Reviews (2)

Love these books
I bought The Sock Calendar because it was so handsome and then decided to learn to knit the socks as well.The patterns are very easy to follow and I can't keep up with friends' requests for hand knitted socks.The Sock Journal is even better as the author included beaded knitting and more optional variations in the patterns.And a very useful writeup for yarn substitutions.

Beautiful knitting patterns & writer's journal
I love these patterns for beautiful and unusual hand-knitted socks. I'm a new knitter and haven't yet made socks but read so much about the designers earlier book The Sock Calendar.Then saw this new one and had to get it.
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Subjects:  1. Crafts & Hobbies    2. Hobbies/Crafts    3. Needlework - Knitting   

Reviews (10)

A great book, almost foolproof, and really fun, with gorgeous result
I have not knit for 25 years, and certainly never did anything like arans in my whole life, but have been able to make the most fantastic pullovers and cardigans for my boyfriend as a result, ones he not only wears, but proudly brags about (and so he should, the Debbie Bliss Cashmerino I use does NOT come cheap!!)At the same time, though, if you are going to take the trouble to do these lovely designs, go for the best yet most practical yarn you can afford. The patterns like the one on the front of the book knit up really well and swiftly if you use your markers and good wool, and don't go for anything too fussy that a guy will balk at-the texture and pattern really does all the work for you to make it gorgeous.I have made sweaters in black, navy, mid blue, charcoal gray, regular gray, and the traditional Irish oatmeal since I bought the book last year.The cardigans and pullovers also are very similar in patterns, strategy, like the diamonds, so once you get the pattern into your head, don't stop, go for another sweater.
men in knits: sweaters to knit that he will wear
Wonderful book, much better that I expected.I plan to make most of the sweaters and not all for him.I like them for me too.

A bit of everything.
I was so excited to get this book, as I love the sweaters featured in Interweave Knits.Every sweater in the book is beautiful, and I would be proud to finish them all as gifts for the wonderful men in my life.
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Subjects:  1. Crafts & Hobbies    2. Crafts / Hobbies    3. General    4. Hobbies/Crafts    5. Knitting    6. Men's clothing    7. Needlework - Knitting    8. Patterns    9. Sweaters    10. Crafts & Hobbies / Knitting   

Features

• Illustrated

Reviews (26)

Great Overall for Beginners
I have been knitting for the past five years and found this book to be a wonderful resource for beginners patterns and reference for basic knitting.The sketches of finishing stitches really helped me perfect my finishing, which I had been having trouble perfecting with other knitting books.The patterns are beautiful and modern, although if you are not using Debbie Bliss yarns make sure to use comparable yarns as far as the ply is concerned.The only reason that I wouldn't give the book a 5 is that there are several mistakes in some patterns.Some more recently printed copies have these corrected, but after receiving your copy I would reccomend double checking the print against the corrections noted on Debbie Bliss' website.Aside from that this is a wonderful book and I highly reccomend to beginning knitters.

What a surprise!
I bought this book sight unseen as a "twofer."To my surprise it is THE best book full of practical, simple patterns for babies from newborn (a hard size to find) through 24 months.I highly recommend it for your knitting library.

Terrific designs for beginners
I hadn't knitted in over 20 years and now that I'm expecting, I saw a Debbie Bliss pattern in the UK parenting magazine "Junior" and thought the sweater was so cute that I'd give it a try. I bought some Rowan yarn from a local shop and started knitting. (You can use other yarns, but you need to make a tension square as she instructs you to in the beginning.) The sweater turned out so cute that I bought this book, in spite of the warnings that her patterns are hard to read, and I have already made the hat and booties and have ordered some of her yarn for the blanket and another sweater.
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Subjects:  1. Clothing    2. Crafts & Hobbies    3. Crafts / Hobbies    4. Hobbies/Crafts    5. Infants    6. Infants' clothing    7. Knitting    8. Needlework - General    9. Needlework - Knitting    10. Patterns    11. CHILDREN'S CLOTHING    12. Crafts & Hobbies / Fashion    13. INFANTS_CLOTHING   

Subjects:  1. Alpaca (Textile)    2. Crafts & Hobbies    3. Crafts / Hobbies    4. Fashion    5. Hobbies/Crafts    6. Knitting    7. Needlework - Knitting    8. Peru    9. Crafts & Hobbies / Knitting   

Reviews (5)

A great book!
I rented this book from the library, and just came out to Amazon to buy it so I can have it forever.It's the only book that ACTUALLY showed me how to purl in a way that made sense!Cute patterns, great instructions, and small size make this a must-have for the novice knitter in your life!
Alright and nothing beyond that.
The diagrams are well done and there is an excellent explanation of blocking. My biggest issue with this book is that it claims to be aimed at beginners but the patterns are not written as simply as they could be; in one pattern it says to decrease your 60 stitches three times. Shouldn't that be something like - k10, k2tog, k20, k2tog, k20, k2tog, k10? One of the skills of knitting that most people need to be guided through is the math.

What a great little book!
This book has so much information packed into its convenient compact size, I couldn't believe it. It has information and diagrams straight from the "Bible" (Vogue Knitting). Excellent reference for beginners and intermediates. It has all the basics and some pretty cute projects too - use cheaper yarn though. Easy to carry in your purse or knitting bag. Would highly recommend. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Crafts & Hobbies    2. Crafts / Hobbies    3. Hobbies/Crafts    4. Knitting    5. Needlework - Knitting    6. Patterns    7. Crafts & Hobbies / Knitting    8. STUDY NOTES - SparkCharts   

Editorial Review

Join the sock knitting revolution!Many knitters today, too pressed for time to knit large garments, are turning to knitting socks--thanks in part to this lively book with its easy-to-read directions for socks from many European traditions.An hour with this book will have most knitters hunting up theirneedles to begin a pair of Scottish kilt hose or colorful Estonian socks. Includes precise techniques for various heel and toe shapings, along with a wealth of information on the history of sock knitting.A wonderful book for your collection or as a gift for the knitter in yourlife. ... Read more

Reviews (23)

Great Resource!
This book showcases the history and evolution of knitting socks as well as patterns inspired by actual historical socks and patterns.Very informative book and easy to read.I got a little bored with all of the history presented, but all in all, it is a great book even for someone who doesn't knit, but is a history buff.

a great book
I read a review on this book when i was going to buy it, mostly good, but one said something about it not being folk socks or something. I didn't personally find that to be true. I love this book! The sock patterns are neat and exactly what she says they will be. It would be silly to knit a sock that goes up to your knew, people do no wear them this way now.
more colorwork than textured, but that's okay.

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Subjects:  1. Crafts & Hobbies    2. Crafts / Hobbies    3. Europe    4. History    5. Hobbies/Crafts    6. Knitting    7. Needlework - Knitting    8. Patterns    9. Socks   

Reviews (3)

May offer a simple formula for success, but its polished results look quite advanced and professional.
NO-PATTERN KNITS: SIMPLE MODULAR TECHNIQUES FOR MAKING WONDERFUL GARMENTS AND ACCESSORIES may offer a simple formula for success, but its polished results look quite advanced and professional. As the knitter moves away from using patterns and turns to geometric shapes instead, the no-pattern method evolves some lovely complex pieces produced using surprisingly few easy stitches. Add full color step-by-step photos and you have a winner.
Disappointing
If you are familiar with modular knitting, this book offers nothing new.The patterns didn't appeal to me at all;there was no snap to the designs.If you aren't familiar with modular knitting, there are better books from which to learn.

Highly recommended for beginners wanting to try Modular!
I've been scoping out modular technique knitting books for awhile and finally decided on one to try: No-Pattern Knits by Pat Ashforth & Steve Plummer. As a beginning knitter, I am EXTREMELY pleased with the detailed instructions on the different ways to create large knitted items from smaller knitted shapes. The book has many great varied projects to try, but it's especially the step-by-step instructions on how to choose, measure, knit and assemble the modular shapes that make this book a worthwhile investment and genuine inspiration, especially for a beginner. The only minor complaint I have is that all the instructions are given for garter stitch only -- but I think, with practice, the principles can be applied to other simple stitches to accomplish the same effects, which I am very much looking forward to trying. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Crafts & Hobbies    2. Crafts / Hobbies    3. Hobbies/Crafts    4. Knitting    5. Needlework - Knitting    6. Crafts & Hobbies / Knitting   

Reviews (3)

This book will inspire you to use your stash
I loved this book. If you have been knitting for awhile, you will have accumulated lots of odd balls and bits of pieces of yarn. This is the book to help inspire you how to use them. She also shows how each sweater uses the color wheel in the design, and some wonderful tips for knitters.

Patterns are difficult
This is not like the "Knit Stitch" or "Purl Stitch" books of Melville's, which I love.I found no patterns that I cared to knit, and few that I felt I would even want to attempt.It's promoted as having patterns that get rid of your stash, but most patterns do this by weaving in small amounts of various colors.You will still need to have large quantities of a basic color for many of these patterns.I will be getting rid of my book, unfortunately.Check this out a library first to see if these patterns are what you like.

An Outstanding Knitting Book
Sally Melville is a knitting genious.Her books are innovatinve and brilliant.You will not be disapointed. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Crafts & Hobbies    2. Crafts / Hobbies    3. General    4. Hobbies/Crafts    5. Needlework - Knitting    6. Crafts & Hobbies / Knitting    7. Hobbies, Quizzes & Games    8. Knitting   

Reviews (7)

Mary Thomas's Knitting Book
A must have knitting book.Mary Thomas, Barbara G. Walker, Elizabeth Zimmermann's and Barbara Abbey's books are all must have books for any serious knitter.You can't go wrong purchasing any of their books.Don't pass up this little gem of knowledge.

Although an old book still very useful
I was surprised to find in this book many of the things that appear in newer how-to knitting books eg the spiral sock that is on page 229, 230. And this not the only material that you will see that's in other books. In this book the material is in a rather condensed form. In the newer books it appears with color photographs and modernized. But still I find this a good book and especially at this price you can see where it all begun.

The original knitting book/history
All knitters must have this book in their library.A wonderful informative book about knitting.Love this book! ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Crafts & Hobbies    2. Crafts / Hobbies    3. Hobbies/Crafts    4. Knitting    5. Needlework - Knitting    6. Crafts & Hobbies / Needlework   

Reviews (13)

An excellent concept
I think this book is for intermediate-advanced knitters, as you are still essentially making up your own pattern and need to use some judgement/experience in the process.
A Neat Concept for a Book
This book has a really neat concept. It's a nominaly 128 pages of patterns. But what that doesn't say is that the patterns are broken down into parts. The top two thirds or so of the page is a picture and instructions for a basic bodice design. The bottom third is split separately so that it can be set to multiple sleeves, pockets, necks or whatever that fit with the bodice shown on the top of the page.
Terrific addition to my library.
I have spent part of my day playing with the mix and match possibilities of this book.I now have 5 sweaters I "have" to create yesterday.The only slight drawback - and then only if you have already bought yarn of a different gauge - is that all the sweaters in the book are in one gauge (22sts x 30rows = 4inches).Other than that, this is a terrific addition to anyone's knitting library and I know I'll be "playing" with it for a long time to come.
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Subjects:  1. Crafts & Hobbies    2. Crafts / Hobbies    3. Fashion    4. Hobbies/Crafts    5. Knitting    6. Needlework - Knitting   

Reviews (3)

A real heartwarmer
My MIL gave this to me as a gift, and it's fantastic! While in some ways it's advertising for Macomber's novels, the theme gives it a true "Knit Along" feel. Patterns are written in plain English, with a wide variety of skill levels; a section in the back offers basic techniques, reference charts, and illustrations for those who need a little help. The print and illustrations are large, and there are big, beautiful photographs and bold color sprinkled throughout.
A Good Yarn
I read the book and I just love the companion pattern book that goes a long with it.

A real keeper
I really am enjoying this book.There is a WIDE variety of patterns to please most anyone.I also like the fact that the patterns are specific in naming the yarn usedwhich is a big help.Directionsare very well done. All in all a great knitting book. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Crafts & Hobbies    2. Crafts / Hobbies    3. Hobbies/Crafts    4. Needlework - Knitting   

Reviews (9)

Great knitting
Excellent types of products easy to follow directions made one in a matter of hours

Fun, Easy, Low-Stress, High-Fashion Projects
Some days I'm in the mood to knit "for the fun of it" instead of for the challenge.This book is full of projects that are easy, fun and yet still fulfilling.
Knit Ponchos, Wraps & Scarves
As an experienced "beginner" this book is full of delightful patterns. There are certainly advanced patterns also. The color of the photographed work is exceptional. Love the close-ups. Our knitting/crocheting club refer to the patterns by color.Many great scarf patterns for gift giving.Quick, inexpensive, using only 1 or 2 skeins of yarn, and best of all, perfectly beautiful finished product. This book would be one for anyone who enjoys a fun new twist on scarves, wraps or ponchos. Check finished length on the scarves.I have found a few to be too short...I just add to the middle rows of the pattern when working in horizontal or cast on more stitches when working in vertical. (allow accordingly when purchasing yarn) ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Crafts & Hobbies    2. Crafts / Hobbies    3. Fashion    4. Hobbies/Crafts    5. Needlework - Knitting    6. Knitting   

Reviews (5)

Need more basic detailed instructions
Since I'm a beginner, this didn't have enough detailed information to start a project.The illustrations are beautiful though.When I get a little bit more basic knitting, I'm sure this book will come in handy.

Both delighted and disappointed
When I got this book and paged through it, I was delighted with the baby blankets and I've decided to knit several of them. I was also excited because I love the "Yarn Shop" series.Debbie Macomber captures the spirit of a Local Yarn Shop beautifully.
Knit Along with Debbie Macomber
I love her knitting novels.This book with the patterns from her first knitting book is super.Some of the patterns are a little challenging for a new knitter, but there are a few that are reasonably easy.The book is in an attractive format with very nice full color pictures of the projects.There are quite a few patterns included along with some knitting instructions.This is really worth the money. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Crafts & Hobbies    2. Crafts / Hobbies    3. Hobbies/Crafts    4. Needlework - Knitting   

Reviews (3)

Beautiful Knitting of DOOOOOM!
Ok, so this is a beautiful book, and though it is not out of print, it can be very hard to get hold of. The designs are mostly traditional Norwegian fair isle... But sooooo complex. We're talking mostly size 1 needles here, people, and STEEKING. (Knitters in the know will shudder now, novices get a chill of doom).
The aristocrat of knitting books
The designs in this English language book establish a class of its own and are way beyond everything else you have seen so far. Never talk about knitting again, how profane! This is the essence of beauty, presented in an immaculate way so stunning that you will refuse to leave the website www.wolleunddesign.de where you can see the different designs in detail. And this is no advertising talk, I just couldn't make myself leave my office yesterday when I discovered this aristocrat of knitting books on the net. All I wanted was a different style, a bit more creativity, away from the granny with the knitting needles. And now I have discovered this classic of noble design and I won't get these stunning pictures out of my mind any time soon! I will just have to get this book and revive the dream with my own hands. This is the art of knitting!

stunning designs for the advanced knitter
This collection is breathtaking and proves there is much more to Norwegian knitwear than the famous house of Dale. The patterns are definitely not for the beginner, and the book does not include any instructions on technique, but intermediate to advanced knitters who want to stretch out will find loads of inspiration. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Hobbies/Crafts    2. Knitting    3. Needlework - Knitting    4. Crafts & Hobbies   

Reviews (3)

Hannah Broitman - Avid Knitter
The baby patterns in this book were good.In fact, the reason for buying the book was because of the baby patterns.However, the patterns for the adults were not exciting.

Practiced beginner projects that make you look experienced
I haven't knitted for 15 years (which basically makes me a beginner again) and wanted to pick it back up now that I'm home with our new baby. Because I didn't want to spend months just knitting scarves but knowing I wasn't ready to attempt complicated designs, I tried this book. I practiced some stiches on scrap yarn, then started with one of the infant sweaters. It was fairly easy as long as I took my time at some of the shaping areas. The outcome was wonderful even though I used less-expensive yarn (Debbie Bliss yarns are beautiful but expensive) that had the same gauge. All of the designs are charming - most are for infants and toddlers with a few for adult women. The patterns are easy to read and I especially like that she includes finished measurements so that I could knit in a few extra rows for my daughter who is a bit taller than the standard measurements. So if you are a beginning knitter who is now comfortable with common stitches you can knit these designs and end up with more than just another scarf in your closet.

Another Winner!!!
I LOVE this book. I must admit that I do own all that Debbie Bliss has published-- but this is really a great book. I am already making the Fair Isle Dress for my daughter-- and I LOVE the mohair pillows and throw. Also some adorable layette items,Read more

Subjects:  1. Crafts & Hobbies    2. Crafts / Hobbies    3. Fashion    4. Hobbies/Crafts    5. Knitting    6. Needlework - Knitting    7. Patterns    8. Crafts & Hobbies / Knitting   

Features

• Illustrated

Reviews (13)

Nice Assortment of Stitches
A nice assortment of knitting stitches.Fun to look through, nicely presented.

Super Book - quick reference
This gathering of stich patterns is - above all- a good bargain.The patterns are diverse and clearly written.I probably have most of these patterns already in my full collection of knitting books - But it's great to have them in just one little book.Perfect for knitting on the go.The pictures are great. I especially like the fact that the patterns are grouped together... easy to find what you want.There were a couple of stich abbreviations that I am not familiar with, but the book explained them. I wish that someone would write a pattern book that shows both the from side and the back side of the swatch, since in some projects, both sides can be visible.

Not the best stitch guide
I ordered this book, and while it's an OK reference, I'm not sure I'll be buying other books in the series.The patterns are grouped clearly and logically, and the pictures are nice and clear, but, to me, the patterns seem very boring.Out of the over 400 stitches, only a few caught my eye.I was looking for a lace pattern for a scarf, and really didn't see anything I liked.
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Subjects:  1. Crafts & Hobbies    2. Crafts / Hobbies    3. Hobbies/Crafts    4. Knitting    5. Needlework - Knitting    6. Crafts & Hobbies / Knitting    7. Crafts    8. Needlecrafts   

Reviews (7)

INFORMATIVE
I AM JUST LEARNING TO CREATE SOCKS AND WAS LOOKING FOR A BOOK THAT IS DETAILED AND EASY TO UNDERSTAND.EXCEPTIONAL DIRECTIONS AND PATTERNS.

Socks
Having taught myself to crochet I spent two months experimenting with making socks and landed up with a method that results in no seams or bumps and is reasonably soft. This book might have helped a little with the process but it is one of those books that lays out a pattern and off you go. Fancy patterns for sure and nice for the distaff side. I was hoping for something very plain with more attention given to custom fit and comfort. I stuck the book on the shelf perhaps I might give it a hook sometime in the future.

if you love crochet _and_socks
You will love this book. THe instructions are clear and precise, the patterns are fun to look at (socks with toes!) and easy to do. I have made several pairs of these socks as gifts and they have always been well received. Hopefully, I'll get a chance to keep a pair I crochet for myself;)
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Subjects:  1. Crafts & Hobbies    2. Crafts / Hobbies    3. Crocheting    4. Hobbies/Crafts    5. Needlework - Crocheting    6. Patterns    7. Socks    8. Knitting   

Reviews (6)

Beautiful sweaters for advanced knitters
This is a beautiful book, however, it's mainly for advanced knitters.Most of the patterns have complicated colorwork requiring many, many colors (which is exactly why they're so beautiful).Only a few are textured, very very few are simple.Also, mostly they call for yarns that I don't believe Rowan makes any more. If you're comfortable with substitution, that's fine, but I wonder how difficult it would be with a pattern involving 25 colors.Also, almost all the patterns call for wool yarn and are cold-weather sweaters. i.e. almost no cotton or lighter sweaters. Many of the women's patterns are flowery and girly (which I consider a drawback as it's not my taste).I liked the men's sweaters better.Also don't get it if you're looking for children's patterns (there were only 2 or 3, mostly for girls).But I'm glad I got the book, as there are several sweaters that are simply gorgeous, and perhaps one day I'll be brave enough to attempt one. Although I got the book... at a [local] store- if I'd paid full price I might have been disappointed (I consider myself an intermediate knitter right now and haven't really done much color knitting yet.)

Nice Sweaters
Interesting book, and if you are not familiar with Rowan, a good addition to your knitting library. Beautiful Designs from Rowan
This is a lovely book unless, like me, you have many of the recent magazines.Rowan has rekindled my interest in knitting, and this book will have the same effect on you.Remember however, ifyou have several of themore recent Rowan magazines, there is nothing new here for you. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Crafts & Hobbies    2. Crafts / Hobbies    3. Hobbies/Crafts    4. Knitting    5. Needlework - Knitting    6. Patterns    7. Rowan Yarns   

Subjects:  1. Crafts & Hobbies    2. Crafts / Hobbies    3. Fashion    4. Hobbies/Crafts    5. Needlework - Crocheting    6. Needlework - Knitting    7. BG-COOKBKS - BG-CKBKS OVER $10    8. Crafts & Hobbies / Knitting   

Reviews (8)

Knitting Inspiration
What a wonderful book. Ms. Lydon wove memoir and craft into a fascinating and inspirational read.
knitting heaven and earthby susan gordon lydon
each page has a memorable sentence.one does not have to knit to love this book.
Unexpected
This book disarms with its honesty--not just about knitting, but life.I was so drawn in (no pun intended) that the author's trials were devastating. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. 1943-    2. Crafts & Hobbies    3. Crafts / Hobbies    4. Hobbies/Crafts    5. Knitting    6. Lydon, Susan Gordon,    7. Needlework - Knitting    8. Philosophy    9. Crafts & Hobbies / Knitting