Growth

The best way to learn something is when you have to teach the "something" to someone else or when you are put on the spot and you don't have other choice than to buckle down and do it. The latest chance I had to learn lead me to the path of obtaining a few new books for my knitting library. So far, my library contains most sock books out there--I love knitting socks. They are fast and easy. I also own the set of Treasury Books and they are the most used books in my home. Recently, I acquired a few more books that have become indispensable and that will get read better than any textbook I read back in college.

These are the titles I got:

Sweater Design (recommended to me by Kathy Norris..thanks Kathy!)

Designing Knitwear

Sweater Design in Plain English

Teach Yourself Visually Sweater Design

My goal is to learn a bit on the construction of sweaters and tops. So far, I have learned a bit on the shapes of the body and the type of tops that flatter each type of body. The books are packed with information that will keep me occupied for the next few months. 

In addition to the books above, I am patiently watching the eBay posts for The Principles of Knitting, although I could buy the book with the excuse that I have purchased more expensive textbooks, I am waiting patiently for a good priced one on eBay. However, I have heard rumors that the publisher is planning to release the book again in June of 2008. I may wait...but if I see it cheap (enough) I will probably succumb.

What are some knitting books that you can't live without, not so much pattern books but reference books.

Lastly, a picture of NyNy and her birthday cake. She takes her cake seriously...if it is in front of her and it is her birthday, she wants it all! No need to push her face into the cake, she does it herself :).

Have you heard? Noro Kureyon is now available in sock yarn weight! Squee!!! I have been good...hopefully Santa has been keeping track of the dishes I have done this year and puts a skein or two or three in my stocking this year :).

Comments

[LizAndrsn]

I've heard others mention "The Principles of Knitting" with awe an reverence. What is the allure of this book?
I surely hope the publisher re-releases this book and puts everyone without out of their misery! I lucked into a copy years before I learned to knit -- for about $2.50. I had no idea what I was purchasing at the time, but knew that at some point I would need it. Much like the ball winder I purchased for the same amount.

[Jeannie]

Yeah, I want a copy of the Principles of Knitting too. I am not willing to pay that much for it. I stalk ebay myself.

NyNy is adorable. I notice that you put a santa on her cake (I assume since she was born in December). My youngest was born just a few days before Christmas, and he came home from the hospital in a large red fluffy Christmas Stocking. Only his little head was sticking out of it (all December babies were sent home in one at that hospital). He was the best Christmas gift I ever received!

You are an awesome designer and a knitting/looming rock star. I give you permission to buy that book. Go for it! : )

huggz!

[Laura]

What a cute picture! Try this website - www.bigwords.com. It'll search various bookselling websites for the best price on that knitting book you want.

[Kathy N]

Principles of Knitting is THE knitting reference to have. I remember being shocked of the high price tag when it first came out. I believe it was about $35.00 new at the book store. I didn't buy it - STUPID me!! Luckily the local library has a copy that I can check out if I want/need to. But like you, I keep an eye on the ebay auctions while hoping for the re-release.

I hear you on the addiction to sock books as well as sock yarn.

[scoutj]

I just posted a few new books but they aren't sweater books. And damn you for telling me about the Noro sock yarn!

[Jennifer]

I really like my Barbara Walker Treasuries. I also like my Knitting from the Top book.