Gifts to Give
Of course any magazine geared to knitters is going to be full of designs to knit up for holiday gifts, and this one is no exception. The variety of knit projects presented here is nice: several scarves, mitts, socks and shawls are offered, as well as a man's sweater, a baby poncho with booties and a couple of sachets.
Many of these projects could be completed quickly and would make wonderful gifts for anyone on your list, or even for yourself. I've got my eye on the Backyard Leaves scarf pattern, which actually came from the Interweave Press book Scarf Style as an early Christmas present for myself.
If you don't want to knit garments, check out the cute felted pears featured on the cover of the magazine. These little beauties let you practice your color work and make a fine decoration that can be enjoyed throughout the fall and winter.
There are also stockings large and small for hanging by the chimney or on the tree. A cute felted bag would make the perfect gift for someone who loves fashion, and crocheted slippers are a quick last-minute project for anyone on your list.
Gifts to Ask For
A roundup of knitting books new and classic and a section of "favorite things" are sure to add a few lines to your wish list. I love the Red Cross sock knitting kit and had completely forgotten about it until I saw it here. You can bet it's going on my list. There are also tons of great bags that will help you hold all your knitting notions in style.
At this time of year, make sure you spend some time looking at the advertisements in magazines like this, too. You're sure to find a few things you want to knit (for yourself or others) and some things you can't live without.
If all else fails, at least ask for some yarn so you can make some of the featured products for yourself!
Other Features
Don't miss the article on Knitting for Peace, based on a new book of the same name, that can help you find charities to donate knitted items to.
Finally, check out the section on ways to embellish finished knitted items. Embellishing is a great way to make otherwise plain knitted items a little fancier and to up the wow factor when you're giving a gift.
Bottom line, this little magazine is well worth the asking price. It will give you ideas for wonderful gifts, for yourself and others, and perhaps inspire you to try something new and different.
