How are my crafters? I hope the holidays have left you with some time to crochet! I have been playing with Tunisian crochet which, as you might know, is done with special hooks that allow you to leave stitches on the hooks similar to knitting but not quite as it is still done on one hook. It does however create a fabric that is similar to knitting which is more dense and fabulous for clothes. Now that said, I was not very good at it and didn’t really know how to shape very nicely in this style. Enter my latest book from Leisure Arts, Short Row Tunisian Fashion. Short rows form wedges which are used to add height to piece at the beginning or end that will help with shaping. From what I gather there are several ways to do this and this book covers, in detail, two of the methods to accomplish this. What is really neat is they also offer videos that help supplement the text to make it crystal clear.
Once you study the techniques, you will find some really special patterns here to help you perfect the skill. Included is a fun scarf and beret, a beanie, a lacy wrap, a feminine cardigan, and a romantic two-piece cape. The cardigan is top on my list. The patterns range from easy to intermediate which is great because I needed a few easy ones to get my fingers wet. Once you have mastered this great shaping technique, you can make your own awesome patterns in crochet that will have the density of a knit fabric. It is a win because while I can knit, I find crochet to be fast, easier and more flexible. Plus, I am way better at picking it up than I was at knitting. I may need more Leisure Arts knitting books! Have you ever tried Tunisian crochet? What did you make?
Take some time to browse Leisure Arts' great selection and make sure you also connect with Leisure Arts on Facebook and Twitter so that you never miss a special or new pattern! Also, if you sign up for their knitting or crochet newsletters, you get a free pattern on Fridays!Disclosure: I may receive products in exchange for an honest review. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I personally believe will be good for my reader
Those are some nice designs. I like the scarf.
ReplyDeleteI have never even heard of Tunisian crochet, but I have to say it looks really interesting. I would think it would be great for sweaters.
ReplyDeleteVery pretty style ot crochet in. I like the design and think the sweater looks so pretty. I hope that you can do this style. It sure is pretty.
ReplyDeleteI love the red coat. Looks very stylish
ReplyDeleteI've always wanted to be able to make my own clothes. I think that is a skill that is important. Unless I can wear crochet squares as clothes then so far I'm out of luck, lol. I've never heard of Tunisian crochet before. Love the scarf shown above!
ReplyDeleteI want to learn how to crochet. I need to find a hobby and have been considering on learning how to.
ReplyDeleteI love and know how to crochet but these are wonderful and I am not sure if I at the level needed to make them but I would love to try it.
ReplyDeleteSarah Oswald
I love the blue sweater/tunic in the picture. I would love to learn how to crochet if I get back most of the use of my hands.
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