tank pattern in Happy Hooker-gd for beginner?

[calypso15]

Not really sure where to put this post so I guess I'll try here...

 

I have crocheted a couple of simple afghans about 15 years ago and I haven't done anything since ( ok, I started a sweater but became discouraged) Recently I was inspired to try crochet again and found a nice sweater pattern by Bernat, but the yarn is Boucle and very confusing as to where to put the hook with all the loose threads!! I decided to hold off on that until I get a little more experience... so while looking for a book, I came across "The Happy Hooker" by Debbie Stoll . There is a cool looking tank designed by Ajda Mesic.

 

Is anyone familiar with this pattern? Does this seem a good pattern for a beginner? Also, I finally found the specified yarn Schachenmayr Catania online, but I was thinking maybe I should try something a little less expensive and more readily available-- What can I substitute which may found in Michaels, Joanns, Walmart, or ACMoore? (Hoping to stay with cotton)

 

Thanks!!

Tammy in Florida