I have not been financially compensated to write this Crochet Book Review and all opinions expressed are my own. This post does contain affiliate links and each link will be designated as an “Affiliate Link”.
  
I recently received the eBook Crochet Cowls written by Lisa Gentry and published by Leisure Arts, INC.

Photo Credit: Jason Masters, Leisure Arts, INC

Photo Credit: Jason Masters, Leisure Arts, INC

Crochet Cowls Review

This eBook contains 10-different crochet cowl designs using yarns from DK/Light Worsted to Super Bulky. The patterns are all classified as EASY.

The general instructions are located at the end of the eBook from pages 28-34 and include the special stitches, abbreviations, symbols & terms used in the aforementioned patterns.

Each Design indicates “One Size Fits Most” –

The pattern I most wanted to crochet from this eBook was:

ruffles & buttons

Photo Credit: Jason Masters, Leisure Arts, INC

This Design suggested Worsted Weight yarn and a size I (5.5 mm) hook to reach the specified gauge.

I chose to use Bernat Happy Holidays yarn – I had some in my stash and I thought it would make a lovely cowl to wear with my black jacket.

The pattern worked up very smoothly and quickly (one evening) – my gauge was close to the gauge specified in the instructions and I thought since the piece was made to a specified measurement (i.e. repeat rows until you reach approximately 14.5 inches) that the difference wouldn’t matter that much.

I had a little bit of trouble with the edging – and balancing out the specified stitches around the circumference of the cowl.  Most likely because of my assumption about the gauge…

I have since discovered that Bernat Happy Holidays yarn is actually classified as an Aran Weight Yarn by Ravelry – rather than Worsted Weight.

After a few attempts I was able to balance those edging stitches properly and finish the cowl.

I love the finished result. It measures as specified 16″ long by 7″ wide.

The Design is lovely and on the right person it will be stunning.

Someone with a long, slim neck (like my sister Kelley – guess who just inherited a lovely cowl?).

I do not like how it looks on me – I have always disliked close-fitted shirts and turtlenecks so why I thought this cowl would be different – I am not certain!  I love it but it looks like I am wearing a clown ruff and it is very uncomfortable for me – so my lovely sister has now inherited yet another crochet gift – good thing she appreciates crocheted items!

This eBook is available from Leisure Arts for $7.99 (the paper copy of the book is $9.95 plus shipping/handling).

Photo Credit: Jason Masters ,Leisure Arts, INC

Here is an Affiliate Link that will take you directly to the eBook Crochet Cowls by Lisa Gentry: http://shrsl.com/?~4734

Two other Designs in the book that I really like are fringed collar and buttons & blooms.

The remaining designs are mostly standard Cowl Designs in various lengths; that can be worn long, or wrapped around the neck – using unique and pretty stitch combinations.

 

Fringed Collar Photo Credit: Jason Masters, Leisure Arts, INC

Buttons & Blooms Photo Credit: Jason Masters, Leisure Arts, INC

Lisa Gentry has designed a lovely collection of crochet cowls – 10-patterns for less than $10.00 – so less than $1.00 per pattern – you really can’t beat the price –

If you have been searching for a new winter accessory, I would recommend this book – the patterns are very easy to follow and as some use specific measurements they can be customized to basically any size you want.