Diane Schmdit - Tops & Toes

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In this book, youll find three easy-to-navigate sections: Tops, Toes and Sets. In the front of the book, you will find an extensive Special Techniques section that were sure youll consider an invaluable resource. If youre a newcomer to sock knitting, this section will help you understand each technique, step-by-step. If youre a more seasoned knitter, you may pick up a new way of working a familiar technique.

In the Tops section, youll be impressed by the variety of hat patterns for babies, kids and adults. These projects are simple, cleverly creative and approachable for knitters of every level. Need to make a gift on the fly? The Spring Has Sprung Hat, made in stockinette stitch with appliqud flower accents, makes for the perfect last-minute gift, sure to impress everyone.

Need to add a little excitement to those feet? Weve selected some unexpected approaches to the basic sock shape in our Toes selections. For the new sock knitter, the Simple Self-Striping Socks make the perfect first project. Or, add some pep to your step with the Playful Polka Dot Socks.

If you need to find the perfect shower gift, our Sets collection offers a generous selection of matching hat and sock patterns. For a girl or a boy, the Three Times a Charm Hat & Booties Set is sure to inspire you. The cute ear flap hat and matching booties are designed using interchangeable elements to really help you make this project one-of-a-kind.

So, pick up those needles, and start knitting some Tops & Toes!

Wishing you happy, fun-filled hours of knitting!

Kara Gott Warner, Editor

17 sts and 24 rows = 4 inches in St st with larger needles.

To save time, take time to check gauge.

The flowers that embellish the hat are cut from a wool sweater that has been felted. To do this, take an old 100 percent (non-superwash) wool sweater, put it through the hot cycle on your washing machine, and then place in the dryer. The sweater will become shrunken and felted and may be cut into decorative shapes without danger of fraying. If you prefer, you may use craft felt or another non-fraying fabric. Test for colorfastness by washing before use.

With smaller needles and MC, cast on 45 (54, 63, 72) sts. Distribute sts evenly on 3 dpns; place marker for beg of rnd and join, taking care not to twist sts.