Friday 29 November 2013

Book Review Sock Knitting Master Class


Photo From Amazon




With patterns divided into two sections by top-down and toe-up construction, Sock Knitting Master Class explores techniques, such as cables, twisted stitches, lace, stranded colorwork, entrelac, shadow knitting, and intarsia worked in the round. You'll discover inventive ways to start and end socks, shape heels and toes, and knit soles. With Sock Knitting Master Class, you?ll be knitting like the pros in no time! 

Sock Knitting Master Class is an all-star assembly of the most inventive and exciting designers working with socks today, including Cookie A, Kathryn Alexander, Nancy Bush, Cat Bordhi, Priscilla Gibson-Roberts, Anne Hanson, Melissa Morgan-Oakes, Meg Swanson, Anna Zilboorg, and many more! As a bonus, you will also learn how each yarn contributes to the overall design from Clara Parkes. From best-selling author, Ann Budd, Sock Knitting Master Class offers a one of a kind opportunity for knitters to learn from the best and brightest in the knitting world, while sporting the latest and greatest in sock fashions. 

On a bonus enclosed DVD, Ann showcases all you need to know to knit fun, inventive socks, including a few special tricks and tips from this master sock knitter. You’ll find the DVD a great companion to learning both top-down and toe-up techniques.
Finalist in the About.com Reader's Choice Awards for Best Knitting Book of 2011. "Budd's latest book is a trove of expertise, with patterns from 15 of the craftiest sockistas around, no surnames necessary...Every project adheres to the holy trinity of custom sock knitting--fit, comfort, aesthetics. And if you can't get enough of this collected wisdom in words alone, a 95-minute sock tutorial by Budd is included on an accompanying DVD." - "Cheryl Krementz, Yarn Market News" "Ann Budd is at it again. She's pulled together another great collection of patterns, this time from master sock designers. There are 17 sock designs, and there isn't one I wouldn't love to wear." - "Cindy Koepke, Knitcircus" "It seems like just about all the big names in knitting -- particularly sock knitting -- are featured in Ann Budd's excellent new book "Sock Knitting Master Class."..In addition to the fantastic patterns, which offer a wide variety of options for both toe-up and top-down knitters (and even one sock that goes both directions!), an introductory section covers just about all you'd ever need to know about some of the design choices that go into making a sock." - "About.com Guide to Knitting" "If the designers aren't enough to draw you in, there's much more in here for sock novices and sock aficionado alike. With topics like sock design, toe up and top down construction, and the best bind offs for toe-up socks, this book will take you from zero to sock in no time." - "KnitPurl yarn shop (Portland, OR)" "This book is a really valuable collection of patterns and techniques that any sock knitter will use again and again." - "Jenny, KnitPicks.com" "I'm really glad to have this book because it has so many patterns, from lace to cable to colorwork, and the socks are all beautiful. Also, the techniques have plenty of charts, diagrams and photographs to make learning easy." - "Pamela MacKenzie, MyCentralJersey.com" "The facts alone will mak An excellent and comprehensive book on knitting socks. It's exhaustive. The answers to any questions you may have had about knitting and designing socks is in here. Ann has written an excellent introduction and challenging intermediate book for those looking to expand on their skills. There's a free DVD included with Ann Budd professionally demonstrating the different techniques of sock knitting and design. She explains the different knitting needles you can use and the differences between toe up and toe down construction. Also the 'frightening' kitchener stitch is demonstrated by Ann really slowly and clearly. She's an excellent teacher. She's funny, easy to understand and you feel confident when listening to her advice. There are both toe down and toe up socks in here. There are 10 top down designs to follow and seven toe up socks in the book. The first 47 pages are devoted to explaining yarn and gauge, heels and toes. There are sock patterns in here from Cookie A, Nancy Bush, Cat Bordhi, Ann Budd herself and Melissa Morgan-Oakes amongst others. The standard of the book is extremely high and it's all been excellently produced, including the DVD. The photography and colours of the sock designs are beautiful. You feel really inspired as you flick through. This book explores such techniques as cables, twisted stitches, lace, stranded colorwork, entrelac, shadow knitting, and intarsia worked in the round. It's such a lovely guide to intermediate sock knitting.-sewingisforgirls.blogspot.com

About the Author
Ann Budd is the best-selling author of The Knitter’s Handy Book of Patterns and The Knitter’s Handy Book of Sweater Patterns. She is also the author of Getting Started Knitting Socks, Interweave Presents Knitted Gifts, Knitting Green, and Simple Style, and co author of Bag Style, Colour Style, Lace Style, and Wrap Style. She is a book editor and the former senior editor of Interweave Knits. She lives in Boulder, Colorado.
                                                                                                                                           

Chapter One
Fit 
Comfort
Yarn and Gauge
Needle Choice
Heels
Toes
Aesthetics

Chapter Two
Projects
Top Down Construction
Top Down Cast On
Top Down Bind Offs
Asymmetrical Cables 
French Market Socks
Almondine 
Happy Go Lucky Boot Socks
Thigh High Stripes
Rose Ribs
Twisted Stitch Stockings
Knot Socks
Mock Cable and Lace
Slip n Slide
Toe Up Construction
Toe Up Cast Ons
Toe Up Bind Offs
Up down Entrelac
Bulgarian Blooms
Stealth Argyles
Terpander
Half Stranded Socks
Pussy Willow Stockings
Toe Up Travellers
                                                                                                                                               

Sock Knitting Master Class is available from Amazon

Disclosure: I buy knitting books from on-line shops with my own money, I am not being paid for writing this review. All my reviews are honest and on things that I genuinely love and would recommend to my readers. 



Tuesday 26 November 2013

Book Review Designing Knitwear




Photo From Amazon


This work aims to offer the reader instructions on how to create their own knitted designs. It provides information on finding inspiration, working with colour, learning to see, using dressmaker details and finishing techniques. The reader is encouraged to develop their own original patterns.
Readers of Vogue Knitting and Threads are familiar with Newton's beautifully crafted knitwear, as are readers of mass circulation periodicals like Family Circle and Woman's Day. Here Newton systematizes her approach to designing handknit garments and, in the process, shares information she searched for in vain when she was a fledgling designer. Using 16 of her original designs as teaching tools, Newton takes the reader from idea to finished garment, emphasizing creative swatching and a lighthearted "what-if?" approach as the creative process begins, followed by solid documentation and detailed garment schematics as the design takes its final form. This is not a how-to-knit book. The author assumes her reader has the knitting skills required to put to good use in-depth information on design sources, yarn characteristics, working with silhouette and fit, and designing with stitch patterns, color, and graphics. Highly recommended.
- Janice Zlendich, California State Univ. Lib., Fullerton
Copyright 1992 Reed Business Information, Inc. --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

About the Author
Deborah Newton is one of the top knitwear designers in the United States. She sold her first sweater to McCall's magazine in 1982 and has since designed and produced hundreds of knitted garments for magazines and books. She also designs knitted fabrics for the Seventh Avenue garment trade.
                                                                                                                                              

Contents
Chapter One
Learning to See

Chapter Two
Designing with Yarn

Chapter Three
Fit and Silhouette

Chapter Four
Designing with Knit and Purl

Chapter Five
Colour and Graphics

Chapter Six
The Comfortable Classics

Chapter Seven
Themes and Samplers

Chapter Eight
Dressmakers Details and Finishing Techniques
Addendum: Pushing the Limits
                                                                                                                                            

Designing Knitwear is available from Amazon

Disclosure: I buy knitting books from on-line shops with my own money, I am not being paid for writing this review. All my reviews are honest and on things that I genuinely love and would recommend to my readers. 



Monday 25 November 2013

Book Review Knitwear Design Workshop




Photo from Amazon



Discover how to create your own dramatic and unique knitwear with Shirley Paden's new book! Expert knitwear designer Shirley Paden approaches Knitwear Design Workshop as she does her design classes—teaching through example. With her new book, you'll learn all the tricks of the trade for designing with step-by-step instructions for using measurements, calculations, and schematics. Knitwear Design Workshop is your backstage pass to the world of design. Inside you'll discover: How to design double-tapered, single-tapered, and reverse-tapered garments with sleeves or sleeves caps that fit Designing with armholes, necklines, neckband's, and collars and labels A clearer understanding of commercial pattern instructions Ways to improve your attention to detail with a meaningful test swatch Stronger knowledge of proper body or garment measurements How to handle design challenges in a variety of garments such as cardigans, skirts, and dresses And much more! Perfectly packaged in an easy-to-use hardbound, hidden spiral format, Knitwear Design Workshop is chock full of in-depth information, including measuring a gauge, working silhouette and fit, designing with stitch patterns, selecting colour, and yarn characteristics. Also included in this helpful resource are four breathtaking projects—great for both design inspiration and creation! 400 pages.

Praise for the hardcover edition: "Knitters usually begin with simpler items like scarves and move on to more complicated projects like sweaters. But once sweaters are mastered, many experienced knitters want to know how to design their own knitwear--and have it fit. There are a number of books that explain the mechanics and the math of designing sweaters. This one, too, examines commercial patterns, the intricacies and importance of measurement, and the result that comes with various yarns. But this book is particularly comprehensive in that it explains how to adapt different stitches other than the reliable stockinette to make sweaters that are unique to the knitter. This volume--spiral-bound inside sturdy covers--is not for the faint-of-heart knitter, but those longing to take their knitting to the next level will be enthralled. Four attractive projects are included as examples of the many techniques author Paden explains." - Ilene Cooper, "Booklist""First Reaction: Blown Away. If you're interested in sweater design, and want to understand everything, you need to look at this book. It's amazing. I have other design books in my library...but this one stands on its own." - KnittingScholar.com"This is a comprehensive guide to getting an idea out of your head and into a knitting pattern. It's also a fantastic resource to use to alter an existing pattern to your specifications." - Knitty.com"Add this to your essentials shelf, next to Barbara Walker and Nancy Wiseman. And make something fabulous." - "Twist Collective" blog"The book's layout is very clean, clear and attractive, with high quality photos and diagrams, to keep the reader inspired and motivated. Paden writes succinctly and well, packing in a wealth of information." - "Crochet Insider""Captivating designs with flattering silhouettes." - "Quick & Easy Crochet""If you have even the slightest interest in design or want your garments to fit better, "Knitwear Design Workshop" belongs on yo

About the Author
Once an executive in the corporate world, Shirley Paden left it all behind 15 years ago to pursue a career in knitwear design. Today Shirley is the owner and founder of Shirley Paden Custom Knits in New York City. She teaches master knitting classes for the fashion industry and conducts seminars on lace, entrelac, cables, color knitting, and finishing techniques. Her designs have been published in Interweave Knits, Vogue Knitting, and Knitter’s magazines and she was the subject of a profile in 2004. She has been a guest on public television’s Knitting Daily TV (2010). Knitwear Design Workshop is her first, much-awaited book. She lives in New York City.
                                                                                                                                                           

Contents

Introduction

Chapter One
Researching and Refining an Idea
Layout of the Design Idea
Taking Measurements
Understanding Ease
Selecting a Body Shape and Drawing a Schematic
Classic Silhouette Worksheet
Dropped Shoulder Worksheet
Double Taper Worksheet
Single Taper Worksheet
Reverse Taper Worksheet

Chapter Two
Selecting the Fabric
Choosing the Yarn
Fibre Content
Yarn Construction
Yarn Weight Classification
Choosing a Pattern Stitch
Understanding Pattern Stitch Instructions
Charts
Combining Pattern Stitches
The Gauge Swatch
Measuring Gauge
Translating Measurements to Numbers of  Stitches and Rows

Chapter Three
Classic Silhouette Pullover
Classic Silhouette
Body
Sleeves
Classic Body Worksheet
Sleeve Worksheet

Chapter Four
Dropped Shoulder
Modified Dropped Shoulder
Double Tapered Body
Single Tapered Body
Reverse Tapered Body

Chapter Five
Cardigans
Centre Closure
Overlapping Front Bands
Independent Overlapping Bands
Overlapping Fronts
Rounded Front Edges
One Piece Construction

Chapter Six
Straight Skirt
Side Seam Shaping
Stacked Circular Decreases
A Line Skirt
Dresses

Chapter Seven
Alternative Armhole Shaping
Classic Raglan
Circular Yoke
Classic Saddle Shoulder

Chapter Eight
Sleeves and Cuffs
Straight Sleeve
Lantern Sleeve
Gathered Top Sleeve
Short Sleeves
Cuffs
Classic Fold Back Cuff
Bell Cuff
Placket Cuff

Chapter Nine 
Necklines
Classic Boat neck
Square Neckline
Round Neckline
V Neckline

 Chapter Ten
Neckband's, Collars and Lapels
Neckband's
Straight Collar
Split Turtle-neck Collar
Mock turtle-neck Collar
Cowl Collar
Peter Pan Collar
Large Round Yoke Collar
Large Round Collar
Horizontal Shawl Collar
Classic Vertical Shawl Collar
Wide Vertical Shawl Collar
Shawl Collar Worked Horizontally
Horizontal Shawl Collar With Buttons
Lapels
Classic Lapel
Notched Lapel

Chapter Eleven
Finishing Techniques
Blocking
Shoulder Seams
Three Needle Bind Off
Horizontal to Horizontal Seam
Necklines
Pick up and Knit
Pick Up and Purl
Whip-stitch Seam
Armhole Seams
Backstitch Seam
Horizontal to Vertical Seam
Sleeve and Side Seams
Vertical to Vertical Seam
Vertical Back Stitch Seam
Buttonholes
Horizontal One Row Buttonhole
Zippers
Projects
Twist \Flowers Pullover
Cable Coat with Cape Collar
Double Leaves and Twists Duster
Pea Coat
                                                                                                                                            

Knitwear Design Workshop is available from Amazon

Disclosure: I buy knitting books from on-line shops with my own money, I am not being paid for writing this review. All my reviews are honest and on things that I genuinely love and would recommend to my readers. 



Thursday 21 November 2013

Book Review Knitting Without Tears



Photo from Amazon

Do you love to knit -- and hate to purl? Have you ever started a sweater without enough yarn from the same dye lot to finish it? When you cast on, do you end up with a tail of yarn that's maddeningly too long or too short? Elizabeth Zimmermann comes to the rescue with clever solutions to frustrating problems and step-by-step instructions for brilliant, timeless designs. 
In "Knitting Without Tears, " you'll find elegant designs for:
Color-pattern Norwegian ski sweaters
Seamless patterned-yoke sweaters
Hooded garter-stitch jackets for babies
Watch caps, socks, slippers, mittens, and more! 
This classic and influential book is poised to inspire a whole new generation of knitters who have yet to discover the joys and comforts of knitting. As the lady herself once put it, "properly practiced, knitting soothes the troubled spirit, and it doesn't hurt the untroubled spirit either."
                                                                                                                                       
Chapter One
The Opinionated Knitter

Chapter Two
Gauge: Required Reading

Chapter Three
Ski Sweater in Colour Patterns

Chapter Four
Seamless Sweaters

Chapter Five
Other Knitted Garments

Chapter Six
The Washing of Sweaters
                                                                                                                                             

Knitting Without Tears is available from Amazon


Disclosure: I buy sewing books from on-line shops with my own money, I am not being paid for writing this review. All my reviews are honest and on things that I genuinely love and would recommend to my readers. 




Tuesday 19 November 2013

Book Review How To Adapt, and Design Knitting Patterns

Photo from Amazon

In this companion volume to How to Use, Adapt and Design Sewing Patterns the author explains in easily accessible terms how to decode knitting patterns and how to modify that pattern so that it can be shaped to fit a wide range of individuals. With sections on making a pattern from an existing garment, how to write up a pattern, how to change necklines, body shapes and sleeves as well as adding texture and embellishment to garments, the knitter is taught how to develop their own patterns, modernise and generally increase their knowledge of knitting styles. Filled with step-by-step sequences, a list of useful websites and suppliers, and a gallery which will introduce the reader to some of the leading knitwear designers, this is a practical book with diagrams and photographs. Even the relatively new knitter will be able to follow the instructions and develop her skill in knitting. A great companion to our Knitty Gritty and Stichopedia books.
                                                                                                                                                           

Contents
Introduction
About This Book

Part One
Using Knitting Patterns
All About Knitting Patterns
Sources of Patterns
Anatomy of Knitting Patterns
Common Abbreviations
The importance of Tension
 Making and Measuring a Tension Swatch
How Needle Size and Yarn Effect Tension
Your Measurements
Collecting Measurements

Part Two
Designing Patterns From Scratch
Making a Patterns From an Existing Pattern
Measuring an Existing Garment
Converting The Measurements
Making a Paper Pattern
Calculating Shaping
Making and Fitting a Toile
How to Alter a Toile
Altering the Patterns
Rewriting the Instructions
Constructing the Garment
Blocking and Seaming

Part Three
How To Adapt The Pattern
Changing Necklines
Design Options: Necklines
Neckline: Adapting the Toile
Necklines: Adapting the Paper Pattern
Necklines: Adapting the Written Pattern
Design Details: Necklines
Shaping Shoulders
Changing Sleeves
Design Option: Sleeves
Sleeves: Adapting the Toile
Sleeves: Adapting the Paper Pattern
Sleeves: Adapting the Written Pattern
Design Details: Sleeves
Changing Body Shapes
Design Options: Body Shapes
Body Shape: Adapting the Toile
Body Shape: Adapting the Written Pattern
Design Details: Body Shapes
Using Stitches
New Stitch Tension Swatches
All over Texture
Shaping with Stitches

Part Four
Embellishments
Embroidery
Appliqué
Trims and Fastenings
Pom-poms, Tassels and Fringes
Adding Beads and Sequins to Knitting

Part Five
Basic Knitting Know How
Choosing Yarn
Materials and Equipment
Essential Techniques
                                                                                                                                                

How to Adapt and Design Knitting Patterns is available from Amazon

Disclosure: I buy sewing books from on-line shops with my own money, I am not being paid for writing this review. All my reviews are honest and on things that I genuinely love and would recommend to my readers. 




Monday 18 November 2013

Book Review Crocheted Wild Animals

Photo From Amazon

This gorgeous collection of wild animal to crochet will enchant children and adults alike. Inside this fun, colourful book there are 14 feral friends from all over the world to choose from, each with a very distinct personality. The projects vary in level of complexity and there is a comprehensive and straightforward techniques section to help you learn the necessary skills. Along the way you will also learn some interesting and surprising facts about these fascinating creatures.


Paperback: 160 pages
Publisher: GMC (7 Sept 2013)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1861089260
ISBN-13: 978-1861089267
Price: £11.99
                                                                                                                                                               



Contents
Introduction

The Animals
Camel
Elephant
Polar Bear
Deer
Fox
Monkey
Snake
Rabbit
Lion
Giraffe
Owl
Frog
Flamingo
Chameleon

Techniques
Getting Started
Crochet Stitches
Finishing Touches
Abbreviations
Suppliers
About the Author


                                                                                                                                                       

Crocheted Wild Animals is available from Amazon

The lovely people at GMC Group sent me this book to review.

The projects in Crocheted Wild Animals looks  fun to make, the patterns for the animals are detailed and come with toy-making tips and techniques. I think this book will give you a fun learning experience. There are 15 projects to complete and the completed  projects would make a lovely gifts.



Friday 15 November 2013

Book Review The Joy of Sox

Photo From Amazon



Sox rocks! Here comes the hottest collection of knitted socks yet, filled with 30-plus designs and 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 tantalising cables, intricate lacework and intriguing colour 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.



Paperback: 176 pages

Publisher: Lark; Reprint edition (7 May 2013)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1454707798
ISBN-13: 978-1454707790
Price: £9.92
                                                                                                                                                               



Contents
Introduction
The Knitty Gritty

The Socks
A Roll in the Hay
Two to Tango
Take out for Two
Rock - A Bye
Movie Socks
Boyfriend Socks
Breakfast in Bed
Quickie Socks
Toe to Toe
Stitch Patterns and Hand Dyed Yarn Shannon Okey
Make Up Socks
Royal Flush
Hot Waves
From Russia With Love
My First Time Laurie Perry
Big Tease
Puppy Love
Girls Best Friend Thigh Highs
Afternoon Delight
Fleur Play
Chick Flick
Last of the Red Hot Lovers
Blue Crush 
Lotus
Warm Up Socks
Main Squeeze
My Love Affair With Socks Kathryn Alexander
Predictable Patterns Laura Bryant
Spring Fling
Peekaboo
Snow Bunny
Sole Mates
Golden Dahlia
Sweet Nothings
Cyber Flirt
Zhen Zen
About the Designers
                                                                                                                                                       

The Joy of Sox is available from Amazon

The lovely people at GMC Group sent me this book to review.

I think there are some lovely sock patterns in this book and the instructions along with pictures showing some basic sock knitting techniques for both DPNs and circular needles. There are both toe-up and top-down sock patterns. A good reference for anyone who wants to tackle their first pair of socks.





Thursday 14 November 2013

Book Review The Knitgrrl Guide to Professional Knitwear Design

Photo from Amazon




The Knitgrrl Guide To Professional Knitwear Design is the first-ever book targeted to designers of all experience levels who want to create, communicate and sell their work professionally to magazines, publishers, consumers and other markets. Written by an industry insider, the Guide takes a comprehensive, unflinching look behind the scenes that no knit or crochet designer can afford to be without. Includes 30+ interviews with top designers, editors and professionals who tell it like it is so you can hit the ground running, a guide to responsible social media use, information on distribution, printing, online publishing and much, much more.
                                                                                                                                           

Contents
Introduction

Chapter One
What Does It Mean To Be A Professional

Chapter Two
Social Media
Blogs
Ravelry
Twitter
What Not To Do
Facebook
Social Medial Some Numbers

Chapter Three
TCB, No PB&J Required or The Business Side of Things
From Small Streams Mighty River Flow, Where to Make Money
Teaching
Writing Books and Articles
Providing Professional Services
Test Knitting
Editing
Selling Knitted Related Products

Chapter Four
Send in The Lawyers
Copyright
What To do if Your Copyright is Infringed
Trademarks v Copyright
Contracts

Chapter Five
Writing Patterns
Design Software
Sizing
Getting Help, Test and Sample Knitters
Tech Editing, Layout and more

Chapter Six
Making Sales
Selling Wholesale
New Technological Possibilities for Print
Postage and Shipping
Sales Reps
Doing the Digital Math
Money, Money, Money

Chapter Seven
Proposal and Publishing
Do You Need an Agent?
Photos and Illustrations

Chapter Eight
Advertising

Chapter Nine
Further Education
Knitting Machines

Chapter Ten 
Professional Organisations and Associations

Chapter Eleven
Standing Out

Chapter Twelve
The Interviews
                                                                                                                                          

The Knitgrrl Guide to Professional Knitwear Design is Available from Amazon



Disclosure: I buy sewing books from on-line shops with my own money, I am not being paid for writing this review. All my reviews are honest and on things that I genuinely love and would recommend to my readers. 

Monday 11 November 2013

Book Review 200 Knitting Tips, Techniques and Trade Secrets

Photo from Amazon

The basics of knitting are quick to master, but learning to create a stylish, professional finish usually takes much longer. This book contains over 200 professional fixes, insider tips, and secrets arranged by topic to enable any crafter to achieve a great fit and finish when knitting garments and accessories. You will also learn how to dye yarns easily in an ordinary kitchen to get the colour combinations you want, and how to embellish garments with surface decoration and beads to express your own personality. unlike most other knitting books, 200 KNITTING TIPS, TECHNIQUES & TRADE SECRETS shows you how to adapt and design garments to suit your own size, shape, and preferences, and the book is packed with a wealth of informative and inspirational ideas.


Wach topic, self-contained in a one- or two-page section, is fully explained and illustrated with specially commissioned step-by-step photographs and detailed artwork. For ease of use, every topic is cross-referenced to allow the reader to dip in and out for help and advice. Aimed at all knitters from beginners to the more experienced 200 KNITTING TIPS, TECHNIQUES & TRADE SECRETS contains a wealth of essential technical information and handy tips.

                                                                                                                                                            



Contents
Introduction
About this Book

Chapter One
Equipment and Materials
Knitting Needles
Additional Equipment
Which Yarn?
Buying Yarn

Chapter Two
Patterns and Charts
Following a Knitting Pattern
Measuring your Gauge
Understanding charts and Symbols
Selecting the Right Size

Chapter Three
Design
Choosing Colours
All About Drape
Texture
Flattering Your Body Shape
Adapting Knitting Patterns
Achieving Perfect Fit
Basic Design Principles
Schematics and Graphs
Putting it All Together

Chapter Four
Basic Techniques
Preparing yarn
Casting On
Holding the Yarn and Needles
Working Knit Stitch
Working Purl Stitch
Woking Basic Knit and Purl Stitch Patterns
Binding Off
Fixing
Mistakes
Joining yarns
Striped Patterns
Increasing
Decreasing

Chapter Five
Advanced Techniques
Selvages
Picking Up Stitches
Ribs, Hems and Other Borders
Armholes and Sleeve Shapes
Necklines, Neckband and Collars
Pockets
Making Buttonholes
Beautiful Buttons
Fastenings
Shoulder Pads
Shaping with Vertical Darts
Short Row Shaping
Lace and Openwork Stitches
Cables and Twists
Knots and Bobbles
Loops, Leaves and Bells
Edgings
Chevron Patterns
Patchwork Patterns
Entrelac
Frills and Flutes

Chapter Six
Knitting in The Round
Circular Knitting
Stitch Patterns for Circular Knitting
Circular Knitted Shapes
Mittens and Gloves
Socks

Chapter Seven
Creative Techniques
Hand Dyeing
Felting
Combining Yarns for Texture
Slip Stitch Patterns
Fair Isle Knitting
Intarsia
Counted Stitch Embroidery
Freestyle Embroidery
Knitting with Beads and Sequins
Pompoms, Tassels, Fringes and Cords
Flower Trims
Crochet Designs

Chapter Eight
Assembly
Stitching the Seams
Pressing and Blocking
Aftercare
Glossary
Common Abbreviations and Symbols
Crochet Hooks and Sizes
Index
                                                                                                                                                     

200 Knitting Tips, Techniques and Trade Secrets is available from Amazon



Disclosure: I buy sewing books from on-line shops with my own money, I am not being paid for writing this review. All my reviews are honest and on things that I genuinely love and would recommend to my readers. 

Friday 8 November 2013

Book Review The New Encyclopedia of Knitting Techniques

Photo From Amazon


Whether you're picking up the knitting needles for the first time, or want to learn new techniques to add to your repertoire, this encyclopedia has something for everyone! The New Encyclopedia of Knitting Techniques is a comprehensive guide to basic and advanced knitting techniques, designs, and styles.



Containing more than 200 step-by-step instructions, charts, tips, and examples of completed works, this full-color illustrated guide is perfect for both beginners and seasoned crafters.

                                                                                                                                             



Contents

Introduction


Chapter One
Knitting Skills
Equipment
Yarns
Getting Started
Essential to Know
Useful To Know
Finishing Details
Creating Your Own Designs

Chapter Two
Stitch Collection
Knit and Purl
Rib
Cables
Twists
Lace
Bobble and Leaves
Stranded Colour Knitting
Intarsia Colour Knitting
Key To Patterns
Glossary and Index
                                                                                                                                                       

The New Encyclopedia of Knitting Techniques is available from Amazon


Disclosure: I buy sewing books from on-line shops with my own money, I am not being paid for writing this review. All my reviews are honest and on things that I genuinely love and would recommend to my readers. 

Thursday 7 November 2013

Book Review 200 Knitted Blocks for Blankets, Throws and Afghans

Picture from Amazon


Create gorgeous afghans and more with this amazing choice of 200 knitted block patterns to mix and match. From geometric designs to multi-hued blocks, you'll discover new ways to play with colour, pattern and texture. Choose from easy to advanced knitting patterns, from simple knit and purl designs to more elaborate cable, lace and bobble blocks. Use blocks in one of the suggested layouts, or design your own – all blocks finish to the same size when worked in the same yarn weight. Also learn how to finish your blocks in style with patterns for fringes, ruffles and other decorative edgings. This book has everything you need to create unique afghans, wall hangings and accessories; from knitting techniques and step-by-step instructions for 200 decorative blocks to inspiration and advice for planning your design and creating a finished piece. Each block is labelled with at-a-glance symbols that tell you instantly what techniques are used to create the block and the level of difficulty so both experienced and new knitters can pick and choose blocks according to their confidence. This invaluable knitting block library will be used time and time again from simple baby blankets to stylish throws in your home.
                                                                                                                                   

Chapter One
Mix and Match
Using Colour and Texture
Planning you Designs
Mix and Match Designs
Heart's Delight
Bobble Fantasy
Blue Geometric
Modern Times
Merry Go Round
Edwardian Counterpane
Bright and Bold
Nocturne
Buttoned Cushion
Christmas Cushion
Baby Lace

Chapter Two
Block Directory

Chapter Three
Techniques
Yarn Choices
Abbreviations
How to Start
Working the Basic Stitches
Working Stitch Patterns
Working Increases and Decreases
Techniques for Multicoloured Knitting
Decorative Techniques
Blocking
Knitting and Edging
Care of Afghans
Yarn List
Suppliers
                                                                                                                 

200 Knitted Blocks for Blankets, Throws and Afghans is available from Amazon



Disclosure: I buy sewing books from on-line shops with my own money, I am not being paid for writing this review. All my reviews are honest and on things that I genuinely love and would recommend to my readers. 

Tuesday 5 November 2013

Book Review Cast On, Bind Off




Photo From Amazon



The first complete step-by-step photographic guide and an essential reference for knitters of all styles and techniques, presented in an easy-reference, take-along format. A compilation of all the techniques for beginning and ending knitting projects, it offers a welcome surprise to many knitters who are not aware of the breadth of possibilities. Choosing the right cast on or bind off to fit the chosen yarn and stitch technique will add to the appeal of the finished knitting project.

                                                                                                                                                                                               

Contents
Introduction, Beginnings and Endings
Quick Start Guide

Part One
Cast On's
Basic
Stretchy
Decorative
Circular
Double sided
Multicolour
Provisional
Tubular
Mobius

Part Two
Bind Off's
Basic
Stretchy
Decorative
Sewn
                                                                                                                                  

Cast On, Bind Off is available from Amazon



Disclosure: I buy sewing books from on-line shops with my own money, I am not being paid for writing this review. All my reviews are honest and on things that I genuinely love and would recommend to my readers. 

Monday 4 November 2013

Book Review Stitch 'n Bitch Superstar Knitting Go Beyond the Basics



Photo from Amazon


Knitters: It's time to take it to the next level. And who better than Debbie Stoller to show you how. The expert knitter and gifted, edgy author who introduced knitting to a new generation with her New York Times best seller, Stitch 'N Bitch: The Knitters Handbook, now shows her readers how to do more - lots more. Stitch 'N Bitch Superstar Knitting is the only knitter's handbook to teach the full array of advanced knitting techniques and skills, such as double-knitting, knitting lace, complicated colour work, beading, and more. Writing with the clarity that makes her such an effective teacher, and the attitude that got her dubbed 'knitting superstar', Stoller explains how to 'knit by the numbers', get creative with stripes, embellish with crochet, beading, and I-cords; how to make cable patterns; and how to use colour forms. There's also a whole section on DIY - which gives a tutorial on creating your own knitting patterns.
                                                                                                                  

Part One
Introduction

Chapter One
The Stitches
Rows are Red, Rows are Blue
Colour Knitting Using One Colour at a Time
Making Clean Colour Changes in Ribbing
The Unappreciated Slip Stitch
Colour by Numbers
Slip Stitching in the Round
Two Colour Tubular Knitting
Double Knitting

Chapter Two
Knit if You Will, a Picture
Creating Images with Intarsia
The Rules of the Game
The Right Yarn for the Job
Yarn Lengths in Intarsia
Making a Figure Eight Yarn Bobbin
Adding a New colour Yarn
Linking Your Yarns Together
Tight Knit Edges
Combining Intarsia and Stranded Knitting
Crocheting Vertical Colour Columns
Nip Tuck Finishing
Intarsia in the Round

Chapter Three
Strand and Deliver
Two Colour Knitting Using The Stranded Technique
Finding the Right Yarn Hold
Float Like a Butterfly
Yarn Dominance 
How To Catch Floats, Catching Techniques for Different Hand Holds
Lets Talk About Steeks Baby
Different Steeks for Different Freaks
Picking Up Stitches on Steeked Projects

Chapter Four
Cables and Bits
Adding Texture in Your Knitting with Cables, Twisted Stitches, Bobbles and More
Look Ma No Needle
Cable Guide
Travelling Stitches
2 Stitch Crosses and Twists
Bavarian Twisted Switch
Fake it Till you Make It
How to Fix Miscrossed Cables
The Colour Cable
Adjusting Your Fabric for Cables
Bobble Heads

Chapter Five
Lace
The Final Frontier
Selecting Your Materials
The Lace Knitter's Tool Kit
Yarn Overs and Decreases
Reading Lace Charts
The Hole Story of Creating Lace
Lace Bandages, Preventing and Dealing with Mistakes
Who You Calling a Faggot?
Shaping in Lace Knitting
Cast Ons and Bind Offs for Lace
Blocking Lace
Know Your Nupps

Chapter Six
Knit Bling Bling
Adding a Little Sumpin Sumpin With Beads and Embroidery
Beads on a Wire
Beading Between the Lines
The Bead Goes On
All Over Bead Knitting
By Hook or By Crook
Embroidery on Knitting
Stitching Like a Big Girl

Chapter Seven
Stitch Witchery
A Useful Assortment of Stitches
Start Me Up
Provisional Cast Ons
Tubular Cast Ons
Happy Endings
A Smorgasbord of Increases and Decreases
Kitchener Stitch
Every Which Way
Cords
Buttonhole Surfers
Short Rows

Part Two
How to Create Your Own Patterns

Chapter Eight
DIY Design It Yourself
Stitching, Swatching, Measuring and Drafting
Dream a Little Dream
Sketch and Kvetch
Swatch Watch
Pattern Drafting
Measure Twice, Knit Once
Gauge
Measuring Up
Taking Body Measurements for Pattern Drafting
Knitting by the Numbers

Chapter Nine
Drop It, Like It's Hot
Drafting a Drop Shoulder Sweater
Filling in the Measurements
Filling in the Stitches
All About Ease
Writing Out the Pattern
The Magic Formula
Modified Drop Shoulder

Chapter Ten
From Rags to Riches
Drafting Reglan Sleeve and Circular Yoke Sweaters
Filling in the Measurements
Filling in the Stitches
The Perfect Sleeve Cap Width
Writing Out the Pattern
Reglan in the Round
Circular Yoke Sweater
Placing
designs and Futzing with the Formulas

Chapter Eleven
Bringing Out the Big Guns
The Set In Sleeve Sweater
Filling in the Measurements
Filling in the Stitches
Writing out the Pattern

Chapter Twelve
Details, Details
Necklines, Cardigan Bands and Estimating Yarn Amounts
Ring Around the Collar
Designing a Cardigan
I'm with the Band
How Much Yarn? You Do the Math
One, Two pick up a Stitch
Abbreviations

Part Three

The Patterns
Colour Basics and atitch Witchery
Dress to Impress Baby Dress
Dutch Touch Skirt
Baby Corn Dress
Tulip Top
Rococo Shawl
Tiptoe Socks

Intarsia and Stranded Knitting
Squirrelly Mittens
Hip Hop Blanket
Steeks and Stones Cardigan
The Life aquatic Sweater
Skull Isle Socks
Button it Kid Sweater
Lotus Bag
Sheepy Time Kid's Sweater
Bookish Cardigan
In Bloom Bag

Cables, Bobbles and Travelling Stitches
Sea and Surf Sweater
Colourful Cable Hat
Gretel Tam
Dog O Matic Doggie Sweater
Love Me or Leaf Me Bag
Little Red Riding Hoodie
Lattice Top
Fertility Blanket
saxon the City Stockings
Laced Up Socks

Lace
Frilly Frilly Scarf
No Plastic Please Mest Tote
Crush Shrug
The Empire Strikes Back Dress
Nip Tuck Sweater
English Mesh Lace Sweater
Leafy Lace Cardigan
Sweetheart Sweater
Haiku Sweater
Flirty Knee Highs

Beads and Embroidery
Beatrice Gloves
Coco Cardigan
Sparkle Sweater
Moonshine Wristlets
Tiger Lily Stuffed Animal
                                                                                                                                      
Stitch 'n Bitch Superstar Knitting is available from Amazon




Disclosure: I buy sewing books from on-line shops with my own money, I am not being paid for writing this review. All my reviews are honest and on things that I genuinely love and would recommend to my readers. 

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