Great reads

1 min read

Create lightweight pieces for your summer wardrobe with this collection of modern designs in plant-based yarns

by Marie Green

KNITTING LIGHT

Knitting Light is published by Page Street Publishing, priced £19.99. www.pagestreetpublishing.com

THIS PATTERN book will be enjoyed by knitters who love to work with plant-based yarns - and also by those new to fibres such as cotton, linen and hemp. These yarns have very different characteristics to more commonly used woollen yarns, and so Marie Greene provides tips and tricks on knitting and caring for projects made using cotton, linen, bamboo and rayon.

Such fibres are ideal for warmer days, and Marie has used them to create 20 light, comfortable summer garments. The projects are mostly seamless, in nine sizes from 32in to 60in. Marie’s instructions are clear and easy to follow, too.

Lacework is a popular way to create airy knits for summer, and Marie brings us a section of projects combining classic shapes and lace details. Among them is the ‘Aster Lace Panel Tee’, a hip-length top with an intricate central lace panel. The featherweight ‘Freesia’ top has a petal-like stitch pattern, and is knitted in cupro yarn, a silk-like rayon created from cotton waste.

Pieces for trans-seasonal wear include a linen-blend pullover with lace panels down the sides, and a long, sleeveless cotton cardigan with an all-over lace pattern inspired by thistle flowers.

There are simple colourwork designs, too, such a batwing top with a plain upper bodice and