Mom & Me Knits

April 2, 2012
Popular knitwear designer Japel has a clever concept for her latest book: each pattern is shown with two variations. The first is for mom, and the second for a daughter, either sized for a baby or a young girl. Each set clearly goes together, but these aren’t the matchy-matchy designs that might make one’s skin crawl. Japel assumes readers know how to knit and the designs can be complex, but all are photographed clearly, in full color, and many show the set together on models. Plenty of helpful illustrations are also provided within the instructions. A sure hit is the Surfer Tee set, a relaxed duo that knit into casual T-shirts with kangaroo pockets for both ladies. The Library cardigans are bookishly cute, although the sight of the baby’s Aran coat will elicit the most squeals of adorableness. The only off-note is an oddly shaped set of artist vests that is unflattering for both young and old. This book is sure to do well with the mostly female demographic of knitters, as the range of styles is excellent for a small book and the cute factor is off the charts.

May 1, 2012

Just in time for Mother's Day, designer Japel (Fitted Knits) and photographer Herring present this collection of matching or coordinating sweaters (and one shawl) for mothers and daughters. Each design is presented as a pair of patterns: one for babies and young children, the other for adults (sizes XS through XXXL). Japel's specialty is custom-fitted knitwear, and that's where her patterns shine--each of the adult sizes is cleverly designed to flatter the wearer's shape. VERDICT This attractive collection features flattering, appealing garments for adults and adorable, age-appropriate garments for children.

Copyright 2012 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.