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Saturday, October 17, 2009

Book Review: Haiku Knits

Haiku Knits by Tanya Alpert

I recently received a copy of Haiku Knits to review. It's a new knitting book scheduled to hit shelves October 20th. The book features 25 knitting patterns inspired by Japanese design. There's also a section of essential techniques which includes knitting stitches, the yarn weight system, knitting abbreviations, etc. The book is for knitters of all skill levels, beginner through advanced. Even though some of the patterns look very sophisticated, the patterns themselves are quite simple.

I personally liked the patterns in the book and would wear just about all the pieces. I like solids with a lot of texture and that's what you'll find in Haiku Knits (pictures below). What I did find lacking was information on techniques. Even though there is an "essential techniques" section in the book, I wish it included more. For example, there were no directions on how to block a garment even though some of the patterns call for this. Since this book is intended for knitters at all levels, I would have liked that technique included. That being said, overall the book is well written and has some exceptional patterns.

Below are some of my favorites from the book.

Lantern floating: softly felted top and skirt

Snowflake: lacy long-sleeve cozy

Hazy Moon: ethereal scarf

Here's what I'm working on, the half-moon rising two-color vest. Promise to show you when it's done.

7 comments:

SomedaysSarah said...

ooooh! I really like the etherel scarf!

Jen said...

oohhh... I'm in love with this book!! I'm gonna have to keep my eyes peeled for it :D

Alan Shelton said...

Hi, I stumbled across your blog and decided to try the Japanese curry recipe. It was delicious! It was by far the best dish I've ever made and maybe ever ate ( I may be biased because I made it).

Anyways, Thanks for the recipe. I've looked through your old posts and am going to try others!

zakkalife said...

Sarah,

The ethereal scarf is probably the easiest pattern in the book. It's all garter stitch.

Ayie said...

i can't do these things! I never learned how to knit..

*~kAy~* said...

I can't wait to see how your project turns out! <3

Anonymous said...

these looks sooo comfy!

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