Tag Archives: Lucinda Guy

Review: First Frost

Review: First Frost post image

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First, the facts:

Title: First Frost: Cozy Folk Knitting

Author: Lucinda Guy

Published by: Interweave Press, 2014

Pages: 127

Type: Scandinavian-inspired knitwear for the whole family.

Chapters:

1. Folk Colors
2. Folk Textures
3. Folk Traditions

KS: First Frost

The In-Depth Look:

I’ve always had a soft place in my heart for Scandinavian-themed knitwear. I blame my best friend for the start of it. Having a Norwegian mother, she always had the best hats, sweaters, and mittens in the winter. Their home had some of the most charming design accents, too. So it’s really no wonder that several of my first “real” knitting projects were Scandinavian-styled sweaters.

In the years since, I’ve branched out into other looks and techniques, but still … put a stranded colorwork snowflake on a handknit, and you’re going to get my attention.

Which is exactly what this book does.

The theme here is “folk” and not specifically “Scandinavia,” but in effect it’s much the same in this collection of lovely patterns. Sweaters, hats, home decor … even one of the cutest knitted squirrels I’ve ever seen. (Not to mention a gnome.) There’s something here for everyone and I loved almost all of these patterns.

Not that I’m surprised, considering how much I enjoyed her pair of Northern Knits books, which hit the same chord of inspired designs that reflected the Scandinavian appeal I like so much without slavishly sticking to the traditions rather than modernizing.

Really, there’s nothing here not to like.

Go get yourself a copy at Amazon.com or your local shop.

Want to see bigger pictures? Click here.

This review copy was kindly donated by Interweave Press. Thank you!

My Gush: Fun and charming and whimsical and warm.

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Review: Northern Knits Gifts

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First, the facts:

Title: Northern Knits Gifts: Thoughtful Projects Inspired by Folk Traditions

Author: Lucinda Guy

Published by: Interweave Press, 2012

Pages: 127

Type: Patterns

Chapters:

Not chapters so much as a listing of patterns

KS: Northern Knits Gifts

The In-Depth Look:

Like her earlier book, Northern Knits, this book takes its inspiration from the folk traditions of northern countries with strong knitting traditions. Only this time, it’s all about making gifts.

Things to wear like scarves, mittens, socks, slippers, hats–as well as a sweater or two. Also things for your house, like a blanket or a pillow or an (adorable) door stop. Even a doll.

Like before, the knitting techniques are varied–fair isle, twined knitting, lace. It makes for a wide range of possibilities if you’re looking for new techniques to try, or just to have something different to do.

I like this book. The designs are creative and attractive, with folk-style touches to make them special–these aren’t just any old pair of mittens for a holiday gift. They’re fun and reminiscent of the old classics, the old-world kind of styles that you don’t see much anymore and that aren’t exactly daily wear … unless the style is captured in a festive scarf or a hat for those cold winter days. Accessories that can add flair to an outfit. Gifts that are truly special, not just the same-old handknits. Because, sadly, there are people who don’t necessarily gift hand-knitted gifts the respect and admiration they deserve … but these? These patterns would make some really wonderful gifts. (Like that red-and-white twined scarf? If anybody wants to make me one, that would be really great.)

I really rather love this book. I bet you will, too. Be sure to take a look!

Want to see bigger pictures? Click here.

This review copy was kindly donated by . Thank you!

My Gush: A treat!

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