30 knit ponchos & capes

A poncho or cape gives ample opportunity to hone techniques and play with simple shaping without the pressure of getting a fit just right. This collection of 30 patterns provides just such a challenge for newer knitters and serves as a delightful collection for those familiar with lace and color work. For everything from a small, sturdy capelet in bulky-weight yarn to a drapey, whimsical lace number in fine weight, the styles, suggested colors, and patterns are diverse enough to suit any taste and are rated for difficulty. Yarns used are suggestions and emphasize gauge instead of matching yarn. Color charts are provided in full color, with pattern charts in black and white with symbols. For newer knitters still gaining proficiency with techniques, a final section includes useful step-by-step instructions. A solid purchase that is sure to satisfy in collections heavy on pattern books.--Heather Booth Copyright 2019 Booklist

Knitwear designer Maassen presents a beautiful collection of patterns capable of inspiring experienced and advanced knitters to take their work to new levels. She features 30 designs deploying lace, cables, colorwork, bell sleeves, and other design techniques that most will find challenging but rewarding. For the experienced knitter, this book is a treasure trove of appealing ideas for one of fashion's trendiest looks. Examples include intricate lacework in the Ava pattern, cable work for the "delicate and romantic" Mila, and Fair Isle work on the afghan-like Smilla requiring four colors, two different types of needles, and six buttons. Almost all of the patterns require circular or double-pointed needles, sometimes with several sets needed to complete one item. For example, the button-down Jaina cape requires three different sizes of circular needle, a cable needle, and a spare needle to complete the project. Others, such as the Melina and Luna, require multiple strands of different colored yarns knitted into intricate Fair Isle patterns. However, skilled knitters looking for a rewarding challenge will want to pick up this collection of runway-ready stylish garments. (Feb.) © Copyright PWxyz, LLC. All rights reserved.