Knitting Block by Block: 150 Blocks for Sweaters, Scarves, Bags, Toys, Afghans, and More Author: Visit Amazon's Nicky Epstein Page | Language: English | ISBN:
0307586529 | Format: EPUB
Knitting Block by Block: 150 Blocks for Sweaters, Scarves, Bags, Toys, Afghans, and More Description
From Booklist
In previous tutorials, the popular designer Epstein has covered edgings, flowers, and felting, among many other topics. Here she discusses a very practical skill and provides some fine patterns for a very simple shape—squares. Knitters most often use squares, or blocks, as Epstein calls them, for gauge swatches. But, actually, they are the most versatile of constructions and can be used for sweaters, toys, and, of course, afghans. Although she begins by showing simple squares done in seed and garter stitches, Epstein quickly moves on to embossed, cabled, colored, and appliquéd squares, all of which will get knitters’ hands twitchy. Then come instructions, in words and charts, for the patterns, some involved, like an afghan, and others, like a hat and scarf, fairly quick to make. A bag looks particularly enticing. Back matter includes information about edgings, a detailed glossary, and a list of charities on which to bestow finished projects. More than 180 color illustrations add to the pleasure of this appealing book. --Ilene Cooper
Review
"We bet you've never seen blocks quite like these. Use the 150 patterns to fashion your own custom projects, or follow designer Nicky Epstein's simple steps to create intricate, sophisticated accessories." --
Good Housekeeping See all Editorial Reviews
- Hardcover: 240 pages
- Publisher: Potter Craft (November 9, 2010)
- Language: English
- ISBN-10: 0307586529
- ISBN-13: 978-0307586520
- Product Dimensions: 10.2 x 8.7 x 0.8 inches
- Shipping Weight: 2.4 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
Living in Texas, I've found that I can knit afghans during only a few winter months. Why? It's often too hot to be working on a large, warm afghan. So when I saw that this book was focused on small blocks that could be joined (in a cold month) to make a large piece, I jumped at it.
Now that I've received the book, I've changed my mind.
Here's my take on "Knitting Block by Block."
PROS:
1. Nicky Epstein's books are always high quality, and this book is no exception. Excellent binding allows the book to remain open where you're working without damaging the spine. Paper is heavy and pleasing to the touch. Color is, as expected, lavish. In fact, color is one of the best parts of an Epstein volume.
2. Patterns and examples are clear, even for a novice knitter. You can see many different types of blocks and follow one of her examples or create your own unique design.
CONS:
1. It's a matter of personal taste, but, after reading through the book several times, I realized that I like knitting as a continuous piece of fabric without seams (where they can be avoided). I do not care for unnecessary seams like those shown in her scarves.
2. Again, it's a matter of taste, but, although I'm usually like a child with her nose pressed against a candy store window, screaming "I want one of those," I did not find many patterns that compelled me to whip out my needles.
3. Although I like the look of cord on knit fabric, I have a personal dislike of sewing my knitting together. I do the assembly grudgingly and have no wish to do more. With many of the designs, I'd be sitting for hours doing something I don't care to do.
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