Simple Crochet by Sara Sinaguglia

Portable, pretty and quick to learn - crochet is back in vogue and Sara Sinaguglia is one of its most talented advocates. Taking her inspiration and palette from her country cottage home and the glorious Dorset landscape that surrounds it, Sara has created 35 easy-to-make crochet projects for in and around the home. The book begins with step-by-step photographs demonstrating how easy it is to teach yourself to crochet. From cushions, coasters and bags to toys, scarves and her now famous apple cosies, bring a little of Sara's stylish vintage vibe into your crafting life. Gorgeous photography by top lifestyle photographer Yuki Sugiura captures the sheer pleasure of turning a few balls of richly coloured yarn into something individual. Never has crochet looked so beautiful!

I was taught to crochet by my mum over twenty years ago and every now and again I find a pattern or project that I just have to find out my hook and have a go at. This book may have just lit that fire and given inspiration and enthusiasm to pick it up again.

The book starts with a really comprehensive and well laid out chapter entitled crochet basics. There are both written and photographic instructions for how to get started crocheting. The instructions are very easy to follow and start from from step one of making a slip knot and also go through the stitches and abbreviations used in most patterns. There are instructions on how to join new yarn, before going on to more advanced techniques of Broomstick Crochet, crocheting with beads, Tunisian crochet and crochet into fabric.The instructions are really easy to digest and they are a great plus point to this book.

The book then has lots of projects which are divided into sections entitled: Kitchen, Living Room, Bedroom, Bathroom, Children's Room and Out and About. There are 4-8 patterns in each section, and the projects all have beautifully photographed end products which show the project at its best. Many of the projects include crochet as a part of the finished project, with a large part of project needing extra materials and skills but they are beautiful and I would be encouraged to try new finishing ideas to achieve the finished item as shown in the book. However, some of the projects are a little 'out of this world', I have never needed to have an apple cosy for my fruit bowl or frilly trims on knichers and I don't think this will be in my must crochet list. I do however love the Victorian Linen centre piece and I will definitely be trying this project soon.

In summary, this is a lovely book to give as a gift to any crochet lover or for someone who would like to give crochet a try - all they need is a selection of crochet hooks in different sizes and some yarn. It is a great idea for a hobby to keep you occupied over the winter evenings.

I received this book through the Amazon Vine Programme.