Divided into six families of knit -essential, rib, openwork, fanciful, relief, cable – each stitch is illustrated photographically and explained with simple step-by-step instructions. Before the chapters devoted to each family of knit stitches, there is a brief introduction summarising basic knitting techniques and considerations, such as what yarns to choose.
Knitting is a timeless art and, one that continues to ride on a surge at the start of the 2020s. It is one of the most popular textile hobbies, with English-language speaking countries topping the number of knitters per capita. This beautifully packaged compendium is sure to appeal to knitters of all abilities and styles.
Knitting is a timeless art and, one that continues to ride on a surge at the start of the 2020s. It is one of the most popular textile hobbies, with English-language speaking countries topping the number of knitters per capita. This beautifully packaged compendium is sure to appeal to knitters of all abilities and styles.
Reviews
I can't get enough of stitch dictionaries. They are endlessly fascinating to me, and I am always happy to dive into a new volume, searching for a stitch I haven't come across before. So when I found the beautifully presented 7" x 9" hardcover 200 Knit Stitches by Laura Valfort, I knew right away it would be a welcome addition to my knit library...
The 200 stitch patterns included in this book are cleverly photographed, with stitches still live on the needle. All stitches are worked in smooth yarn and a soft muted color palette that make every pattern clear and easy to read. The patterns are organized into six main categories: Basics, Ribbing, Lace, Decorative, Textured, and Crossed Stitches and Cables, although some of the stitches could easily cross over into more than one category... The stitch patterns start off simple and become more complex as the book progresses. However, if you are beginner, you don't have to worry since this 192-page volume begins with a chapter called "Knitting Basics" that explains every technique you will need to work the 200 stitches that follow. Valfort even explains how to choose the right yarn for a particular stitch and proves her point by displaying clear photos of a few of the simplest stitches in different fibers and yarn weights. She also provides instructions for casting on, binding off, how to work the basic stitches, how to increase, decrease, and work all of the other various techniques needed to complete any of the patterns included. Many of the step-by-step instructions are accompanied by corresponding numbered photographs, clearly illustrating how to work each step.
Experienced knitters may recognize many of the simpler stitches but will be delightfully surprised by some that are a new twist on a classic, like the "Alternating rib with twist," the "Staggered eyelet," or the "Asymmetrical woven cable." So if you are new to knitting or are just looking for some fresh inspiration, I think you will love flipping through the pages of this handy dictionary.
I enjoyed reading this book and after flipping through it I've been making plans for more projects! I think the book is laid out very well and the instructions are easy to follow. Having written instructions can be really helpful for beginners since charts can sometimes be quite daunting to look at at first, so I appreciate a more beginner friendly approach!