Crochet Granny Square Tops, Bags, and More

The granny square is a delightfully versatile crochet motif, as proved by Baca’s (Crochet in a Weekend) most recent book. With 10 projects–a hat, a cowl, a hooded scarf, three bags, a shrug, two tops, and a poncho–there is something for everyone. Most garments range from small to XXL, with measurements for each size noted with patterns. Most of the projects will work up quickly as six use bulky yarn. The book ends with a listing of online resources as well as the YouTube channel handle of the American Crochet Association (founded by Baca). This book assumes basic knowledge of stitches and techniques, so it is not for absolute beginners and those eager to try these patterns will need to know how to do post stitches. On the other hand, the garment patterns are loose-fitting styles and do not require shaping. Specific granny-square techniques, such as join-as-you-go and joining the completed squares, are included with both written and pictorial instructions. The patterns are written rather than using charts. Helpfully, end-of-row stitch counts are listed. VERDICT A great purchase for libraries where Baca’s work or crochet books are popular.–Sarah Sieg “Library Journal” (3/28/2025 12:00:00 AM)

Salena Baca is the author of Crochet in a Weekend, Two Simple Shapes = 26 Crocheted Cardigans, Tops & Sweaters; How to Crochet in 10 Easy Lessons; My Crocheted Closet; Crochet in a Day; Build Your Skills: Crochet Tops; and Crochet for Christmas, among others. She resides in Bend, Oregon, happily spreading the joy of crochet far and wide.