COUNTRY AFGHANS Spring 1996 Vol. 12 #1
from Harris Publications
1115 Broadway
New York, NY 10010

It is published semi-annually by Harris Publications, Inc. for $4.95 in the US and $5.50 in Canada.
This is a book in magazine format.

I was disappointed that while the cover announces that there are 45 original designs to knit and crochet, there are really only 2 knit patterns

  • However, on the brighter side of things, this is definitely a magazine to treasure for all the crochet items they do offer. Most of the items are either afghans or pillows made by using 4 ply yarns.

  • The patterns, in general, are very easy to understand and they are legible. (Being visually impaired, this is important to me.)

    It'd be one that would definitely want to buy this book for my own library.

    In the section devoted to the patterns themselves, some patterns require you to follow a chart for the color changes, but these patterns are also written out in row-by-row instructions.

    The front section of magazine is an overview of the patterns with pictures and descriptive notes.

    The section called "Needlework Treasures" is a source for old design books and hard to find patterns.

    The "Granny Square Sampler Section" shows very good detailed squares. You make which ones you like and assemble them in any order you wish. You can also use any colors you like.

    In "What's New for Needleworkers," there is a preview & short description of the newest books available to buy. Some of the books are for experienced needleworkers only, some are knit only & they are mostly from Bernat Yarns. There are some other suppliers as well. But there were no advertisements in this issue.

    There is also a section on yarns: "How to be a Smart shopper" and a section that deals with different classes of yarns, weight and storage, interchangeable yarns, etc.

    There is also an illustrated section of How To's. It lists the basic crochet stitches, the basic afghan stitch, and the basic knitting stitches. The ending is devoted to abbreviations and terms used, a section on how to tie fringes, how to stiffen and block crochet motifs, basic embroidery stitches and how to enlarge or reduce patterns.

    Reviewed by J. Barrett for Crochet Partners 2/96
    jbarrett@aqua.net