Comforts of Home: Simple Knitted Accents

by Erika Knight

Knitters will love adding the rich, indulgent texture of knits to their bed, bath, or living-room decor with gorgeous accessories that complement any home style. From exquisite throws and pillows to a... This description may be from another edition of this product.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1564773353
• ISBN13: 9781564773357
• Release Date: January 2000
• Publisher: Martingale and Company
• Length: 128 Pages
• Weight: 1.40 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.6" x 7.1" x 7.2"

Customer Reviews

Gorgeous book with a "nature" twist

The emphasis of this book is clear - fantastic photography. From the front page to the back, it is filled with some of the most spectacular photographs of knitting I've ever seen. The intended emphasis of the book, though, is to feature simple, natural projects for the home - made from natural materials, mainly in earth tones, these items will not overwhelm any decorum. The book starts with a showcase of all different types of natural materials that can be used in knitting - yarns, twine, stones, buttons - all photographed in the most amazing way. There is a pretty short section explaining how to knit, but although the photographs are great, I don't think this is the book to pick up if you don't know how to knit at all. The projects include decorative cushions, throws, a felted sweater, slippers, a sisal wash mitt, mini bathrobe, a basket, and even a bathrug. Most projects are worked in garter, stockinette, or seed stitch, some with striping and bead decorations. These look like simple projects with an earthy slant that would thrill any "all-natural" lover. I think that this book is so beautiful and that it would also make a great gift.

Surprising!

I was really knocked out by the designs in this book. All of them are simply beautiful, from the basic throws and pillows, to a unique basket and bag for the bath. More than many other books, I think this one wants you to take the ideas of the patterns and run with them. You could make them exactly as they appear, or you could substitute yarns, stitches, needles, etc. for a totally new look. The best example of this approach may well be the rag rug. The possibilities are limitless, using a mixture of cotton and chenille yarns, hemp, fabric strips - whatever you have stashed away that strikes your fancy.While all of this 'go with the flow' uniqueness is fun, it would still be helpful to have a bit more of the traditional knitting book here. Gauges are given, but in the back of the book. The gauge really ought to be with each pattern, so you don't have to hunt for it and refer back. Also, several of the yarns used are no longer available or hard to find. Suggested substitutes (like Vogue Knitting's excellent books) might have been in order.The designs in this book all have a modern, yet classic, aesthetic that will fit well in just about anyone's home. You'll be making things for yourself, as well as for a much-loved gift. Think weddings and housewarmings, as well as the holidays.As a final note, the designs are presented in lush photographs and an accessible layout (apart from the gauge thing).

A great book

In addition to being inspiring, this book has the added benefit of not being incredibly intimidating. I would guess that most, if not all of the projects, could be completed by a beginner with great results. I really enjoy how the author has used relatively simple techniques, a mix of high-quality yarn and nontraditional materials, and an eye for color and texture to make the designs work. After buying the book I had to decide which project to begin first. Many of the items would make terrific gifts as well as home accents to keep.I would offer only one warning: the yarns the author uses and recommends for the designs are quite expensive. One throw pillow design I liked would require ... of the recommended yarn. While more experienced knitters will have no problem finding substitutes, it may be an issue for beginning knitters.

Knitting as decor rather than fashion? Why not!

This is a great book, beautifully photographed. The projects are extremely well chosen for variety (rug, wash cloth, pillows, even some garments like booties and a coat) You can get ideas for making decorative accents on your own by adapting the patterns. The colors are the very popular natural colors, which appeal to many people. However, if you love color, the natural colors in the book won't inhibit your imagination. Make them in rich greens, burgundys, violet and yellow--it's up to you.If you are a Francophone, this book is also translated into French (Tricot pour la Decoration.)

Beautiful book, Super-easy projects

I'm a beginning knitter and I LOVE this book. There are simple pillows, blankets, a wash mitt, a bag, a rag rug, and other home decor projects to knit in nice, natural colors. The patterns use lots of squares so the knitting is easy (not a lot of decreases or increases). There are a few intermediate projects, like a sweater, a "cuddle coat," and cute little booties. But the best thing are the photos--beautiful, close-up shots of luxurious yarns that make you want to pick up your needles and start right away!