Knitting is no longer just for old hands

BALTIMORE SUN
Despite the recent increase in the hipness of knitting (Julia Roberts and Russell Crowe are reportedly devoted to the craft), it still has the reputation in some circles as a grandmotherly type of endeavor. A new book will definitely change that perception.
Knitting Pretty by Kris Percival (Chronicle Books, 120 pages, $19.95) features 30 projects for the novice knitter that go beyond the traditional potholder and mitten route. Perhaps your boyfriend needs a hand-knit beer cozy or your best friend could use a cell-phone holder.
Convinced that it's too warm to take up the woolly craft? Don't be. One of our favorite projects in this hip, easy-to-follow book is a colorful knit halter top that goes together quickly and looks modern and daring. This barely-there top is not only summery, it's about as far away from grandmotherly as a hand-knit item can get.