Hand Knitting: New Directions [Hardcover]

Alison Ellen (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: December 1, 2002

Hand Knitting: New Directions celebrates this traditional craft with a bold approach to the opportunities that knitted fabric presents. Forget knitting patterns—this book shows you how to explore the qualities of knitting in a new way. Each technique and idea is clearly explained in detail, so that beginners can follow easily and more experienced knitters can see the potential of this unique approach. The book includes an explanation of basic stitches and techniques and creative ways of using them; advice on how to design your own garments, cushions, and throws; and projects for a range of fabulous sweaters, jackets, hats, and cushions.

Editorial Reviews

From Booklist

Knitting is hot! Hand Knitting is centered on technique, beginning with the tools of the trade, needles, yarn, etc., and focusing on various stitches that bring color and texture into the work--and this is not just how-to but explanations of why the stitches work the way they do. The emphasis on structure pushes readers away from the usual pick-a-pattern format and leads them into more ambitious undertakings, like designing sweaters, with complicated elements. More advanced knitters or those interested in design will be the best audience here. Ilene Cooper
Copyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved

Review

“This is a beautiful, idea–provoking book…” -- Library Journal

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Product Details

• Hardcover: 144 pages
• Publisher: Crowood Press (December 1, 2002)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1861265344
• ISBN-13: 978-1861265340
• Product Dimensions: 11.1 x 8.1 x 0.6 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.7 pounds
• Average Customer Review: 4.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (3 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #820,376 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

36 of 36 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Inspirations galore, September 28, 2003

By 

T. L. Shea (Seattle, WA United States) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Hand Knitting: New Directions (Hardcover)

If you're looking for directions on how to knit, this isn't the book you want.

If you're looking for fresh ideas and new design directions, to take your knitting to the next level, you will find a plethora of ideas to inspire you.

Some of the "new directions" include knitting in circles out from the center, modular knitting techniques (more than just mitered squares), different takes on intarsia and fair isle, several ideas for stripes, etc, etc, etc.

This is not a manual for the "by the book" knitter - but if you're ready to take your own knitting path, you might enjoy the view.

34 of 45 people found the following review helpful:

3.0 out of 5 stars Interesting Book, June 9, 2003

By 

Bonnie - See all my reviews

This review is from: Hand Knitting: New Directions (Hardcover)

Like wat the editorial review says, the front portion of the book covers several techniques of knitting, the basics like increases, decreases, yarn overs, color knitting (fair isle, slip stitch), short row etc. There are samples given to illustrate the techniques and basic instructions as well.

There are several projects at the back that covers knitting garments in unusual and challenging ways like top down, side to side etc. It has pullovers, vests, bedjackets, pillows and hats. But just a few projects are given. Have not tried them yet, so not sure if there are any mistakes.

The book is pretty expensive to buy and if you are a frequent buyer of knitting magazines, you would have read similar articles relating to knitting techniques before.

If you are an experienced knitting, then don't think you will need the book, rather borrow a copy from friends or the library to try the projects.

1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars Reprint, April 26, 2011

By 

Ursula "knit to live" (rochester, minnesota United States) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Hand Knitting: New Directions (Paperback)

Beware, this is a reprint from 2002. I own it and think it is a good addition if you like to be inspired by books rather than be provided with patterns .