Wednesday 5 October 2016

Geo Knits

It's only the past few years that I've started knitting again, I learnt to knit as a very small child but stopped in my teens and then didn't pick my needles up again for over twenty years. I used to make all sorts of things when I was young, trying out various patterns, designs and techniques. I'm not so adventurous these days and I'm quite nervous to try anything new, especially where colour changing is concerned, that's why I'm such a fan of variegated and self-striping yarn. I was therefore very interested when asked to review Geo Knits by Mary Jane Mucklestone, 10 Lessons and Projects For Knitting Stripes, Chevrons, Triangles, Polka Dots and More.


I really like how this book takes you on a journey though each geometric design, starting off right at the very beginning with Garter Stitch Stripes.


It then builds on what you've learnt by using other stitches to create the designs as well as introducing more advanced techniques and designs.


The ten lessons in the book include an introduction to the technique, an inspiration board which shows some of the projects you could attempt with that particular technique, the lesson itself and the pattern to create a project using that new skill.


There's also lots of hints, tips and information along the way, how to knit neat stripes, raglan shaping and steeking among others.


Chapter 2 is Basic Techniques. Included in this chapter is information on choosing tools, yarn, and one of the things that many people have trouble with, colour.


The book really is for the very beginner though there's plenty here that I can certainly learn so I think it would also interest those knitters who are past the basics too. It covers tension and how to read charts and even tells you how to cast on and off as well as showing how to knit the basic stitches.


Patterns are provided for projects which include the Garter Ridge Mobius Cowl, Chunky Stocking Striped Beanie, Triangular Garter Stitch Shawl, Dotted Mitts and Super Chunky Stocking Stitch Circle Rug. There really is something for everyone.


Geo Knits by Mary Jane Mucklestone is published by Apple Press and retails at £12.99. It can be purchased direct from Quarto. I received a copy of this book to review, however, all opinions expressed are my own.

38 comments:

  1. Now those pictures really make me wish I could knit!

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    1. You'll have to learn. I've really got back in to knitting and I'm thoroughly enjoying it.

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  2. I'm not very confident with colour change either but that book does look good, i like the look of the cowl on the cover and those spotted gloves.

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    1. There's some nice projects in the book, sure to get you putting the techniques you learn to good use.

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  3. The dotty hand/wrist warmers look so cosy. As an inexperienced knitter I may just get myself a copy of this book. X

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    1. They're fabulous, aren't they. I'm not used to knitting with colour in this way so I'm hoping that the book will help me get to grips with it.

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  4. Like you I've been a knitter since I was young, but since I've taught myself to crochet, I think I prefer it as the results show quicker. Interesting book with some lovely designs xx

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    1. Crochet definitely works up quicker. I'm a much newer crocheter than knitter and I'm pleased that I can now do both.

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  5. I think you will embark on your new voyage of knitting again. ( ◠‿◠ )

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    1. I'm thoroughly enjoying my knitting adventures again, I find it very relaxing.

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  6. I think I may try this book out - I'm just knitting up my first stranded knitting project, a Minecraft hat for my son for Christmas, and it's turning out amazing. I'm past the colourwork section and it's just straight knitting to the finish now, but I so enjoyed doing the colour portion that I'm now looking for some more to add to my queue.

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    1. Well done, it's great when you try a new technique and it works out well. I must admit that I'm quite nervous trying new things these days but I'm hoping this book will help. I'm sure your son will love his Minecraft hat and he'll get plenty of chance to put it to good use with the temperatures you get over there. It shouldn't take you long to finish it now that you're over the colourwork section.

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  7. Whilst I can knit, I prefer the rapid growth of crochet. However those polka dots may make me change my mind and give them a go.

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    1. They're great, aren't they. I seem to go in fits and starts with knitting and crochet, at one time I favour one and then another I favour the other. I'm in a knitting mood at the moment.

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  8. Looks like a good reference book, I have something similar and refer to it time and time again. I hope you'll be having a go at those spotty mittens :)

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    1. I think I'd have to attempt something a bit easier first. I'm past the garter stitch stripe phase but not quite so far on as those spotty mittens.

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  9. I love to knit but hate sewing it together. I have some wool I must get something finished.

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    1. I'm exactly the same, I think that's why I love knitting socks, there's no seaming at all when you knit in the round.

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  10. I think those 'Dotted Mitts' look colourful and fun!
    I'm sure those who are into knitting, crafts etc will find this so useful.

    All the best Jan

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    1. They do, I think I'll have to give them a go when I get a bit better at colourwork.

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  11. It looks brilliant and I envy anyone who can do that sort of thing. I'd get too tied up in the wool for sure!

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    1. Ha ha, I know what you mean. I'm a bit worried about that sort of thing myself.

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  12. I used to sew when I was a kid, I made all sorts, even my dolls clothes, I could knit a little then too, very simple stuff mind!This looks the perfect book for me, maybe I'll give knitting a go while I'm laid up after my opp.....I'm also looking to stockpile books so any ideas would be welcome!xxx

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    1. I've never been a sewer but I was a much more confident knitter when I was younger than I am now. The recuperation time after your op is perfect for having a go at all those things you've been putting off because of lack of time. A book I've read recently which I'd definitely recommend is Somewhere Inside of Happy by Anna McPartlin, very sad but a really good read.

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  13. IT looks like a wonderful book.
    Meredith

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    1. It's great for anyone just starting out on colourwork, it takes you right through from simple garter stitch stripes up to more complicated techniques.

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  14. I'm a late starter with the knitting lark. Looks a good book, might put it on my chrimbly wishlist!

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    1. I like the fact that it's got lessons in it starting from the basic and working through to more difficult techniques. I'm somewhere in the middle so there's certainly plenty that I can learn from it.

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  15. Archie's blanket looks lovely. My Arnie would love one. I love the crafters socks too. Very colourful.

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    1. Thank you. I made Archie's blanket quite a while ago now and it's still in use, it keeps him nice and cosy.

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  16. Sorry I meant crofters socks. My I pad seems to keep changing words. It's trying to work out what I'm saying before I've finished writing. Very annoying for a machine to keep taking over :)

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    1. I think Crafters Socks is a much nicer name for them. I think that's the way of the world now, the machines are making a takeover bid.

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  17. What an interesting assortment of patterns. I can't even begin to work out how you would knit polka dots. The scarf is fab, reminds me of a spiders web, in a good way!
    Lisa x

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    1. I can see the spider's web now you mention it. I like the polka dots, I'll definitely have to give them a go at some point.

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  18. It's looks like a great book with some wonderful patterns. I like the polka dots! Pat

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    1. I think it's a book which will certainly help me get the hang of colourwork. I'd like to have a go at the polka dots eventually.

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  19. I'm not confident with colour changes, always seem to get a hole! Great book you were given to review.

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    1. I'm sure the book will help me become more confident with colourwork.

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