Book Description
over 14,000 hits every day
Fitted Knits features 25 projects, beginning with simple T-shirts and shrugs and moving on to more advanced sweaters, cardigans and skirts. The book also includes a comprehensive section covering the skills necessary to create a well-fitted garment, removing the guesswork from customizing patterns. Each project includes customization tips and tricks, describing to the knitter how to tell when and where increases and decreases should be placed to create the most attractive shaping.
Customer Reviews:
worth the money.......2007-09-27
I own hundreds of knitting books. Many sit on shelves and I never go back to them. This will not be one of those. The designs are great, the techniques are great for reference when I design.
Finally, knit patterns designed to fit!.......2007-09-26
I cannot stress how much I love this book. I am not petite in height, (5'5") but I am slender and usually find myself making alterations to clothing and knitted patterns using variations on children's body measurements and adult's sleeve lengths. Even then, I often find myself steeking to attain the proper fit. The patterns in this book can be knit for a range of sizes, all of which are designed to produce a flattering fit. This book has put me on the lookout for others like it!
Fabulous!.......2007-08-29
Wow, the book just arrived--the designs are wonderful! Every single one is so cute...I can't decide which one to start with. This is a book I will reach for over and over for inspiration! I can't wait to try her technique for knitting from the top down.
Awesome!.......2007-08-21
Even the more 'complicated' patterns have been a joy to knit for this beginner/intermediate knitter. I've already done 3 patterns from the book, and will be trying out most of them. I love this book!
easy to follow designs.......2007-08-20
Initially, I just followed her instructions and it magically turned into a beautiful sweater. Since then, I have altered the sizing, even making one to fit toddlers. I keep going to this book for my next project.
Book Description
The elegant styling and exquisite detail of traditional fisherman's knits are brought to life in Alice Starmore's 20 original sweater designs for men, women, and children.
Customer Reviews:
Several wonderful Starmore classics........2007-05-04
Most of the sweater patterns in this classic book are for "ganseys" - not Aran sweaters, with the exception of two sweaters, although most of the ganseys offer cables, lace knitting etc. Two of the designs are Norwegian inspired using Fair Isle construction techniques, and one design has both colorwork and gansey design features. Thirteen out of the 20 designs are written for knitting in the round, up to the underarms. Finally, several of the patterns were written for a Rowan yarn that shrinks considerably after washing. There is only one pattern in the book for men, although, some might view some of the other designs as unisex. (Some are more delicate, made with a combination, wool/silk blend yarn.) You can probably see a photograph of many of the finished designs by doing a Google image search using the names of the designs: Stornoway, Eriskay, Lochinver, Fife, Cornwall, Norfolk, Scarborough, Filey, Inishmore, Inishmaan, Inisheer, Kinsale, Norway, Faroe, Baltic, Breton, Mystic, Nantucket, and Cape Cod. The Eriskay gansey for women, the Stornoway gansey for men and the Inishmore Aran are all Starmore classics. The Fife pattern for a young child is also very precious. This book is sure to become more expensive over time like the other Starmore books in the used book market. [...]
Stunning knitwear.......2006-07-10
If it's written by a Starmore, you can't go wrong. This book is full of absolutely gorgeous sweaters that will inspire even the novice knitter. I bought this book 10 years ago and it motivated me to learn to knit to a much more advanced level. It's a shame that Alice Starmore's books are out of print for the most part, as it deprives those new to knitting of some of the most beautiful books and patterns ever created (unless you can afford the ridiculous price for used).
Very comprehensive aran patterns.......2006-03-13
This book goes from fairly simple to very challenging. There is something for every level of confident knitter. I love that there are patterns for men, women and children. This book is excellent for those that have been wanting to try a pattern that looks complicated, but is rather very straightforward. I am anxious to try knitting a sweater in the round instead of knitting in pieces and having to sew them together. I highly recommend this book
Ten Star Book.......2006-02-01
If you love the look of cables, textures and Aran Sweaters, you will love Alice Starmore for putting together this book. This book is a treasure.
Fisherman's Sweaters:Twenty Exclusive Knitwear Designs for All Generations.......2005-10-14
Beautiful book! The patterns included are spectular. There is something for everyone. It is definitely not a book for beginners, but it is very inspiring. Well written, wonderful pictures and diagrams. A must buy for those who love "Fisherman"
knits
Book Description
From Kaffe Fassett, the hottest, most imaginative knitting designer on the scene today, comes a colorfully illustrated breakthrough knitting book.
120 full-color photographs.
Customer Reviews:
Glorious is a good word.......2004-06-11
Kaffe Fassett has taken inspiration for his patterns from the world around him, walls, roofs, food, the sky, you name it he's considered it for one of his patterns.
The results of some of these considerations are 35 patterns of easy wearing clothes that are easy on the eyes as well. Beautiful color combinations on charted designs make the clothes visually appealing as well as tactically from the yarn that is suggested.
And that's the only drawback I see with this book, if you don't use the recommended yarn, some of which is quite expensive, you don't get the color shadings shown in the book. The garments are still attractive and comfy but just not quite what I'd hoped for. Still, due to the design and attractive charting, I'll be knitting other items from the book.
Glorious Knits.......2002-06-14
Book arrived in condition as stated and within a week of being ordered. I couldn't have been more pleased. Also, had several e-mails back and forth concerning another matter and Allen couldn't have been more gracious. I wouldn't hesitate to order from them again.
Book Description
This favorite knitting guide features new color drawings that illustrate the close-up detail of stitches, gauges, joins, seams, borders, and buttonholes—and new photographs that show off the finished pieces. New tricks and techniques are also introduced, including alternative ways to cast on, bind off, and increase stitches, and up-to-the-minute stylish accents are provided in expanded sections on color knitting techniques and the use of tassels, fringe, and beads. Tips for the best possible results are included throughout, and the handy format of the book (it fits easily into a knitting bag) has been enhanced with a hard cover and a concealed spiral spine that allows the open book to lie flat.
Customer Reviews:
A Must-Have.......2007-07-07
This book is a must-have for me. I carry it with me in my knitting bag and refer to it all the time. I had the earlier version and when I couldn't find it after a couple of days rushed out and bought the new expanded version. The new illustrations are great.
The only reason I've downgraded it to 4 stars is that the Index is woefully inadequate. Finding specific stitches requires flipping through the whole book, it would be so much easier just to turn to the Index.
Wonderfully Useful Tool for Knitters.......2007-06-27
Vicki Square's newest edition is even better than the original version. The updated colored drawings make it even easier to understand the knitting techniques she presents. Its small size and spiral-bound format make it perfect for popping into your knitting bag for carrying a wealth of knowledge with you, without a lot of extra weight. For either a beginner or an expert knitter, Ms. Square's excellent and orderly advice can't be beaten. This is the fourth copy of her book I have purchased, three of them for friends and relatives. Highly recommended, whatever other knitting books you might already have.
A must have - but make sure you have the updated version........2007-06-13
I'm a small LYS owner, and I use this book all the time to help customers, either in answering questions, or as a quick picture reference to a technique, or as a guide to sizes and yarn quantities. But make sure you get the updated and expanded version, as the pictures in the first edition were woefully inadequate compared to the updated version.
The best thing is, it's just the right size to carry in your knitting bag on trips, which is when I tend to try more intense patterns.
A Must in My Knitting Bag.......2007-02-22
This and the Knitting Answer Book are must haves for this knitter. This book has been a mainstay for me since the first printing and when I saw a friend's "expanded and updated," version, I ordered it right away. It was worth getting the newest version . . . but I did have to transfer notes from my old copy to this new one and still found a few things that are not explained that I needed to add. The old copy will be passed on to a knitting friend or family member that doesn't yet own a copy.
If you are looking for a gift for the knitter in your life, this would be a welcome addition to any knitter's library --- and you might just get a hand knit gift out of it in appreciation!
Good content, heavy book.......2007-02-19
Just a quick review. I think the content of this book is great, and I can already tell that it will be my go-to book before I reach for my Vogue Knitting tome. I also like that it's spiral bound. Having said that, it is something that I would ideally like to carry around in my knitting bag and it's quite heavy for its size. It's printed on heavy color paper and the cover is heavy as well, so that is why I give it 4 stars instead of 5. Also, even though you can prop it up on its cover so that you can read it, it's printed so that only one page can be read that way; if you turn the book around, the other page is upside down.
Customer Reviews:
Great Book.......2007-09-24
I have very little experience with color-patern designs and I belive this book is very well designed - it is easy to follow the instructions and even to try and customise some of the charts for different garments.
Designs don't keep up with the instruction.......2007-03-21
I largely agree with the other reviewers' assessment of the technical info: It really is quite good. However, in this age of the Internet, most (perhaps all) of this instruction is available elsewhere for free, often accompanied with photos that are easier to follow than the black & white illustrations in the book. That these web-based resources often cite the book's material while essentially giving it away is, perhaps, a bit unfair, but such is the electronic world we're in.
As good as the technique description is, I can't say that I enjoyed most of the designs, which make up roughly 85% of the content. While I'd eagerly tackle Amy Swanson's Snow Sky pullover or Joyce Williams' Tradition Fair Isle Jumper, nearly everything else seemed to be stuck in the 80's. To be fair, some of that impression may come from what I found to be unattractive color choices, so more imaginative readers than I may be able to see past the photos and find a few more pleasing designs underneath. It's too bad that the publisher does not offer the Look Inside feature, which would allow you to make up your mind before buying.
If you can find this title used for $25 or so, I'd suggest buying it. Spend the extra money on yarn.
Outstanding Inspirational Designs.......2007-01-04
This is one of my greatest knitting aquisitions of the past 5 years as a wonderfully inspirational resource for a beautiful array of colorful fair isle style sweaters and more. And just as her mother did before her, Meg has carried on the tradition of providing comprehensive, easy-to-understand patterns that challenge the more advanced knitter, but the clearly written instructions make it a perfect book for the intermediate knitter to take the next step. Additionally, the photography of the Wisconsin landscapes that surround the knitting camp were definitely a treat for the eyes. Thanks again for such a wonderful knitting resource!
The Greatest Techniques Section Ever.......2005-03-01
As a knitter who loves fair isle and stranded knitting, I am delighted to see 38 intricately patterned garments, but wow oh wow! the techniques section is worth the price of the book all by itself. Years of tips from the Knitting Campers plus Swansen's expertise make the book technique-rich. If I was just starting out as a two-color knitter, I would need this book. As an experienced knitter, I'm delighted to have all things pertaining to fair isle and stranded knitting in one handy book. Some Starmore fans, like the two-star reviewer, who need to have their knitting patterns and color schemes completely dictated to them, may find the designs exhibit less color mastery than Starmore's designs. However, all other knitters may rejoice in a book of techniques and designs by knitters for knitters. If you want to learn two-color knitting, I highly recommend Sweaters from Camp. If you already know how, I bet you'll still find brilliant techniques that are new to you, and that you'll wonder how you ever did without. The techniques section really is that good!
38 Beautiful sweaters and a terrific technique section.......2002-11-08
People chuckle when I talk about going to knitting camp. These days there are camps all over the country but the original (and quite possibly the most widely attended) is the camp started by Elizabeth Zimmermann several decades ago. Her daughter, Meg Swansen, now runs the camp which actually takes place in a hotel in Marshfield, Wisconsin. It's a fabulous experience filled with beautiful yarn and loads of knitting wisdom.
"Sweaters from Camp" might be better titled "Sweaters from the Campers." A couple of years ago Meg challenged all current and former campers to design sweaters using the extensive colors (160 plus) of fingering weight shetland wool in a fair isle style format. Campers, some who are professional designers and some who had never designed a sweater, responded. This book is the stunning result.
So what might you want to know about the book if you can't look at it before buying? Ironically, my favorite part of the book isn't the sweater patterns. Rather it's the 27 pages at the start of the book. This section includes 7 pages on how to design a sweater - ribbing choices, armhole options, neck shaping, sleeves from the top or bottom, and borders. There's a handy table of suggested numbers for stitches based on size and guage. The second half of the introduction section is an awesome collection of tips on technique. When I attended camp, these tricks were the most valuable part of my experience. The book lays them out in great detail. Virtually every tip on using i-cord is offered. Other goodies include the "jogless jog", "spit splicing", "knitting back backwards", "circular knitting on 2 circular needles", five options on steeks, swatching options, and two color knitting with two hands. This section is worth the price of the book alone.
As for the sweaters, there are 13 vests - one childs, 2 mens, and ten for women. Most are button fronts with a v-neck. The next section, entitled "Small Things" includes two children's pullovers, tams for children and adults and a teddy bear outfit. We're then treated to ten pullovers - mostly unisex looks. The book concludes with a nice selection of cardigans.
The "look" of the book is primarily traditional fair isle. Most of the sweaters use several colors. My favorites are probably the less conventional sweaters. There are several that only use two colors in all-over patterns. There's also a terrific block effect fair isle in a child's sweater that will need translation into an adult look someday.
All told, it's a stunning book. The photography is plentiful and a visual treat. The print is large and the patterns are detailed (averaging over four pages per pattern). Even if I never knit one of the sweaters as written, "Sweaters from Camp" will be a steady source of both pratical and inspirational ideas.
Book Description
TRICOTER (TREEKOTAY) v. [French tricoter, to knit.]
Knit 20 stylish sweaters that beginners will find easy--and experienced knitters will find irresistible. Following expert step-by-step instructions, youll learn to create colorful, textured sweaters that rely on simple shapes, beautiful yarns, and measured dimensions (instead of counted stitches). Using bulkier yarns and bigger needles, youll knit more in less time. Youll discover smart knitting techniques that will get you hooked on hand-knit sweaters for a lifetime. Inside, find:
Tricoters unique chart system for knitting pullovers, cardigans, crop tops, jackets, and more
Tried-and-true techniques designed to help you create a sweater that really fits
Professional finishing tips to make every hand-knit sweater a success
Customer Reviews:
A book to grow with!.......2005-05-17
This books title says it all SIMPLY beautiful sweaters. It has 2 things that are essential to the new knitter. 1. Full sweater laid out so you can actually see the end result top to bottom, unlike many pattern books where you only see a small part of the sweater or the model is in a position so you don't get the full effect. 2. Actual pattern piece measured at each area, so no wondering about the final fit.
This book has been a favorite of my new knitting friends because they are always pleased with the final product, no surprises and for first sweaters, the directions are very clear. I have been knitting for over 20 years and I use this book more than any other. I can take the basic pattern shapes, change a few things, add cables etc and design my own sweater that I am sure will fit when finished. By far some of the best basics availible...RECOMMENDED for all knitters.
Over Priced.......2003-08-10
I like to buy books that are worth their weight in gold.. not just now, but two or even three years from now. I like books with techniques I can refer back to or a design that I just have to knit someday. I like a book that I can easily find the recommended yarn for.. and at a reasonable price.
Unfortunately this book has absolutely none of that. The styles are basic at best.. no challenge whatsoever. The yarns are "way too expensive" novelty yarns that will all be discontinued as yarn trends change. If you are wondering whether to buy... DON'T! I sold my copy on ebay within a week of purchasing it.
You can live without it.......2003-07-25
This book is very pretty and the yarns are superb and expensive, but most of the sweaters are pretty useless. There are too many bulky cropped thingies and patterns that call for all sorts of hard to find novelty yarns. The other thing which irks me is the insistence on peculiar needle sizes, for example, what the heck is a 10 3/4 size needle, and why cant you simplt use a 10 1/2?
Also, there is a sweator in a picture of the store that looks great but.....it's not in the book!
I bought this in a friends yarn shop as a favor and I have not knit one thing from it.
A simply beautiful book for beginners to advanced!.......2002-03-22
This book is great for beginners to advanced. The patterns are written very clearly and the charts are excellent. The sweaters are knitted very quickly and easily. These are great when you do not feel like working on a more complicated design. Granted they do use "designer" type yarns. However, with the guage and yardage information they provide, another yarn of your choice is easily substituted as I have done with my projects. I highly recommend this book to anyone with the "knitting addiction!"
Uses for this book if you are not a beginner.......2002-02-10
This book is an ideal first pattern book for a brand new knitter but what good is it to a more advanced knitter? Let me explain. (I have a year of knitting under my belt and three completed sweaters to show for it not including the one I am going to talk about)
I bought some very nice cotton worsted weight on a whim because it was on sale. I had no idea what I would do with it. Then, a special occasion came up. I had a dressy skirt but no top to go with it. Since the yarn was black, I knew it would match but I needed a FAST pattern to get my top done in time and the gauge was too thin for me to speed through. I chose the back button cardigan in this book and made it with doubled yarn. Lovely!
There you have it, this book is great for what I would call emergency knitting. You need a sweater pronto for a gift, an outfit, a wedding, whatever. Obviously, needle size 3 intarsia creations would be out when you only have a weeks notice.
In addition, the introduction is very informative and the troubleshooting tips are well illustrated. I agree, the yarn is rather pricey but then I feel that if I am going to invest my time in a garment, I should buy the best yarn I can afford. I have had a year of happy knitting as a result of this philosophy. And, the higher the quality of the yarn, the longer your garment will last in all likelihood. You're making heirlooms here! And, as noted earlier, it is easy to substitute yarns due to the format of the book. (I would not suggest a beginner going outside of the basic yarn "type", though. Cotton for cotton, wool for wool is best if you are not yet familiar with the results of changing materials.)
In my opinion, complaining about the simplicity of a book titled SIMPLY beautiful sweaters is like getting angry at a school course called BASIC English for being basic. There was no false advertising involved. The authors delivered what they promised.
This book has paid for itself in my eyes and I hope everyone will give it a fair chance. Remember, knitting doesn't have to be complicated to be beautiful. Happy knitting!
Book Description
When it's time to knit a new sweater, start at the TOP! With this collection of comfy, cozy sweaters, you can start at the neck; then try on projects as you knit to make the bust, length, and sleeves fit to a T.
* Try the clever top down technique in 15 easy knit-and-purl designs
* Keep these versatile sweaters casual with jeans, or dress them up for stylish workday wear
* Knit most projects in the round for minimal seaming and finishing work
Customer Reviews:
Top down Sweaters.......2007-07-10
These are some ugly sweaters.
The sleeves would look like bags on normal people because there is no armhole shaping and the knit fabric bulges at the armhole. Even on the model who is trying to hide this fact in the photos by posing with her arms close to the body.
The one sweater I am considering doing is the cover modular one with a yoke where this problem with the sleeves is not as bad. It might look nice in a Noro Silkgarden yarn that self stripes and the contrast color yarn could make it attractive instead of sweater where the colors are downright tragic.
I would not recommend this book.
Nothing startling new in construction, some attractive textured sweaters...........2007-06-02
As previous reviews have noted, most of the sweaters in this book are of the simple drop shoulder type. The author uses a provisional cast-on at the shoulder for the back, knitting downward. Then when its time to do the front, the provisional cast-on is undone and stitches picked up to knit downward for the front piece. This leaves a sweater with no shoulder seams, which may not be a good thing if the sweater is a weighty one, increases the stretching out potential. It is puzzling that all the drop shoulder styles are done this way since in the beginning section which is a kind of glossary of techniques, the 3-needle bind-off which would be a superior seamless shoulder joining technique in terms of stability IS described. Just never mentioned in specific patterns.
Here is a breakdown of the 15 patterns by sleeve type or type of pattern:
8 Drop shoulder
2 Raglan
3 Modular
2 Ponchos.
A comment about the other reviewers questioning about the model used. I think it is no accident, drop shoulders look best on this particular model's figure type, wide shoulders and no hips!
I am keeping the book for the attractive knit-purl textures that the author employs (similar to her previous Saturday Sweaters book) but I intend on making some changes: 3-needle bind off at the shoulders and modified drop shoulder style, perhaps some body shaping.
Disappointing.......2007-05-10
If what you want is a book of top-down sweaters, aka sweaters knit from the top down in 1 piece, then you will be VERY disappointed in this book. There is only ONE sweater knit in one piece. All the rest are pieced with all kinds of seams and therefore the advantage of knitting top down is lost. There is even a poncho pattern...like who cares? Top Down Sweaters is a book that is needed but this book is a SORE DISAPPOINTMENT!!!
great patterns.......2007-05-02
I love the patterns in this book and like the size range. I started one sweater as soon as I got the book and can't wait to see how it turns out. Patterns are very nice and use a variety of yarns, also everything is not on size 15 needles, which I hate, these patterns are much more flattering.
Nice addition to my "top-down" collection.......2007-04-18
I am addicted to top-down sweaters. I think I have every book ever written on the subject. Alas, I have yet to find the "perfect" book. Some of the books that tell you how to design your own are often too vague (like Barbara Walker), and others just have patterns for you to follow blindly.
What I like about this book is that most of the sweaters are NOT raglans. This is the first time I've seen drop shoulder sweaters mentioned from the top down since Barbara Walker's book. Most people do raglans, so the drop-shoulder garments are a breath of fresh air.
I also liked the fact that these garments have a more relaxed fit. Everyone is on the fitted, waist-shaping bandwagon lately, and let's face it, some of us don't want attention drawn to our waists!
I love the texture in these sweaters, too. They're so lovely.
Now for the reasons I didn't give it more stars. I was disappointed that there weren't any other sleeve styles. I'm interested in set-in sleeves from the top. Barbara Walker explains it in such a way that I'm lost and confused, and I haven't run into any patterns that have that technique. I'd also like to have seen some modified drops, too. But that's a small thing. It was such a breath of fresh air not to see all raglans that I'm not too worked up about it. After all, we all need to specialize in something, and I think Doreen is doing a great job of mastering the top-down drop-shoulder sweater.
Another problem I had with the book was that there was only one model featured, and she had such broad shoulders! At first, I thought that there was something wrong with the sweaters because they all looked so funny. But when I examined the schematics, I realized they were perfectly normal, drop-shoulder sweaters. Then I realized it was the model. So, I'm going to assume that these sweaters would fit like a drop-shoulder sweater would fit me, but it was disappointing to have to analyze the book so much. And I have to wonder, is this model related to the author or what? Is there a reason they had to use her and only her? Are they telling me that of all the people who had a part in creating this book that not one person noticed the model had freakishly broad shoulders and looked like a line backer in those sweaters?
All that being said, I do like the book and since I've never done a drop-shoulder sweater from the top, I will certainly attempt some of the sweaters in this book. This would be a nice addition to a top-down sweater book collection because of the focus on drop-shoulder sweaters. It doesn't have any design information, so if you're looking for a how-to book, this isn't it. It's just patterns. But I think it is well worth the money to round out a collection of top-down pattern books.
I'm editing this review. I'd like to add another star (although something is wrong and it's not letting me.) After perusing the book some more, it has grown on me, and I am really wanting to make even more of the sweaters. The Modular Garter-Stitch Jacket pictured on the cover is absolutely gorgeous, and the construction is very unique! I can't wait to blow my whole paycheck on Noro yarn to make it.
I would like to give this book 4 stars. I'm really glad I bought it.
Book Description
Created for knitters who want standard sweater patterns in a variety of sizes and gauges, as well as those who want a template from which to develop their own designs, this book provides easy-to-follow charted instructions for 18 sweaters, three in each of the six most popular sweaters constructions. Each style is then provided in 15 sizes ranging from toddler to large adult, then further divided into six possible gauges: 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8 stitches per inch combining for 90 options for each of the six styles, or 540 patterns in all. The cardigan and neckline variations make for more than 1,000 patterns. Detailed schematics for finished dimensions are included, along with a glossary of techniques and a chapter on design considerations. This is a definitive resource for the passionate sweater knitter.
Customer Reviews:
knit sweaters.......2007-09-02
excellent book, easy to use. I love the spiral binding. I am sure I will get a lot of use out of this one.
Fantastic book!.......2007-08-26
This book has EVERYTHING you need to make your own design. It takes the guesswork out & lets you indulge your creative side.
Very useful.......2007-07-05
I'm glad I've found a book like this and hope to get sleeves right from now on!!! A bit confusing at first glance but once you understand the tables it becomes very useful.
A must have!!!
I love to make my own patterns.......2007-04-28
I've always found it difficult to make my own patterns in knitting (crochet makes more sense in my brain), but I love to get a picture of what I want and be able to create it. This book allows me to do that. It basically does the math for me! This is a great way to figure out how to make the sweater you designed in another size, so you can make it as a gift for someone who is another size.
KNITTING .......2007-04-12
THE BOOK WAS A LITTLE DIFFICULT FOR ME TO READ IN PLACES, BUT I AM NOT USED TO SO MANY DIFFERENT SIZES FOR THE SAME SWEATER. SOME OF THE SWEATERS PICTURED APPEAR TOO LARGE ON THE MODELS SHOWN.
Book Description
Sweaters are the ultimate showcase for knitters—but most patterns require complicated piecing that can be a little tricky. These don’t…and they look fantastic, too! The seamless, top-down knitting method eliminates challenging construction, allowing knitters to focus instead on the individual details that make each sweater special. Not only does this guide thoroughly explain how the technique works—with information on reading patterns and understanding sizing—but it also teaches beginners how to design their own generic patterns for pullovers and cardigans in different yarn gauges. All the sweaters are organized by yarn weight, and the projects include an elegant rolled-collar pullover, dramatic capelet, and Asian-inspired top.
Customer Reviews:
Pros and Cons.......2007-09-20
Cons: I definitely didn't get this book for the sweater patterns. From all of the sweaters there are maybe 3 that I would consider knitting and wearing. The sweaters are unattractive and the some of the photographs of the models are unflattering.
Pros: What I do like about this book is the section on "Elements of a Sweater," especially the part on necklines and collars. It provides a good way for you to modify the patterns to create your own style (which are much needed considering the outdated sweaters in this book!).
Confusing & misleading.......2007-08-30
This book is really disappointing to me. I have been knitting for 20+ years, I have been teaching for 4+ years, I am a big fan of one-piece sweaters and in fact favor the top down approach (as opposed to bottom up) - but I know this book will confuse & frustrate a lot of knitters trying to make a nice sweater. I've read through it twice so far and I have found several things wrong or unappealing, from styling (a matter of opinion) to technique (a matter of experience) to plain ol' math (simple fact).
1) Math errors in the initial, basic explanations (30/2 = 10?) which make it hard to follow.
I also found one reference to a "psso" (pass slipped st over) where there isn't a preceding st that was slipped - any knitter, novice or experienced, will be brought up short at that one. I think what they meant, and what they should have written, was "bind off one st".
2a) The only decrease technique used is k2tog; nowhere have I found a mention of using paired decreases (i.e. using left-leaning decs, such as ssk or skp, to mirror the right-leaning k2tog). This is a relatively basic technique.
2b) The author apparently has not learned how to correctly do short rows, and she makes it sound like a difficult and tricky technique to explain why she doesn't use it. This is in fact the most elegant shaping solution for issues such as raising the back neck of a sweater, or adding extra fullness required at the bust. I have successfully taught many knitters the short-row technique in a single 2-hour class session.
3) The method the author suggests to get around doing short rows is to place (a LOT of) additional fabric on the front of the sweater. This may be fine for busty gals - I personally wouldn't know! - but makes for a poor-fitting sweater for anyone else. You will have to make the yoke much longer in order for the back of the sweater to be big enough across, and you will end up with wads of extra fabric under the arms. Take a close look at the pics and you'll see almost every one shows a model with her arms down, or else with baggy underarms.
I also thought the layout of the book in 3 columns made for choppy sentences which made the instructions that much harder to follow.
The saving graces are:
1) The section on collars looks pretty complete and is nice to show the variety of collar types (though I am leery of the instructions at this point).
2) A nice use of details, such as bows and other embellishments, plus some good examples of yarn combinations.
Too many knitting publishers are now trying to take advantage of the popularity of the sport, and are flooding the market with substandard books. No repercussions occur to them - but I imagine the poor knitter who spends hours of work, and cries tears of frustration - and it makes me angry.
You're far better off with Barbara Walker's old standard - it doesn't have glossy pictures but the information is the best.
This was sooo inspirational and just what I needed, I wrote a letter to the author (and I have NEVER done this before!).......2007-05-28
..."I just wanted to take a moment to let you know just how much I love this book. I ordered it from Crafter's Choice and I have to admit I was a bit skeptical. I have not had the best of luck with their books. Yours, however, is everything I had hoped for and more. I have only been knitting for about a year now, and I am self-taught. Actually, if you count watching Vickie Howell's "Knitty Gritty" on DIY, then I guess you could say I had some lessons. Your book, the way you have written your ideas and the pictures, along with the patterns written out so that I can create my own designs, all I can say is, "WOW" and "THANK YOU!" I feel so inspired that I plan on going to the store in the morning to get colored pencils and more 16" circulars, as well as more cables and points for my Boye needles. I just knew when I started buying those on sale it was going to pay off!"
After I wrote this to the author, I went to Amazon to try to find 16 inch circulars. I ended up spending $84 on ebay and got 3 complete sets of 0-11 bamboo circular needles. (that was a little over $2 per needle instead of the $7.50 plus shipping from here or $7.99 plus tax at JoAnns. Then I went to JoAnns and purchased my colored pencils, then to the Dollar Tree for paper and now I am trying to get the right image out of my head onto paper so that I can go and buy the yarn and start knitting. I really have to thank this author again for her inspiration.
Get this book and see if you are equally as inspired as I am!!
Good in theory..........2007-04-18
I compulsively buy every top-down sweater book I can find. I was hoping this would be a good addition to my collection, but there is very little benefit to be gained by owning this book.
First, what I liked about the book: the section on necklines and collars was good. I get tired of the old crew neck sweater, and this book has given me the idea to try a polo neck. Some of the sweaters are pretty and I think they can be used as inspiration.
What I didn't like: everything else. The author claims her way of starting at the collar and avoiding any shaping of the neck is revolutionary. It's not. It's simplistic and makes a garment lie funny. Putting more stitches on the front than on the back couldn't possibly make up for no neck shaping. I myself do not mind going back and picking up stitches around the neck to make the collar. It gives a more polished look. You can tell by looking at the photographs that some of the models have the front of the sweater riding up on their necks. I want to tug down the front of my own sweater just looking at them! The sweaters with wider, deeper necklines look OK without any shaping.
And the armpits on the sweaters are very deep. One reason for making top-down sweaters is so that you can try it on as you go. If you're already at the underam and you still don't have the required number of stitches, don't keep knitting! Just cast on the extra stitches at the underarms.
I wouldn't waste my money on this book. There are only a few sweaters that are attractive enough to even use as inspiration, and the design information given leaves a lot to be desired.
Everything You Wanted To Know About Top Down Knitting.......2007-04-03
It's all here, everything you need to know to successfully knit custom-fitting sweaters from the top down. From reading patterns to doing the math to designing your own sweaters, Carron takes you step by step from collar to cuffs. And if you just want to knit, there are plenty of patterns. With six sweaters in each of four different yarn weights including pullovers, cardigans, and long- and short-sleeved styles, there's sure to be one that's just right for you. The book could have used a more careful copyedit and I was tripped up by some of the abbreviations in the text, but once you get past that the information is sound.
Customer Reviews:
A must have .......2007-09-19
Debbie New is the mastermind behind some of the most ingenious knitting projects and methods out there. This book is a well of inspiration, techniques and artistry.
Nice book, more arty than practical.......2007-05-20
I love the book, very nice ideas and great pictures. In my opinion it is not so great for it's practical patterns (the ideas are nice but the sweaters are shapeless) but for nice original ideas.
Excellent. Unique diversity knitting techniques.......2007-03-27
Excellent buy. Unique and unusual diversity of knitting techniques. Beautifully presented.
Inspirational knitting design.......2007-03-20
I usually resist buying more knitting books, but this one is definitely worthwhile for anyone wanting to explore new approaches and learn new techniques. The color pictures are gorgeous and the instructions clear. I especially like the fact that the patterns are based on your own gauge and leave room for experimentation. Favorites--the scribble lace and the dishcloth vest, but i think I'll be coming back to many if not all the others too. I've had so many disappointing experiences with incorrect patterns, where I've had to rip out and figure out the correct pattern and measurements myself anyway. This book shows you how to get the correct measurements and gives you the freedom to select your own yarn, needles and gauge.
As other reviewers have said--Unexpected Knitting continues in the tradition of Elizabeth Zimmerman.
Debbie New review.......2007-03-08
Debbie is one of the more innovative knitters of this decade and last. Her native intelligence and curiosityn lead to very different approaches to knitting. Nonetheless, her book is easy to read. It is especially nice that all of her models are members of her family - her large family.
Books:
- Forever Cool: How To Achieve Ageless, Youthful, and Modern Personal Style
- Forever in Blue: The Fourth Summer of the Sisterhood (Sisterhood of Traveling Pants, Book 4)
- Glamour's Big Book of Dos and Don'ts: Fashion Help for Every Woman
- Glitter and Doom: German Portraits from the 1920s (Metropolitan Museum of Art Publications)
- Golden Straw
- Hanky-Panky Crazy Quilts
- History: Fiction or Science? (Chronology, No. 1)
- History: Fiction or Science? (Chronology, No. 1)
- History: Fiction or Science? (Chronology, No. 1)
- History: Fiction or Science? (Chronology, No. 1)
Books Index
Books Home
Recommended Books
- Friends: A Love Story
- Worlds of Difference: Inequality in the Aging Experience
- The Loneliness of the Long-Distance Runner
- The Holy Thief: The Nineteenth Chronicle of Brother Cadfael
- The Rose That Grew From Concrete
- X-Ray Diffraction Procedures: For Polycrystalline and Amorphous Materials, 2nd Edition
- The Winning Horseplayer: An Advanced Approach to Thoroughbred Handicapping and Betting
- Changing Impressions: Marcantonio Raimondo & Sixteenth Century Print Connoisseurship
- The Butterflies of Cascadia: A Field Guide to All the Species of Washington, Oregon, and Surrounding
- Ferns and fern allies of Texas
General
| Crafts & Hobbies
| Home & Garden
| Subjects
| Books
Lace Style: Traditional to Innovative, 21 Inspired Designs to Knit
Favorite Socks: 25 Timeless Designs from Interweave
Couture Knits
Knitting Lingerie Style: More Than 30 Basic and Lingerie-Inspired Designs
Twinkle's Big City Knits: 31 Chunky-Chic Designs
