Saturday, August 28, 2010

Jil Eaton's Knitting School: The Complete Guide to Becoming a Confident Knitter [Paperback]

Published 2010

If you’re a novice knitter or returning after a knitting sabbatical, Jil Eaton’s Knitting School will have you knitting like a pro in just 19 lessons. Jil Eaton is a knitting dynamo and she puts her 18 years of teaching and design experience, plus the know-how her popular Knit Simple “Ask Jil” column is known for, into this fully illustrated knitting primer that covers it all—from buttonholes to socks, cables to Fair Isle.

Each of the lessons features one of Jil's signature QuickKnits projects for men, women, and children. Projects include sweaters, shawls, mittens, hats, and kid knits selected especially to highlight Jil’s favorite tips and tricks for flawless knitting. These QuickKnits are designed for instant gratification, chic but simply made, with charming details providing that je ne sais quoi factor. Knitting every project will make even a true beginner feel like an expert.

Chock-full of photographs and step-by-step illustrations, along with advice on color, decorative trims, finishing, and knitting fixes, Jil Eaton's Knitting School will encourage readers to build their skills and master the craft with aplomb.

Knitting it Old School: 43 Vintage-Inspired Patterns [Hardcover]

Published 2010


44 patterns inspired by the '40s, '50s, '60s, and '70s

Knitters love all things vintage-but it's not as easy as picking up an old pattern from decades past. Oftentimes, they use obsolete yarns, aren't sized for today's body shapes, and are written differently than current pattern instructions.

Now, retro-minded crafters get the best of both worlds in this unique collection. Drawing from the fashion trends of the '40s through the '70s, Knitting it Old School offers a bold new twist on vintage-inspired knitting patterns.

Vintage patterns feature newly created designs that flatter today's figure and use contemporary yarns
Fun, wearable patterns that echo styles of days gone by
Four bonus sewing patterns to whip up complimentary vintage-themed accessories
With a balance of classic and kitsch, wardrobe basics and saucy specials, Knitting it Old School is a breath of fresh air for knitters who love "old" but want to be "new."


From the Inside Flap
43 patterns inspired by the '40s, '50s, '60s, and '70s

Love "old" but want to be "in vogue"? Welcome to Knitting It Old School, where you'll find patterns for knitting and crocheting everything from cheeky hot pants to his-and-hers sweater sets, all drawn from the fashion trends of the '40s, '50s, '60s, and '70s. All patterns feature newly created designs that flatter today's figure and use contemporary fibers—and that are written so modern crafters can easily follow along.

From classic to kitschy, wardrobe basics to saucy specials, get ready to start making beautiful handmade clothing the way your mother and grandmother did!

We're knitting it old school, folks!

More Last-Minute Knitted Gifts [Hardcover]

Published 2010


When STC Craft published Joelle Hoverson’s Last-Minute Knitted Gifts in 2004, the response was over­whelming and today there are nearly 100,000 copies of this classic in print. Six years later, Hoverson is full of fresh, new ideas for beautiful gifts. So STC proudly presents More Last-Minute Knitted Gifts: an elegant collection of 30 projects organized according to the time it takes to complete them, from less than two hours to more than eight. Among the projects featured are sachets, bracelets, ornaments, mittens, gloves, hats, sweaters, baby blankets, and throws.

Understanding that knitters today love to personalize their projects but also need guidance along the way, Hoverson showcases many of the projects in several colors and yarn weights, and with optional embellishments and creative ideas for gift-wrapping.

Knitted Nursery: Toys, Clothes and Furnishings for a Beautiful Baby's Room [Paperback]

Published 2010


Forget the pastel pinks and baby blues-think bold and bright for your bundle of joy! Strong, contemporary colors create a stimulating environment for young eyes and a modern, uplifting living space for the entire family. Knitted Nursery combines strong primaries, fuchsia pinks, outspoken oranges, and plenty of vibrant hues in a variety of adorable easy-to-follow patterns, including a snuggle blanket, ABC blocks, cot bunting, beach hut bookends, and a washing line wall hanger. All projects use cotton DK yarn which is easy to wash, durable, and child-friendly.

Knit & Wrap: 25 Capelets, Cowls & Collars [Paperback]

Published 2010


Capelets, cowls, and collars-whether in a chunky knit or dainty lace-have been storming the runways for the past few seasons, but knitting books have been slow to pick up the trend. This collection of 25 knitted projects is the first to focus exclusively on beautifying the neck and shoulders. There are romantic capelets that float and flutter about, bold collars, and high-drama cowls that frame the face when worn slipped over the head or that drape elegantly when pushed down. With these projects-done up in a variety of yarns with simple stitches and techniques such as cabling-knitters of all skill levels will soon see how so little fabric can convey so much.

Entree to Entrelac: The Definitive Guide from a Biased Knitter [Paperback]

Published 2010


Revisiting a forgotten technique, this resource guides knitters through the steps, skills, and concepts necessary for mastering etrelac stitching. Though this way of knitting may intimidate beginning crafters, this reference explains the simple ways to build an understanding of the basics, how to master advanced techniques, and even combine entrelac with other knitting methods. Projects include scarves, bags, mittens, slipper socks, hats, and other garments, all worked in a wide range of yarn types.

Sunday, August 15, 2010

Knitting Board Basics: A Beginner's Guide to Using a Knitting Board with Over 30 Easy Projects [Paperback]

Published 2010 in paperback

If you’ve ever wanted to try your hand at board loom knitting, here is all the information you’ll need to get started. Knitting boards differ from looms in that the material created is thicker and double sided. They have become a popular tool of crafters, since they are easy to use and projects knit up quickly. Pat and Kim Novak, entrepreneurs and the designers behind the Authentic Knitting Board company, share their expertise on how to use their popular boards. Core techniques are described in detail and shown in step-by-step, close-up photography, along with easy-to-follow directions. All aspects of using the board are covered---from the basics to more advanced techniques---so whether you’re just learning to cast on, working basic stitches, or looking for solid advice on how to shape and join sleeves or add finishing details such as pom-poms or a drawstring, you’ll find everything you need to get started and more.

Complete directions for thirty-four projects ranging in difficulty, are also included, starting with fast and fun weekend projects, such as a colorful tote or adorable baby booties, and advancing to more complicated projects such as a hooded cable-knit sweater for a child or a striped button-up jacket for yourself.

Mug Hugs (Cozy) [Paperback]

Published 2010 in paperback


Mug hugs are an up-and-coming, simple knittng idea, seen in numerous magazines. Suitable for all abilities; the first project can be completed by a beginner, further skills are built up. This latest title in the popular "Cozy" series is by a UK author. Readers will never suffer cold coffee or tepid tea again! This new title is packed with colourful designs that are easy and fast to knit, and detailed instructions explain everything you need to know. Mug hugs make fabulous gifts and are an ideal way to use up odds and ends of yarn. Best of all, readers will never need to suffer cold coffee or tepid tea again. This title includes 30 fun and fast to knit projects for the reader to make, these are suitable for knitters of all abilities; the first project can be completed by an absolute beginner, further knitting skills are built up and explained in successive projects.

Sunday, August 1, 2010

The Complete Photo Guide to Knitting

Published 2010


This volume is a comprehensive how-to book about all aspects of knitting. This book is a reference for all knitting techniques, beginning with the basics of how to knit. A large section of the book is devoted to showing different stitch patterns, arranged in style categories for easy reference. Special knitting topics will be explored in depth: cables, intarsia, entrelac, Fair Isle knitting, and lace knitting. A section will discuss yarns: fibers, how they are spun, gauge, and how to choose.

Babes in the Wool: How to Knit Beautiful Fashion Dolls

Published 2010


With these easy-to-follow patterns and instructions, knitters of all skill levels will be able to create nine dolls from three basic designs—at a finished size of 20 or 23 inches tall—each with a distinctive style, personality, and matching wardrobes. In addition to featuring designs for 35 pieces of trendy apparel and accessories, the handbook lays out how to construct bodies, faces, and hair and provides templates for eyebrows, eyes, and mouths. While there are specific instructions for dolls ranging from Samantha, the sports enthusiast, and Willow, the sophisticated Celtic beauty, to Rose, the water lover, and Poppy, the party girl, the patterns can easily be adapted to create any type of doll. The use of different colors of yarn, varying yarn types, and an assortment of trims and adornments also enhances the opportunity for creativity. All of the clothing and accessories—bikinis, coats, dresses, handbags, hats, mini skirts, scarves, sweaters, swimsuits, and tops—are fully interchangeable between dolls to create a myriad of looks.

Knitted Aliens by Fiona McDonald

Published 2010


From the far corners of the galaxy, this interplanetary reference delivers 20 brilliant, knitted alien designs. Perfect as gifts for children and adults or simply as conversation pieces, these adorable extraterrestrials are outlined with full knitting patterns and explained through simple and clear instructions. The finished aliens are shown in beautifully styled photographs, accompanied by additional notes. Conveniently sized and perfect for being stowed away in knitting bags, this entertaining handbook provides a variety of unique gifts or stocking fillers, guaranteed to inspire knitters of all levels to develop their own imaginative creations.

Cables Untangled: An Exploration of Cable Knitting

Published 2010

Beautiful, intricate, flowing, mysterious, iconic—cable knit sweaters are all that and more. They are classic, stylish wardrobe staples. For many of us, cables are the main reason we were compelled to learn to knit in the first place. But it’s necessary to be an ultra-advanced knitter to even think about knitting cables, right?

Not really. In Cables Untangled, widely published author, knitwear designer, and teacher Melissa Leapman demystifies this perennially popular technique, guiding the reader through the process step by step. Even if you’ve mastered just a few basic knitting techniques, you can turn out beautiful cables too!

A comprehensive resource book for knitters of all levels, Cables Untangled features over twenty cabled projects, from simple household items to clothing, fashion accessories, and gifts for virtually everyone on your list. Every project is beautifully photographed and includes useful detail shots of every piece of cabled fabric.

In addition to the projects, Cables Untangled includes an invaluable Cable Stitch Dictionary, giving you the tools to be a skilled and creative cable-knitter. Extra resources include:

• A guide to using knitting charts and understanding their symbols
• A comprehensive stitch library of both traditional and unusual rib, panel, and allover cable stitches, all clearly photographed and accompanied by easy-to-use charts
• Tips for designing your own projects

Throughout the book, Leapman relies on the techniques she has developed teaching her popular workshops—making the process easy and fun for anyone.

Here’s the book that will bring your knitting to a whole new level, help you impress family and friends with your beautiful creations, and open up a new world of creative opportunities. Without a doubt, Cables Untangled is an indispensable resource in helping you conquer—and enjoy!—cables. It’s the ultimate guide for beginners and seasoned knitters alike.

The Art of Knitted Lace: With Complete Lace How-to and Dozens of Patterns

Published 2010


The Art of Knitted Lace is the perfect primer for everything you need to know about knitting lace every day—whether you're a beginner, intermediate, or advanced knitter. In her introduction, designer Kristin Omdahl leads you through knitted lace basics, including tool tips, chart reading guidelines, terminology, and, of course, knitting instructions.

With the 35-plus projects that follow, you'll learn to make a wide variety of useful, beautiful garments, designed by our best-loved authors and knitters. Put some romance back into your life with the Casablanca Silk Stockings. In more of a fashion-forward mood? Try the Hamptons Dress or Lacy Cap-Sleeve Bolero. If you need more lace in your everyday life, try your hand at the Raspberry Rhapsody Scarf or the Little Shells Socks. Whatever the season, whatever the reason—make it in lace!

Featuring projects and designs from Lisa Lloyd, Annie Modesitt, Phoenix Bess, Berta Karapetyan, Melissa Matthay, and others, this timeless collection of designs will have you coming back again and again. Isn't everything better with a little touch of lace?

Fabulous Fair Isle Knitting

Published 2010

I guess the publisher didn't have anything to say about this book, but to me it looks interesting.

Sheila

The Knitter's Year: 52 Make-in-a-Week Projects-Quick Gifts and Seasonal Knits

Published 2010


Knitters seeking instant gratification will quickly be able to view the results of their handiwork with these projects from one of the foremost creators of hand knits. Designed to be made in less than a week at a time—or in some cases as little as an afternoon or a couple of evenings—these items are ideal for small amounts of yarn left over from previous projects. The fun-to-make, quick-to-finish, portable designs are organized by the season of the year. From springtime fingerless gloves and a floral corsage to a summery string bag and a lacy scarf, and including a back-to-school iPod cover, a simple beret, and ideas for Christmas gifts and tree decorations, knitters will find ideas to occupy themselves throughout the year.

New England Knits: Timeless Knitwear with a Modern Twist

Published 2010


New England’s seasons call for plenty of warm knitwear, and New England Knits provides an irresistible collection of beautiful designs.
Inspired by autumn and winter in New England (where the savvy knitter is never far from a sweater between September and March), the book is divided into three themes: Walk in the Woods, Around the Town, and Along the coast. Within each section readers will find a variety of flattering, wearable sweaters and accessories (including hats, mittens, scarves, bags, and shawls). Projects by guest designers from Classic Elite, Berroco, and the Fiber Company provide round out the collection.

Gifted: Lovely Little Things to Knit and Crochet

Published 2010


There’s nothing quite like receiving a handmade gift, and your family and friends will love being on the receiving end of these handmade designs. Designer Mags Kandis inspires with this delightful collection of beautiful and colorful little projects for you to knit, crochet, and felt.

From wearable accessories such as hats, mittens, scarves, socks, and wraps to home decor including a tea cozy, pin cushion, needle case, and laptop cover, these 30+ pieces are sweet, lively and add a little joy to every household. Each project features creative embellishments and personal touches, including beading, buttons, needlefelting, appliqué, and embroidery. Mags also shares her recipes for easy food gifts and simple sewing projects such as sewn fabric gift bags and sachets to pair with fiber gifts. Directions for making these little add-ons that make a gift personal and extra-special are scattered throughout the book.

Gifted will inspire you to grab another ball of yarn and invest a little time and love to create something special for someone special.

Our Best Knit Baby Afghans, Book 2, Vol. 2

Published 2010


Beloved for its years of producing quality publications for knitters, Leisure Arts is pleased to present this second edition of the best knit baby afghans from its favorite designers. These 33 classic afghans are sure to be adored by babies and moms alike.

Traditional patterns, including ripples, chevrons, diagonal elements, and lacy looks that knitters have loved for generations, fill this charming book. The designs are made using a variety of yarns, from cotton to acrylic blends.

These beautiful and fun-to-knit designs come with plenty of close-up photography and step-by-step instructions.

Knitting on the Edge: Ribs*Ruffles*Lace*Fringes*Flora*Points & Picots - The Essential Collection of 350 Decorative Borders

Published 2010

As a knitwear designer, Nicky Epstein has always been fascinated with edgings and borders and the beautiful enhancement they lend each knitted piece. The first book of its kind, Knitting On the Edge is a comprehensive and indispensable reference guide to 350 types of decorative borders. The book also features instructions and various techniques showing how to create and incorporate these embellishments into your knitted pieces most effectively. You'll find everything from ribs to ruffles, fringes to lace, flora to fauna, points to picot, along with an original garment design in every chapter. No matter what your skill level, this book is sure to encourage you to take your knitting to creative new heights.

The Ohio Knitting Mills Knitting Book: 26 Patterns Celebrating Four Decades of American Sweater Style

Published 2010


Vintage-inspired projects culled from the archives of the legendary knitwear maker...

Paris, Milan, London … Cleveland? Yes, it's true. For decades, this Midwestern city of grit and steel remained at the forefront of American fashion. Cleveland was home to such garment makers as the Ohio Knitting Mills, which created knitwear designs for department stores from Sears to Saks as well as for hundreds of labels, from Van Heusen to Pendleton.

Author Steven Tatar discovered a treasure trove of mint-condition knitwear and patterns for men and women when he acquired the mill's archive in 2005. Now, working with the original patterns, from the 1940s through the 1970s, he has painstakingly adapted 26 colorful knitwear projects for the home knitter.

The majority of the patterns are for classic mid-twentieth-century women's sweats, from 1956's Abstract Expressionist to 1976's Puppy Love. But there's much more in The Ohio Knitting Mills Knitting Book: men's sweaters like 1954's Father Knows Best, as well as dresses, shoulder bags, ponchos, and scarf sets. Clear directions, supplemented by schematic charts and color guides, make all of the patterns easy to follow, for everyone from beginners to more advanced knitters. The patterns are featured in their original colors (teal and tangerine, ocher and avocado) alongside newer palettes geared to contemporary tastes.

As you create your own versions of such mid-century standbys as New American Gentleman, Rebel Rouser, Wavy Gravy, and Beatnik Babe, there's a lot more to enjoy. No run-of-the-mill knitting guide, this fun-to-peruse book includes vintage photographs; fashion lore, including a visual tour of original labels from national brands, regional department stores, and small-town shops; and interviews with Ohio Knitting Mills employees. All told, this book highlights the ingenuity and excitement of an important American fashion era.

From argyle to zigzag, The Ohio Knitting Mills Knitting Book brings it all back.

Knit Socks: 17 Classic Patterns for Cozy Feet

Published 2010


Knitters love to make socks. Socks are practical and pretty, cozy and colorful. Sock projects are easily carried in a knitting bag, and the patterns are complex enough to be interesting but small enough to be quickly finished. Plus, socks are always fun to wear and great to give as gifts.

Now Knit Socks!, the little die-cut hardcover that sold more than 65,000 copies, is available in a paperback edition that includes two all-new sock patterns. But that’s not all. Sock knitters will find much more in this revision to feed their sock addictions, such as helpful new advice on choosing sock yarns what feels the best, what holds its shape, what really lasts.

And what is a knitter to do if a pattern looks interesting, but she wants to substitute a lighter yarn for the chunky, warm wool specified? A new chart provides alternative yarn weights and the corresponding number of stitches needed for each of the patterns and sizes. Knitters might also want to experiment with two circular needles. Or four double points. There’s advice here for adapting any pattern to any type of needle.

With all the variations and possibilities, Knit Socks! goes far beyond its 17 patterns. Creative knitters will find an endless array of exciting options for keeping feet comfortable, warm, and beautiful