Crochetterie

Molla Mills • Jacqui Small LLP, £20, published 18 August • UK terminology

Most of the crochet books we review seem generally aimed at women – and since the majority of crocheters are women, this isn’t very surprising. But that doesn’t mean that there aren’t plenty of men out there hooked on yarn, and many more who would give it a try if there were designs that appealed to them. Finnish designer Molla Mills (www.mollamills.com) has set out to answer that call in her latest book, a collection of patterns specifically for men. (We think it’s okay if women love them too!)
The designs here are split into four collections: Home (accessories such as cushions and rugs), Clothes (a striped jumper, slippers and a hat), Travels (useful projects including bags and a passport holder) and Equipment (sturdy straps, fun bunting, a travel mirror and more). All the designs are beautifully photographed, making this a great book for browsing through for inspiration.
The patterns reflect Molla’s Scandinavian aesthetic and many use tapestry crochet for colourwork designs that range from geometric patterns to cheeky slogans. As the work is translated, the patterns are sometimes worded slightly awkwardly and may need a bit of perseverance, but many include step images and all are definitely worth any extra effort required.
This is a gorgeous collection, perfect both for men who crochet and women who crochet for them (though many of the designs are unisex, of course). There’s even a set of instructions for whittling your own crochet hook from a juniper branch!