(Part 2) Best needlecrafts & textile crafts books according to redditors
We found 1,804 Reddit comments discussing the best needlecrafts & textile crafts books. We ranked the 813 resulting products by number of redditors who mentioned them. Here are the products ranked 21-40. You can also go back to the previous section.
The Knitter's Book of Yarn by Clara Parks is the reference book you're looking for :)
Average was about 15 hours each with all the details. Trinket took the longest at about 20 hours because I had to engineer the pattern in some places.
The majority of the patterns were based from a book called Amiguru-Me. I did have to make up some pieces though, which was part of the process.
Edit: Included an Amazon link for the book. I bought the grizzly bear pattern for Trinket from this seller on Ravelry
Also an edit: For Pike's armor, I used the armor making techniques taught by Evil Ted. Any old-school G&S viewers might remember him teaching Stef & Jess how to make foam armor for the giant Trinket plush waaaaaaay back when. The armor is craft foam, coated with some craft glue and silver sharpie. There are hooks and eyes for the pieces so it can come apart, and velcro for the body piece (cause I ran out of hooks & eyes).
This really made me hate "fun fur" it is not fun.
You don't have to fussy cut. You just cut and stack 6 pattern repeats so they line up, then cut strips and then cut triangles. All the triangles are identical and make the hexagons. It's actually really easy and fun!
One-Block Wonders: One Fabric, One Shape, One-of-a-Kind Quilts https://www.amazon.com/dp/1571203222/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_TQmUBb1FYBJ29
I have a book, “Mega Mini Cross Stitch” by Makoto Oozu. It has just what you’re looking for. I got it on amazon.
ETA link:
https://www.amazon.com/Mega-Mini-Cross-Stitch-Awesome/dp/1910904384/ref=sr_1_1?crid=DEUSEF4NJPQX&keywords=mega+mini+cross+stitch&qid=1574037626&sprefix=Mega+mini+%2Caps%2C216&sr=8-1
Link for those not on mobile :)
The pattern is from this book it was the shirt dress, I just added longer sleeves and stiffer interfacing.
It looks like Twinkie Chan's pizza scarf pattern. It's in [this book.] (https://www.amazon.com/Twinkie-Crochet-Goodies-Fashion-Foodies/dp/0740797581/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1285225016&sr=8-1)
I paid ~$40 for all between eBay and Amazon. The only book I bought new was Amy Herzog's book for ~$20.
Actually I'm going to tell you NOT to start by altering your own clothes. It is actually easier to make something new than to alter clothing. I suggest you learn to sew from the following books: The Colette Sewing Handbook by Sarai Mitnik, the SEW Everything Workshop by Diana Rupp and Stitch by Stitch. All three of these books come with patterns for all sorts of projects. Once you graduate to some harder things, and especially if you are interested in sewing 1950s-inspired retro clothing, try Gerties New Book for Better Sewing By Gretchen Hirsch. This book has beautiful patterns and also helps with more couture techniques. Happy sewing!
You could look into the Fleece and Fiber Sourcebook (I think that's the right one, anyways) for suggestions of how to spin/process the fleeces. There are a lot of sheep breeds that are primarily meat breeds in other places that still have nice fleeces!
Most enabling book ever: The Fleece and Fiber Sourcebook
This is a Twinkie Chan pattern from this book. Chan Book
There is a similiar bacon and eggs pillow pattern on Ravelry. Pillow
I am making a pillow next since I already have the yarn and know the techniques. I actually think the pillow will get more use than the scarf.
It depends on where in the sweater I'm binding off. For a top-down sweater body or sleeves, I tend to use Jeny's Super Stretchy Bind-Off, the Invisible Ribbed Bind-Off, or the Sewn Bind-Off. For neck trimmings, I almost always used the Invisible Ribbed Bind-Off. Sometimes I'll just use the standard bind-off, but bind off in pattern (knit the knits and purl the purls and slip the first stitch over the second one). When working bottom-up and binding off the top shoulders/neck/collar, I use a standard bind-off since it's easier to Kitchener Stitch together (shoulders) or pick up stitches for the neck trimming (neck/collar).
I will say that my copy of Cast On, Bind Off has gotten so much use! Sometimes I try a new bind off and love it... other times I rip it and use one of my go-to bind offs, most of which I found in that book.
(As an aside, I try to list the bind-offs and cast-ons used in my rav project pages and try to remember to take detail pictures if you want to take a look.)
I enjoyed the Happy Hooker book. It's a good read and it gives a pretty good overview of how crochet works. Bonus - it was available at the local library so I got it for a month at no cost.
Twinkie Chan is one of my favorite crochet bloggers, and she has a lot of unique patterns. Like a pizza scarf, or a donut ottoman. It's all super cute. I have both of her books, and she is really good at writing patterns.
Twinkie Chan's Crochet Goodies for Fashion Foodies: 20 Yummy Treats to Wear https://www.amazon.com/dp/0740797581/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_DhTbAb1A9KE56
Twinkie Chan's Crocheted Abode a la Mode: 20 Yummy Crochet Projects for Your Home https://www.amazon.com/dp/158923930X/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_2iTbAb112112Y
Stitch 'N Bitch Crochet: The Happy Hooker I think this is the only book I really love. It has patterns that are pretty and you might actually be able to see yourself wearing. It also has a lot of simple/easy instructions for all kinds of techniques. This book taught me how to tapestry crochet which is my favorite thing!
I have A LOT of books / mags / etc. So many only have a 1 or 2 good things in them, or they are just presented poorly. But the Happy Hooker is a keeper!
Sounds like you'd like this one: https://www.amazon.com/Unicorns-Dragons-More-Fantasy-Amigurumi/dp/949164324X/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=amigurumi+dragon+book&qid=1567784001&s=gateway&sr=8-1
I recommend
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Knitting-Perfect-Fit-Melissa-Leapman/dp/0307586642/ref=sr_1_4?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1404892943&sr=1-4&keywords=knit+to+fit
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Knit-Flatter-Amy-Herzog/dp/1617690171/ref=sr_1_2?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1404892943&sr=1-2&keywords=knit+to+fit
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Knits-that-Edited-Potter-Craft/dp/0307586669/ref=sr_1_7?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1404892943&sr=1-7&keywords=knit+to+fit
These have patterns but also how to make patterns fit you, also there are some good video courses on designing your own stuff which i would recommend too, after all, you dont want just 1 thing to wear a few would be nice right?
I only have one, 400 Knitting Stitches, but it's seen a fair bit of use in the short time I've had it already. :)
TL;DR ahead~
I've been spinning for about 4 or 5 years now, and was using a drop spindle exclusively up until about a month ago. I just got a single treadle Ashford Traditional on long-term loan. I've only used it 3 or 4 times since then, so I'm not the best person to talk about wheel use. Spindles, on the other hand, are definitely my bag.
The most important things for a beginning spindler to have are a good spindle and decent fiber. The spindle doesn't have to be fancy, but it should be well-balanced, with a long spin time. I'm a big proponent of Kundert spindles as starter spindles; the one I have is my go-to for almost everything in the sport to aran range.
Good fiber is possibly even more important than a good spindle. Neppy, dry, or semi-felted fiber just makes the spinning process unpleasant, and you really have to push yourself to not give up when the fiber's fighting you. Super-short staple stuff is also generally not a good idea for beginning spinners; I started off with Coopworth, which is not the softest wool in the world, but it's definitely good at holding together. Blue-Faced Leicester and Border Leicester are also good options.
Related to that is the fact that fibers from different breeds of sheep (not to mention other fibers) have very different properties. These can influence the way you spin. Shorter fibers tend to be softer, but also more prone to wear. Longer fibers tend to be more wiry, but also more durable. The Fleece and Fiber Sourcebook is a really good source for information on sheep breeds, as is The Knitter's Book of Wool. While you don't have to spin something a certain way because it's a specific type of wool, the yarn will probably fight you less if you try and keep breed properties in mind when you work with it.
Also important to know is that there are many different fiber prep methods that you can spin from, and that these can also affect the quality of the yarn you make. Batts make for very floofy woolen (as a style of spinning) yarns, and combed top, which a lot of people call roving, makes for a more even worsted (again, a style of spinning, not a yarn weight) yarn. You can even spin wool straight from the lock, but generally you don't get into that advanced a form of fiber madness until a few years in.
Lastly, and most essential-- remember that you're going to drop your spindle. A lot. There will probably be swearing. Tears and recriminations may factor into things. The first couple months or so will make you wonder if it's really worth all that trouble, when you can barely manage to get yarn to hold together while practicing Park-and-Draft. But for me, that first awkward swatch of fabric knitted up from my first skein of yarn convinced me to keep going, because it was something I had produced from the ground up.
Five years later, I'm still spinning.
There's a lot more about spinning that I haven't covered, but I think that hits the salient points.
tl;dr-- Get a decent spindle, don't use crappy fiber even if it's cheap, listen to what the fiber wants to be spun like, and don't be afraid to screw up when you're starting off, because it's just fiber.
I love the energy! Very ambitious, and they actually came out nicely. If I may suggest, there are two sewing books that made all the difference for me:
Sew Everything Workshop by Diana Rupp. Enthusiastic, gorgeous pictures, clear instructions and lots of included patterns perfect for beginning sewers. Seriously can't say enough good things, and I still refer to it all the time. http://www.amazon.com/Sew-Everything-Workshop-Step-Step/dp/0761139737
Colette's Sewing Handbook by Sarai Mitnick. This one is all about the little things that make a big difference. Not as good a resource for getting started, but shows how to really plan your project well and make it a success. And I LOVE the patterns she includes. https://www.colettepatterns.com/books/colette-sewing-handbook
I think this one is the largest and most comprehensive (free) guide but there's a few other free beginner's books too. How to Crochet for Beginners, 16 Quick and Easy Granny Square Patterns, How to Crochet - A Guide for Newbies
My first sweater experience was with Elizabeth Zimmerman's great, clear instructions for an easy basic sweater in this book. I'd highly recommend it.
All the best!
Thanks! I used this book: https://www.amazon.ca/AmiguruME-Make-Cute-Crochet-People/dp/1454703970/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1465158798&sr=8-1&keywords=amigurume
got little relatives? Big Book of Knitted Monsters
super cute, but requires some dpns and a little patience
Thanks, but the link turns up an error. Is this the book in question?
Unicorns, Dragons and More... https://www.amazon.com/dp/949164324X?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
You're totally fine using a variety of manufacturers. I would suggest keep the plies and fiber the same though. That will make for a more consistent look across the shawl. Different fibers (or fiber blends) will stretch and drape very differently, which could result in a very wonky shawl when you go to block it.
If you are interested in how fiber and ply affect the final product, I'm totally obsessed with Clara Parkes Knitter's Book of Yarn. It will make you feel totally prepared to choose yarns beyond the pattern recommendation.
I second this, especially with such a varied selection. I have checked out every crochet book from my library system and have bought some that I find myself repeatedly checking out. Others I check out to get the basics, then look up online when I need a refresher because then you at least know what questions to ask. Sometimes, like the tunisian or filet crochet, you may find that you just don't like the style and you've bought the book for nothing. Better to test the waters at the library first.
As for "a more comprehensive lesson" blog posts and you tube videos are better than books for that. Like those stitch guides will give you the basics, but only briefly, then use those basics to build on more complicated stitches. They will use short hand and graphs, assuming you know them already and if you don't you'll be flipping back and forth to reference.
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Short answer: the less money you spend on books that you might not need, the more you can spend on yarn ;)
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In case you're curious, here are some books that I would recommend. But realize, these are all reference manuals for ideas. They all have the basics on how to do things, but I keep them around because I don't follow patterns often, but I mix and match for my own styles. Pattern books are 100% useless to buy for me, it's rare that I'll make a specific pattern more than once so better to look online or check out.
Crochet Stitch Dictionary
Granny Square Book
Around the Corner Crochet Borders
Beyond the Square Crochet Motifs
https://www.amazon.com/Deerskins-into-Buckskins-Brains-Soap/dp/0965867242/ref=mp_s_a_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1542063960&sr=8-2&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=tanning+hides&dpPl=1&dpID=513MHSX5GKL&ref=plSrch
I was advised to get this book. But I haven’t done my first hide yet.
If your niece has shown an interest in learning, then it's more likely that she will have the patience to give it a go. You could start with some super simple little motif patterns - stuff like this maybe. If she enjoys that, then she could move up to those cute kits you got her. I think I started when I was about 8, and would have had no problems doing those kits. Probably the hardest part is learning to count and space your stitches.
I was perusing this book of cast-ons and bind-offs at a local knit-group the other day and it's really pretty awesome. If you're an Amazon Prime member, it's free for kindles.
Get Maxine Rosenthal's book. It's really fantastic for getting started.
Super Cyd was created using basic body pieces from the book AmiguruME by Allison Hoffman.
I'd recommend some books like Sew Everything Workshop
There's also books by Singer and I believe Readers Digest that quite thoroughly cover the basics of sewing. I have the Singer's Sewing Essentials which I believe was quite inexpensive.
Also, as far as your pattern goes, there is a glossary showing what each symbol or term means, and if you are stuck on one in particular, post it and I'm sure one of us can help =)
buy this book and spend a day or two reading through everything. it teaches you more about sewing than about how to thread the machine (although it does teach you that too!) there's beginner patterns in the back, a guide to reading real patterns, a checklist of supplies you need, a way to fix common hiccups that you will come across, all about different stitches, different needles for what fabric, all about fabric, etc etc it is a great resource and the projects in the back are a great way to get your feet wet and get sewing!!!
Do you have a Kindle? Free Book with 16 Granny Square Patterns :)
I found a free crochet ebook on amazon. 16 granny square patterns
I'd recommend picking up a sewing book that comes with patterns, like the Colette sewing Handbook or BurdaStyle Sewing Handbook
I have both. The Colette book is laid out kind of like a lesson plan where you sew all the projects in order, and they gradually introduce new techniques. They cover a lot on fitting, but not a ton on modifying the pattern to look different.
The BurdaStyle book is laid out in a more "traditional" way, so all the reference stuff is at the front, then they move onto the patterns. The book has great details and ideas on changing up the patterns to suit your preference.
I also picked up Gertie's New Book for Better Sewing recently, which if you're into vintage style clothing, I'd recommend you pickup later on. (it's a more intermediate-level book, so I would recommend working on other patterns first.)
I built the pattern from this cross stitch book:
https://www.amazon.ca/gp/aw/d/1910904384/ref=ox_sc_saved_image_2?smid=A1DT36E5O0B045&psc=1
I bought myself a machine, some fabric, these two books, scissors, and some other miscellaneous supplies.
The Reader's Digest book is a really good idea since the back has a decent section on tailoring, and is full of useful information on everything else you'll need to know. There are probably also some books specifically on tailoring; check your local library.
Practice making straight lines on a piece of lined paper before you start on cloth. Getting your lines straight is super important.
Everything after that is just practicing.
Crochet only has one T :)
I got this book for amigurumi: https://www.amazon.com/Amigurumi-Knits-Patterns-Cute-Mini/dp/1589234359
It's great for learning a lot of techniques like short rows and different types of increases and decreases!
Book
The first hide I tanned I have about 16 hrs into it. Once you figure it out you can get it down to about 8-10 hrs. I use lye for my buck solution and eggs and sesame oil for the dressing.
Pics
i know the scraper is rusty I just hit it with a brillo pad and soap before I use it.
For the record buckskin is like a suede leather that adsorbs water but will also dry soft it is machine washable and to dry it you just let it air dry. Tanning to get deer hides into leather you basically soak the hide in a tannin solution for a few weeks to several months and then soften
Hi and welcome! We have a pretty good wiki with a lot of resources for things like hook sizes, types of yarn, how to read a pattern and links to blogs. I suggest creating an account on Ravelry.com, too. There you can keep track of your stash and projects, as well as getting new patterns and ideas.
There are also lots of books. I particularly have and love Stitch'n'Bitch Crochet: The Happy Hooker
What about å book with a lot of small patterns, like https://www.amazon.com/Mega-Mini-Cross-Stitch-Awesome/dp/1910904384/. Or make a "kit" with some of the great patterns from; https://parvumautomaton.wordpress.com/welcome/free-patterns/star-wars/
Just thought I'd let you know that OP said they got it from this book:
https://www.amazon.com/Unicorns-Dragons-More-Fantasy-Amigurumi/dp/949164324X/
I recommend The Happy Hooker (http://www.amazon.com/Stitch-Bitch-Crochet-Happy-Hooker-ebook/dp/B00ESCURFY/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1397488757&sr=8-1&keywords=happy+hooker). Also, check out tutorials on youtube or your local yarn store probably has classes if you want to learn in person.
This book is my absolute favorite for new and interesting square/circle/triangle/hexagon patterns. It has both the written instructions, a chart, and a picture of the finished square.
The same author has a book of crochet edges which I also really like.
My favorite general stitch book is this book. It also has the written instructions, chart, and a picture of the finished stitch. I have the older version, but this one looks the same but with more patterns.
As already mentioned, youtube is a GREAT place to physically see the stitches being done if you get caught up. Good luck!!!
I like all of the answers so far- my only other recommendation would be a good fabric chalk set or marker. As far as thread, I've found for me that most of the thread I buy depends on the fabric I'm using, with the exception of white and black. I still have some pink and green thread I bought to start with but have never used since I haven't made anything with matching fabric.
If you're interested in any books, Sew Everything Workshop is super helpful.
Anyways, good luck and have fun!
(edited for grammar and formatting)
This is how I join new yarn to avoid having knots. BUT you can just knot it if you have a side that wont be seen.
Typicaly the loop method you mentioned you leave a long 6 inch tail that you would crochet over but when doing FP/BP you cant do that.
I'd recommend this book. It covers everything from start to finish.
http://www.amazon.com/Deerskins-into-Buckskins-Brains-Edition/dp/0965867242
I came across this cute, free Halloween pattern by Allison Hoffman the other day. She is well-known for her dolls, especially modeling them to look like characters/celebrities. I totally recommend her book "AmiguruME."
The pattern I linked is for a little girl trick or treater and 3 outfits to dress her up as. Very simple, but sweet!
Edit: Link to her book! I bought it the week it came out last year and love it. Lots of customization: choose male or female; head shape; pick and choose facial features/hair styles; so much variety in the clothing/shoe options too! It's basically set up like a choose your own adventure book. :)
Yikes, I just went to try this and all the dresses available on amazon.ca are the fast fashion/low quality type that I just can't dig :\ I don't wear jeans/trousers/slacks/shorts because I find them uncomfortable, so I need me some robes! I'm gonna make my own dress robes.
I recommend buying the book, as there are a ton of tips for everything from choosing fabric to arranging your blocks and super easy-to-follow directions, but if you google "one block wonder," there are a bunch of blogs dedicated to this pattern and those are also really helpful.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/1571203222/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_FJciDbBFKY84Y
Deerskins into Buckskins
For starters I'd recommend the Knitter's Book of Yarn and the Knitter's Book of Wool, both by Clara Parkes. Both are incredibly informative and have some great patterns to boot. I consider both of these required reading for anyone even remotely serious about knitting.
If you want to get really serious about wool, the Fleece and Fiber Sourcebook goes into crazy detail about the different breeds of sheep and the wool they produce. This book is extreme though, covers a lot of things that you probably would never encounter at your average LYS. It's more geared towards spinners than knitters.
Perhaps not specific to your problem, but somewhat related: One of my favorite resource books is the Knitters Book of Yarn by Clara Parkes. If you ever want to learn about the makeup of all fiber types, why some are scratchy or why wool felts, what makes for good durability or why your tightly-spun yarns tend to bias when knitting stockinette, this is for you. It also includes 40 patterns written with certain fibers in mind. It's changed the way I think about choosing yarn for all my knitting projects. I'd highly recommend it!
I just got this book. It has every bit of info you need. Warning; tanning doesn't seem to be something that is quick or easy.
I had to sign in and follow the link to the Canada store, but it worked from there!
Direct link to the Canadian version is [http://www.amazon.ca/How-Crochet-Granny-Square-Patterns-ebook/dp/B00N21327M/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1412227999&sr=1-1&keywords=How+to+Crochet%3A+16+Quick+and+Easy+Granny+Square+Patterns] (here).
This book has been in my Amazon cart forever, I finally bought it and made a Mr. T for my dad's birthday!
http://www.amazon.com/AmiguruME-Make-Cute-Crochet-People/dp/1454703970
It's something I really wanted to do and I thought it would be nice to be able to make toys for my daughter, also meant less time playing video games which is probably a good thing. I taught myself from videos. I started with Crocheting 101 and followed that to learn the stitches. The videos go nice and slow, teach you how to read a pattern and have a little project to make at the end of each one.
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I then started watching Sharon Ojala's videos. She makes some really nice little projects (as well as big ones) and goes through it step by step. She has written patterns as well so you can follow the videos and practice reading the pattern.
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/r/crochet and /r/Amigurumi are really friendly and helpful. I've learnt a lot from there too and people often post some nice patterns you can follow. And the Goblin is from this book. I'm working on that Dragon next. Give it a go :) it's taken me a while to get the hang of it (I only get a little bit of time after my toddler is a sleep) but once you've learnt the basic stitches you can make all kinds of things.
I love this book - it has all sorts of little motifs, including country flags! If they're too small for your coaster, you could do a block of four stitches for every single stitch in the pattern.
Mega Mini Cross Stitch: 900 Super Awesome Cross Stitch Motifs https://www.amazon.com/dp/1910904384/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_gSqCCb44N0VRX
I knit my first scarf with the pattern from this book. (Which happens to be the best name for a guy's knitting book ever).
It's something great to do while watching TV. Just avoid drinking and knitting. I can show you exactly where on my projects where I had a little too much to drink...
I was going to go "Wait, I thought there was a book on that." Then I realized the book is on knitting.
It does look rather interesting though.
http://www.amazon.com/Knitting-With-Balls-Hands-On-Modern/dp/0756622891
Here is the desktop version of your link
2 books that have helped me very much:
https://smile.amazon.com/Increase-Decrease-Step-Step-Technique/dp/1612123317/
And https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/1603427244/
I use youtube all the time too, but once I've seen a technique, these books stay near me while knitting. Also, they work when the internet doesn't. :D
It's from Amigurumi Knits by Hansi Singh. There's a ton of cute patterns in it.
Not that I know of. I got it from this book. I also bought this one. I think the projects in the second book are a lot cuter.
EDIT: FOUND IT!
Thanks! All patterns are from this book written by Rebecca Danger. I find her patterns very straightforward and simple!
https://www.amazon.com/Knit-Flatter-instructions-youll-sweaters/dp/1617690171/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1368252978&sr=1-1&keywords=knit+to+flatter
HAPPY BIRTHDAY~ This day will now be marked on my calender at home, as your birthday~ Never again will you lack gifties and loves on your birthday, cause seriously, not cool at all!!!
this is nothing I need, but something I want desperately... I would goofy smile for weeks over this
My brain just about exploded when, in reading Knitting Without Tears, EZ suggested not wrapping yarns in Fair Isle/Intarsia.
400 Knitting Stithes because knitting!
I got it on Amazon. Here's the link.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/949164324X/ref=cm_sw_r_em_apa_i_TlZSCb2GTZJHJ
If you're looking for info on tanning it on your own, I've been told by many people that Deerskins Into Buckskins is the best book for it. :)
I'm a lady, but I'm always looking for patterns and whatnot to knit for my boyfriend. It's hard. Knitting is incredibly skewed towards women. One of my friends got me the Knits for Nerds book, and it's awesome, except that every pattern is made for women. I don't want a ladylike browncoat. I want a knitted replica of the regular, Malcolm Reynold's browncoat. Maybe a version with optional darts for my boobs.
My LYS recommended that I pick up Knitting with Balls for patterns. I haven't done it yet (not a lot of expendable income), but she said it has great patterns.
As far as notions and whatnot... I also have had little success finding supplies that aren't extremely feminine. For needles, there's a brand called Karbonz in black/steel colors. I haven't had the opportunity to try them yet (again, not much expendable income), but have heard nothing but good things.
I hate to agree with WoollySocks, but it's true that some things are just gender-skewed. I've pretty much accepted that I'm going to be treated differently when I go shopping for tools, because I'm female. I'm going to have trouble finding work boots. It is, for me, about quality of product, rather than accessibility for my gender. I would advise not straying away from Knitpicks. I think that Knitpicks is the best inexpensive yarn store out there (that I've found so far, anyway), and it would be a shame for you to lose access to their products. They have a wide and reliable rainbow of wools, and their colors are fairly uniform across fibers (as much as they can be).
Don't be discouraged, we are all here for you!
Non-mobile: This book also has a lot of good pictures and explanations
^That's ^why ^I'm ^here, ^I ^don't ^judge ^you. ^PM ^/u/xl0 ^if ^I'm ^causing ^any ^trouble. ^WUT?
The majority of it wasn't hard, it was just tedious. Most of the patterns were from this book but I had to modify certain elements. The hair was the biggest pain, but that's because every strand has to be threaded through the scalp and there are hundreds of hairs.
If you're a beginner who has never made amigurumi before you might want to try some other patterns first, but I didn't find it too hard, just time consuming.
Do you mean Knit to Flatter? From your recommendation, I searched for the book and that's the one I found.
I found a copy of Knitting Without Tears by Elizabeth Zimmerman at the used bookstore for ~$3! It's been on my Amazon wish list for awhile now, so I was super excited when I saw it on the shelves.
A bit. I used the instructions from the Amy Herzog book, Knit to Flatter to add some shaping.
https://www.amazon.com/Knit-Flatter-Instructions-Youll-Sweaters/dp/1617690171
Stitch 'N Bitch Crochet: The Happy Hooker https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00ESCURFY/ref=cm_sw_r_other_apa_i_K4GvDbZKYXAC2
This one has a few pages of zig zag cables, and a decent variety otherwise, but I always recommend having a few different ones since no two ever really cover the same ground, and no one is truly comprehensive. If you have a bookstore or LYS, flipping through them to find one who writes them out in a way you can understand is also a really good bet.
lol. If you like that kind of thing, I recommend this book. https://www.amazon.com/Big-Book-Knitted-Monsters-Mischievous/dp/1604680091
She has a ton of cute designs; also check her Ravelry page. The paterns are mostly pretty basic (basic stitches, basic round knitting skills) and can be adapted to make whatever you want.
* The Sewing Book by Alison Smith
$13.42 is as close as I've got.
Both Vogue and Readers Digest have pretty good books that cover a majority of techniques. That will cover the basics, but if you think she would like something a little more fun and less textbook-y, you could try this and this. The authors both have blogs that I follow, and I really like them!
Gertie's book is wonderful, I've been able to learn so much from it! She also has a blog.
A few years ago I taught myself how to knit. I have a collection of yarns and needles and my mom gave me my grandmother's old knitting basket. I'm a department manager at my work and I'm knitting scarves for the people in my department to wear at work during the winter. If any of you dudes are interested in picking up knitting give this book a shot.
If she does a lot of work with children this is awesome and so is this or basically anything in the 20 to make series.
Edited to add: you might also try asking over in r/knitting for ideas.
Sorry I didn't reply sooner, I've been super ill!
But, anyway, here is the book: http://smile.amazon.com/Cast-Bind-Off-Step-Step/dp/1603427244. I really highly recommend it. I've used it over and over and it isn't too expensive. The kindle version is only 2.99 and the spiral bound is just over 10 bucks!
Wasn't real hard. I got it out of this book http://www.amazon.com/Amigurumi-Knits-Patterns-Cute-Mini/dp/1589234359
but I changed the eyes a bit, to give it that Greyjoy feel.
Sorry I'm super late to reply--holiday weekends! In commercial yarn it can be hard to find a lot of variety in terms of types of wool. Anything not specifically labelled Merino is likely to just be "wool pool" wool. It'll be a blend of lots of different sheep/breeds that conform to a type & quality profile. These wools are usually coarser than Merino, and cheaper because of it too.
If you can find it, Shetland or Corriedale are wools I've seen in commercial offerings that I think are good for sweaters. I'm personally knitting an Aran sweater out of my handspun Romney wool. If you're interested in learning more about the different options, I highly recommend checking out this book!
I have this and it's just under £10 on Amazon:
400 Knitting Stitches: A Complete Dictionary of Essential Stitch Patterns https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/0307462730/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_PhPEDbXMXMP34
[This book] (https://www.amazon.com/Knitting-Without-Tears-Easy-Follow/dp/0684135051) helped me a lot. Also it helps to have a person teach you one on one if you can find someone to show you.
I taught myself using this book: https://www.amazon.com/Sew-Everything-Workshop-Step-Step/dp/0761139737
It goes through the basics pretty well and I still use it as a reference.
Thanks, it really isn't too difficult, there are a bunch of tutorials online and this book has good instructions with pictures. Picking the fabric is probably the hardest part, mostly because I was ordering online and I had to get a bigger rotary cutter to go through 6 layers of fabric.
I could go on :)
Very good progress!
I'm a lady but my fave knitting book is Knitting With Balls: a hands on guide to knitting for the modern man. You might like it!
http://www.amazon.com/Twinkie-Crochet-Goodies-Fashion-Foodies/dp/0740797581
physical copy price seems a bit high, but that's the book...
I asked for a set of pom pom makers, a yarn winder, a nice-looking yarn tote, a set of blocking mats, and some awesome crochet books!
For me there are several ways that knitting is interesting. First, it's something repetitive that I can do to soothe my mind and actually have a useful product at the end (using double-pointed needles provides just the right amount of mental stimulation). Second, it's a fascinating topological exercise how a string can get turned into a complex, 3D object, like a sock. Third, cables and lace and designing custom-fitted objects are interesting engineering projects, especially when you take into account the various personalities of the different kind of fibers you can use. (This type of knitting is very mental and not at all soothing, especially when you lose track of where you are or drop a stitch.)
Scarves and hats are boring. My next project (after I finish the mittens for my daughter) is a torus from this book. The fractal shawl also looks interesting. :)
Historically, at least in some places, knitting was unisex, especially among fishermen, who had their own cable patterns in their sweaters to make identifying their bodies easier if they drowned at sea.
We need more men who knit, as well as young women, to break the stereotypes.
I already had Tardis' pattern, you can get it here https://cloudsfactory.net/10th-doctor-and-rose-tyler-doctor-who.html
Ladybug comes in this book I just bought https://www.amazon.com/Mega-Mini-Cross-Stitch-Awesome/dp/1910904384
I think it’s this one? Unicorns, Dragons and More Fantasy Amigurumi: Bring 14 Magical Characters to Life! https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/949164324X/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_j1y8CbYBVY423
This is the book: http://www.amazon.com/Knitters-Book-Yarn-Ultimate-Choosing/dp/0307352161/ref=asap_bc?ie=UTF8
Cheer up buttercup! It stinks that you didn't get to tell him the way you wanted, but you're safe and healthy and going to have a BABY!
Are you a knitter, perchance? Because if you are, this looks adorable. Or what about a precious little sock dog? Oh, and there's an owl too!
The shapes here are from this book. When I have done all of the shapes in it I am moving on to this book.
Technically, it’s a work I progress since I’m making a whole square of motifs. But I got the design out of here.
I have this book and love it. There is even a section with just vegetables. I'm a sucker for stuffies.
On mobile.
Book about yarn - if you like diving into knowledge!
The Knitter's Book of Yarn: The Ultimate Guide to Choosing, Using, and Enjoying Yarn https://www.amazon.com/dp/0307352161/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awd_3.aNwb10BQCV
If you want to know about something google it and the word techknitter. Amazing blog - so much knowledge - hard to navigate.
Medallion Mitts from Knitting with Balls.
Twisted rib for cuff, medallion cable.
Yarn:
Queensland Collection Merino Spray,
Navy
Absolutely! I'll update the link when I have a chance or post a new question/post with a link to the pattern. I'm sure myself and a lot of people in r/knitting will tell you to start simple. Everything is knits, purls and then variations. The book I got is 400 Knitting Stitches by Potter craft. For a while I just dug through patterns I liked, read through them and if I couldn't figure out a stitch, I used youtube videos. I think this is one of the most complicated things I've made so far. I was stuck on scarves for the longest time, so don't worry. You'll get the hang of it!
I bought this book awhile back. Everything in it is so cute and fun :)
Slip One, Knit One, Purl
Cadence building, Swish, Swish, Tap
Needles fly, all done.
I got the pattern out of this book:
Unicorns, Dragons and More Fantasy Amigurumi: Bring 14 Magical Characters to Life! https://www.amazon.com/dp/949164324X/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_5uMRCbVFEVPHD
Wait, so do we pick one between part 1 and part B? Or do we do both, but part B has to be math OR pie? I'm just confused because in the stipulations you say "the item" so...I don't wanna break rules!Alright, confusion has been cleared up.
Part 1: Someone will most likely find something better, but just in case, this yarn is 3.18.
Part 2: Bear with me here...this book relates to math. How? Because it's a bunch of different-shaped crochet motifs (pieces that you join together for different stuff). So there's things with 3 sides, or 5 sides, or like 18 sides! (I haven't looked at the book, but this may be technically possible). And there's circles, so really, this is the most pi-related thing ever.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0965867242/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o05_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
The Fleece & Fiber Sourcebook is recommended for all spinners. It's $25 so slightly over your budget but it's well worth it. My local library has it but I still want to get my own copy.
Every knitter or spinner could use another project bag. There's hundreds on Etsy to choose from. Keep in mind that some of these listings are made to order so read the description.
Indie dyed fiber makes a great gift. FriendsinFiber on Etsy has fairly inexpensive combed top and rolags.
Woolgatherings has some fiber you can probably get for under $15 with shipping. Undyed fibers in their natural color are very beautiful too.
Hipstrings has some very unique blends. Don't buy any cotton by mistake.
There's plenty of other fiber sellers on Etsy. Make sure to get her fiber that's specifically marked as suitable for spinning. There's much lesser quality fibers for felters mixed in there. Since she is a beginning spinner, get her wool.
You could also get stitch markers or extra knitting needles if she likes having lots of projects going at once.
Hah. This was also a suggested title.
Here is the mobile version of your link