Bonnie the Cow & Friends: 20 Loveable Animals & Birds to Crochet Using Chunky Yarn

Description

This third book from Claire Gelder presents Bonnie the Highland Cow and Isla her calf, as well as other adorable crocheted companions. With soft, chunky yarn and long, floppy limbs, you'll have no choice but to pick them up, or snuggle on the sofa with them. Oversized, and full of life, these toys are about 70cm tall and the babies measure about 35cm. The projects are aimed at beginners to improvers, and are suitable for someone who has mastered the basics of crochet. Open up the book to be introduced to 20 loveable animals such as garden birds, deer and doe, badger and fox, cat and dog, mouse and hedgehog, owls and lovebirds, as well as a frog and baby and a goat and his kid. Which one will steal your heart first?

Claire Gelder loves all things hand-made, hand-woven and hand-crafted. She has been crafting for relaxation and fun for over 20 years. In 2015, Claire left her career as an NHS Director to launch her new business, Wool Couture, which specializes in knitting, crochet, weaving and macrame. She quickly got her DIY craft kits on the shelves of retail giant John Lewis and, in 2017, secured two Dragons' Den investors to help her pass on her passion of crafting to the next generation. Adding a modern twist to age-old pastimes knitting and crochet, Claire uses giant, chunky yarn and oversized knitting needles made in her own factory. As well as a successful entrepreneur, Claire is also a firm believer in the therapeutic side of craft, particularly its benefits to mental health and well-being. Claire lives in Wakefield, UK and is proud to be continuing Yorkshire's textile tradition. Her website is www.woolcouturecompany.com

Crochet stuffed animals are a perennial craft favourite, and author Claire Gelder is experienced at designing and writing straightforward patterns for these creatures. In addition to the titular Bonnie Cow, a variety of familiar beasts are featured here, including Elsie Cat, Finlay Dog, Mack Mouse, and an assortment of specific birds. A combination of colour contrasts, yarn texture, and a handful of stitch techniques bring life and character to these endearing critters. All are meant to be slightly understuffed, giving the desired floppiness and avoiding the sometimes-stiff texture of crochet. Clearly written patterns preceded by a step-by-step instructional section with photographs deliver achievable projects with cute personalities. -- Anne Heidemann * Booklist * They don't come much cuter than this when it comes to crochet creations. This is the third book by Claire that not only has Bonnie the Highland cow and her calf, but other adorable animals such as a fox, hedgehog and birds, too. In soft, chunky yarn, they make the perfect gifts for little ones. The substantial projects - the toys are about 70 cm with the "babies" 35 cm - are perfect for beginners through to those who have already mastered the basics of crochet. * People's Friend Special 223 * We can't resist the lure of a new book packed with cute crochet creatures to treasure. Bonnie the Cow & Friends is packed with loveable characters, including farm animals, wildlife, and garden birds. A beautiful crochet toy is not only cheering to make, but they are also gorgeous to give as gifts too. This book uses Wool Couture's 100% Merino Cheeky Chunky yarns for all the main projects to create the softest, cuddliest toys, although you can substitute other chunky yarns. Claire includes photo-illustrated step-by-step guides to all the stitches you'll need to complete the projects including helpful tips for assembling and finishing toys. The animals in this book are so appealing you won't know which one to start with - from the shaggy coated Bonnie the Cow and her little calf Isla to the deer and doe, Oscar and Daisy, and the elusive woodland duo, Mary Badger and Finn Fox, there's an ami friend in here that's perfect for everyone. * Inside Crochet *