Musings by Knitwits - Sweet Shawlettes by Jean Moss

Published: January 2012

Publisher: Taunton Press Inc

Pages: 144

e-copy: Netgalley and publisher

Summary: Goodreads

Shawlettes are the new socks! These hugely popular, fashion accessories are worn about the shoulders and meant for showing off. They're not only stylish but these budget-friendly pieces make for perfect portable projects. International knitwear designer Jean Moss knows this best and has pulled together a wonderfully creative collection of 25 knitting patterns for shawlettes, mini-wraps cowls, collars, and more. The garments are grouped by style: Country, Couture, Folk, and Vintage, and feature gorgeous yarns of varying content, including wool, silk, cotton, and sustainable fibers. Knitters of all levels will draw inspiration from the gorgeous four-color photos. Additionally helpful are illustrations, charts, schematics and an appendix with instructions for special stitches. Shawlettes can be endlessly reinterpreted in beautiful ways as this book shows. It's one that will capture knitters' imaginations for years to come.

One of Britain's leading designers, JEAN MOSS is known worldwide for her distinctive couture knits. A writer, gardener, and musician living in York, England, she has created her own collections of handknits for more than 25 years. She's also designed for Rowan Yarns and many international fashion houses including Ralph Lauren, Laura Ashley, and Benetton. She hosts knitters' tours and teaches widely in Europe and North America.


'Sweet Shawlettes' is a fun book that has just about everything in the way of an accessory that can be worn aroung the neck or the shoulders. So what makes this different from all the other knitting books that are around right now.  Well, this one seems to me to be aimed at younger knitters.  There is a little more colour and the designs are just a little more contemporary than those that are usually seen. 

There is a wonderful little capelet with a leopard print, a colourful lacy shawl, a vamp boa, and many other intriguing and colourful designs.  There are some for the beginner and also some more complex designs for those knitters who enjoy a bit of a challenge.  There's even a couple of knitted necklaces for a bit of a change.  'Sweet Shawlettes' would be a wonderful addition to any knitters library.