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Beyond the Square: Crochet Motifs
by Edie Eckman
2008. 202 pages. Storey. $18.95
ISBN 978-1-60342-039-6
Since we are in full swing with Granny Month here, I thought this would be the perfect time to share Edie Eckman’s Beyond the Square: Crochet Motifs. As you know, I am already a huge fan of the granny square, but this book is blowing my mind with all the lovely crocheted motifs! To be exact, there are 144 motifs in all shapes and sizes. Circles, hexagons, triangles, stars, hearts, and of course … squares. My mind is in overdrive thinking of all the possibilities!
The book starts off with an introduction that includes a discussion of yarn weights and a reference for vocabulary, reading charts, stitch abbreviations. There are also lots of helpful tips including how to begin and end a round, join motifs, and some troubleshooting advice for when the shape of your motif gets wonky.
The bulk of the book consists of the motif patterns. Each motif includes a full-color image and clear step-by-step written instructions, as well as helpful visual stitch diagrams. I do find visual diagrams soooo helpful!
The Appendix includes a couple graphs you can photocopy and use to help you plan and design your own motifs and a reference for stitch directions. There are also some cute and colorful drawings sprinkled throughout the book with project ideas to spark your creativity.
And my favorite feature of this book has to be the spiral binding! Genius! Why don’t all pattern books have spiral binding?! The book lays open flat so you can follow the patterns without the pages closing on you.
Here are a few of the motifs that I tried out …
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| Motif #113 |
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| Motif #105 |
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| Motif #1 |
Want to try out one of the patterns? Well, the publishers of Beyond the Square have given me special permission to share a beautiful and unique square pattern with you. Click here to try it out. You will love it!
I got this one too after seeing them on Made in K Town. I’ve made a few then put it down. But it’s always one good to have on hand to go back to when you feel the need to motif.
I love this book too and am enjoying the beyond the square challenge which Barbara from Made in K Town is hosting 🙂
My Ma has had this book for a few years now and every time I go to her house I try to “borrow” it, she always catches me. Have made a few from it and love how clear the directions are. Great pick to showcase.—–ForLove’sSake
#1 is my fav- I like the flower!!
Yep that book is on my birthday/christmas list lol
Yeah, I like books like this! And I especially like Motif #1. 🙂
I love that Motif #1, and the pink and gray combo would be beautiful for a baby girl something-or-other. 😉
That looks like a great book, I’ll be checking out the bookstores to see if it is in stock.
I think I need to add that to my must buy list!! Love all your motifs.:)