Knit Book Review: Knit 2 Together
32 Unique Designs from Tracey Ullman and Her Knitting Mentor
Knit 2 Together is a charming collection of distinctive, creative knitting patterns and humorous advice about the craft.
Co-authors Mel Clark and Tracey Ullman (of FOX Television fame) were friends first, developing the concept for Knit 2 Together over a cup of tea, and it shows. As the cover photo of the two in a double-necked sweater suggests, this is a book with special patterns and a quirky difference. Explanatory sections and pattern descriptions feature the unique voice of each, offering a balance of Ullman’s humor and hobby-knitter humility and Clark’s professional expertise.
The Designs
If the authors’ banter is charming, even more so are the 32 original patterns. There’s something here for any knitter, novice to expert—from a two-skein cashmere neck wrap in lovely feather-and-fan stitch to an asymmetrical Fair Isle vest. Most projects are suited to women, though there are some offerings for men and children as well. Other highlights include:
- a pleated, pompon-embellished wool apron
- a classic, structured doctor’s bag in a tweedy herringbone stitch
- a stunning ribbon-tied raglan cardigan
- an ocean-inspired bathmat
- a cozy eyelet-stitch wrap with a dramatic shawl collar
- a floral picture frame (think Tahiti!)
- a table runner trimmed with tiny shells
- a frilly-edged garter stitch baby cape
- a tea cozy with a tutu
- felted slippers with trim variations
Though most of the projects are both beautiful and practical, there are a few which seem to have been included more for comedic value than for utility or good looks. The knitted tie, for example, was presented by Ullman to Jay Leno, and she jokingly complains that he hasn’t worn it yet on his show. And “Mel’s Mouse Family” is certainly cute and creative, but one wonders whether it’d be worth the effort to knit somebody else’s relatives in rodent form (the mouse itself would make an adorable toy—maybe with some different clothes?).
The Layout
The knitter-friendly layout includes sidebars full of details on materials, technique notes, and stitch patterns, as well as clear schematics of patterns with more complex constructions. Instructions are clear and concise. All of the patterns are documented with clever color photographs—some featuring Ullman’s daughter and pet spaniels!
There is enough basic knitting information to support beginners with the simplest projects, but some will definitely require additional techniques and experience. Another caveat: many of the yarns are luxurious, and therefore relatively pricey. With some careful substitution, though, knitters will soon be creating striking pieces unlike any they’ve made before.
And last—yes, the book does include a pattern for the cover sweater!
Additional Details
Knit 2 Together is published by STC Craft/A Melanie Falick Book ISBN-13: 978-1584795346
