What we've been reading...

35 Crocheted Bags
Emma FriedlanderCollins • CICO Books, £12.99 • UK terminology

➻ Inspired by designer Emma’s wish “to carry things with me that I genuinely love,” this collection of crocheted bags ensures you’ll always have the perfect holdall for every outfit and occasion. Designs range from chunky shoppers and rucksacks to colourwork totes and satchels, plus delicate handbags and a collection of accessories such as purses and phone cases. The patterns use a great selection of techniques including textured stitches and some fabulous colourwork.

Baby Shoes To Crochet
Lucia Förthmann • Search Press, £7.99 • US/UK terminology

➻ There’s something particularly adorable about baby projects, the faster hooking time allowing for gorgeous finishing touches and miniature details. This collection of 16 sweet designs for babies is a must-buy if you – or someone you know – is expecting a little one, giving you full licence to make everything from tiny pink ballerina pumps to cowboy boots. Each design is sized for 0–3, 3–6 and 6–9 months.

Continuous Crochet
Kristin Omdahl • Interweave, £16.99 • US terminology

➻ If you’re not a fan of seaming then this is the book for you, as every project is designed to be hooked with a minimum of finishing. From hats and cowls worked in the round to textured shawls and wraps there’s a huge range of accessories, plus several garments using join-as-you-go techniques and spiralled designs. Patterns use written instructions and clear charts for ease of following. Our favourites are the sweet African Violets capelet and stunning Geisha Fan shrug, worked in two halves from a central foundation chain.