Design It, Knit It: Babies
Knitters who want to consider doing their own design work will find no easier way to begin than with baby clothes. Bliss, whose patterns always have an elegant simplicity, writes in the introduction to this collection about her philosophy of design when it comes to babies: think about practical elements and “combine style and wearability.” How to accomplish these goals is detailed in chapter introductions to her projects. Although some of the advice seems obvious (don’t make baby clothes from scratchy yarns), her use of crisp visuals of swatches and techniques brings the concepts to life. And there are many tips knitters might not have thought of (“Babies don’t have much by way of thumbs . . . thumbless mitts are all they need”) and good ideas for sprucing up an everyday item such as a hat: add animal ears. The projects themselves—simple sweaters, blankets, caps, scarves, and booties—have much appeal. Information about different shapes and sizing will help the new designer. As always, Bliss’ photographs are appealing and sharp, but more views of an item would be helpful. --Ilene Cooper