Dec 09
Now here's something you don't see every day. There's a pirate doll in this book that looks an awful lot like the handsome star of the Hollywood blockbuster that takes place on the high seas, right down to his scruffy goatee and (knitted!) sword. You know the one. It would make a fun gift for anyone who loves this salty sea captain! With this book you can create 10 adorable fantasy characters (complete with wardrobe and accessories) including a witch, a wizard, a princess, Santa Claus and even a fiery flamenco dancer called Flamenka. Start with one of five basic doll shapes, then customize with facial features, hair and knitted bodices, skirts, pants, hats, jewelry and shoes.
* Crafter's Choice *
Summer 10
Whether you're a parent or a grandparent, or simply love knitting dolls and toys, this book has something for you. The book contains five main doll patterns, most with a fantasy theme, but cleverly uses just one basic body shape for all of them. Annette Hefford also shows how a simple change of yarn shades and accessories can vary the choice of designs even further, and she gives advice on adding sparkling finishing touches using metallic thread, crystals and beads. The attention to detail in the dolls' outfits is truly delightful and any of these projects would make a rewarding challenge for intermediate to more experienced knitters.
* Simply Knitting *
Jan 10
The title says it all - you can knit a whole roomful of 18 (45cm) dolls all with distinct personalities and then make up some of your own. Never be stuck for ideas for loveable gifts and sales of work again! There are five basic dolls in here, as well as five variations and lots of ideas for customizing them further. They all have the same basic body, but in the chapters devoted to each doll there are plenty of garments and accessories to alter and adapt by using different yarn colors. This is not a book on how to knit, but a book of patterns for a knitter of intermediate or higher experience who knows a decent repertoire of stitches and other knitting know-how. Two things stand out for me that I particularly like about this book: one is the fact that virtually everything is knitted with ubiquitous double knit/light worsted yarns and the other is the way each doll has a personality. The author describes them and what they like to do and wear so it is easy to think of them as individuals even before you start to make them. The book is illustrated with lots of large format photographs of dressed dolls and each item, although again you won't find making up diagrams or staged projects with step-by-step pictures. If I have a favorite it has to be either Father Christmas or the pirate who bears a close resemblance to a certain cinema pirate. Hours of happy knitting await!
* Myshelf.com *
Feb 10
You'll use widely available equipment plus easy to source materials and embellishments, using yarns and basic knitting methods for all the projects. This gorgeous book gives detailed patterns for five dolls, each standing approcimately 45cm (18in) high. Each has a basic knitted body, which is then transformed into a witch, wizard, fairy, princess or pirate by adding hair, clothes and accessories. Instructions based on the same designs are also given for five more dolls. All the patterns can be adapted to stamp your own character on them. Suitable for both adults and children, the author's attention to detail is what really brings her designs to life. It's a beautiful book, which will provide pleasure for anyone who enjoys knitting.
* Machine Knitting Monthly *
Feb 10
Knitted Pirates, Princesses, Witches, Wizards and Fairies by Annette Hefford is a knitting book with a difference. This is ideal for knitters who are looking for knitting projects which are fun and challenging but which are not going to take an eternity, or a huge amount of costly yarn, to complete. This isn't a book for complete beginners, however it is perfect for knitters with a few basic skills. The small scale means that the projects are ideal for learning and practising new skills. Annette Hefford has created projects that can easily be adapted, allowing knitters the opportunity to create their own unique characters. This is a delightful and engaging book that is recommended for knitters looking for something a little different from their next project.
* Suite101.com *
Spring 10
Wow! Forget cuddly and cute, these are 18 inch high, soft, knitted dolls with attitude. Designed to be made in double knitting yarn, the patterns are for both the creatures and their clothes, including an array of undergarments, shoes, belts and even a tiara. Father Christmas is here along with nine other characters who, thanks to a standard body shape, can share a great variety of clothes and hair styles. As usual with Search Press, there are plenty of detailed colour photographs. The samples are re-made in light colours so that the details can be seen in the instruction pictures. 112 pages of knitting for story-telling.
* SlipKnot *
