Book Review: Gifted

By Sandy Amazeen Aug 4, 2010, 3:20 GMT

There\'s nothing quite like receiving a handmade gift, and your family and friends will love being on the receiving end of these handmade designs. Designer Mags Kandis inspires with this delightful collection of beautiful and colorful little projects for you to knit, crochet, and felt. From wearable accessories such as hats, mittens, scarves, socks, and wraps to home decor including a tea cozy, pin cushion, needle case, and laptop cover, ...more

Knitters and crocheters typically enjoy creating items for loved ones but with busy schedules, it’s not always possible to find the time to make large items like sweaters or afghans. That’s where this collection of playful designs shines with an assortment of cute, quick patterns that look more complex then they really are. Case in point, there are the Cabled Boot Toppers with an optional Felted Leaf Brooch that will delight recipients of all ages and be sure to make a couple pair for yourself before the snow flies. The felted Granny Bag is a clever stash-buster that updates the ubiquitous crochet square by the same name. The luxury Weekend Socks and bright Modern Mangas display your multicolor knitting skills while the Felted Trivet and Coasters encourage colorplay with an introduction to needlefelting.

Unlike most gift collections, Kandis includes different construction details and finishing techniques that urge knitters and crocheters to expand their horizons while creating items people will actually enjoy receiving. Even better, several felted cut-and-sew projects make use of those items that didn’t turn out as expected or have been damaged by moths, stains or washing machines. Most designs only require a couple skeins of yarn and are leftover friendly so not only are you creating charming gifts, you can clear out those odds and ends you’ve been feeling guilty about hanging on to.