Special Knits: 22 Gorgeous Handknits for Babies and Toddlers

by Debbie Bliss

Top knitwear designer Debbie Bliss presents a collection for newborns that will be cherished and handed down for years to come, from blankets and sweaters to hats and bootees, all using soft, snuggly yarns.

Genres: Knitting, Nonfiction, Crafts

128 pages, Hardcover

First published January 27, 2005

Reviews

[rabbitprincess · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lovely patterns. Will probably end up knitting the stuffed rabbit, if I do make anything from this book. I also liked the picot dress and the argyle cardigan, but I take forever to knit things, so I think I would save those for the next baby I plan to knit for, or do them after attempting a beginner-level garment.

One thing I did notice is that, while the patterns were cute, they seemed to be geared mostly to girls -- the vest, the bolero, the jackets all looked very feminine and pretty, but not really meant for boys. If there were any boys in the lot (and admittedly I can't really tell the difference between baby boys and baby girls at that young an age), they were shown with the unsized items such as the blanket, shawl and carrying bag. Still, I suppose the argyle cardigan and pullover could be made in more masculine colours...

But yes, if you know you're knitting for a girl, or you like some of the one-size-fits-all items in here, this book is a good choice.

[Carmine · Rating 3 out of 5]

I like Debbie Bliss, but there wasn't much in here that I would knit. It was pretty girl-centric (which is fine in my case since we know we're having a girl), but this one earns the "Liked it" rating entirely for the pattern on the cover- I LOVE this little ribbed jacket and want to make one in every color.

[Lain · Rating 5 out of 5]

Debbie Bliss has done it again! There is not a single pattern in this book that I don't want to knit. Gorgeous photography, straightforward instructions, what more could a knitter ask for? A great addition to your library.

[Lauren · Rating 4 out of 5]

Debbie Bliss really knows how to craft the baby and children knitting patterns - several of the knits in this book elicited full-blown "awwws" from me. Adorable patterns and I am hoping to make several of them for my niece!

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

Most of the patterns in this book are only suitable for little girls. I'm looking for something for my grandson. The photos are very artistic, but they sometimes fail to show enough of the project so you can decide if you like it or not. I may knit the bunny toy.

[Jen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lots of great knits for special babies (and toddlers). I knit a shrug for my daughter to cover her easter dress that she nearly wore out! My first handknit that was nearly loved to death.

[Tina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Can you really "read" knitting books? :)

[Leanne · Rating 4 out of 5]

You can never, ever go wrong with a Debbie Bliss book.

[Laurie Bartee · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another goody by Debbie Bliss.

[Andrea · Rating 3 out of 5]

These projects I can manage, even as a beginner. I do wish there would be more pictures step by step, though.

[Michelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

What's not to love about Debbie Bliss?

[Carol · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good patterns for toddlers. the cover sweater is especially good, but you have to pick up a lot of stitches for the front ribbing. My other favorites are the blanket and beaded sweater.

[Brenda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Would like to buy this.

[Peggy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful patterns--I want to knit every single one!

[Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lovely patterns.