3 Books to Inspire Your Knitting Technique
On this rainy autumn afternoon, what better way to find inspiration and learn new techniques than by curling under a favorite blanket with a cat (or two), a mug of tea, and a pile of knitting books? Today’s books include two newly published titles and a quiet gem. Each contain a staggering amount of inspiration and helpful information within their modest covers. I hope you enjoy them as much as I have.
Knitting with Two Colors: Techniques for Stranded Knitting and Designing Color-Patterned Garments
by Meg Swansen and Amy Detjen
Schoolhouse Press, 2011
Paperback, 9780942018349, 64pp.
There are primarily three types of knitting books: project books, stitch dictionaries, and those of educational techniques. It’s this last category that is difficult to write effectively, how does one translate a class to paper? A mere transcription of a class session does not suffice. Knitting with Two Colors is a slim book that does the impossible and more. In just 64 pages you learn how to knit effectively, efficiently, and effortlessly with two colors.
Read the entire review at goodreads →
Brioche Chic: 22 Fresh Knits for Women & Men
by Mercedes Tarasovich-Clark
Interweave Press, 2014
Paperback, 9781620334423, 151pp.
In knitting, the brioche stitch is a unique stitch that combines two common techniques, double knitting with a k1p1 rib to create a unique fabric that’s thick and textural. Brioche fabric is often reversible and colour work is simpler than in many traditional forms as each colour is worked one at a time. Brioche Chic lives up to its title providing 22 knitting patterns many of which are suitable or designed specifically for men. In addition, it contains several knitting classes-worth of material covering the basics of brioche knitting and beyond. The educational sections contain clearly photographed knit swatches, line drawings to illustrate techniques, descriptions, and useful tips. After covering the basics, Tarasovich-Clark shows how the technique can expand into colourful and creative possibilities. Note: the publisher sent me a copy this book to review as part of a blog book tour.
Read the entire review at goodreads →
Knockout Knits: New Tricks for Scarves, Hats, Jewelry, and Other Accessories
by Laura Nelkin
Potter Craft, 2014
Paperback, 9780385345781, 144pp.
Knockout Knits is a book that will surprise you. Even if you are a knitter who prefers traditional stitches, construction, and embellishments, I believe you can find inspiration and useful tips in this volume. Organized in three sections–wrapped stitches, advanced lace, and beaded knitting–each includes why Nelkin loves the technique, covers the basic skills with very clear illustrations, and includes several patterns that highlight what was learned. This isn’t the sort of book I would expect to love, but I do.
Read the entire review at goodreads →
Curious about the business side of craft? Several thoughtful posts were published recently including Diane’s Is It Worth It to Write a Craft Book?.
What recent book discovery has amazed, taught, and inspired you?