One of the best things about writing my book has been getting to know the work of other authors. I first met Stephannie Tallent at a knitting event. She was knitting an absolutely stunning sweater, which I walked up to admire. As fate would have it, she too was working on a book for Cooperative Press, and the sweater was one of the patterns in it. Here’s the finished Wrought Iron Cardi from Stephannie’s book California Revivial Knits:
Stephannie’s book came about from her interest in architectural details from the California Revival period. Not only are her patterns gorgeous, but the photos that illustrate her story are absolutely stunning. Photographer Kathy Cadigan created images for this book that beautifully show architectural elements that influenced Stephannie’s designs. There is a gorgeous sequence that shows how the the traditional tiles are crafted. I just love the way the book ties together the story that led to this collection with the designs themselves.
I love the variety of patterns in California Revival Knits. There are small projects and large, cables and lace, and beautiful colorwork. Here you can see how a traditional peacock motif influenced mitts and a cowl design. Beautiful beads and buttons add another technique to the mix, as well as lending sparkle and elegance.
I’ve been itching to make the Peacock Mitts since I first laid eyes on them. In the meantime, I’m going to make the Wrought Mitts, with their beautiful wrought-iron inspired cables, for the Ravellenic Games (the Ravelympics having been renamed due to the ridiculous heavy-handedness of the US Olympic Committee). I’ll post more about that as the Opening Ceremonies draw near.
And guess what? Cooperative Press had given me a copy of this fantastic book to give away to one of you, Dear Readership! Look for the California Revival Knits giveaway in the next few weeks.
To order California Revival Knits for yourself, here’s the link to the ordering page.
Published by Cooperative Press
Photography by Kathy Cadigan
Stephannie Tallent’s website is Sunset Cat
Your work is beautiful! I love the colors and the peacocks! I can’t imagine coming up with such beautiful and intricate designs on my own! I hope I win a copy of your book later. 🙂
The photos here are from the book itself. I can’t wait to knit some of these items myself – I’ve seen all of the samples in person, and they are indeed beautifully knit!
The knitted items in this new book are beautiful!! Not just your everyday patterns.