Hands in Delight

Win a Free Copy of Sharon Silverman’s Latest Book!

August 10, 2012 at 8:49 am 1 comment

Sharon Silverman’s new book, Crochet Scarves – Fabulous Fashions, Various Techniques (Crochet Scarves), is a true joy. I flipped open the book and immediately fell in love with all 21 patterns. There are scarves made in traditional crochet, Tunisian crochet and even one done in broomstick lace.

“I was looking for projects that would be beautiful to wear and would also be good teaching tools. Scarves are small enough to take a chance on, with a new technique, an exotic yarn, or a different style than you’re used to,” explained Sharon. “They don’t take a huge investment in time or materials, but are fulfilling to make, wear, or give as gifts. I’m very pleased with the variety of projects in the book. Seven of the projects are Tunisian crochet, and I really hope that crocheters who haven’t tried this technique yet will give it a go.”

Crochet Scarves is filled with clever designs that are perfect for laidback summer-time stitching – try a new technique without becoming invested in a project that will take countless hours to complete. These quick and light projects also are the perfect inspiration for luxury yarns.

Personally, when the book arrived at my front door, I went straight to my stash from Maryland Sheep and Wool to find my Mirabella yarn (50% Angora, 50% wool) by Tess Designer Yarns. I took out my Tunisian crochet hook so that I could try the Premium Cable scarf. This is the first Tunisian design I’ve seen that encourages the use of a cable needle. I use them all the time while knitting cables and I felt silly that I had never thought to use it for my Tunisian cables too.

My Premium Cable scarf – one of my favorite designs in Crochet Scarves.

“From a design standpoint, since there are 21 patterns I had the opportunity to experiment with colors, textures, shapes, edgings…it was a lot of fun. And because scarves come in just one size each, they don’t require the multi-size pattern-writing complexity of items like sweaters,” continued Sharon. That makes Crochet Scarves the perfect choice to get a jump start on your holiday gifts. You can have your list done in no time!

So, What’s Your Favorite Design?

Cactus Lace Scarf

“Like any good ‘mother,’ I can say truthfully that I find things to love in each of my ‘children!’ The stitch definition of the yarn in Catch a Weave, the color palette of Monet’s Village, and the colors and fringe on Classic Plaid come to mind right away,” remarked Sharon when I asked her this question. “However, if I had to choose just one, it would have to be Cactus Lace done in a combination of broomstick lace and regular crochet with Luna laceweight yarn from SpaceCadet Creations. The finished scarf is light as a feather.”

I would have to agree – I was thrilled to see the Cactus Lacus. For those of us who have been a little shy to try broomstick lace, this is the perfect primer. “[This pattern] would be a good starting place, but I would recommend that crocheters try several rows of the pattern with sport or worsted weight yarn and bigger hook first. The stitches in broomstick lace are not difficult, but it takes some practice getting used to managing the loops, not losing any, sliding the hook through the loops, etc. It makes sense to get comfortable with the technique before trying it with laceweight yarn,” commented Sharon.

My other top picks, include:

Marabou Scarf

 Marabou is a show stopper – it’s simply gorgeous.

Swallowtail Cowl

 Swallowtail Cowl has outstanding lines.

SeaSplash Scarf

 SeaSplash is so light and airy.

Crochet Scarves – Fabulous Fashions, Various Techniques can be purchased on www.amazon.com. However, I am giving away a copy of the book to one lucky winner. Post a comment below about this amazing book and I will include you in the drawing on August 17^th. Be sure to include your name!

For more information on Sharon Silverman’s incredible designs and what’s on the horizon for her, simply visit www.sharonsilverman.com. “One exciting thing [that I am working on] is a partnership with the folks at World Wide Yarns, who are putting together crochet kits for sale. So far, I’ve created two original designs for them – the Peach Fab throw using Colinette’s “AbFab” yarns and the Ripples on the Lake wrap using Dyelot Yarn’s “Recovery Package”. I’m working on a couple of book ideas and some magazine proposals–any requests, let me know! The best way to find out about my projects is on my website, www.sharonsilverman.com, on Facebook at Sharon Silverman Crochet, or on Ravelry at CrochetSharon. I’m also looking into the possibility of creating custom home decor items for interior designers,” Sharon concluded.

Entry filed under: Books on Hooks, Crochet in the News, Pattern Alert, Project Report, Stash Buster's Diet 2012, Tunisian Crochet. Tags: .