This is the first of the reviews of a new batch of books acquired by our guild library. Aline has been hard at it reorganizing the library and its borrowing and returning systems. I have been blessed with the task of looking at the acquisitions and sharing my views on these with you. So. First up: Modular Knits, new techniques for today’s knitters. By Iris Schreier. Lark Books. 2005.

She uses mostly painted yarns and her techniques eliminate the ‘patching’ we often see in traditionally knitted items. And because the work is multidirectional, a scarf, for instance, is less likely to stretch and become long and narrow, which can happen with one made using garter stitch. There are patterns for scarves, shawls, hats, purses, vests, one airy number with holes in the centre of each square, an afghan, and a table runner.

I’ve not done a lot of modular knitting, so I’m no expert on the comparison between this and the ‘usual’ techniques. This book shows a continuous knitting technique and eliminates cutting and picking up. All stitches remain live on the needle. I gave myself a mini-course trying out all her preliminary preparatory exercises so that I could see how difficult they would be and how clearly the instructions are written. I succeeded, but not always on the first try. I needed to pay close attention. My only recommendation would be to do all the exercises in a plain yarn, as multidirectional, multicoloured is a bit confusing for the first time student of these techniques. A neat book but, not for the faint of heart.

Jacqueline Biéler, November 2008

Lots of interesting projects in this book. Chapters introduce the basic modular knitting techniques, and have a project utilizing each. Techniques include short rows, vertical & horizontal garter stitch squares, diagonal triangles & diamonds, unmitered or center-increase shapes, center decrease shapes, and working with multiple shapes.

Unfortunately there are a lot of errors in the directions. A list of corrections can be found online at http://www.artyarns.com/newsite/html/book_updates_main.htm

Excellent guide to mitred squares and beyond. Using a modular technique you can create garments that look like patchwork without seaming! Always useful... ( )

A traditional knitting technique gets a new and easier spin, so that even beginners can master the process. Just dip into this comprehensive course, with themed tutorials--each with handy practice exercises--as well as simple instructions, charts, and 29 fabulous projects. Modular knitting is a bit like a game: you create designs in the same way you'd work a jigsaw puzzle--piece by piece. Start by completing one square, cube, or diamond, and then build on that by knitting additional basic figures and forms. Although the finished product looks complex, with its variety of shape and color changes, it's actually not hard at all. Start with a very easy patchwork square pillow, and move onto the rounded market bag, triangle hat, and zigzag scarf. ( )