Review of Color Style and Elements of Style

The book Color Style: Innovative to traditional, 17 inspired designs to knit by Pam Allen and Ann Budd, published by Interweave Press in 2008 is part of the Style Series. The Style series has books on folk, scarf, lace, bags and simple knitting. The books have a collection of new designs by several different designers followed by a glossary of techniques and terms.

Many knitters, when faced with knitting in color, will use the many hand-painted or variegated yarns available. The designers of those yarns have already chosen pleasing color combinations so the knitter cannot really go wrong. Instead of using multicolored yarns Color Style has a section called design notebook which discusses the many ways to use more than one color in your knitting. This one section demystifies intarsia, slip-stitch or mosaic, and Fairisle knitting. It clearly states the differences and similarities and examines how to create stripes, squares and other patterns to get the result you desire.

Finally, the book includes 17 patterns which put the different methods of color knitting to work. The patterns are a mix of classic and traditional and include sweaters, accessories and items for the home. Only you can tell if you need this book in your personal library, but it definitely deserves a look.

A different and unusual knitting book is Elements of Style-Knit and Crochet Jewelry with Wire, Fiber, Felt and Beads by Rosemary Hill published by Interweave Press in 2008. It is not a book for those who like to knit garments only, but if you like unique designs, interesting jewelry and want to take your knitting in a completely different direction this will be a book that appeals to you.

Working with wire will pose challenges I am sure, but throughout the book there are tip sidebars that help you with those challenges. The designs offered in the book are incredibly beautiful and intricate and they provide a variety of styles. There is not one theme running through the book, but multiple themes that showcase the talents of Ms. Hill.

If you are interested in creating jewelry and other accessories this may be the book for you.