Knitting Daily with Sandi » Spring 2008 Knits Preview: Glam for Every Gal

Spring 2008 Knits Preview: Glam for Every Gal

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It's an Interweave tradition: Whenever a new issue is ready, a few of us gather for what we fondly call "Story Time." Since there is usually only one "proof" copy, we pull our chairs close together around the lucky person holding the One Copy, who carefully, sloooowwwllly turns the pages and shows them around to a crowd as rapt as any listening to the adventures of The Velveteen Rabbit. For some of us, like me, this is our first peek at the new Interweave Knits; for others, who have worked on the magazine in bits and pieces, this is their chance to see the final, gorgeous product of all their hard work.


Hexacomb Cardigan

Today, it's your turn. The Spring 2008 Knits Preview is up, and so I invite you to pull the preview up in another window, and join me for a little walk through knitting wonderland.

There is absolutely nothing frumpy here in Spring Knits land. There is only pretty, pretty, and more pretty. Silhouettes are feminine (perhaps even a bit flirty!), and details add depth and glamour enough to delight a red-carpet hopeful.

In fact: Stop the presses! What a great idea. I'd LOVE to see some handknits on the red carpet at the Oscars this year! Anyone have Cate Blanchett's email addy?

I'm serious. Wouldn't Cate look stunning in the Slyph Cardigan or the Cobweb Lace Stole? And Ellen Page would look adorable in the Hexacomb Cardigan.

Laura Linney, the Printed Silk Cardigan was practically made for you.
Bleeding Heart Stole Julie Christie could carry off the cover project, the Holly Jacket, and Marion Cotillard could waltz in wearing the Bleeding Hearts Stole over a slim, satiny black ballgown.


Chameleon Scarf

Ms. Ruby Dee could do the Mesh Gloves some serious justice, and Amy Ryan would look perfect in the Flutter Sleeve Cardi. Tilda Swinton, always a trendsetter, might try the Auburn Camp Shirt over a lace cami and silk pants. And for Saoirse Ronan, the 13-year-old nominee for Supporting Actress, well, there's A Good Stripe Dress that would be delightful on her small frame.

And I gotta say: I can see Johnny Depp jauntily wearing the Chameleon Scarf, I really, really can.

Shaping, stitching, yarn, and style, the designs in this issue are all stars. Wish upon one, and add some knitting magic to your own story.




Sandi Wiseheart is the editor of Knitting Daily.

What's on Sandi's needles? Shoulders of the Gathered Pullover, and the body of the Secret Project.


Posted Jan 29 2008, 04:00 PM by KD Sandi
Filed under:

Comments

YavannaC wrote re: Spring 2008 Knits Preview: Glam for Every Gal
on Wed, Jan 30 2008 11:45 AM
ooh! Such pretties. Can't wait to see this one on the stands. My fingers are already itching to cast on even though I'm still working on winter projects :D
RebeccaW wrote re: Spring 2008 Knits Preview: Glam for Every Gal
on Wed, Jan 30 2008 12:09 PM
I don't mean to be blunt (ok I do) but um... I would have been much more interested in an exploration of the yarns or techniques in this issue. I could care less about movie stars.
SusanC wrote re: Spring 2008 Knits Preview: Glam for Every Gal
on Wed, Jan 30 2008 12:17 PM
how lovely... Can't wait to get this issue, love the printed silk cardigan, and I'm not much of a sweater person, might have to actually make something for myself. Of course, that's after I get the other 3 projects finished =). Happy knitting to all.
LisaB wrote re: Spring 2008 Knits Preview: Glam for Every Gal
on Wed, Jan 30 2008 12:22 PM
Not to be ungrateful, because many of these patterns are lovely, but... I see there's been absolutely no effort toward using any plus-size models. Will that ever happen, or should I assume that I will never see anyone who looks like me in IK?
Anonymous wrote re: Spring 2008 Knits Preview: Glam for Every Gal
on Wed, Jan 30 2008 12:33 PM
I love the patterns in the comming magazine. How about taking us through the steps to enlarge one pattern. Possibly the printed silk cardigan????
Bonnie wrote re: Spring 2008 Knits Preview: Glam for Every Gal
on Wed, Jan 30 2008 1:07 PM
About the Staff Projects: These used to be offered together in one PDF, which was very convenient. Now they are being "released" on different dates. Why is a heavy-looking hat made of wool and silk being released in mid-April, long past the time when most of us will want to knit a warm hat, but the lacey gloves pattern will be available in February? Maybe switch those dates?
Bonnie wrote re: Spring 2008 Knits Preview: Glam for Every Gal
on Wed, Jan 30 2008 1:10 PM
One tiny proofreading comment: The word "available" is spelled wrong on all the Staff Projects.
GJabouri wrote re: Spring 2008 Knits Preview: Glam for Every Gal
on Wed, Jan 30 2008 1:16 PM
Hi all,

I know it's a matter of different tastes, but I was rather disappointed in the Spring IK. Excepting the Printed Silk Cardigan and the stoles, I did not like anything else. The Katherine vest looks particularly bad, even on the model. It's opening too wide across the breasts ... instead of having a slimming effect it would make anybody with anything more than an A cup look terrible.

I also have to second Lisa's comment: when will we see some plus-sized models??
Coley J wrote re: Spring 2008 Knits Preview: Glam for Every Gal
on Wed, Jan 30 2008 2:45 PM
OH MY GOODNESS! I love every single one of the patterns in the magazine. WOW...is all I can say. I am sooooooooooo excited!
CharityR wrote re: Spring 2008 Knits Preview: Glam for Every Gal
on Wed, Jan 30 2008 2:59 PM
I am so excited to get this issue. More to the point to get my hands on the Holly Jacket!
LaurieR wrote re: Spring 2008 Knits Preview: Glam for Every Gal
on Wed, Jan 30 2008 3:04 PM
I would love to see more plus sized patterns and models in IK. I just bought my first subscription to it (and I haven't subscribed to any magazine in YEARS) and I really hope there are patterns that I would love to knit for me and I'd love to see how they'd fit on a body like mine. I'd love to make the trumpet skirt, but until I have knitting skills up to the task of increasing for where I am well-endowed, it isn't going to happen. Please, please PLEASE more plus sized patterns and models!
AdrienneB wrote re: Spring 2008 Knits Preview: Glam for Every Gal
on Wed, Jan 30 2008 3:36 PM
Requests for galleries: Holly Jacket, Printed Silk Cardigan, Hexacomb Cardigan and the Banded Peasant Blouse. I really like the previews describing the amount of ease shown with each. And, I have not seen a dark picture yet.

Plus size models would be an enhancement.
AdrienneB wrote re: Spring 2008 Knits Preview: Glam for Every Gal
on Wed, Jan 30 2008 3:36 PM
Requests for galleries: Holly Jacket, Printed Silk Cardigan, Hexacomb Cardigan and the Banded Peasant Blouse. I really like the previews describing the amount of ease shown with each. And, I have not seen a dark picture yet.

Plus size models would be an enhancement.
MichaelD wrote re: Spring 2008 Knits Preview: Glam for Every Gal
on Wed, Jan 30 2008 3:44 PM
I second Lisa B's comment about not being able to see herself in IK. I love the mag and will continue to subscribe, but I'm waiting for the day when we'll see more than 1 garment (hats, scarves, and mitts don't count) for boys and men. I mean, why can't it be "Glam for Every Guy" too?
PatK wrote re: Spring 2008 Knits Preview: Glam for Every Gal
on Wed, Jan 30 2008 3:50 PM
On the bright side: It's nice to see this wide an array of shapes, silhouettes and detailing after what seem to be a couple of seasons of boxy, boxy, boxy. Several of these really are quite lovely.

On the not-so-bright side, I have a hard time imagining many of these patterns on anyone who doesn't share the, slim, girlish shapes of the models. Yes, the patterns go up to larger sizes, but we see no examples, and I have a hard time imagining most of those shapes on anyone with generous boobs, hips or belly. And the flirty/girly designs (most of these) would look downright silly on someone my age.

That's OK. I know a lot of young knitters complain, and justifiably, that some knitting publications are nothing but "granny sweaters."

But it would be nice to see more of a happy medium, both in terms of sizes and fashion sensibilities.
SaraM wrote re: Spring 2008 Knits Preview: Glam for Every Gal
on Wed, Jan 30 2008 4:02 PM
I LOVE so many of the patterns available in this issue! I have to say it looks like it will be one of my favorite issues ever. I would like to see the sweaters on women with larger busts. I'm in the 38-40" bust range and am wondering how some of these will look on someone like me, with more than an A or B cup. I would so love to see as many of these as possible in a gallery of IK staff members in the near future. Thanks so much, IK, for bringing all these beautiful patterns to us! :o)
CharlotteW wrote re: Spring 2008 Knits Preview: Glam for Every Gal
on Wed, Jan 30 2008 4:05 PM
I like that you've added what the recommended ease is for each project, or what the ease is on the model. Thanks for adding this info.
JessiV wrote re: Spring 2008 Knits Preview: Glam for Every Gal
on Wed, Jan 30 2008 4:08 PM
it's tilda swinton, not swanson.
AnitaM wrote re: Spring 2008 Knits Preview: Glam for Every Gal
on Wed, Jan 30 2008 4:40 PM
I am sooo looking forward to getting this issue! I've been looking at cardis a lot lately - with it being Summer going into Autumn here in Australia - and I can see myself making several of these. My absolute favourite is the Sylph cardigan. I have a 40" bust, but I think it will look great, although I might make it a bit longer, seeing as I'll be wearing it into cooler weather. I'll definitely be making several others too. Especially the Bleeding Hearts Stole. My best friend just surprised me with some gorgeous plum laceweight - it will be perfect! Now for the long and painful wait until my issue actually arrives and I can get started! :)
RebeccaSwanson wrote re: Spring 2008 Knits Preview: Glam for Every Gal
on Wed, Jan 30 2008 4:43 PM
Yes, the previews for the spring issue: they are very sweet. For cute little girls of an age I left long ago. Will this be issue for the year that I pass on to someone else after the first look see?
Miss minerva wrote re: Spring 2008 Knits Preview: Glam for Every Gal
on Wed, Jan 30 2008 4:50 PM
eeek! aaack! when will my subscription copy land in my mailbox?!?!?!?! i can't wait to begin that holly (golightly?) jacket!

i second (or third, or...) the request for galleries of ik's bustier beauties in sweaters like the holly jacket, printed silk and hexacomb cardis.
TamiH wrote re: Spring 2008 Knits Preview: Glam for Every Gal
on Wed, Jan 30 2008 4:57 PM
I haven't yet branched out into a sweater for myself, but with this issue there's not much of a temptation either. Adding in the wish for plus sizing also.

Cate Blanchett while looking lovely in the Slyph Cardigan, would not be able to wear it until well after the Oscars. She's very much pregnant and wouldn't do the sweater justice.
EmilyM wrote re: Spring 2008 Knits Preview: Glam for Every Gal
on Wed, Jan 30 2008 5:06 PM
Thanks, Sandi!!! I love seeing these previews... they get me so excited to receive my issue in the mail... this issue looks GREAT! Many fun, spring-energy projects. Now if only the snow here would melt ... hmm...
SherylT wrote re: Spring 2008 Knits Preview: Glam for Every Gal
on Wed, Jan 30 2008 5:28 PM
Spring IK has several lovely patterns. Would like to see the hexacomb ith looser sleeves. I agree with others I'd like to see more plus size patterns and modles.
sgt
Kelle wrote re: Spring 2008 Knits Preview: Glam for Every Gal
on Wed, Jan 30 2008 5:36 PM
Thanks for the preview, as some of the patterns are very cute! However, I must echo the previous comments: thank you for the ease numbers, and please Please PLEASE more plus-size models and sizings. I may be in the majority here, but very few of these will fit my ample frame without modifications (nor can I visualize myself in them).
AveryK wrote re: Spring 2008 Knits Preview: Glam for Every Gal
on Wed, Jan 30 2008 6:15 PM
Well, I was hoping this post would come up with some yarn substitution suggestions for he Rustic Jacket. So maybe I just opened this preview in the wrong frame of mind. But I was really disappointed by the design theme -- too girly -- and fiber choices -- too much silk.

Luckily I treated myself to some back issues of IK last fall. If like me, you find this issue too full of ruffles and faddish detailing, try the Spring 2002 issue. Suggested substitutions for patterns:

Kennita Tully's "Cables and Tulips" instead of "Dovetail Pullover" because the cable pattern is more interesting.

"Linen Drape Shell" instead of "Frock Camisole" or "Drawstring Chemise" because it looks like you can actually wear a bra under it.

"Sophisticated Rustic Jacket" instead of "Holly Jacket" because (well, see Sandy's last post)

and in lieu of all the silk blends, "Opulent Evening Shell and Shawl" knit up with Muench Touch Me.

Sorry Sandy. I usually love IK and your posts, but this one was a real downer.

Kuaikuai
YavannaC wrote re: Spring 2008 Knits Preview: Glam for Every Gal
on Wed, Jan 30 2008 6:31 PM
I still think all of the patterns are very lovely.

Honestly, as a younger knitter (I'm 27--not a child, but still younger) I like that these styles are fairly fashion forward. I'm a good average size, 38-30-39 (a modern size 8-10), with some curves of my own, but I still want pieces with good shaping. I like that many of the pieces have a very tailored look about them.
DebraY wrote re: Spring 2008 Knits Preview: Glam for Every Gal
on Wed, Jan 30 2008 6:36 PM
I think the new issue is yummy... As far as plus sizes . It is time to give these woman a understanding of how to enlarge their patterns so the "fit" will be there. We all have "body issues" and it is our own responsablity to learn to make patterns fit. It would be nice for them to see how a full figure woman would look in some of these patterns. Love the "freebe" Rustic Jacket.. Going to make it in a funky color and and STRUT!!! Debra
MaureenJ wrote re: Spring 2008 Knits Preview: Glam for Every Gal
on Wed, Jan 30 2008 7:22 PM
I can understand that you want to attract the younger knitter, and there are some cute things for them. If I were in my twenties, I'd be happy. As a Southern Californian, I hope to find projects in the Spring and Summer issues to wear here all year. Maybe the Printed Silk Cardigan or the Holly Jacket could do for someone my age, but this style of hanging open over the tummy -- I dunno. You can only wear that if you have no stomach at all.
Let's hope there are some articles on technique that are interesting.
Rhonda wrote re: Spring 2008 Knits Preview: Glam for Every Gal
on Wed, Jan 30 2008 7:36 PM
I'm in my mid-30s and by no means tiny (46" bust and I generally wear so-called plus-sized clothing) and this is the first time that I would say that I love most of the patterns and can hardly decide which one(s) to make! I can very easily imagine myself in most of them (of course with some adjusted sizing or the odd change to design features like length.) I think that it's the issue I will use the most. Also, I noticed that under project requirements, you are actually giving info regarding how much negative/positive ease to use -- this is so so helpful! I think further discussions of altering patterns will help the naysayers to come around. Keep up the great work at Interweave!
GraceS wrote re: Spring 2008 Knits Preview: Glam for Every Gal
on Wed, Jan 30 2008 7:39 PM
This issue is wonderful! I love many of the patterns and can't wait to get started. Lots of variety, fashionable and non-frumpy sweaters. Gallery request: flutter sleeve, holly jacket, printed silk cardi and trumpet skirt.

Also, thank you very much for the added info on the ease.

Yes, adding models of larger sizes as well as offering patterns for women of all sizes would be great but I see that you guys are working on all these things and I feel that so much negativity in the comments are unfair and credit is not always given when they should. Not everyone can be pleased at all times and I see that you are working on changes (which can take time) so I say thank you.
Katy wrote re: Spring 2008 Knits Preview: Glam for Every Gal
on Wed, Jan 30 2008 9:03 PM
I'm rather saddened by some of these comments, especially as you (Sandi) are discussing something that YOU are obviously proud of and thrilled by. I think constructive suggestions are valuable and great, but I also think there are times when a "Not to my tastes this time around, but hey, good on you!" is perhaps the more gracious response. Just my $0.02.

As for me, I've got a mile-long queue of pretty sweaters that I want to knit, but I'm happy to add more! Thanks, especially, for the extra info on fit and ease.
JewelieD wrote re: Spring 2008 Knits Preview: Glam for Every Gal
on Wed, Jan 30 2008 9:17 PM
Oh my goodness, that skirt is just lovely, and the hexacomb cardi, and the printed silk cardi and and and... oh my goodness! I can't WAIT for this to come out!
JenniferH wrote re: Spring 2008 Knits Preview: Glam for Every Gal
on Wed, Jan 30 2008 9:37 PM
Dear Sandi: I am delighted to see some shapely designs. As a larger woman, I definitely need to learn how to translate the pattern into something that will fit me, but I am so tired of feeling like I should just forget the clothes & wear the box.
There are some lovely items offered. Some are not to *my* taste, but they will appeal to another.
Thank you for bringing it to us. Definitely looking forward to having it in my hot little hands!
JenniferH wrote re: Spring 2008 Knits Preview: Glam for Every Gal
on Wed, Jan 30 2008 9:44 PM
One more thing, while I, too, am a larger woman, I must say I am appalled by the tone taken in today's posts.
Sandi, you have brought an immediacy to the patterns that we did not have prior to Knitting Daily. Thank you for your hard work. j
Trixie wrote re: Spring 2008 Knits Preview: Glam for Every Gal
on Wed, Jan 30 2008 9:53 PM
I think there are some very lovely patterns in this issue. While I agree that it would be nice to see the finished product on models of various sizes, and a wider sizing range on the patterns, I don't look through all of the patterns exclusively for something for me. Very often I will see a pattern that would be perfect on a friend or family member. I think IK should continue to offer fashion-forward patterns, but keep its reader base in mind, too.
ClaireM wrote re: Spring 2008 Knits Preview: Glam for Every Gal
on Wed, Jan 30 2008 10:34 PM
LOVELY - watching out for the mail. My daughter would look so cute in that stripy dress - already looking up the yarn.
Elizabeth wrote re: Spring 2008 Knits Preview: Glam for Every Gal
on Wed, Jan 30 2008 10:49 PM
I liked Pam Allen's sweater the best. I probably would not make any of these items, though.......cannot picture my fiftysomething figure in most of them. Sigh.
Liz wrote re: Spring 2008 Knits Preview: Glam for Every Gal
on Wed, Jan 30 2008 11:03 PM
Thank you for the wonderful preview and the work that has obviously gone into making these patterns more accessible to everyone. I found the initial tone of some of the comments to be harsher than I expected. Honestly, I feel that the patterns are great and while I myself am also not small (38-40D) I can see the cute details in these patterns and feel capable enough to tailor them for myself. (In particular I love the camp shirt pattern, silly as that might be for a woman in possession of my bosom.)

I guess what I'm saying is don't let the negativity get you down! Kudos on a fabu issue.
RebeccaW wrote re: Spring 2008 Knits Preview: Glam for Every Gal
on Wed, Jan 30 2008 11:30 PM
Most of the patterns in the spring 2008 issue are lovely and I can envision myself wearing some. I am 51 and do not think many of them are too "young" for me. I would just tweak sleeve fullness/length and perhaps more ease. Many of them do flatter plus sizes - I think - and maybe we should be more open to new fashions with some adaptation. Definitely looking forward to buying this magazine.
Comment by: Rebecca W | Jan 30/08
BarbaraS wrote re: Spring 2008 Knits Preview: Glam for Every Gal
on Wed, Jan 30 2008 11:38 PM
I love that these patterns tell how much ease +/- is intended. What a boon!
PaulineL wrote re: Spring 2008 Knits Preview: Glam for Every Gal
on Thu, Jan 31 2008 12:45 AM
I liked most of the garments/accessories and am looking forward to receiving the issue. Thanks for the comments on ease and the bonus photos. I think there were more bonus photos than in the past. Sudden thought - I don't know about the finances of photo shoots, but could you put photos of larger models wearing the sweaters in this section? I'd love to see that before going to the effort of buying lots of yarn and spending the extra hours knitting that big girls have to go through.
LindaR wrote re: Spring 2008 Knits Preview: Glam for Every Gal
on Thu, Jan 31 2008 6:30 AM
Your comments about these designs looking great on the stars is right on. Too right on. Most of them won't look all that great on the rest of us. This issue is definately geared towards the young and slim knitters out there. I'll look but won't knit any sweaters from this issue.
BeverlyB wrote re: Spring 2008 Knits Preview: Glam for Every Gal
on Thu, Jan 31 2008 6:41 AM
Sandi, there's some gorgy beaut stuff here. I'm looking forward to the magazine coming out here in the UK. Keep up the good work. Take care you
KatP wrote re: Spring 2008 Knits Preview: Glam for Every Gal
on Thu, Jan 31 2008 7:32 AM
As a plus size gal I looked at these patterns with the hopes that I could knit one or two of them up for myself. And I think I would look great in a couple of them. Each issue has patterns I dislike or wouldn't make for myself, it's a given - some I'll love some I'll not so I don't understand all the negativity posted. That said I seriously love that slouchy sweater that is a bonus web pattern. I will definitely put that in my que for knitting when it comes available. Can't wait for the magazine to arrive! Cause even if I don't knit ANY of the sweaters, I love to look and dream!
txkat
AveryK wrote re: Spring 2008 Knits Preview: Glam for Every Gal
on Thu, Jan 31 2008 8:44 AM
I was one of the posters who had negative comments. As I admitted in my post, I was disgruntled not to get any hints about what to try with the Sophisticated Rustic Jacket. And then, when I looked at the yarns chosen, most of them are yarns that I have never seen at either of my two favorite LYS, that I am not familiar with, and that look like they will be expensive. So this got tacked onto my yarn substitution frustration, which got tacked on to yet another frustration. I would have loved to knit the Matador Pattern, the Fall 2006 issue of Knitscene from which it comes cannot be backordered, and it is not for sale at the IK store (hint hint). Whereas the Sophisticated Rustic Jacket is in Interweave knits Spring 2002 issue which is available for backorder, and in fact is in my hands at this minute.

So maybe Sandy's post caught me at the wrong time. Still, even if you throw out my post, I think the comments, negative and positive, are all valid. What they show is that the IK readers are a diverse group. If every issue tried to please everyone, the magazine would be bland and dull. But there are ways of meeting minds: more diverse models, or putting ONE classic design in a forward-looking issue, and putting ONE fashion-trend conscious pattern in a classic issue. And I agree wholeheartedly with the brave male poster who commented on the dearth of patterns for men. The Dovetail Pullover is the only sweater that is remotely unisex.

But I will end THIS post with a positive comment. I am starting a sock class next week, and I really do like the Twisted Tulip Socks. They are beautiful and the yarn looks yummy.
JudiH wrote re: Spring 2008 Knits Preview: Glam for Every Gal
on Thu, Jan 31 2008 8:45 AM
Has IK ever done a survey of it's readers? What percentage of your readers are over 25, have gray hair or are plus size. How many of us would like to see patterns for husbands, sons and children? I am really pleased to see that we are not still looking at the same model featured in every issue and every book IK puts out but how about some older models and styles that might look good on others than just movie stars? Thanks Sandi for at least giving us a look at what knits look like on different shaped bodies.
Judi
Thomaselaskowski wrote re: Spring 2008 Knits Preview: Glam for Every Gal
on Thu, Jan 31 2008 8:48 AM
What a lovely issue! I have to say to all that complained, I am 53 and I see many lovely things to make in this issue.The Mirabella cardigan would look lovely on any shape, as would the Dovetail sweater, the lace stoles can be in any color and look good on ANYONE! The Twisted Tulip socks are a delight, and the Linen Trumpet Skirt would flatter any figure if you have the time to make such an ambitious project!Oh You of little faith, Sandi has shown you how differently things look, you've all admitted that the galleries changed your minds, grow up and learn to look for what is you in these projects!Mary L
AveryK wrote re: Spring 2008 Knits Preview: Glam for Every Gal
on Thu, Jan 31 2008 8:53 AM
I feel like Columbo coming back into the room and saying "one more thing":but I have one more posititve comment to make. I have a tall slender daughter who likes classic designs. The nice thing about this issue is that there are smaller sizes. She can wear a 32 or 34, but 36 is way too big. I will show her the pictures in the preview.

Kuaikuai
AnneG wrote re: Spring 2008 Knits Preview: Glam for Every Gal
on Thu, Jan 31 2008 10:15 AM
Well, I have to say that my first thought was UGH. My second is that they're not breaking any new ground here and there is nothing in this issue that I would make. All of these designs would probably look great on Eunny Jang. Eunny, what about the rest of us?! Will you please feature some designs that would look good on normal size and plus size people and show them on real people rather than on size 2 broomsticks? If designs such as these are what you're planning to offer going forward, I am sorry to say that I'm very disinclined to renew my subscription.

I agree with the person who commented about the expensive yarns called for. There is a LOT of less expensive (less than $7/ball) yarn out there - Knitpicks, Cascade, Patons come to mind - so why not feature those yarns? I love Rowan's Kidsilk Haze but come on, at $10/ball a sweater's worth for me would be over $100. Not gonna happen unless I win the Powerball!

Here's an idea: Put together an issue of designs for normal and plus sizes using less expensive yarns, and show them on attractive models of different sizes. I would definitely buy that issue!

The models in Big Girl Knits are gorgeous. Why don't you book them?
LisaB wrote re: Spring 2008 Knits Preview: Glam for Every Gal
on Thu, Jan 31 2008 10:52 AM
As one of the first "negative" commenters, I should expand on what I wanted to say.

While I like many of the patterns in this preview, and definitely will buy this issue to take a further look at those patterns, I can't help but feel frustrated at the lack of larger models, even after the many, many comments at KD asking for them.

Knitting a garment is not just a large investment of time and money, it's also a leap of faith: faith in the designer, faith in the technical editor, faith in my knitting abilities. Having an idea of what the finished garment looks like on a woman with a shape/build close to mine is a great, great help. Don't get me wrong, the galleries are FANTASTIC, it's just that because the sample garments are for slimmer women, they can't be pictured on women who look like me. If IK used a plus-size model every once in awhile, there could be a gallery showing how the garment fits on a variety of size-14 women.

Am I asking for the moon? Is there some reason that this can't be done? If designers are refusing to knit plus-size garments, or yarn companies are refusing to provide the amount of yarn necessary to knit a plus-sized garment, please let me know so I can adjust my buying habits accordingly.

Finally, I second Anne G above: The women in Big Girl Knits are gorgeous, and I'm sure Amy Swenson could hook you up with them.
Leah wrote re: Spring 2008 Knits Preview: Glam for Every Gal
on Thu, Jan 31 2008 11:50 AM
LA-LA-LA-LOVE IT! The only negative thing I noticed is that many of the sweaters look like different versions of the same concept. However, it is a concept I adore. I might suggest that those concerned about the sizing wait to see the galleries. As so many of them have shown, the same sweater in the magazine looks great on IK staffers of all sorts of sizes. Perhaps your follow-up post could also include some brainstorming on how some of these patterns might be adjusted or altered simply by having buttons go all the way down the length of the placket, lengthening pattern repeats, etc. This might even be a great time to introduce the much anticipated bust-dart tutorial. Lastly, yarn. Folks, yarn substitution is not scary. It isn't going to break anyone's budget to swatch an economical yarn to get the same guage as the yarn called for in the pattern. It was a hard lesson to learn, but gauge swatching is your friend.
GJabouri wrote re: Spring 2008 Knits Preview: Glam for Every Gal
on Thu, Jan 31 2008 12:27 PM
Hi all,

Again, I have to second Lisa's comments. While I appreciate the added info on ease on some of the garments, it would still be such a service to see them pictured on larger models. If you are not going to put these in the magazine, it would be nice to at least have a web address to a gallery of these garments shown on different-sized models. Even though this would still make me feel like a wallflower (God forbid a "glam" magazine should show bigger women models). It seems strange to me that a magazine would limit itself this way. After all, women of 14+ sizes are a very large (pun sort of intended) demographic group.
JulieE wrote re: Spring 2008 Knits Preview: Glam for Every Gal
on Thu, Jan 31 2008 1:27 PM
Great patterns! I think I will renew my subscription (I got lazy and didn't renew it last year). As for yarn substitutions, now is the time to remember to be a fearless knitter! I have never knit a pattern using the yarn it called for. Trust me, if I can do it, so can you!
JessicaG wrote re: Spring 2008 Knits Preview: Glam for Every Gal
on Thu, Jan 31 2008 1:52 PM
I'm feeling a bit of love/hate right now. I LOVE all the items in the new issue and hate that it doesn't hit news stands until 2/19. Sigh...it gives me something to dream about over the next few weeks. As a younger knitter, I love that the garments are flirty and fun, which makes it perfect for spring. In the winter issue, I only found two items that I'd consider knitting. I'm very much anticipating the arrival of the spring IK. Thanks for the preview Sandi!
EleanorM wrote re: Spring 2008 Knits Preview: Glam for Every Gal
on Thu, Jan 31 2008 2:03 PM
I checked out the Spring 2008 preview, and they say that the Ladylike gloves from Feb. 2007 is available free, however, the archive doesn't go back that far. Can you please make that pattern available? I would love to make those gloves. My daughter attends Cotillion and has to wear white gloves. The Ladylike gloves would be wonderful for her.
Thanks so much for your help!
Eleanor
EllenD wrote re: Spring 2008 Knits Preview: Glam for Every Gal
on Thu, Jan 31 2008 4:12 PM
Ah, I see you got the word that Tilda's last name is Swinton and not Swanson.
HarmonyO wrote re: Spring 2008 Knits Preview: Glam for Every Gal
on Fri, Feb 1 2008 2:07 AM
I think the idea to survey who your customers REALLY are AND whom they knit for - age, sex, size - is a good approach. Are we 50+yrs and 16+ size 50% or more of your readership? Or are we just more vocal? Does there need to be another mag to address another demographic? Has there ever been a mag that EVEN ASKED it's customers what they think? I don't think so! So thank you Euny, Sandi, Ms Founder (sorry, forget her name), et al for funding Knitting Daily AND for listening to your customers! Nanette S, Eugene, Oregon
HattieH wrote re: Spring 2008 Knits Preview: Glam for Every Gal
on Fri, Feb 1 2008