'The best books, reviewed with insight and charm, but without compromise.'
- author Jackie French

Thursday 19 January 2012

Review: Knit One, Purl One

In the style of One Stitch at a Time, and one of the first books to come out of the Black Dog Books/Walker Books merger, this adorable craft book is published in kit form, with a removable instruction book and 'knitting box' filled with all the ingredients needed to make some pretty cute friends.

Spiral bound for ease-of-use, the book introduces knitting techniques to youngsters, and offers up info on the equipment a true toy-creator needs - items such as knitting needles, scissors, crochet hooks and yarn needles.
Diagrams of knitting styles clearly show the varying types, and helpful tips such as picking up that dreaded dropped stitch, joining the pieces, and stuffing your new friend, are laid out in a clean and accessible format.

Then there's the bunny. So so cute - with clear instructions and details diagrams on adding final details like facial features. There's even an opportunity to turn your rabbit into a frog (hey, presto!), panda, monkey or lion, with patterns for added accessories such as a lion's cape, monkey's tail and adorable rabbit hat, complete with ear holes.

The final 'chapter' to the instruction book is a fabulously fun mix and match section, where kids can flip page-thirds to create their own animal hybrid, and learn cool ways to add extra accessories - like leg warmers, socks, crowns, bead necklaces and pom pom ear muffs.

Perfection for the crafty type and bliss for the school holidays.

Title: Knit One, Purl One
Author: Zoe Halstead
Illustrator: Rachel Borello
Publisher: Walker Books, $24.95 RRP 
Publication Date: 1 December 2011
Format: Hard cover boxed set
ISBN:  9781921720710
For ages: 7+
Type: Non-Fiction, Craft Book