47 of 47 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
Finally real plus size crochet patterns!, November 14, 2007
This review is from: Plus Size Crochet: Fashions That Fit & Flatter (Spiral-bound)
Loved this book. It has a wide variety of basic patterns, from a metallic tunic to lacey tops to a coat. The shawl is beautiful, and the purse pattern gives us a purse that is "in proportion". Also very uselful is the first section that explains how to adjust patterns, make changes in the sizing for bust and arms and raise a neckline. Many books that offer "plus sizes" are just sized up patterns created for smaller figures that don't fit well (like tiny tight tank tops). The sleeveless shell (also has matching cardigan) in this book has wide shoulders that will cover bra straps. And the only sizes in the book are from 1x-4x. It is the first crochet book actually created for plus sizes and I hope they keep them coming. The patterns in this one are basic shapes and classic styles that would look completely different by just changing the yarn, colors etc. so you can make several of each pattern.
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25 of 26 people found the following review helpful:
2.0 out of 5 stars
Rather disappointing, June 25, 2008
This review is from: Plus Size Crochet: Fashions That Fit & Flatter (Spiral-bound)
I was very disappointed when I read this book. I was hoping for a crochet version of the Big Girl Knits books, with fashion-forward and trendy patterns. Despite the bright colors, the sweaters are frumpy. How many button front cardigans does one need? I live in a cold climate, and I own only one. The obvious plus size styles are all here: big, thick vertical stripes; oversized cardigans, oversized pullovers. Clothes that cling to outdated rules about what looks best on 'heavy' women. There are no styles that show off the plus size woman in her best light, whether she is an apple, a pear, or in-between. How about an equestrienne jacket or a sexy mock-surplice top? Maybe a cool bamboo or linen hoodie with a zipper? Even, gasp, a few skinny horizontal stripes.
Another complaint I have is with the shaping instructions. Plus size women often need extra room through the back, bust, armholes, upper arms, ribcage, waist, hips, derriere, etc. In some cases, we need less room in one area and more in another. In sewing this is accomplished through darts, yokes, pleats, etc. Ms. Hubert seems to address mainly armhole, upper arm, and waist.
I also really dislike it when there are no diagrams to accompany the patterns. This makes it difficult for anyone who is not standard height to adapt the pattern. Consider that I an 5'1" and 42DD. Also a 2X. But my arms are short for a petite 1X. I have a 25" inseam, as well! What looks like a normal V-neck may end up at my belly button!
I also agree with the reviewer above who complained about the lack of variety in shoulder styles. A raglan actually fits my small shouldered busty frame better than anything else.
On the plus side: I don't mind chunky yarns in outerwear, such as the cute mohair coat. The bamboo cardigan is attractive.The stylist certainly did these garments a disservice, as they are not shown in the best possible light. I really can't tell if I like the asymmetrical hem polo or not. I like the spiral-bound format: it'd very practical. While the stitch patterns are basic and could be more interesting without increasing difficulty, I am happy enough to see something that does not consist of plain double crochet on and on and on.
Ms. Hubert has designed much better garments and written much better books. This looks rushed. I'm sure some will like it, but it was certainly not the book for which I was yearning.
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58 of 67 people found the following review helpful:
1.0 out of 5 stars
So Disappointed!!, November 8, 2007
This review is from: Plus Size Crochet: Fashions That Fit & Flatter (Spiral-bound)
When I first saw this book was coming out I pre-ordered it right away. As a plus size yarn freak, finding plus-size patterns that flatter is some times very difficult so, I looked forward to this book like a kid waiting for Santa.
I got coal for Christmas. As a woman with a big, chunky body, I'm puzzled at who thought it would be a good idea to make items with big, chunky yarn for girls like me. Although the colors are amazing, the designs themselves are frumpy, bulky and not at all flattering. (With the exception of one of the shawl patterns that is just beautiful.) Most of the stitches are large and bulky, not at all flattering to larger size figures.
You BBW yarn goddesses should pass this book on by. It is a major disappointment.
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