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Book Review: Modern Tapestry Crochet by Alessandra Hayden


Landscape Cowl on Cover

This book just goes to show that "there are always 2 ways to skin a cat"! I've done a significant amount of tapestry crochet work crochet during my "crochet life," and have also taken classes from the experts at Crochet Guild conferences. Alessandra has solved some quandaries for me that I have had about the technique.

Provisions Tote

Full of good information about tapestry crochet, beautiful photography and twenty, mostly fashion projects, that explore the basics of the technique, the reader will be inspired and encouraged to do more complicated projects after trying some of these patterns. Aptly named, every project inside is gorgeous and on-trend for the fashionista and the home!

Distant Mountains Throw

To avoid the usual bulkiness of tapestry crochet, which is not desirable in clothing, the author makes a point of only including 2 colors in each row of her fashion motifs. Her design rows line up perfectly with her unique suggestion of stitching in the black loop only. Alessandra suggests crocheting only on the right side of the work, clipping the tails and starting a new thread with each row.

For those who detest weaving in tails, be patient as you learn this technique; it is well worth it until you get the hang of dealing with the multiple colors of tapestry crochet! Alessandra puts you on the right path toward applying best practices for creating seamless patterned crochet with her easy-to-follow instructions.

Point A Slouch

More about Alessandra Hayden can be found at her website. In 2008, she began  path toward becoming a professional crocheter by using her hobby as her therapy after suffering a personal loss. Counting stitches kept her mind busy and using bright, colorful yarn helped her feel happy. Can you relate to the joys of crochet in your life? Share with me here how crochet has gotten you through some tough situations.

Modern Tapestry Crochet retails for $22.99 and is available through Interweave Press.

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