Books

Cute & Easy Crocheted Cosies by Nicki Trench

CICO Books, £12.99 • UK terminology

Photography by Gavin Kingcome © CICO Books

A new pattern collection from prolific designer Nicki Trench is always a treat, and this book of 35 “simply stylish” cosy designs is no exception. Nicki has delighted in making cosies not just for teapots or hot water bottles, but also for anything in the
home that might need protection – gadgets, glasses, jars and more.
The designs use a huge range of crochet techniques, so though most of the projects here will be suitable for adventurous beginners, they’d also work well as a crash course in most of the favourite stitch patterns – there are granny motifs, chevrons, bobbles, lace and a variety of textured stitches perfect for protecting your possessions. All the patterns feature Nicki’s trademark colourful aesthetic, with perfectly complementary stripes, colour schemes and finishing touches, from pretty flower accents to cute pom-poms. With so much to choose from it’s hard to pick a favourite, but we particularly love the striped passport holder, in a pretty textured stitch and reminiscent of Cornish blue tablewares, the shell stitch hot water bottle cosy and the patchwork laptop cover, which would make an ideal stashbuster.

Crochet Jewelry by Brett Bara
Sterling Innovation, £13.63 from www.thegmcgroup.com • US terminology

If you’ve wanted to give crocheted jewellery a go but weren’t sure where to
begin, this fun book-in-a-box kit could be for you! The kit comes with three colours of crochet thread (one metallic), 2mm and 2.5mm hooks plus a yarn needle, and a book with five pretty jewellery designs to get you started. There’s a cute bobble necklace, colourful cuff bracelet, lacy ring, chevron necklace design and our favourite, “diamond” earrings! All the designs have
instructions and photographs to guide you.

Magical Amigurumi Toys by Mari-Liis Lille
Amigurumipatterns.net, £12.99 • US terminology

We’re always happy to see a new release from Amigurumipatterns.net, and this latest collection of loveable children’s toys is no exception. The book contains detailed step-by-step instructions for all the stitches and techniques you’ll need, plus 15 adorable toy patterns perfect for that special boy or girl. From a ballerina mouse to the incredibly huggable Tummy Teddy, each design has that “something special” which makes you want to pick up the hook straight away and will have your little ones impatient for the finished product!

Little Crochet Projects
GMC, £5.99 • UK terminology

Once you’ve been crocheting a while, you’re sure to have a collection of leftover balls of yarn, too much to throw away but not enough for a new project. This pretty collection of designs is just what you’re looking for – small and simple projects, perfect for hooking on the move and ideal for using up those bits and pieces taking over your crafting space. From stylish striped belts to a delicate spring garland, this is a great-value set of desirable designs, with full-colour step-by-steps for many techniques.