Types of patterns: a mix of stuff. Scarf (3); hat (2); boxer shorts (1); socks (2); cardigan (3); men's jumper (1); computer keyboard cover (1); felted saddle blanket (1); Blanket (2); bag (1); shawl (1); baby sweater (1); dress (2); Skirt (2); cushion (1); top (1); pompom awning (1); Bathrobe (1), Bikini (1); yarmulke (1); yoga bag (1)

Number of Patterns; 30

Split of patterns: mostly women or accessories

Size Range: women small (32") to X-large (40"), though not in all patterns. Men small (38") to x-large (48")

Colour/Black & White: Colour photos

Schematics: yes for everything

Target Audience: A lot of patterns are pretty simple, beginner heading into intermediate

How to knit guide: no and the special techniques have no illustrations so if you're a beginner you might want to have a basic book nearby for clarity

Experimental/Classical/Modern: some of it is a little experimental. There's a few patterns where it encourages trying out new techniques. Overall though it's pretty Classical heading into modern. Probably won't date too badly.

Comments: This tells the story of Suzan Mischer who left her job as a president for specials and documentaries at CBS to have children and then decided that her heart was in becoming a knit shop owner, and not just any knit shop but a knit cafe. These are some designs that came about due to this shop.

Several of the designs are quite simple and some require some maths to work out how many stitches and how to adapt for different yarns. All of the yarns used she stocks herself but are pretty well known. There's probably something for everyone in this book, particularly a beginner who is beginning to stretch themselves.

Buy/Borrow: I'd borrow first to see how it appeals. It's a lighthearted book and quite a fun read.

Where found: South Dublin Public Libraries via Borrowbooks.ie ( )

When former CBS vice president Suzan Mischer decided to open a knitting store on Melrose Avenue in Los Angeles, she wanted to create a place where people could gather, slow down, and talk (as well as buy supplies). The result was Knit Cafe, a sleek yet homey neighborhood yarn store in one of the most famous neighborhoods in the world.

This fabulous shop—and its unique spirit—are celebrated in Greetings from Knit Cafe, now available in an updated paperback edition.

Colorful and chic, the book offers 30 of Knit Cafe’s most dazzling patterns for "California-style" projects ranging from hiking socks to a bikini to a "red carpet" gown. It also features stories about how the celebrated store came to be and how its eclectic clientele came to shape it. Even a few favorite recipes from regular customers are included.

Knitters nationwide will enjoy Knit Cafe’s California spirit and join its eclectic circle of devotees. ( )