once the rib stitch is mastered, the new crocheter can put it all together and make squares to create a patchwork poncho.

The projects in the first part of the book are based on squares and rectangles, but later, circular crochet is discussed and illustrated. Projects in this section include hats and pillows.

But the ultimate projects the book offers is a doll, a teddy bear and a hooded pullover sweater. The doll has a crocheted dress and the teddy bear sports a perky crocheted scarf. The pullover sweater is sized for children up to age 14 and instructions are given to help the crocheter figure out which size to make.

The book contains information about how to read crochet patterns, and how to care for crocheted items.

Although “Kids Crochet” is written for children in the 8-14 age group, beginners of any age will find the book a straightforward and user-friendly resource for learning how to crochet. Even though the patterns are simple and basic enough for beginners, they also will appeal to the experienced crocheter who may opt to use novelty or luxury yarns to make the project more personal.

In the process of learning to crochet, one learns from the book how to sew pieces of a project together, how to sew on a button, how to make fringe and how to make tassels.

The 128-page book is nicely illustrated with drawings and photographs of children modeling items crocheted from the patterns in the book. The book would make a fine addition to personal, school and public libraries.

Millions of Americans already know how to knit or crochet and that number is expected to grow, according to a Craft Yarn Council survey – all the more reason to jump right in there and discover the pleasures of crochet.

Call or visit local bookstores to find out how to obtain “Kids Crochet.”

Snippets

. A reader called to say that she and her daughter have found Megan E. Bryant’s book, “Knit Now: Pretty Simple Stuff,” a very useful book for learning to knit and for inspiring creative ideas.

. Want a good laugh? Visit www.homestead.com/anacleta/knittinghumor.html to find cartoons about knitting.

Ardeana Hamlin may be reached at 990-8153, or e-mail ahamlin@bangordailynews.net.