I do not often do reviews. This has been a personal issue for me, as I don’t want to feel like I am just “hocking” items and adding an endorsement to everything in the hopes of gaining more followers or the like. I want to actually mean what I say and have those that read my work realize that I am taking caution in sharing my views. I know I could share negative thoughts in a review, but really I would prefer if I couldn’t say something nice, that I not say anything at all. So I am selective.
When I was asked if I would be interested in reviewing the first book written by Tamara Kelly, aka Mooglyblog.com, I was flattered, but a bit apprehensive. I consider Tamara a friend, so it doubly feels like I cannot say anything negative, especially about her first book. Fortunately, after reading through it I can easily stay to my “moral high ground” of endorsements, as the book is really very nice and well done.
The book, Quick Crochet for Home, honestly would not have been the first book I would have considered for my bookshelf. This is because I have done so many home décor projects over the years that I thought I couldn’t find any that would inspire me anymore, I was wrong. Tamara applies some techniques in ways that I had not considered before and helped me to look at home décor with fresh eyes.
When checking out the Around the Table Trivet I was surprised that there was no cording listed in the materials, as looking at the photo images it appeared that the rounds were well padded, then I noticed that there was not spiral effect of the rounds. The genius of the pattern has one round worked over the adjacent round! So there is not obvious join, and it creates its own padding…genius! It is one of those, why didn’t I think of that moments.
Then her Chevron Cuddles Blanket takes the challenge of the increase and decrease stitches out of the famous crochet design of zig zags, and worked the design side to side carrying different colors instead of working each color as a separate row. This has some definite benefits, such as being easier of newer crocheters, and allowing you to really envision how the colors come together well before you have finished the project. You only have to know how to double crochet, and change colors…it is that simple, yet looks much more challenging.
I also found that the book was well presented, layout well, offered well written patterns and charts. Another bonus, it has photography that actually helped you understand the project, not just look really pretty.
I found inspiration in several of the other designs as well, but I am pleasantly surprised at how much I enjoyed going through this book. There is a little something for everyone, there are patterns that you will easily work over and over again, as well as others that might only wait for the perfect moment. Tamara shares several different original ideas in her approach to her designs, and I am sure that you will find something that you will create.
As an added bonus, I have the opportunity to GIVE AWAY a FREE copy of Quick Crochet for the Home by Tamara Kelly, to one lucky reader! Simply leave a comment telling me what your favorite item is to crochet…whether it be home décor or something else, by midnight Friday, September 1, 2017. The following day one comment will be selected at random to choose the winner.
I really enjoy crocheting USEFUL items. I started like most people my age with afghans and fisherman net ponchos. Recently I’ve expanded to shawls, which are works of art as well as useful! The modern look of household crochet patterns is a breath of fresh air.
I crochet afghans I’m an oh crochet or from way back
I love to crochet
I am fascinated by crochet rugs. I wish I had more floor space to make all the ones that have fascinated me!
Congratulations! You have won a copy of Quick Crochet for the Home!
My favorite thing to crochet is hats and scarves.
My 12 year old Daughter would love this! She loves to crochet blankets and stuffies.
I love to crochet unique afghans. I like ones that test my skills and keep me engaged as I use crochet as a way to distract from chronic pain. I also love household items for when my attention span is not quite there to stick with a big project.
Dishcloths , l crochet them while at the laundromat .
I love making afghans and hats! I am really interested in trying a rug!
I like making anything that will get a big smile. A trivet to match a bride’s dinnerware pattern, a hat to match my grandaughter’s new jacket, a Minion hat for my grandson. I get a double bonus–doing something I love and the be rewarded with a smile and hug.
I have crocheted many different items over the years. Some useful, some, not so much. Have given many afghans for wedding gifts. Have done some requests from friends. Even heard today from one saying that she gets lots of compliments on her barefoot sandals. It makes me happy when others wear my work and share the compliments with me As long as it brings a smile to someone’s face, I’ll crochet whatever they wish. Thanks for the giveaway, looks like some wonderful patterns from one of my favorite designers.
My mother in law taught me to crochet back in the 50’s after I run my hand through the A/C belt on a VW. As a result I have full use of the hand. I never stopped crocheting, and have made quite a few useful gifts for friends & family. My wife is quick to tell friends “my husband crocheted that” . I enjoy it and find it relaxing.
I enjoy crocheting baby apparel and accessories; everything is just so darn cute! Right now I am currently working on a blanket for my sister-in-law’s wedding gift, but I hope to start on some more projects for my home once that is finished.
I enjoy crocheting afghans as gifts. I have a few pillow patterns I would like to try as well, but haven’t tried them yet. Thanks for the opportunity to win.
I love making little stuffed animals, but lately I’ve been all over shawls! Going to be nice and cozy this fall and winter!
My favorite crochet items are cowls and scarfs, the softer and cuddly yarn kind. Living in a colder climate for a good chunk of the year, they are a functional accessory.
I’m learning how to crochet again, so I want to make things for my two granddaughters, one just turned 5 and the new one will be here in November! Thank you!
I taught myself to crochet using books, and have brushed up my skills using the internet. In the past, I crocheted lots of scarves. I have recently been learning new stitches by following CALs and making afghans and baby blankets. I’m looking for ideas for other useful projects for myself and to give as gifts. Your book looks fantastic!