Millions of thoroughly modern knitters, including a growing number under the age of thirty-five, will applaud the fresh interpretations featured in "Simple Knits with a Twist</I>, Erika Knight's latest collection of creative designs. By matching classic stitches with other craft techniques and incorporating innovative materials like fine wire, beads, and recycled plastic with conventional yarns, Knight takes knitting beyond its traditional boundaries into new, inspired realms. Easy yet inventive, her projects bring a hip, artsy edge to items once deemed homespun. The twenty projects, which include wire napkin rings, an Aran armchair cover, a patchwork throw, and a beaded silk scarf, teach knitters how to add such creative skills as felting, patchwork, and beading to their repertoires. Each project is featured in a full-page color photo and in close-up how-to shots. For beginners with contemporary tastes and accomplished knitters interested in expanding their range, "Simple Knits with a Twist</I> presents a world of possibilities.

"Knight's brand of knitting and purling only vaguely resembles the art form practiced by millions of grandmothers. Although she uses needles, in her projects yarn is a variable; it's often replaced by such diverse materials as ribbon, wire, strips of plastic and gauze. And the patterns that do use yarn go way beyond the usual patchwork scarves and lumpy sweaters. The 20 patterns here range from simple to truly byzantine. Beginners might try their hand at the Woven Woolen Rug, which employs remnants of yarn and calls for a basic stockinette stitch. The Aran Armchair Cover, on the other hand, will probably intimidate newcomers, as it requires knowledge of the reverse stockinette stitch, seed stitch, raspberry stitch, twisted stitch, diamond panel and fat cable. To her credit, Knight (Simple Crochet; Simple Knits for Little Cherubs; etc.) does explain techniques up front and uses color photographs to demonstrate steps. If nothing else, her book will encourage knitters to think beyond hats and mittens, and consider using knitting techniques to create wall hangings, dog coats, wire bowls, napkin rings or boudoir slippers." Publishers Weekly (Copyright Reed Business Information, Inc.)

ERIKA KNIGHT is the author of Simple Crochet, Simple Knits for Little Cherubs, Simple Knits for Cherished Babies, and Comforts of Home. In addition to writing books, she works as a fashion and design consultant. She lives in Brighton, England.