I am not a knitter, but I am a Star Wars fan. Thankfully I have a mother-in-law that is a master knitter and so she was the perfect person to ask to review this book I received from Insight Editions. These are her thoughts –
It’s a lovely book! Overall, well illustrated and edited. I cannot speak to whether the choice of iconic objects for these projects will be popular, but I can speak to aspects of knitting: the editing, instructions, and project intrigue.
- High value for a knitter (worth the money and time investment) based on the choices of projects included. The projects use interesting construction techniques. Also, the designs are very couture and result in crisp, professional looking products.
- Well written Summary Bars that describe details of all materials needed, special NOTES, and choice of pattern stitches.
- Practical recommendations are included for materials that are easily purchased.
- Great pictures of project pieces shown as the project is being created; good charts and schematics.
- A robust Abbreviations page
- A clearly written GLOSSARY
- The inline instructions are very clearly articulated and easy to follow.
- Excellent choice of stitch options and recommended techniques (ex: german short rows and how to wet block) are included in-line when needed.
- Each project does suggest a “Skill Level,” which can be helpful to a new knitter. Most of these projects will require prior knitting experience or a trusted mentor. The resulting projects are beautiful, but some are complicated and they will not be created quickly. This collection of projects will require both patience and skill.
Bottomline: For me to buy a knitting book, it must include at least 3 projects that I will actually make and it must include all of the features I have listed above. Since this book does have them all, I would buy this book.
With her thoughts, I will add that this book is full of designs that I would love for her to make me and my wife is also keen to have her make a few of them for her as well. Because of this, Star Wars: Knitting the Galaxy is rated 5 out of 5 stars.
Author: Matt Rushing
Matthew Rushing is the host of Trek.fm‘s The 602 Club and co-host of TheNerdParty.com‘s AggressiveNegotiations: A Star Wars Podcast. He can be found on Twitter @mattrushing02.