Men in Knits

lots of extra 'fabric' under the arms? check. totally unfitted? check. check. lack of ribbing on the bottom? check. edges designed to roll? check. everything I hate about modern knitting patterns for sweaters? check.

I have not knit for 25 years, and certainly never did anything like arans in my whole life, but have been able to make the most fantastic pullovers and cardigans for my boyfriend as a result, ones he not only wears, but proudly brags about (and so he should, the Debbie Bliss Cashmerino I use does NOT come cheap!!)At the same time, though, if you are going to take the trouble to do these lovely designs, go for the best yet most practical yarn you can afford. The patterns like the one on the front of the book knit up really well and swiftly if you use your markers and good wool, and don't go for anything too fussy that a guy will balk at-the texture and pattern really does all the work for you to make it gorgeous. I have made sweaters in black, navy, mid blue, charcoal gray, regular gray, and the traditional Irish oatmeal since I bought the book last year. The cardigans and pullovers also are very similar in patterns, strategy, like the diamonds, so once you get the pattern into your head, don't stop, go for another sweater. The fit is perfect, the instructions clear, for the most part, if you make sure you read the whole thing through before you start the pattern, and make notes to yourself as you go. Also, I strongly recommend photocopying the pattern several times per panel of the sweater or sleeve, to use as scratch paper, because they are repeating patterns based over like 30 rows or so. With the copies, you can just cross off one row so you don't get lost in the pattern. For the more complicated aran and color work ones, you can even cross them off one stitch at a time if need be. One other recommendation, if you are going to invest this kind of time and money to create a fab sweater like the ones in this book, if you can find a knit store that will help you finish off the garment professionally, by all means do so. It is really the difference between handmade and exquisite, or homemade and kind of silly. The chart at the front, what is your guys style, and match it to the pattern, is really the best part of the book! Now I have to knit for my step-dad and brother, they have been so wowed by the sweaters they've seen me making! Enjoy!

Men in Knits has clearly written, well-photographed patterns that are up-to-date without sacrificing classic style - the sweater you make him won't be out-of-date before you're finished knitting it! The variety of textured knitting and other projects makes this a book that will continue to be valuable to a knitter as their skill level increases. Not only do *I* like nearly every pattern in this book, the Cabled Rib cardigan was the first pattern my husband saw out of all that I showed him (after saying "I want to knit you a sweater") that actually made him go "Ooooh! I would wear that." Very glad I have it in my library; it's a worthwhile investment.

My husband fits the late 40 age group and he would wear every single one of these sweaters. I also have a son who is 22 who would wear them. There is even a pattern in there should I get a grandson some day. I am finishing a sweater now but one of these is next for my husband. They are extremely updated from the rest of the patterns out there. They actually are better than the ready made choices. A page showing where to find the yarns is in the back which will prove helpful. I hate knitting books that do not include that as the sweaters are designed for the yarn and substitutions rarely work. This is a keeper. I hope the binding holds up as I plan on knitting a lot of these! Why don't they ever make knitting books on spiral binding?

This book has great patterns to please men of all types and sizes. I was tired of all the men's sweater books with crazy colors, expensive yarns, and complicated patterns. This one turned out to be perfect for me and my husband. We took the quiz at the beginning of the book, and found 5 patterns that he liked, and I plan to give the quiz to my brother, father, father-in-law, and brother-in-laws as well. The sweaters are gorgeous, yet easy to knit, and very affordable. I highly recommend this book. You won't be disappointed!

This book is innovative because it shows the knitter how to take the only successful approach when it comes to knitting for men- lots of planning and little impulse buying. So many of us choose a project we would like to knit, rather than one he would actually wear. Or we impulsively buy a fancy multi-colored yarn, or something on sale BEFORE we figure out what to make with it. Here are some helpful guidelines regarding style, fit, and individual preferences. There is also good marital advice!The sweaters are stylish, timeless, and classic. Anyone knows that making a sweater that is too colorful or trendy won't stand the test of time, especially when it comes to men. There are some designs that you'll want to steal for yourself! The patterns are easy enough for a new knitter, but hold enough interest if you are more experienced. Most of the patterns can be finished quickly. I think any guy in your life would be lucky to receive a gift such as this. It may even inspire him to pick up some needles!