Knitting Little Luxuries: Beautiful Accessories to Knit

Feb 08

Nobody truly knits for necessity these days. For the twenty-first century knitter it actually is a form of pleasure and relaxation, something to be enjoyed and savoured rather than a chore. This new book from Louisa Harding taps into this concept with a book packed with luxurious and indulgent patterns to keep hands, minds and yearnings for fine fibres satisfied! The patterns are presented in four themed sections. The first is for quirky and eclectic accessories that focus on embellishement and decoration with simple knits enhanced by additions. The second section highlights the use of elegant cables to create stylish items full of texture. After this comes a collection of items that scream girliness with ribbons, fluffiness and lace stitches. The final section contrasts beautifully with bold and bright traditional Fair Isle patterns that brings the traditional fishing knitting bang up to date. The items in the book range from delicate scarves to a bold cable tunic so not everything is necessarily 'little' as the title suggests. There are lots of wraps and mittens, purses and hats, with a couple of lovely bags too. All the designs are knitted with one of Louisa Harding's gorgeous yarns so whichever design you choose, you are sure to love the knitting just as much, if not more, than the wearing of it.

Jan 08

Don't be surprised if you find yourself humming I Enjoy Being a Girl as you flip through Harding's latest collection. A pretty lilt, epitomized by the cover's embroidered herring-bone handbag, animates each of these 21 small-scale indulgences - things don't get any larger than a diagonally cabled tabard and romantic flyaway cardigan. A few of her selections have a vintage feel (a bathing-beauty beret anchored jauntily by a picot-tipped bow band); all have a dainty strength (an angora lace cravat holds firm with a mother-of-pearl buttoned rosette). In a handful of instances, Harding shifts color schemes and fibers, showing off the patterns' (and her yarn line's) virtuosic versatility.

Feb 08

Through her love of hand knitting, knitwear designer Louisa Harding arrived at this book offering a new collection of knitted gifts, all honouring traditional knitting and all infused with a luxurious, contemporary spirit. Divided into four chapters ranging from quirky, modern, feminine and traditional there will be a style and pattern here for everyone. Most designs are quick and easy to make, using minimal amounts of yarn and cater for all levels. Choose from funky striped cloche hats, fingerless mittens with lace edging, bags, wraps and other delights perfect for people looking for gorgeous gifts to knit. Instructions include ideas on how to personalise and customise your project. How very Louisa.