 |
| |
These Favourite Knitting Stitches Books Will Help You Easily Create Unique Patterns
Knitting is simple. There really are just two main knitting stitches - Knit and Purl. This can be hard to believe when you page through stitch pattern books like those below - that such intricate designs can come from just two stitches. It's like magic - just follow the instructions row by row and before you know it you've created a work of art. There are a few extra techniques to learn, such as yarn overs, slip stitch, knit two together (or three or four), but most often you can learn these as you go.
So, have at least one good Stitch Pattern Book and jump right in. Pick a pattern you like, try a sample swatch and once you've got the hang of it, try it out in a scarf, a blanket or even a simple sweater pattern.
Here are some favourite books currently on the market:
Books by Barbara G. Walker
The prized knitting books of Barbara Walker, originally published in the 1960's and 1970's, were out of print for some time but are again available. Walker is also the author of such books as The Woman's Encyclopedia of Myths and Secrets, The Skeptical Feminist: Discovering the Virgin, Mother, and Crone, and Amazon: a novel. Knitters are interesting people.
The Harmony Guides from Interweave Press are a series of really practical, illustrated guides to hand knitting and crochet, explaining basic techniques from start to finish.... this series is notable for its clear color illustrations and photos of each stitch pattern included. In addition, Volume 4 (250 Creative Stitches) and Volume 5 (220 Aran Stitches and Patterns) offer both written instructions and charts for stitch patterns. This is an excellent series of books.
I'm less familiar with the books below but they come well recommended.
Don't forget to check the craft section in used book stores or antique stores. Occasionally you will find a good stitch pattern book. This is where I found a copy of a Mon Tricot Knitting Dictionary, a series that is unfortunately out of print. You can often find used copies at Amazon or on eBay.
*****************************
*****************************
Super Stitches Knitting: Knitting Essentials Plus a Dictionary of More Than 300 Stitch Patterns
Karen Hemmingway
365 Knitting Stitches a Year Perpetual Calendar
from Martingale & Co.
The Knitting Stitch Bible
by Parry-Jones, Maria
The Big Book of Knitting Stitch Patterns
from The Sterling Co.
Knitting Stitches: Over 300 Contemporary and Traditional Stitch Patterns by Mary Webb
And finally, The Ultimate Sock Book from Vogue Knitting.
Why a sock book in the knitting stitch section? Because it has an excellent chapter on stitch patterns that can easily be incorporated into sock patterns. So if socks are your thing.....
See More Great Knitting Books
Return to Knitting Stitches Patterns
Go To Blue Castle Fiber Arts Home
|
|
