
Member Reviews

This is an interesting pattern book for knitters. I agree with the author that knitting sweaters in one piece, instead of many pieces that are later patched together, is a much easier method. She's designed her pattern instructions so that a single pattern can be adapted for a child, a man or a woman, and in many styles. And, some of the patterns are given with 2 versions: cardigan or pullover. A section at the back of the book even tells how to add a turtleneck to a pattern. Very versatile. In particular, I was interested in the tunic patterns, which look very easy to make (I'm not the most experienced at knitting sweaters). I would definitely try some of these patterns!

The subject matter of this book would be of interest to my library crafting group. The charts of measurements enabling readers to customize the patterns for any size person is a selling point. In reader's advisory, I may want to make sure that the reader is comfortable with navigating the charts and understands that it is a book focused on specific techniques, not a collection several patterns. If you know anyone who knits items to sell, this would be an interesting book to study in order to custom make items.

I love to knit but hate to sew, so I generally restrict myself to knitting only seamless articles. This book features designs that do require some sewing (sleeves, underarms and sides) but it is much less than that required when you knit in pieces and then have to sew the whole thing together. This book is for sweaters only (both cardigans and pullovers) and covers four construction styles: raglan sleeves knitted top down, yoke style knitted top down, side to side knitting and knitted from bottom of the back over the shoulder down to bottom front. I've knitted a lot of top down sweaters and a few side to side but haven't tried the other method yet. Each chapter has a few patterns illustrating the relevant method, some of which I would definitely like to knit. However, this is primarily a guide book for one-piece knitting. There are charts that can be used for knitting sweaters in a wide range of sizes and using several yarn weights. You can choose your own stitches and design touches. This book will probably be most useful to people who like to design their own sweaters.
There is a pattern for a hood in case you want to add that to any of the sweaters. All lace patterns are fully written out rather than being charted, which I appreciate. The book demonstrates how to cast on stitches, make buttonholes and knit neckbands but beginning knitters would certainly need another reference book.
I received a free pdf copy of the book from the publisher but I will probably buy a physical copy when it's published.

This book provides size guidelines/measurements and approximate yarn amounts for all sizes from a size 2 child to a woman’s 5X and a man’s XX. The top down raglan sweater is offered in all sizes using a table, and the basic raglan can be dressed up with a center cabled panel or with “lacy interest.” For the men, a color block option is offered. Also included: top down yoke sweaters, back-to-front styles, vests, cardigans, side-to-side sweaters, lace options, and even a shrug. A variety of necklines and sleeve options, buttonholes, pockets, and zipper insertion are shown as well. Colorful, clear illustrations compliment the text. Even with the plethora of free patterns offered online, this book is an excellent reference for both the budding knitwear designer, and anyone who likes the idea of knitting a sweater in one piece.

Thank you to Netgalley, the author and the Publishers for this review copy, given in exchange for an honest review.
I'm the first to admit I'm not a very good knitter, but I am a sucker for knitting books and flicking through adorable patterns. This one is no exception!! A lovely book with patterns and designs for one -piece knits. The instructions are clearly laid out and there are patterns for different sizes, with some of the patterns having children's, women's and men's guides. The pictures are clear, and there are good starting instructions for the not as advanced at the beginning of the book. Some of the designs are a bit 'plain' but most of them are nice, modern patterns.
I wouldn't say this book is for beginners, but if you know how to knit then you would definitely be able to work your way through this book!