Camilla Valley Farm Weavers' Supply is pleased to offer hundreds of books on Fibre Arts related topics. Below (and at the other links above) are detailed descriptions for a subset of the books available. The full list of books can be found at:
Also note that occasionally books become unavailable or a new source for out of print books is located. While we will try to provide books out of our inventory and/or can order them from our suppliers, sometimes this may not be possible. We will advise if a situation like this exists when you place your order, or you can contact us and we will verify availability before you order.
The Knitting Answer Book - Solutions to Every Problem You'll ever Face - Answers to Every Question You'll ever Ask
by Margaret Radcliffe
4 1/2" x 6 3/8" Soft Hardcover (400 pages)
2005, Storey Publishing
$19.95 Canadian ($16.95 US)
If you wish your yarn store had a 24-hour hotline, help is here! From needle sizes and yarn weights to dropped stitches, tight ribbing, chart reading, and curling edges, veteran knitter Margaret Radcliffe is here to help you solve any knitting mystery you may encounter.
This book answers some of the most common questions knitters have, and anticipates some questions you didn't know you had. Covering the whole range of situations a beginner is likely to face, along with the problems that may arise for those working more advanced patterns.
The author leaves no question unanswered, no quandry unaddressed. Contains detailed, illustrated answers to literally hundreds of questions, from the common to the more unusual: "Are certain needles better for certain yarns?", "What if I dropped a stitch several rows back?", Why do my edges tend to curl up?", "Can you use a different weight yarn than the pattern calls for?", "What can I do to keep my yarns from tangling up?" and "Oops, I see my ribbing is way too tight. Now what?"
The book is printed in a trim take-along size, in a friendly-to-use Q&A format, and belongs in the bag of every knitter. The questions are divided into 13 chapters titled: "Casting On", "The Basics", "Binding Off", "Tools", "Yarn", "Reading Patterns", "Pattern Stitches", "Circular Knitting", "Color", "Shaping", "Fitting", "Finishing" and "Embellishments". In addition, a "Resources" section at the end provides a glossary of books and magazines, a list of common abbreviations, Chart Symbols, Size Guidelines and a detailed index.
Hundreds of detailed two colour illustrations make this the one reference you'll want to keep tucked inside your knitting bag. Twenty-four hours a day, 7 days a week, this book is at your service.
The author has also written The Essential Guide to Color Knitting Techniques
Knitting Around
by Elizabeth Zimmermann
7 1/2" x 10" Hardcover (187 pages)
1997, Schoolhouse Press
$34.95 Canadian ($28.95 US)
For those of you who don't know of Elizabeth Zimmerman and her no nonsense, yet simple and practical approach to knitting, you'll really enjoy this book. Part knitting book, and part autobiography, it provides you with directions for making a moccasin sock and other stockings, a Fair Isle yoke sweater, knitted dickeys and a very warm hat, the Bog Jacket, the Pie Are Square shawl, a Norwegian pullover, an Aran coat, and more. Threaded throughout are digressions - biographical anecdotes that brings to life Elizabeth and her family - and their hardships and successes in establishing a new life for themselves in this country. The book includes many black and white as well as 16 pages of colour pictures of knitting projects and the art of Elizabeth Zimmermann. This is the companion book to the "Wool Gathering" Video series.
Other books and videos by the author include: The Knitter's Almanac, Knitting Around Video, Knitting Glossary Video, Knitting Without Tears, Knitting Workshop, the Knitting Workshop Video and The Opinionated Knitter.
Knitting Around
by Elizabeth Zimmermann and Meg Swansen
3 DVD Video Set (6 hours total)
Schoolhouse Press
$63.95 Canadian ($52.95 US)
This set of three videos presents the down home aspects and stories of Elizabeth and Meg plus tons of knitting how-to information. The following projects are given in this Woolgathering series format: Moccasin Socks and Other Stockings, Fair Isle Yoke Sweater, Knitted Dickeys, and a Very Warm Hat, Knitted Moebius, Bog Jacket, Pie are Square Shawl, Norwegian Pullover, Mittful of Mittens and an Aran Coat. Learn from the masters of knitting while enjoying a charming life story.
Other books by Elizabeth Zimmermann include: The Knitter's Almanac, Knitting Around, Knitting Without Tears, Knitting Workshop, the Knitting Workshop Video and The Opinionated Knitter. Other books and videos by Meg Swansen include: Cardigan Details (video), A Gathering of Lace, Handknitting with Meg Swansen, Meg Swansen's Knitting and Sweaters from Camp. The videos the two collaborated on include Knitting Glossary.
Knitting Bazaar
by Jo Sharp
8" x 11 1/4" Softcover (107 pages)
1999, Taunton Press
$34.95 Canadian ($28.95 US)
With four books, a line of wool knitting yarns, numerous catalogs and knitting articles to her name, Jo Sharp is becoming one of the best known knitting designers. Her designs are stylish and colourful without being trendy. Despite the numerous publications to her credit, she always manages to come up with fresh ideas, each one more stunning than the last.
This book collects 39 projects based on 15 styles. The projects include sweaters, cardigans and vests, with a few home projects thrown in. There is a special emphasis on the beginning knitter, yet despite their simplicity, the designs are unique and stylish and will appeal to a wide range of knitters. Full step-by-step instructions are given for the projects with clear readable knitting charts where needed. Colourful photos show the projects to their best advantage using two or three colour variations and will inspire any knitter.
The projects in this book include: "Ariel cardigan", "Avalon sweater", "Boheme jacket", "Boulevard sweater", "Brunswick cardigan", "Darjeeling V-Neck", "Ebony sweater", "Emporium cardigan", "Georgia cardigan", "Hacienda coat", "Kaleidoscope vest and sweater", "Metropolitan V-Neck", "Paragon sweater", "Precious Jewel jacket" and "Serendipity pillows and throw".
The author's other books include: Knitted Sweater Style, Knitting Emporium and Rudgyard Story.
Knitting Beyond the Edge - Cuffs & Collars, Necklines, Corners & Edges, Closures
by Nicky Epstein
11 1/2" x 9" Softcover (155 pages)
2011, Sixth&Spring Books
$23.95 Canadian ($19.95 US)
The Essential Collection of Decorative Finishes
In this third installment of her smash edgings series, Nicky Epstein outdoes herself yet again, designing decorative finishes for any type of garment. Like its predecessors, Knitting Beyond the Edge explores trailblazing territory, this time focusing on cuffs and collars using stitch patterns, lace, ribs, and cords in a variety of styles; closures that include unusual buttonhole treatments, l-cord frogs, and button bands; corners and angles with unique stitch patterns and shapings; and new ways to use knitted leaves, bobbles, flowers, and purchased pieces such as trims and buttons as embellishments.
With her signature inventiveness, Nicky provides an abundance of ideas and takes stitchers one step further: Whereas the first two books used swatches to illustrate the edgings, these beautiful and elaborate finishings are incorporated right into the actual garment's design, so it's easy to see just how they'll look. They range in difficulty level; some are simple but elegant, others complex and truly extraordinary. There's a bell-sleeve jacket with a Celtic knot closure ("Bell Epoque Jacket"); a stylish cable-hooded wrap that's textured with unusual patterns and bobbles ("Hooded Shawl"); and a Fair Isle coat in eight different colors of yarn and with an unusual hem treatment and twisted cord embellishment("Faux Fair Isle Jacket"). The other projects in this book are a "Cardigan with Cabled Points" and a "Deep V-Neck Sleeveless Sweater". All are accompanied by detailed instructions and crisp color photography.
Both novice knitters and longtime fans of Nicky will relish this masterful collection! A really beautiful book!
Note that yarn kits for Faux Fair Isle Jacket as well as 100s of other Jamieson's Shetland Wool designs are available from Camilla Valley Farm.
Other books by this author include: Cover Up, Fabulous Felted Bags, The Knit Hat Book, Knits for Barbie Doll, Knitted Flowers, Knitting For Your Home, Knitting Never Felt Better, Knitting On the Edge, Knitting on Top of the World, Knitting Over the Edge, Nicky Epstein's Knitted Embellishments and Winter White Knits.
Knitting Brioche - The Essential Guide to the Brioche Stitch
by Nancy Marchant
8" x 10" Softcover (256 pages)
2010, North Light Books
$34.95 Canadian ($28.95 US)
Hungry for new knitting techniques? Try knitting brioche!
Knitting Brioche is the first and only knitting book devoted exclusively to brioche stitch, a knitting technique that creates a double-sided fabric.
This complete guide will take you from your first brioche stitches to your first (or hundredth) project, and even to designing with brioche stitch, if you desire. Whether you?re new to brioche knitting or experienced at ?brioching?, author Nancy Marchant provides the information and inspiration you need.
Inside Knitting Brioche, you?ll find detailed instructions and step-by-step photos that will guide you through all of the techniques you?ll need for brioche knitting. A stitch dictionary including 60 beautiful stitch patterns with many multicolor options is also provided. In addition there are 25 patterns for garments and accessories, all made with brioche stitches, some combined with other design elements including cables, lace, intarsia and more!
Projects in this book include: "The Book Exchange Cardigan", "Tulp Capelet", "Delft's Blauw" cap, "Darmstadt Pullover", "Hedera Jacket", "Fiets Hand Shoes", "Geveldak Scarf", "Herfst Avond Scarf", "Herfst Avond Wrist Cuffs", "Bloemenvelden Scarf", "New Amsterdam Cardigan", "Laars Manchetten" boot cuffs, "Leiden Look Vest", "Rembrandt Neckpiece", "Oor-Flap Muts", "Rechtboomssloot Snood", "Kromboomssloot Snood", "Windmolen Jacket", "Vlinder Shawl", "Waterloopein Watch Cap", "Wissel Scarf", "Zandvoort Pullover", "Zandloper" scarf, "Zomertijd" vest, "Harrlem Jacket".
Grab your needles and yarn and take a bite out of brioche knitting.
Knitting Circles Around Socks - Knit Two at a Time on Circular Needles
by Antje Gillingham
11 1/2" x 9" Hardcover (155 pages)
2007, Martingale and Company
$30.95 Canadian ($25.95 US)
Why knit one sock and then start all over again to make a match? Instead, knit two socks at the same time on two circular needles! With this creative approach, you can slip a sock on each foot as soon as you bind off.
Knitting Circles Around Socks is the first book of its kind ever published! Now you can knit socks faster and more efficiently than ever before when you create two socks at the same time on two circular needles! Eight easy to advanced designs showcase lace, cables, ruffles, and more. Knit two at a time and double your knitting fun!
With this book the reader will be able to get off to a great start with one basic sock pattern; then experiment with seven more designs. Make cuffs, feet, and toes match exactly from sock to sock; no more measuring as you go. Discover how easy it is to convert any sock pattern for double-pointed needles to this ingenious method.
Knitting Circular Method Sweater
by Kay Blanck
Video (117 minutes)
1989, Punkin Hollow Video Library
Knitting round things takes little concentration and no purling! Let Kay Blanck take you through this easy-to-learn series of steps. Soon you'll be making lovely and simple sweaters for everyone in your family.
Make a pullover with raglan sleeves, knitting in the round, working from the bottom, using circular and double-pointed needles. Basic knitting knowledge is helpful. Kay teaches you how to knit with any size yarn and needle that you may have on hand. Learn how to plan your own pattern size, determine the gauge, and calculate the yarn needed.
Knitting Counterpanes - Traditional Coverlet Patterns for Contemporary Knitters
by Mary Walker Phillips
9" x 9" Softcover (180 pages)
1989, The Taunton Press, Inc.
Elegant knitted coverings called counterpanes adorned many a bed in the 19th century. The patterns for most of these coverings, however, had been neglected for most of the century - until now. For the past 20 years, knitting expert Mary Walker Phillips has been scouring 19th century needlework magazines for counterpane patterns. To these, she has added patterns deciphered from counterpanes she's found in museum and private collections in the U.S. and abroad.
This book presents the best yield of her research - 46 counterpane patterns and 32 lace edgings and borders for knitters of all skill levels. These patterns will dress up the most modern of beds... and tabletops, pillows, or anything in need of a handsome covering.
Knitting Emporium
by Jo Sharp
8" x 11 1/2" Softcover (108 pages)
2000, Taunton Press
Jo Sharp has a dedicated following in the knitting community and this book makes it easy to see why. The rich and colourful collection of designs knit with wool yarn include creative projects for knitters at all skill levels. The author provides 14 designs for beautiful sweaters, cardigans, vests and hats; all wonderfully photographed in 3 or 4 colour combinations. Detailed instructions and charts cover multiple sizes, many for both men and women . The projects in this book include: "Christobel" sweater, "Solstice" sweater, "Antipodean" sweater, "Tashkent" hat and cardigan, "Anastasia" sweater, "Mirage" sweater, "Balthazar" hat and sweater, "Arabella" cardigan, "Millefiori" cardigan, "Stellar" sweater, "Kashmir" hat, jacket and sweater, "Eclipse" vest, "Oriole" vest and "Heather" sweater.
The author's other books include: Knitted Sweater Style, Knitting Bazaarand Rudgyard Story.
The Knitting Experience - Book 1: The Knit Stitch
by Sally Melville
9 1/2" x 10" Softcover (162 pages)
2002, XRX Books
$23.95 Canadian ($19.95 US)
In The Knitting Experience, "everything you need to know" combines with "everything you want to make". This primer is the closest thing to a knitting coach between two covers. And like any good coach, it shows you what you need to know, when you need to know it. First, in a chapter titled "The Basics of Knitting", clear, step-by-step photographs help you get started. Next, in "What You Need to Know Before You Begin a Project", you learn to make the choices that result in successful garments. Then the real fun begins!
In the 6 chapters that follow, a progression of skills are taught, all with the same over-the-shoulder guidance. And each skill is punctuated by fabulous and fun projects to knit! (With only 3 basic skills, make the shape it! scarf; with an additional set of skills, make the where's the opaque? sweater.) The patterns are presented in a uniquely accessible format; the photographs convince that these are projects to make and wear; and the coach is always there-offering advice, anticipating difficulties, providing rescue techniques. To underscore it all, between the chapters are "meditations" on why we love to knit.
Like knitters today, this book attends to the heart and mind as well as the hand and eye. Like knitting today, this book is personal, passionate, powerful-exactly what the new knitter is looking for and irresistible to the already-converted. The 25 patterns in this book include: "Maximum Scarf", "Minimum Scarf", "Have Fun! Scarf", "Jen's Poncho", "Three-Scarf Ruana", "Joel's Scarf", "Shape It! Scarf", "Knit-round Scarf", "Legwarmers: Maximum and Minimum", "Mostly Knit-Round Hat", "Knit-Flat Hat & Mitts", "Best-Friend Jacket", "Asymetrical Vest", "Einstein Coat", "Your Basic Bag", "Not-so-Warm Coat", "Baby Albert Coat & Bunting", "Sally's Favorite Summer Sweater", "Where's the Opaque? Sweater", "Caddy's Sweater", "Classic Male Cardigan", "Lot's of Choices Top" and "Knit Down, Made-to-Measure Jumpers".
This book - the first in a series of five - is dedicated to teaching knitting in the most accessible manner possible. But while it is written for those who have never held yarn and needles, it holds much for even very experienced knitters. It includes wonderfully easy designs we want to both knit and wear, attention to detail so knitters honor their craft, a gradual accumulation of skills so those understand what we are dong, a discussion of the choices that make successful garments, advice that anticipates difficulties and rescues mistakes and finally meditations on the knitting experience that also engage the heart and mind.
The author's other books include The Knitting Experience - Book 2: The Purl Stitch, The Knitting Experience - Book 3: Color, Mother-Daughter Knits and Sally Melville Styles.
The Knitting Experience - Book 2: The Purl Stitch
by Sally Melville
9 1/2" x 10" Softcover (184 pages)
2003, XRX Books
$23.95 Canadian ($19.95 US)
Picking up where The Knitting Experience: Book 1: The Knit Stitch left off, this primer on the purl stitch uses clear, step-by-step photographs to guide beginner knitters through unique knitting projects. A natural progression of skills is taught, and each skill is punctuated by a knitting project, enabling new knitters to create an entire wardrobe featuring jackets, sweaters, hats, socks, and mitts.
The book acts as a knitting coach, offering advice, anticipating difficulties, and providing rescue techniques. Patterns are presented in an accessible format with ample text, photographs, and line drawings. While this book is written for the new knitter, more advanced knitters will enjoy the knitting projects as well.
Projects in this book include "Tricia's Shawl", "Simple Cardigan", "Vision Coat", "Simple and Sleeveless", "Not Your Mother's Suit Coat", "Not Your Mother's Suit Dress", "Basic Pullover", "Basic Serape", "Two-Tone Top", "Basic Vest", "Cross-Over Top", "Kangaroo Duo", "Raglan Body-Hugger", "With-a-Twist Turtleneck", "Classic Ribbed Pullovers", "Classic College Cardigans", "Elaine's Scarf", "Simple Socks", "Not-Knit-Round Scarf", "Elegant Gauntlets", "Canadian-Winter Hat and Mitts", "Collared Wrap", "To-the-Cottage Pullovers", "Another Coco Jacket" and "Luscious Pullover".
The author's other books include The Knitting Experience - Book 1: The Knit Stitch, The Knitting Experience - Book 3: Color, Mother-Daughter Knits and Sally Melville Styles.
The Knitting Experience - Book 3: Color - the Power and the Glory
Sally Melville
9 1/2" x 10" Softcover (246 pages)
2005, XRX Books
$30.95 Canadian ($25.95 US)
The closest thing to a knitting coach, this primer on knitting describes simple approaches to choosing, using, and wearing color. Knitters move from being intimidated by the choices to being excited by the possibilities as the skill-building chapters put color into practice.
Clear, step-by-step photographs lead knitters through a progression of new methods punctuated by fabulous and fun projects to knit. The more than 40 designs range from simple to classic to unexpected and are presented multiple times showcasing different techniques, mixing and matching to yield more than 80 total projects.
Projects in the book are broken down into the 6 main chapters: Let the Yarn Do the Work: "Yarn-Party Poncho", "Summer Breeze", "Faith Jacket", "Blanket Jacket", "Jeremy's Jacket", "Choker Cuff", "Nancy's Skirt"; Stripes, Simple and Not: "Skinny Stripes", "Broad Stripes", "Wobbly Stripes", "Graduated Stripes" and "Collar-Closing Stripes"; Stripes that Aren't: "Cynthia's Scarf/Afghan", "Nod-to-Mod Pullover", "Big Bang Wrap", "Linen-Stitch Wrap", "Linen-Stitch Runner and Placemats", "Baby Rainbow Jacket", "Slip-Into-Color Pullover", "Faux Check Pullover", "Little Squares", "Wrong-Side Sweater" and "Ed's Tie"; The Two Color Tradition: "KISS Purse", "North-Inspired Cardigan", "In Praise of Doodling", "The Seventies" and "Not-Mrs-D's-Suit"; Panels, Pictures, and Plaids; "Boyfriend Sweater", "Princess Pullover", "Color Party Parka", "Annalee's Tea Cozy", "Shared Border Cardigan", "Panel-Party Skirt", "Panel-Party Tunic/Pullover/Dress", "Knitting Bag Jacket", "Fishies", "Fishy Pullover", Simple Plaid Scarf/Afghan", "Simple Plaid Top" and "Simple Plaid Vest".
With advice, tips, and techniques, this tutorial inspires learners to take their craft to the next level.
The author's other books include The Knitting Experience - Book 1: The Knit Stitch, The Knitting Experience - Book 2: The Purl Stitch, Mother-Daughter Knits and Sally Melville Styles.
Knitting Fair Isle Mittens & Gloves - 40 Great Looking Designs
by Carol Rasmussen Noble
7 1/2" x 9 1/2" Softcover (358 pages)
2002, Lark Books
Distinctive Fair Isle mittens and gloves are among the most popular and now you can knit 40 exceptional designs. Try patterns unique to the Shetland Islands that range from classic, muted colour schemes to colourful contemporary variations. Whether it's the brightly coloured "Norwegian Stars Mittens" or the delicate hues of "Heather lace Gloves", you'll want to make these great-looking projects for yourself and as gifts.
Knit the Fair Isle mittens and gloves that are highly prized for their distinctive patterns and wonderful array of colours. These 40 designs include the most beloved and characteristic elements of the style as well as some wonderful new variations.
Shetland knitters make their women's mittens very long to include the double motif they're so fond of. Try "Diamonds Variation", which has elements from both a star and a diamond combined in a single design, or "Lerwick X's & O's", the oldest Shetland pattern.
Women's fingerless gloves are growing in popularity among teenagers and make great gifts. Knitters love them because you don't have to worry too much about the fit and they take a lot less time to complete. The brightly colored "Tartan" has a dainty, conservative look, while "Snowflake" is quite subtle and muted in white and silver shades.
The children's mitts and gloves are eyecatching and cheerful. With a little bit of imagination, the dazzling "Butterflies for Bairns" pattern seems to want to fly away!
The classic X's & O's motif is adapted for young hands on "Small Diamonds". These mittens look great thanks to the stunning colour scheme, which includes mahogany, peach, black, and yellow.
Shetland women's gloves have evolved over time in both style and pattern, but can readily be distinguished from those originating in other North Sea countries. From the sophisticated, modern-looking "Forest Cross" to "Traditional Allovers", which have been knit in the same design for at least 50 years, these projects are exceptional in every way.
Just like the knitters still do in the Shetland Islands today, you can create these one-of-a-kind, time-honored designs on your own knitting needles.
The author has also written Gossamer Webs: The History and Techniques of Orenburg Lace Shawls.
Knitting Fashions of the 1940's - Styles, Patterns, and History
by Jane Waller
8 1/2" x 11" Hardcover (160 pages)
2007, Crowood Press
$47.95 Canadian ($39.95 US)
This lavish book celebrates the patterns and designs of 1940s knitwear. Drawings and photographs from the original pattern magazines accompany modern colour photographs of the garments knitted up for today's wear. In addition it provides a history of wartime Britain and America, often using the actual words of the knitters and designers used by the fashion magazines.
Over fifty patterns are featured, ranging from twinsets to hats with a variety of stitches. Illustrations show the garments as advertised in the 1940s and as re-knitted for today's wear. American, British and continental needle sizes are included, as is American terminology and measurements are given in both imperial and metric. This classic pattern book is a treasury of patterns, adapted for today's yarns and needles, that will appeal to all handknitters and to anyone interested in the period.
Knitting for Dummies
by Pam Allen
7 1/2" x 9 1/2" Softcover (358 pages)
2002, Hungry Minds Inc.
$25.95 Canadian ($21.95 US)
Discover the joys and comforts of knitting and create brilliant, timeless designs.
Wouldn't it be great to make hand knit items for family and friends - or even better, yourself? Using easy-to-follow illustrations, knitting pro Pam Allen demonstrates basic knitting stitches - and then shows you how to decipher patterns, work with multiple colours, get creative and much more!
This is a wonderful book for anyone who is interested in learning to knit. The author provides clear explanations of each technique along with crystal clear diagrams. Icons and other navigational aids help the reader find what they want quickly and top tens lists and cartoons sprinkled throught the book add a dash of humor and fun.
The book is broken down into a number of sections that the reader can progress through as their skills increase. The "Knitting Primer" section starts the reader off by explaing the basic stitches and by identifying what tools and materials are needed. This section also includes an explanation of the math as well as hints on correcting mistakes. When the reader is ready to move on, the "Manipulating Stitches" section goes deeper with help on shaping garments as well as knitting lace and cables. "Color me Knitting" introduces the reader with knitting in more than one colour while "Making Garments" takes the reader through the design of a sweater, explains how to knit in the round with circular and double-pointed needles and covers finishing techniques. The book wraps up with a list of the author's favorite knitting books, a collection of resources, more information on colour and some additional practice samplers.
This great guide features patterns and tips and a hands-on approach to learning how to knit. An 8-page color insert and 2-color illustrations throughout highlight the artistry and style of current knitting techniques and patterns. And this book focuses on not just the mechanics of knitting, but also on designing and creating practical and stylish pieces. The reader will learn how to maximize current technology to increase their speed and accuracy. This is a wonderful book for both the new knitter who wants clear instructions as well and the experienced knitter who is looking for a good reference on basic techniques.
Other books by this author include: Bag Style, Scarf Style and Wrap Style.
Knitting for Special Effect - 20 Original Designs for Day and Evening Wear
by Debby Robinson
9" x 11 1/4" Hardcover (96 pages)
1990, Little, Brown and Company
Drawing together the exotic, the ornamental and the ethnic, Debby Robinson has created twenty unique designs in Rowan and Jaeger yarns. The emphasis is on glamour and timeless elegance and all the patterns have been specially commissioned for this book. They feature a range of special effects which will delight knitters of all levels of proficiency - including beading, embroidery, applique, Swiss darning and fringing. Many of the patterns use luxury yarns such as mohair, silk and velvety chenil, creating a variety of interesting textures.
There is a wide range of styles from sophisticated jewel-studded evening wear to classic country casuals in cashmere. The decorated look is a dominant fashion influence and with this book you can knit yourself sweaters which would cost a small fortune to buy.
Designs in this book include: cropped sweater in a "droplet" stitch, with faceted pendant beads, a dramatic trompe l'oeil necklace sweater with gold highlights, an evening sweater evoking the midnight sky created in chenil and decorated with moon and star jewels, an exotic top with swirls of gold knitted into the yoke and a fringed border hung with coins, a sumptuous wrap-around mohair coat with a shawl collar trimmed with 'ermine' tails.
Debby Robinson has five knitwear books to her name including the well-respected Encyclopedia of Knitting Techniques which established her reputation as an excellent teacher of knitting. She has taken great care to set out these patterns clearly and Special Effect Panels with step-by-step drawings will help less experienced knitters with the more unusual techniques.
The complete list of designs in this book are: "Turkish Delight", "Victorian Vines", "Spanish Bolero", "Black Leather", "Cultured Pearl", "Austrian Tyrol", "Costume Jewelry", "Rambling Rose", "Oriental Gold", "Medieval Tapestry", "Georgian Rosebud", "Lace and Crystal", "Midnight Sky", "Country and Western", "Rain Drops", "Perfect Paisley", "Creme de la Creme", "Black Velvet", "Autumn Patchwork" and "Snow Queen".
Knitting for Special Effect offers an exciting wardrobe with many hours of creative knitting and the designs are beautifully photographed against the backdrop of scenic Southside House in London, England.
Knitting for Two - 20 Simple Designs for Expectant (and New) Mommies and Babies
by Erika Knight
9 1/2" x 10 1/4" Softcover (128 pages)
2004, Watson Guptill Publications
$23.95 Canadian ($19.95 US)
Pregnancy and the special time during the first year of a baby's life is a time for nesting and nurturing-and the perfect time for an expectant or new mother to take up knitting.
In Knitting for Two, renowned knitwear and textile designer Erika Knight presents a delightful collection of knitting patterns for soon-to-be and new moms and their babies. Knitters can choose from 20 easy-to-knit projects in a variety of color schemes. There are knitting projects using easy-care yarns in soft neutrals accented with baby blue, pink, and green; or fine yarns like cashmere in pastel shades of pink, blue, green, taupe, and cream. Other projects use vibrant colors like lime, fuchsia, and red. The patterns for mothers-to-be are stylish, feminine, and sexy and include a long-sleeved, chunky rib wrap; a cardigan with chiffon rose decoration; and a long twinset. The baby patterns are sized for premies and 0-12 months, and include a round-neck sweater with shoulder buttons and matching pull-on pants, a lacy bonnet, and a pixie-style hat with earflaps.
The 20 easy-to-knit projects in this book include: "T-Shirt with Side Ties for Mom", "Sweater with Pants Set", "Pompom Papoose", "Chunky Zip-Up Cardigan", "Mom's Soft Wrap Jacket", "Mom's Zip-up Hood", "Embroidered Raglan Sweater", "Pixie Hat", "Chunky Tweed Cardigan", "Rosebud Cardigan for Mom", "Lacy Ribbon-Tie Cardigan for Mom", "Heirloom Silk Shawl", "Dainty Booties", "Classic Yoked Cardigan", "Lacy Bonnet", "Mom's Wrapover Top", "Satin-Edged Blanket", "Right-Time Teddy Bear", "Silky Wrap Sweater" and "Shimmer Camisole for Mom". The book includes guidelines for adapting the projects for mommies to fit post-pregnancy figures.
The authors other books include: Classic Knits, Comforts of Home, Simple Knits for Cherished Babies and Simple Knits for Little Cherubs.
Knitting For Your Home - Afghans, Pillows and Accents
by Nicky Epstein
8 1/2" x 11" Softcover (152 pages)
2000, The Taunton Press
Nicky Epstein's Knitting For Your Home is Nicky's first collection of designs for home dˇcor. Nicky has engaged her wonderful, whimsical sense of design to create projects that will decorate and enhance you home. Her unique embellishments are perfect for throws and pillows. Knitters are sure to find just the projects to fit their mood, colour scheme and skill level. You'll even find enchanting barnyard pillows that kids will love.
The more than 30 fun-to-make projects will fit any decor, from traditional to modern and include: "Abbondanza Afghan and Fruit Basket Pillow", "Angel Afghan", "Felted Apple", "Bear", "Cables and Cables Afghan and Pillow", "By the Sea Afghan", "Cables and Berries Afghan", "Counterpane Afghan and Pillow", "Country Animal Pillows" ("Moo-Moo", "Meow-Kitty", "Baa-Baa" and "Oink-Oink" pillows), "Daisy Stitch Afghan and Bolster Pillow", "Diamond Lace Floral Afghan", "Diamond Drapes Afghan and Pillow", "Flowered Fur Pillow", "Gentleman's Sampler Afghan and Pillow", "Golf Afghan and Golf Ball Pillow", "Frog Closure Pillow", "Envelope Pillow", "Game Room Ornaments", "Goodnight Rose Lamp Shade", "Falling Leaves Lamp Shade", "Boudoir Lamp Shade", "Harlequin Magic Afghan", "Prism Pillows" ("Round Pillow", "Block Pillow" and "Diagonal Pillow"), "Mosaic Diamonds Afghan", "Mudcloth Afghan and Pillow", "Pear", "Proposal Afghan", "Provence Afghan", "Snowflake Afghan and Aran Pillow", "SOS Shingles Pillow", "Regal Tapestry Afghan and Pillow", "Sun Visions Afghan and Pillow", "Tea Time Lace Afghan and Pillow", "Patchwork Tree Afghan and Pillow", "Textural Leaf Afghan and Pillow", "Zodiac Fair Isle Afghan and Pillow", "Royal Maze Afghan and Pillow", "Brighton Lace Doily or Place Mat", "Heart Doily", "Star Doily", "Leaf Photo Frame" and "Cable Leaf Place Mat and Pillow".
Complete instructions are included for every project and many have alternate colourways to suit your particular scheme. The book is extensively illustrated with colour photographs and colour knitting charts making the patterns easy to follow. The author also includes a table of knitting abbreviations, a stitch glossary, some finishing techniques and a list of resources to help the reader get started on their first project. This is a very unique collection of knitting projects!
The author's other books include: Cover Up, Fabulous Felted Bags, The Knit Hat Book, Knits for Barbie Doll, Knitted Flowers, Knitting Beyond the Edge, Knitting Never Felt Better, Knitting on the Edge, Knitting on Top of the World, Knitting Over the Edge, Nicky Epstein's Knitted Embellishments and Winter White Knits.
Knitting from Start to Finish-ing
by Bev Dillon
Video (150 minutes)
1989, Delta Productions
$59.95 Canadian ($49.95 US)
Everything You Need For Learning And Improving Your Skills
This is a complete knitting course that includes the following chapters: "Knitting Basics (both American and Continental methods shown)", "Needles, Yarns and Measurements", "Decreases, Increases and Short Rows", "Textures, Cables and Lace", "Seams and Joinings", "Finished Edges and Trims", "Buttonholes, Pompoms and Fringe" and "Colour Knitting". All topics are covered in a thorough manner by the instructor.
The video also includes a 13 page booklet that provides information on materials and sizing as well as instructions for a Garter Stitch Pincushion, Easy Garter Stitch Scarf, Quick Knit Hat, Quick Knit Mittens, Knitted French Tam, Garter Stitch Scarf with Slip Stitch Edge, Baby Booties and a Child's Knitted Ball.
Knitting from the Top
by Barbara G. Walker
8 1/2" x 11" Softcover (121 pages)
1972, Schoolhouse Press
$23.95 Canadian ($19.95 US)
Twenty years of waiting are over; this classic is back in print! Knitting to clothe the body, not strain the brain! You’ll learn what to do and why you’re doing it, starting with your pattern stitches and swatch. Twelve basic designs with numerous variations teach you to shape, measure, and finish. As you are knitting from the top, you can lengthen or shorten, but best of all, you’re learning construction for fit.
The author's other books include the four "Treasury" volumes: A Treasury of Knitting Patterns, A Second Treasury of Knitting Patterns, Charted Knitting Designs: A Third Treasury of Knitting Patterns and A Fourth Treasury of Knitting Patterns as well as Mosaic Knitting and Learn-to-Knit Afghan Book.
Knitting Ganseys
by Beth Brown-Reinsel
8 1/2" x 9" Softcover (151 pages)
1993, Interweave Press, Inc.
$25.95 Canadian ($21.95 US)
Gansey sweaters were standard wear for nineteenth-century British fisherman. With their intricate knit-purl patterns, dropped shoulders, and easy fit, these handsome, comfortable garments are still a pleasure to wear - and knit - today.
In Knitting Ganseys, Beth Brown-Reinsel teaches you how to design and construct these durable favorites. You'll master special cast-ons, cables and increases, shoulder straps and gussets, and more. In just a few hours, you'll complete a miniature sample gansey, learning all about gansey construction as you go. Then you're ready to knit one of the author's six full-size garments - or to create your own original design. There's plenty of information on sizing, graphing, and technique - as well as blank cartoons and worksheets to guide you through the process.
Knitting Ganseys, designed for knitters of every skill level, provides all you need to know to create modern versions of these old-world classics.
Knitting Glossary DVD
by Elizabeth Zimmermann and Meg Swansen
2 DVD Set (240 minutes total)
2006, Schoolhouse Press
$49.95 Canadian ($41.95 US)
This DVD includes the 100 knitting techniques demonstrated by Elizabeth and Meg from the original 2 Video set plus another 30 "new" techniques added by Meg just for the DVD. Each stitch is described and demonstrated and easy to find using the DVD Index.
On this updated instructional DVD video you will find 13 ways to Cast On, 7 ways to Cast Off, 15 I-Cord variations, Two-colour knitting techniques, Entrelac, Bavarian Twisted Stitch, Buttonholes, Two-End Knitting, Afterthought Pockets, Weaving (grafting, Kitchener stitch), Armenian Knitting, Steeks (crocheted or machine stitched), Double-Knitting, Increasing, Decreasing, Jogless knitting, Trapping, Elizabeth's Percentage System (EPS) and much, much more.
Many knitted garments show how, when and where you might want to use various stitches and how they look as part of a completed piece. Learn from the masters.
Other books by Elizabeth Zimmermann include: The Knitter's Almanac, Knitting Around, Knitting Without Tears, Knitting Workshop, the Knitting Workshop Video and The Opinionated Knitter. Other books and videos by Meg Swansen include: Cardigan Details (video), A Gathering of Lace, Handknitting with Meg Swansen, Meg Swansen's Knitting and Sweaters from Camp. The videos the two collaborated on include: Knitting Around.
The Knitting Goddess - Finding the Heart and Soul of Knitting Through Instruction, Projects and Stories
by Deborah Bergman
8" x 8" Softcover (263 pages)
2000, Hyperion
$16.95 Canadian ($13.95 US)
Beautiful knitting goes with beautiful stories. First and foremost, this book is filled with beautiful projects to create -- original designs inspired by goddesses whose lives reflect the creative process of knitting. But in addition to new and glorious projects, you'll read stories that will make knitting come alive in a new way -- even if you're just beginning.
For the new knitter, find inspiration from the Native American Grandmother Spider, who wove a ladder from on world to the next. She'll teach you the absolute basics of casting on, knitting and binding off (it's easier than you think). With that knowledge, you're ready to call on Isis for help in knitting a beautiful and sexy stole to wrap around your shoulders. This Egyptian goddess of magic and healing, who reconstructed her dead husband Osiris for five days and nights of love before he departed for the stars, will guide you in creating a project simple enough for the beginner, gorgeous and individual enough for the sophisticate. Rachel, the shepherdess from the Bible, is a knitting goddess in that she teaches us patience. She waited fourteen years for her beloved Jacob to become free, and nearly as long as that to bear children. In her chapters, you'll learn to discern the differences between various types of wool, and you'll find a project that is comforting, supportive and thoroughly unique. Other goddesses and projects include: Ariadne and a ribbed scarf; The Moirae and a multicoloured pullover; Penelope and a turtleneck with a halo; Arachne and a lively shrug sweater; Faust's Gretchen and easy instructions for knitting dross into gold(?); Brigit, a charming Celtic goddess, and a found baby afghan; and. lastly Pallas Athene and an exotic head-covering scarf called a smoke ring from the Cave of the Nymphs.
Once you encounter the secrets of the Knitting Goddesses, you become one. With the ancients at your shoulder, you will create projects that will endow you with power, beauty and strength. Line art drawings are used throughout the book to show the knitting stitches, patterns and to illustrate the stories.
Knitting Goes Large - 20 Designs to Flatter Your Figure
by Sharon Brant
8 1/2" x 10 1/2" Softcover (136 pages)
2009, St. Martin's Griffin
$30.95 Canadian ($25.95 US)
Trying to find great knit designs in larger sizes is not always easy. Knitting Goes Large aims to fill the gap by offering a selection of 20 great knits for all occasions and all seasons for larger women with varying figure types. This beautiful collection of plus-size styles will appeal to women who want more generously proportioned garments, and this time, by popular request, the knits go a size or two larger than many other books available.
The key designs are by Martin Storey, Wendy Baker, Jennie Atkinson, and Kim Hargreaves, edited by Sharon Brant, coauthor of Rowan's Classic Knits for Real Women. Sharon, a plus-size woman herself, offers an introduction which explains how to make the right pattern choice for your figure type and size, how to amend patterns, for example, should you lengthen or shorten a garment to make the most of your assets, helpful dos and don'ts and tons of advice on garment sizes and shapes, details, textures, and colors that will complement a curvaceous figure. The patterns come in six sizes, starting from size 16, giving a chance for even the most generously-sized women to find something that will suit their figure type. Included are some great contemporary designs, with an emphasis on softly wrapping shapes, which is ideal for fuller figures.
The list of projects in this book includes: "Cabled Tunic", "Ribbed Shawl", "Seed Stitch Jacket", "Large Collar Jacket", "Collared Tunic", "Bow Sweater", "Split Neck Tunic", "Cabled Vest", "Fair Isle Sweater", "Striped Scarf", "Wrap Jacket", "Lace Tunic", "Lacy Cardigan", "Swing Jackets", "Textured Top", "Scarf and Stole", "Camisole", "Peplum Jacket", "Twisted Rib Cardigan" and "Cabled Bag".
Whether you are looking for warm winter jackets, comfortable sweaters, cool, summer cardigans or tunics, neat tops to wear under a suit or pretty evening cover-ups, you will find something to suit your figure and your taste, all in popular, classic Rowan yarns. The designs in this book are perfect for real everyday women looking to sport a comfortable, contemporary style that fits their shape.
Knitting Green - Conversations and Planet Friendly Projects
by Ann Budd
8 1/2" x 9" Softcover (160 pages)
2010, Interweave Press
$30.95 Canadian ($25.95 US)
Most of us, knitters included, want to do our part for the planet, but it can be hard to know what that means. What makes a yarn organic? Are natural dyes safer than chemical dyes?
From selecting organic yarns to reusing yarns to knitting warm projects (and turning the heat down), there are a variety of ways to knit green. Leading knitting industry figures, including designers French Girl Kristeen Griffin-Grimes and Kristin Nicholas, yarn company creative director Pam Allen, and writer/editors Amy R. Singer (Knitty) and Clara Parkes (Knitter's Review), offer their perspectives on integrating green principles with their work and lives.
In addition to the articles and personal essays, Knitting Green includes 20 contemporary projects from top designers for garments, accessories, gifts, and home furnishings, all designed to use earth-friendly yarns or to serve an earth-friendly purpose. In addition to Ann Budd, designers include Pam Allen, Mags Kandis, Deborah Newton, Vicki Square, and more.
The collection has a wearable but fashionable feel (similar to Interweave's Style series) and projects are current without being trendy. These appealing, innovative designs give knitters a sense that they are helping the planet while making beautiful and useful knits.
Patterns in this book include: "Eco Vest", "Solstice Skirt", "Soap Nut Vessels", "Allegoro Lace Tunic", "Back-to-Nature Hat", "Soy-Silk Kimono", "All-(North)American Hoodie", "Better Baby Rattle", "Tree-Hugger Pullover", "Honor the Buffalo Socks and Mitts", "Cunene River Pullover", "Commuter Knapsack", "Videvik Shawl", "Sustainable Bamboo Scarf", "Cotton Comfort Bear", "Caterina Wrap", "On-the-Go Bike Basket-Purse", "Organic Sprout Top", "Save-the-Streams Slippers", "Blue Cloud Afghan", "Paris Recycled" and "Green Grocery Bag".
Each designer interprets the challenge of "knitting green" in her own way: reducing disposable plastic bags, facilitating an alternative to chemical detergent, using fiber that would otherwise go to waste, and keeping wearers warm or cool without using energy.
The author has also written The Knitter's Handy Book of Patterns, The Knitter's Handy Book of Sweater Patterns, The Knitter's Handy Guide to Yarn Requirements, Simple Style and Wrap Style.
Knitting Heaven and Earth: Healing the Heart with Craft
by Susan Gordon Lydon
5 3/4" x 7 3/4" Softcover (256 pages)
2005, Knitting Fever Inc.
$16.95 Canadian ($13.95 US)
Susan Gordon Lydon's groundbreaking book The Knitting Sutra offered a new way for knitters to look at their craft - as a healing and meditative endeavor instead of a granny hobby or an indulgent pastime.
The first book without knitting patterns to capture the knitting audience, it has been widely imitated, but no other book has endured so well. And the idea of knitting as meditation has caught on - it is often cited as the new yoga.
With Knitting Heaven and Earth Lydon again breaks new ground, this time following the emotional ties that become bound up in her handicrafts. The new book was inspired by Lydon's advancement as a knitter. As her stitches grew finer, she found that her life came into focus and her emotional wounds began to heal. When faced with a series of wrenching events - a heartbreaking romance, the death of her father, a devastating diagnosis of breast cancer - Lydon found new reserves of strength in knitting. Through it all, the skeins of sumptuous yarn and colorful thread helped her make sense of the trials of the heart.
Bringing elements of spiritual and historical lore into play, Lydon explores the connections that handicrafts forge, both in knitting circles and across generations, through her own experience and her encounters in the knitting community.
The author has also written The Knitting Sutra: Craft As a Spiritual Practice
Knitting in America
by Melanie D. Falick
9 1/4" x 12 1/4" Hardcover (224 pages)
1997, Artisan
Now out of print, this classic has been republished in a softcover version and renamed as America Knits.
A visual treat; this book is a journey through the US profiling 38 knitters and designers. At each stop the artist discusses their knitting background, their feelings toward the fibre arts and their philosophies and design process, A gorgeous collection of colour photographs brings the discussions to life and are used to set the stage for a collection of over 30 unique knitted garments. While the artists profiles could stand alone as a book exploring artistic creativity, the collection of designs make the book a beautiful pattern book.
Full instructions for each pattern, complete with stitch guides, are included in the back of the book. The patterns are graded by knitting skill and for experienced knitters include: "Girls Jacket with Mitten Motif", "At Sea Gansey", "Mother-Daughter Harvest Fruit Pullover", "Kousa Dogwood Shawl", "Unisex Cabled Raglan Pullover", "Moss Stitch and Cable Cardigan & Pullover", "Southwestern Geometric Jacket", "Faux Cable Sage Pullover", "Kestrals Alight Cropped Kimono", "Entralac Christmas Sock", "Lee's Crow-Bear Cardigan", "Tree of Life Mosaic Jacket", "Schoolhouse Shetland Pullover" and "A Trio of Latvian Mittens". For Intermediate knitters there is: "Spice Market Wrap & Hat", "Counterpane Pullover", "Center Cable & Rib Pullover", "Leaf Kimono & Pullover", "Pre-Columbian Shawl", "Colorado Cashmere Wimples", "Patchwork-Sunflower Jacket", "Navajo Pullover", "Snoqualmie Stripes Jacket", La Plata Socks", "Danya's Southwest Motif Jumper-Vest", "Sand Castle & Starfish Beach Tunic" and "Lui Had a Dream Cardigan & Short Vest"as well as a single Easy pattern called: "Morehouse Family Cardigan & Pullover",
This is a gorgeous book that will inspire the reader and provide a collection of beautiful design ideas as they hear first hand from artists such as: Beth Brown-Reinsel, Nicky Epstein, Deborah Newton, Barbara Walker and Meg Swansen.
The author has also written America Knits, Kids Knitting and Weekend Knitting: 50 Unique Projects and Ideas.
Knitting in Plain English
by Maggie Righetti
7" x 9" Softcover (282 pages)
2007, St. Martin's Griffin
$21.95 Canadian ($17.95 US)
Completely Updated and Revised Edition with more than 40 new pages!
Whether you've been handling knitting needles for years, or just thinking about picking them up, Knitting in Plain English should be your bible. Drawing on twenty years of experience as "the knitting lady" in various yarn stores, Maggie Gighetti provides sound instructions for beginners and sensible solutions for experienced knitters.
Topics and techniques include picking a pattern that's right for you, determining gauge, how to knit and purl plus instructions for fifteen additional pattern stitches, how to make invisible increases and decreases, five different methods of buttonholing, how to short-row for a perfect fit, working with more than one colour of yarn, how to weave invisible seams, picking up dropped stitches, how to hand-wash and block your finished garment plus much, much more.
From equipping your knitting bag to knitting a sweater, Maggie Righetti explains it all, simply and clearly. Each technique is illustrated with easy-to-follow, step-by-step drawings. Complete with a detailed glossary of knitting terms and six learning patterns on which to practice, Knitting in Plain English is an invaluable sourcebook no knitter will outgrow.
Knitting in the Old Way - Designs and Techniques from Ethnic Sweaters
by Priscilla Gibson-Roberts
7" x 9" Hardcover (312 pages)
2003, Nomad Press
$34.95 Canadian ($28.95 US)
Originally published in 1985 in a smaller edition, Knitting in the Old Way presents a way of knitting rather than a finite set of patterns. It empowers today's knitters to produce both everyday and heirloom-quality sweaters without relying on line-by-line patterns. It teaches us to read the fabric on our needles instead of the fine print.
The book is bound with sewn signatures (for durability and to open flat) and will have a sturdy, paper-over-boards cover. Knitting in the Old Way means knitting by thinking, not by following. Knitting in the Old Way guides you to discover a way of knitting. It unfolds a process that connects you to centuries of textile wisdom and helps you invent and create designs of your own. Knitting in the old way involves working each sweater from a plan based on proportions, instead of from a line-by-line pattern.
The book includes 15 master plans with infinite style variations including a "Basic Blouse", Basic Gansey", "Steeked Jersey", "Shaped-Steek Jersey", "Sweater with Full Yoke", "Shaped Vest" and "Shaped Sweater". 85 sweater examples from around the world grouped into sections on "Color Stranding", "Intarsia", "Texture", "Geometric Patterning" and "Crochet-Enhanced Knits" that include 62 concepts plus 23 alternatives and more than 230 charts for colour and texture inspiration.
Other books by this author include Ethnic Socks & Stockings, High Whorling - A Spinner's Guide to an Old World Skill and Simple Socks, Plain and Fancy.
Knitting Journal
by Char Loving
9" x 10" Spiralbound Hardcover (38 pages)
1986, SOHO Publishing Company
This wonderful journal is the perfect way for a knitter to record, archive, and display their knitted creations! After digging through pattern book after pattern book and trying to find the notes needed to duplicate garment designs knit in the past, the author came up with this journal to allow all the information required to be consolidated in a single place to save time.
Each page has places to record all the pertinant information about a knitting project. This includes the design name, the person it was knit for, the start and completion date, the pattern source, the garment size, stiches and rows per inch, needles used, yarn information and other notes. There is even a place to put a sample of the yarn and the label as well as a photo of the finished garment! Additional sections in the back have room for more pictures, a place to inventory the readers needle collection and more room for notes.
This journal is a great way to organize and capture design information for future use. Knitting designers will find this a great way to present their work in a professional manner. This journal is a must for anyone who wants to get organized!
Knitting Lace Triangles
by Evelyn A. Clark
9" x 10" Spiralbound Softcover (70 pages)
2007, Fiber Trends, Inc.
Why Triangles?
Visionary R. Buckminster Fuller called triangles the basic building blocks of the universe. He might not have been talking about lace triangles, but they are a basic in the knitting world. Lace triangles are versatile accessories. They can be knit in a variety of fibers and colors, as well as tweed, heather and glitzy yarns.
In this book, author Evelyn Clark shares her knowledge of planning and knitting lace triangle shawls. Starting with four simple Lace Repeat patterns, Evelyn walks the reader through how to use them to create a unique shawl or reproduce one of the eight sample shawls shown.
Sections in this book explain basic lace patterns (Flower, Leaf, Medellion and Ripple Lace), provide design options and explain the process of planning a triangle. The author also covers materials and suppliers, explains chart symbols and abbreviations and provides a list of tips before explaining how to knit the four basic patterns. Sections on Starting, Transitions, Edging, Casting Off and Finishing explain the complete process and are follewed by the set of patterns.
This is a great book for any knitter who is interested in designing and knitting their own lace triangle!
Knitting Lingerie Style - More than 30 Basic and Lingerie-Inspired Designs
by Joan McGowan-Michael
9 1/2" x 10 1/2" Hardcover (160 pages)
2007, Stewart, Tabori & Chang
$35.95 Canadian ($29.95 US)
Underwear has come out!
Once kept demurely concealed, lingerie now pervades every fashion category, inspiring designs for day looks, loungewear, evening clothes, and accessories. Slips have become dresses unto themselves. Bra straps are meant to peek out from under tank tops. Camisoles are worn on their own or as layers over or under other clothes. Now, with Knitting Lingerie Style, designer Joan McGowan-Michael interprets this undeniable fashion trend for the knitter and, along the way, shares fascinating stories about lingerie history. Did you know that it was airplane magnate Howard Hughes who masterminded the underwire bra?
McGowan-Michael's 30-plus designs, stunningly photographed by Thayer Allyson Gowdy, range from the truly functional-knitted bras, slips, corsets, camisoles, and stockings-to the purely fun. The brassiere inspires a curvature-enhancing twinset. The baby doll negligee is the basis for a lacy little gown and a matching thong set that's both luxurious and (slightly) notorious. And a ribbed, laced-front sweater is an updated - and much more comfortable! - take on the classic corset.
Projects in this book include: "Basic Bra", "Retro Ribby Twinset", "Citrus Sun Top", "Gracefully Gathered Halter Top and Boy Short", "Chocolate Creme Square-Neck Top", "Basic Slip", "Party Dress with Knit Bodice", "Silk Slip", "Fit-N-Flare Trumpet Skirt", "One-Piece Wonder", "Basic Corset", "Corset- Bodice Nightgown", "Embossed Leaf and Cable Merry Widow Shell", "Feather-Trimmed Cabled Bustier and Fingerless Gloves", "Waist-Cincher Top", "Laced-Front Sweater", "Basic Camisole", "Shaped Lace Tee", "Ruched Camisole", "Tank with 3-D Crochet Embellishments", "Surplice Bodice Camisole", "Silk and Pearls Cami", "Basic Stockings", "Lacy Summer Socks", "Embroidered Stockings", "Fishnet Knee-Highs", "Tiny Tailored Gartini", "Basic Baby Doll and Panty", "Bed Jacket", "Leggings with Mesh Sides", "Racerback Tank with Mesh Sides" and "Arm Warmers".
The only book of its kind on the market, Knitting Lingerie Style includes projects that are bold and sexy, daring us all to bare a little skin, as well as more understated and demure, with sizes ranging from petite to plus.
Knitting Marvelous Mittens - Ethnic Designs from Russia
by Charlene Schurch
8 1/2" x 10" Softcover (112 pages)
1998, Lark Books
Why Mittens? They're simply knitting in its highest form - you create the fabric and shape it at the same time. They're small, so materials aren't costly. They're portable, so you can work on them anywhere. Most importantly, they're always fun to wear, whether you are making a snowman, shoveling snow or walking the dog.
Now you can create a wardrobe of colourful mittens while learning about the knitting traditions of Russia's Komi people. Developed over centuries of being passed down orally from generation to generation, Komi patterns are based on easy-to-remember stitch sequences. At first glance they look complex. Look again and you'll see the clever and sophisticated use of simple symmetry to build bold geometric patterns.
The book contains 36 mitten instructions with complete charts, as well as two cap, and two sock patterns. You'll also find suggestions about using the patterns for creating sweaters. Full-colour photos for each project and illustrations of basic techniques will guide you through all you need to know to begin knitting today.
Knitting Multi-Color Techniques for Handknitters
instructed by Susie Hodges
Video (117 minutes)
1993, Victorian Video
$52.95 Canadian ($43.95 US)
In this course you will learn how to knit with several colors of yarn all at once, similar to those processes found in patterns by modern designers and the work of traditional ethnic knitters.
Knitters who can knit and purl with confidence will enjoy the information on stripes and intarsia. Then you'll be ready for the next step, Jacquard methods. These are appropriate for adventurous intermediates and advanced knitters who need information on how to work faster and produce smoother looking multi-color fabrics.
Time-saving techniques and tricks include knotless add-ons, avoiding holes by means of half-twists, two and one-handed stranding and ways to weave long floats and short ends into the backs of stitches as they are worked. Related methods like duplicate stitch, working with more than 2 colors at a time, as well as tips on incorporating beads are also included.
It is reccomended that those taking this course know basic knitting skills like knit, purl, increase and decrease as well as have an understanding of knitting terminology and pattern reading. The student will need an assortment of various colors of knitting yarn and a short (16") circular needle in a size appropriate for the yarn. Double pointed and straight needles are also acceptable. They will also need scissors and a blunt, large-eyed tapestry needle.
You'll be very pleased with the results you will be able to achieve in your next multi-color knitting project by simply following Susie's treasure chest of tips and techniques.
Knitting Never Felt Better - The Definitive Guide to Fabulous Felting
by Nicky Epstein
11" x 9 1/2" Hardcover (175 pages)
2007, Sixth&Spring Books
$35.95 Canadian ($29.95 US)
In Knitting Never Felt Better, the indomitable Nicky Epstein offers the definitive treatment of this essential technique in every fiber lover's repertoire.
Felting is the process of washing wool to create a denser texture; the knitted fabric shrinks, yielding beautifully artistic results. Using her trademark creativity and verve, Nicky incorporates many different yarns, stitch patterns and techniques to create one-of-a-kind garments and decorative objects.
As well as hundreds of felting ideas, the book has more than a dozen fabulous projects include scarves, capes, bags, hats, toys, home decorations and more. The list of projects includes: "Chic Mock Tweed Hat", "Vase/Needle Holder", "Ball Cape", "Angel Puff Scarf", "Holiday Trees", "Tie but no Dye", "Berry Nice Scarf", "2-in-1 Floral Scarf", "Pink Puff Bag", "Brick Stitch Bag", "Fair Isle Hat", "Op Art Bag", "Floral Coat", "Cherries Jubilee Slippers" "Celtic Scroll Pillow", "Christmas Stockings", "Baby Slippers", "Green Fair Isle Bag", "Fish", "Toy Horse and Bunny", "5-in-1 Sweater Projects", "Vegetables", "Bowl of Fruit", and "Sherwood Forest Bowl".
Other books by this author include: Cover Up, Fabulous Felted Bags, The Knit Hat Book, Knits for Barbie Doll, Knitted Flowers, Knitting Beyond the Edge, Knitting For Your Home, Knitting on the Edge, Knitting on Top of the World, Knitting Over the Edge, Nicky Epstein's Knitted Embellishments and Winter White Knits.
Knitting on the Edge - The Essential Collection of 350 Decorative Borders
by Nicky Epstein
11 1/2" x 9" Hardcover (168 pages)
2004, Sixth&Spring Books
$35.95 Canadian ($29.95 US)
This book is the essential collection of edgings and decorative borders, including ribs, ruffles, lace, fringes, flora, points, and picots.
There are certain decisions a knitter must make before casting on the first stitch - one of the most important is the type of finishing. Why? Because the right edging will transform a plain sweater into a scene-stealing sensation.
The first of its kind, Knitting on the Edge is a comprehensive and indispensable reference guide to 350 types of edging and decorative borders. Featuring styles that will work for any yarn and any size needle, allows knitters to customize their designs into one-of-a-kind creations.
From fringes, ribs and ruffles to lace, flora, points and picots, each chapter is packed with a variety of edging styles. Also included in each chapter is an exclusive design that showcases an innovative use for edgings. Whether you're creating a whimsical ruffled purse, a luxurious cashmere scarf or a sumptuous sweater accented with a lace trim, the edgings will surely inspire.
This book features instructions for each edging and various techniques showing how to create and incorporate them into your knitted piece most effectively. Take your knitted pieces to mnew creative heights with Knitting on the Edge - an essential addition to every knitter's library.
The 7 patterns included in this book are the "Tutti Twist Cardigan", "Ruffles Layered Ruffle Bag", "Vintage Lace Pullover", "Corkscrew Fringe Scarf", "Berry Cluster Pullover", "Sugar Drops" sleeveless pullover and the "Saxon Braid Scarf" which is pictured on the cover.
Other books by this author include: Cover Up, Fabulous Felted Bags, The Knit Hat Book, Knits for Barbie Doll, Knitted Flowers, Knitting Beyond the Edge, Knitting For Your Home, Knitting Never Felt Better, Knitting on Top of the World, Knitting Over the Edge, Nicky Epstein's Knitted Embellishments and Winter White Knits.
Knitting on the Road - Sock Patterns for the Traveling Knitter
by Nancy Bush
6 1/2" x 11 1/4" Spiralbound Softcover (96 pages)
2001, Interweave Press
$23.95 Canadian ($19.95 US)
This book is designed to travel! Its long, skinny format and spiral binding make it the perfect size to throw in the knitting bag as you head out the door. These 18 sock patterns are fun, easy, and portable-making this book great for obsessive knitters on the move. Perfect for beginners, it features helpful tips for each pattern and covers each step of knitting these stylish socks with charts and illustrations.
Projects in this Book include: "Canada", "Canal Du Midi", "Conwy", "Dalarna", "Denmark", "Friday Harbour", "Hiiumaa Mismatched Mates", "Huron Mountain", "New England", "The Road to Oslo", "Santa Fe", "Spey Valley", "Christmas in Tallinn", "Traveler's Stockings", "Uinta Cabin", "Unst" and "Whitby".
Other books by this author include: Folk Knitting in Estonia, Folk Solks and Knitted Lace of Estonia.
Knitting on Top of the World - The Global Guide to Traditions, Techniques and Design
by Nicky Epstein
10" x 11 1/2" Hardcover (248 pages)
2010, Sixth&Spring Books
$42.95 Canadian ($35.95 US)
Nicky takes the reader on a world tour of knitting traditions and techniqes - colorwork, cables, lace and more - explaining the origin and use of each technique in folk knitting traditions.
She then goes on to reinvigorate and recombine all these techniques in her inimitable way to create over 40 all-new, innovative designs.
The book is grouped by geographical chapters with patterns that include: Far North - "Northern Lights Cardigan", "Copenhagen Royal Shawl", "Princess Bride Mittens", "St Petersburg Camisole", "Baltic Cuffs and Cap", "Bohus Swing Coat", "Snowflake Sweater Cape" and "Liten Olaf Sweater"; Windswept Isles - "Evening Gala Aran", "Londonderry Rose Coat", "Sanquhar Bonny Socks", "Simply Smashing Cardigan", "Cowl Collar Jumper", "Hunter's Argyle Socks", "Highland Fling Plaid Jacket", "Celtic Hooded Coat", "Faux Fair Isle Fairy Socks", "Edwardian Lace Coat", "World Class Wee Sweaters", Fair Isle Tam Capelet" and "Galway Bay Shrug Shawl"; Old World - "Roman Holiday Shrug", "Parisian Entrelac Wrap", "Black Forest Mitts", "La Belle Cardigan", "Austrian Alps Zip Jacket", "Oktoberfest Glove Cuffs", "Tyrolean Leg Warmers" and "Florentine Shrug"; Around the Mediterranean - "Spanish Rose Trellis Scarf", "Damascus Dream Dress", "Senorita's Floral Pullover", Ottoman Empire Jacket", "El Matador Jacket", "Lisbon Lace Jacket", "Isis Tunic" and "Greco Mosaic Bags"; Far East - "Shanghai Garden Scarf", "Shibori Blossom Bag", "Fuji Feather Lace Wrap", "Mongolian Warrior Pullover" and the "Hai-Riyo" dragon; New World - "Andes Tunic Vest", "Fiesta Skirt", "Cowichan Vision Wrap Coat", "Great Bear Zip Tunic", "La Paz Scarf & Cap" and "Great Plains Blanket Bag".This is Nicky's largest, most important collection of patterns to date!
Other books by this author include: Cover Up, Fabulous Felted Bags, The Knit Hat Book, Knits for Barbie Doll, Knitted Flowers, Knitting Beyond the Edge, Knitting For Your Home, Knitting Never Felt Better, Knitting On the Edge, Knitting Over the Edge, Nicky Epstein's Knitted Embellishments and Winter White Knits.
Knitting Over the Edge - Unique Ribs, Cords, Appliques, Color, Eclectic
by Nicky Epstein
11 1/2" x 9" Hardcover (168 pages)
2005, Sixth&Spring Books
$35.95 Canadian ($29.95 US)
The Second Essential Collection of Decorative Borders
With hundreds of new and super edgings to try, this is a must-have in every knitting library. Practically every knitted project needs an edging, and with her hit knitting reference, Knitting on the Edge, Nicky Epstein took the humble traditional rib to new heights.
Knitting Over the Edge takes the craft further, with more than 300 unusual edge combinations and shapings that will add a special, unique touch to any piece. The striking patterns will keep knitters of every level busy experimenting with different types of ties, loops, knots, braids, twists, bobbles and more. The topics explored in depth include cords, appliqueacutes (such as flowers, leaves, hearts, and geometrics), color work, and a host of truly extraordinary corners, angles, bindings, and closures.
Other books by this author include: Cover Up, Fabulous Felted Bags, The Knit Hat Book, Knits for Barbie Doll, Knitted Flowers, Knitting Beyond the Edge, Knitting For Your Home, Knitting Never Felt Better, Knitting on the Edge, Knitting on Top of the World, Nicky Epstein's Knitted Embellishments and Winter White Knits.
Knitting Out of Africa - Inspired Sweater Designs
by Marilyn Saitz Cohen
8 3/4" x 11 1/4" Softcover (143 pages)
2006, Interweave Press
$30.95 Canadian ($25.95 US)
Danish designer Marianne Isager offers 16 sumptuous and sophisticated handknitted sweaters inspired by African carpets, baskets, and other textiles.
The knitting techniques, including entrelac, double knitting, Intarsia, domino, and Fair Isle knitting, are used in traditional and contemporary ways.
The African Domino sweater was inspired by the small flashes of white visible on the backsides of leaping antelopes. You'll love the intriguing designs including a Shoowa vest and Kuba pullover, and relish the patterns echoing other regional African textiles, such as the mud-dyed fabrics from Bamana in Mali and the block design from the Asante people in Ghana. You'll also find reflections of African wildlife in some projects, from the leaping antelope to the flocks of birds to the showy giraffes and zebras.
Isager provides full instructions and charted patterns for each exquisite design in at least two adult sizes. These sweaters - all presented with step-by-step instructions and beautiful photographs - are worked in fingering-weight yarns.
The designs in this book include:They're not quick to knit, but they will be timeless classics, sure to make stunning additions to your wardrobe or lifelong gifts for the most special people in your life. Experienced knitters will enjoy trying some of the more involved shapes and designs, and may be inspired to take up the challenge of designing their own African-inspired garment!
The author also wrote Classic Knits.
Knitting Rules - The Yarn Harlot Unravels the Mysteries of Swatching, Stashing, Ribbing & Rolling to Free Your Inner Knitter
by Stephanie Pearl-McPhee
6" x 8" Softcover (224 pages)
2006, Versa Press
$16.95 Canadian ($13.95 US)
Stephanie Pearl-McPhee, the best-selling author of At Knit's End: Meditations for Women Who Knit Too Much and celebrated blogger and humorist of the knitting world, is back! Funnier than ever, Pearl-McPhee continues her running dialogue with her knitting compatriots - cheering them on to ever-greater heights in the climb to make knitting universally recognized as THE peak life experience.
Both a celebration of knitting and a sourcebook for practical information, this book is a collection of useful advice and emotional support for the knitter. Pearl-McPhee examines essential truisms of knitting, side by side with tongue in-cheek warnings, realities, and fantasies about the act of knitting and the people who do it.
In chapters on everything from yarn needles, gauge, and knitting bag essentials to hats, socks, shawls, and sweaters, Pearl-McPhee unravels the mysteries of what it is that makes knitting click, from the inside out. She dares to question longstanding rules and uncover the true essence of what makes a hat a hat, a sock a sock, and so on. Insights into why certain techniques work encourage knitters to take control and knit in the way that works best for them. As she says, "There are no knitting police."
The result is an illuminating, liberating (and hilarious!) look at knitting that will comfort the experienced knitter, surprise the mainstream one, and entice the beginner.
Other books by the author include At Knit's End: Meditations for Women Who Knit Too Much, Casts Off - The Yarn Harlot's Guide to the Land of Knitting,Things I Learned from Knitting ... whether I wanted to or not and Yarn Harlot - The Secret Life of a Knitter.
Knitting Scottish Kilt Hose and Hiking Socks - Ten Original Designs
by Joanne Gibson Hinmon
6" x 9" Softcover (61 pages)
2000, Dineidin Publishing
When the author's husband took up the bagpipes, he and fellow pipers asked her to "have a go" at making kilt hose, as the machine made variety were thin and lacked life. Her search for an available pattern was to no avail, so she proceeded to write one of her own. Today she knits 30 different designs of kilt hose and hiking socks for customers around the world.
This book provides the instructions needed to knit ten of her wonderful creations with names like: Black Bear, Braemar, Drone, Fearg, Highland, Isle of Skye, Kintail, Pibroch, Pipers and Tulloch. All are shown in black and white photographs along with detailed instructions. Also included are notes on adjusting sizing, colour, as well as a table of abbreviations, men's and women's foot sizing charts and yarn recommendations.
Knitting Simple Jackets - 25 Beautiful Designs
by Marilyn Cohen
8 1/2" x 10" Hardcover (112 pages)
2006, Lark Books
$30.95 Canadian ($25.95 US)
All knitters want to create something attractive that shows off their skills. Beginners and intermediate knitters who have little time and patience for difficult patterns will love these 25 simple, wearable jackets!
Every piece can be completed in relatively short order, thanks to the easy-to-follow instructions and well-thought-out designs. Knit a sporty Aran tweed car coat knit with triple strands of fuschia yarn. Cuddle up in a fluffy white jacket with a big ribbed collar and matching belt that can double as a scarf. Celebrate spring with a classy lightweight sleeveless jacket in cheerful yellow.
The patterns for these designs are simple - few are longer than two pages - with complete material lists and clear illustrations. The color photos of the finished garments capture their chic, contemporary style.
The author has also written Knitting Simple Sweaters from Luxurious Yarns
Knitting Simple Sweaters from Luxurious Yarns
by Marilyn Saitz Cohen
8 3/4" x 11 1/4" Hardcover (128 pages)
2003, Lark Books
$30.95 Canadian ($25.95 US)
Knit versatile sweaters with luxury yarns that lend elegance and sophistication to the simplest designs. These yarns, available in a wide range of colours and textures, are a pleasure to work with and make every sweater special.
Add a subtle pearly shine to a cotton sleeveless turtleneck with a little bit of viscose and polyester. There are only two pieces to knit - the front and back, and they are both the same. Wear this sweater under a tailored jacket in cooler weather or let it shine by itself in the summertime, over casual jeans or slinky silk pants.
Create a black, scoop-neck sweater that you'll want to put on all the time because it's lightweight and semi-fitted. Comfortable during the day, dramatic at night, it's sure to become a mainstay of your wardrobe.
Knit a cozy, oversized angora boatneck in a flattering heathery shade. It's a large-needle project with five easy cables on the front and the back, lending texture and interest to the simple design. You'll love how soft, warm, and sumptuous it feels.
What could be more delightful on a crisp, autumn day than a funnel neck pullover that you'll work up from a soft, medium-weight wool and rayon yarn, the colour of a cabernet sauvignon wine. The simple stockinette stitch is created on large needles, and the style is slightly fitted. One wide cable running up each sleeve provides additional flair.
Who says a hooded sweater has to be sporty? Yours will be the ultimate in sophistication when knit with Pashmina - the best of cashmeres. The easy garter stitch throughout prevents rolled edges, eliminates the need for ribbing, and gives body to the yarn.
Beginning and intermediate knitters who have little time and patience for complicated patterns, but who want to make something elegant and chic, will find just the thing in these 28 lavishly photographed sweaters. The designs are simple, but the wools are rich and sumptuous.
Imagine snuggling into - and showing off - a handmade cozy white cardigan and matching scarf in a thick, chunky yarn; a black cashmere hooded design; or a buttery soft gray Merino wool cable sweater. If you love tweeds, a silk and mohair sweater in a classic crew neck is the one for you. Go graceful in a versatile ballet-neck style, while an evening out calls for a silvery sweater that makes you shine. There are lightweight spring and summer fashions, too.
The patterns in this book include "Silk & Mohair Tweed Crew Neck", "Pearly-Shine Sleeveless", "Versatile Ballet-Neck", "Dramatic Scoop Neck", "Grey Angora Boatneck", "Sleeveless Black Magic", "Chocolate Decadance", "Pale Aqua Turtleneck", "Powder Blue Boatneck", "Vibrant Red Mohair", "Comfy Winter Turtleneck", "Cozy Funnel Neck", "Silvery Sweater", "Regal Funnel Neck", "Exquisite Lattice Cables", "Finest Cotton Eyelet Rib", "Quintessential Cardigan", "Cafe' Au Lait Sleeveless", "Sequined Mohair", "Pasmina Cashmere Hooded Sweater", "Perfect Turtleneck", "Glittery Bronze Tank Top", "Serene Green with One Cable", "Look of Linen", "Lilacs & Lace Eyelet Rib", "La Dloce Vita Silky Ribbon Knit", "Bamboo Stitch V-Neck" and "Lacy & Light Mohair".
The sweaters you knit with these sumptuous yarns feel great when you wear them and can turn even a simple outfit into a fashion statement. This book is a selection of the Crafters Choice Book Club.
The author has also written Knitting Simple Jackets - 25 Beautiful Designs.
Knitting Socks with Handpainted Yarn
by Carol J. Sulcoski
8 1/2" x 9" Softcover (128 pages)
2008, Interweave Press
$23.95 Canadian ($19.95 US)
Handpainted sock yarns have captured the hearts of countless knitters. Colorful sock yarns are little gems of the knitting universe, providing hours of knitting bliss that result in a luxurious hand-crafted item.
Author Carol Sulcoski, delves into the mystery of the handpainted sock yarn and divulges its secrets, explains how to make the best of these much-loved yarns, and shows how to knit with success with 20 new patterns designed just with these yarns in mind.
The designs in this book include: "Longbourn Socks", "Zigzag Lace Anklets", "Punctuated Rib Socks", "Staccato Socks", "Copper Penny Socks", "Color Collision Socks", "Split-Toe Sweethearts", "Whirlpool Socks", "Herringbone Rib Socks", "Schooner Socks", "Corrugated Stripe Socks", "Flame Thrower Socks", "Chevvy Socks", "Spot Check Socks", Potpourri Socks", "Spread Spectrum Socks", "Braided Gem Socks", "Escher Socks", "Goldengrove Socks", "Rib Fantastic Socks" and "Switcheroo Socks".
Knitters struggle with handpainted yarns. How do you design projects with them versus other types of yarns? How do you avoid the pitfalls of pooling and splotching? How do you combine multicolored handpaints with other types of yarns? Knitting Socks with Handpainted Yarn is designed to provide sock knitters with technical guidance so these wonderful yarns can be used to their best advantage, explaining the differences between various kinds of handpainted yarn and showing how to avoid undesirable effects.
Combining her hand-dyeing and knitwear designing knowledge, Carol shares techniques and tips to help every sock knitter turn out fabulous footwear. Fun, original sock patterns from a variety of contributors illustrate these techniques. The patterns will be written for widely-available hand-dyed yarns so that readers can get the same results, but readers will also learn to identify patterns for their unique yarns.
The Knitting Stitch Bible
by Maria Parry-Jones
6 1/2" x 8" Spiralbound Hardcover (256 pages)
2002, Quarto Publishing plc
$35.95 Canadian ($29.95 US)
The essential illustrated reference. Over 250 traditional and contemporary stitches photographed with easy-to-follow charts.
This book has been designed to meet the needs of all knitters - from the absolute beginner to the more accomplished - who want to explore the craft of hand knitting in a creative and imaginative way. How you use the book will depend on the level of your skills as a knitter, but the hope is that through its use, the readers skills will develop enormously.
This book contains a broad range of designs in seven different types of knitting (Knit & Purl, Rib, Cable, Bobble, Lace, Fair Isle and Intarsia) as well as a section on embellishments, which offers a sample of beaded or sequined swatches from each of the seven categories. Wherever possible, both swatches and charts have been reproduced at 100 percent and the type of wool used has been provided so the same effect can be achieved. The swatches were knit with different colours of cotton, wool, mohair, linen and other types of yarn making it easy to envision what the patterns would look like in finished garments. The book also includes a how-to-use section and a comprehensive list of symbols to provide clear guidance for all levels of knitters.
Charts have been used rather than patterns, as they are a better means of expressing the stitch techniques required for each stitch design. They are more concise and easy to follow than stitch-by-stitch instructions and, because they provide a visual element, are also easier to memorize. Learning to work from these charts is not a difficult task - just take it one step at a time!
The Knitting Sutra - Craft as a Spiritual Practice
by Susan Gordon Lydon
5 3/4" x 7 3/4" Softcover (176 pages)
2005, Broadway
This book has everything to do with knitting and nothing to do with knitting! It's for all who find pleasure and relaxation working with their hands, but knitters will fall in love with this book. If you're searching in any area of your life, read this. It might be the answer to making all well with the world. This is the personal journal of a knitter who found answers in her knitting. This is a truly delightful read -- no projects, patterns, etc., just thoughtful, humorous, spiritual, creative writing about a subject dear to many of our hearts.
Available for the first time in paperback, The Knitting Sutra reveals how women can learn to knit their way to nirvana.
When Susan Gordon Lydon was coping with a broken arm, her craft took on new significance. While knitting was essential to strengthening her hands, it also provided her with a newfound sense of peace and creativity. Immersed in brilliant colors, textures, and images of beautiful sweaters, Lydon found healing and enlightenment in a way she had never imagined. Capturing this journey of discovery, The Knitting Sutra recounts her remarkable membership in a community of craftswomen around the world, from sweater makers in Scotland to Navajo weavers, and the adventures that her craft led her on.
As she masters new techniques and conquers old obstacles, Lydon's story conveys how the lessons she learned from knitting, such as stillness and interdependence, later sustained her through a cancer diagnosis and even the incapacitation of her hands. The Knitting Sutra is both a meditation on craft and an affirmation for anyone seeking heartfelt comfort.
The author has also written Knitting Heaven and Earth: Healing the Heart with Craft.
Knitting Sweaters from the Top Down - Fabulous Seamless Patterns to Suit Your Style
by Cathy Carron
8 1/2" x 10" Hardcover (128 pages)
2007, Lark Books
$30.95 Canadian ($25.95 US)
Sweaters are the ultimate showcase for knitters - but most patterns require complicated piecing that can be a little tricky. These don't... and they look fantastic, too!
The seamless, top-down knitting method eliminates challenging construction, allowing knitters to focus instead on the individual details that make each sweater special. Not only does this guide thoroughly explain how the technique works - with information on reading patterns and understanding sizing - but it also teaches beginners how to design their own generic patterns for pullovers and cardigans in different yarn gauges.
All the sweaters are organized by yarn weight, and the projects include an elegant rolled-collar pullover, dramatic capelet, and Asian-inspired top.
The "Bulky" designs include: "Cocoon", "Aspen", "Sparks", "Verandah", "Nest" and "Birch". The "Chunky" patterns include: "New Leaf", "Indian Summer", "Evergreen", "Hyacinth", "Flora" and "Dewdrop". "Heavy Worsted" designs include: "Peony", "Cherry Blossom", "Flame", "Ember", "Snowberry" and "wild Plum" and "DK" weight designs include: "Coast", "Breeze", "Bloom", "Stardust", "Verbena" and "Violet".
The author has also written Hip Knit Hats - 40 Fabulous Designs.
Knitting Tips & Trade Secrets - Ingenious Techniques and Solutions for Hand and Machine Knitting and Crochet
edited by Pam Hoenig
9" x 7" Softcover (187 pages)
2006, Taunton Press
$14.95 Canadian ($14.95 US)
New Expanded and Revised Edition!
We all need a little help now and then. Whether it is how to build a better button hole or the best cast-on for a firm edge, who better to get advice from than regular knitters and crocheters across the country as well as top experts such as Barbara Walker, Maggie Righetti, and Meg Swansen. It's all here, in this big new edition with more than 340 tips and over 200 illustrations, organized for quick, easy access to give you solutions fast. With tried-and-true methods and novel new approaches for hand knitting, machine knitting, and crochet, this book covers it all!
Here is a compendium of clever and creative techniques for solving common hand knitting, machine knitting and crocheting problems. This handy reference has everything from choosing yarn to blocking and assembling a garment including how to: cast on perfectly, machine knit a tuck, make an easy bobble, manage yarn in multi-coloured knitting, correct an uneven crochet edge, follow an intricate pattern, soften an itchy sweater, reinforce a shoulder seam and how to knit a perfect buttonhole.
Knitters and crocheters of all skill levels will find more than one solution to every problem. These tips represent the best from Thread's popular Tips column, and they are clearly explained and illustrated to make all your knitting easier.
This new expanded version of the 1996 similarily named Knitting Tips & Trade Secrets - Clever Solutions for Better Hand Knitting, Machine Knitting and Crocheting contains 30% new material on everything from how to knit (and crochet) a better buttonhole to taking the kinks out of your circular needles. Organized by type of tip (yarn tips, tips for knitting in more than one color, tips for garment assembly, tips for machine knitters, crochet tips) for easy reference and illustrated with more than 170 step-by-step drawings, Knitting Tips and Trade Secrets Expanded is a knitting (and crochet) bag necessity.
Knitting Vacations with Meg Swansen - Cardigan Details
by Meg Swansen
DVD Video (90 minutes)
Schoolhouse Press
$33.95 Canadian ($27.95 US)
This video, based upon the design highlighted in Wool Gathering Newsletter #51, concentrates on knitting a circular Norwegian style Dropped-Shoulder, scooped neck cardigan and is aimed at knitters who may be embarking upon this type of garment construction for the first time. The body is knitted in the round from lower edge to shoulder, with a steek at the center neck. The sleeves are knitted from the cuff, and there is a lovely Norwegian colour-pattern at the tops of the sleeves and body. The armholes and center-front are cut open; sleeves sewn in and the border knitted on.
In this 90 minute video you will see casting on, increasing, short rows and wrapping, knitting-back-backward, steeks, colour pattern, machine stitching, cutting and sewing in the sleeves. The video covers all aspects of knitting the cardigan border directly on to the garment: the knit-up ratio, mitered corners, neck shaping, one-row button-holes, two-stitch I-Cord Cast Off, finishing the cut edge and more. The video also includes written instructions inside.
Other books by the author include: A Gathering of Lace, Handknitting with Meg Swansen, Meg Swansen's Knitting and Sweaters from Camp while the list of videos are: Knitting Around and Knitting Glossary.
Knitting Vintage Socks - New Twists on Classic Patterns
by Nancy Bush
7 1/2" x 9 1/2" Spiralbound Hardcover (120 pages)
2005, Interweave Press
$25.95 Canadian ($21.95 US)
Searching for new sock patterns? Try some old ones! Knitting Vintage Socks: New Twists on Classic Patterns adapts sock patterns from the Weldon's Practical Needlework book series, a compilation of "newsletters" published more than 100 years ago.
Knitting Vintage Socks features 24 classic patterns updated for today's knitters with gauges, up-to-date yarns, and twenty-first century methods and sizes. These include: "Gentleman's Shooting Stockings with Fluted Pattern", "Gentleman's Sock in Railway Stitch", "Gentleman's Sock with Lozenge Pattern", "Bed Sock in Lemmon Pattern Fancy Knit Stripe", "Cycling or Golf Stockings with Fancy Cuff in Trellis Pattern", "Heelless Sleeping Socks", "Child's French Sock in Citron Pattern and Diaper Knitting", "Child's First Sock in Shell Pattern", "Gentleman's Half Hose in Ringwood Pattern", "Gentleman's Sock in Evening Wear", "Evening Stockings for a Young Lady", "Fancy Silk Sock for a Child of 5 to 6 Years", "Gentleman's Fancy Sock", "Gentleman's Plain Winter Sock with Dutch Heel", "Child's Sock in Miranda Pattern", "Baby's Bootikin", "Little Child's Sock", "Infant's Fancy Silk Sock, First Size", "Ladies Useful Stockings" and "Ladies Silk Stockings with Clocks".
As well as the designs, the book includes fascinating household and historic tidbits from the era, along with little-known tips like an unconventional way to shape a heel. It's thorough but easy-to-follow patterns and instructions includes a helpful techniques section and a sturdy spiral binding that makes this book a breeze to bring along.
Intended for knitters of all levels, this walk down memory lane revives some very classic patterns that may have been gone but are not forgotten.
The author has also written Folk Knitting in Estonia, Folk Socks: The History and Techniques of Handknitted Footwear and Knitting on the Road - Sock Patterns for the Traveling Knitter.
Knitting with a Smile - Knitting Sketchbook
by Inger Fredholm
12" x 8 1/4" Spiralbound Softcover (120 pages)
2005, Inger Fredholm
Knitting with a Smile is an inspiring book that focuses on the myriad possibilities of Swedish fair isle and color knitting in ways that both delight and inform. This compact book has over 36 patterns and more than 70 photos by Inger Fredholm, a well known Swedish knitting designer who has been designing and executing her work for her numerous books and periodicals published over last 25 years throughout Scandinavia and France. Instructions are included for sweaters, caps, an afghan, a shawl, children's garments, vests, mittens, lace garments, and much more. This is must-read material for anyone interested in color pattern knitting.
The patterns in this book include: "Very Swedish Sweater", "Very Swedish Sweater for Children", "Very Swedish Cap", "Cap in Thick Cotton", "Alphy's Double Cuff", "Nils' Very Swedish Beanie", "Fisherman's Sweater", "Miranda's Very Swedish Afghan", "Real Raggstock Reversible Sweater", "Renholm Cap", "Triangular Shawl with Frill in Lace", "Shawl/Cape in Victorian Style", "Triple Wrap", "Small Jacket in Lace", "Elliot Jacket and Skirt", "Elliot Skirt in Lace", "Tango Dress", "A Little Girls Dress in Lace", "Lopnor - All-Over Patterned Gansey Sweater", "Lopnor Mittens - Three Variations", "Gansey in Two Colors", "Two-Color Jacket", "Leksand Coat", "Enskede Jacket", "Vest for a Fiance", "Stockholm Coat", "The Swedish Lusekofta", "Tuttifrutti Multi-Colored Sweater", "Two Fair Isle Sweaters in Natural Colors - Light Version", "Two Fair Isle Sweaters in Natural Colors - Dark Version", Lisa Fair Isle Sweater", "Alphonse Fair Isle Sweater", "Marigold Fair Isle Sweater", "Stella Polaris Sweater", "Stella Grey Starpatterned Coat" and "Stella Lilium Jacket".
The author has assembled a folk book that combines a knitting journal, text, photo album, and collections of patterns - all revolving around and inspired by colorful traditional Scandinavian knitwear. Patterns for garments in stranded two-color knitting and lace - including a pattern for a wonderful lacey tango dress - are shown side by side with pieces on the history of knitting in Scandinavia, wonderful photographs of knitted garments old and new, and a recipe for Very Swedish Cinnamon Buns.
Knitting with Beads: 30 Beautiful Sweaters, Scarves, Hats & Gloves
by Jane Davis
9" x 10 1/4" Softcover (128 pages)
2003, Lark Books
Knit one and bead too: these patterns combine two favorite crafts for breathtaking results. Thirty gorgeous projects, shown in color photos and accompanied by charts, offer a variety of styles, colors, and materials. Every design simply begs knitters to try out new techniques.
Picture a lacelike scarf knit from angora yarn, accented with delicate crystals. Enjoy an evening out dressed in a black knit camisole, embellished with small metallic beads and shimmery beaded fringe. See how a simple, classic cable hat becomes something special with sparkly beaded details. A beautiful autumn shawl drips with bead fringing, and it's super quick to make. Or jazz up a denim-colored tank top and bag, transform a beret into something oh-so-chic, and dress up a pair of woolen gloves.A basics section details several techniques for incorporating beads into knitting, including embroidery, fringe, and applique.
Make fresh and exciting knitted designs highlighted with distinctive beadwork. Featuring a kaleidoscope of colours and textures, these projects go beyond the typical purses and bags knit with small threads, or eveningwear with bead embroidery. These sweaters, scarves, hats and gloves are stylish and chic, and can be worn every day.
In some of the projects, you'll add beads to knitwear after you've completed the garment. Attaching beads to finished items enhances the detail of the knitted design. Quickly knit up a cozy coat with thick, colour-flecked yarn and big needles. Lend it an elegant finishing detail with bead embroidery - it will blend in with yarn colour, yet add another texture to the cable and seed stitch pattern.
Another beautiful embellishment you can create is a lovely fringe of golden, glittering beads on a lacy black mohair and silk scarf that's as light as air. The lacework is easy to control with wood or bamboo needles, and the five-row repeat pattern makes this an ideal weekend project.
Other designs involve techniques that are most purely knitting with beads. For example, beads are strung onto the yarn and then slid in front of, between, or onto the stitches as they are made. A pair of gloves features only a touch of beadwork to provide sophistication, a blouse has a small inset of beaded knitting, and a sweater includes a center bead knitted panel.
Enhance your creativity further by combining techniques. The "Black Diamond Hat" has a touch of beaded knitting at its cuff and a group of fringe dangles at the tip, while the "Black Evening Camisole" uses an all-over pattern of beaded knitting and ends with a bead netted fringe. Other projects include "Cable Hat", "Felted 1920s Hat", "Fair Isle Vest", "Cable Coat", "Rustic Sweater", "Felted Fall Vest", "Jeweled-Flower Sweater", "Lumber Jill Hat", "Petite Lace Scarf", "Chenille Tunic", "Fringed Autumn Shawl", "Carpet Bag", "Peyote-Stitch Tunic", "Bead-Stranded Vest", "Checkered Hat", "Lacy Blouse", "Shawl-Collar Tunic", "Cascading Diamonds Scarf", "Dressed-Up Sweater", "Dressed-Up Gloves", "Denim Tank Top", "Denim Bag", "Autumn-Leves Beret", "Ocean-Spirals Hat", "Floral-Panel Sweater", "Falling-Leves Scarf", "Delicate Lace Scarf" and "Striped Blouse".
Using six basic techniques you'll be able to create a wealth of designs that stand out from any others you'll see. This book is a selection of the Crafters Choice Book Club.
Knitting with Hand-Dyed Yarns - 20 Stunning Projects
by Missy Burns, Stephanie Blaydes Kaisler and Anita Tosten
8 1/2" x 11" Softcover (112 pages)
2004, Martingale & Company
$35.95 Canadian ($29.95 US)
Let the vibrant colours and rich textures of hand-dyed yarns guide you on your next knitting adventure! Instantly give a designer look to pullovers, cardigans, vests and more. This project collection makes it easy to go from a striking skein of yarn to a spectacular fashion finish.
Choose from 20 patterns that are based on simple knit, purl and slip stitches. Enjoy classic silhouettes in pullovers, cardigans, vests, and more - including two men's sweaters. Knit with an array of fibers, from cotton, wool, and rayon to luxury fibers like alpaca, mohair and llama. Learn to strand two or more yarns together to create your own textures and colours.
Designs in this book are broken into sections covering techniques. In Stranding the designs are "Lady of the Lake", "Random Ridges", "Plain and Pebble Patterns" and "Flying Solo"; in Knit and Purl they include "Cream of the Crop", "Ribbed Elegance", "Steppin' Out" and "Is it a Vest? Is it a Shawl?"; Broken Garter has the "Four-by-One Short-Sleeved Sweater", "Three-by-Three Vest", "Five-by-Two Sweater" and "Three-by-Two Socks"; Trims and Accests includes "Textured Miter", "Nights in Natchez", "Tough to Beat" and "All Turned Around" and finally in Slip Stitch there is "Tundra Trail", "Southern Cross", "A Walk in the Garden" and "Raging Reds".
All patterns are shown with multiple colour photographs and full instructions including charts where required are provided. In addition, each of the designs is coded as "Beginner", "Easy, "Intermediate" or "Experienced" to make it easy to select a project to match the knitters skill level.
Colour outside the lines! Fall in love with the colours and textures of hand-dyed yarns. Discover how to show off hand-dyed yarns to their best effect with this collection of stylish designs.
Knitting with Novelty Yarns - Exploring Color, Texture, and Style
by Laura Militzer Bryant & Barry Klein
8 1/2" x 11" Softcover (142 pages)
2001, Martingale & Company
$42.95 Canadian ($35.95 US)
The days of big shapeless sweaters and monotone yarns are over! The glorious textures and colours of novelty yarns are all the rage. These simple, smart techniques will guide you through knitting with the array of new novelty yarns available. You'll find that they're not only easy to use, they're adaptable to most any project.
Sixteen classic-to-contemporary patterns will introduce you to the stitches, gauges, and finishing methods that work best with these versatile fibers. Plus, patterns are knit up twice using a different set of yarns each time, so you can see how the yarns you choose can alter the look of your projects.
The book includes quick-to-knit wraps, plus gorgeous sweaters and jackets that are each shown in two variations - one from each designer - so you can choose your favorite look. The authors help you make the right yarn choices with the help of a complete introduction to plant, animal and synthetic fibres, as well as boucle, eyelash, brushed, plied and woven yarns. As a special bonus, learn this design duo's professional techniques for taking accurate measurements and tailoring patterns to achieve a custom fit for every project, every time.The designs in the collection have wonderful names like: "Multiyarn Magic", Three for the Road", "Grid Lock", "Quilted Delight", "Interlocking Interest", "Textured Twosome", "Ultimate Elegance", "Pinstripes and Puckers", "Texture Two Ways" and "All Trimmed Up". The collection of wraps from Laura includes: "Shine On", "Misty Morning Moment", "Garter Stitch Grandeur" and from Barry include: "Waves of Pleasure", "Textured Treat" and "All Tied Up".
Knitting with Novelty Yarns will give you all the information and inspiration you need to knit with these fabulous fibres! This book is a burst of colour using a large number of colour photographs to show the yarn, the designs and close-up pictures of the stitch work.
Other books by Barry Klein include: The Knitter's Template - Easy Steps to Great Fitting Garments and Knitovation - Creative Knitwear Made From 3 Simple Shapes.
Knitting with Wire
by Nancia M. Wiseman
6" x 7 1/4" Softcover (90 pages)
2003, Interweave Press
$21.95 Canadian ($17.95 US)
Knitting with wire is becoming wildly popular among not only knitters but also beadworkers, wireworkers and jewelry makers. With only basic knitting skills, you can create beautiful and unique projects with wire. Included are complete descriptions of tools and techniques, embellishing with beads and how to make findings and finishes for your projects.
This book includes 30 exiting and innovative projects to knit by hand, machine or the Viking technique. These include necklaces, bracelets, collars, baskets, boxes, bowls, beaded ties and purses and so much more! The complete list of projects in this book is as follows: "Purple Beaded Bracelet and Necklace", "Pink and Purple Square Basket", "Woven Basket", "Mini Beaded Cardigan and Pullover", "Copper Sock and Mary Jane Shoe", "Asymmetrical Sculpture", "Black Pearl and Multigem Bracelet and Necklace", "Ebony and Ivory Collar", "Red Beaded Purse", "Autumn Leaves Necklace", "Necklace with Large Bead", "Double Wire Viking Knitting with Pendant", "Heavy Viking Knit Gold Bracelet", "Watchband", "Silver Twist Bracelet and Necklace", "Cuffs with Scrolls", "Viking Knit Covered Vase", "Gold Bowl", "Beaded Ties", "Copper Weaving", "Knitted Wire Box", "Fringed Necklace", "Roses", "Leaves", "Rose Pin", "Rose Necklace", "Bridal Comb" and "Flower Hat".
As well as the projects, the author provides detailed instruction on the three techniques used to make them. A complete list of required tools as well as information on how to choose the right wire makes this a complete guide to the subject. Colour photographs of each design are provided along with line drawings clearly showing each technique.
Other books by this author include: Classic Knitted Vests, Knitted Shawls, Stoles & Scarves, Knitted Sweaters for Every Season, The Knitter's Book of Finishing Techniques, Lace from the Attic and the videos: Learn to Knit - Basic Knitting and Sweater Finishing, Basic Sock Video, Continental Knitting, Hand Knitted Lace and Three Techniques for More Colourful Knitting.
Knitting Without Tears - Basic Techniques and Easy-to-Follow Directions for Garments to Fit all Sizes
by Elizabeth Zimmermann
8 1/4" x 10 3/4" Softcover (120 pages)
1995, Simon & Shuster
$21.95 Canadian ($17.95 US)
The author has such a delightful writing style that it is fun to read her books even if you don't knit. If you do, though, you have an extra bonus because the contents of the book are invariably excellent. This one is no exception as she starts off describing her common-sense philosophy of knitting with a large chapter called "The Opinionated Knitter" which also includes a great deal of basic information of a wide variety of knitting topics such as: techniques, borders, pockets, splitting and joining wool and needles. After a chapter called "Gauge: Required Reading" the author jumps into projects with chapters called: "Ski Sweater in Color Patterns", "Seamless Sweaters", and "Other Knitted Garments". The latter chapter includes information on a "Kangeroo-Pouch Sweater", "Modular Tomten Jacket", as well as basic nformation on how to make Coats, Hats (including "Tam-o'-Shanter", "A Two-Colored Hat", "Watchcap" and "Snail Hat"), Socks, Mittens, Scarves, Skirts, Shawls, Afghans and Pillows. The author finishes her book with a chapter on "The Washing of Sweaters".
Other books by Elizabeth Zimmermann include: The Knitter's Almanac, Knitting Around, Knitting Workshop and the Knitting Workshop Video. The videos the author collaborated on with her daughter Meg Swansen include: Knitting Around, Knitting Glossary and The Opinionated Knitter.
Knitting Workbook
by Debbie Bliss
8 3/4" x 11" Hardcover (128 pages)
2001, Trafalgar Square
$30.95 Canadian ($25.95 US)
All the techniques and guidance you need to knit successfully, including over 20 projects
Best-selling author Debbie Bliss returns with a complete guide to creative knitting, with step-by-step instruction, personal tips, and stunning original projects for sweaters, jackets and accessories. Bliss offers more than a guide to the basic techniques - she also reveals the key elements of her successful designs, then takes you through them step-by-step.
She begins with a fully illustrated how-to-knit section, then moves on to the techniques essential to creating beautiful knitwear, from the use of simple shapes and colour work to creative finishing techniques, including beading and embroidery. Encouraging knitters to practice and perfect their newly learned skills, she then presents more than twenty gorgeous projects, including a baby's cashmere scarf and hat, a moss-stitch jacket, an embroidered bag, and a beaded cardigan. Packed with colour photos and illustrations, this is the perfect introduction to creative knitting, from casting on the first stitch to creating an intricate Fair Isle cardigan.
After a chapter on "Knitting Basics", the author groups the patterns into six chapters: "Simple Shapes", "Knitted Textures", "Color Knitting", "Embroidery on Knitting", "Edgings on Knitting" and "Buttons and Beads" that start by covering the techniques required. The designs include: "Baby's Cashmere Scarf and Beanie Hat", "Child's V-Neck Tunic", "Baby's Top with Seed Stitch Trim", "Raglan Sweater with Funnel Neck", "Seed Stitch Jacket", "Cable Cushion", "Aran Throw", "Child's Guernsey with Hood", "Cabled Sweater", "Man's Denim Guernsey", "Fair Isle Socks", "Child's Fair Isle Sweater", "Floral Cardigan with Picot Edge", "Child's Smock", Embroidered Denim Jacket", "Embroidered Bag", "Cashmere Baby Blanket", "Girl's Lace-Edged Cardigan", "Beaded Cardigan" and "Beaded Moccasins".
Knitting Workshop
by Elizabeth Zimmermann
6 1/4" x 9 1/4" Hardcover (183 pages)
1996, Schoolhouse Press
$22.95 Canadian ($18.95 US)
The author teaches with warmth, humor, and skill and she wants you to learn. This book is based on a workshop — and starts you at the very beginning — making a pull skein, casting on a testing gauge — and advances quickly to colour-pattern knitting. In the next set of lessons, a seamless yoke sweater and a drop shoulder sweater are taught. Then you’re ready for seamless shoulder shapings, lace shawls, Arans, and more. Principles are taught, but you must make calculations to suit your yarn and size. There is much information here, many questions answered, and many good ideas and hints printed outside the lessons mentioned.
Other books by the author include: The Knitter's Almanac, Knitting Around, Knitting Without Tears, Knitting Workshop, the Knitting Workshop Video and The Opinionated Knitter. The author collaborated with her daughter Meg Swansen on the videos: Knitting Around and Knitting Glossary.
Knitting Workshop DVD
Elizabeth Zimmermann
3 DVD Set (6 hours)
2006, Schoolhouse Press
$59.95 Canadian ($49.95 US)
This 6 hour collection of video instruction, now updated to DVD format is from a 12-part series that was shown on PBS-TV and follows the information given in her book Knitting Workshop. The whole workshop is divided into a series of lessons that begin at the start and as the video progresses and the viewers skills increase, cover more complicated topics.
In this workshop, the viewer will start with the basics by knitting a hat before moving on to two sweaters. The first is a seamless yoke sweater and the second is a drop-shoulder sweater. The final tape of "Master Classes" covers more advanced techniques including shaping, lace patterns, Arans, Guernseys, and Fair Isle designs. Elizabeth Zimmermann always knits in the round using the knit-to-fit method of pattern design called EPS (Elizabeth's Percentage System).
Other books by the author include: The Knitter's Almanac, Knitting Around, Knitting Without Tears, the Knitting Workshop and The Opinionated Knitter. The author collaborated with her daughter Meg Swansen on the videos: Knitting Around and Knitting Glossary.
Knitting Yarns and Spinning Tales - A Knitter's Stash of Wit and Wisdom
by Kari Cornell
5" x 7 1/4" Hardcover (224 pages)
2005, Voyageur Press
$21.95 Canadian ($17.95 US)
A unique collection about 23 essays and stories on knitting and spinning.
Knitting Yarns and Spinning Tales brings to life the unique and universal experiences of knitters from a variety of backgrounds. This exceptional collection combines lighthearted essays with more philosophical pieces from authors and experts such as Meg Swansen, Perri Klass, Lily Chin, Teva Durham, Lela Nargi, Susan Gordon Lydon, Suzyn Jackson, Amy Singer, Greta Cunningham, Laura Billings, Kay Dorn, Betty Christiansen, and Jennifer Hansen, who put down their needles long enough to share their thoughts and musings about the popular pastime. In these entertaining yarns, the authors provide insight into the warmth and enjoyment of knitting and crocheting.
Join one writer as she shares a poignant Sunday afternoon in March shearing sheep with her father; travel to Sant 'Arsenio, Italy, where women gather on their door steps to knit, crochet, embroider, and chat; laugh at one woman's memories of learning to knit in an uncomfortable classroom chair beside a World War II vet named Max; and smile at the essays that delve into the psyche of the knitter. If you live to knit, enjoy the companionship of other knitters, or appreciate the intricate handiwork of a handmade sweater, Knitting Yarns and Spinning Tales is a must-read!
Knitwear Design Workshop - The Comprehensive Guide to Handknits
by Shirley Paden-Bernstein
8 1/2" x 10 1/4" Spiralbound Hardcover (343 pages)
2010, Interweave Press
$47.95 Canadian ($39.95 US)
Learn to design knitwear with a perfect individual fit!
From the initial spark of inspiration to the sewing of the last seam, Shirley Paden will guide you through the knitwear design process in the new Knitwear Design Workshop. Based on successful workshops Paden teaches to the fashion industry in New York, Knitwear Design Workshop finally gives you the foundation to take your knitwear designs to the next level with confidence.
A prolific knitwear designer, Shirley Paden's impressive work serves as a concrete example to identify the right yarn for particular garment design and pattern stitches, and to knit a perfect fit. Instructions for five new projects designed by Paden will further demonstrate how the techniques learned can translate into one-of-a-kind garments.
The book includes lessons on how to design double-tapered, single-tapered, and reverse-tapered garments with sleeves or sleeves caps that fit as well as how to best use a stitch pattern to achieve the perfect look. The reader will learn a clearer understanding of commercial pattern instructions, ways to improve their attention to detail with a meaningful test swatch, stronger knowledge of proper body or garment measurements and much more!
Projects in this book include: "Twist Flowers Pullover", "Cable Coat with Cape Collar", "Double Leaves & Twists Duster" and "Pea Coat".
Knitwear Design Workshop is for all knitters who want to go beyond commercial pattern instructions, whether it's modifying those instructions for a garment that fits them perfectly, designing their own traditional knitwear, or creating stunning works of wearable art. This priceless information is a gem for your knitting library.
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