QuailBook, Winter, A4

Beginner alert! I was excited when my copy arrived. Very nice photographs and yes the knits are simple enough. However, I realise I should have paid more attention to the phrase "exquisite yarns" from Rowan in the blurb. Rowan yarns are indeed exquisite but they are expensive -a bit of a risk for a beginner. Some of the patterns require knitting two strands of two ply together - a bit daunting for a beginner who sometimes drops the odd stitch with a single strand of DK.. One or two of the yarns recommended have been discontinued. I've spent my first afternoon with this book looking through yarn substitutions, checking stitch numbers for tension squares etc. It is a lovely book but if you're a beginner, on a bit of a budget, just be aware that these knits are not quite as simple a project as you might have hoped for.

Not disappointed: There are at least 4 out of the 12 knits I definitely plan to knit for this coming winter. The patterns are simple to execute and in my opinion very stylish and relaxed. There is an abundance of designer photos posed by models to illustrate the finished garment which I appreciate. Sometimes knitting patterns look old-fashioned and no effort goes into their presentation but not in this collection. The name "Winter ESSENTIAL knits" is appropriate as there is a whole winter capsule wardrobe featured which is a nice way to present patterns. The 12 designs feature a variety of corresponding yarns by Rowan so you can source the right yarn. Quality not quantity.

I actually love this book. Even thou most of the knits are quite plain they are really good shapes and to be honest you could add any pattern you like to any of them. I will certainly be making a few from this book. Arrived so quickly.

I only liked two items in this book the rest were so boring; very simple, quintessential looking jumpers.

Good patterns easy to follow

Lots of lovely knits in this book, can't wait to get started.

Excellent have you one for men

I am eager to start on one of these projects, the difficulty is deciding which to do first.