Sunday, September 27, 2009

Inspired Cable Knits: 20 Creative Designs for Making Sweaters and Accessories by Fiona Ellis

Published 2009
Internationally acclaimed knitwear designer Fiona Ellis shares the meditative power of "mindful" knitting in this collection of 20 stunning cable designs. Enriched by notes from the author about the spark behind her creative process, Inspired Cable Knits is ideal for intermediate and returning knitters looking for a new approach to a traditional technique.

Fascinated by nature’s wonderful variety of patterns and textures, Ellis offers new twists on cable knits. Inspired by the beauty of sand rippled by the tide, the grooves and ridges of tree bark, jagged lightning bolts, and yoga poses–these patterns are beautiful and unique. Ellis, whose designs have been acquired by many top names in the fashion industry, explains cable knitting thoroughly and offers step-by-step instruction and charts for each pattern.

The book’s 20 unique patterns are grouped according to the four themes that have shaped Fiona’s design philosophy: change, nature, energy, and time. This book encourages knitters not only to create everything from sweaters to tank tops, yoga bags to pillows, and wraps to scarves, but also to experience and think

Knitted Homestyle by Hachette

Published 2009

Knitted Homestyle brings together the best hand-knit projects from The Art of Knitting magazine, offering a wealth of ideas for any knitter. A diverse range of home accessory projects, from knitted pictures, pillows and throws to pet blankets and smaller more delicate projects such as egg cozies fill the pages. As with all Knitter's Bible project books, knitting techniques are clearly explained and easy-to-follow. Relish in this valuable resource of contemporary and stylish knitted projects that are sure to brighten up any home.

Knit Green: 20 Projects and Ideas for Sustainability by Joanne Seiff

Published 2009

Let Your Knitting Go Green

Knit Green offers tons of information and ideas on everything you need to be a more environmentally conscious knitter. From sourcing materials locally and using organic products, to supporting fair work and fair trade programs, Knit Green is a tremendous source of information to help you tailor your craft to your convictions.

Fashion-forward knitting and easy-to-digest essays come together to help you "green-up" your hobby and easily implement suggestions and strategies for sustainability in the context of knitting. You'll get a full exploration of green avenues and product options, including organically -farmed fibers, non-animal yarns, alternative or recycled fibers and yarns, fair work and fair trade companies and programs, buying local, sustainable farming and energy in yarn production, and more. Plus, you'll find more than 20 fashionable patterns that don't sacrifice style for sustainability.

  • 20 projects for environmentally conscious knitting
  • Full exploration of green knitting product options
  • From the author of Fiber Gathering

From vegan options to eco-diversity, Knit Green gives you the tools you need to green-up not only your knitting, but your whole life!

Top-Notch Knits: 33 Designs to Jazz Up Your Wardrobe by That Patchwork Place

Published 2009

Easy Cable Knits for All Seasons by Andra Knight-Bowman

Published 2009

Silky Little Knits: Luxurious Designs and Accessories in Mohair-Silk Yarns by Alison Crowther-Smith

Published 2009
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With more than 20 unique projects, this collection of designs for knitting with mohair-silk yarn—a popular fiber known for its gossamer lightness and wonderful sheen—is the perfect gift for knitters craving new crafting ideas. A superb assortment of projects are featured, such as the gleam shawl, latticework scarf, stella shrug, starry beaded cape and corsage, colorwash mittens, frilled socks and bag, and ribbed hat, as well as designs for cushions and a throw, and a few projects that use classic wool and cotton yarns. For those new to the skill, a wide range of tips are shared, from how to turn the heel on a sock to knitting on four needles.

Reversible Knitting: 50 Brand-New, Groundbreaking Stitch Patterns by Lynne Barr, Thayer Allyson Gowdy (Photographer)

Published 2009

Most of the stitch dictionaries on knitters’ shelves are remixes of familiar stitch patterns already published elsewhere. Not so for Lynne Barr’s groundbreaking book Reversible Knitting. Not only is every one of the 50 stitch patterns completely new and never before seen, but each is also reversible—for a total of 100 different looks!Reversible stitch patterns can be used to create projects where either side can be worn facing outward, or where two sides of the piece are visible simultaneously (such as a scarf or a garment with collar or cuffs that that can be worn up or down). In addition to stitch patterns, the book features 20 such projects—from accessories like scarves, hats, and socks to sweaters and dresses—designed by the author and by 12 top knitwear designers including STC authors VĂ©ronik Avery, Norah Gaughan, and Teva Durham. Rounding out the book are in-depth instructions for the specialized techniques required for reversilbe work.

It's In the Bag: Knitting Projects to Take & Make by Kara Gott Warner (Editor)

Published 2009

Featuring helpful tips on how to make traveling with knitting fun and easy, these projects offer a variety of travel-friendly designs. This guide is all about the knitting bag—what to put in it, how to organize it, and where to take it. A special addition is the Take & Make Journal, which helps to track progress on the road by allowing knitters to log yarn, needles, and where they last left off in the pattern.

99 Yarns and Counting: More Designs from the Green Mountain Spinnery by Green Mountain Spinnery Cooperative

Published 2009

Gorgeous knitting patterns designed by the Green Mountain Spinnery of Putney, Vermont.

The Joy of Sox: 30+ must-knit designs by Linda Kopp

Published 2009

Sox rocks! Here comes the hottest collection of knitted socks yet, filled with 30-plus designs, a variety of techniques, tips, and playful trivia from those in the know. And it’s all in one flirtatiously fresh package.
Aimed at the knitter who is super-passionate about socks, The Joy of Sox delivers on its name. With their tantalizing cables, intricate lacework, and intriguing color work, the patterns represent the very best in sock design. There are revamped classics, bold new styles, and even a few themed socks—like the diamond lace thigh-highs and toeless pedicure socks.
In addition to the results of our online knitting poll, you’ll also get fun stuff, including info from knitting personality Laurie Perry and phenoms Laura Bryant and Shannon Okey.

Cardigans by Louisa Harding

Published 2009

With their classic flair and unsurpassed versatility, cardigans are a staple of women's wardrobes. In her attractive new collection, famed knitwear designer Louisa Harding shares her patterns for gorgeous cardigans in styles ranging from romantic and feminine to fun and flirty. Knit in Harding’s own line of luxurious yarns, the projects include an adorable cardigan with picot edging and a sailor collar; one with short puffed sleeves and lace trim; a swingy cropped cardigan; a summery striped version with a single-button closure; and a comfy knee-length cardigan with pockets. They’re sure to be popular with all knitters.

AwareKnits: Knit & Crochet Projects for the Eco-Conscious Stitcher by Vickie Howell, Adrienne Armstrong

Published 2009

The fiber world is all abuzz about sustainable yarns and alternative materials, and AwareKnits jumps on this trend with a socially conscious approach to knitting and crochet.

Knitting superstar Vicikie Howell and activist-knitter Adrienne Armstrong present a groundbreaking volume that’s part pattern book and part crafty call to action. They offer 31 stylish projects that use a variety of “green” yarns, including ones from soy, corn, and hemp.

Knitted Toy Tales by Laura Long

Published 2009

From bunnies and bears to Russian dolls and robots, discover a unique range of over 20 adorable little knitted characters, each packed with personality and individual charm. The softly colored characters are a joy to knit, and their fun size is perfect for gift giving or as a quirky home accent. The projects combine simple knits with cute fabric appliqué accents to add that extra element not always found in traditional toy knitting titles. Clear instructions, fun narrative text and sweet photography speak to all knitters, regardless of level.

Rowan's Greatest Knits : 30 Years of Knitted Patterns from Rowan Yarns by Rowan Yarns Ltd, Rowan Yarns (Created by) , Kaffe Fassett (Introduction)

Published 2009

Internationally renowned Rowan is a knitwear company that has been making gorgeous yarn and stylish, yet classic patterns to go with it for thirty years. With Rowans Greatest Knits, the company celebrates decades of great knitwear designs from such beloved and noted designers as Kaffe Fassett, Jean Moss, Sasha Kagan, and Annabel Fox. Featured in-house talent includes Martin Storey, Kim Hargreaves, and Marie Wallin. Included in Rowans Greatest Knits are 30 patterns from 1980 to the 2000s. With 80 stunning color photographs pulled from the original pages of Rowan magazine, Rowans Greatest Knits, with an an introduction by Kaffe Fassett, also presents its most popular patterns. And, these are modeled by, among others, a young Kate Moss. Patterns include yarn replacement suggestions.

Saturday, September 5, 2009

Fairy Tale Knits: 32 Projects to Knit Happily Ever After by A. Stewart-Guinee, Alison Stewart-Guinee, Stewart-guinee

Published 2009

32 whimsical patterns for children twelve months to eight years

Two timeless traditions-fairy tales and knitting-come together magically in the season's most original knitting book. You'll get patterns to knit pieces that are reminiscent of the world's most beloved fabled characters, including Cinderella, Little Red Riding Hood, Robin Hood, Hansel and Gretel, knights, pirates, and many more. From a fanciful capelet and muff to a playful baby jumper and hat, these are the children's knitting patterns dreams are made of.

Richly wrapped in the look and feel of a real storybook, Fairy Tale Knits is saturated with lush photography and a beautiful full-color design. Whether you're a beginner or experienced knitter, these 32 imaginative projects truly make for knitting happily ever after. You'll get

  • 32 patterns for innovative projects kids will love to wear
  • Designs that are wearable for everyday school and play
  • A full-color design featuring lush photography
Fairy Tale Knits is a sophisticated and enchanting knitting book you and your children will turn to again and again

Yarn Bombing: The Art of Crochet and Knit Graffiti by Mandy Moore, Leanne Prain

Published 2009

"An inspiring and unforgettable look at the world of knit graffiti and the creative folks behind it, Yarn Bombing deserves a place on any hip crafter's bookshelf."—Debbie Stoller, editor-in-chief of BUST magazine and author of the Stitch 'n Bitch books

On city street corners, around telephone posts, through barbed wire fences, and over abandoned cars, a quiet revolution is brewing. "Knit graffiti" is an international guerrilla movement that started underground and is now embraced by crochet and knitting artists of all ages, nationalities, and genders. Its practitioners create stunning works of art out of yarn, then "donate" them to public spaces as part of a covert plan for world yarn domination.

Yarn Bombing: The Art of Crochet and Knit Graffiti is the definitive guidebook to covert textile street art. This full-color DIY book features twenty kick-ass patterns that range from hanging shoes and knitted picture frames to balaclavas and gauntlets, teaching readers how to create fuzzy adornments for lonely street furniture. Along the way, it provides tips on how to be as stealthy as a ninja, demonstrates how to orchestrate a large-scale textile project, and offers revealing information necessary to design your own yarn graffiti tags. The book also includes interviews with members of the international community of textile artists and yarn bombers, and provides resources to help readers join the movement; it's also chock full of beautiful photographs and easy step-by-step instructions for knit and crochet installations and garments.

Join the yarn bombing revolution!

Swedish Knits: Classic and Modern Designs in the Scandinavian Tradition by Paula Hammerskog, Eva Wincent

Published 2009

Learn to knit luxurious sweaters, coats, dresses, and more with these Swedish-inspired patterns and instructions.

Men's Knits: 20 New Classics by Erika Knight

Published 2009

Whether you’re a man or a woman, chances are you’re holding this book because you want to find the right knitting project for a man in your life—be it your husband, your dad, or your best friend. But men are difficult to buy clothes for, not to mention knit for. They don’t want anything fussy, or too trendy. The color palette needs to be classic and the yarn should be soft but§ durable. They want something comfortable they can wear for years.

So join knitter extraordinaire Erika Knight as she takes on the knitwear that men love. Knight started her career designing menswear and over the decades she’s completely figured out their clothes-buying mentality. In Men’s Knits, she applies that expertise to come up with 20 projects that guys are sure to wear. Using classic shapes, a mostly neutral palette (but with some teals and chocolates thrown in for the slightly flashier guy), and natural yarns like wool, bamboo, and hemp, every piece is distinctive and stylish.

For men young and old, these designs will become the sweaters, vests, scarves, and hats they reach for again and again. The zipper cardigan is perfect for both reading the paper on Sunday morning and a casual dinner with friends on Sunday night. The herringbone sweater will impress his future boss at his next interview, or his future in-laws at their next family gathering. The argyle vest works on every man, whether he’s buttoned-up or laid back. Together, they’ll be the new classics you’ll want to knit, give, and maybe even borrow for years to come.

Whether it’s a textured vest or a hand-dyed sweater, you’re sure to findsomething that’ll look good on the man in your life–and not end up forever buried in his bureau.

The Knitter's Handbook: Yarns - Needles - Stitches - Techniques by Eleanor Van Zandt

Published 2009

From casting on and understanding patterns to creating intricate stitches and edgings, here is all the knitting know-how you'll ever need.

Whether you're a new knitter who wants to learn the basics, or an experienced knitter who wants to try complex patterns, THE KNITTER'S HANDBOOK provides clear, easy-to-follow guidance for over 250 stitches and techniques. Beginning with basics like casting on and simple textures and eventually building up to cables, jacquards, fair isles, embellishments and intricate ribbon patterns, this terrific visual resource offers a combination of photos and diagrams so it's easy to understand stitches and patterns at a glance.

Knitted Socks East and West : 30 Designs Inspired by Japanese Stitch Patterns by Judy Sumner, Yoko Inoue (Photographer)

Published 2009

In Knitted Socks East and West, author Judy Sumner compares knitting a sock to writing a haiku: both challenge you to create something beautiful and original within a sparse, strict format. In this, her first book, she recounts how she came to study hundreds of exquisite Japanese stitch patters and then apply her new knowledge to the sock designs showcased here.
Whether short or long, fine or bulky, simple or complex, each of the 30 designs in Knitted Socks East and West is named afer an intriguing aspect of Japanese culture. For example, the leg of the Origami crew socks appears to fold in and out; the Sumo slipper socks are named after the heavy, organic movement of the cables in their thick yarn; and the Ikebana knee socks highlight a textural floral design. Step-by-step text and easy-to-read charts are included for each design, along with illustrated directions for the Japanese stitchwork introduced in the projects.

Knitted & Felted Children's Clothes: 22 Delightful Designs for Tops, Hats, Scarves and Bags by Zoe Halstead

Published 2009

Using both knitting skills and felting techniques in which knitted materials are shrunk in hot water to create softer, fuzzier fabrics, the 22 designs featured here encompass a broad array of clothing styles and designs for toddlers and young children. There's a Jurassic Jacket for aspiring paleontologists, Groovy Gloves sure to keep little fingers warm on a blustery autumn day, and a Princess Cape that will become the prize possession of any young girl. Complete technical instructions, diagrams, charts, and color photography ensure that anyone can complete the projects.

Debbie Bliss Tips for Knitters : Stitches and Seams to Finishing Touches by Debbie Bliss

Published 2009

Written for new knitters looking for quick tips and experienced knitters desiring to improve their skills, this reference full of tested techniques outlines knitting essentials and gives crafters the know-how for creating their own patterns. Starting with the basics—from choosing yarns to casting on and off—this one-stop guide then moves to more complex procedures, such as incorporating buttons and beads. Useful advice can also be found in the section on correcting common errors, which is ideal for troubleshooting while working on a project. With beautiful photographs and simple illustrations, this is the perfect, all-in-one resource to keep in a knitting bag.

All New Homespun Handknit : 25 Small Projects to Knit with Handspun Yarn by Amy Clarke Moore

Published 2009

A follow-up to the original Homespun Handknit—a perennial bestseller for two decades—this collection revitalizes the craft of handspun yarn for a whole new generation of spinners and knitters. Packed with modern and traditional spinning know-how and 25 sophisticated, easy-to-learn projects, the guide helps crafters create unique gifts and wearable fashion while refining their skills and enhancing their understanding of this popular art form. With designs from some of the most influential knitters and spinners working today—including Kathryn Alexander, Jeanine Bakridges, and Abby Franquemont—this inspiring resource features hats, mittens, scarves, socks, bags, children’s items, wraps, and home dĂ©cor options to challenge fiber artists of all skill levels. Imparting essential and informative advice—on measuring yarns, reviewing woolen versus worsted, drive/tension differences, special techniques, and basic yarn dynamics—and complemented by basic knitting and spinning glossaries, this refreshing contemporary companion to a much-loved classic is an indispensable addition to every craft lover’s bookshelf.

One More Skein : 30 Quick Projects to Knit by Leigh Radford, John Mulligan (Photographer)

Published 2009

“Two needles and one (or one more) skein of yarn—the possibilities never cease to amaze me,” writes Leigh Radford in the introduction to her new book. Radford’s fascination with the creative potential of these raw materials is evident throughout One More Skein, where she melds the alternative approach to knitting and felting she introduced in AlterKnits and AlterKnits Felt with the magic she worked with a single skein of yarn in the bestselling One Skein.
One More Skein features 30 diverse projects that can be completed with one or two average-sized skeins of yarn or multiple bits of leftover yarn. Projects include an earflap hat sized for the whole family; fingerless mitts; sweaters, britches, and capelets for baby; hemp jewelry embellished with jump ring “beads”; a felted, pleated sleeve to dress up a vase; and a multicolored blanket worked from assorted stash yarn. All of them are quick and relatively easy to make, without sacrificing beauty or ingenuity.

The Big Book of Socks: The Ultimate Beyond-The-Basics Guide to Knitting Socks by Kathleen Taylor

Published 2009

Welcome to Kathleen Taylor's latest knitting extravaganza - a sock party in a book! The author of the best-selling Knit One, Felt Too and I Heart Felt is back with everything you ever wanted to know about socks, with 75 patterns to prove it. The Big Book of Socks is chock full of Kathleen Taylor's fun and fabulous designs for knitters of all ages and skill levels. There's something for everyone from stripes to cables to lace to intarsia and Fair Isle. You'll find funky toe-socks, snowflake house socks, booties, Christmas stockings, beaded socks, and many, many more. Taylor's instructions are a breeze to follow and she includes a special section that gives three different approaches to heel and toe construction. Each pattern contains sizing for children, women, and men, plus the book is packed with technique tips and information on selecting yarn and needles.

Norwegian Handknits: Heirloom Designs from Vesterheim Museum by Sue Flanders, Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum Staff (Contribution by), Laurann G

Published 2009

30 patterns for handknits from Vesterheim Museum in Decorah, Iowa—folk mittens, socks, scarves, hats, wristers, handbags, knapsacks, and sweaters—complete with history of the tradition.

Knitted Homestyle by Hachette

Published 2009

Knitted Homestyle brings together the best hand-knit projects from The Art of Knitting magazine, offering a wealth of ideas for any knitter. A diverse range of home accessory projects, from knitted pictures, pillows and throws to pet blankets and smaller more delicate projects such as egg cozies fill the pages. As with all Knitter's Bible project books, knitting techniques are clearly explained and easy-to-follow. Relish in this valuable resource of contemporary and stylish knitted projects that are sure to brighten up any home.

Silky Little Knits: Luxurious Designs and Accessories in Mohair-Silk Yarns by Alison Crowther-Smith

Published 2009

With more than 20 unique projects, this collection of designs for knitting with mohair-silk yarn—a popular fiber known for its gossamer lightness and wonderful sheen—is the perfect gift for knitters craving new crafting ideas. A superb assortment of projects are featured, such as the gleam shawl, latticework scarf, stella shrug, starry beaded cape and corsage, colorwash mittens, frilled socks and bag, and ribbed hat, as well as designs for cushions and a throw, and a few projects that use classic wool and cotton yarns. For those new to the skill, a wide range of tips are shared, from how to turn the heel on a sock to knitting on four needles.

It's In the Bag: Knitting Projects to Take & Make by Kara Gott Warner (Editor)

Published 2009

Featuring helpful tips on how to make traveling with knitting fun and easy, these projects offer a variety of travel-friendly designs. This guide is all about the knitting bag—what to put in it, how to organize it, and where to take it. A special addition is the Take & Make Journal, which helps to track progress on the road by allowing knitters to log yarn, needles, and where they last left off in the pattern.

Noro : Meet the Man Behind the Legendary Yarn*Knit 40 Fabulous Designs by Cornelia Tuttle Hamilton

Published 2009

No one creates yarns like Eisaku Noro. Made from rich natural materials and employing innovative color-blending techniques with long-repeat variegation, they have been acclaimed worldwide. In 2008, Noro yarn expert Cornelia Tuttle Hamilton sat down with the artist in his native Japan to discuss his craft, his commitment to sustainability and his unwavering dedication to knitting as an art form. The result is this fully-illustrated guide to using Noro yarns to best effect. Packed with color photographs and insights into the world of Noro, it features some 30 stunning projects, including hat-and-scarf sets, intricate pullovers, a richly textured shirt, and even a charming doggie vest!

The Joy of Sox: 30+ must-knit designs by Linda Kopp

Published 2009

Sox rocks! Here comes the hottest collection of knitted socks yet, filled with 30-plus designs, a variety of techniques, tips, and playful trivia from those in the know. And it’s all in one flirtatiously fresh package.
Aimed at the knitter who is super-passionate about socks, The Joy of Sox delivers on its name. With their tantalizing cables, intricate lacework, and intriguing color work, the patterns represent the very best in sock design. There are revamped classics, bold new styles, and even a few themed socks—like the diamond lace thigh-highs and toeless pedicure socks.
In addition to the results of our online knitting poll, you’ll also get fun stuff, including info from knitting personality Laurie Perry and phenoms Laura Bryant and Shannon Okey.

Cardigans by Louisa Harding

Published 2009

With their classic flair and unsurpassed versatility, cardigans are a staple of women's wardrobes. In her attractive new collection, famed knitwear designer Louisa Harding shares her patterns for gorgeous cardigans in styles ranging from romantic and feminine to fun and flirty. Knit in Harding’s own line of luxurious yarns, the projects include an adorable cardigan with picot edging and a sailor collar; one with short puffed sleeves and lace trim; a swingy cropped cardigan; a summery striped version with a single-button closure; and a comfy knee-length cardigan with pockets. They’re sure to be popular with all knitters.