A note from the team at Schepjes yarn!
We have just received Granny Square Fashion, and I couldn't wait to tell you how absolutely stunning we find it! The projects are incredibly fun and colourful, and the photography is simply breath-taking!
The designs look so enjoyable and seem quite manageable, which makes them even more appealing. I'm so impressed that I'm considering getting a copy for myself. The book is a real treat for anyone who loves crochet.
Additionally, we are thrilled to have sponsored the yarn for this wonderful project. Thank you for collaborating with us; seeing our yarn showcased in such a beautiful book is truly rewarding.
Slipknot
This book has been inspired by the recent resurgence in using the crocheted granny square - often confined to blankets and shawls in the past - to make wearable garments. In the introduction Cassie Ward says that 'her designs are inspired by (her) love of fashion and a desire to be different'.
The book is well laid out, with colourful photographs of the 15 projects covering ten actual garments: two cardigans, two jumpers, a maxi waistcoat, a dress, a tank top, a T-shirt, a cowl and a wrap. There are patterns for five accessories: two bags, a hat, a headscarf and a headband. Cotton or cotton/acrylic blend yarns are used for all but three of the items; the cowl and the two jumpers are worked in a merino wool/acrylic blend.
Five styles of granny square are illustrated at the beginning of the book, with charts. These are called the Classic, the Turned, the Half, the Diagonal and the Quarter granny square. The patterns are all written out using English terminology referencing the appropriate type of granny square. Schematics are provided for techniques such as the circular crown and brim of the hat.
Chapter 3 towards the end of the book 'will walk you through the essentials of crocheting' as well as the basic and special stitches. The chapter gives advice on colourwork, joining, blocking, reading patterns and charts. There are two pages relating specifically to crocheting clothes.
This book will be useful to any crocheter who wishes to extend their use of the granny square to create fashion-led, colourful garments.
Craft Focus
This book contains essential techniques and patterns for 15 fashion-focused granny square garments and accessories, including cardigans, sweaters, waistcoats, and bags.
Readers learn different ways to join the squares and finish their eye catching garments.
Organised into two parts, the book begins with the beautiful designs and then showcases different joining and finishing methods. Cassie Ward is the founder of The Missing Yarn, an online crochet garment retailer.
We say: Each design and technique is clearly demonstrated with photography and illustrations. Nostalgic, yes. Making a comeback, totally!
Issue 166
In her new book, Cassie reveals her latest collection of fashion-led designs, with the first section devoted to teaching you how to master a classic granny square, followed by variations including the turned, half, diagonal and quarter grannies, all with charts provided to guide you.
Whether you simply love the retro style of granny fashion or were first inspired to take up a hook by the Harry Styles cardigan, this beautifully styled and photographed collection of vibrant projects will inject colour and joy into your must-make list this spring.
Issue 317
Learn basic techniques and patterns for making a granny square, to be repeated and used in 15 chic garment and accessories. There are sweaters and cardigans, a tank top, vests, bags, T-shirts, dresses and shawls. The book is perfect for beginners.
