A Passion for Knitting: Step-By-Step Illustrated Techniques, Easy Contemporary Patterns, and Essential Resources for Becoming Part of the Worl

Going beyond the standard how-to, this two-part book authoritatively covers both the basics and the culture of knitting, appealing to novices and experts alike. The book is well organized and thorough, generally fulfilling the authors' mission to help people learn the craft without a teacher. After explaining the knit, purl and rib stitches, the text offers patterns for a variety of scarves, sweaters, socks, strip throws, baby blankets-and even a cell phone holder. The instructions, while clear and explicit, betray a commercial tie-in: one of the authors is marketing director of the company that makes the recommended brand of yarn. Knitting has obvious artistic and social appeal, note the authors in the collection of essays that constitute Part II. In fact, they claim, there's psychological evidence that casting on and cabling contributes to the knitter's overall well-being by helping to reduce stress. This section also brims with such useful information as sizing guidelines, suggested reading lists, Web sites, and fairs and festivals. 16 pages of color photos, 50 line drawings.