The Expectant Knitter: 30 Designs for Baby and Your Growing Family

I ordered this book after a lot of research. I try to stick to free patterns on ravelry but was willing to splurge on a book or two of baby patterns since I have my first on the way in June and I liked almost every design in this book. Unfortunately, I have put off several projects I hoped to make because rather than being written in the round, they are worked flat and seamed! This is totally unnecessary and simply creates extra work and seam lines on dresses and pants. So, until I can work out the modifications needed to turn these patterns to in-the-round projects, I'll be working on more free ravelry projects. Also, the adorable romper is designed with no leg/crotch opening, meaning you'd have to take the whole thing off to change a diaper! Again, not willing to make it until I can work out the mods.If you don't mind seaming, however, get this book. The dress I really want to make is so adorable, I am willing to rework the pattern. There are some really sweet projects that need less tweaking like the diaper cover (which needs to be shortened for a newborn) and the matinee sweater which I haven't needed to adjust yet at all. Also, it has a large variety of projects that feature a range of techniques. This means projects for beginning and advanced knitters.

I'm giving this book 3 stars because 1. it is very well put together. 2. the instructions are very very clear. 3. It is hard cover and will last forever. BUT..... I will honestly only maybe knit two patterns from this book. Most the patterns just did nothing to entice me or were very, very dated.

The book is old! 1 page missing!

I loved this book it did not have as many patterns in it as I wanted it to. Well it did but a lot of them seem to be ones you can find very similar ones on line. Other than that I really liked it.

This is a great book for beginner level on up if you are looking for nice classic patterns for babies. I really cannot say enough good things about the gorgeous patterns in the book. As a knitter, I have a difficult time finding books where I like more than one or two patterns. I can honestly say I would like to make majority in this book.From the simple classic baby blanket, to the personalized pinwheel styled blanket all are unique and would be wonderful for your own child or a gift.I personally purchased this book to make a few of the sweaters for the little girls in my life, but will preview all patterns below. The first sweater that caught my eye was a gorgeous baby cardigan that ties shut with a ribbon. There is also an adorable baby dress that turns into a shirt for up to a 3-4 year old as she grows, and a wonderful ballet neck sweater for a toddler to age 8 pattern.Unlike many other books that I have considered purchasing this book also has some really cute boy patterns as well. The simple cable knit sweater vest, and hooded "big brother" sweater, and brimmed summer hat are my favorites for the boys.Diaper covers, leg warmers, summer rompers for both boys and girls, a winter romper, pants and coordinating tops for boys and girls, christening gown, socks, hats, knit toys, washcloths, diaper covers and even a dog sweater complete this book.Truly a must have if you enjoy knitting baby gifts (and for toddlers too).