Any time is the right time to begin knitting or crocheting handmade gifts for the holidays. Here are three knitting and crochet books for gift-making that really stand out. These authors and designers showcase a mix of traditional and the more unusual, as well as both quick and more lengthy projects.
More Last-Minute Knitted Gifts: Options for Quick Projects
Author Joelle Hoverson teams up with photographer Anna Williams for an encore performance. Their 2004 book, Last-Minute Knitted Gifts, presented knitters with a terrific array of gifts, categorized by completion time. This new book continues in that same style, but has new and different projects. The book allows the knitter to think, “How much time do I need to make this gift?”
The array of projects begins with those that require less than two hours’ completion time! For knitters with two to four hours, progressing on up to eight or more hours, there are numerous patterns ranging in skill level. One pattern from this book is included in a recent blog from the publisher.
Photos of various finishing techniques are included at the end, along with some terrific suggestions for creatively wrapping handmade gifts. These clever and attractive suggestions for packaging will make any handmade gift extra special.
The projects are not rated for difficulty, and knowledge of knitting is assumed.
Knitting at Home: 60 Classics from Ella Rae Designs
Noted Australian author and designer Leanne Prouse offers a collection of warm and wonderful designs that will make heart-warming gifts on any continent. Never mind that the photographs, by what just might be the most talented knitting photography team on the planet, make the book an absolutely beautiful volume.
The collection of knitting classics is categorized by type. Thus, the reader finds chapters for children’s items, kitchen items, weekend items, and more. Projects are not rated for skill level, and the book is targeted to those who know knitting, Prouse even includes a couple of crochet projects.
This book is not only a great buy for a knitter planning to make gifts; it’s a can’t-fail choice as a gift for a knitter!
Gifted: Lovely Little Things to Knit and Crochet
Well-known Canadian knitting designer, Mags Kandis, brings us this gem of a book. Patterns for charming, but somewhat hip, holiday gifts are presented in two sections, "Gifts for the Body" and "Gifts for the Soul."
The first section contains mainly wearable items, and there's a wide variety to be sure! Many designs will find favor with the younger set – teens, college students, and young adults. There are items that just might appeal to anyone however. From boot toppers, caps, baby items, and a granny square bag with a modern look, the gift maker will find fresh ideas. Most items are knitted, but crocheted items and felted projects are here too.
"Gifts for the Soul" includes ideas for some kitchen items and keepsake items, as well as items for computer users and crafters. Throughout, Kandis has interspersed a few extras, such as recipes and suggestions for making gifts special. Her crocheted flowers are certainly beautiful, and many of her designs are embellished with flowers, beads, or embroidery.
Some patterns from both sections are highlighted in this video on Interweave's website.
Projects are not rated for level of difficulty and knowledge of knitting and crochet is assumed. Book includes a glossary with illustrations.
Start Planning for Gift Giving
With so many great ideas available, there is bound to be a solution even for the most difficult person on any gift list!
Sources:
- Gifted: Lovely Little Things to Knit and Crochet by Mags Kandis (July 27, 2010, ISBN 1596681780) is available from Interweave Press in paperback for $24.95.
- Knitting at Home: 60 Classics from Ella Rae Designs by Leanne Prouse (October 5, 2010k ISBN 1933027991) is available in hardback from Sixth & Spring Books at $24.95.
- More Last-Minute Knitted Gifts by Joelle Hoverson (September 10, 2010, ISBN 1584798602) is available from STC Craft in hardback for $27.50.
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