A stitch dictionary of inventive, original cable patterns, but so much more. As Franklin Habit put it in his review, this book is “a technical guide to cable design in the far friendlier guise of a book of patterns.”
Knitter's Bookshelf
These books have taught us a lot.
When we grow up, we want to be Elizabeth Zimmermann. This book, which looks like it was written in 1912, has inspired devoted knitters who are endlessly knitting the project of the month. While you’re at it, pick up all the EZ you can find: Knitting Around, Elizabeth Zimmermann’s Knitting Workshop, and The Opinionated Knitter.
There cannot be too much written about finishing techniques. OK, maybe there can, but the cheerful tone and lovely design of this book makes it all look like such tidy fun that you’ll decide to stick a zipper on everything you knit.
A godsend. These two volumes will get the most math-averse English major through the basics of sweater design. If you can circle a number, you can create your own pattern.
A godsend. These two volumes will get the most math-averse English major through the basics of sweater design. If you can circle a number, you can create your own pattern.
In one slim volume, a world of how-to (and why-to) knowledge from the reigning monarch of knitting technique. Keep it handy—the WiFi goes down sometimes, you know.
Ah! A manifesto! Such a distinctive voice here, and so much to chew on. Zilboorg exhorts us to free ourselves from written patterns and “regain our illiteracy.” We like the way she admits to sloth and self-indulgence right there in the acknowledgments. We’re still faking industry and generosity.
This is the book that will liberate you from patterns. Over thirty years old, and timeless.
The book that first opened our eyes to the rich world of knitting, spinning, dyeing, and fiber farming in America. A lot has changed since then, making this stunningly beautiful snapshot all the more precious.
The thoughtful, no-nonsense advice in Maggie Righetti’s books is the next best thing to sitting at the feet of a vastly experienced knitter. She shares the tricks of the trade, in plain English indeed.
A stunner. Fifteen projects, each one lovely, surprising. But that’s the least of it. This is a window into the mind of a designer operating at the highest level of conceptual sophistication. Bristol Ivy is an original, designing far, far outside the box. Review here.
Her 1971 book is as fresh as new paint. We still have a quibble with the title—the only tears we’ve ever wept while knitting have been those of abject joy at the realization that, for a short while, we are freed from daily life.