Book Review: It Girl Crochet ~ 23 Must Have Accessories by Sharon Zientara

Tuesday, August 12, 2014

It Girl Crochet by Sharon Zientara

 I am a product of the sixties and I love crochet that expresses the individuality of the wearer. It Girl Crochet is all this and more! It offers truly unique designs in delightful colors that will set you apart from the rest. The twenty-three accessories included in the book are truly “must have.”

Sharon Zientara knows how to assemble a collection of designers who design fashionable crochet and at the same time keep the patterns simple enough so that they are fun to make. That’s a difficult feat to achieve! Her custom collection of exciting accessories contributed by 15 top-name designers like Shelly Allaho, Brenda K B Anderson, Robyn Chachula and Kathy Merrick will inspire crocheters who want to make easy-to-finish pieces that add pizzazz to their ensembles.

In the Introduction, Zientara explains that she had a vision for a chic crochet collection. She wanted to reference some of her favorite eras of fashion and at the same time create a timeless collection of designs. She says that she is “grateful for the support she received from the folks at Interweave and for the yarn companies that provided all the amazing fibers that elevated each and every project.” She currently manages Makers Mercantile in Seattle for Skacel.

Sharon believes that when an element of fashion from the past comes back around again and again, it is because it can transcend time and trends. She has divided the book into 3 sections: Crochet Nouveau; It’s a Mod, Mod World; and A Brave New Boho. The designers have created something new, beautiful and exciting as they showcase the best from the pasts of both crochet and fashion.

Crochet Nouveau is the perfect marriage of the art nouveau period of art and design which consisted of rich colors lush fabrics and bold and intricate patterns and modern crochet techniques.

Chrysanthemum Cape by Kathy Merrick

In the chapter entitled It's a Mod, Mod World, Sharon says, "the outrageous fashions of the 'Swinging Sixtie' are translated to crochet accessories that can make even a plain t-shirt and jeans seem fabulous!"

Petula Purse by Robyn Chachula

A Brave New Boho, the final chapter, takes its inspiration from Bohemian sensibilities. For the “free spirits” among us, natural fibers in earthy colors make wearing clothes enjoyable without the feeling that your spirit is being weighed down.

Bon Vivant Stockings by Brenda K. B. Anderson

Whether you lived through or understand the fashion eras featured in this book, you will find much inspiration within. Let loose of your inhibitions and try at least one pattern. A daring dash of color or the daringly different styles will have you coming back for more. Be sure to read Sharon’s Pattern Inspiration Sidebars that explain the historical influence that led to the designs.

It Girl Crochet is published by Interweave, a division of F & W (2014) and retails for $22.99. You can win your own free copy of It Girl Crochet by adding your email to "follow" my blog AND by sending me an email to let me know you have done so.