The Art of Circular Yokes

[annieb123]

Originally published on my blog: Nonstop Reader.

The Art of Circular Yokes is a beautifully curated collection of designs and design instruction for circular yoke sweaters. Edited by Kerry Bogert, with an expected publication date on 11th June 2019, it's 160 pages and will be available in hardback and ebook formats.

The included complete designs are from 13 designers from all over the world with a variety of design aesthetic. There are pullovers which feature colorwork, lacy shaping, cables and more in a variety of gauges and with varied (and gorgeous) yarns.

The format of the book reminds me a lot of the other books I've reviewed recently from F+W Media and Interweave (also edited by Ms. Bogert). The introduction includes really useful formulae and references for designing and realizing original designs. Understanding the underlying theory of construction will allow the reader to make their own unique designs. For readers who prefer to simply pick up needles and yarn, choose a size, and cast on, that option is available by picking one of the included designs.

Most of the sweaters include written and 'Japanese' charted design elements. All of the included tutorial designs are accompanied by multiple clear color photographs from different angles. Interweave photographers and graphics/layout folks are great at their job and this book is no different. All the pictured designs are for women, though some might be adaptable for men. Most of the designs are for pullovers, but there are 3 (by my count) cardigan/button up styles. The patterns are advanced, but I would say (mostly) not beyond the capacity of a keen beginner. There is a how-to-knit chapter at the back of the book.

One additional facet of the book which I enjoyed very much was the links section to the individual web pages for the included designers and yarn suppliers. I spent way too much time on the individual websites and Ravelry pages (and found a bunch of 'must knit' projects which are calling to me). The eARC of the book includes an interactive table of contents and links section, very handy.

I didn't knit any of patterns fully, however, I did swatch three designs and found no errors in the instructions, and the swatches were fine with the called for yarns and gauges.

Five stars. These are classic patterns which will age very well. Luxurious and very well designed.

Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.