Loop-D-Loop: More than 40 Novel Designs for Knitters by Teva Durham, Adrian Buckmaster (Photographer), Adrian Buckmaster (Photographer)

Published 2005

Teva Durham began knitting as a hobby. It wasn't long, though, before she became mesmerized by the craft. Now, as an extraordinarily innovative designer, Durham is at the forefront of the widely heralded new era of knitting. In Loop-d-Loop, she presents more than 40 fresh, modern designs for adults, children, and the home, a mix of simple projects with high-fashion impact sure to inspire beginners and more complex projects for those who want to test and expand their virtuosity.

Focusing on a wide range of clever technical applications, the patterns include a spiral scarf, a cardigan with a "dreamcatcher" web carved out of the back, a buckled tartan kilt, and a slipcover that transforms a folding chair into a throne. With more than 70 lush color photos and a thought-provoking text that brings together eclectic references to philosophy, art, and popular culture, the book creates a contemplative, enchanted realm that resonates with beauty and meaning. For knitters who enter the Loop-d-Loop world, the way they knit-and think about knitting-will never be the same.

Last-Minute Knitted Gifts by Joelle Hoverson

Published 2004

Today's knitters are chic, smart-and busy. Although they love to knit and enjoy making gifts for family and friends, they're constantly faced with the challenge of finding enough time to actually finish what they've started. Last-Minute Knitted Gifts solves this problem. Joelle Hoverson, owner of Purl, the hip knitting supply store in downtown Manhattan, has designed more than 30 fun, fresh, beautiful patterns, most of which can be made in less than ten hours-some in as little as two!Known for her keen sense of color, Hoverson includes instructions for classic gifts like baby booties and bonnets, sweaters, and scarves, plus imaginative options like a cashmere tea cozy, a felted yoga mat bag, floor cushions, and a poncho-surely something for everyone on the gift list. And to make each present extra-special, Hoverson offers easy tips on how to incorporate knitting and other yarn embellishments into the gift wrap.