Creative crochet projects 12 playful projects for beginners and beyond

Crocheting should be fun, writes Pokorny, creator of Crochetverse.com, in this whimsical debut. She offers 12 projects of varying difficulty, each of which emphasizes a different aspect of crocheting to help build skills. Pokorny begins by explaining basics such as yarn weights and fiber content, and offers a size chart of different crochet hooks. She also explains gauge (a system of measuring the number of stitches and rows in each piece of crochet that allows crafters to compare their tension with that of the person who designed the pattern) and lays out how to fill a basic tool kit. Beginner projects include scarves that that employ finger crochet, while more involved accessories include a "Squiggles McGee Hat" that uses tube construction, and the "Asymmetric Owl Wrap," complete with an Owl-head hood, which calls for special stitches. Handmade toys include a scarf that folds into a hamburger toy, and a sliceable watermelon that makes use of the half double crochet spike. This lighthearted guide is perfect for crafters looking to infuse a bit of playfulness into their crocheting. (Feb.)