Blueprint Crochet - Modern Designs For The Visual Crocheter

Blueprint Crochet - I couldn't wait to get my hands on this book after meeting the author Robyn Chachula. Such a lovely person and a truly prolific designer.

This amazing book contains 18 fresh new designs which are stunning to look at yet fairly easily made.

Robyn's mantra is that "granny squares don't have to be boring" and she obviously displays that here. Many of these patterns are constructed from shaped motifs which are made in the granny square way - working around in a circle. But that's about where the relationship to granny squares ends as these Blueprint Crochet designs are far from frumpy.

Hot off the catwalks, these crochet garments and accessories are bang up to date - yes, even the teenage nieces would go for these, really.

There is a trade off though...some patterns have very little actual writing to them, much of the actual stitch workings are shown as charts so you really need to learn to read charts to get all of the instructions.

Saying that, I really enjoyed making the Maggie Wrap Top. My only problems is, though the motifs were really easy to do and they were joined 'as you go' (which is very nice), I still have all of the ends to finish off. It's been sitting there for quite some time now and I must get the ends finished so I can actually wear it.

The instructions were great - easy to follow reading the charts, it's just my own aversion to finishing off ends that has me stuck in the WIP stage.

I must say, I actually really like the charts in Blueprint Crochet better than screeds of writing. I find them easy to follow and don't mind at all the occasional counting of symbols to check where I am.

The Blueprint Crochet patterns are all named for family members and friends and are as follows...

• Heather Earrings and Necklace - a snowflake style motif made into jewelry.
• Nicki Tote - A bright hobo style bag worked in small circular motifs.
• Julie Cuff - A pretty filigree style wristband/cuff bracelet.
• Madison Scarf - A cute scarf made from various size motifs.
• Isabella Wrap - A 3/4 circle wrap that ties behind you - all in one, very clever construction.
• Maureen Tunic - A wide open neckline, contrast trim tunic with flare sleeves - looks very comfy.
• Nora Belt - Squared chain style hip belt.
• Sheryl Shawl - Made from partial circle motifs.
• Katie Bolero - Cap sleeve crop bolero with Gothic style motifs.
• Megan Sweater - Long line, long sleeved open front cardigan with tie made from very pretty square motifs. A stunner! On right side of front cover
• Maggie Wrap Top - Cropped bodice long sleeve crossover cardigan in very cute motifs - need I say more - this one I made!
• Paige Sweetheart Top - Deep V front short sleeve cardigan made with a combination of motifs.
• Raeanne Shawl Sweater - I LOVE THIS ONE! Sleeveless top with huge shawl collar which crosses over at the hip band. Wear the collar pinned high or open low for two great looks - made from motifs but really doesn't look like it!On left side of front cover
• Sarah Bee Dress - Summer sun dress - top down in one piece.
• Rachel Swing Jacket - Top down, boxy, elbow length sleeve double breat style jacket.
• Rebecca Vest - Scoop neck eyelet vest.
• Christin Crop - Cap sleeve cropped fitted top.
• Courtney Corset Top - Deep rib, sweetheart neckline, short gather top sleeves top. Very pretty. On center of front cover

A great collection of very usable patterns - there are several more I'd love to make for me. I just know you'd love them too.

Give the charts a chance - you may just find them easier than reading line by line.

A 'must have' for any serious crochet clothing lover! Buy it now!

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