Knitted Shawls, Stoles & Scarves
by Nancie M. Wiseman The title does not begin to describe the 20 creative designs that abound in full color throughout this book. Although instructions are for knitting, those who know how to convert knit patterns to crochet can crochet these designs. Those who enjoy inspiration of others will find many exciting concepts of layout and style. Terms and abbreviations, basic instructions and illustrations for knitting are included. If you do not know how to knit, I would advise learning basic knit stitches with a big hook and inexpensive yarn with simple projects before attempting larger and more complex patterns. Knitters will be overwhelmed with the choices of designs. I would call many of the patterns “shoulder-wear,” since the draping allows shawls and stoles to set as if they were sculpted onto the wearer. There is a complete breakdown to working a shawl or poncho knitting the whole piece sideways. You could change the basic pattern by choice of fiber and experimentation with different needles sizes. Diagonal, textured, slip stitches, cables, short rows, garter stitch squares, interlocking diamond, entrelac, and intarsia techniques are all included and projects are provided for each technique. What is most exciting to me is the diversity of shaping and texture to make superb creations. Textured Squares Scarf has dynamic movement throughout the piece; Interlocking Diamonds Scarf is worked in Autumn colors and I love the way the scarf lays when worn; Entrelac Stole is just too yummy in purples, soft blues and teals, with several points with tassels hanging down; and Smoke Intarsia Scarf has two textures working in one piece with easy stitches and directions. Knitted Shawls, Stoles & Scarves is an exciting and creative book, full of projects that will teach you new stitches and have delightful finished wearables. |
