Knitters will delight in these 25 traditional and innovative vest patterns collected from around the world and through the ages. Both functional and decorative, these wonderful projects for men's and women's vests are accompanied by folk stories and regional histories from the country of the design's origin, including Tibet, Scandinavia, Guatemala, Japan, North America, and many others. More than a pattern book, readers will feel connected to the cultures behind the projects as they bring these native crafts to life.

With 30 completely original patterns for fun and functional hats, this globe-trotting collection presents clear illustrations and step-by-step instructions for knitters of all skill levels. History and folklore from the hat's country of origin accompany each project. Included are felted cowboy hats, festive hats from Cameroon and Japan, historic derbies from around Europe, a beaded cloche from Afghanistan, warm cossacks from Russia, and darling baby bonnets from Nigeria and China. Each unique topper is an item of style and of substance. The imaginative and versatile designs and range of yarns and techniques put a new spin on the standard hat pattern and reinterpret these folk classics for modern knitters.

Shawls are currently making a huge comeback in the fashion world, but many people do not realize that the shawl has been worn for many centuries and in many cultures. This collection of patterns and traditions features shawls from around the world. From the Himalayas to Spain, from Iceland to Japan, and from Mexico to Norway, many of the shawls featured here have been taken from examples of historic knitted shawls. Other designs have been translated into knitwear from patterns for woven or lace shawls. Included are 25 patterns as well as historical and cultural information about shawls that have been used for prayer and mourning, as bridal veils, and as christening garments. Each design is presented with a full-page color photo, written instructions, and charts.

These 20 patterns, ranging in difficulty from beginner to advanced, take knitters on a world tour of buttoned, clasped, and tied coats, jackets, and wraps. Inspired by open-front garments and textiles from around the globe--including Austria, England, Japan, Peru, and Norway--these figure-flattering designs bring a contemporary edge to a variety of knitting traditions. Step-by-step instructions and copious photographs illustrate how to use standard stockinette, garter, and cable stitches to create chic projects such as shepherd's frocks, tweed coats, Peruvian gauntlet wraps, and Faroese-patterned jackets. More advanced techniques for fanciful lace and colorwork and the history behind beach pattern is also included.

Offering mitten patterns from around the world, this introduction to folk knitting is followed by a generous section on the techniques of knitting mittens. Among topics covered are gauge, wool selection (including techniques for washing and felting wool), casting on, plait edging, ribbed and unribbed cuffs, and a long section on the ever-elusive thumb. Also detailed are techniques for hand-knit mitten cords, finishing, and sizing.

Each of these 20 fun projects lets you experiment with color, pattern, design, and technique. "This is another offering in the popular "Vogue Knitting on the Go" series... featuring designs by leading knitwear designers. This volume includes some ambitious projects. But overall there are more socks here to interest beginning and intermediate knitters. Recommended for public libraries."--"Library Journal."