Exploring Tunisian Crochet: All the Basics Plus Stitches and Techniques to Take Your Crochet to the Next Level

Designer Harrison debuts with an appealing primer on Tunisian crochet, which is distinguished by the use of long, hooked needles that, as in knitting, are used to hold “multiple active stitches... simultaneously.” Aimed at the true beginner, the introduction offers step-by-step photo illustrations of how to make stitches that use knitting’s terminology—including purl, knit, reverse, and full stitches—as well as such techniques as increasing and decreasing, switching between different yarns, crocheting in the round, and creating cables. Harrison provides patterns for 20 simple cowls, scarves, shawls, and other clothing articles. On the easier end of the spectrum, she shows how to make a “trailhead cowl” with a zig-zag design, and a striped “trekking shawl.” Harder projects include fingerless mittens, a beanie, and the delicate “sunset lace shawl,” which features a yellow center and pink outer edges. The projects are straightforward and the comprehensive directions (Harrison devotes several pages to how to read a crochet pattern) will be a boon to novices. Crocheters will enjoy familiarizing themselves with this distinctive spin on their craft. (Nov.)