Trend alert! Crocheting has become a fashion and crafting phenomenon. Flip through the pages of the hip mail-order outlets such as the Sundance Catalog, or check out the shelves of such cool stores as Anthropologie and Urban Outfitters and you'll find a wide array of crocheted clothing and accessories.

Now Hooked on Crochet capitalizes on this hot, new trend by offering novice and veteran crocheters 20 projects, including hats, bags, clothing, and even accessories for the home. If you love the look but have never crocheted, this is the book for you. First-time crocheters will learn the basic techniques, all fully illustrated, step by step, as they complete beautiful and useful projects to wear and give as gifts.

Start with something simple--a long, wrapable scarf made from novelty yarns. Then, move on to a throw pillow in jewel tones inspired by the fabrics of India. Make a fashion statement with a lacey tank top, a cloche-style hat, or a short cardigan in delicious shades of apricot and raspberry. Add some pizzazz to your home with a beaded crocheted fringe for a small lamp shade, crocheted trim for a hammock, even elegant Old World crocheted edging for pillows, sheets, and napkins.

Whether you're new to crocheting or just need a refresher course, Hooked on Crochet makes it a snap to learn the basics and then move on to more challenging patterns. The easy-to-follow instructions virtually guarantee that every project will be a fashion masterpiece.

"Eschewing the afghan and doily patterns often found in crocheting books, this colorful guide offers an assortment of trendier alternatives handpicked to appeal to women in their 20s and 30s. Those new to crocheting should have no trouble mastering the first pattern (a cell phone case made with a luxurious yet hard-to-find suede yarn), and the Striped Skinny Scarf and Basic Scarf with fringe will be a breeze for beginners. The Bamboo Handle Purse and Posh Frock, on the other hand, require some sewing savvy, and the directions on how to create decorative posies and flower pins look easier than they really are. Jensen, a veteran craft and needlepoint designer, describes the basics of yarn weight, hook size and gauge in an easy-to-follow manner, and the accompanying illustrations elucidate details that are difficult to explain (such as hand and hook positioning). While her prose is not as exuberant or as playful as one would expect from a guide touting its projects as 'sassy,' 'bold' and 'hip,' the book's creative patterns and vibrant photographs more than compensate. Color photos throughout." Publishers Weekly (Copyright Reed Business Information, Inc.)

Crocheting is the "new knitting," with 28 million enthusiasts in the U.S. alone. This book is perfect for beginners; it covers all the basics and provides 20 projects for such popular items as hats, bags, and even accessories for the home. Full-color photos & illustrations throughout.

Crocheting is the "new knitting," with 28 million enthusiasts in the U.S. alone. This book is perfect for beginners; it covers all the basics and provides 20 projects for such popular items as hats, bags, and even accessories for the home. Full-color photos & illustrations throughout.

Candi Jensen has been a craft and needlepoint designer for more than 25 years. She is widely published in national magazines including Vogue Knittingand Better Homes and Gardens. She is the author of Crochet Scarves!, Crochet Bags!and Hooked on Crochet. Candi lives in the San Francisco Bay area.