AT THE LIBRARY

October 2, 2008

Knitting Books

As the days get shorter and the weather gets colder, many people are going to be looking for indoor activities. The following books highlight one popular hobby, knitting. Within these titles, beginner and experienced knitters will find a variety of gift ideas and projects to fill the hours.

EASY KNITS FOR KIDS: 50 KNIT AND CROCHET PROJECTS, by Family Circle

All of the projects in this book are organized into sections on winter, summer, and accessory projects. The patterns for beginner and intermediate knitters are easy to follow and each has a color photo of the finished product. While the majority of projects featured are for kids and teens, there are things that could be used for any age, such as hats and scarves. Also included are sections on crochet and a list of terms and abbreviations.

SIMPLE KNITS WITH A TWIST: UNIQUE PROJECTS FOR CREATIVE KNITTERS, by Erika Knight

This volume offers projects that go beyond sweaters and socks. These creative designs feature knitting that incorporates other materials such as beads, woven fabric, and fine wire. The patterns teach knitters how to use other skills like felting and patchwork to make their knitting more interesting. Projects for wall hangings, a chair cover, and a hanging basket liner give those looking for new ideas something fun to work with.

THE JOY OF KNITTING: TEXTURE, COLOR, DESIGN, AND THE GLOBAL KNITTING CIRCLE, by Lisa R. Myers

While each chapter may include a pattern, this book is mainly a look into the knitting experience, the many aspects of the knitting process and its global community. A history of knitting, facts about all of the many fibers available to knit with, how to choose color, and knitting gifts are covered. A chapter on knitting in the computer age discusses how technology has added a new element to the knitting circle.

GREAT KNITTED GIFTS, by Andrea Shackleton and Gayle Shackleton

All of the gift ideas included here could come in handy as the holiday season approaches. Many of the projects are not that time intensive and could be finished in plenty of time. There is a selection of design variations on sweaters, hats, scarves, and bags. Knitters are sure to find something that would fit their gift recipient.

THE NEW KNITTING STITCH LIBRARY, by Lesley Stanfield.

Over 300 stitches are illustrated in full color photographs for both beginner and accomplished knitters. They are divided into sections on knit and purl, cable, lace and bobble, and twisted stitches. Each stitch example has a chart to explain the pattern.