Alterknits: Imaginative Projects and Creativity Exercises [With Notebook]

The more I look through this book the more I realize 2 things. 1. If you need the traditional, stick to a pattern, don't try anything new kind of knitting you will not enjoy this book. 2. If you like to be creative, but are timid with creating, this book will help you move out of your knitting comfort zone. Always wanted to try felting but were too afraid you'd "mess it up"? Try the felted sweater purse. Looking for something unique that you can change to fit your style? Try the chair cushion or the modern bustier. Have a princess in your life? Try the crepe paper crown. Best of all READ the exercises and maybe try a few "out of the bag" experiments! That is what this book is really about. Changing your view point just enough that you will be a kid with your knitting. Willing to try new stitches, styles or just create something adults may see as frivolous or silly. Ok, so maybe I wouldn't take the time and effort needed to knit the complete screen door, but I might try a window! And I LOVE the lace up wristlets/fingerless gloves....so think outside of the info on your yarn wrappers and give Alterknits a try!

Radford provides a great blend of of whimsical (but useful) projects with lovely and more classical pieces with a twist. She gives instructions on using alternate fibers (or in some cases non-fibers) to make attractive items. I love her projects that re-use or modify fiber and materials from old clothes. As an environmentalist, her methods of re-use really intrigued me. These project in particular merited a discussion of the book on my knitting blog (Confessions of a Yarn-oholic) because of their eco-friendliness. That said, this is not a book for people who want simple or easy projects. Many of her innovations require a person to be willing to fail several times before they master techniques, such as knitting with crepe paper. However, if you enjoy a challenge and want to try some truly innovative works this book is a great way to get your feet wet.

I love this book! It's a new favorite for me. I love that a lot of the projects are wintery and beautiful. The Menora Pillow is beautiful and the Santa Hat is adorable and made with a chunky yarn. I wish there was more than the one Solstice project, but the runner is nice. The garland and ornaments are unique and fun! The book contains a nice balance of advanced and beginner projects. The other nice thing is that the yarns used are high quality but not overly expensive. I've used many books that contain hard to find yarn that wind up being outrageous to make a project out of. This book is a happy medium so that you have a quality project without going broke. I think all in all they pulled off a unique collection with some projects that are very classic as well.

One of the reasons I love this book is its gorgeous presentation. Let's face it, at least 50% of a book's appeal is how it is photographed and laid out - this book gets an A from me. There are a few projects that are quite "Meh" (like the knitted crowns - though I think my daughter will love one) but the ideas are wonderful. It is worth a look. A small "notebook" is included inside the front cover, it is just knitter's graph paper but a cute idea even if I won't be using it. Knit a window/door screen with nylon thread? Why not? I also love the armchair cushion - I am inspired to find an old leather chair just to make that cushion. Another favorite is the little knitted "lanterns" meant for adding to a string of lights. Wrist warmers have been done to death, but here they are photographed on a model holding a guinea pig - I have to admit, I am charmed :^) A lot of luxury yarns and new ideas for knitting.

There are a lot of very new, modern knitting books coming out as of late and this is one of them. The approach is away from the ordinary - the knitting most of us grew up with in the 1960-1980's. This book has some great patterns with versatility and it also includes ideas which are following the popular "salvaging" trend - using up old knitted items in new ways. Very nice addition to any knitting book collection. Also, the book itself is pleasing to hold and look at. Very lushly designed. Comes with a notebook for your ideas in a pocket attached to the front cover.