Weekend Knitting: 50 Unique Projects and Ideas (Hardcover)

~ Melanie Falick (Author), Ericka McConnell (Photographer)

Editorial Reviews

Product Description

Knitting is more popular today than it has been for decades-it's been called "the hot new hobby" and even "the new yoga." The latest generation of knitters thrives on quick projects that are creative, fulfilling, and relaxing-and can fit into a busy lifestyle. Weekend Knitting collects 50 unique, innovative projects and ideas for the beginning- and intermediate-level knitter, many of which can be made in a weekend or less.

Every project is presented in full-color photographs and with clear instructions. Weekend Knitting also features beautiful photos shot in and around real homes, evoking perfect knitting weekends filled with fresh air, friends, and delicious food.

Longtime knitting expert Melanie Falick has also brought together quotes about knitting, creativity, and balanced living from such diverse sources as Virginia Woolf, Pablo Picasso, and Saint Francis of Assisi. Recipes for treats such as hot cocoa and butter cookies and tips about fun and stress-reducing activities like hand massages, taking a bath, and hosting a knitting film festival complete the weekend knitting experience.

About the Author

Melanie Falick is the former editor-in-chief of Interweave Knits and the author of Knitting for Baby, Kids Knitting, and Knitting in America. She recently joined the editorial staff of Stewart, Tabori & Chang.

Ericka McConnell is a lifestyle photographer whose work has appeared in Oprah and Martha Stewart Living, and the books Yoga Within and Cocktail Parties with a Twist.

Product Details

• Hardcover: 176 pages
• Publisher: STC Craft (October 3, 2003)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1584792914
• ISBN-13: 978-1584792918
• Product Dimensions: 9.6 x 8.6 x 0.7 inches
• Shipping Weight: 2.1 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.1 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (64 customer reviews)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #91,244 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

121 of 121 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars Knit, read and enjoy!, October 29, 2003

By	Kathy M (Cumberland, Maryland United States) - See all my reviews

I purchased this book two weeks ago. This is not only a good knitting book it is also a good reading book. With the holidays approaching this is an excellent book for a few homemade gifts that work up quickly. So far I have made six pair of the Super Mittens with another pair on the needles. A pair can be made in a day. The butter cookie recipe is good with many variations (just like the knitting patterns). There are also wonderful knitting suggestions for decorating with yarn as well as suggestions for knitting gifts. The only complaint (if one could call it that) is the yardage on the Super Mittens. It calls for 75 yards for all sizes but I found it takes approximately 95-125 yards for the sizes woman's S-man's L. Otherwise it is an excellent book!

110 of 113 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars the perfect knitting book, July 8, 2004

By	Ara Jane Olufson (Seattle, WA United States) - See all my reviews (REAL NAME)

i adore this book. i'm a relatively experienced knitter and i've had no problems with any of the patterns so far. i've knit several of the flower washcloths, some turtleneck egg cozies, the super mittens, the felted stash accessories bag, and am currently in the midst of knitting the union square poncho. and i'll probably use this excellent book for many of the other patterns. i think the instructions are quite clear, especially the notes included in each pattern that explain any difficult parts of the project. also, as many other reviewers have noted, the pictures are quite beautiful. it's the perfect book for us younger(ish) knitters who want simple and hip (but not too hip) patterns--with a great range in level of difficulty--that inspire us to knit more.

46 of 46 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Unique projects, December 24, 2004

By	digikat "digikat" (Massachusetts) - See all my reviews

When it comes to knitting books, it's hard to compile a unique collection of patterns. The appeal of this book is that it contains some *new* ideas and projects. For example, instead of a usual washcloth, it has a pattern for a flower-shaped one. And where else will you find a pattern for an egg cozy? Other projects include two blankets, lace insert for a pillow case, argyle slippers (very cute), chair cushions, a knit chair seat (who would have thought?), toss pillow cover, two different bags and an accessory case, backgammon and checkers boards, a few scarves, a shawl and a poncho, pullovers for men, women and children, a cropped cardigan, mittens, gloves, and socks, lovely hat with ear flaps for a child, a knit doll, and finger puppets. Did you get all that?

Instructions are written clearly and completely, and each project is accompanied by great photographs and charts, if necessary. Interspersed throughout the book are other little tidbits, like how to make perfect soft-boiled eggs, hot chocolate and tea, how to give hand massage to knitters, suggestions for movies and books, and how to compile a gift basket for your favorite knitter. Lots of techniques are used in the book: chart reading, lace, intarsia, double knitting, cables, stripes, shaping, but no project is too advanced for a beginner knitter looking for a bit of a challenge.

Overall, great book that stands out from the rest by having unique projects.

P.S. There is no "learn to knit" section in this book.