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In Review
Nifty Knits for Kids: Fun Wearables
for Kids on the Go
by Catherine Ham
Reviewed By Marie Stroughter

Catherine Ham is one of my favorite designers and authors (see review of "25 Gorgeous Sweaters for the Brand New Knitter"). Her latest book, entitled "Nifty Knits for Kids," is devoted to patterns for children ages three and up.

The book contains twenty-two patterns, most of which are rated as “Easy” or “Intermediate.” Patterns for both boys and girls are evenly distributed throughout the book. The patterns include vests, hoodies, sweaters, tanks, scarves and hats. As with previous books, it is assumed that one has the requisite knitting skills, thus precious real-estate isn’t taken up with basics like how to knit, etc. Ms. Ham does discuss basic design theory, sizing, patterns and schematics. She firmly puts tools for customization into the hands of the knitters using the book. This philosophy is what makes her one of my favorite designers.

That said, I felt that some of the patterns in this book were dated due to the heavy usage of novelty yarns. In all fairness to the author, I think this was due in large part to the fact that Lion Brand sponsored the yarns used in the book. I have no problem with novelty yarns, except that they are slowly becoming less in vogue as those who joined the knitting revolution via scarf knitting have improved their skills and are moving onto other more advanced projects.

This problem is easily enough overcome by wisely substituting yarn, and the author has given ample room to do so by including the chapters referenced above on pattern customization.

With the dearth of patterns out there for older children, it’s definitely a book you will want to have on hand, however, most likely you’ll want to fiddle around with yarn choices to bring a few of the looks up-to-date.

Publisher: Lark Books
Price: $24.95
ISBN: 1-57990-851-9
111 pages

Marie Stroughter is Black Purl Magazine’s Managing Editor and an avid knitter and crocheter.
She serves as Manager of Education and Good Works for the upscale knitting studio,
Knitting Arts, in her native California, and also teaches there. She is enrolled in the Master Hand Knitting Program
offered by The Knitting Guild Association (TKGA), and was recently elected President of her local TKGA Guild.
In her spare time, she enjoys homeschooling her son (who also knits!); assisting with the work of the church
where her husband serves as minister; and of course, knitting!