Customer Reviews

Baby Style: Home Accessories and Irresistible Knitwear Designs for 0-3 Year Olds

5 star:		(3)
4 star:		(3)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(1)

 

 

I think Ms. Bliss has run out of ideas. I've been disappointed with the last several books and this is just more of the same. There are a few new patterns (e.g., a little jumper and a bathrobe), but most are just recycled versions of the same old thing. Look through the books you already have. There was nothing new in this book that I would make.

Let me start with a disclaimer: I love Debbie Bliss patterns for children and babies, and feel she is one of the best young designers out there today. So I guess you could say I'm predisposed to like whatever her latest book is. "Baby Style" contains many of her trademark knitted patterns that will please her diehard fans: sweaters, booties, caps, stuffed animals. While there was some feeling of repetition from her earlier books, I felt there were enough fresh ideas to make this book worth owning. I have knit from this book and had no problem with the patterns. My criticisms: (1) there are some ridiculous patterns interspersed with the good ones, like a knitted hot water bottle cover, and coat hanger covers done in a tiny gauge. Who has the time or inclination for such pointless knittery? (2) as usual, the trendy photography doesn't give you a clear look at the finished items. Close-ups of the collar or yarn are nice, but how about including a photo that would be helpful for a knitter in gauging fit or getting an overall sense of how an item looks? (3) While measurements are given at the beginning of the patterns, there are no diagrams. I find the diagrams helpful in estimating size and substituting yarns at different gauges. (4) While I am also a big fan of Rowan and Jaeger yarns, be forewarned that using the listed yarns may put quite a dent in your knitting budget (e.g., Rowan Wool-Cotton is a gorgeous yarn, but at 8 bucks and change per skein, the price of even a kid's sweater is steep). Best to be prepared to substitute if cost is an issue.

I think this is a great book to add to any knitter's library. There is a good selection of simple patterns and then some more complicated for people looking for color kniting or something more chalenging. There are accesories in this book that make wonderful gift ideas. The padded hanger covers are darling and if sized up would be great for hanging adult sweaters, also. So, if you look there's something for everyone as long as you're willing to re-write and alter patterns.

The only downside is there are no diagrams to show finished measurements.

I agree that the lack of diagrams and measurements make for some moments of head-scratching, but overall, I think it's a decent books. The designs are not your average baby sweater...there are some excellent pieces that are sure to become treasured hand-me-downs. The patterns call for premium yarns, but if you're going to go to all the trouble of making something like the frilled edge crossover sweater (my favourite), why not indulge and use a high quality yarn?

I doubt that I would use the book for all baby shower presents. But when there's somebody special to knit for - a friend, maybe, or a family member, or even your own child - it's nice to be able to make up something that's guaranteed not to be found in a retail store.

i found this book at the library, and after my maximum renewal time i had to go buy it myself. as a beginner+ knitter, i found many projects in here that i a) could make b) *wanted* to make and c) enjoyed making! it's nice to see children's wear that isn't frou-frou, but has interesting detailing. debbie bliss has inspired me to continue knitting (when i would have otherwise put it down for lost!) i highly suggest this book to anyone, if not for the patterns, for the beautiful photos.

I received this item as described in good condition. I was very pleased with the quick response in the mailing time. Very pleased with the transaction all together!

I was hesitant to buy this book after reading the other review.
I'm glad I didn't, this is a wonderful book, the hangers and hot water bottle cover are wonderful, as are the other patterns in this book.
She has not lost her inspirational touch!

Happy knitting!
Nanette of Fruitland, ID