Kaffe's Classics: 25 Favorite Knitting Patterns for Sweaters, Jackets, Vests and More

Showcases twenty-five previously uncollected patterns for sweaters, jackets, and vests, emphasizing a wide palette of color and designs inspired by ethnic decorative arts

Needlecrafters are crazy about Fassett. Such previous works as Glorious Knits ( LJ 1/86) and Glorious Color (Potter, dist. by Crown, 1988) established him as the foremost designer of knitwear and embroidery. His popularity comes from an inspired use of color and pattern that becomes an integral part of the garment's design. Most of his patterns are for experienced knitters, but even novices will be interested and inspired by his designs. With the exception of the popular Big Diamond Jacket from his first book, the patterns collected here have never appeared before. Highly recommended for textile, fashion, and needlecraft collections.
- Gayle A. Williamson, Fashion Inst. of Design & Merchandising, Los Angeles
Copyright 1993 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Although this is just as gorgeous as Fassett's previous knitting books, the author is guilty of a bit of recycling. These 25 patterns have appeared elsewhere, either in collections put out by Rowan Collections (some of which are now out of print) or produced as special issues of knitting magazines. Still, while dedicated knitters may have encountered these patterns before, they won't have admired them in such glorious surroundings. Fassett's books are as much for looking at as making things from, and, as usual, everything in this collection--from the design, to the numerous color photographs, to the size of the print--shows thought and care. Detailed instructions and graphs are given for each of Fassett's designs, which include jackets, sweaters, and vests for men, women, and children. Ilene Cooper