Handknit Holidays

I've been meaning to review Melaine Falick's Handknit Holidays for awhile now and with the holidays right around the corner, I couldn't wait any longer.

The first thing that struck me about this book is how pretty it is. I don't know about you, but I love looking through my knitting books. Gazing at the pictures -- dreaming about all the future project possibilities! And this book makes me happy when I look through it. There are lots of big, beautiful photographs that show off the projects very nicely. In fact, most projects include several photos -- a big plus in my opinion!

Okay, so the pictures are pretty, but what about the projects themselves? Well, there are about 50 projects altogether and I would say that of that 50, there are more than a dozen that I want to knit! Now that's a good percentage. And I would venture to guess that there are projects that would interest almost every knitter. Everything from gloves and scarves to pillows, tree skirts and socks. There are big projects and quick little things which would make excellent, tasteful gifts.

I was really impressed with the number of designer's who contributed to this book:

• From Jo Sharp there is a pattern for some absolutely gorgeous pillows. I'm also in love with her Holly Leg Warmers.
• Leigh Radford , of Alterknits fame, has some cute little ornaments -- which would also make cute gift toppers, I think!
• Veronik Avery's Lace Photo Mats look quick and classy and would be excellent for making a framed picture into an extra special gift. I'm also quite taken with her Winter Solstice Table Runners. And I think my first knit from this book might be her Sugarplum Pullover!
• Iris Schreier, of Modular Knits fame, has contributed a couple nice scarf patterns.
• Norah Gaughan's Crisscross Shrug is not my thing, but I do find the design very unique and interesting.
• Annie Modesitt's Wire Menorah/Votive Sleeves which are knit with wire strung with beads would make fun quick gifts.

There are also a few items from some designers I'm not that familiar with that really stood out. Cindy Taylor's Over-the-knee-socks have a fabulous motif running up the back! I may never knit these, but I love looking at them. Then there is Priscilla Gibson-Roberts Swedish Heart-Warmer Shawl. The colorwork and rich colors are really eye-catching! There is Jolene Treace's River Forest Gansey -- a wonderful cabled sweater perfect for the boy or man in your life. And finally, I have to mention Suzanne Atkinson's Evergreen and Christmas Rose Gift Bags -- great little stranded bags.

I really can't do this book justice with words, the number and variety of patterns is incredible and the photography makes them all the more desirable. I want to make so many things in here! So really, check out Handknit Holidays, I don't think you will be disappointed! Posted by Julie at November 20, 2005 7:58 PM

This entry was posted in the following categories: Gotta Have It (****) , Knitting Books , Pattern Collection