Category Archives: Uncategorized

A Textile Traveler’s Guide – Peru & Bolivia

Posted on by under Color Knitting, Historial knitting books, Travel, Uncategorized

 

Peru_cover

A Textile Traveler’s guide Peru & Bolivia – Cynthia LeCount Samake

After my long hiatus, I’m happy to review this 150-page book packed with useful information written by my friend, Cynthia LeCount Samake. It was recently published by Thrums Books with Linda Ligon at the helm (of Interweave fame). I’ve been to both Peru and Bolivia with Cynthia many times and as I read the book, it was like taking a trip down memory lane.

Before you travel to Peru or Bolivia or both, this is a “must-have” book to review and pack in your suitcase. You can find everything from “getting there” to favorite hotels to affordable restaurant choices. Basically everything you might need to navigate both countries. It’s like having your personal travel advisor at your fingertips!

Am I keeping this book? How could I not! I feel like it’s part of my history and one that I could refer to again and again.

Peru_bcover

Peru & Bolivia – back cover

After my long hiatus, I’m happy to review this 150-page book packed with useful information written by my friend, Cynthia LeCount Samake. It was recently published by Thrums Books with Linda Ligon at the helm (of Interweave fame). I’ve been to both Peru and Bolivia with Cynthia many times and as I read the book, it was like taking a trip down memory lane.

socks

Colorful socks hand knit from a Peruvian market

Be sure to look for colorful textiles at various markets. You’ll find newer textiles as well as vintage pieces. Most are one-of-a-kind irresistible textiles including socks, hats, woven pieces and bags.

Cynthia

Cynthia LeCount Samake

Cynthia has the “street creds” to write this book. Her many trips to both countries has made her an expert. I was so happy to see so much practical information included.

njt_hat

Have a true cultural exchange!

Cynthia makes good suggestions on what to bring to give as gifts to people you’ll encounter as well as appropriate ways to give them out appropriately. Sharing your skills with others is a great way to immerse yourself into the culture. The photo on the lower right was taken on one of my trips to Peru. I was showing a knitter one of the hat I had knit.

Dying

Chinchero dying workshop

Even if you are not a knitter or weaver, a day at the village of Chinchero dying yarn outside over an open fire is a memorable experience.

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Machu Picchu

Everyone who goes to Peru wants to visit the famous Machu Picchu. It’s an obvious choice, but you’ll find at the end of your trip it won’t be the only memorable part of your visit. Below are an amazing array of colorful hats from a market at Machu Picchu.

Bolivia

Bolivia Highlights!

I’ve spent much of the the review talking about Peru, but Bolivia is an “not-to-be-missed” experience. Shopping for textiles in La Paz is a treat. Be sure to read the information on Artesania Sorata started by American, Diane Bellomy.

 

 

 

Weekend Knitting – Melanie Falick

Posted on by under accessories, Accessory projects, Cardigans, Color Knitting, home decor, Shawls, sock knitting, Sweaters, Uncategorized
13_mags

Magazines Out!

I spend time this past week in the 90 degree heat in my office revamping and decluttering. This group of 13 magazines are now sadly gone, but I feel lighter!

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Weekend Knitting – Cover

I love Melanie Falick’s work and that must be why I added this book to my library. This beautifully photographed book was published in 2003 by the imprint where Melanie worked. Now that I’ve got ruthless, I can see that it’s got to go.

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Weekend Knitting – Back Cover

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Chair Cushions – Kristin Nicholas

As soon as turned to this page, I knew that these were Kristin creations! She has a colorful style that is not hard to spot. Love these, but I would never make them.

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Egg Cozies

Cute idea, but my least favorite project. I’m not sure that anyone even eats eggs this way any more.

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Fingerless Gloves

Ok – now for my favorite project! I love the idea of fingerless gloves with actual fingers. Most of the ones I’ve made just end at the knuckles with a bind off.

scarf

Brioche Scarf

Caitlin

Perfect Pie Shawl

I’m including the above 2 pics which are modeled by Caitlin Fitzgerald. If you’ve never heard of her, just Google her name. She’s now an acclaimed actress and dated Aidan Turner (of Poldark fame). My interest in Caitlin is personal. I did work with her Mom – knitting designer, Pam Allen. Also, Caitlin did a short internship with me at Lion Brand. She’s a great gal and I’m thrilled that she’s succeeded in her career.

books

Knitting in Literature

The book did add some unique touches such as a list of books that feature knitting plus a recipe for cookies and hot chocolate plus a side bar on making tea.

Melanie – thanks for your great books! The knitting world is a better place because of them.

 

 

Knitting Circles around SOCKS!

Posted on by under accessories, How-to info, Uncategorized
Knitting_Socks

Knitting Circles Around SOCKS

When I picked up this book, I thought – OMG! I’d never knit socks on circular needles. Why do I have this book? First opinions are sometimes not accurate. Read on….

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Knitting Circles around SOCKS – back cover

Antje Gillingham turned out to be a very detailed author with in-depth explanations. This 80-page volume was published by Martingale in 2007.

photo_illus

Casting on illustrated photos

I’m not usually a fan of photos used to illustrate steps, but these were really good.

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More step-by-steps

You really understand how the two-at-a-time socks are worked once you get past the casting on.

basic_sock

Basic Sock Pattern

I like the way that Antje begins with basic socks and then incorporates more complex socks as the book progresses.

instruction

Pattern Instructions

The pattern instructions are clear and easy-to-follow.

cabled_sock

Cabled socks

Another pair of socks to master once you have done the basic pattern.

author

About the author

The book has a column flap with an interesting bio of the author.

So what’s the verdict? I think the book is well done, but doesn’t need to be on my book shelf. If you want to give working two socks at the same time, I say – give it a whirl! Not me!

 

More Last-Minute Knitted Gifts

Posted on by under accessories, Accessory projects, Cardigans, classic sweaters, How-to info, Kid's designs, Pullovers, Sweaters, Uncategorized
knitted_Gifts

More Last-Minute Knitted Gifts

Spoiler alert! I’ve already listed this book on Amazon so you know that it’s not going back on my shelf.

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Back cover – More Last-Minute Knitted Gifts

Joelle Hoverson has teamed with Melanie Falick to create this beautifully crafted book. It’s full of fairly simple patterns that are grouped by the time needed to make the gift starting with “less than 2 hour gifts”.

Pattern groupings

Pattern groupings

What else did I like about the book? I did like the number and alphabet templates. I did a project last year where I needed alphabet charts. Of course, with my many, many books – who knew?

alphabet charts

alphabet charts

number charts

number charts

There were a few projects that I really liked, but not enough to keep this book.

fingerless gloves

fingerless gloves

ribbed hats

ribbed hats

The photos of graphing were really helpful for anyone trying this technique.

grafting

grafting

My final thoughts. I loved the feel and look of this book, but my feeling for books of projects really doesn’t allow for shelf space for this one. Hopefully another knitter will find a good home for this lovely book!

 

https://www.amazon.com/Last-Minute-Knitted-Gifts-Joelle-Hoverson/dp/1584798602/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1495654342&sr=8-1&keywords=more+last+minute+knitted+gifts

Knitting Pretty

Posted on by under Accessory projects, How-to info, Kid's designs, Knit and Purl Stitches, Pullovers, Stitch Patterns, Toys & Animals, Uncategorized
Knitting_Pretty_cvr1

Knitting Pretty by Kris Percival

Another little book today. Even though it’s little, it has taken me awhile to get this into my blog. Knitting Pretty by Kris Percival (published in 2002 by Chronicle Books) is an easy to read and easy to use book. I have some negative comments, but generally it’s a nicely done  120 page volume.

Thumbs up or down: I liked the top down sweater at the end of the blog post, but most of the patterns are too simple for me. I’m going to pass on this book and keep my shelf space for more important books.

Knitting_Pretty_bc_cvr

Knitting Pretty – Back Cover

There is the usual “Getting Started” and “How to Knit” chapters

illustrations

Knitting – American Style

The American Style “How to Knit” page shown in the book has very small illustrations ( all illustrations are similar and all too small). Could you really learn from these illustrations? The next page is the Continental Style with no illustrations – yikees! Plus I wonder if a beginner would get the difference between the two styles and why to choose one over the other.

instructions

Simple Garter Stitch Scarf

After all the “How-to” pages – through page 40, the first projects were simple and noted by a “1” in a circle. Clever graphics. The instructions tell you what you need to know and what page to refer to for a refresher on the technique – very clever. I like the step-by-step numbered instructions.

mittens

Warmest Mittens – level 4

I include this project only because I’ve been working on mittens this winter and looking at various patterns. There isn’t a section which shows how to cast on and join for double-pointed needles. Not the easiest for someone who is using the book as a novice although there are lots of places where one could go to find the technique on the internet.

swatches

Simple Squares

The swatches used to check gauges have other uses. This spread talks about ways to use squares, but the patterns are a bit vague.

sweater

Simple Sweater – Level 5

Knit in the round from the top down, this is a nice sweater. It’s made in a chunky yarn which would make it a faster-to-knit project. The lack of how to knit with circular needles makes it again a bit of a stretch for a novice.

 

 

http://www.amazon.com/Knitting-Pretty-Instructions-Fabulous-Projects-ebook/dp/B00HSXBZ8I/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1459799819&sr=1-1&keywords=knitting+pretty

 

Book of Wool – the finale!

Posted on by under Accessory projects, Designing, Essays - knit & crochet, Overview of Yarns, Pullovers, Uncategorized
Book_Wool_cvr

The Knitter’s Book of Wool

It’s been a long time coming, but I’m finally done with Clara Parkes wonderful book. Before you even ask – it’s a keeper.

In this blog, I’m going to discuss Chapter 4 – blended fibers and Chapter 5 – patterns along with a bit about the end material.

Cptr4_open

Chapter 4 – Plays Well With Others

Mixing wool with fibers such as silk, mohair, alpaca, cashmere and angora bring the best of all worlds. Clara talks about blending wool for different effects. The results are wonderful for knitters.

Cptr4_angora

Chapter 4 – blending with angora, alpaca, cashmere

Cptr5_open

Chapter 5 – Patterns

Now that we know so much about wool, having patterns to use the yarn is a “no brainer”.

Cptr5_socks

Chapter 5 – socks

Wool is a natural for socks. It’s warm, it wicks and it lasts with wear.

Cptr5_pattern

Chapter 5 – Instructions

I’m always looking for clear instructions, charts and schematics. This book doesn’t disappoint.

Cptr5_charts

Chapter 5 – Charts

wash_wool

Washing Wool

How do you wash wool? Hand washing is outlined step-by-step. Good advice. The next page covers keeping moths at bay. More good advice.

resource_list

Resource List

The resources plus processors on the next spread are a great follow up to the book. The book ends with abbreviations, a glossary, recommended reading and info on the pattern designers. What a way to end the book!

wrister

Sweet Fern Mitts

My mitts are above. Notice that the one of the left is a disaster. The cables are wrong and I really wanted a few more rows between the cables (decided part way into the mitt. The right mitt is much better. I need to make another pair now that I’ve corrected my mistakes!

 

 

Book of Wool – Chapter 3

Posted on by under Essays - knit & crochet, Historial knitting books, How-to info, Knit and Purl Stitches, Overview of Yarns, Uncategorized
Book_Wool_cvr

The Knitter’s Book of Wool

The whole chapter today is on breeds of sheep broken down into five categories.

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Meet the Breeds

By the time I got from page 38 to page 78, I was introduced to more breeds of sheep than I ever imagined existed. Clara has broken them down from the finest fleece to the most course.

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Breed Categories

The chart on page 40 gives a good overview of all the breeds covered in the following pages. There are 37 types of sheep. Many were breed from combos of other sheep to refine the best qualities of the bred sheep. Lots of history throughout these pages.

cptr3_mitts

Sweet Fern Mitts

When I first started writing this blog several years ago, I thought I would make a project from each book I covered. Silly me! That lasted for one book – The Book of Yarn. When I saw these mitts – I said – why not? I’ll post a pic of my work-in-progress soon.

cptr3_additional_reading

Finewool breeds

This is an example of a spread from the finewools section. Each breed is discussed, a chart covers the facts and the chart is followed by a lock of fleece and finished skein of the yarn. This reference section makes it worth keeping the book on my bookshelf!

cptr3_longwools

Longwools

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Down wools

The final page of Chapter 3 features a list by month of various fiber festivals around the United States. There you will see many different sheep breeds.

cptr3_festivals

Fleece Friendly Fiber Festivals

http://www.amazon.com/Knitters-Book-Wool-Ultimate-Understanding-ebook/dp/B004IK8PYG/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1453411911&sr=1-1&keywords=book+of+wool

 

 

 

Book of Wool

Posted on by under Accessory projects, Overview of Yarns, Uncategorized
Book_Wool_cvr

The Knitter’s Book of Wool

A new year and a new long book! One of the first books I reviewed when I started my blog was Clara Parkes’ Book of Yarn. I read and reviewed it over a number of blog posts as it was full of information and text. It was a perfect book to cover for my “away from home in Florida” time of year. So here we go with Chapter 1 of The Knitter’s Book of Wool.

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The Knitter’s Book of Wool – back cover

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Book of Wool – Preface

What better way to begin a book about wool than with a photo of a flock of sheep!

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Chapter 1 – What is Wool?

The first chapter begins with the fibers and their make-up. Did you know that wool is a resilient fiber than can be stretched to 30 percent of it’s length and return to it’s original size? I sure didn’t.

cptr1_crimp

Book of Wool – sidebar boxes

This book (besides being full of insightful info) has wonderful called-out sidebars with extra tidbits.

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Chapter 1 – Scales and Felt

As you can see by this spread, there is lots of text to read. This will be a slow blogging book for me!

What did I learn from Chapter 1? Wool from different animals is wildly different and result in very different types of the end product – yarn.

More to come…

http://www.amazon.com/Knitters-Book-Wool-Ultimate-Understanding/dp/030735217X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1451937652&sr=8-1&keywords=book+of+wool

 

 

 

Canada Knits – The end!

Posted on by under Historial knitting books, Uncategorized
Canada Knits by Shirley A. Scott

Canada Knits by Shirley A. Scott

Today I’m happy to report that I finally finished Canada Knits. Never thought I’d finish this one! I love reading it. This book was packed with info about the evolvement of knitting in Canada, but the heavy text slowed me down.  As I remember, I ended Part 1 with Canadian Yarns.

Do I want to keep it? I enjoyed the reading and loved all the interesting photos – some black/white a two color sections. That said, it’s not a book that I really want to keep on my “forever” shelf. Sorry “Shirl the Purl”!

Here’s a photo of the Amos Little mill (that evolved into Briggs & Little). Small mills such as this one were often the advent of today’s larger yarn companies.

Amos Little Mill

Amos Little Mill

The Lux Knitting Book published in 1939 is part of the wartime Canadian effort.

Lux Knitting Book - 1939

Lux Knitting Book – 1939

Sporting life in Canada influenced knitting. Curling, imported from Scotland in colonial times, created a need for fine-gauge sweaters and hats.

Canadian Curling Team

Canadian Curling Team

Missionary work in Eastern Canada added to the number of knitters. Young girls were taught at an early age.

Knitting girls in Labrador

Knitting girls in Labrador

http://www.amazon.com/Canada-Knits-Craft-Comfort-Northern/dp/0075499738/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1444845167&sr=8-1&keywords=Canada+Knits

Knit Lit

Posted on by under Essays - knit & crochet, Uncategorized
Knit Lit edited by Linda Roghaar & Molly Wolf

Knit Lit edited by Linda Roghaar & Molly Wolf

I haven’t been hiding, I’ve been engrossed in this little paperback book called Knit Lit, Sweaters and Their Stories …And Other Writing About Knitting. I’ve had this book for a long time – it was published in 2002. It’s a subtle little book and was easy to overlook. This is a compact book with no pictures or illustrations – just stories!

I loved this book and glad that I read it. The back cover says: Touching tales, hilarious stories, moving recollections, memories of companions.  Yes, all these are covered.

The book is cleverly broken down into 4 parts with various headings in each part. The editing was really good. The writers were a mix of those who are well known in the knitting world and brilliant people who should be more known.

What did I love? I loved the knitting disaster section – burned knitting and road kill knitting. You have to read these to appreciate the writing.

I could have cried over the story call The Baby Blanket about a young woman having a baby that she gave up for adoption and many years later meets her son.

“The Peaceable Fleece in Foreign Parts” has 6 stories of knitting with a global slant.

The back has a wonderful section of all the contributors and their “creds”. I found that it was most interesting to read the story and then read about the writer made my reading experience more interesting.

I’m not giving this a thumbs down, but having read the book it’s not going back on my shelf. Bye-bye Knit Lit!

 

 

http://www.amazon.com/KnitLit-Sweaters-Stories-Writing-Knitting/dp/0609808249/ref=sr_1_2_twi_2_pap?ie=UTF8&qid=1438790107&sr=8-2&keywords=knit+lit