After reading this book you’ll be able to create magnificent crochet pieces to enjoy for years to come.  So, what will you find in the “Official Guide to Crochet”?

• The history of crochet is fascinating! Who knew it dated back so far?

Exactly how far back does is date? Find out the history of crochet and its many uses-from bookmarks to blankets-on pages 7-11.

• What size hook, what kind of yarn, where can these things be purchased?

Using the right crochet equipment is very important. Pages 12-24 outline everything you’ll need to get started and where you can find these supplies.

• The purpose of this book is to teach you how to crochet and pages 24-27 get you started.

You’ll learn how to hold the hook and yarn and how to form a chain of stitches. You’ll be crocheting in minutes!

• To get started you will learn how to single crochet.

Pages 27-29 give you the fundamentals of creating a quick, solid fabric and the opportunity to perfect your stitches through single crochet.

• Some projects will require changing the color of your yarn.

Page 29 details this process so you can create colorful pieces of crochet.

• There are different ways to stitch and pages 30-32 give written instructions and illustrations for slip stitch, half double crochet, double crochet, and treble crochet.

You’ll be an expert in no time after reading this book!

• Page 33 begins a section on crochet tips from gauge to how to create the perfect circle.

If you’re a “lefty”, your in luck because there is info on left-handed crochet in here too!

• In Crocheting you’ll need to start a new ball or skein of yarn and tie off loose ends.

Pages 35 and 36 show you exactly how to do this. You’ll learn how to do this without showing knots on page 37.

• Having just the right tension is important in order to keep your crochet uniform.

On pages 37-40 you’ll learn how to work tightly or loosely and how to move the yarn through your fingers all while keeping your edges straight. You’ll also learn how to increase or decrease your stitches as you go.

• Changing yarn color takes practice, but you’ll learn even more about doing this on page 41.

• Being able to tell right from wrong is important when crocheting.

Page 43 shows you how to know the right and wrong side of your crochet piece.

• Sometimes you might have difficulty pulling your hook through your loops or with puckering in your foundation row.

These issues as well as what to do with extra stitches are discussed on page 44.

• If you already know how to crochet but are having trouble with missing stitches or uneven edges, page 46 of this guide will help you solve your problem and get you back on track.

• When you are ready to take on a more difficult pattern you will be able to do it with confidence after reading the section on working front, back or both and working around the post.

You’ll also benefit from pages 47-49 on turning corners, joining seams, and joining squares. You’ll be crocheting afgans in no time!

• Growing up did you ever play with those little round doilies your grandmother had lying around? Well, now you can make your own!

You’ll learn how to crochet in the round and to create the perfect circle on pages 52-54. Make Grandma proud!

• With the section on crochet tips concluded, you’re ready to start a project.

Page 54 begins a discussion on choosing the right first project and how to complete it. It’s just starting to get good!

• There are many different stitches to choose from in crochet. The stitch guide on pages 59-69 will help you determine which stitch you want to use.

On these pages you’ll find details about popcorn, cluster, shell, star, afghan, bobbie, picot, arabesque, roll or bullion, daisy, eyelet, and fan. With this guide you will be able to not only know the name of each stitch but how to do them as well.

• Crochet can be highly decorative and learning how to make your crochet more interesting is outlined on pages 69-83.

After reading these sections you’ll be able to identify and create Irish loop lace, the Granny square, Rag crochet, Bead crochet, Tunisian crochet, and Filet crochet. You’ll be able to use what you learn to create unique crochet pieces.

• As with any project, you must have a pattern to crochet.

Pages 88-99 tell you all you need to know about patterns!

• Where to find patterns and how to read them is outlined, as well as converting patterns between the US, UK and Australia.

• You’ll be able to adjust the size of a pattern and adapt it for different hook and thread sizes.

•  Want to make golf club covers for your spouse or yourself?

Read page 97 to learn how to create your own patterns and continue to page 98 for more tips on following patterns. Again, everything you need to know about patterns is right here in this book!

• If following a pattern isn’t your cup of tea, then free form crochet is for you!

On page 99, you’ll learn all about creating your own unique, one-of-a-kind pieces by using free form crochet. You will be able to truly express yourself without the stress of following a pattern.