The Yarn Girls' Guide to Kid Knits: Patterns for Babies and Toddlers

Hip designs and simple patterns are hallmarks of the Yarn Girls stylethe very things that made their first book, The Yarn Girls Guide to Simple Knits, a smash hit with knitters of every stripe. Now Julie Carles and Jordana Jacobs return with a whole new collection of fast-knitting, colorful patterns, this time for the littlest members of the family.

Forget about baby-weight yarn and fussy patterns for sweaters that are quickly outgrown. Created in the Yarn Girls signature style, with fabulous yarns and big needles, these projects are perfect for new knitters who want to see their creations shape up quickly. And for experienced knitters, more advanced patterns explore changes in color and texture and allow for plenty of experimentation on a manageable, kid-sized scale. Patterns include a variety of pullovers and cardigans, plus hats, dresses, blankets, and even ponchos, all perfectly suited to babies and toddlers. Best of all, the sweater patterns are great for boys and girls, making this collection versatile enough to use again and again.

Many of the projects take just days to complete, and all are presented with easy-to-follow steps accompanied by beautiful photography. With straightforward, jargon-free instructions, plenty of personal knitting stories, and old-fashioned encouragement, success is a foregone conclusion. Never will kids look more adorable, or more comfortable, than in these smart, easy-to-make knits.

"Well-known among knitters as the owners of the Yarn Company store in Manhattan and the authors of The Yarn Girls' Guide to Simple Knits, Carles and Jacobs offer up another book marked by the cheerful, vibrant and easy style for which they're known. This time, they present patterns for pint-sized hats, dresses, sweaters and blankets that look as cozy and warm as the babies and toddlers modeling them. The fun of a Yarn Girls book lies in its bold, full-color photographs and irreverent manner, both of which are in full force here. After a brief, straightforward section describing the authors' chosen knitting techniques, the book launches into the patterns. Sweaters have names like 'Master of Her Own Domain' or 'Mary, Mary...whatcha Knitting?' and are presented in color schemes for both boys and girls. A clever bunting called 'Frustration is the Mother of Invention,' with knit-in holes for a car seat, is a particularly welcome innovation. Despite the clever titles and creations, the authors adhere to their motto-'We promise to keep it simple'-employing big needles and chunky yarns for designs that knit up fast. Although Carles and Jacobs offer many variations within this realm, many of the clothes appear similar, and intermediate or experienced knitters may grow bored with the repetitive style. Some knitters will be frustrated that the designs depend so heavily on exquisite yet expensive yarns that are available only at boutiques such as the authors' own; most, however, will be happy to find that these simple patterns can yield such stylish winter wear." Publishers Weekly (Copyright Reed Business Information, Inc.)

"The Yarn Girl's Guide to Kid Knits" takes baby clothes to a new level that's way beyond fussy booties. Included are tips on choosing yarns as well as information about enhancing basic designs with pom-poms and other charming touches.

Knitters have long loved to create clothing and other items for children. They still do, of course, but the Yarn Girls know that today's knitters don't want to see kids outgrow their knitted creations in less time than it took to make them! "The Yarn Girls' Guide to Kid Knits is for knitters who want to whip up stylish children's gear in a matter of days. The secret is using chunky yarns, big needles, and designs that avoid complicated cables and changes of color. Basic techniques are clearly explained and easy-to-follow patterns guide readers through 30 projects that include adorable sweaters and dresses, cozy blankets, and snug little hats; many of which feature two versions, one styled for boys and one for girls. With tips on choosing yarns and enhancing basic designs with pom-poms and other charming touches, "The Yarn Girts' Guide to Kid Knits takes baby clothes to a whole new level--way beyond fussy booties.

Inveterate knitters since college, Julie Carles and Jordana Jacobs left their respective careers in the medical and legal worlds to assume ownership of The Yarn Company, New York Citys landmark knitting store, in 1997. The store has become a destination for celebrities and locals alike, who come for the quickly sold-out classes, unrivaled yarn selection, customized knitting patternsand friendly conversation. The Yarn Company can be reached on the Web at www.theyarnco.com. Julie and Jordana live in New York City. They are the authors of The Yarn Girls Guide to Simple Knits.