Better Homes and Gardens magazine Knit It, has just come out with Best of Knit It. The 100+ knit and crochet classic patterns were chosen by the Editors of the knitting magazine. This is the first BH&G knitwear collection and they have been selling books since 1930.
The clear colorful photographs show great detail of the finished items. Beginner thru advanced skill level projects are included. The material section tells you the yarn weight used as a number per the Craft Yarn Council as well as sport or worsted weight, super bulky etc. It also lists the yardage required. This gives you enough information to use yarn you have or to experiment with different yarn. The book gives a tip: circle all numbers pertaining to the size you are using, to make things easier. This is perfect for beginners, leaving nothing left to chance. Finishing steps such as blocking or felting are provided within the patterns instructions. At the back of the book are knitting and crochet basics.
There is a charity projects sections. This includes a prayer shawl in knit and one in crochet, A baby hat and blanket. There are suggestions for organizations in need and some tips before starting any charity project.
So what patterns are in the book? There are women's garments, bags and purses, accessories, babies, kids and home decor. The book starts off with a Fisherman Shrug that uses 540 yds on size 13 needles. With Raglan sleeves and fold up cuffs it is stylish and will have people asking were you bought it. The Boxy Jacket is cropped using loops to fasten the buttons. The pattern is given in sizes up to 3X. I am a sucker for a purse/handbag and there are a number of them here. My favorite is the variegated Rafia Tote with leather straps. The Striped Layette for a boy, is done in an easy knit with a great color combination and pattern. There is an updated Boy's Ribbed Pullover with added knit patch accents to the elbows and shoulders. The girls Furry Hat and Muff Set is cute. I always did like my handmuff as a girl. For home decor there are a number of pillows and afghans to choose from. With so many patterns you are sure to find your own favorites.
New England Yarn and Spindle located at 801A Terryville Avenue, Bristol, CT 06010, 860-516-4646 is having a class "Knitting in Both Directions". Interesting timesaver, and who wouldn't like more time. Knitting in Both Directions is being held Monday, September 26, 2011 from 6-7 P.M. Most of us knit in one direction, but what would happen if you could knit in EITHER direction? Bobbles would pop out faster, entrelac would be even more fun, edgings would be added quicker and your yarn would be less tangled. You can learn the basics to knitting (and purling) in "the other direction" regardless of the way you knit now! The class fee is $25.00.
Time is wasting...
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