Conscious Crafts: Knitting—20 Mindful Makes to Reconnect Head, Heart & Hands

Kludje and Koranteng, co-founders of the Black Girl Knit Club, showcase projects to soothe the mind in this charming pattern book. They set out to “enhance and bring out various types of experiences as you create these 20 makes for different areas of your life that will spark joy and value your inner calm” and easily succeed with simple yet attractive projects for one’s home and wardrobe. They cover the basics of necessary tools and intro stitches, then get into the projects: there’s an earth-toned striped bath mat, a creative red and white pom-pom Christmas wreath, some colorful plant-pot cozies, as well as striped mittens, a rib-twist headband, and a unique fringed scarf. Each pattern comes with a positive affirmation—“I seek progress over perfection, and community over competition,” for instance—and all are accompanied by photos. The authors do newbies the favor of outlining each step from cast-on to finishing techniques, and first-time knitters will feel confident in getting started. This is perfect for readers looking to use crafts as a break from the daily hustle and bustle. (Mar.)