Vikki Haffenden

I'm determined to master more than just the basics in knitting.

Knit Step by Step will take you from those basics - Tools and Materials to Techniques, to Projects and finally Stitch Patterns.

What I really, really like about DK books are the full colour pictures that accompany the information. And in this case, it's the actual items that would be employed in knitting. The information is laid out in a clean, attractive way that lets you read one piece at a time.

Very detailed, close up, well contrasted images are used to showcase the various stitches. These are really easy to follow. And then we arrive at the place I've never gotten past - harder stitches and patterns.....The key is not to panic! Just pick one to try and give it a go. That's what I'm doing - Fair Isle patterns are still aways off for me. But when I am ready, Knit by Knit has great, detailed info just waiting to be explored. Hint - make sure you check out the stitch pattern glossary at the back - this is where I picked the stitches I wanted to try.

And there are some projects included - there's a nice (easy!) baby blanket I'm going to make.

Knit Step by Step is a good resource for new and experienced knitters. Another great book from DK!… (altro)

There's a knitting group at my local library. I've stopped in many times to see what they're making and each and every time I leave I think - "I want to learn how to knit." And I've convinced myself I will knit hats for each and every family member for next Christmas!

But, I need some direction and instruction. And I've found it in The Knitting Book - New Edition- by Vikki Haffenden and Frederica Patmore.

The Knitting Book is a fabulous resource for anyone - beginner through to those who already have skills. Everything is covered from start to finish.... Materials, including types and weights of yarn. All accompanied with large, full colour photographs that really allow the user to see the detail. Tools includes the same excellent photos detailing needles and other equipment. The Swatch Gallery contains 30 different styles and full instructions for these are found in another chapter at the end of the book.

But how to knit? Well, the Key Techniques chapter has very explicit and detailed instructions from casting on, so many ways to knit with patterns, colours, styles, embellishments and more, right through to casting off. Over 250 step-by step techniques! Again, all with colour photographs showing how to proceed very clearly. This is what I love about DK books - the clear instructions, clean layout, easy to see and process detailed information and most of all the colour photos.

The Knitting Book also includes a number of project ideas for beginners through to seasoned knitters. And yes - there's two hat patterns! And a really easy baby blanket that would be a good starter project for me. There are sweaters, throws, runners, an arm knitted rug and more. A wonderful resource!… (altro)

Bought this when I decided to learn how to knit based on a recommendation from a knitters blog. I am glad I did so because this book is very complete and clear.
Love that there are several stitches along with their patterns to give them a try. The photographs and instructions are very clear; I only wish this book was also found as a video tutorial to make it perfect.
I didn't give it five stars because I felt that in some parts, the terms got too technical and this is supposed to be a beginners knitting book for completely clueless people like me.… (altro)