Granny Squares Now: Dozens of Fresh Takes on a Crochet Classic

Granny Squares Now: Dozens of Fresh Takes on a Crochet Classic
By Susan Cottrell
Gifted by Sterling Publishing
www.sterlingpub.com
Reviewed by Molly Fletcher, Editor for AllFreeCrochetAfghanPatterns.com

Granny squares are the cornerstone of many crochet projects. However, like most craft staples, they tend to get boring after awhile. Author Susan Cottrell has given the granny square new life with her book, Granny Squares Now: Dozens of Fresh Takes on a Crochet Classic.

Like all good crafters, Cottrell takes the time to explain the basics. The first pages of the book are devoted to a detailed, illustrated guide to crochet terms and abbreviations. Each stitch is accompanied by an illustration, and this glossary goes far beyond standard stitches and includes some more advanced techniques like the lover's loop stitch and the crab stitch.

If you were laboring under the assumption that all granny squares look the same, just glance at the cover of Granny Squares Now. Cottrell has designed crochet projects such as the spiral round, string floral round, fancy diamond round, and patchwork pocket to prove that "square" is a relative term.

The inspiration doesn't stop there. Some of the projects in Granny Squares Now are outside the box in terms of materials as well. Crocheters don't have to stick to yarn; suede, beads, and even seashells can make memorable embellishments, accessories, and wearables.

Granny Squares Now devotes an entire section to crochet embellishments. In addition to ever-popular flower and butterfly motifs, there is a selection of trefoil embellishments, silk ribbon accents, and more. One particularly cute project is a playful bright balloons pattern. It's pictured on a jumper, proving that these patterns can be used to make every member of your family look fabulous.

This book is full of wearable crafts, too. From shawls and scarves to t-shirts and shrugs, Granny Squares Now has you and your family covered. There are plenty of unexpected crochet projects in this collection too, including slippers, a poncho, and a skirt.