No one can carry off the super-cute animal look quite as well as babies and toddlers. And I don’t think it’s ever too early in life to stand out from the crowd—just a little bit. That was the thinking behind the range of patterns in this book, which contains lots of straightforward designs for new and intermediate knitters, and some more challenging ideas for seasoned crafters.
The book is aimed at knitters who want to create something less run of the mill, either for their own little ones or to give as gifts. I’ve divided the book into three sections. So there are chapters full of clothes and accessories for babies and for toddlers. And there’s also a section with items to make for the nursery, including toys, pillows, and rugs.
For babies, you can choose from a frog onesie and matching hat, a gorgeous tiger or bumblebee outfit, and lots more besides. Or you may want to whip up my personal favorite item in the book, a pair of fluffy koala bootees.
For toddlers, there’s a striking zebra cardigan, all worked in garter stitch. Also, there are super-bulky bear and rabbit hats that knit up quickly and will definitely help keep out the winter chill. Or, if you’re pushed for time, I can thoroughly recommend the cat hairband, which I’m sure you’ll be able to finish in two or three evenings. If you’d prefer to create a toy or an item for the nursery, there are ideas for those as well. So choose from a charming bird mobile, a quirky aardvark, a whale pillow, or even a turtle rug for the nursery floor.
If you’re new to knitting, or picking up your needles again after a break, there are patterns that require nothing more than the knitting basics. Most of the hats, the mitts, and the swaddling blanket should all be well within your grasp. But if you want to try your hand at something more advanced, baby and toddlersized items are always a good place to start. I’ve included all the instructions you need within the book itself, but you will also be able to find my video tutorials on casting on and binding (casting) off and the basic stitches at www.youtube.com/CICOBooks.
If you can’t find the exact yarns I’ve used, don’t worry. But please choose a yarn of the same weight and with a similar fiber content. If you’re in doubt, ask at your knitting store or check out the website www.yarnsub.com.
I’ve loved working on this book and I hope you love making your own versions of the designs. If you have any problems, please contact me via my website, fionagoble.com, and I will do my best to help you out.
Fiona Goble
