1 of 1

Write now Article Tools

In crochet, there are a few distinct types of resources available for making things. Stitch books and project books are seemingly the same, but rather different too. Stitch books contain all sorts of information about how to create a variety of stitches and patterns, while project books more often contain the actual patterns you can follow to create a notable item. Both have required information like how to make common stitches and abbreviation charts in them, but they are also unique to each other, developing different skills for the people who use them.

*Crochet Stitch Books: There is a wide assortment of crochet stitch books available for anyone interested in learning new stitches and using them to make their own designs and projects from them. Stitches in these books are often combined to create a repeating pattern. Some patterns can be made by making a foundation row and then repeating the same stitch sequence over repeatedly, while other consists of several rows to make a particular design. The rows are then replicated in sequence to create an all over pattern or motif effect.

Crochet stitch books list the materials you will need without giving you the yarn weight or hook size. They may offer recommendations, but they generally do not give specifics. Nor do they tell you an exact amount of stitches necessary to make a foundation row, following with the pattern. Instead they provide a multiple of the number of stitches you will need, plus any remainder stitches to make your foundation and following rows. It is up to you to determine the exact amount of foundation stitches you need, depending on the individual size of your desired project. Blankets are bigger than doilies, and use different materials and hook sizes.

*Crochet Project Books: Project books are commonly based on a theme, and they have tried and true patterns that you can follow to make finished items. They are very clear about yarn choices, right down to the exact shades and colors. Measurements have been pre-determined based on materials and hook sizes used for publication of the pattern, and there is a gauge so you can make sure the tension of your stitches matches theirs, making adjustments where necessary as you complete the design of your choice.

Crochet project books can contain lots of individual patterns, or only a few, and their price will vary accordingly. Crochet stitch books encourage you to test your skill at designing your own new and unique patterns, while crochet project books allow you to create tried and true projects that have been made for many years. Book assortments can be found at craft stores, in bookstores and online. Whether you choose to rely on one or both of these resources, you are bound to have fun getting hooked on crochet.

Learn more about this author, M. J. Joachim.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about Crochet stitch books versus project books?
We want to hear your view. Write now!