An enticing cover invites one to look at this modern range of childrens knitting patterns from birth to 6 years old. There are classical, modern and quirky knits which are mainly completed in the round. There is a full list of abbreviations and some of the techniques are explained but guidance might be needed on certain skills such as the magic loop.
The photography brings the patterns to life and if you are looking to knit a gift then I am sure you will find a garment or accessory that will be fun to make and add a touch of individuality to a childs wardrobe.
The patterns would be suitable for an experienced knitter.
Machine Knitting Monthly
Knit 21 timeless Nordic-style sweaters, rompers, dresses and tees for children aged from birth to six years. Each pattern includes charts and lovely photos to highlight the detail of the stunning designs.
Slipknot, December 2024
This book is appealing from the moment you first pick it up, with good use of photographs for illustration. It is by a Danish designer, and this is apparent in the designs, which are laid out beautifully in what is termed a 'look book' ahead of the pattern. Patterns are included for a range of garments including dresses, jumpers, cardigans, play suits, hats and skirts. There are patterns suitable for boys and girls, with suggestions included to adapt them, for example, there is a lacy cardigan titled 'Whirlwind', which the author suggests would not be out of place on a boy if an appropriate yarn is chosen. There is a useful list of abbreviations and a guide to the techniques used at the front of the book.
As the book is for children, there is a particularly useful guide to sizing (for example knitting a different width to length of a garment to fit the child) and checking tension and gauge before starting knitting. All of the items are knitted in wool or wool/alpaca/silk blends and the yarns are therefore relatively expensive, but they look beautiful and would be a special item when knitted. Most yarns used appear to be machine washable on a cool wash as washing items can be a concern with children. There is a useful guide to yarn substitutes for each pattern, but the suggested yarns mostly appear to be available online in the UK.
There is a range of plain knitted and patterned garments with the addition of beads to some, thus providing a good variety of challenge for the knitter. Where the garment includes a stitch or colour pattern these are charted with clear good-sized charts. Instructions are included for a range of sizes, up to 6 years in most cases.
I would recommend this book if you are considering knitting special items for a child. A knowledge of basic stitches and techniques would be useful, but relative beginners could tackle some of these patterns.
