The Eclectic Sole; Socks for Adventurous Knitters by Janel Laidman Summary and Reviews
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Book Reviews of The Eclectic Sole; Socks for Adventurous Knitters
Book Review: Eclectic Sole - Used
Summary: 5 Stars
This book is full of very unique sock patterns that I and my friends had not seen anywhere else - definitely worth getting -even for the experienced sock knitter. Very innovative. My used copy was like new.Book Review: Gorgeous Socks
Summary: 4 Stars
There were 4 patterns in the book that I immediately ordered yarn to knit. I love the LOOK of the patterns, but upon knitting some of them, I have found the directions to be lacking or unclear in spots and there are points where the design, though very pretty to look at, is not practical...I give you Hypnosis!Book Review: Gorgeous designs but instructions lack size info
Summary: 4 Stars
"The Eclectic Sole" is one of the most original books of sock design out there. Laidman's designs are elegant and unusual. "Rivendell," for example, is based on a series of ribs with sets of intertwined buds rising from them onto the leg. It's knitting as sculpture. Although "Rivendell" is definitely the star of the book, Laidman's other designs are wonderful too. Her designs definitely rate 5 stars.
But there is one major problem with the book. As good as Laidman is about providing instructions for different techniques, she neglects to give even basic information about the size of the finished socks. Unlike feet, her patterns come in one size only, and she doesn't give any information about what that size is. Yes, there is gauge information, but it's given in stockinette. But most of the socks aren't knit in stockinette, so that doesn't help much, especially if you want to know the sock's circumference. This makes it very hard to know if pattern is likely to fit your foot or whether it needs to be modified. If you have average size feet, you'll probably be ok. But if you don't, be prepared to do some major pattern fiddling and experimentation, especially for sculptural patterns like "Rivendell."
All in all, this is a good book. But a little more sizing information could have made it great.
Book Review: Great Book
Summary: 5 Stars
While this book is, price-wise, not on the cheap side it does have a very clear techniques chapter. It offers 14 sock patterns that are from simple to complicated and knitting in different directions - toe-up, cuff-down and sideways. Lace and colorwork are also included. It is an inspiration for designing one's own socks - after having knitted those in the book!Book Review: Great book!
Summary: 5 Stars
This is a great sock pattern book. I love the laidback style of the author; it gives me confidence to knit the patterns. If you have the first edition, please go here http://www.rustlingleafpress.com/errata.htm for all the corrections. The errors have been corrected on the second edition. I've already selected a yarn by Indie Dyer for the wonderful "Hypnosis" socks. Highly recommended.