Knitting

Knitting is one of the most versatile and exciting of textile structures, and this book rediscovers its potential by exploring new ideas for design through the power of the stitch. Written for the dedicated knitter, it goes into the fine detail of how knitting works, questioning and examining how stitches can influence and shape the fabric by pulling in, pulling up, and making it stretchy or firm, thick or thin. Over forty projects are included that range from simple, straightforward scarves and bags to more intricate jackets and organic sculptural 3D pieces. Detailed, innovative and inspiring, it is invaluable reading for all knitters and textile designers. A dictionary of stitches compares each stitch with stocking stitch, and shows how the shape and feel of knitting can be changed dramatically, and a chapter explores different ways of shaping fabric around the edges and even within the knitting, using increases, decreases and short-row shaping to texture the surface or to make three-dimensional forms. Step-by-step instructions are supported with explanations, charts, diagrams and photos, and techniques are discussed in depth to help understand different outcomes and how 'problems' can be used creatively. A detailed and inspiring new book on knitting that pushes ideas and boundaries to encourage creative thinking and confidence in experimenting, with charts, diagrams and illustrations - 362 colour photographs in total.

Having trained in textile design and worked in textiles while bringing up her family, Alison Ellen began making hand knitwear in the 1980s and went on to teach short courses and textile groups. Inspired by her research into knitting history and technique, she wrote three books on knitting, including the bestselling Hand Knitting - new directions and Knitting - colour, structure and design for Crowood. This new book captures her passion for knitting with bold experimentation, and draws on her thirty years' experience of designing, teaching and exploring the versatile technique of hand knitting.