Book Review Friday

I realized I completely missed my second year blogiversary. It was June 2. I had intended to host my first contest and everything, but it sort of snuck up on me and I completely spaced. But I think I'm going to try and come up with something soon though. (Soon being a relative term, of course. It might be a couple more months.)

Anyway, I've recently acquired some new knitting books I'd like to share. I'll start with Charmed Knits by Alison Hansel. I like this book. It has tons of neat projects based on the Harry Potter books and movies including house scarves, sweaters, socks and mittens, Dobby socks, a stuffed Errol, a wizard robe and a couple of neat bags. A little something for all the HP knitting fans.

The next book is Fitted Knits. I bought this book after I had bought the Knitted Bodice pattern by Stefanie Japel. This book has some invaluable information on making patterns fit your own body. Basically, you should know your own measurements and know how to add or subtract decreases in the pattern to fit. Many of the patterns are knitted from the top down so you can actually try them on as you knit to see if you're going to get the right fit. While there are a couple of patterns in bulky yarn (which I've never had the desire to use), most seem to be in worsted weight yarn which I've actually been using quite a bit of lately. I really like the textured tunic which is on the cover and I'm thinking that the pink pima silk might end up being the Drop-Stitch lace tank. There are all sorts of sweaters, cardigans, vests and even an adorable dress and a really smart suit (neither of which I'll ever have an occasion to wear).

The last book is Knitting Lingerie Style from Joan McGowan-Michael. This is a cool book. I've loved JMM's designs for a while and have made the Shapely Tank and Bella, so I was excited when this book came out. I got it straight from White Lies, so it is autographed. This book does have a bit of actual lingerie in it - there is the one-piece wonder on the cover and a cute bra/panty set, but many of the designs are lingerie-inspired - lots of pretty tanks, camisoles and sweaters. Many of the designs I'd never wear without a camisole underneath, but they are very pretty, fitted and feminine designs and I'll probably be making some stuff from the book.

Anyway, that's my two cents on some of the new knitting books out there. What are your favorite new knitting books and which ones are you most looking forward to? There are lots of new cool ones coming out in the fall!