New Knits On The Block

by Vickie Howell

Vickie Howell--the popular host of DIY network's Knitty Gritty--plus a dozen contributing designers have stepped out of the box with 25 super-original, funky playtime projects that are as much fun for parents to knit as they are for children to receive.Not another boring sweater! Vickie Howell, and her group of talented contributors, will make you the most popular parent on the block with the coolest projects for kids' stuff ever. These knits are gifts children will go nuts over, because they include a playful range of costumes and toys. Crafty moms and dads can create such enchanting items as a wizard's hat and princess crown; a super kid cape, mermaid dress up, pirate bath set, alien tooth fairy pillows, bowling ball and pins, and a tool set with pouch. Vickie includes estimations of how long each project will take to complete, along with tips for busy knitters and advice on special techniques, such as felting, tassel making, and edgings. Many of the designers have appeared on her show--but every item is a never-before-seen original.

Genres: Knitting, Crafts, Nonfiction

Paperback

First published October 1, 2005

Reviews

[Mckinley · Rating 2 out of 5]

Costumes and stuff for kids to play with.

[Ligaya · Rating 2 out of 5]

While most of the projects here are creative, I can't see spending all that knitting time on costumes that likely will be relegated to the bottom of the toy bin... Many of the pieces are clunkily designed, too. The Bejeweled Crown could be interestingly shaped but instead it's kinda lumpy. The Guitar Pillow is similarly lumpy with a barely recognizable guitar shape. I'm also disappointed that this book contains so many gender specific (dress) standards. Some people will like this book, but it's a pass for me.

[Lain · Rating 4 out of 5]

I couldn't believe it when I saw the price on this book. Similar books go for as much as twice what this one is listed at! And the patterns are whimsical, fun, creative... My daughter is dying for the mermaid outfit, and I've already knit the backpack for her. Some patterns (like the crowns) are a little silly (why knit them for oodles of money and time when you can simply make them out of paper and let your kids decorate them themselves?), but overall, this book provides a great assortment of fun, interesting choices.

[Judi · Rating 3 out of 5]

if all you want to do is knit some different designs for your kids and time and money are no problem, these are great. But for me the effort and cost (example the first project, a play fireman hat would cost almost $17 for the skein of pure wool yarn needed for felting, never mind the two additional yarns needed for the detail. $34 to knit a play hat?) is not worth it. Also, some of the projects lend themselves better to other needlers, like the cape would be a lot more easily sewn. If you want the challenge of knitting as many things as possible, ok.

[Thata · Rating 3 out of 5]

Vicky Howell is one of my favourite. Her projects is always "weird" or has a vicky touch. It's why I like her. In this book she share some of cuties projects for little girl and boys. Imagine in childern world

[Bunny · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really loved the patterns in here.

[Belknits · Rating 3 out of 5]

Lot's of cute kid's pattern - I love the mermaid costume. I've never actually made them, because I have twins and that would be way too much knitting. One day, when I have grandkids, I will!

[Mollie *scoutrmom* · Rating 3 out of 5]

This collection of toys and costumes seems pretty adorable if one is into that sort of thing, I thought most of them were not worth the effort.

[Thomasin Propson · Rating 3 out of 5]

I love the author's TV show, but these projects weren't for me or my littles. Which is ok!

[Wondra Vanian]

The projects in this book are cool but way above my current knitting ability.

[Tabitha · Rating 1 out of 5]

Ok. 1) Those costumes are offensive, and 2) No kid wants a knitted guitar in the age of Guitar Hero.