Easy and Fun Knitting Patterns: A Review of Leisure Arts 60

Easy and Fun Knitting Patterns: A Review of Leisure Arts 60

Table of Contents:

1. Introduction
2. Overview of the Book
3. Disappointment with Michaels
4. The Book Purchase Experience
5. The Quality of the Pictures
6. The Pattern Selection
7. Examples of Putting the Sampler Together
8. The Option to Create Your Own Design
9. Challenges with Pattern Instructions
10. The Basic Stitch Instructions
11. Conclusion

Introduction

In this article, we will be reviewing a book called "60 Easy-to-Knit Patterns: Create Your Own Afghan" by Leisure Arts. The author will share their thoughts on the book and discuss various aspects such as the pattern selection, the quality of the pictures, and the overall experience of using the book. Whether you are an experienced knitter or a beginner, this review aims to provide valuable insights into the book and help you make an informed decision.

Overview of the Book

The book "60 Easy-to-Knit Patterns: Create Your Own Afghan" is a compilation of various knitting patterns that can be used to create beautiful afghans. It is published by Leisure Arts, a renowned company known for its high-quality patterns and designs. The book offers a wide range of patterns, allowing knitters to choose their favorites and customize their projects.

Disappointment with Michaels

One aspect that disappointed the author was the lack of variety in the book collection at Michaels, a popular crafting store. Considering Michaels' reputation for being a large crafting store, the author had expected a more extensive selection of books. However, the book "60 Easy-to-Knit Patterns: Create Your Own Afghan" was not available in their collection. This led the author to search for the book online and eventually purchase it on Amazon.

The Book Purchase Experience

Despite the disappointment at Michaels, the author was pleased with the purchase experience on Amazon. They appreciated the convenience of online shopping and the availability of the book without having to pay for shipping. However, the author also mentioned that it would have been helpful to have a chance to view more of the book's content before making the purchase, as only limited information and patterns were visible online.

The Quality of the Pictures

One notable aspect of the book is the high-quality pictures that accompany each pattern. The author expresses their delight in the vibrant and well-done pictures, as compared to other books they have worked with in the past. The use of color in the images makes it easier for knitters to visualize the final product and select their preferred patterns.

The Pattern Selection

With 60 patterns to choose from, the book provides a wide variety of options for knitters. Each pattern is numbered, making it easy to navigate and select the desired design. The author appreciates the fun and engaging pictures accompanying the patterns, which helped their daughters select their favorite designs. Currently, the author is working on Afghan number one and is excited to create a unique blanket.

Examples of Putting the Sampler Together

The book offers three different examples of how to put the sampler afghan together. It provides clear instructions and diagrams for each example, making it easier for knitters to follow along. The author likes how the book provides alternative options and shows different ways to showcase the knitted squares within the afghan.

The Option to Create Your Own Design

For those who prefer to be more creative and independent, the book also offers a blank diagram to create your own design. This feature allows knitters to have full control over the size and layout of their afghan. The author appreciates this flexibility and plans to experiment with their own unique design for their daughters' blankets.

Challenges with Pattern Instructions

While most patterns in the book are easy to understand, the author did encounter some difficulties with certain patterns. In particular, pattern number 34, called "Pinnacle Chevron," could have been written more clearly. However, the author believes that beginners would still find the majority of the patterns in the book accessible and easy to follow. Other knitters who have used patterns from Leisure Arts have reported positive experiences as well.

The Basic Stitch Instructions

One aspect that the author found lacking in the book was the absence of basic stitch instructions. Unlike other books they have used, which provided instructions on how to make a basic stitch, this book assumes prior knowledge of knitting techniques. While this might not be an issue for experienced knitters, those new to knitting or making afghans might find it more challenging to get started without these instructions.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the book "60 Easy-to-Knit Patterns: Create Your Own Afghan" by Leisure Arts offers a diverse selection of patterns for knitters to create beautiful afghans. Despite some shortcomings, such as the limited availability at Michaels and the absence of basic stitch instructions, the book still provides an enjoyable knitting experience. The high-quality pictures, the variety of patterns, and the opportunity to create unique designs make it a valuable resource for knitters of all skill levels.