Last week I shared a bumper list of tutorials and inspiring resources for your sweater knitting. This week I wanted to share a book with you that I find particularly inspiring.
Magpies, Homebodies, and Nomads
by Cirilia Rose is a gorgeous collection of knitwear and a book I’ve really enjoyed dipping into since I bought it last year. Cirilia describes the book as ‘a modern knitter’s guide to discovering and exploring style’ so this goes beyond sweaters to knit and offers tips on how to develop your personal style as well.
Details I love about this book:
Photography- Jared Flood is the photographer for the book and as a result, it is really beautifully presented and details are easy to see. (all photos included in this feature are Jared’s)
Style notes- Cirilia shares details about her professional experience in with styling (she used to work for Berroco), her stylist for this book and lots of great tips in a section she calls ‘Think Like a Stylist’. From organising your wardrobe to dressing up your knits, Cirilia includes great ideas that will help you really showcase your handmade sweaters.
The title of the book also indicates three distinct themes that the patterns are grouped by. Magpies are collectors and this section contains patterns to use your special skeins of stash yarn. Homebodies are patterns for us introverts and includes a cosy selection of designs for hunkering down with your knitting (and possibly a podcast?! Although Cirilia doesn’t mention that). And finally, Nomads. The final section of the book is inspired by the theme of nomads, taking inspiration and ideas from our travels. As many of you will know, this is a theme I’ve been inspired by for years and can really relate to the creativity that springs from journeys.
Sweaters I love:
Isla Cardigan– This is a cute DK weight cardigan that’s really lady like with a high waist feature. I just love the details and texture to this cardigan and think it would look fabulous with a dress or skirt.
Gezell Coat- This oversized shape is a big trend in knitwear right now and very recognisable here in London. This aran weight jacket looks just like an image from The Sartorialist! I also love the bobbles that line the bottom of the jacket, a little touch of femininity.
Jordaan Cape- This piece is really fun with it’s unusual shape and pops of on trend neon. I love that Cirilia questions how wearable ponchos are and updates her favourite trend with something a bit more practical and knitted.
Rekya Pullover- This is another cute sweater that falls into a more causal look I think. Cirilia draws her inspiration from her many trips to Iceland and uses Lopi (sponsor Meadow Yarn link) to create a warm and wearable hoodie.
Studio Pullover- This is so much fun! I loved reading about the process behind this sweater, it’s many iterations and how Cirilia experimented with different ideas and motifs before settling on this final design that she includes in the book. It’s a really creative and vibrant sweater.
My Final Thoughts:
I love inspirational books that invite me to reflect on my knitting and help me develop skills beyond the basics. With this book there is a rich supply of techniques but also ideas for developing your own personal style and making the best of all your knitwear. This is an inspiring, heartwarming book whether you are a homebody or a nomad.
