I have been taking a little down time lately, winding down so that I can get some rest in over the winter. Its getting soooooo cold and wet were living by the fire in the evenings, and Jon has moved into my craft room so we can both enjoy the open fire!!
I have been making time to knit and crochet, getting inspired has been really important! I have been going through my books and pouring over beautiful pages with gorgeous patterns,
Itching to get making again.
I realised that I always need to feel inspired, and books have always made me feel like craft time was an indulgence. Looking over the pages, thinking if possibilities. I love books! I always read, so I thought it may be good to post reviews of some of them, because you can never really tell what books are like if your buying off the internet.
So, this book has really got me back into the knitting swing. Its a beautiful book full off quirky takes on regular things. I very much enjoy the photography which really allows you to see how knitting can really enhance your experience with everyday objects.
This book captured me as its not just full of patterns, Jane also shares with you her journey of discovery, and how she re discovered her interest in knitting and how she too, was inspired by a book.
The philosophy of this book is about 'gentle' knitting.
"'Its about the gentle enjoyment of yarns you like in colours that make you happy, knitting for pleasure, for relaxation, for the therapeutic rhythms that induce a sense of ease an wellbeing."
Throughout the book, Jane introduces each project by recalling how she was inspired to make them. Its such a wonderful insight into a makers thoughts.
There are no usual knitting instructions, which I personally prefer, it goes straight into introducing patters and a brief section about choosing yarn, which only makes the book more enjoyable read.
I particularly enjoy the use of colour throughout the book, every page is vibrant, with beautiful images on each page. It really helps you imagine what your possible colour ways could look like, giving a fresh twist on these otherwise usual items.
There are also patterns which I have not yet seen in many of the other books I own. This take on the apron was refreshing, and allows you to imagine how everyday items can have a refreshing feel.
There are many patterns that really focus on the luxury of the handmade. These gorgeous egg cosies are just one example of a pattern that enhances an everyday experience.
This book is a really fresh twist on knitting, I would highly recommend it if you have mastered the basics in knitting. There is a good mix of intermediate and challenging projects, I look forward to trying some if them out.
