The Mitten Handbook

Starred review from November 15, 2017
Lots of oohs and aahsand trips to the yarn storewill be by-products of Huff's latest (following The New Stranded Colorwork, 2009, and five other books). Huff shows there are no handmade items as cute, nor as creative, as mittens. Adding to the book's versatility, she shares both DIY and follow-a-pattern methods for mitten knitting. The DIY showcases different types of cuffs (corrugated rib, for instance); thumbs (circular, Western gusset); edges (Latvian braid); and tops (pointed, yarn over), which yield together hundreds of your-choice variations. On the other hand, those preferring the standard tubular hand covering will discover 20 patterns with top-notch instructions; color photographs; and, when necessary, charts and graphs. (Level of difficulty is not indicated, though a sharp-eyed knitter will be able to discern talent needed.) After reviewing the elements of design, components, and techniques, the exclamations begin. Who could resist goldfish look-alikes for baby fingers? A unisex fingerless version in sporty stripes? Even elegant, long opera gloves? It's never too early to start those holiday 2018 gifts. Appended are special techniques, abbreviations, and resources.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2017, American Library Association.)