Adventure Cables

NetGalley Review: 5 stars

Review Last Updated 31 Mar 2021

"Fantastic cable knit book! I really loved the pictures throughout, and the step by step tutorials. Most of the patterns are pretty cute and modern. The book may be a bit confusing for a novice, but is a great option for anyone with experience knitting, who desires to try some new and beautiful patterns. This is partly because knitting charts and patterns can be rather confusing to read and learn from as a beginner, and I have found that videos are easier to learn from then books, but this book certainly contains more step by step visuals than most I have read."

— Kate Z. Consumer Reviewer

NetGalley Review: 4 stars

Last updated on 10 Apr 2021

"Adventure Cables - Brave New Stitch Crossings and 19 Knitting Patterns by Meghan Jones is clearly a work of love by a very creative designer and expert knitter. Let me say right off that this is not a book for a novice knitter or the faint of heart but it is a book for knitters who love cables and complex patterns, and are looking to expand to that next level.

"I like how the author explains her cable charts which differ from standard knitting charts. The difference is due to the fact that most cable patterns are just stockinette stitches that are crossed. This book’s patterns have cables with unique and complex stitches on the cable itself, thus the cable pattern is shown on a key adjacent to the chart.

"The garments are lovely and ones that anyone would be proud to make and wear. My favorites are the Tekoa Mittens, the Karamin Hat, and the Point Defiance Pullover. I can’t wait to see these garments in the “wild” in a variety of colors and yarns. (I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy and all opinions are my own.)"

— Cynthia Smith, consumer reviewer

NetGalley Review: 5 stars

Last updated on 29 Apr 2021

"When life for the entire galaxy and planet has turned on its end, you are continuing to #maskup and #lockdown to be in #COVID19 #socialisolation as the #thirdwave ( #fourthwave #fifthwave?) is upon us, superspeed readers like me can read 300+ pages/hour, so yes, I have read the book … and many more today.

"I requested and received a temporary digital Advance Reader Copy of this book from #NetGalley, the publisher and the author in exchange for an honest review.

"From the publisher, as I do not repeat the contents or story of books in reviews, I let them do it as they do it better than I do .

"In this exploration of cable knitting, Meghan Jones goes way beyond your traditional cables. Instead of stopping the overall patterning of the garment when she reaches the cables, she continues the stitch pattern through the cables, working lace, textures, colorwork, and even cables over top of other cables. It is truly an innovative approach to cables and one that will have you drooling with the possibilities.

"Meghan Jones has a BFA in Fibers and Textiles with graduating work on a Compu-Dobby loom and Japanese wax resist natural dyes, and past experience in painting, drawing, photography, and handcrafts. She lives and knits with her husband and their 4 children in the Inland Northwest where she tries to balance her love of knit design with nurturing a massive vegetable garden, cooking exciting meals, and parenting as intentionally as possible. Meghan has been designing knitting patterns for over a decade. She has worked extensively with magazines and yarn companies, and this is her first published book. In a twist of irony, she absolutely hated the only summer camp she was ever sent to and begged her parents never to send her back! This is not actually a secret to anyone who knows her, as organized activities are her nemesis and she would rather blaze a trail than follow a path.

"You can find more of her work at www.littlenutmegproductions.com and on Instagram @meghanjoneslnmp.

"I once had to learn to "cable" for work .. seriously.....that's what you get for working PT in a yarn/knitting store to help pay off your student loans I saw that I had had this book when I was learning how to cable as it would have saved me a lot of hair and yarn pulling out. The instructions are clear and concise and understandable by knitters of most levels...although I would not put cable on the plate for newbie knitters as it can be very frustrating. I actually put away my sewing projects last night to pick up my needles and take up knitting again but time will tell if those cats allow me to do so.

"This book will be highly recommended to the knitters I know as there are some great patterns in here to try out - especially if you have a dog who has no interest in yarn. This book, along with some needles and yarn or wool would make a great holiday gift for the crafter in your life!

"As always, I try to find a reason to not rate with stars as I simply adore emojis (outside of their incessant use by "-ed Social Influencer Millennials/#BachelorNation survivors/Tik-Tok and YouTube Millionaires/snowflakes / literally-like-overusers etc. " on Instagram and Twitter... Get a real job, people!) so let's give it [5 skeins of yarn] ?"

—Janet Pole Cousineau, Librarian at A.E.M.S. Library/ Community Kitchen

NetGalley Review: 5 stars

Last updated 27 May 2021

"Adventure Cables is more than a collection of instructions and patterns. This is a guide to creating fiber art, for there are no other words to describe Meghan Jones’ creations.

“I think my favorite thing about knitting is that there really isn’t any one totally right way to do it” is the first sentence in Adventure Cables. Jones has invented a technique where cabling is done by twisting already established stitch patterns across the row, with or without cable needles. Experienced knitters may be challenged but Jones has anticipated that. The charts are detailed with easy to understand explanations. Each pattern also includes step-by-step tutorials. The beautifully photographed sweater, shawl, socks, hat and mittens patterns are organized by skill level, beginning with the easiest. Adventure Cables, full of creative projects, is inspiring and will take your knitting skills to another level. 5 stars.

"Thank you to NetGalley, Rowman & Littlefield and Meghan Jones for this AR"

--Kathleen Hughes, Consumer Reviewer

NetGalley Review: 5 stars

Last updated 28 May 2021

"A beautiful and inspiring book! I appreciated the author's encouragement to explore, experiment. She starts with the premise that cable stitches are basically just stitches know out of order and invites the reader to imagine ways to rearrange them to come up with a new order and see what happens. She asks up to pose variations on the question - what if? What would it look like if I...? How would it look to....?

"She presents patterns in 3 skill levels - Explore (simple knit and purl patterns), Adventure (adds increases, decreases, and slip stitches), and Be Brave (crossed stitches and stranded color). She provides detailed instructions with clear photos that address reading charts, short rows, and other techniques. The book includes a variety of patterns - socks, hats, and mittens, shawls and wraps, pullovers, cardigans, and vests. Highly recommend for any knitter wanting to take their knitting to the next level. # NetGalley."

--Linda Van Sistine-Yost, Librarian at Western Technical College and Taft College

NetGalley Review: 5 stars

Last updated on 29 May 2021

"Mind-blowing is a good description of this book. Wow, holy cable moly! Amazingly detailed and advanced book. I gave up on knitting sweaters a while back because I lack the patience and fortitude required and the sweater patterns in here would require a lot of each of those things. I will definitely try out some of the smaller items, though. There are some lovely sock, mitten, hat, and cowl patterns in here I can see in my future."

--J Bush, Reviewer at SQLKitty

NetGalley Review: 5 stars

Last updated on 01 Jun 2021

"Adventure Cables takes traditional knitted cables and Jones’ unique twist to create unique fabric and designs. This book builds on five core types of crossed stitches and offers both accessories and garments that showcase the updated technique. It is a book that expects some experience in knitting, but I think beginners would be delighted to see what possibilities exist after proficiency in basic core skills. If you are an experienced knitter looking for novel ways to work cables, I believe that this book will delight you.

"Don’t worry if you have forgotten how to successfully knit from a chart, the first section of the book is dedicated to tips and tutorials to help you work them successfully. After basic charts are covered, Jones delves into what makes Adventure Cable charts unique and what is needed to successfully read and work these special stitches.

"The range of pattern types helps this be a book that will appeal to a range of knitters – if you like to work accessories in the round, there are designs for you. Prefer to work flat? It has you covered. Primarily a sweater knitter? There are patterns for you as well, designed to adapt to a range of body sizes and gauges.

"Which designs caught my eye? The Palouse Falls Shawl features textured lace Adventure Cables that move over a lacy background. I love that it begins with a cast on of only 4 stitches! The Goose Prairie Vest uses simple A-line shaping to highlight the orate cabled cable design and looks stunning in a subtle tonal semi-solid yarn. I love the balance of this design and really want to start knitting it right now. The Tekoa Mittens check all the boxes, mirrored design, fun geometric design, and is stunning in fun color combinations.

"Adventure Cables by Meghan Jones can help you experience knit cables in exciting new ways."

--Penny Shima-Glanz reviewer at Penguin Girl

NetGalley Review: 5 stars

Last updated on 16 Jun 2021

"I was able to preview "Adventure Cables-Brave New Stitch Crossings and 19 Knitting Patterns" by Meghan Jones on NetGalley. As a knitter I am always happy to see new knitting books come out. I love the look of cables so I was instantly intrigued. The instructions are so clear & concise with pictures to help. I think this would make a great addition to any knitter's library."

—Stacy Olson, Consumer Reviewer

NetGalley Review: 5 stars

Last updated on 06 Jul 2021

"Adventure Cables is an epic collection of patterns for anyone ready to advance their Cable knitting skills, even if you have never tried Cable knitting before don't worry, Megan Jones Adventure Cables has a ton of instructional tutorials and tips to successful cable knitting with patterns ranging from Socks to shawls there is a pattern for everyone!"

—Deirdre Williams, Consumer Reviewer

NetGalley Review: 5 stars

Last updated on 15 Jul 2021

"I received an ARC of this book to read through NetGalley. All opinions are my own. Adventure Cables ~ Brave new Stitch Crossings by Meghan Jones is a collection of nineteen knitting patterns, including hats, mittens, sweaters, cardigans, wraps, cowls, and socks. All the patterns feature cables, but some also include lace, colourwork and mosaic knitting. The patterns are all modelled by women, but I feel that several of them would work as unisex patterns. The sizing includes bust sizes up to 70 in / 178cm, and tips for making alterations to size are included. The author includes clear instructions for different techniques, well-written pattern instructions and charts and lovely photographs. The patterns range from beginner to advanced. I enjoyed the chance to get a sneak peek at this book and have been pondering my stash because several of the patterns have me wanting to dive in and cast on. Publishing Date: September 1, 2021. #AdventureCables #MeghanJones #RowmanAndLittlefield #StackpoleBooks #KnittingBooks #KnittingPatternBooks #CableKnitting #HandKnittingPatternBooks #bookstagram #bookstagrammer #NetGalley" —Norah Gibbons, reviewer at historicalromancemagazine.com

NetGalley Review: 4 stars

Last updated on 15 Jul 2021

"I very much enjoyed this knitting book. The pictures and graphics are bright and colourful and show the details that I need in a pattern book. I love to knit cables and really like the idea of adding a little more adventure into the process. I tested out a few of the patterns, just knitting the cable charts into swatches since I wasn't in the mood for a full sweater or shawl. The patterns I tried were really lovely and easy to follow.

I really appreciate that the designer describes how to do the cables both with or without a cable needle. I highly recommend trying to learn to do it without a third needle because some of these patterns have multiple cable stitches on every single line of the chart and you will waste a lot of time with the third needle. I also love that there are picture tutorials for specific unique stitches. Some of the "Adventure Cables" didn't really make sense to me when just reading the description, but then the clear, colourful pictures helped me to understand exactly what the pattern was saying.

The idea of adding colourwork or texture into the cables of a pattern is really creative. Creating larger cables using smaller cables as the links makes for some really amazing looking chains. I loved that each different section of the book had patterns for beginners as well as more advanced knitters, and clearly labelled them as such. I think this would be a great pattern book for a new knitter looking to get started with cabling, or for a more advanced knitter looking to try something a little more complicated than their usual cables." —Amanda Hayes, consumer reviewer

NetGalley Review: 5 stars

Last updated on 31 Jul 2021

"The first thing that grabs me about this. book is the pictures of plus-size models - bravo!

The book is filled with wonderful knitting charts, interspersed with tutorials for various techniques. Patterns are scaled in difficulty from Explore level (Intermediate), Adventure level (Advanced Intermediate) and Be Brave level (Experienced). The Introduction gives the reader a nice tutorial in how to read knitting charts and cable charts in particular. Each pattern is very detailed and easy to read with color photography depicting how the stitches are held on the needles, as well as multiple photos of each finished project. Excellent!"—Kerrie Hoar, reviewer at JustOneMoreChapter

NetGalley Review: 5 stars

Last updated on 13 Aug 2021

"This was a great book for learning Meghan Jones' method of cabling. This book has great full color photos illustrating the tutorials which make it very clear how to do it without using a cable needle.

There are 20 patterns including sweaters, shawls, hats, socks etc. The patterns are also size inclusive up to 70 inch chest. They are also clearly labeled the level of skill needed. Meghan really gives me the knowledge to tackle the cables in her patterns. There are so many pretty items I don't know which to do first.

I cannot find any faults with this book as it is simply great."—Joyce Gravino, reviewer at Whoever Has The Most Books Wins

NetGalley Review: 5 stars

Last updated on 18 Aug 2021

"Adventure Cables is a fresh look at cables alone and in combination with other knitting techniques designed by Meghan Jones. Due out 1st Sept 2021 from Rowman & Littlefield on their Stackpole Books imprint, it's 208 pages and will be available in paperback and ebook formats.

This is a colorful, well designed, graphically appealing book full of knitted cablework with symmetric and asymmetric surface manipulated stitches in combination with colorwork, mosaic, stranded stitches and several other techniques. The author has an easy-to-understand style and the cable design instructions are given in both written and charted versions. In addition, the author has filled the book with useful tips and tricks for saving time (and sanity) during knitting. For me, the extra tips and guidance was worth the price of the book in addition to all the really pretty and deceptively difficult looking designs.

The introduction covers some basic techniques, but the book presupposes a general familiarity with the *basic* knitting techniques: how to read a chart/instructions, cast-on/off, knit, purl, working in the round, increase/decrease, shaping, short row shaping, and similar. I wouldn't say that this book is beyond beginners, but it would be best to have a knitting friend/guru to consult in case of confusion. Actually, I strongly recommend having a knitting friend no matter *what* level of expertise one is.

The technique chapters which follow the introduction are full of short technique mini-tutorials on reading charts, reading the individual charts in this book, cabling without a cable needle (where feasible), gauge alterations & sizing, and picking up stitches around an armhole. Mini tutorials are explained well and contain multiple clear color photos showing the technique with stitches on the needle without the model's fingers in the way (hallelujah!).

The following chapters contain the full patterns, grouped thematically: crossings with texture stitches, crossings with lace stitches, crossings with cabled stitches, mosaic, and stranded stitches. Each chapter contains 3-5 individual full projects as well as an in-depth tutorial mini-class highlighting a technique used in the chapter. Patterns contain multiple color pictures of each project and shaping/pattern details also have clear illustrations to follow. Instructions contain tools and supplies in a bullet style list (measurements are given in inches and metric measurements - thank you!) followed by step-by-step instructions and necessary charts. Specified yarn descriptions for each pattern also contain yardage/meter measures so readers can substitute if desired. The difficulty is listed in the pattern (explore/intermediate, adventure/advanced intermediate, and be brave/experienced).

There are socks, wraps, pullovers, accessories, and shawls aplenty and they all have moderate to huge wow factor. These are the sort of projects knitters make and wear to those knitting-get-togethers and knitting fairs (you know we do). I love that the projects are photographed on a wide variety of body types and the models are a wide range of ages. They're definitely not all waifish and willowy, photographed on an Irish coast looking off into the middle distance over the waves (yes, Rowan, I'm looking at you).

I knitted up several swatches preparatory to settling on one project, and I didn't find any mistakes in the instructions (I had one hiccup and that was user error on my part).

Five stars. This is one of the better knitting books I've read this year.

Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes."—Annie Buchanan, reviewer at nonstopreaderbooks