The loopy, lacy, textured patterns of crochet are taking the fashion runways by storm. And millions of crocheters have their hooks poised, waiting for trendy new patterns for handhooked, high-fashion accessories. Noted crochet designer and author Candi Jensen is transforming the look of crochet with two great new books.

Crochet Bags!includes 15 projects ranging from a swinging cotton bag in hot summer colors to an elegant evening purse adorned with feathers. Specialty techniques include working with suede yarn, integrating beads into crochet, creating a fan-shaped purse, making a string market bag, and even crocheting with recycled plastic shopping bags to create a colorful and waterproof beach bag.

Packaged in Storeyand#8217;s best-selling die-cut series, with the signature at-a-glance, chart-format instructions, Crochet Bags!will be irresistible to all the fashion-conscious crocheters who want to show off the new range of styles and looks that are achievable with a hook, a ball of yarnand#8212;and Candi Jensenand#8217;s great patterns.

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.