Even the most dedicated knitter gets tired of making clothes. Fortunately, plenty of other things deserve knitted adornment as well -- especially items for the home.

Home accessory designs have evolved nicely since the poodle-shaped golf club cover patterns of the '50s. Most recently, Erika Knight published a collection of knitted items for the home, entitled, "Comforts of Home: Simple Knitted Accents."

With an aesthetic somewhere between Pottery Barn and Garnet Hill, the patterns have an overall natural look. The simple lines are matched with subdued, basic colors. Photography is lush.

Distinctly Rowan

Part of the book's aesthetic is derived from the fact that all the yarns used are from Rowan or Jaeger. The only exceptions are non-yarn items such as sisal, string, and shredded rags.

Rowan yarns tend to be subdued, with foggy-day colors and consistent textures. You'll find few slubs, lashes, or sparkles here -- just steady tones.

Under the Covers

There are 18 patterns total. My favorite is the Squares Throw using Rowan Chunky Soft. One of my favorite sweaters is made of Rowan Chunky Soft. The idea of being able to wrap myself in that very same yarn is almost too good to be true.

Unfortunately, the pattern requires 35 balls of yarn that retails for $8.95 per skein, upping the total to $315.

Other patterns include simple garter stitch cushions, a throw with beaded fringe, table runners, and huge floor cushions.

Skill Level

Patterns are primarily easy for the beginner to near intermediate knitter. Most of the stitches are simply variations on a rectangular knit and purl theme.

Although experienced knitters might find the book's patterns too simple or obvious, I believe it still deserves consideration.

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