Disclaimer: This book / pattern is one I have purchased (or used) for my own benefit. I have not been financially compensated by the book company or the designer to write this review. All opinions expressed are my own and based on my own experiences of using the book / pattern.
As you know the KCACOUK household celebrated a new addition to our household last year and as a result I became a little obsessed for awhile with crochet for babies. The book I’m reviewing today, 9 months to Crochet by Maaike Van Koert, came out a little late for me to use whilst actually pregnant (as first published in 2017) but it’s many gorgeous designs really appealed to me.
What a great concept for a book! I actually got back into crochet when I was pregnant with Little G in 2010 as I was overcome with the urge to make something for her – I wish this book had been around then as it would have been perfect.
Before I get onto the crochet patterns inside I just want to talk a little about the design of the actual book. I just love the arrangement of these patterns! The corners of the front cover and all the pages have been creatively rounded which suggests a softness to the book before you even open it. Then once inside beautiful little nursery animal illustrations accompany the text and photos throughout which is a nice touch.
The book is split into each trimester with twenty-five projects in total. And the projects are grouped into three levels; beginner, intermediate and experienced – but all of the patterns are very doable!
From baskets, shawls, blankets, toys and lovely cushions the book is filled with charming nursery designs for boys or girls and new mums to be.
The patterns are written in UK crochet terminology but the book also includes some excellent instructions (in the back of the book) with accompanying photos for basic stitches and techniques used.
I decided I wanted to make the cute ball rattle in bright rainbow hues for Little Miss. I used Drops Cotton Paris which is one of my favourite cottons. It’s a 10 ply / aran / worsted 100% Cotton which is machine washable (so perfect for baby) and comes in a varied range of colours including some great brights for rainbow making!
The pentagon motif, that makes up the ball, is quick and straightforward to hook up and nicely repetitive so easy to remember – great for hooking whilst watching your favourite TV show.
I was really pleased with how my final ball turned out; just perfect for little hands…
and Little Miss has certainly enjoyed playing with her new rattly ball.
My verdict is that this is a wonderful little book for expectant mums, new mothers or anyone that wants to hook something up for a newborn babe.
Well until next time; keep calm and crochet on my friends xx
That looks like a really cute book. Unfortunately I couldn’t find it in my local library search. Maybe it’s just in the UK. Love the ball that you made. I am currently making your Groovyghan CAL blanket from last year – it’s a good summer project that doesn’t cover your lap in yarn!
Hi Nicola, I’m not sure where you are located but I remember reading that it was published in the UK and the US & was due (though it probably has been now) to be translated into French, Dutch and Danish.
I hope you will share a photo of your finished groovyghan when it’s all finished! I’d love to see it. I love working with motifs that you join together for just that reason – they suit any time of year 🙂
I’m in Canada. I might have to request that the library buys the book!