casts the classic stitches you think you know in a totally new light, showing them in ways that add striking textures and contrasts to handcrafted pieces. For the experienced needlework enthusiast, this book is a revelation—the perfect introduction to the unique Japanese style of crocheting and charted patterns. The introduction by Gayle Roehm explains how Japanese crochet diagrams work, allowing you to stitch these fantastic patterns and projects easily. A section on stitch techniques walks you through the basic stitches, adding and decreasing, binding, and finishing. The inspiring photos are all the invitation you need to grab your hook and get started!