Doggy Knits: Over 20 Coat Designs for Handsome Hounds And Perfect Pooches

by Anna Tillman

Are you an avid knitter as well as a loving dog owner? Do you see pets wearing gorgeous designs in magazines and on television and wish you could use your knitting talent to indulge your pooch? Doggy Knits invites you to join the millions of dog owners who have learned how to adorn their pets in striking fashions. This book features step-by-step instructions that show you how to produce 20 fabulous sweaters, jackets, coats, and even leg warmers! This book also offers a variety of useful tips on knitting techniques, including the right way to hold the needles and yarn, the correct way to measure your dog, and easy finishing touches for each project. Each featured design comes with a full-color photo to illustrate the ideal look and displays close-ups of details to ensure a brilliant result with every creation. Whether you are an expert or a novice, Doggy Knits provides the tools you need to dress your dog with incredible style.

Genres: Knitting

128 pages, Paperback

First published October 1, 2006

Reviews

[Rebekka Steg · Rating 2 out of 5]

I really wasn't impressed with this book of doggie knits. The author treats all dogs the same, ignoring the fact that there are many specific body types which affects which styles are suitable for different breeds. Frequently the coats ended up looking ridiculous on the dog pictured, and completely unsuitable for their stated purpose. No instructions are given on how to customise the patterns to suit your dog, and furthermore the author frequently uses cotton for coats supposedly for outdoor use which is a horrible idea, as when it gets wet it gets heavy and makes the dog colder than it would've been without the coat in the first place (wool is a much better choice as it can absorb up to 30% of its weight in water without even feeling wet). Many of the designs were simply variations of the same pattern - it felt like the author was trying to reach a specific number of patterns without having to put too much effort in. Furthermore the weight of the yarn isn't given in any of the patterns, making it more difficult to find reasonable substitutes - something that is clearly intentional as the author heavily discourages any substitutes.

[Kelly (Maybedog) · Rating 3 out of 5]

The stitched fabrics were interesting and sometimes beautiful (like the one on the cover), but the shapes of the coats weren't that varied. One of the most common designs looked like it would slide off. The one on the cover looks like it would hinder walking ability. One good thing, though, was that the sizing went up fairly large--not huge, but for at least medium sized dogs.

3.5 stars rounded down because it just didn't feel like a four star book.

[Ligaya · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really liked this book, and I've read a ton of books on dog sweaters (and cat accessories, favorite: Cats in Hats.) I thought the coats were fairly creative besides the book just being nicely designed with adorable photographs. That said, I didn't look at the pattern instructions carefully and can't speak to the accuracy of the pattern writing. Additionally, I think most all dog sweater patterns need adjustment (the front leg spacing is always of particular concern) and assume I'll have to refigure that on my own anyway. That, and the fact that I most always change things up somehow someway. So, perhaps, more correctly, this book is a good inspiration book! Lol. I was so impressed that I just bought a copy off eBay!

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

i got this book for christmas and it was one of my favorite gifts. there are so many cute patterns for dogs. i have not knit one yet, but plan to start late summer/ early fall so my girls will have something ready for winter next year!

[Kerry · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was too cute!

[Leslie Jem · Rating 2 out of 5]

Too artsy for my taste.