Modern Tapestry Book Review

When I got my hands on the new Modern Tapestry Crochet book by Alessandra Hayden of Just Be Happy Crochet I did a little jig right there in front of my mailbox! I discovered that she was working on this book last year when we met at the CGOA conference in Charlottesville--and I knew it would be a unique book.

And once I browsed its pages, I knew I had to make something from it.

I had a hard time deciding, because there are so many awesome projects--blankets, bags, hats, slippers, cowls, scarves, mittens, socks--20 designs to make in all. But this Happy Trails Headband really sang to me. And I knew it would SING to my daughter, Lizzie, especially in black and white.

One of the things I like about tapestry crochet is the fun you can have with color. And Alessandra doesn't disappoint with these designs. I mean really--look at the cowl on the cover!

Here are a few things you'll find in the book:

• Techniques section. This covers everything you really need to know about tapestry crochet if you've never tried it--so don't be intimidated. Alessandra covers the basics, how to read a chart, how to change colors and how to work in the round as well as flat. I found all of it super clear!
• Gorgeous large pictures of the finished projects.
• Full-colored charts that are easy to read. I really liked that I could use a sticky note to easily keep track of which row I was on.
• Yarns, notions, and any other materials you might need are listed in each pattern, as well as notes to help you through.
• The technique Alessandra uses in this book prevents "floats" across the back, so no worries about snagging things or how things look on both sides.
• There's a stitch glossary in the back, too, if you happen across stitches you may not have used before. I did say she covered it all, huh?

Didn't my headband turn out cute? I made it in just over an hour. And things move along the more you practice with your color changes across the row.

Next on my list...this Wayfinding Hat. I love the fit, the pom, and the small ear flap. And why is it that I looove arrows? I don't know, but I do!

Well, or maybe this Switchback Throw. I seriously want to make them all.

Alessandra is not only a fabulous designer, but one of the nicest people I have ever met. If you want to follow along with here and Just Be Happy Crochet, you can find her website here, Facebook page here, or Ravelry shop here.

The book can be purchased from Amazon here. I highly recommend it--particularly if you are looking for a fun and easy new technique.

| On the Board | -- To Him, our direction is more important than our speed.
                                                           ~~Larry R. Lawrence