I love knitting (& sewing books) that hold special stories and treasures inside. When I heard that the talented ladies behind Pom Pom Quarterly were publishing their very first book - Take Heart: A Transatlantic Knitting Journey by Fiona Alice, I knew it was a must have. Pom Pom Press has stayed true to their gorgeous and authentic keepsake aesthetic that they have so lovingly created with their popular magazines. Each one is a jewel to be treasured - and Take Heart fits right amongst them on my shelf.
This beautifully presented print book comprises 11 classic accessory knitting patterns with a contemporary aesthetic. Featuring geometric textures, interesting stitch patterns and a sprinkling of colourwork. These small but interesting projects are perfect for gift knitting, using up stash yarns or trying out that special skein you've had your eye on.
Take Heart "traces a path across the Atlantic from Fiona’s hometown in Nova Scotia, to where she now resides in London". Each pattern throughout the book is lovingly illustrated by Fiona and features her heartfelt writing detailing her inspiration behind them. Together this creates a more personal experience for the reader. Pom Pom Press believes that "handmade objects are imbued with the stories of those who make them" and it's quite evident that this is true in Take Heart.
Fiona's book features 11 accessory patterns using yarns from locally owned British & Canadian companies including SweetGeorgia, Handmaiden Fine Yarn, John Arbon Textiles, Illimani, The Uncommon Thread, Kettle Yarn Co, Toft Alpaca, and The Border Mill. Photographed amongst the stunning Welsh seaside by longtime Pom Pom collaborator JuJu Vail, this book takes you on both a fibre journey.
TAKE HEART features the following 11 patterns:
- Take Heart (hat)
- Three Cliffs (wrap)
- Queensland Beach (headband)
- Pennard Castle (legwarmers)
- Martinique Beach (cowl)
- Lunenburg Harbour (socks)
- Ketch Harbour (shawl)
- Chester Basin Mittens
- Chester Basin Hat
- Caswell Bay Hat
- Caswell Bay Fingerless Mitts
I RECOMMEND THIS BOOK FOR:
Anyone who loves the Pom Pom Quarterly aesthetic. The size, paper, and styling are all reminiscent of Pom Pom Mag.
YOU'LL LOVE THIS BOOK IF:
You enjoy a special touch to your knitting books. The stories, illustrations and photos allow you a lovely look into Fiona's designs. The patterns are all gorgeous and feature geometrics and texture made with wonderful yarns.
MY FAVOURITE THINGS ABOUT THE BOOK ARE:
The combination of Fiona's stories along with her illustrations make for a special book. I also really enjoyed the graphic design of the book, as well as the patterns themselves.
TAKE HEART by Fiona Alice can be purchased at the following:
PRINT BOOK // INDIVIDUAL PATTERNS
Which pattern from Take Heart is your fave? Have you gotten a copy yet?
All images in post © Juju Vail.