My views about a new book ...

About knitting, of course.

 

Knitting the Perfect Fit by Melissa Leapman is a guide for anyone interested in learning and perfecting shaping details and incorporating them into their knitting. Melissa shows the knitter how designer details and shaping actually work. From a variety of necklines and arm details to different shaping techniques that offer a more slimming and flattering look to any garment. She examines mastered techniques that knitters can use to adapt and customize any project. Each technique is thoroughly explained with tips and exercises, and then featured in a project to allow knitters to practice their new skills.

The book has four chapters: Basics, Step Away from the Edge, Designer Details and Figure Flatterers. Each chapter has several designs which illustrate Melissa’s styling points. Nineteen (19) patterns are included in this book. The patterns are labeled with codes to help you choose the styles that are best suited for your body type. I’ve had a few weeks with this book, now and have browsed through it quite a few times. I will admit that for many years, I’ve tried to keep away from close-fitting sweaters because I thought they would magnify unwanted or rather unsightly curves that I don't want to have attention brought to. But what I discovered was that women of any size can find some ideas in this book that will help them choose design styles that flatter their body type. I really think this is a valuable addition to any serious knitter’s library.

I liked the designs in this book quite a bit also since they are stylish without being too over the top or weird. They look wearable and comfortable. I’ve liked Melissa Leapman’s designs before and she hasn’t disappointed me this time either. The one thing I’m really disappointed about though is that the book is not spiral bound. I wish all instructional books like this would be spiral bound so that it could be laid out open and flat in front of me without the pages turning while I try out new techniques or patterns. Publishers please make a note of this. Knitters everywhere would be so grateful. 

All in all, this looks like a great book for anyone who is interested in creating better fitting knits.