The Book Review

Designer Crochet Accessories • Melissa Leapman
Creative Publishing International, £12.99 • US terminology

Inspired by the massive amount of crochet making its way onto catwalks and designer collections across the globe, Melissa Leapman (www.facebook.com/melissa.leapman.designs) has put together this set of 25 on-trend projects, designed to be fun to stitch and easy to wear.
The collection ranges from cosy cowls and hats to lacy scarves and shawls, practical totes and handbags and even some stylish crocheted jewellery, including a delicate ring worked in a fine mercerised cotton on a 1.65mm hook. (At the opposite end of the scale is the striking Prepster scarf, worked in roving wool on an 11.5mm hook!)

Techniques range from cables to colourwork to lace, and each design includes both written instructions and a clear chart, helping you to visualise how the stitches work together as you hook. There’s also a guide to reading the charts plus an illustrated introduction to the basic stitches. Our favourite designs include the Fair Isle-style Collafirth hat, the lacy Harmonia mitts, worked in a pastel self-striping yarn, and the retro style Haymarket bias scarf, perfect for pulling close on a cold December night. With designs ranging from simple beginner projects to elaborate cable designs, this would make a great Christmas gift for any crocheter.