Knitbook
The Basics & Beyond
Complete with a library of stitches, this knitting how-to book is perfect for beginners.
For those interested in learning how to knit, Knitbook provides a solid foundation of all the basics and will prepare newbie knitters well for more intricate projects down the road.
Knitbook starts with an explanation of the different types of yarn and needles and how they might work for different projects. The rudimentary building blocks of knitting (casting on, the knit and purl stitches, and binding off) are explained, along with handy color-coded illustrations. The book then delves into the standard fundamentals of knitting (e.g., how to read a pattern, how to join two pieces, how to block a piece, how to use different kinds of needles, how to cable, etc.).
Those looking to expand their collection of knitting patterns should look elsewhere; only three are included in this book: a scarf, hand warmers, and a hat. What the book offers instead is a library of stitch patterns. Collected in full in the back, they are also found at the close of the appropriate chapters. For example, the basket-weave stitch is found at the close of the chapter explaining how to do knit and purl stitches, while the braided cable is found, as the name suggests, at the end of the chapter on cabling. The placement of these patterns lets readers practice the skills learned in the chapter, while it keeps the knitting interesting. Though the stitches involved might be simple, the finished product will look anything but plain.
The inclusion of photographs throughout the work augments the illustrations, aiding reader comprehension. Its relatively compact size makes it easy to carry along with your knitting. Both a comprehensive table of contents and a thorough index make for easy reference. Perfect for beginners, this is a book knitters will want to keep on hand.
Reviewed by
Allyce Amidon
Disclosure: This article is not an endorsement, but a review. The publisher of this book provided free copies of the book to have their book reviewed by a professional reviewer. No fee was paid by the publisher for this review. Foreword Reviews only recommends books that we love. Foreword Magazine, Inc. is disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
