Handweaving a gift is a labor of love. But, as Tom Knisely points out in his new book, Handwoven Baby Blankets, along with love there's pressure to make the perfect gift, especially when the gift is for a new baby. In addition to thirty-four charming baby blanket patterns for both 4-shaft and 8-shaft looms, this book is packed with Tom's expert, practical advice for creating a baby blanket that will be treasured as the perfect expression of your love for that new little person. One of the first challenges Tom tackles is the question of size. Not everyone has a 40-inch or wider loom, but he points out that a preemie blanket can be as small as 18 inches square, so would-be blanket weavers need not be unduly limited by their looms. Tom also applies his analytical mind to the eternal question of colors for babies. He points out that what newborns see best are strong patterns in black, gray, and white. So why sweat the whole pink versus blue question? That said, the book is packed with great advice on using color, including variegated and hand-dyed yarns.

Everything you need to know is here, from the best materials for baby blanket weaving to complete finishing instructions. (Hint: Mr. Knisely is not a fan of fringe for babies.) The blanket designs are bright and charming, with something to please every baby and family, from traditional blues and pinks to the multihued Springtime, from a baby tartan to the Fortune Cookie design in Chinese good-luck colors. There are weave structures to suit every taste and experience level: plain-weave plaids, basketweave, color-and-weave designs, classic huck lace, twill, and even a bit of overshot. The projects in the book are divided by loom type (twenty-one 4-shaft, thirteen 8-shaft), and each includes a large, easy-to-follow draft and basic project specifications: yarn suggestions, warp length, sett, and width in reed. But the most inspiring thing about this book (besides the photos of darling babies) is the love running through it: for the weaving community, for the craft, and for Tom's own family. It is laced with stories of raising his own daughters, and of the granddaughter to whom the book is dedicated.

If that doesn't get you warped and weaving for baby, nothing will.