It’s the essential guide for chicks with sticks—because knit happens. From the tools of the trade to the knitty-gritty of techniques and patterns, all with easy-to-follow step-by-step illustrated techniques. Stockinette stitch, rib stitch, seed stitch. Increasing and decreasing. All the bells and whistles: fringes, tassels, cables, intarsia, crab stitch, and Fair Isle. Plus the stitch doctor’s own special bag of tricks and how to hook up with other knitters. After the how-tos come the why-to: forty hop, stylish patterns, as good for beginners as they are for purely pros. Featuring: Coney Island fireworks scarf Punk rock backpack Crickets technicolor techno-cozies Pippi knee-stockings Big bad baby blanket To-dye-for sweater Princess Snowball cat bed Queen of Hearts bikini

Leading designer Debbie Bliss takes you, lesson by lesson, through the techniques and stitches of knitting, from casting on the first stitch to creating an intricate Fair Isle cardigan. Presented as nine workshops, each lesson builds on the skills already learned to ensure steady, confident progress. As well as teaching new skills, each workshop finishes with projects specially designed to put them into practise. The first lesson looks at materials and equipment, then takes you through most of the basic stitches and techniques. Subsequent lessons cover simple stitch patterns, Aran knitting, entrelac, and finishing and design techniques. Each lesson also presents a collection of stitches that builds into a library, and projects range from clothing for the family to cushions and a throw for the home. Packed with hundreds of colour photos and illustrations, this is an ideal how-to for beginners and a valuable reference for more experienced knitters.

'Knitting has replaced networking as the hippest after-hours occupation.' So says Vogue. Everyone from Julia Roberts to Russell Crowe has been spotted with knitting needles in their hands - knitting has never been trendier. Many new knitters come to the craft when they find themselves wanting to knit something for a new baby, so this is the perfect handbook. It's packed with basic instructions, from how to cast on and get the tension right to simple shaping and the key knitting stitches -all accompanied by detailed colour illustrations. Fifteen stylish, accessible knitting patterns, from designs for baby blankets and bootees to simple cardigans and sweaters, then allow you to put your new crafting skills into practice.

Previously published as The Beginners Guide to Knitting (978-1-90397-583-1), this popular book has been given a completely new and updated look. Now in a handy small format that fits comfortably in a bag and wire-bound so that it lies open while you are working, it also has a useful fold-out flap at the back that provides a quick and easy reference to all the abbreviations used in the patterns. All the essential techniques are covered, including basic garter and stocking stitch, casting on and casting off, and increasing and decreasing, all clearly explained using step-by-step photographs and simple instructions. Alison's designs have a timeless appeal that will delight knitters of all ages, and there are projects for children as well as adults. Within a few pages you will be knitting a fabulous stripy scarf, and by the end of the book you will be able to knit yourself a gorgeous cable-knit cardigan! Packed full of helpful tips and simple projects, this is a 'must-have' book for anyone who would love to knit but doesn't know how to.

Who knew you could actually knit without needles? Put down those complicated knitting projects that take forever to finish. Knitting Without Needles brings cool home, gifts, and clothing accessories--cowls, totes, rugs, poufs, scarves, and more--within arm’s reach. An all-in-one resource for a new kind of craft, this book shows you how to loop yarn with your fingers or your forearms with thirty patterns that are simple to follow and produce stylish results. Best of all, many of them knit up fast—in less than an hour! Even if you’ve never picked up knitting needles, you can easily master the techniques to make fun knits with kids and for kids (a princess crown, baby booties) and even last-minute gifts (a statement necklace for your fashionista friend). With stunning photography, plenty of step-by-step photos, and a detailed resource section, Knitting Without Needles is your go-to for a new way to knit.

This member of the Little Books series is perfect for beginners! The little size makes it easy for you to take wherever you go so that you can learn the easy knit stitches!