Carol Rasmussen Noble (1948–2011)

I found pros and cons for this book. I don't want to make any of the patterns, but the manifesto at the beginning was good, some of the techniques I picked up I will use (the noble neck, a cat's paw lace pattern), and some of the reasons why these patterns would look good on larger women were good hints for looking at other patterns.

The actual designs though...Her size medium is too large for me. I really hate being forever stuck in the 'too large for regular sizing, too small for plus show more sizing" gap. It almost feels elitist? I'm not fat enough to belong? Then, she repeatedly emphasizes using certain yarns to make people pay attention to the yarn or sweater rather than the shape beneath. I may be larger, but I have some good body features and I often want to show them off! How about a pattern for the large woman with an hourglass figure? Feature something with a slim waist! How about the large woman with lovely breasts? How about something other than large boxes with "generous armholes" and "face framing" collars?

Lastly, her idea of a "dressy" outfit is beyond me. show less

Lots of great patterns in here in a variety of styles and degrees of difficulty. Still too complex for me--but one day!!

Wear bold, beautiful colors! Find styles to flatter your figure! Feel comfortable in your clothes! These gorgeous wearables for medium to plus-size women are designed to make you look great--and guarantee a fit to make you feel great.

Fourteen patterns are proportioned to fit and flatter women's sizes Medium to 2X
Projects include jackets, cardigans, and pullovers, plus elegant evening wear
Sleeves and necklines are styled to ensure a comfortable fit