Book Review: Modern Baby Crochet

I've been anxiously awaiting the release of Stacey Trock's latest book, Modern Baby Crochet, ever since she began sharing sneak peeks on the FreshStitches blog late last year. Having taken her Woodland Animals Craftsy class and made countless designs from her second book (Crocheted Softies) and Ravelry pattern store, I was excited to have a brand-new book of patterns in my gift-making arsenal for the latest batch of babies.

In short, Modern Baby Crochet doesn't disappoint! There are 21 patterns total, and they are grouped by color family (bold and bright, pastels and neutrals), making it easy to crochet several items for a coordinated nursery if you so choose. With very few exceptions, the designs are unisex; they're not only perfect for nurseries, but would suit any modern home decor as well. There is a great assortment of afghans, decor and stuffed animals, plenty of which I plan on making for myself!

Mondrian-inspired afghan

Besides the well-written, easy-to-follow instructions you've come to expect from Stacey, there are also excellent notes on choosing your yarns and color schemes, making sure your finished items are baby-friendly, and detailed instructions and diagrams for various crochet stitches and techniques. There is also a page dedicated to washing and care of your finished items at the back of the book which explains the ins and outs of blocking pieces waiting to be seamed, how and when to wash by hand or in the washing machine, and the best way to clean a stuffed toy.

Oakley the owl

Overall, the book is concise and well-executed, with a cohesive look throughout. Quick tips and tidbits are scattered throughout in boxes with a colored safety pin to draw your eye; each pattern features two or more photographs, and most also include schematics or charts as appropriate. There are several patterns which have found their way to the top of my queue, and I can already tell this will be one of my go-to books for years to come.

Modern Baby Crochet is an instant classic and essential for any crocheter's library!

You may like to know: I purchased this book on Amazon.com and was not asked to write this review (nor was I compensated for it).

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