The Mitten Handbook by Mary Scott Huff, photographs by Lesley Unruh, pub. Abrams, 2017. This unassuming paperback is one of the best books about knitting and designing mittens that I have ever read. Oh yes, there are patterns at the end of the book if you want to knit Huff's irresistibly cute/gorgeous/original designs. But the book begins with an overview of the design process and some pro tips. Part 1, "Designing Your Own Mittens," names the components of a mitten, covers gauge and size, looks at design theory (of color, texture, proportion, and repetition), and provides a list of some common types of mittens (various ethnic or technique-based). Included is a design worksheet (with a sample completed one as well as a blank one to photocopy) that directly translates to a pattern (along with a sample of how that works). Part 2, "Components," is a dictionary of edges, cuffs, thumbs, and tops. The beginning of each category gives an overview of the component's purpose, feel, and potential for visual impact ("The top of your mitten does more than cover your fingers"). The entries include notes (top-down or bottom-up, left/right interchangeable, etc.) as well as tips for customization and easier or neater working of the particular element. The introduction to Part 3, "Techniques," includes advice on how best to use online videos to learn new skills. The techniques themselves are not what you might expect: Measuring, Ease, Gauge and Swatches, Choosing Yarns, and Mitten Architecture (comprising Knitting Direction and Needle Configuration). I appreciate starting with measuring as a technique to be explored. It is the first, most basic step. Part 4, "Patterns," takes up the majority of the pages. For me, this book is less about the designs and more about the design process. For others, I can imagine that while the opening material might be interesting, Huff's adorable mittens take center stage. I heartily recommend this book for anyone interested in knitting or designing mittens...for any age group! Disclosure: The publisher sent Kangath a review copy of this book. Kangath was not otherwise compensated for the preceding review. All opinions expressed in Kangath's reviews are her own.
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Boys: An Illustrated Field Guide by Heather Ross, pub. Abrams Image, 2017. Have you ever wondered where to find a Quiet Boy, or how to best approach a Dangerous Boy if you encounter one in the wild? Do you understand the nature of Smart Boys and how to treat the infamous Beautiful Boy? These questions and more are dealt with in Heather Ross's field guide. Written with wisdom and whimsy, each type of boy is given an overview including Habitat (where the boy likes to be), Nature (what the boy is made of), and Behavior. Space is given to tools needed to navigate relationships with such boys. (For example, quiet boys benefit from mates who are good listeners.) This tender tribute offers a non-judgmental look at boys, complete with illustrations and timeless descriptions for fast identification in the field. I found something to delight in on every page. Recommended for adolescents, parents of adolescents, children, those recovering from heartbreak, and anyone who loves a bittersweet examination of people and relationships. Disclosure: The publisher sent Kangath a review copy of this book. Kangath was not otherwise compensated for the preceding review. All opinions expressed in Kangath's reviews are her own.
This giveaway is now closed and the winner has been notified. Thanks to all who participated! Slow Knitting by Hannah Thiessen, photography by Katie Meek, pub. Abrams, 2017. This hardcover book is beautifully put together, from the embossed title to the sidebars and schematics. The impetus of the book is to encourage knitters (and everyone!) to "source carefully, produce thoughtfully, think environmentally, experiment fearlessly, and explore openly". Each chapter outlines the author's thoughts and research on this topic, then profiles a couple yarns that exemplify that particular value. After each yarn profile is a pattern using the yarn and highlighting its qualities (and often, the value named in the chapter title). There follows a section called "Yarn for Thought" which gives brief overviews of several other yarns which could easily have been included in that chapter. "Next steps" sidebars nudge us to act on the values outlined and even go beyond, examining seasonality and embracing innovation. I recommend this book for anyone who has never thought about where their yarn comes from as well as those curious about the slow knitting movement. If you like even two of the patterns in the book, a purchase would be worthwhile. And now the giveaway: Leave a comment about one of the five Slow Knitting values (source carefully, produce thoughtfully, think environmentally, experiment fearlessly, and explore openly) and what it means to you. How have you enacted this value in the past, or have you never thought of it before? Do you practice it with regard to something else in your life (like food or transportation) but are just now applying it to knitting? Do you have a friend who embodies it admirably? What's one step you could take toward it? I'll choose one comment at random on October 26. Be sure to leave a method of contact (email address or Ravelry handle). Provide me with a U.S. address, and I'll mail a copy of the book to you. Good luck! Disclosure: The publisher sent Kangath a review copy of this book. Kangath was not otherwise compensated for the preceding review. All opinions expressed in Kangath's reviews are her own.
You Can Knit That by Amy Herzog, photography by Karen Pearson, pub. Abrams, 2016 Amy Herzog has done it again---written a book that speaks to beginning and experienced sweater knitters, topped off by a couple dozen wonderful patterns. Her signature design is a plain sweater with set-in sleeves, knit in pieces. There may be a touch of colorwork here or there, or a sweet bit of lace, or a line of texture or cabling. But her genius is in the fit, and it's such genius that it wants to be displayed rather than hidden by excessive adornment. In this book she stretches out, displaying that same genius in raglans, circular yokes, drop shoulders, and integrated sleeves. She reveals that the secrets to great fit aren't just in the measurements but also in the yarn. For instance, anyone who subscribes to the stereotype of drop-shouldered sweaters as boxy and bulky would be surprised by the Cushy Pullover (right). Made with a baby alpaca/merino blend, its fabric has "enough movement and 'crushability' to comfortably lie under the arms." Its modern silhouette feature slimmer sleeves. And though the body is oversized and unshaped, the sides are ribbed to provide a little bit of cling. But I'm getting ahead of myself. The reason for all these construction types is to explain in loving detail the procedure for knitting any kind of sweater. The book's mission, as evidenced by its title, is to demonstrate the accessibility of knitting beautiful, comfortable garments. The Introduction, written in Amy's amiable prose, explains (among other things) that these sweaters in this book are "lower stakes, fit-wise, than the classic tailored pullover." Chapters 1 - 3 are even lower stakes than the patterns, encouraging practice with swatches, with pencil and paper, and with tape measure and sweaters you actually own. These chapters are named "Before the Knitting," "During the Knitting," and "After the Knitting." They cover the following:
Herzog's wealth of experience and unique perspective almost guarantee that even if you have heard a particular pointer, you have not heard it put exactly that way. I especially appreciated the sections on fabric, ease, and trim. Next come the patterns. Divided by construction, they include one "mini" project for each category. Mostly sized for toddlers through 10-year-olds, these projects are intended to familiarize the knitter with new ideas without a huge investment in yarn or time. But they're also darned cute! Most pattern books have blurbs introducing the pattern. These are usually "romance copy," paragraphs sketching the inspiration for an item, or suggesting where and how it might be worn. This is how Amy romances us on the Entangled Raglan (orange sweater in the upper right corner of the cover): One of the most exciting things about the raglan construction, from a designer's perspective, is that the raglan lines offer a beautiful chance to show off stitch patterning. In this cardigan, I combined a smooth, lovely wool with beautiful cables that I used to adorn the seams of the garment. Those seams are important for stability (cables are heavy!), as are the buttons at the top of the cardigan. As you knit, make sure your neck edge is strong, since much of the weight of the sweater is supported by it. You'll be rewarded by a stunning garment that's also comfortable to wear. That's a lot of information for what's often the "fluff" section of the pattern! Occasional "Bonus Lessons" appear in sidebars throughout the book, ensuring that Amy is able to pack in as much content as possible. Whew! But so we don't have to wade through all the info every time we start a new project, Amy's included a two-page "super-quick guide to super-wearable sweaters" near the back of the book. She thinks of everything! Karen Pearson's photography is joyful and the styling by Astrid Scannell-Long is creative but not distracting. I'm looking forward to knitting the Heublein Pullover---I'll keep you posted on how it turns out. I'm a little concerned because it's worn by my favorite model and I think that may be swaying my decision. But it fills a gap in my wardrobe and I'd like to test the difference Amy says seams will make in a raglan. I recommend this book for any and all knitters. Reading it is like sitting down for a meal with a good friend who knows a lot about the things you love. And the patterns are the icing on the cake! Disclosure: The publisher sent Kangath a review copy of this book. Kangath was not otherwise compensated for the preceding review. All opinions expressed in Kangath's reviews are her own.
The Big Book of Stitches by the Editors of Martingale, photography by Brent Kane, pub. Martingale Press, 2016. This book contains instructions for over 360 stitch patterns, including those shown on the cover and in the slideshow below. Although they are roughly organized by type (cables, openwork, knit and purl, ribs, and miscellaneous) there is so much crossover that it gets tricky to know where to put any one pattern. For instance, Banded Rib is in the "Knit & Purl Textures" chapter instead of "Ribs and Ribbing." Luckily there is an index, so if you remember the name of the stitch you will be able to find it. Although that might be difficult with names like Cell Stitch and Cellular Stitch, or Star Stitch and Star-Stitch Pattern, or Check Pattern, Close Checks, Stockinette Checks, Checkerboard, and Check Stitch (to list just a few of the Checks family)! There are many beautiful patterns, mixed in with standard basics. Most of the swatches are pristine: accurately knitted and lovingly blocked. The photography distinctly shows every stitch and manipulation. The instructions are very readable and clearly presented with standard abbreviations and a key at the end. Perplexingly, the instructions for "Make star" and "Make knot" are identical. Also in at least two instances it is not specified to work the double yarnover as two stitches, but that's how the editors intend it to be worked. Stitch count increases and decreases are not given either. It would be helpful, say, in Grand Eyelets, to have an indication of the number of stitches per repeat decreased on the first row and increased on the second row. The organizational method, admittedly tricky for a stitch dictionary, is obtuse. Stockinette and Garter Stitch aren't found till the middle of the knit and purl chapter. Cable and Box Panel (page 14) and Garter and Stockinette Cable (page 19), are variations of the Eight-Stitch Cable (page 7), but the patterns in between seem irrelevant. Swatch color, instead of helping, seems random. I would try organizing the stitches alphabetically. Then instead of an alphabetical index, listing the stitches by category (ribs, openwork, etc.). This way a single stitch pattern could be listed in more than one category. Swatch color could aid in classification. If, say, ribs are blue and openwork is yellow, a pattern like Open Chain Rib could be green. A beginnng knitter would benefit from this kind of organization. But there are a variety of gorgeous new-to-me stitches found within the pages of this dictionary. I think I'll be working through the stitches in the slide show below before too long. This collection gathers together the unusual and the basic with clear, current photos. Good for anyone needing inspiration. Disclosure: The publisher sent Kangath a review copy of this book. Kangath was not otherwise compensated for the preceding review. All opinions expressed in Kangath's reviews are her own.
On the Loom: a Modern Weaver's Guide by Maryanne Moodie, photographs by Alexandra Grablewski, pub. Abrams, 2016. A gentle introduction to weaving, this book contains clear tutorials for 5 different stitches (and a tassel) on rectangular, circular, and non-traditional looms. With essential information about tools, fiber choice, and color design, it's a comprehensive guide for novices, but even experienced weavers will likely discover pleasant surprises. The projects range from standard woven fare (rugs, wall hangings, placemats, baskets) to wearables (scarf, necklace, even a hair tapestry!) to the unusual (lampshade, teepee, party backdrop). Many of the projects include instructions for making your own loom. Materials can be as simple as a piece of cardboard or as sturdy as wooden stretcher bars with nail pegs. Sometimes the loom is an existing object like a bicycle basket or lampshade. In these cases, and in the holiday ornaments, the loom remains a part of the finished product. The party backdrop can be woven between two trees (a beautiful idea for an outdoor wedding). The tote bag (below right) is made from an existing rag rug (homemade or purchased). The photography is well done. The tableaux at chapter openings convey an accurate idea of the contents to follow. The project photos contribute to the book's air of gentle fun. The colors used are pastels with punches of vividness which is harmonious without being monotonous. This book would make a great gift for someone who likes crafts. Many of the projects are of manageable size and require nothing more than cardboard, yarn, and a tiny bit of time. Maryanne's instructions and photo tutorials are excellent, striking just the right tone. She covers many techniques of weaving besides the different stitches. I recommend this book for anyone interested in weaving or learning new skills. Disclosure: The publisher sent Kangath a review copy of this book. Kangath was not otherwise compensated for the preceding review. All opinions expressed in Kangath's reviews are her own.
Here's a lighter macaroni and cheese recipe inspired by my experience at my brother's restaurant: Macaroni and Squeesh
1 head garlic 4 - 6 medium yellow squash and/or zucchini (to make about 3 cups shredded) 2 Tablespoons butter 1 teaspoon salt 16 oz uncooked macaroni 4 cups buttermilk or milk 1 1/2 cups grated sharp cheddar cheese 1 1/2 cups cottage cheese Salt, pepper, paprika, mustard, cayenne, etc., to taste Cut 1/4 inch off the root end of the garlic. Roast in a 400F oven 20 minutes or until soft. Meanwhile, finely shred the squash with a grater or food processor. Melt butter in large casserole dish. Add uncooked macaroni and stir to coat. Blend garlic with cottage cheese until smooth (I used a food processor; by hand is fine but will be a little lumpier). Add to macaroni and toss. Add squash. Season to taste with salt, pepper, spices, and dry or dijon mustard. Pour over macaroni and stir. Add cheese and stir well. Bake at 350 degrees for about an hour. Last July my family and I visited Midtown Brewing Company in Lansing, Michigan. This family-friendly pub features a unique menu which varies seasonally. Standard pub fare (pizza, nachos, burgers) is given new twists (goat cheese, caramelized onions, smoked portabellas) with stunning results. Traditional food like nowhere else---the best melt-in-your-mouth macaroni and cheese, smooth house-made soups (mine featured cashew cream), and a drink list including many local beers (several of them house brewed) as well as ciders and mead. If you're in Michigan, stop by! Your taste buds will thank you.
Disclaimer: The owner is my brother, Marc Wolbert. I was prepared to be pleased and proud with the experience of eating in his very own restaurant. But I wasn't prepared for the level of excellence we encountered there. It's really worth a trip. Stay tuned for a recipe inspired by my children's newest hero, Uncle Marc! Close your eyes. Focus your thoughts on the sensations coming from the soles of your feet. Feel the connection with the ground or floor beneath them and notice its temperature and texture. I find crochet to be relaxing---even more so than knitting. I'm not good at it, I don't know how to fix my mistakes without ripping out, and I can't seem to pick it back up without unzipping some of the stitches, but somehow that doesn't bother me. The above passage introduces Betsan's Relax exercise but this book is not all about relaxation! Rather, it's about mindfulness and how crochet can be used as a vehicle toward that practice. Often the Projects chapter of a book is organized into subcategories by type of item (sweaters, hats, blankets) or by season. The projects in this book are organized by aspect of well-being and begin with an exercise to reinforce and promote each quality. The 10 sections (see below for the full list) cover meditative, energizing, and joy-seeking projects---two in each section. Several of the projects are or utilize mandalas, circular objects which symbolize the cosmos and are used as meditation aids. Included in these are Nguyen Le's wonderful Sun Salutation yoga mat bag which features mandalas depicting successive stages of sunrise sewn onto it (the bag itself is cloth). The mandalas shown on the cover are small enough to be carried around as reminders to stay calm. Each section begins with an exercise to promote mindfulness. Some involve color choices, and ways to modify your crochet technique. Others are meditations apart from the craft which you can do any time. The projects themselves include notes for practicing and enforcing these skills. I wonder whether Betsan's first book, Knit for Health and Wellness, contains different exercises. I tend to get much more intense about knitting than crochet---good for focus, not so good for my body. Betsan includes several Basic Exercises to stretch and warm your upper limbs, hands, head and neck. I recommend this book for beginning crocheters and anyone interested in mindfulness and/or wellness. Don't overlook the Techniques chapter--- one of the best I've seen in the world of crochet. Helpful and soothing, it lends a new outlook to common points of stress such as increasing and finishing. Disclosure: The publisher sent Kangath a review copy of this book. Kangath was not otherwise compensated for the preceding review. All opinions expressed in Kangath's reviews are her own. As a Michigan girl transplanted to Cajun Country I often wax nostalgic about brisk walks in nostril-hair-freezing air, scraping ice off windshields, and blinding sunlight reflecting off snow. I'm serious---just seeing someone's breath condensing in the air on television makes me thirsty! So it was wonderful when The Unique Sheep chose my Singular Snowflakes stole as part of their Seasonal Shawls Club. I am now pleased to offer the pattern for sale in my Ravelry Store. This versatile and eye-catching shawl is made up of hexagonal lace snowflakes nestled together. Since real-life snowflakes are unique, the pattern presents beginnings, middles, and ends to mix and match for a total of 27 possibilities. You can knit the whole shawl using the same combination, use a different combination for each snowflake, or anything in between. Any way you choose is sure to give you a unique accessory. Instructions are given for a 16-flake stole using 480 - 540 yards of Aran-weight yarn and US13 needles. Make your own shawl any size or shape. Knit as many snowflakes as your yarn allows, then arrange them as you wish! |
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