Modern Granny Square Crochet and More: 35 stylish patterns with a fresh approach to traditional stitches

Laura Strutt is a former editor of Craft Business magazine, and launched Sew magazine, which she edited until 2012. She is interested in all kinds of crafts, and shares her expertise and her latest finds on her website, www.madepeachy.com. She recently wrote Arm and Finger Knitting for CICO Books, and is also the author of The Sewing Manual, and The DIY Wedding Manual (Haynes). Laura is based in Colchester, Essex, UK.

Whether you are just starting to crochet, or you have moved on to other stitches and patterns, "Modern Granny Square Crochet and More" provides you with plenty of inspiration to get back to basics and reignite your love of granny squares, circles, triangles and more. Starting with larger scale projects for the home, Pillows and Throws includes colourful, bright and quick patterns for cushion covers, floor cushions and blankets and throws, using hexagons, flower squares and chevrons in addition to squares. Finishing Touches includes quick and easy pieces to complete your interiors, from a monochrome wall hanging to a granny circle rug, circular placemats in graphic black and white with fluorescent trim, and a collection of crochet 'pictures' to display. There is plenty to choose from in the Clothes and Accessories section too, including a book bag and coin purse, a granny hexagon tech case, and a triangle shawl, all in rich colours. The basic stitches and techniques you need are all fully illustrated and explained, so you just need the yarn and a hook to be able to create these beautiful, contemporary and stylish pieces.