Donna Kooler's Encyclopedia of Crochet (Leisure Arts #15906) (Donna Kooler's Series) [Perfect Paperback]

Donna Kooler (Author)

Book Description

Series: Donna Kooler's Series | Publication Date: 2002

Noted expert Donna Kooler has provided a general introduction to the art of crochet, from historical information to photos, diagrams, and detailed instructions for hundreds of stitches and stitch patterns. This complete reference volume also features more than 20 projects, from clothing to home accessories, by America's top crochet designers.

Editorial Reviews

From Library Journal

Produced by the Kooler Design Studio, this authoritative encyclopedia of crochet credits a number of well-known designers and writers in the field for its contents, including Nancy Nehring, Gwen Blakley Kinsler, Melissa Leapman, Ann E. Smith, and Kathleen Power Johnson. It includes a beautifully illustrated and footnoted history of crochet, instruction in basic crochet techniques for both left- and right-handed learners, detailed information on the abbreviations and chart symbols used in crochet patterns, instruction in specialty and thread crochet techniques, a selection of illustrative projects for crocheters with beginner to advanced skills, and a crochet pattern gallery. The gorgeous, elaborately detailed "Philosopher's Coat" pattern for advanced crocheters shows the art of crochet at its best, while the information included on wire crochet and crocheting socks is difficult to find in other crochet handbooks. Essential for public library crochet collections.
Copyright 2002 Reed Business Information, Inc.

About the Author

Avner Laskin studied at the Cordon Bleu Academy in Paris, where he received the Grand Diplôme de Cuisine and Pâtisserie. He later specialized in breads at the Lenôtre School and was awarded the coveted Diplôme de Pain de Tradition et de Qualité in 1998. Laskin has restaurant experience in France and Germany and is the author of several cookbooks.

Product Details

• Perfect Paperback: 240 pages
• Publisher: Leisure Arts, Inc.; 1st edition (2002)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1574862820
• ISBN-13: 978-1574862829
• Product Dimensions: 11.1 x 8.7 x 0.8 inches
• Shipping Weight: 2.2 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.8 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (73 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #136,982 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)
  • #31 in Books > Education & Reference > Encyclopedias > Gardening
  • #74 in Books > Education & Reference > Encyclopedias > Art

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

128 of 130 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Every Crocheter Should Have This Book!!!, March 7, 2003

By 

V. Hannaford "vhanna262" (Charleston, SC) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Donna Kooler's Encyclopedia of Crochet (Leisure Arts #15906) (Donna Kooler's Series) (Perfect Paperback)

I've been crocheting for over 30 years and have tons of books and patterns, but this book is one of the best I've seen. It is useful for someone who has never picked up a hook to an advanced crocheter who wants to pick up a new technique, project, or pattern.

Fist of all, it covers the basics--the history of crochet, how to crochet, stitches, yarns, threads, and needles. It also covers different techniques--filet crochet, Tunisian crochet, changing colors, wire crochet, bead crochet...etc.

The instructions are clear. I like that there are international symbols too. Also, the instructions of basic stitches and techniques are shown for left and right-handed crocheters.

There are lots of neat projects from baby blankets, to a challenging "Philosopher's Coat". Also, there is a pattern directory. I love the pineapple and strawberry patterns!

Also, it is a gorgeous book. It has a clean design and is a nice size and length--makes a nice coffee table book. The projects are modern and beautiful, and the photography is lovely.

I plan to make a pineapple afghan and try my hand at some bead crochet. Maybe one day, I'll try my hand at that "Philosopher's Coat".

There is so much information and instruction for just about anyone to improve their skills as a crocheter or to get started. It is a guide that I know I'll refer to often.

39 of 41 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Worth Every Penny, February 19, 2003

By 

Trish "A Sun Salutin', Crochet Hookin' Chick!" (CA) - See all my reviews
(VINE VOICE)   

This review is from: Donna Kooler's Encyclopedia of Crochet (Leisure Arts #15906) (Donna Kooler's Series) (Perfect Paperback)

Once you open this book you won't want to put it down. There are so many hints and beautiful patterns. The author includes very useful illustrations and instructions for the beginner, and many useful stitch patterns (insertions, edgings, textured stitches, filet crochet, etc) so that the more seasoned crocheter can add a few new tricks to her/his bag!

25 of 26 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Lefties too, October 11, 2002

By 

C. Tunney "starchar" (PITTSBURGH, PENNSYLVANIA USA) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Donna Kooler's Encyclopedia of Crochet (Leisure Arts #15906) (Donna Kooler's Series) (Perfect Paperback)

This is a really good crochet book with very clear instructions for both LEFT AND RIGHT hand crocheters. It has an inspiring number of old and new pattern stitches and some interesting projects (cute little fine yarn anklets & a multi, multi-stitch philosopher's coat). Love it.