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October 12, 2005

My Wish List

My knitting library is pitifully small. I taught myself everything beyond knit and purl (thanks Mom!) from a book, mostly Stitch 'n' Bitch. So of course, I also had to buy Stitch 'n' Bitch Nation, although I don't think it's nearly as good. My only other knitting books are:
1. Last-Minute Knitted Gifts. I love this book. The photos are gorgeous, and it has so many patterns that I actually want to knit. I say "actually," because I am a practical knitter and if I'm going to shell out the bucks for good yarn, then I'm going to make something I will actually use.
2. Idiot's Guide to Knitting and Crocheting. Good illustrations. No patterns to speak of.
3. Big Book of Knitting. This was a gift. It's a little outdated as far as the sample patterns go, but it's been useful for learning how to knit cables.

I think it is clear: I need more knitting books. I have taught myself almost everything I know out of a book, and they're getting stale. I don't feel the need to go crazy with fair isle or steeking just yet, but I'm ready to learn some new stuff.

So, any suggestions? Remember, I am boring and practical. So no matter how cool those pictures in Loop-d-Loop are, I'm not going to buy that book. I am not a woodland sprite so I don't need to dress like one.

Posted by zarah at October 12, 2005 10:00 AM

Comments

Dear Woodland Sprite,

For an excellent basic must-have, I would definitely recommend The Knitter's Handy Book of Patterns by Ann Budd. The patterns allow you to knit any garment (sweaters, gloves, mittens, hats, tams, vests, socks, and scarves) in any size and in any weight of yarn. It's really helpful when you want to use up some stash yarn and you need a pattern to match it. (Go check it out on amazon.com... you can see some pretty good pictures inside the book.)

I was just in London this past weekend and finally picked up Scarf Style. I've been seeing everyone's posts on it for a long time and now I can see why it's so popular. The patterns are beautiful and varied. They're a bit more complicated and look like a good chance to practice some new techniques without having to do it on a much bigger (and more expensive) project. I bought yarn for 3 of the projects and can't wait to get started. I always think it's a good sign when you want to knit at least 3 things from a book.

I've also heard good things about Weekend Knitting. I'm interested to hear what other people have to say about it. Let us know if you get any books!

Posted by: Jeannine at October 12, 2005 10:40 AM

Oh yeah, I forgot! I have Scarf Style too! I loooooooooove it!

Posted by: Zarah at October 12, 2005 1:32 PM

I like to check out the knitting books from my local library. I take them home, look at them for a couple of weeks, and then if I'm sad to have to return them...I know I should probably own it.

Posted by: Christy at October 12, 2005 6:12 PM