Margaret Hubert published her first book in 1978, and according to Google, has published 22 more on both knitting and crochet — she loves yarn.
Margaret has been quoted as saying “I love all aspects of both knitting and crocheting, love working with yarn of all kinds. When I am playing with yarn and creating a new free form design I feel just like an artist, painting with my yarn instead of a brush.” Margaret also loves the portability of a granny square and has some intergenerational projects on the go with her mother, her daughter and granddaughter — in her words ‘a golden thread between the generations’.
10 granny squares, 30 blankets is a delightful collection of granny square patterns with each one used in three different blanket configurations. What this book teaches you is that by simply changing the colours, layouts, yarn weight and borders, you can create very different blankets with the same granny square. As a person new to crochet — I've taught myself during lockdown — the benefit of using these granny squares is perfect. Getting the gauge or tension exactly right is not absolutely necessary for a blanket, so these patterns have been great for a beginner to work with.
'I loved this book so much that I've ordered my own copy, and am still happily crocheting granny squares.'
- Jane Cowell
So far I have completed one blanket and have two more on the go, though all with different squares and colours. My blankets are making great presents for my siblings. Keeping my hands busy and my mind on creative projects has really helped to bring a little bit of joy while we have been in the longest lockdown in the world.
This pattern book offers a range of skill levels, so whether you are a beginner or an advanced crocheter, there is something here for you. At the end of the book, you'll find a techniques section with written explanations and photos of all the seam options and tips on working the adjustable loop, as most of the granny squares in the book are worked in rounds. Each square includes a written pattern and an illustrated chart, and it also contains a glossary of abbreviations and a key to international stitch symbols. Please note that these patterns are written in US pattern abbreviations. All 30 blanket patterns also have a blocking diagram so you can easily make up the granny squares to the pattern.
I loved this book so much that I've ordered my own copy, and am still happily crocheting granny squares. Hubert has many other crochet books in the catalogue if blankets are not your thing. You might be interested in her 10 Granny Squares, 30 bags book which you'll find in our catalogue.
Happy yarn bombing!