Kudos, Tammy, on your first book! Tammy Hildebrand is a crochet designer and the vice president of the Crochet Guild of America (CGOA). Many of her designs are not new to many of you. They have been published in Interweave Crochet, Crochet!, Crochet World, Crochet 1, 2, 3 and in the bookUnexpected Afghans, as well as for many other publications. Tammy has designs in the collections of many yarn manufacturers and distributors, and shows her best and brightest designs in this book.
The 18 original patterns featured here are shown in six traditional techniques, which include traditional crochet, broomstick lace, hairpin lace, and Tunisian crochet. What makes this a special book is the way Tammy makes each pattern look like it just came off a fashion runway. Each wrap is versatile and stylish, from dressy to casual. An explanation of each technique (with a little history included) is well written, and step-by-step photo tutorials are offered before you begin any pattern. There are three patterns shown for each technique, making this a perfect book for all levels.
Tammy has included designs in hairpin and broomstick that are worked in the round. The instructions are clear and concise, and recommendations are made for different yarns, edges, and even different ways to wear the garments. With ponchos, shawl, and ruanas, there is a wrap sure to please everyone.
My personal favorite is the Purple Passion shawl, which if made smaller could be a scarf, on page 5. The Irish Jig pattern, made using hairpin lace, looks like a knitted dropped stitch pattern. Cleverly shown either as a shawl or over a skirt, this is a must-have accessory.
HOW TO ENTER THE SWEEPSTAKES FOR A COPY OF THIS BOOK: Simply send an email (one entry per person, please) to pghknitandcrochet@gmail.com by Jan. 31, 2014, with the subject line of “Crochet Wraps.” Please include your name and a phone number where you can be reached. The winner will be drawn randomly from the entries and announced in the next issue of Festival Update.