It is while browsing through Ravelry, I came across a mention of HANDKNIT HEROS. The first publication of a Graphic Novel to include knitting. In the interest of trying to get Scoops for the Woolly Way, I added my name to the list of Sneak Participants, thinking they will never send one to Ireland. So, you can imagine my delight when I got an email to say I (we) had been chosen! It duly arrived in the post, and I managed to get a quiet hour so I could savor it.
HANDKNIT HEROS is the brainchild of Stephanie Bryant. In the little introduction at the start of the comic, she tells how she developed her stories and her love of knitting into a physical form, a graphic novel for knitters. “It was a labor of love”.Without giving too much away, the story is about teenage twins Alex and Ana Miller. As the story develops we see their powers reveal themselves. Ana’s best-friend Sue Ho, has more in common with her then she first realizes…And Jen, their mother, also has secrets she’s not ready to share.
This is a real comic, not just a token gesture to try cash in on a new knitting gimmick. The artwork is done by Marc Olivent, it is detailed and expressive with a slightly dark feel to it. The fact there is a knitting pattern in it is just a bonus. The POW Hooded Scarf, designed by Erssie Major, is worn by Ana towards the end of the story. There is huge interest from crafters to make replicas from their favorite TV show, movie, game, whether it is for themselves, loved ones, or family members. So, by making it a feature and giving the pattern with the comic, is a very clever touch. I hope it will look as good on me (when I get it finished) as it does on our heroine.
It is hard to tell from a single issue, whether you really like a comic or not, as it’s simply an introduction to the main players of the game. But judging by the standards Stephanie has set for herself: a well presented comic, promising storyline and fantastic artwork, HANDKNIT HEROS is definitely one to watch out for. And you don’t have to knit to enjoy it…
More info on HANDKNIT HEROS is available on their website: comicknits
Join Stephanie (ID: mortaine), friends and fans in Ravelry Handknit-Heros
POW Hooded Scarf pattern is available to buy on Ravelry
..review by stitchlily....
1 comment:
Not only do I agree with what you have said; I believe that this comic has a future ahead. This book has kept with most comics openings, getting the characters established. The knitting is a bonus for those of us knitting. My daughter a non-knitter, but a crocheter, said that her interest is piqued with the possibilities that these characters have to offer. It is refreshing to see this kind of thing in comics. I love it and can't wait to get 'involved' in the story.
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