Hooked on Crochet: 20 Sassy Projects

Eschewing the afghan and doily patterns often found in crocheting books, this colorful guide offers an assortment of trendier alternatives handpicked to appeal to women in their 20s and 30s. Those new to crocheting should have no trouble mastering the first pattern (a cell phone case made with a luxurious yet hard-to-find suede yarn), and the Striped Skinny Scarf and Basic Scarf with fringe will be a breeze for beginners. The Bamboo Handle Purse and Posh Frock, on the other hand, require some sewing savvy, and the directions on how to create decorative posies and flower pins look easier than they really are. Jensen, a veteran craft and needlepoint designer, describes the basics of yarn weight, hook size and gauge in an easy-to-follow manner, and the accompanying illustrations elucidate details that are difficult to explain (such as hand and hook positioning). While her prose is not as exuberant or as playful as one would expect from a guide touting its projects as""sassy,""""bold"" and""hip,"" the book's creative patterns and vibrant photographs more than compensate. Color photos throughout.