Free Knitting Patterns

Elizabeth Zimmermann's Knitting Workshop

She is a genius!
I had this on my wish list for a long time before I treated myself to buying it.
So my question to myself is "Why did I wait so long?"

I vaguely remember this series when it was on PBS and I was a young beginning knitter. I remember being in awe of EZ then and I am still in awe. She is amazing. This DVD and it is like having a wise and experienced mom or grandma sitting there with you and showing you how to knit.

This DVD offers solid instruction and education for the beginner all the way up to some advanced techniques. - Sleepless (Anoka, MN)

Release Date: 03/01/2006

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Amazon Price: $42.99 (as of 12/16/2009)
List Price: $48.00

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A Knitting Glossary

Excellent, well organized DVD
This DVD was extremely helpful to me as a self-taught knitter who began with socks several months ago. The comfortable format of a mother and daughter sitting on a sofa discussing knitting and demonstrating various techniques was most useful. It is a joy to watch on so many levels. I love Elizabeth Zimmermann's spirit and her daughter, Meg Swansen's expertise. The well organized index allows easy access to the various techniques for later review. This DVD is jam packed with information as it's very tightly edited and includes a wonderful interview at the end. I HIGHLY recommend this video to new and experienced knitter's alike. I also bought the Knitting Workship DVD, but of the two, the Knitting Glossary is the most helpful. - mmqc

Timeless Tool for Anyone Who Knits.
If you don't have time to take classes, you have it all right here alive and in color with Elizabeth and Meg. You feel as tho' you are right there on their couch learning from two experts. Elizabeth's demeanor and humor are just so endearing. I adore her and Meg's wit. The beauty of the DVD is you have the ability to pause,go back and search through an expansive and thorough index. If you are knitting and come to a road block, you will find your answer on this DVD. I absolutly love this DVD. You will not be disappointed. This is a timeless tool for anyone who knits. - M. Kangas "First Light Knitter" (Ringoes, NJ USA)

Release Date: 03/01/2006

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Amazon Price: $40.00 (as of 12/15/2009)
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The Knitting Answer Book: Solutions to Every Problem You'll Ever Face; Answers to Every Question You'll Ever Ask

by: Margaret Radcliffe

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Amazon Price: $9.72 (as of 12/16/2009)
List Price: $14.95

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The Friday Night Knitting Club (Friday Night Knitting Club Novels)

by: Kate Jacobs

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Amazon Price: $10.08 (as of 12/16/2009)
List Price: $14.00

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Fearless Knitting Workbook: The Step-by-Step Guide to Knitting Confidence

by: Jennifer E. Seiffert

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Amazon Price: $18.18 (as of 12/16/2009)
List Price: $24.95

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Vogue Knitting: The Ultimate Knitting Book

by: Vogue Knitting Magazine Editors

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Amazon Price: $24.53 (as of 12/16/2009)
List Price: $38.95

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Teach Yourself Visually Knitting (Teach Yourself Visually)

by: Sharon Turner

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Amazon Price: $16.49 (as of 12/16/2009)
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Hip Knit Hats: 40 Fabulous Designs

by: Cathy Carron

Every knitter will adore these timeless, fashionable, and extremely wearable hats, all photographed on models in a chic urban setting. Most of the projects involve knitting in the round, so a thorough overview explains the technique, as well as basic hat forms, choosing a yarn, and accessible techniques such as felting. Try a shaped ribbon yarn hat with equally decorative and functional earflaps. A simple brimmed felted wool hat becomes a fashion statement with a brightly colored decorative edging. Whip up a chunky seed stitch cap in just a matter of hours. Even the simplest designs are stylish, using great color combinations and yarns with irresistible textures. And, because the patterns come with both medium and large sizes, you can knit to fit.

Cute, wearable hats--great instructions--an excellent resource!
The knit hats and patterns in this new book really are hip and cool! And that's saying something; most hat patterns I've seen are either dull and uninspiring, or so wildly "out-there" that only a space alien would wear one. Hip Knit Hats manages to avoid either extreme, offering 40 fun patterns for knit hats and caps that are creative, fashionable and flattering.
Excellent tutorials on hat construction and knitting techniques (knitting in the round, casting on with variations, finishing, felting and fulling) lead to unusual embellishment options and then, finally, the hats!
Cute, simple caps are followed by hats with wide upturned brims, caps for guys, a head-hugging cloche, a pillbox hat with darling bobbles, seed-stitch pillboxes, and various berets. I love the "Fabulous Felted" chapter and embroidery techniques offered as well. -- Sharilyn Miller, California, US

Amazon Price: $16.47 (as of 12/16/2009)

Hats: A Knitter's Dozen (A Knitter's Dozen series)

Traditional to whimsical stocking caps and hats with twists and turns, textures, and lots of color work are among the best ideas for hats from Knitter's Magazine featured in this project book. Providing knitters with an opportunity to learn while they create, these 18 hat projects range in complexity to appeal to beginning through advanced skill levels. Knitters are invited to either start out with more ordinary yarns and stitches or to experiment with rich yarns and sophisticated stitches. A variety of embellishments and visually appealing instructions will inspire knitters to create their own custom designs.

excellent hat book...not many "too goofy to wear" styles!
I really like this book in content and presentation. Clear pictures! Best of all...stupid looking, court jester hats are kept to a minimum. Most of the patterns that are listed for children have adult instructions which I always value. I hate it when a lovely hat only has instructions for an 18 inch head.

The patterns cover a variety of yarn weights and techniques. Plenty of lovely sophisticated styles in this book to please almost any hat knitter. -- Quickbeam, Oconomowoc, WI, USA

Amazon Price: (as of 12/16/2009)

Vogue Knitting on the Go! Cables: Mittens, Hats & Scarves

With its elaborately beautiful results and simple technique, cable knitting is irresistible to almost anyone who knits. But knitters also love the practicality of small and easy-to-make cold-weather accessories such as hats, gloves, and mittens. Combine the two and you have the ingredients for perfect knitting projects. And that's exactly what this newest volume in the Vogue® Knitting On the Go! series provides: 21 fabulous designs to work on anytime and anywhere. Knit easy caps, an elaborate buttoned neck warmer, fingerless gloves, self-striping mittens, and many more. The items vary from beginner friendly to challenging for those with a little more experience. Embellished with pompoms, fringe, and adorable earflaps, these stylish pieces are truly one of a kind.

Cables galore!!
I just received this book and am pleased with the patterns I see here. All of them are nice, with only one novelty type hat. That hat could actually be made without the long braids on each side, and then it would be just a nice cabled hat.

Here's a breakdown of what is in the book. There are a total of 21 patterns, but some include more than one thing(like hat and mittens). There are 11 hat patterns, 4 scarf pattern, 2 fingerless mitten patterns, 2 regular mitten patterns, and 1 baby mitten pattern, 2 neckwarmer patterns, 2 hat attached to scarf patterns, and 1 headband pattern. Overall a nice assortment.

There are no patterns rated beginner in this book. There are 5 patterns rated very easy, 8 rated intermediate, and 8 rated experienced. Some of the experienced ones are scarf patterns that have you doing several different cables at a time. Not really hard, you just have to keep track of where you are at.

The patterns here are classic, but not dumpy looking. Here is a list of the patterns included:
Cabled Cap
Double Cable Scarf
Drop Stitch Cable Scarf
Self Striping Gauntlets(on the cover of the book)
Cabled Wristlets and Hat
Cabled Neck Warmer
Bias Scarf
Baby Hat and Mitten Set
Bias Cable Hat
Traveling Cable Mittens
Three Cable Scarf
Traveling Cable Hat
Scarf with Hood
Mitten and Headband Set
Rolled Brim Hat
Cabled Helmet with Scarf
Striped Hat
Pompom Hat
Bomber Hat
Rapunzel Hat(this is the novelty hat)
Neckwarmer and Hat.

Guess it's time to break out the cable needle and get knitting! The Double Cable scarf and Three Cable scarf are beautiful!
-- KnittingMom8

Amazon Price: $9.32 (as of 12/16/2009)

Scrumptious Toppers for Tots & Toddlers: 30 Hats and Caps from Debby Ware

by: Debby Ware

Hats, adorable hats. Knitting maven Debby Ware, creator of the famous DebbyWare knit kits, has drawn on her years of experience to put together 30 pint-sized hat and cap patterns filled with bright and unusual color combinations. Three separate sections -- Homecomings, Hooplas, and Humdingers -- are filled with such delightful designs as the Newborn Beanie, Hobo Hat, Holly Holiday, Peppermint Cap, Feather Fedora, Lemon Drop, Black & Bright Beret, and many more for newborns to children up to 2 years. Not only are these cute and quirky caps fun and easy to knit, they are instant family heirlooms that can be handed down to each new generation.

The author, Debby Ware is the author of Too Cute, (Martingale and Company, 2002) and the coauthor of BabyKnits Hats & Booties (Creative Publishing International, 2006). She is the founder of DebbyWare, which sells baby knit kits -- a pattern plus yarn -- to more than 800 stores and catalogers across the country.

Great Hats! Great Fun!
My sister and I attended one of Debby's workshops and had so much fun we've been haunting her ever since, waiting for this new book. I've already made the "Firecracker Topper" for my overactive nephew, and the "Pretty-in-Pink" hat for my niece. Debby's touches are unique, but once you master them, you can use the same techniques to embellish anything you can dream up. These hats are truly "scrumptious". I plan to start with the "Birthday Cupcake" hat in the beginning of the book and knit my way through all of them... until I run out of babies! -- C. Kolodny

Amazon Price: $13.57 (as of 12/16/2009)

Folk Hats: 32 Knitting Patterns & Tales from Around the World (Folk Knitting series)

by: Vicki Square

With 30 completely original patterns for fun and functional hats, this globe-trotting collection presents clear illustrations and step-by-step instructions for knitters of all skill levels. History and folklore from the hat's country of origin accompany each project. Included are felted cowboy hats, festive hats from Cameroon and Japan, historic derbies from around Europe, a beaded cloche from Afghanistan, warm cossacks from Russia, and darling baby bonnets from Nigeria and China. Each unique topper is an item of style and of substance. The imaginative and versatile designs and range of yarns and techniques put a new spin on the standard hat pattern and reinterpret these folk classics for modern knitters.

What's Under the Hat?
Knitting is a new passion for me. History is an older passion. This book contains both. Knitting patterns include easy and fast to advanced techniques. The blurb about the origins of each hat is the surprise under each hat. The only drawback, perhaps, is the expense of some of the recommended yarns. -- Andrea Hunter, Santa Fe, NM United States

Amazon Price: $14.93 (as of 12/16/2009)

Sweater Surgery: How to Make New Things with Old Sweaters (Domestic Arts for Crafty Girls)

by: Stefanie Girard

Why repurpose your sweaters? Because you can't buy sweater fabric by the yard. Sweaters get damaged or go out of style but we still love the prints, colors, and textures. You don't have time to knit it from scratch. It's ecologically correct. And most of all--it's fun!

Sweater Surgery shows you how to upcycle all your slightly worn, slightly damaged, or plain old out-of-style sweaters into fabulous new items for your wardrobe and your home. Readers learn how to choose, cut, restitch, felt, and embellish old sweater fabric, transforming it into beautiful handbags, mittens, scarves, hats, hoodies, skirts, jewelry, soft toys, pillows, and more!

Complete instructions for 27 projects, plus a huge gallery of exciting ideas for further inspiration.

The Author, Stefanie Girard (Burbank, CA) has a degree in industrial design from Pratt Institute and worked as a set decorator and prop master for 10 years in the entertainment industry. She has produced, written scripts and edited Web content for television shows and has been covering these creative topics for HGTV, DIY Network and Lifetime TV. She has designed and written directions for over 400 craft projects for clients.

If you're a crafter, buy this book now!
Oh, how I wish I had that pile of old sweaters I donated to the thrift shop! If I only had them now, I'd soon have a kick-ass collection of sox, leg-warmers, even cooler new sweaters, hats, bags, baby booties, necklaces, purses, skirts, head-bands, pet bed, laptop cozy and mnore, more, more!

File this book under "Why didn't I think of this stuff first?" -- but go buy it now and make up for lost time! Sweater Surgery: How to Make New Things With Old Sweaters is a gold mine of crafty ideas! -- J. Arena, Williamsburg, VA, USA

Amazon Price: $13.59 (as of 12/16/2009)

Men in Knits: Sweaters to Knit That He Will Wear

by: Tara Jon Manning

This collection of men's sweater projects presents classic designs and trendy fashion-forward pieces, forgoing the stereotypical Mr. Rogers and Bill Cosby variety of sweater. Offering tips for overcoming men's reluctance to wear sweaters, this book provides the tools needed for making the right choices in fit, color, texture, and style to create beautiful, masculine knitted sweaters. Explored are how to understand his personal style and which colors and textures flatter particular physiques so that the sweater will be both enjoyable to knit and a favorite to wear. Patterns for Arans, Argyle, basket case, and cable rib are included for knitting cardigans, pullovers, V-necks, vests, and accessories such as scarves and gloves. Although intended for men, these sweaters have great unisex appeal and were developed for both new and seasoned knitters.

Will men wear these? I think so...
Men are notoriously difficult to knit for--they want neutral or dull colors (hard to see when knitting) or those impossibly colorful Australian sweaters favored by Bill Cosby. What should you make your MAN (or even yourself, if you are a man who knits?) Most of the knitting magazines have few men's patterns per issue, so it's nice to have a collection of things that men probably will like.

Most of the sweaters are texture-stitch style (Aran knitting, cables) but there are a few simple argyle-banded pullovers, a fine gauge vest or two, and a few boys' models. There is a helpful table to match fitting issues (barrel chests, tall torsos, tapered physique, round shoulders) to the corresponding sweater that will suit the figure. That's a worthwhile feature, as you can apply the ideas to other sweaters you might dream up in future.

What you WON'T find here are many colorwork models, nor that shawl-collared jacket so many men like to wear at home and in the yard, nor other popular styles such as Cowichan style thick knits, Icelandic yokes and the most mysterious omission of all--the Mr. Rogers style, complete with zipper. Perhaps the designer Tara Jon Manning doesn't like zippers in knits (I don't either, for that matter; the zipper tape is not as elastic as the knit fabric and that is a nuisance when you sew it in) --but you can hardly offer to knit a sweater for a man and not get a request for a cardigan like the late Fred Rogers pulled on when he stepped into his foyer.

If you like texture knitting, and if you want to knit for men and boys, this book is a good choice, especially for the useful fitting guide. If you want colorwork or zippers, you will need another book instead. -- Joanna Daneman, Middletown, DE USA

Amazon Price: $19.11 (as of 12/16/2009)

The Knitter's Handy Book of Sweater Patterns: Basic Designs in Multiple Sizes & Gauges

by: Ann Budd

"...this choose-your-own-adventure book... provides a healthy compromise between knitting others' patterns and styling your own from scratch." -- Vogue Knitting

"Easy-to-read instructions%u2026great for anyone who wants to design their own garment%u2026a very valuable resource." -- Knitting News

"The possibilities are endless!" -- Better Homes and Gardens Knit It!

"This is a fine version of the master pattern genre... will give you many years of good knitting." -- Windy City Knitting Guild

"This, my friends, is the Better Homes and Gardens of sweater pattern books . . . It's a book worth reading and absorbing." -- Knitter's Review

Chockful of really useful information
I know many (I for one) are happy this highly anticipated book came out earlier than the stated release date and it is even more packed with so much good information than Ann Budd's first book of ...Handy Book of Knitting Patterns. Some initial good points about the book: many sweater "palettes" are presented, there's many side points within each section - like how to convert a yarn gauge of yours that isn't included in the book to one that is compatible to a gauge, there's eighteen sweaters knitted up in different yarns that are shown in clear photos, different styles of necks, sleeves, bodies are set out and explained, and! so much more! And for those familiar with the first book - there is an even nicer (deeper) inside pocket provided. The same spiral format is kept which will help in your designing/decision making of your sweater(s). Don't let the higher price point scare you away - the information in this great book more than makes up for the cost. -- sfknitter, San Francisco, CA, U.S.A.

Amazon Price: $17.79 (as of 12/16/2009)

Sweater Design in Plain English

by: Maggie Righetti

If you're tired of making sweaters with sleeves that are the wrong length, necklines that droop, armholes that are too tight, and an overall look that's not quite right, then let Seater Design in Plain English come to your rescue. In clear, straightforward terms, Maggie Righettie shares her knitting know-how and good fashion sense so that, no matter what your knitting level, you can overcome the fear of failure, avoid costly mistakes, adapt already-existing patterns, and plan and create sweaters that really fit and look terrific-sweaters that will be worn for many years to come. Topics and techniques include:

-Understanding the nature of yarn and pattern stitches
-Choosing the most flattering color and design for the wearer
-Taking accurate body measurements
-Estimating the amount of yarn you'll need
-How to tell whether or not a sweater will look good on you-before you start to knit
-How to alter printed patterns so they really fit
-How to understand the mathematics of gauge and pattern design
-Plus start-to-finish instructions for thirteen classic sweaters

Each technique is illustrated with clear diagrams, sketches, or photographs. Complete with conversion charts and a personal-measurements record-keeping section, Sweater Design in Plain English takes the guesswork out of every creative knitting effort.

The author, Maggie Righetti, a certified knitting and crochet instructor, is the author of Knitting in Plain English, Crocheting in Plain English, and Universal Yarn Finder. She lives in Atlanta, Georgia, where she runs her own knitting design company.

Excellent book to feed the creative spirit!
I am an intermediate knitter who has been stifling my own creativity by knitting from commercial patterns for years. I have no knitters in my family, and taught myself to knit from books and help from art teachers in junior high school. Maggie Righetti is the knitting grandmother I never had, and always wanted. She has a wonderful sense of humor and a no-nonsense attitude of playfulness that cuts through the mystery and fear associated with design. Her first chapters are about the psychological barriers that keep knitters from taking control of their own craft, and this good-natured lecture is truly inspiring. Then she talks about the design issues and challenges associated with designing for REAL bodies of all types. Her attitude toward the fact that many people are bigger than the commercial designers assume, and that proportions can differ from that standard, but can still be beautiful, is refreshing. It's even--dare I say it--feminist! Righetti tells us to choose yarn that inspires us, then knit swatches with a variety of stitches and patterns. The swatch is not just to check gauge, but to let the yarn "tell you what it wants to be." Some may find this silly, but it has helped me to let my creativity go, and I am now working with a beautiful, inspiring purple mohair that told me it wanted to be a short-sleeved evening sweater with simple lines. The yarn didn't want anything fancy to upstage it (as if that was possible). My only complaint with the book is that the practice sweaters given are not the most stylish, and as many design techniques are taught in the context of these sweaters, it can be difficult to find a technique you want to use if you don't go through each of the design projects in detail. I highly recommend this book, and plan to check out her other books. -- a customer

Amazon Price: $14.93 (as of 12/16/2009)

Sweater 101: How to Plan Sweaters That Fit... and Organize Your Knitting Life At the Same Time

by: Cheryl Brunette

Originally published in 1991, this new edition features the following quote on the back cover: "I had no idea your wonderful book was coming back...hooray. Don't think I've given a workshop in the last 15 years without mentioning you and it." Who said that? Meg Swansen. That's a pretty hefty endorsement! This is a clean, functional, step-by-step guide to building your own sweater patterns. You don't get out of measuring, but you do get someone guiding you clearly along the path to sweater success time after time. Brunette's approach requires us to take careful notes on design sheets included in the book. She provides standardized schematics for the three basic sweater shapes -- drop-shoulder, set-in sleeve and raglan in chest sizes 30-50" for women, other handy resource sheets, and discusses current trends in sweater design [did you know that raglan sleeves used to come to a sharp point at the top?]. My favorite tip in the book is the proper use of a calculator's memory function. Smart woman, that Cheryl Brunette. -- Knitty: Fall 2008, Amy R. Singer

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A great book, not only for the beginner but also the person who has been knitting for years. One important thing to me is learning to organize my projects and to keep detailed notes... this book will do that and more. The sweater schematics are exceptionally good. I have the original edition, it is worn beyond repair. Thank you Cheryl for all the time and talent you put into this book. -- Beverly Kaufman, Sedro-Woolley,WA, U.S.A.

Fascinating, entertaining, and instructive, Sweater 101 is full of details, examples, and shortcuts explaining how to get from an idea to a finished sweater. Cheryl Brunette writes in a style that is easy to follow; instructions are laced with bits of humor and personal experience. From determining gauge, to figuring increases and decreases, everything is presented in a step-by-step fashion. It doesn't matter how many sweaters you have knitted--this book will help with the next one!!!!! -- J. Lord "knit smith" , Washington State, USA

Amazon Price: (as of 12/16/2009)

The Twisted Sisters Sock Workbook: Dyeing, Painting, Spinning, Designing, Knitting

by: Lynne Vogel

The Twisted Sisters are a group of women in Oregon who delight in making one-of-a-kind hand-spun, dyed, and knitted socks from scratch. This book about how they do it is chock-full of color photos of gorgeous socks you'll never see for sale at your local Wal-Mart. The author, an accomplished hand spinner and knitter, assumes that the reader already knows how to knit and spin and wants to go to the next level of sock-making creativity by dyeing or hand painting hand-spun yarn to make signature socks. Included are guidelines for dyeing yarn or roving using hot and cold pour dyeing, spot dyeing, and dyeing with Kool-Aid, as well as suggestions for spinning the yarn to maximize the effects of dyeing and, finally, methods of designing and knitting perfectly-fitting socks. For its selected audience, this is the best nontechnical resource to take you through the processes of dyeing, spinning, and designing socks.

Inspirationally Twisted!
As a spinner and knitter by profession, I love books that inspire and create ideas--not just give me a batch of patterns that I usually don't follow anyway. I've read the book from cover to cover 3 times and tested almost all the patterns. I discovered or re-discovered many ideas. I like the way the book is laid out. It's a great size for working with or to put in a bag. I love the beautiful photography--tons of photos! TSSW has excellent gauge charts, clear and easy to understand instruction diagrams, many variations on knitting, dyeing and yarn design. IMHO, it is an excellent resource book for those who use handspun yarns, want to use lots of color in their work, or yarns from their stash. This book is definitely a must have for those who don't color between the lines..... and those who want to be inspired/encouraged to go beyond the published pattern and yarns that everyone else has! -- Sheri Smith (Spin2Knit in E. Tennessee) USA

Amazon Price: $12.89 (as of 12/15/2009)

Knitting Socks with Handpainted Yarn

by: Carol Sulcoski

Providing technical guidance as well as fun, creative patterns, this resource tackles handpainted yarns, identifying the many challenges-and many opportunities-they provide for knitting socks. Focusing on how to make the most of these much-loved yarns, it explains how to design projects with hand-dyed material versus other types of yarns, how to avoid the pitfalls of pooling and splotching, and how to combine multicolored hand paints with other types of yarns. Fresh, modern sock patterns from a variety of contributors illustrate their successful techniques, showing that with creativity and a little technical know-how, knitters can fully take advantage of these beautiful, yet sometimes tricky, yarns.

The Author, Carol Sulcoski is the owner of Black Bunny Fibers, an independent company that creates hand-dyed yarns and spinning fiber. Her knitting designs have been published in Big Girl Knits, KnitNet.com, Knitty.com, MagKnits.com, and MenKnit.com, and she is the coauthor of Knit So Fine. She lives in Villanova, Pennsylvania.

Satisfying!

Socksters, this is a no-brainer. You NEED this book. Even if you haven't (yet) drunk the sock-knitting Kool-Aid, this book is worth your while for how it breaks down the world of handpainted yarns. She classifies them two ways--by contrast colors and by dye-run length--and explains how they work with different patterns and how to grapple with that bugbear of handpainted yarns--pooling.

The bad news is: part of the answer is, ya gotta swatch. Errrrgh. I know. But her advice is sound, and she offers a number of ways to cope, everything from directional knitting to knitting with two skeins to certain stitch patterns.

Each of the 21 patterns in this book is rated according to which brightness of yarn you have to work with, everything from almost solid (those luscious kettle dyes), to moderate to brightly painted (which she at one point jokingly calls 'clown barf'). That means once you identify what type of yarn you've yanked out of your stash, you can find a pattern to work.

The patterns are from well known designers (Ann Budd, Charlene Schurch, etc) and look challenging enough to be interesting, but not too intimidating. (Maybe don't knit while watching your favorite TV show, but when it's not your own personal Must See TV, you can knit away with confidence). The patterns feature everything from directional knitting (but, strangely, no mitered squares) to color stranding to a teeny bit of intarsia to lace. It presumes basic knitting knowledge and a good bit of the basics of sock construction as well, but I wouldn't put it above an 'intermediate' knitter. Beginners might hold off to get a sock or two under their needles first, but none of these patterns have complicated massive charts or anything else too intimdating.

If, like me, you've bought a bucket of handpaints but dread knitting them up into a pattern where either the stitch pattern gets lost in the color, the colors muddy up, or you're plagued with pooling, this book is just what you need. Do NOT have any socks on your needles when this book arrives. -- Seven Kitties, Blue Point, NY USA

Amazon Price: $13.57 (as of 12/15/2009)

Knit Socks!

by: Betsy McCarthy

Anyone who's ever picked up a set of needles thinks about knitting a pair of socks.

Continuing Storey's popular die-cut Knit! series, Knit Socks! offers 15 one-of-a-kind patterns that keep feet toasty warm while making a cool fashion statement. Betsy McCarthy--a nationally renowned knitting teacher and designer of simple, innovative knitwear patterns--recommends which types of yarn to use (wool and wool blends hold the sock's shape best), and discusses the types of needles suitable for knitters of varying levels of skill (wooden or bamboo for beginners who knit more slowly, metal for speedy, experienced knitters). And McCarthy's tips on working "in the round" using five needles will benefit even people who have knitted for years.

The friendly, step-by-step instructions and color-coded charts make Knit Socks! perfect for knitters of all skill levels.

The Author, Betsy McCarthy teaches knitting workshops for beginning and experienced knitters. She is famous for her simple, innovative knitwear patterns and for her teaching method, which gives students the technical expertise and confidence to create their own knitwear designs. Her sock and hat patterns have been published by Fiber Trends. McCarthy lives in Seattle, Washington.

Good for a sock newbie
This books assumes you have a basic knowledge of knitting and very little knowledge of knitting socks. That's what I wanted in a first sock book. There are explanations of each sock part, how to use double-pointed needles, and various other tidbits that might be useful to a first-time sock knitter. The instructions are set up step by step and are easy to follow.

The only problem I had with my first pair of socks was the short row heel, but I re-read the author's section entitled "You Can Do It!" and realized her explanation of short rowing did make sense. You really do follow the pattern and it comes out looking like a heel.

The patterns are lovely and fairly simple. There are patterns that would be a pleasant challenge to a sock newbie. If you're looking for more difficult patterns, this probably isn't the book for you. But, if you are new to knitting socks, this is a wonderful book. -- Alianne, Manassas, VA, USA

Amazon Price: $11.53 (as of 12/15/2009)

Favorite Socks: 25 Timeless Designs from Interweave

Portable, quick to knit, and universally wearable, new knitters have recently been discovering socks in droves, while Interweave Knits magazine has been providing original, beautiful patterns for a decade. Featuring 25 beautiful and timeless sock patterns for every occasion in a range of techniques, traditions, and designs, many of these patterns have become unavailable as original issues of Interweave Knits went out of print, but are available once again in this inspired collection. Highlights include a tutorial for knitting socks on two circular needles, instructions for making resoleable socks, and six completely new designs for those avid knitters who may have every issue of Interweave Knits magazine.

Favorite socks from Interweave Press--something for everyone
These 25 sock patterns are taken from various issues of Interweave Press magazines such as "Interweave Knits" and "Piecework" and "Spin-Off." These magazines are foremost in the world of fibers and once in a while, one of the magazines issues features a sock project. I predict that, just like the earlier book of Spin-Off contest socks which became a best-seller in the knitting world, this book of favorite socks will take the knitting world by storm. It is definitely time for a new, pretty sock book!

There are literally socks here for everyone; classic patterns in Austrian style running stitches (rather like aran patterns), a shadow knit sock with X's and O's (which is what I plan to knit first.) There are lace socks, patterned Latvian socks, padded footlets, longer cabled stockings and an anatomically comfortable fitted sock by knitting guru Priscilla Gibson-Roberts. The socks I loved especially? A wave-stitch sock in sport weight wool, the Latvian sock with the Baltic motifs for Laima and Mara, and the undulating Rib sock, a new take on a simple pattern of broken rib in shadowy varigated yarn.

The book is spiral bound with a cover done in perfect binding (meaning, the book lies flat when you are working a pattern, but the spiral is covered by glazed paper covered boards.) Normally, a reviewer ignores the cover, right? But here, the binding is just perfect for a take-along book.

I would say most of the socks in this book require more than a beginner's skill. There is a nice glossary in the back and a set of drawings of basic stitches and techniques, but I believe if you have never knitted a sock before on double pointed needles, you will need to get a lesson or video in that technique before you essay to start on any of these pretty patterns. But they are well within the grasp of anyone who has knit at least one or two socks before.

I like this book a lot--I plan to make most of the socks in the book and it looks like for me, it will definitely be living up to its title of "Favorite Socks." Recommended, with the above reservation for beginners. -- Joanna Daneman, Middletown, DE USA

Amazon Price: $15.61 (as of 12/15/2009)

2-at-a-Time Socks: Revealed Inside. . . The Secret of Knitting Two at Once on One Circular Needle Works for any Sock Pattern!

by: Melissa Morgan-Oakes

Sock knitters everywhere know the frustration of Second Sock Syndrome. It goes something like this: A cute new sock pattern and soft, foot-warming yarn lead to many happy knitting hours, resulting in . . . ONE sock. The first sock is done (and it's adorable!) but pattern distraction sets in. Who wants to knit the same project all over again? There are so many new projects waiting to be discovered.

Melissa Morgan-Oakes ends the drudgery of the second sock by showing knitters how to cast on and knit two socks at one time on one long circular needle! Her method is captured in step-by-step photographs, clearly showing knitters how to turn out two socks at the same time. Goodbye to lonely, abandoned single socks. Hello to unlimited pretty pairs, knit on one needle (often finished on the same day), and worn with pride and that gratifying sense of accomplishment.

Oakes is a dedicated knitter, knitwear designer, and knitting instructor who has known the frustration of Second Sock Syndrome. Her easy-to-learn technique enables sock stitchers to adapt any pattern to her two-at-a-time method. But before experimenting with other patterns, readers will want to try Morgan-Oakes's 15 original designs. Fun and creative, they include simple to complex choices, a variety of yarn weights, and designs for women, men, and children.

Socks are small, relatively inexpensive, and interesting to knit - a favorite portable choice of busy knitters. Keep the fun in sock-stitching with the innovative new technique that produces two socks - yes, that's one sock for each foot - at the very same time!

Now it makes complete sense
I've been hearing about knitting socks 2-at-a-time for a while now, but no description ever quite got the concept across to me. This clear, beautifully photographed book FINALLY got the idea through my head and into my fingers. My family will be so happy that I won't abandon sock designs after only knitting the first one anymore. The instructions alone are worth the price, but the included patterns are an incredible bonus. I'll be knitting socks out of this book for a long, long time to come (and all the pairs will be finished at the same time and they'll MATCH, hallelujah!). -- Cindy Simon, Long Island, NY, USA

Brilliant
What a concept! The technique works well with mittens, gloves and the new rage of fingerless mitts. It allows the crafter to create identical items without the tedium of counting rows and endless measuring.

The format of the book is perfect for a knitter as the internal spine allows the book to lie flat for easy following of the pattern. The photos are clear and with the technical shots and well written text the technique is easy to master.

As always Melissa's patterns are distinctive, perfectly written and easy to follow. This book should be in every knitters reference library. -- Mary A.,western MA, U.S.A.

Amazon Price: $11.02 (as of 12/15/2009)

Hello Kitty Knitting Machine

Amazon Price: $22.95 (as of 12/15/2009)

Singer Knitting Machine

Amazon Price: $24.99 (as of 12/15/2009)

The Ultimate Knitting Machine

Amazon Price: $130.99 (as of 12/15/2009)

Singer Spool Knitter Machine

Amazon Price: $18.99 (as of 12/15/2009)

NKOK Singer Spool Knitter & Knitting Machine Activity Set

Amazon Price: $59.99 (as of 12/15/2009)

New Wooden Swift Yarn Winder Medium

Amazon Price: $52.99 (as of 12/15/2009)

Darice 1171-58 Set of 4 Round Plastic Knitting Looms

Amazon Price: $19.99 (as of 12/15/2009)

Yarn Ball Winder

Amazon Price: $27.72 (as of 12/15/2009)

29" Circular Bamboo Knitting Needles - US Sizes 1-15

Amazon Price: $25.00 (as of 12/15/2009)

Interweave Press Book-The Knitter's Handy Guide to Yarn Requirements

by: Ann Budd

Amazon Price: $5.95 (as of 12/15/2009)

Loom Knitting Primer: A Beginner's Guide to Knitting on a Loom, with over 30 Fun Projects

by: Isela Phelps

Knitting looms are flying off the shelves in craft stores because loom- knitting is such an easy craft to take up-it can be learned by both children and adults alike in just a few hours. If you have fond memories of spool knitting (a round wooden spool with a central hole surrounded by four small nails) when you were a child then you know how easy it was to create yards and yards of knitted tubes. Today's loom are just as easy and fun to use!

Widely available in craft stores, looms come in a variety of shapes and sizes, some are circular, others rectangular, some tiny and some large. The size of the loom dictates the size of the knitted piece although you can easily join smaller panels together to make larger items.

This book is designed as a hands on project resource as well as an essential reference for the growing band of loom knitters. Clear step by step illustrations throughout show how to cast-on, bind-off and knit a wide range of stitches on both round looms and knitting boards. Practice projects are provided for each technique, and there are more then 30 attractive patterns to get the crafter started.
- the first book to provide patterns for an increasingly popular tool
- comprehensive techniques and information provide the essential back-up manual to supplement the minimal instructions that come with the looms
- over 30 quick and easy patterns for sweaters and accessories
- written by an expert in the field

Must-have book for Loom Knitters!
This book has everything. It educates the reader on the various looms available and what you can make with them, discusses the different kinds of yarn you can use, and introduces knitting terms and equipment needed for loom knitting.
For the beginning loomer it assumes no previous knowledge, and explains step-by-step how to use your loom, from casting on to binding off and everything in-between, with clear illustrations throughout. For the more advanced loomer, how to do stitches other than the e-stitch are explained, and then used in projects from simple to advanced. If you can only buy one book on loom knitting, make it this one!! -- Marj R., Michigan, USA

Amazon Price: $16.47 (as of 12/16/2009)

Loom Knitting Pattern Book: 38 Easy, No-Needle Designs for All Loom Knitters (No-Needle Knits)

by: Isela Phelps

For all those who have struggled to knit with needles, loom knitting is an easy craft to master---in only a few hours even the novice knitter can create fabulous accessories, clothes, bags, afghans, and more. Loom knitting is a revolutionary way of knitting that uses a circular or rectangular loom, or a knitting board, consisting of a frame with pegs. Looms are fun and easy to use, even for those with no knitting experience.

In her follow-up to the successful LOOM KNITTING PRIMER, Isela offers over 32 projects ranging from simple to advanced, each with illustrations and crystal clear, easy-to-follow instructions. Learn how to make more original, beautiful, and practical items quickly and easily. An essential resource for both the novice loom-knitter and the experienced knitter hungry for new patterns.

The author, Isela Phelps is the author of LOOM KNITTING PRIMER and part of Décor Accents, Inc., a manufacturer of knitting looms. She teaches knitting loom classes at Yarn Today, her local yarn store in Utah. She is an active member of five knitting loom online community groups, two of which she started and moderates.

Inspirational!
This book's for someone who's got the basics down-pat & is ready to try something more innovative! A lot of funtastic ideas & designs, & still a few items for the faint at heart or someone advancing from the beginner stage! I felt that anyone who enjoys the loom knitting would have to simply LOVE this book!

Amazon Price: $16.47 (as of 12/16/2009)

Learn New Stitches on Circle Looms

by: Anne Bipes

Learn new stitches on knitting looms and knit up a variety of items for yourself, your family and your friends. The designs in this book utilize a variety of creative stitch patterns and interesting yarns. Loomers of every skill level will find something new and exciting to make.

Jump to the next level of Loom Knitting!
Learn New Stitches on Circle Looms is by far one of the best books written for the circle looms! Easy to understand instructions, wonderful how-to photos, beautiful photos of finished projects, and informative charts! Very interesting techniques! The projects are ALL very popular now! Well done Anne! -- Beth M. Price "Fiber Artist" ,GA, USA

Amazon Price: $9.95 (as of 12/16/2009)

Learn to Knit on Circle Looms 1405

by: Denise Layman

A Jewel of a Book for Loomers
I love this book! Have highly recommended it to a lot of folks. It has a good selection of patterns - afghan,baby blanket,scarves, hats, socks, poncho, and my favorites, bangle bags. I've made a LOT of the bangle bags and like that there are patterns for two sizes. The instructional pages are well-written and have great photographs. -- R. Gehres (Texas)

Great for beginners and intermediates on looms
I really enjoyed this book for the great color pictures and details of how to do stitches. Most of the basic stitches are covered and instructions are clear. I made all the hats, scarves and also the afghan. I enjoyed it and would love a sequel with more details on new stitches! -- Erica P., Flagstaff, AZ, USA

Amazon Price: $9.95 (as of 12/16/2009)

In The Attic Books-Round Loom Knitting Patterns

The Knitting loom pattern book is full of great information to help you enhance the quality of your knit projects.

This fun 61 page book includes lots of patterns and information for knitting with round knitting looms. Create afghans, baby booties, christmas stockings, hats, scarves, socks, sweaters, and much more. Over 50 pictures and illustrations to teach you how to make the most of your knitting projects. Best of all the patterns will work on most round knitting looms.

Amazon Price: $9.00 (as of 12/16/2009)

Big Needle Knitting

by: Bobbie Matela

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List Price: $19.95

Socks Soar on Two Circular Needles: a Manual of Elegant Knitting Techniques and Patterns

by: Cat Bordhi

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Amazon Price: $16.95 (as of 12/16/2009)
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HatHeads: 1 Man + 2 Knitting Needles = 50 Fun Hat Designs

by: Trond Anfinnsen

Release Date: 07/28/2009

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Amazon Price: $16.52 (as of 12/16/2009)
List Price: $22.95

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Knitting Basics: All You Need to Know to Take Up Your Needles and Get Knitting

by: Betty Barnden

Release Date: 11/17/2005

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List Price: $23.95

2-at-a-Time Socks: Revealed Inside. . . The Secret of Knitting Two at Once on One Circular Needle Works for any Sock Pattern!

by: Melissa Morgan-Oakes

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Amazon Price: $11.02 (as of 12/16/2009)
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