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You don’t have to have kids of your own to love crafting for little ones. Not only are those tiny hats and sweaters and booties and toys just plain fun to make, but such quick little projects also provide the perfect opportunity to try out new stitches and techniques. And if you’re interested in trying something new, Comfort Knitting & Crochet: Babies & Toddlers is a great pick.
Innovative knitwear designer Norah Gaughan and the rest of the Berroco Design Team fill this 50-pattern collection with clever designs and unexpected constructions. Though they often have classic styling, these aren’t the same old plain-Jane hats and sweaters and booties; they’re bibs created in orange-like segments or blankets in the round or helmet-like color-block hats. If you’ve ever wanted to try cables or color work—or even some different stitch patterns—you’ll have plenty of opportunities here. You can even start small with the cabled Compass Cap, step up to a sweater or maybe a bunting, and work your way up to a big project like the diamond-cabled Terra Blanket.
If you happen to be skilled in both knitting and crocheting, you’re in luck. The patterns are the kind that will have you itching to pick up your needles—or a hook—and get started. Those who stick to one or the other, meanwhile, will be limited in their options. You might even find yourself feeling a little left out, like I did. I know a few crochet basics—enough to crochet a cute edging around a blanket—but I’m really just a knitter. After studying the gorgeous crocheted designs in this book, though, I’m tempted to pick up a hook and learn some more advanced techniques, just so I can make the Slice Cap or the Deanna Jumper or the funky High Fidoodlity Blanket.
Of course, I still have plenty of beautiful knitted options to choose from, too. There are basic designs like the adorable Clementine Jumper, as well as plenty of cool circular-knit blankets (I think I’ll be giving the ribbed Key Lime Blanket a try). There are color-block blankets and ruffled rompers and even a cardigan with an intarsia jet worked into the back. And the patterns are offered in a wide range of sizes, too (which is helpful for those of us who are so busy caring for a newborn that they might just need a couple of years to finish a project).
Since the designs often feature different techniques and unusual construction, some of the patterns may look a little intimidating—but that’s just because the patterns are written in detail, with charts and other illustrations where applicable. They might pose a bit of a challenge, but that’s the joy of making gifts for babies: before you know it, you’re done. You’ll have a cute (and impressive-looking) sweater or hat or jumper to give to your favorite little one, and you’ll have practiced a new technique in the process.
So if you’re looking for something out of the ordinary to knit or crochet for your favorite little person, look no further. Comfort Knitting & Crochet: Babies & Toddlers is sure to inspire you to try something new.
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