Knitless

October 15, 2015

Completed knitting and crochet projects often leave behind leftover yarn. In this collection, McFadden (1000 Handmade Greetings) gives crafters an abundance of uses for leftovers in quantities large and small. The projects are loosely divided into four categories--decor, accessories, art, and cards and gifts--with a variety of projects in each category. A wide range of techniques is used, including beginner-level weaving, rug hooking, braiding, macrame, and simple embroidery; directions are provided. The strongest pieces are in the decor category, which contains several midcentury modern-inspired pieces, including a clock influenced by a Spirograph drawing and a vintage lampshade embellished with asterisks made of yarn. Fans of upcycling will find several projects that make clever use of old sweaters, accessories, and furniture. A number of projects are appropriate for children or teens, including a classic "string art" piece made with yarn, Mod Podge, and a ball. McFadden's step-by-step instructions are clear enough for novices to follow, but the projects are enjoyable enough that experienced crafters may find new uses for their yarn stash. VERDICT This is a solid general crafting book with wide appeal, and even though there's no knitting involved, crafters may still learn a new technique or two.

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