Taking as its premise “anyone can learn to knit”, after a brief history of knitting, a description of the materials you need and an illustrated guide to the main stitches, there are patterns for “girls, boys, babies” and gifts and a list of useful sources of yarn, patterns, knitting groups and other support.

Best suited to novice knitters or those ready to progress from scarves and squares. There are some interesting facts (did you know Lord Kitchener was a knitter? No, me neither!) and foolproof, easy to follow patterns, although not all struck me as very useful – knitted laptop case, anyone?!

Verdict: However, feel free to admire my knitted beret. And start knitting cashmere socks for your loved one’s Christmas gift. ***