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January 18, 2006

Teddy Bears

This is mostly for Theresa who was asking about this book in her post today.  It's a mini-review of  Teddy Bears by Debbie Bliss which includes 25 designs for knitted bears.

The bears are all knit with Rowan dk weight yarns from what I could tell, but I suppose you could size them up or down depending on whatever yarn you had.  Many of the actual bears look similar, although there is a garter stitch bear thrown in and a couple of colorwork bears too.  Many of the bears have little outfits, some quite elaborate!   

I haven't knit any of these up yet, so I can't vouch for the accuracy of the patterns or the ease of following them, but the bears are super cute and so are the outfits.  In fact, when I pulled out the book to write this up, Maddie asked if I'd knit her some of them.  I haven't looked at this book in a while, but Theresa's post today has gotten me thinking.  Bears and handspun may just be a great match!

Posted by Julie at 12:18 PM | Comments (1)

January 13, 2006

Wendy Knits

Last night I stayed up late finishing Wendy Knits by none other than our prolific knitblogging buddy -- Wendy!  I have to say that this is a knitting book unlike any other that I have read.  It's not a pattern book (although it contains 20 great patterns) and it's not a book of knitting tips (although it contains a ton of great knitting tips).  So what is it?  I would have to say that it's the story of a knitter. 

My favorite chapter may be the first chapter titled "I Knit, Therefore I Am."  What it really is, is the story of the genesis of Wendy the knitter.  We all have that story -- the tale of how the wool and needles called us and I find that fascinating. 

The following chapters cover different aspects of Wendy's knitting life -- everything from how she got started blogging to what it means to be a fiber snob to knitting for charity.  Some things may be well known to loyal readers such as myself and some will be new, but everything is interesting and much is sprinkled with useful tips.  Almost an entire chapter is devoted to needles (and other tools) and their storage!

The patterns may be recognizable to her readers too.  We have seen the beautiful "chocolate mint chip" sweater take shape, and now here is the pattern!  (Made with Koigu -- drool. . .)  Wendy's gorgeous Grape Arbor Shawl is included too.  In fact, projects range from the easiest of all -- a garter stitch dishcloth -- to more complicate lace, cables and colorwork.  There is truly something for everyone here.

And one final note.  I have to tell you that I loved the final chapter on spinning.  I'm not sure why.  Maybe it's because that's where I'm at right now in my fiber journey -- discovering the joy of turning fiber into yarn -- but I found her enthusiasm for this subject was really apparent. 

Posted by Julie at 1:07 PM | Comments (2)