This book ranks among my top 10 must-haves just for the number of patterns it offers, which range from the classic to the whimsical, the simple to the challenging. But be warned - this book is not about holding your hand as you knit along new frontiers. A bare three pages are dedicated to explaining abbreviations, techniques and yarn requirements. Rather, it is about making stuff – but what stuff! There are separate sections devoted to knits for her, for him, for the kiddoes and for accessories with something for knitters of every level. New knitters will like that basic-of-all-basics, the Sleeveless Tee (page 32) and those of us not afraid of a little cable needle will enjoy the ziggety-zaggetiness of the Entangled Cable Pullover (page 97). The men's section had me itching for some needles – not my usual reaction to most of today's designs for men. But featured here were things I could see single guys, my dad and my hairdresser all happily wearing. See especially the Blue Water Pullover (page 128) and the Triangle Pattern V-Neck (page 116 – where you can also check out the hot guy under the sweater). The children's section goes way beyond knits only a grandmother could love and had me wishing for a little one to knit for - some day. The last section, on accessories, is the shortest and the most disappointing, with a few too many ugly scarves and crazy hats (see the Earflap Hat on page 204!). But that section is too small and comes too late to detract from this excellent book's overall essential usefulness, attractiveness and downright coolness. And even cooler – K2Tog carries Classic Elite Yarns. Let's get busy! – Kimberly Ligocki

The Facts:

Number of Patterns: 100
*PPP Ratio: 25 cents!!!!
Level of Difficulty: - Easy to Experienced
Bottom line – Great book for knitters of all levels who like well-designed patterns that result in garments they'll wear for years.
* Price Per Pattern