Customer Reviews

The Yarn Lover's Guide to Hand Dyeing: Beautiful Color and Simple Knits

5 star:		(20)
4 star:		(4)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

I bought this book with zero knowledge of yarn dyeing. I got past the beginning with the parts about tools, dyes, etc. As I started looking at the projects, I noticed that there were "ingredients" such as synthropol and soda ash, which I hadn't remembered seeing anything about. I assumed I had missed that part, but I kept looking and couldn't find anything about the chemicals used in dyeing.

I ended up being very confused about the whole thing. I paid to take a class at my local yarn shop instead. After the class, I found the book made much more sense and was quite useful.

I did get confused with one part -- she said to make a 10 yard in diameter skein, but I thought that was awfully long. I actually contacted her and she said 5 yards up, 5 yards down. That's more like "circumference" than "diameter," and it makes a really big difference.

In searching the Internet, I found a book reviewer who was also confused by the lack of information on the chemicals, just like I was. She contacted the publisher, who told her that the author agreed she needed to add a chapter on that next time around. I feel kinda sad that I bought an incomplete version of the book.

All that said, I am taking on one of the projects in the book -- from dyeing to making a sweater, and it's been fun. That's one thing I really like about it. It doesn't just give general technique, it gives a finished yarn and then shows you exactly how to get there, including the exact yarns used. Then it gives you a project you can make out of the yarn.

I also think that in addition to the specific projects, it would be nice to get very general use of the dyes. For instance, Jacquard acid dyes. Give an explanation of how they work, what you need and how to generally use them. Then give specific projects and explanations for achieving them.

I do like the book, despite it's shortfalls, and the author was very nice when I contacted her.

I completely disagree with the previous review. I have bought a few yarn dyeing books over the past year and quite frankly, got rid of them immediately. Too in depth, too confusing and only included acid dyes. I thought I found all the information I needed on the internet for free.

However, I think this book included many methods-steam, mason jars, stove top, as well as hand painting and soaking. I liked the fact that Kool-Aid and other alternative dyes were discussed. The patterns were simple patterns, but nice that both knit and crochet were included. I also found the methods of various "professionals" very interesting. To me, this is a keeper. I have used different dyeing methods, including Kool-Aid and this book will be on my reference shelf!

The night my copy of Linda's book arrived, I took it with me to bed and read it till I fell asleep. I'm very excited to have this one in my knitting library. I am a knitter, crocheter, weaver, spinner, and I've done some dying. What I love about this book is that it has a project for each type of dying. IT'S A BOOK TO SPARK MY CREATIVITY. In this one book I have a sampling of many different fibers, dying techniques, and pattern ideas. I like the fact that it makes dying look simple, accessible, and fun. The pictures are beautiful and unstaged--actual shots of these artists at work and of their studios. I can't wait to read the interviews with hand-dyers. Another great feature is that there is a picture of the materials you'll need for each project, so that I have a visual idea of what I need, in addition to the detailed instructions. Plus, there's a discussion on safety, color theory, the different techniques, the different types of dye. I'm already trying to decide which project to make first!

The past several years have seen an explosion of hand dyers offering their yarns to knitters. Many knitters are tempted to try their hand at designing unique colors, but have no idea where to begin. Linda Labelle's new book, The Yarn Lover's Guide to Hand Dyeing: Beautiful Color and Simple Knits is the perfect introduction to this complex art.

Beginning with an introduction to color theory, yarn preparation, and the basic techniques used throughout the book, the book is organized according to dye type. Moving from Kool Aid and food coloring to commercial dyes, each dye method is reviewed and illustrated using lots of pictures. The dye technique is followed by a pattern designed to utilize the newly created yarn. Although the patterns are fun, their main purpose is to illustrate how the newly dyed yarn looks once knit up, showcasing the dye's effect. Patterns include socks and hats, ponchos/shawls, gauntlets and even a lace sweater.

Scattered throughout are interviews with seven professional dyers. The beautifully photographed sections show the dyers at work in their studios, surrounded by stunning yarns. Labelle discusses dyeing with some of the yarn world's luminaries: Cheryl Schaefer from Schaefer Yarn and Karen Selk of Treenway Silks. Darlene Hayes of Hand Jive Knits shares her techniques and tips with her instructions on using eucalyptus, a product available to anyone (by order through a local florist), to create a beautiful natural dye.

Labelle assumes her readers are absolute beginners and provides instructions on everything from choosing the right gloves to complex dyeing methods. It is this careful instruction which makes The Yarn Lover's Guide to Hand Dyeing an excellent choice for anyone interested in learning dye methods.

Armchair Interviews says: A good geared to beginners and up.

This is a very practical guide to the vaious dye products available and ways to use each type. The dyes are specifically referred to by brand name and the book is VERY helpful.

This book actually arrived a few days ahead of schedule and I was pleasantly surprised! I have purchased other books on dyeing, but this one has simple, basic instructions and FINALLY some good info on cotton dyeing and microwave dyeing. Cute patterns too!

How inspired I am by the new dyeing book by Linda Labelle, owner and spirit of the yarn Tree in Williamsburg, Brooklyn! I already picked out two patterns that I feel I could have success with, the Cat Hat and Half Mitts!
As a novice dyer, I found the instructions clear and easy to follow. The set ups are easily doable at home. But my favorite part is the layout with its great photos and colors; They are both informative and insightful. The interview sections with dyers, knitters, store owners, etc across America were fascinating to read. In reading through the book, I get the same welcome feeling that I experience visiting Linda's store. This book is definitely a resource and enjoyment that I'll return to again and again.

- Barbra Frankel

I am currently using this book to learn how to acid dye my homespun yarns. I loved the articles on the individual fiber artists, and the really clear instructions on not only the different dyes, but the techniques involved. This is a priceless addition to my library that will be used again and again!

This book is a travelogue through the land of yarn. Along the way, you meet people making a living doing what they love. Linda interviews them, at their shops, and photographs their products. The photography brings the material alive.

As a textbook, this book will not make you an expert. It will provide solid foundation in the methods such that you can get good results. This is good! You come away with the skills to create your own works. Each chapter discusses another technique or substrate. You learn the basic techniques, along with some pitfalls to avoid, and some limitations of the process.

The patterns that are included also give you something to do with the yarn you create. The patterns are useful, even if you don't dye your own yarn. Again, the abundance of photographs bring the garments to life.

The only negative comment I have is that a glossary would be helpful. Most terms are defined in the text, but a collected glossary would be handy.

Even if you never dye a skein, the book's worth reading to see "What could be..."

Finally, a solution to when I know just what I want to make and what color or colors I want to be, but can't find that pefect fiber in that perfect color or combination. Now I can do it myself!

This book is a wonderful introduction and course in differnt dyeing techniques with lots of color, plenty of patterns to work up, and suggestions for using the various dyes with different fibers. Great attention to the details of what each dyeing process is, what tools are needed, safety precautions, and then great examples of knitted or crocheted garments using each specific process with different fibers. It will give any dyer inspiring ideas, but especially encouraging to the beginning dyer, me being one of them.

Also has important reminders that dyeing is an art, not just a science. It's nice to have the ups and downs pointed out and the practice sessions done on someone else's "dime." When I start dyeing, I'll know what to look out for and what I can expect from each process and which process yields what effect on specific fibers.

Charming interviews with different dyers. It's nice to put faces and stories to some of the yarns I covet and admire.

A terrific book. I am enjoying it not only just for the information, but looking at the great pictures really started my creative juices flowing. I've already started planning several different projects and I'm looking forward to following the excellent instructions using different dyeing techniques and fibers to create my own unique yarns.