[.ca] Celtic Knits: Over 25 Designs for Babies, Children and ... (ISBN 1570762252)

gorgeous patterns:
This book is full of gorgeous patterns and beautiful photography. The patterns all present some form of cabling, fair isle or lace. However, those looking for traditional Scottish or Irish patterns shoud look elsewhere, perhaps opting for Starmore instead- Bliss has only inspired herself with the techniques of the British Isles and has adapted them for more modern wear. The patterns look very appealing, thought I must admit to being a big fan of the Debbie Bliss esthetic.

not inspirational:
This book is geared more towards the beginner, as the variety and patterns in this book are not really inspirational to more experienced knitters. This is quite a let down of a book, although there are a few pieces I may someday knit.

Celtic? Nah:
What a lovely book this is, full of happy blond children lavishly photographed amidst charmingly rustic settings. However, the knitwear they're modeling, although clean-lined and attractive, isn't "Celtic" at all. Yes, there is one Aran-ish tunic in the collection, but unless you are a thirteen-year-old, it won't fit you. A terrific disappointment!

Again, a beautiful book from Debbie Bliss.:
I keep reviewing books by Debbie Bliss. And I find myself saying the same things over and over. This book is no exception. The pictures are just lovely. Debbie Bliss's knitting books can serve as coffee table books for knitters. The layout is just delightful to look at. The patterns are for classic items that can be worn for years. However, having yet to knit anything from this particular book, I can't say anything about the difficulty of the patterns themselves. I would expect that they are similar to other books by this author. I generally make sure that I go over a Debbie Bliss pattern more than once before I start knitting. Often, having an experienced knitter look at it can be useful as well. However, whether you are a novice or an experienced knitter, you will enjoy looking at this book, even if you never knit from it. We have watched Debbie Bliss's kids grow up in the pages of her books--they are two of her models for the clothing found in this book again. Which brings me to one of the other joys of a Debbie Bliss book. The knitted items are pictured being worn by real people, not fashion models. I think it really helps you to picture the finished item on a normal person in a normal pose. Not a model posed to make the sweater look as nice as possible, while the person wearing it is contorted into some very funny stance!

A Little Bland:
As is true for all of Debbie Bliss' books, Celtic Knits contains beautiful photos and an attractive, accessible layout. Celtic Knits has a pretty good variety of patterns - mostly adults, but also a few child and baby patterns. Be warned, however, that the women's patterns seem to run on the small side; you might have to adapt if you want to make other sizes. Unfortunately, many of the patterns seem either (a) like a great many other patterns you've seen lately, or (b) nice, but not particularly Celtic. I think the theory is that the colors used in the designs are supposed to have a Celtic 'mood,' but I just don't see it. Debbie Bliss' usual creative spark seems somewhat absent from this book. The one pattern that really stands out is the Aran long-line tunic. This sweater, to me, at least, strikes a charming balance between traditional Aran knitting and a contemporary feel. The color, a sort of mauve-y rose, and the long shaping combine for a feminine, cuddly appeal. With few other exceptions, the rest of the designs are unremarkable, if elegant and beautifully made. They would be perfectly at home under any title other than Celtic Knits. In sum, if you're looking for unique Aran and Fair Isle designs, there are better resources out there (e.g., Alice Starmore).