Book Review: Easy Sweaters to Knit by Melanie Berg

Comfortable Style Meets Accessible Knitting

Known for her contemporary aesthetic and intuitive construction, Melanie has created a book that welcomes newer garment knitters while still offering enough interest for more experienced makers. Easy Sweaters to Knit is a beautiful, confidence-boosting collection of modern knitwear patterns that prove that “easy” can still mean elegant, wearable, and stylish.

The Designs

The book features13 sweater and cardigan patterns that blend simplicity with sophistication. These are the kinds of jumpers and cardigans you’ll reach for again and again—versatile shapes, wearable fits, and subtle design details that make them special without being overwhelming.

You’ll find a range of constructions—from top-down seamless yokes to drop-shoulder sweaters and even a cardigan made from a square! There’s a lovely balance between structure and drape, and all of the garments are designed with comfort and movement in mind.

Accessibility

Melanie excels at making garment knitting feel achievable. Every pattern is clearly written with detailed sizing charts, schematic diagrams, and notes on shaping and construction. She includes guidance on yarn substitution and swatching, as well as the ease each pattern is designed to have —so you feel supported at every stage of the process.

Most sweaters are designed with minimal finishing and seamless construction wherever possible, which keeps things approachable for knitters who might be attempting their first wearable piece.

Style

The styling throughout the book is calm and contemporary, with a muted colour palette that lets the stitches shine. The sweaters are paired with relaxed trousers, simple skirts, and natural backdrops—making it easy to imagine how you might incorporate each piece into your own wardrobe.

There is a lovely section at the back showing the real knitters who made the garments. They describe why they picked the one they made and their experience of making it.

My Favourite...

My favourite piece? The “Cinnamon Daydream” sweater—a slouchy fit with lace patterning down the sleeves and the front.

It’s the kind of sweater that looks chic with jeans and will keep you warm and stylish all season long.

My Observations

This book is a real treat for anyone looking to build their handmade wardrobe with garments that are both wearable and enjoyable to knit. Melanie’s strength lies in her ability to design patterns that feel effortless but never dull.

Here’s what I particularly loved:

• Simple silhouettes with just enough detail to keep them interesting

• Clearly written patterns with excellent support for newer garment knitters

• Inclusive sizing and fit advice

• Emphasis on comfort and versatility

• Beautiful photography and layout that’s both inspiring and practical

Summary

Easy Sweaters to Knit is a fantastic addition to any knitter’s bookshelf—especially if you're looking to step into the world of garment knitting without feeling intimidated. Melanie Berg has created a collection that’s stylish, achievable, and endlessly wearable. Whether you’re casting on your first jumper or your fifteenth, you’ll find something in here that you’ll love making—and love wearing.

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