Entertainment Weekly: The Must List
CNN - March 28 2006
"Smoking," crocheting, and eight other things we recommend this week:
6. "Stitch 'n Bitch Crochet: The Happy Hooker," Debbie Stoller A seamless treat for madames and misters alike, this nifty new guide in the best-selling series lets home couturiers crochet their way to funky chic, with needles 'n puns galore. [more]
One skein fits all projects in book
Bangor Daily News - March 28 2006
At last - the book knitters and crocheters have been waiting for. It's "One Skein: 30 Quick Projects to Knit and Crochet" by Leigh Radford and published by Interweave Press. It solves the problem of what to do with a single skein of yarn and answers the question: "What do I do with leftover yarn?" All of the projects in the book require just one skein of yarn, and six of the projects make use of whatever is leftover from other projects. This, my friends, is needlework heaven, indeed.
In the book's introduction, Radford writes that she "was challenged and inspired by what I could do with a single skein." For this book, she found plenty to do - from scarves, to leg warmers to gloves and even knitted cupcakes. I'm not sure why one would want to knit a cupcake, but mysterious, indeed, are the imaginations of those tangled up in yarn.
Those who seek instant gratification will love this book and want to take it everywhere. It's the kind of book that offers so many good projects, you can't do just one. The ones that grabbed my attention were the tank top knit in silk-wool blend yarn on No. 8 needles, fingerless mitts worked side to side instead of from the wrist up, a baby's bolero knit in cotton and styled with a dear little eyelet motif on the back, an asymmetrical knit cardigan sized for toddlers to 10-year-olds, and an assortment of small, crocheted bags.
Most of the projects are easy enough for a beginner, but they also will appeal to veteran knitters and crocheters. [more]
Don't putter around, tackle an argyle knitting project
Anchorage Daily News - March 28 2006
Plaid is back! You might not recognize it as a plaid because it is on the diagonal and it's called argyle. Argyle is everywhere ... on sweaters, socks, purses and even mittens and hats. The retro look of this knitted intarsia pattern is very trendy. But argyle presents one of the most challenging of knitted projects, even to an experienced knitter.
It is thought the origin of argyle is from diagonal strips of tartan plaid that the Scots used for footwear. That version of footwear evolved to become knee-high socks that are worn with the traditional Scottish kilts.
It is debatable how the argyle sock pattern was introduced in this country. The most likely source was the rather comical-looking golfing attire -- typically shown as the plaid tam, or hat, sweater-vest and knee-high socks. [more]
Hookers, your time has come
The News & Observer - March 25 2006
Crochet has been waiting for the sassy freedom of the Happy Hooker.
For years, crochet was the pesky younger sister of knitting, toddling along behind, trying to imitate everything Big Sis did --sweaters, ponchos, you-name-it -- but not doing any of them well. Every now and then she'd win some attention -- like with that Martha Stewart poncho (though, let's face it, that really looks like a blanket, doesn't it?) -- but mostly she was rewarded with a pat and a "Isn't that just darling! A toilet-tissue cover shaped like a Southern belle, bless her heart."
Debbie Stoller, who liberated knitting in 2003 with her book "Stitch and Bitch," decided it was time for little sister to join the party.
Yarn is the DNA that strands the sisters together. But, like sisters, knitting and crochet differ on important matters: the tools used to loop the fibers together, the kind of fabric they make, the best designs to flaunt their best features.
"Crochet and knitting really are quite different," Stoller says. "They are two different ways to achieving two different outcomes."
Knitting is accomplished by looping a whole row of stitches in various ways. Crochet is constructed one stitch at a time. "Think of crochet stitches as like little Lego blocks," Stoller says.
"In a way, [crocheted] lace is very kind of architectural," says Stoller. "I think really the strength of crochet is that it incorporates lots of air into the designs." [more]
Knitting: Think color, texture, fun
The Pueblo Chieftan - March 12 2006
I'm here in defense of knitting.
I know. You think only little old ladies knit. You think it's the ultimate in stodginess; boring with a capital B. You can't imagine anything you'd rather do less than sit around, clacking two needles together and fighting with an obstinate, ever-tangling ball of yarn.
I won't try to change your mind. But I'd like to tell you about the revolution in my knitting world. His name is Kaffe Fassett and he's an American-born painter now living in London whose designs can be found in expensive knitted garments, high-end dinnerware and bed linens, tapestries and needlepoint pieces, ballet and theater costumes. His designs - inspired by flowers, Oriental carpets, tile mosaics, African glass trade beads, ancient textiles, Victorian teapots - are employed in a line of quilt fabrics that were featured in a catalog I get.
...Then I discovered a book of Fassett's knitting patterns and learned that the expensive dinnerware and bed linens and quilts and quilt fabrics bearing his unusual name and characteristic stamp all are offshoots of designs he created as a beginning knitter. He wanted to translate the colors he used in his folk art-style paintings into the craft of knitting; he wanted to bring color into a world dominated by the gray, brown, cream and black of natural, undyed wool.
Best of all, Fassett, the teacher, assured me that technicolored knitting is easy and not only for the highly skilled. I believed him. What did I have to lose but my boredom? [more]
Book Review: One Skein: 30 Quick Projects to Knit and Crochet by Leigh Radford
M&C Books - March 11 2006
You might be a fiber junkie if your yarn stash threatens to spill out of three closets and flood the living room in a riot of color. We all have bought a skein or two of different yarns simply because we couldn’t pass up the bright jewel color, the texture was yummy or the price was simply too good to pass up. Now what do you do with these lovely treasures?
Thanks to Radford’s new book the horizons have expanded beyond hats, although some nice hat patterns are included here. Radford presents some easy felted projects, just perfect for the beginner to get their hands wet so to speak including innovative bowls and a nice clutch bag. [more]
The Pink of Perfection - New Crafty Video Blog
MAKE - March 3 2006
The Pink of Perfection is a great crafty video blog showing you everything from making cheap and easy napkin rings to designing your own wall stencil art. I love the video recap of the recent Knitting Olympics. [more]
Stitchcraft
A new television show for knitters airs its first episode this Sunday, March 5, at 3 PM EST/2 CST
Stitchcraft follows Adina Klein, Fashion Director for Vogue Knitting and Editor in Chief of Vogue's knit.1 magazine, and host Lily Chin, the world's fastest crocheter and renowned knitting author, as they go "behind the stitch" to explore and connect to a world of high-fashion knitwear designers.[more]On set at Vogue Knitting and knit.1 photo shoots, Klein features the designs of Anna Sui, Michael Kors, Adrienne Vittadini, Cynthia Rowley, and James Coviello and shows how to keep one step ahead of the trends by employing knitwear design elements incorporated in these designers' current collections. Host Lily Chin imparts plenty of knit wit throughout the show in the form of "Lily Tips" -- time-savers and advice for all knitting skill levels culled from her years of experience."
New magazine targets youthful, stylish knitters
Anchorage Daily News - February 21 2006
A recent survey by the Craft Yarn Council of America found that the age group most interested in knitting and crocheting was 25 to 34. Participation in that age bracket jumped from 13 percent in 2002 to nearly 33 percent in 2004, more than a 150 percent increase in two years. Today, one in three women, or more then 33 million, knows how to knit or crochet. Add the men who knit and crochet, and it is obvious that the market has grown in the past 10 years.
Companies are beginning to respond to that young demographic. Fresh ideas, bold designs, bright colors and quick-to-knit yarns are the pattern preferences of knitters ages 18 to 35. Interweave Press and its editor Pam Allen responded with a new magazine geared to youthful fashion enthusiasts who are into knitting. Knitscene ($7.99) has all that young, hip knitters will want and more.
The premiere edition of Knitscene features many beautiful sweaters, accessories and even sweater coats by well-known designers. Yarns both fancy and luxurious, are worked into contemporary styles. All designs have easy-to-follow instructions. [more]
African knitwear designs pay homage to black culture
Anchorage Daily News - February 7 2006
Since 1926 Americans have set aside time to celebrate black history, first called Negro History Week and finally Black History Month. Educator and historian Carter G. Woodson chose the second week of February as the perfect time to focus on the culture, history and stories of black Americans.
...The soon-to-be released pattern book "Knitting Out of Africa: Inspired Sweater Designs" (Interweave Press, $24.95) offers knitwear as homage to black cultural traditions. Danish designer Marianne Isager brings the beauty and richness of African-inspired textiles, basket designs and carpets to the American knitter. Fabulous designs showcase the traditional geometric and animal patterns using finger-weight yarn.
Sixteen patterns and charts for adult sweaters include complicated knitting techniques. Entrelac, double knitting, intarsia, domino and Fair Isle will offer challenges to the more advanced knitter. Isager has worked the techniques into both traditional designs and highly contemporary styles that are truly works of fiber art. She offers inspiration and helpful hints, including detailed instruction for each technique used, to create your own African-inspired sweaters and vests. The patterns are well written with clear diagrams and charts.
Inspired by visits to the British Museum in London, Isager traveled to Africa to research the textiles firsthand. I was a bit disappointed that the book couldn't offer us the background of each African regional motif, but it was clear that this author was more intent on the translations than the history. [more]
Book Review: Knitting Out of Africa: Inspired Sweater Designs by Marianne Isager
M&C Books - February 6 2006
Isager has taken her interest in African textile and basketry patterns, first in museum and later on from African travel and used it to create this collection of 16 sweater designs. Where possible, background information about the original design source is provided along with a general garment construction synopsis giving the knitter a quick peek at the skills required to complete the project.
All the sweaters are knit using fingering weight yarns so expect intricate detail not instant gratification Most patterns have at least two fully detailed, step by step, “real people” sizes. Some of the designs appear to be fairly challenging as they make use of diverse knitting techniques such as entrelac, slip-stitch, steeks and double knitting and it is here that one appreciates the clear “how to” sections. Knitters unfamiliar with cut and sew construction may find the courage to try it, particularly with Mali, an intricate pullover inspired by mud-dyed fabrics that is knit completely in the round. [more]
Knitting out of Africa - Book Review
BellaOnline
Preconceived notions are, as a rule, not very reliable. This proved true once again as I waited for my pre-release copy of Knitting out of Africa by Marianne Isager. When Interweave Press contacted me with their list of new releases, I read the title of this one and thought to myself, “black and white geometric shapes on sweaters… whoopee.” But I told them I’d be happy to review the book because there are sure to be readers at Bella Online who love black and white geometric shapes in their knitting.
Well if you’re going to be wrong about something… you may as well be *very* wrong… and I was! While there are some black and white sweaters in here and certainly lots of geometric shapes, this book is completely original and exciting with its use of African designs. Marianne Isager incorporates such techniques as entralac, slip stitch, intarsia, stranded knitting and even double knitting. The colors range from black and white to gold, blue, russet, purple, turquoise, tan and even pink. You won’t be bored working on these patterns. [more]
Dare to share a square for chance to win book
Bangor Daily News - January 17 2006
W ant to win a copy of "Dyeing to Knit" by Elaine Eskesen? Knit or crochet your fanciest, most colorful or most wildly patterned 6-inch square from a washable material such as cotton or acrylic. Designs should be worked fairly tightly and not include open work. The names of those who send a square will be entered in a drawing for the book. Be sure to include your name, address and phone number.
... Elaine Eskesen, the author of "Dyeing to Knit," is the owner of Pine Tree Yarns and lives in Damariscotta where she has for many years engaged in the art of hand-dyeing yarn.
"Any knitter can learn to dye," she writes. In the book, she lays out the dyeing process before the reader, presenting information about color relationships, dyeing procedures, the design phase and patterns for knitting.
"Knitting," she writes, "is now being augmented with a more creative approach ... it is a creative outlet, and learning to dye your own yarns is another way to engage in this art form."
[more]
Book Review - Bead Knitting by Julia Pretl
BellaOnline
Bead Knitting : A Complete Illustrated Guide and Video by Julia Pretl is exactly what it says it is. Complete and exhaustive information about how to knit with beads. Not the little garter stitch swag bags, but pictorial images in knitting.
I admit, I'm not the world's greatest knitter, I learned to do the little knitted swag bags because I thought they were so pretty, but there is a big difference between doing just panels of knit stitch only with beads creating the swags between stitches, and actually knowing anything about how to purl and knit and increase and decrease.
So I was a little worried that it would be entirely too complex and confusing for me since I'm not a knitter. I shouldn't have been, I should have trusted Julia knowing how fine her work and instruction is.
The book explains it all in wonderful detail with great patterns, graph paper, and tips and references for creating your own patterns. The illustrations of how to do stitches are very clear, I almost understood them. Where I got confused, there was the video, which shows it step by step and slowly enough and close enough to really see what she's doing and explaining. [more]
Beginner book helps develop knit wit
Bangor Daily News - January 10 2006
If your New Year's resolution is to learn to knit and-or crochet, "Maran Illustrated Knitting and Crocheting" may be the only book you'll need to move out confidently onto the Yellow Brick Road of needlework. There are several reasons for this. The book is set up like a textbook. Its aim is to show, step by step, how knitting and crocheting are done. This is not a coincidence. Maran is a publisher of professional, trade and reference books.
Close-up, full color photographs of real hands doing the real steps of knitting and the real steps of crochet are another reason the book will appeal to learners.
... On the whole, however, the book achieves what it sets out to do - to serve as a tutorial for knitting and crocheting, and as a reference book after one has mastered the basics and moved on to more advanced projects. [more]
DVD encourages knitting learners
The Daily News - January 10 2006
Learning how to knit can be a solitary process -- just you with one of the slew of how-to books in craft stores or some free online instructions. I taught myself in September with a Klutz kit, but every experienced knitter I've asked has mentioned how important it is to watch others engaged in the craft.
Enter "The Art of Knitting" DVD and its sequel, which includes crocheting. Both go over the basics of knitting -- from casting on to purling -- and indeed, I found that watching some maneuvers "live" is much better than trying to decipher images in a book: Slipknots are so simple now!
...The DVDs also include resources such as lists of knitting organizations, magazines and a stitch library. But frankly, they aren't readily usable, unless you can print from your TV screen. Each DVD does come with a few printed patterns -- although the videos don't go into much detail about actually doing the projects.
The production quality of the DVDs is poor at times, and a doctor discussing injuries calls knitting a sport (huh?), but given that each DVD offers more than three hours of comprehensive info, these shortcomings can be overlooked. [more]
The Knit lit is for everyone
The Salt Lake Tribune - Date
Now that the holiday decorations are put away and the wrapping paper is recycled, it's time to sit back and relax. No better way than to cuddle up with a blanket, a good book - and a ball of yarn. As knitting and crocheting have exploded in popularity, the publishing industry has responded with shelves full of new books and magazines.
Here's a sampling that might keep you busy until the next holiday season:
...After you've honed your skills with the DVDs, put them to the test on the Three Piece Cashmere suit in Mother of Purl, by Edith Eig, self-proclaimed "knitting guru to the stars" (Collins, $19.95); or the Sherbet Scoop Neck Pullover in Designer Knitting with Kitty Bartholomew (Sterling/Chapelle, $24.95). Eig's book is a nice blend of trendy and timeless works and includes a good section of detailed instructions, while Bartholomew's focuses more on classic styles. [more]
Two knitting DVDs get two thumbs up
The News Sentinel - January 2 2006
Two new knitting DVDs by Tricoast Studios are becoming quite popular among children, teens and adults. This week, we put both DVDs to the test. They are "The Art of Knitting" and "The Art of Knitting and Crochet 2."
Cost and where available: Suggested retail price: $19.99 each. We found both DVDs at Michaels Arts and Crafts. Check other locations for availability. "The Art of Knitting" DVD is available for $15.99 on Amazon.com. Both are available at www.yarnmarket.com for $24.80 each. [more]
Knit your own Scarlett Johannson scarf!
WebIndia123 - January 3 2006
...The book 'Mother of Purl: Friends, Fun and Fabulous Designs at Hollywood's Knitting Circle' has been penned by knitting expert to stars, Edith Eig, who had made the scarf Scarlett Johannson knitted in 'Lost in Translation'.
French-born Eig knitted the famous blue scarf for her friend Sofia Coppola's hit film, and now the pattern features in her new book.
Eig said that Scarlett couldn't learn knitting, but Sofia became such a big fan of the art that she started including it in all her films. [more]
Knitters spin a new volume of yarns
The Mercury News - December 25 2005
Knitting is one of the few handcrafts that is solitary and social. The act of knotting wool or silk or cashmere into designs simple and spectacular creates a mixture of physical pleasure and spiritual comfort.
Linda Roghaar and Molly Wolf, editors of the KnitLit series, know this. Their current installment, ``KnitLit the Third'' (Three Rivers Press, $14), brings the knitting experience to life with more than 70 personal knitting stories grouped under headings such as ``What's in my head?'' ``Who's in my life?'' and ``What's in my basket?''
There is Charmian Christie's binge knitter confession and Barbara Fornoff's ``things one should not do while driving.'' Marilyn Webster knits a shawl for her estranged partner and reveals a woman tender and wise, and Corey Mesler's intimate observation of his wife as she knits is refreshing. Elliott Carpenito takes us through the painful wait for a newly adopted son, with knitting his only comfort.
Knitting is described as obsessive, maddening, artistic and healing. It begins as something every young woman knew how to do, disdainfully devolves into ``women's work'' and is reborn as the ultimate stress-buster. It is a skill sometimes forced, sometimes coveted, but always deeply personal. [more]
Funky fashion stocking stuffers
City of Merced Newspaper - December 22 2005
From the weird to the wonderful, sometimes it's the smallest things that stack up to the biggest smiles during the holiday season. This year the fashion forward will love digging deep into those stockings stuffed with amusing treats that are sure to entertain everyone on your list.
...If you have a knitter on your holiday list, how about whipping up a pair of "fried-egg earmuffs" or fanciful lingerie or a flapper-style nightgown? Yes, you can do this in a flash, according to Rachel Matthews, who has been a leader in the knitting craze lately. Her book, "Knitorama" (MQ Publications; 2005; $16.95) is delightfully inventive and features easy directions for countless, quirky things to knit. [more]
Sex, Saints, and Exorcisms: BookFinder.com Unveils Top 10 Out-of-Print Books of 2005 [news release]
PR Newswire - December 20 2005
..."Looking at demand for out-of-print books is a great way to tell what
people are interested in when they're not swayed by marketing campaigns. This
year we want to read a little bit of everything," reports BookFinder.com
founder Anirvan Chatterjee. "America has more then just Sex on its mind.
Readers are seeking out books on politics, history, religion, and knitting."
The top 10 most sought after out-of-print books in America in 2005, as
compiled by BookFinder.com ( http://www.bookfinder.com/ ), a search engine
used by millions of readers:
5) The Principles of Knitting (1988) by June Hemmons Hiatt; Methods and
techniques of hand knitting, the ultimate resource [more]
Skimmings
The Arizona Daily Star - December 18 2005
..."The Knitting Way" doesn't break any new ground, but strings together bits of other self-help philosophies and applies them to the art of knitting.
Written by two longtime knitters, one the founder of the legendary Patternworks mail-order company, the book pushes knitters to rediscover knitting. It tries for warm, cozy and personal to get the knitter back to appreciating the craft. [more]
Knitting up a storm
Northwest Herald - December 15 2005
A dizzying array of knitting books are available, thanks to the recent knitting craze.
Yet finding a book that fits your skill level and interest can be difficult. Books that will challenge beginners may be perfect for more experienced knitters. We decided to ask the experts.
The Cultured Purls of McHenry County Knitting Guild graciously offered to share recommendations for some of their favorite knitting books. Many of these are for more advanced knitters, but, as they explain, some would be good choices for beginners, too. Here are books they recommended... [more]
Crafts books range from bizarre to whimsical
The Enquirer - December 13 2005
There is always one person on your list who is difficult to shop for: the one who appreciates a bit of edge and humor in her life or who buys a new end table at the furniture store and takes it home and spray paints or decoupages it. For folks like this, try one of the following book titles that are far from ordinary.
...Knitorama: 25 Great & Glam Things to Knit, by Rachael Matthews (M Q Publications, $16.95 paperback). Enough with the ponchos already. Instead, take a cue from Matthews, the English knitting queen. This bouncy book delivers whimsical patterns for knitted speaker covers, a flapper nightgown, shoelaces, fake food and oodles of other goodies. [more]
Book Review: Knitting Vintage Socks by Nancy Bush
Monsters and Critics - December 12 2005
Nancy Bush has sorted through countless old patterns from the Weldon’s Practical Needlework series, first published in the 1880’s, culling, rewriting and updating the old instructions to fit the needs and materials of the contemporary knitter. The resulting twenty sock patterns are classics in every sense of the term and show once again that what once was old is new again. What made a sock special in the late1800, early 1900’s continues to delight both the knitter and recipient today. Lovely textures and attention to detail make this collection stand out from the pack and shows why vintage never really goes out of date. [more]
Crafters, have presents in mind
The News & Observer - December 10 2005
OK, back away from the foam tree. Put down the glue gun and rickrack. Good. Now get your scissors and a pen -- we have a tiny bit of work for you to do.
Chances are that while you were busy crafting Christmas presents for everyone else, other folks were slacking off. That means they have no idea what to get for you. We're here to help.
You probably have a good idea of what crafty goods will make you happy. But just in case you haven't had a chance to look around for yourself, we've rounded up a few:
..."Compassionate Knitting" and "Mindful Knitting" by Tara Jon Manning (Tuttle). A thoughtful approach to knitting that provides meditation exercises to accompany simple projects.
"Second-Time Cool" by Anna-Stina Linden Ivarsson (Annick Press, 2005). A sweater book for non-knitters, this Euro-cool book shows how to turn thrift-store sweaters into totes, ties, skirts, wrist warmers and more. Great for teens or other ultra-hip humans. [more]
A few pearls for knitters
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel - December 10 2005
A big book of knitting patterns offers promise and hope for the lapsed knitter, the bored sweater-maker and the harried holiday-sock stitcher.
Even if we never make the designs, they stick with us, lying in wait in our subconscious, until the day we are slogging through a straight sweater to add to the kid's dwindling wardrobe, when we are suddenly inspired to try this twisty stitch thing we saw in a pattern book a few months ago.
In a book of 40-odd patterns, count on at least six or seven that will turn you off utterly, designs that score high on the Ugh Scale. But another half-dozen may turn you around, encouraging you to see knitting in a new light.
Some knitting books can be exercises in vanity for a single designer. Some are trying to push particular brands of yarn or yarn-makers, creating designs with materials that cost more than your monthly mortgage payment. [more]
Author offers pearls of knitting wisdom
Roanoke.com - December 9 2005
The knitting craze is far from over. Just ask Blacksburg's Margaret Radcliffe, whose new book, "The Knitting Answer Book," is one of the many how-to-knit guides hitting bookstore shelves.
The book, a chunky reference guide that bills itself as the print version of a 24-hour hotline for knitters, recently was released by Storey Publishing ($14.95).
It includes diagrams of common knitting techniques and covers all manner of knitting issues, presenting them in a question-and-answer format.
"Especially after 9/11, there was the feeling that people wanted to get back to home crafts," said Radcliffe, 50, who works days as manager of Virginia Tech's Center for Coal and Energy Research. "I know I started cooking real meals for my family again." [more]
Stitchers on your gift list? Boon of books will help
Bangor Daily News - December 6 2005
For those who stitch, books about needlework are welcome holiday gifts. Books recharge our batteries, offer new spins on old ideas and introduce us to new techniques we want to try. If your holiday gift list contains names of those who love to mess around with yarn and fabric, maybe one of these books will do:
"Dyeing to Knit" by Elaine Eskesen. The author and owner of Pine Tree Yarns lives in Damariscotta where she has for many years engaged in the art of hand-dyeing yarn. "Any knitter can learn to dye," she writes. She lays out the process before the reader, presenting information about color relationships, dyeing procedures, the design phase and patterns for knitting.
"Knitting," she writes," is now being augmented with a more creative approach ... it is a creative outlet, and learning to dye your own yarns is another way to engage in this art form."
[more]
Season's readings: books to give knitters
Seattle Post Intelligencer - November 26 2005
Knitters seem to be clicking away everywhere you look.
They knit baby sweaters and afghans coming and going on the Bainbridge Island ferry. They knit through concerts and meetings. It's a rare audience that doesn't have a knitter with her lap and hands full.
Some knit shawls or hats for cancer patients. Others make blankets for needy babies, or warm scarves and hats for merchant mariners unaccustomed to cold weather. And really special friends knit socks for friends who are knitting impaired.
Among the more glamorous knitters are Sarah Jessica Parker and Kristin Davis, who knitted their way through "Sex and the City."
And, as with any contemporary activity, there are books about it. Here's a small sampling of those worthy as gifts [more]
Knitting book drops names
The Seattle Times - November 25 2005
...So it is that a new book on knitting, which has been at least a temporary passion of actors ranging from David Arquette to Felicity Huffman, should be as much about name-dropping as it is about necklines.
Cruise Edith Eig's "Mother of Purl" for tips on drop stitches, and you'll find them. Eig, the owner of L.A. shop La Knitterie Parisienne, is a practical and detailed teacher. (About those necklines: "Always use a circular needle no longer than 16 inches when knitting a neck," she advises.)
Yet you also learn, if you hadn't already, that child star Dakota Fanning "takes pride in knitting a scarf for each of her leading men" and has been at the hobby since she was 7. "Parker, Sarah Jessica" is in the index below "paint chip palette" and above "patterns." And get this: Sarah Michelle Gellar is a quick learner on the purl stitch.
The book (HarperCollins, $19.95) contains more than a dozen quick stories about Eig teaching celebrities, and 100-plus pages of patterns and instructions — with photos of the scarves, tank tops and sweaters draped around C-listers like Christopher Gorham of "Out of Practice" and Carolyn Hennesy of "Curb Your Enthusiasm." [more]
Media & religion: A look at recent books, music and Web sites
The News Sentinel - November 23 2005
"The Knitting Way" by Linda Skolnik & Janice MacDaniels (Skylight Paths Publishing, 192 pages, $16.99)
Slow down and connect. Play, enjoy, and above all, truly experience everything.
"The Knitting Way" doesn't break any new ground, but strings together bits and scraps of other self-help philosophies and applies them to the art of knitting. [more]
Knit something warm
The Oregonian - November 22 2005
Knit something warm for a small furry friend For the last several years the truly hip have been knitting. Nowadays, the truly hip also have small dogs. Happily, someone has put together a book of great knits to make for your small dog.
"PuppyKnits: 12 QuickKnit Fashions for Your Best Friend" by Jil Eaton (Breckling Press, $13.95, 89 pages) has some great sweaters and accessories to make for your pint-size pet. All the patterns are designed for small dogs, such as Pomeranians, pugs or small terriers. [more]
Briefs from the Upper Peninsula
Duluth News Tribune - November 20 2005
A Finlandia University fiber arts student will have her design for a knitted purse published in a book this spring.
Lindsey Aarness originally received word in mid-August that her design submission for Creative Knitting Magazine had been rejected. But a few weeks later, the magazine's publishers told her they were putting together a new book, "Family Album of Knits," and wanted her design. [more]
Finlandia knitter translates jukebox to cashbox with design
The Daily Mining Gazette - November 19 2005
Perhaps there's something to be said for beginner's luck, at least in the world of publishing.
Finlandia University senior fiber arts student Lindsey Aarness will have her design for a knitted purse published in a book this spring, an auspicious start for this first-time designer.
"It's very exciting and I can't wait for it to come out," she said.
Aarness originally received word in mid-August that her design submission for Creative Knitting Magazine had been denied.
"I thought, well, that's to be expected since I'm kind of new to all this," she said. However, a few weeks later, she was informed that publishers for the magazine were putting together a new book, "Family Album of Knits," and wanted Aarness' creation. [more]
Easy, fast way to learn how to knit with The Art of Knitting DVDs. [news release]
UCW Entertainment Newswire - November 19 2005
Everyone’s doing it. Celebrities are doing it. Kids are doing it. Teens are doing it. Even yuppies are doing it. What the heck are we talking about? Knitting! No longer a dirty word reserved for the elderly, knitting is fast becoming the hippest, hottest pastime around. 36% of American women know how to knit or crochet. Knitting grew more than 150% since 2002. And we’re not talking a bunch of grannies. The largest growing group? Women ages 25-34! And there are 6.5 million of them. How’s that for unconventional? The second fastest growing group? Senior Citizens? Heck no! It’s young ones aged 18 and under! There are 5.7 million of those! That’s a whole lot of yarn. And the pastime is showing no signs of stopping.
Forget the hokey doilies or the hideous toilet paper covers that your Grandma made for you. We’re not talking about that Birkenstock-wearing, hippie-esque hemp sweater-wearer or that hideous Christmas sweater that made Bridget Jones want to vomit. No, we’re talking high style, gorgeous fabrics and designs that you would see at Fred Segal or Barneys. Afghan throws to die for. But, it won’t cost you a fortune and you have the satisfaction of it being a one-of-a-kind (insert your name here) original.
So, now that you know this valuable information, how do you join the trendy set and learn how to knit? The #1 knitting Dvds in the country, The art of knitting dvd and The art of knitting & crochet 2, is your answer to beginner and intermediate knitter’s paradise. Join the fashionable group who have embraced this art. Everyone from Julia Roberts, Gwen Stefani, Sarah Jessica Parker, Cameron Diaz, Hilary Swank, Daryl Hannah, Madonna, Winona Ryder, Goldie Hawn, Courtney Cox and many, many more. Chock full of everything you need to know to begin knitting and making a hat, scarf or other pattern immediately, this Dvd is the most user-friendly guide around. Even if you’re a Knit Wit or Knit-for-Brains, you can learn how to knit and begin in hours, not weeks. This is no Ma-and-Pa, granny on the porch Dvd. This is a modern, slick guide using the top experts around. Learn from Vogue Knitting’s Carla Scott; Knitter-to-the-stars Jennifer Wenger; hot, young swimwear designer Ashley Paige; J. Paul Getty Museum’s educator Zhenya Gershman; Crochet Guild of America President Nancy Brown; and best-selling author Bernadette Murphy, and others. [more]
Knit one, relax two
Nashville City Paper - November 15 2005
Want to cross stress as well as gifts off your list this year? Try crafting.
Creative activities calm and focus the mind, relax the body, boost mood and provide an opportunity to express feelings, wrote Nancy Monson in Craft to Heal: Soothing Your Soul with Sewing, Painting and Other Pastimes.
...Repetitive and rhythmic crafts like knitting can be done alone or in groups and can evoke a relaxation response that reduces anxiety and depression, according to Monson. [more]
Magic of color, creativity collide in knitting guide
MaineToday.com - November 6 2005
In "The Rural Life," a small wonder of a collection of essays that go far beyond provincial rustic ruminations, New York Times writer Verlyn Klinkenborg considers sources of creativity:
"You leave traces of yourself with every decision you make, every fence you build, every tree you fell or plant," intimating on a broad scale the image of individual inventiveness we each manifest in some way.
That appeal to personal vision is inherent in Elaine Eskesen's beautiful book. It even impelled me to buy yarn and needles from her Damariscotta shop and attempt a knitting project, my second (the first, a never-completed pair of argyle socks for a college boyfriend some 50 years ago).
"We are a close community of knitters," Eskesen tells me over the phone, "eager to share, experiment."
Indeed, walking into Eskesen's Pine Tree Yarns, one is caught up in the atmosphere of a home well-lived-in, imbued in a vibrant and subtlely satisfying aura of color and texture, the yarns she dyes herself, the garments hung on walls, in baskets, examples of projects for the new or experienced knitter to ponder. [more]
Pet project: Knitting for furry friend
Philadelphia Inquirer - November 4 2005
If you've knitted more fuzzy scarves than you have friends to give them to, maybe it's time to branch out. Knitting for Dogs: Irresistible Patterns for Your Favorite Pup - And You! (Fireside Books, $14.95) offers ideas for putting those needles to work for your canine companions. [more]
Knit one, purl two, woof woof!
The Indianapolis Star - October 29 2005
Here are a couple of pet-related holiday gift ideas.
• If you've knitted more fuzzy scarves than you have friends to give them to, maybe it's time to branch out.
"Knitting for Dogs: Irresistible Patterns for your Favorite Pup -- And You!" (Fireside Books, $14.95 softcover) gives ideas for putting those needles to work for your canine companions. [more]
New Preston Knitter Heads for Hats
Litchfield County Times - October 27 2005
Cathy Carron, author of the freshly-published book "Hip Knit Hats," might be viewed as a lifestyle therapist, especially when she offers the message that "knitting makes you slow down a little bit," and says, "You have to be a little bit meditative." [more]
Read the whole article to get some interesting information about her upcoming book, Our Boys Need Sox.
Get closer to stardom with knitting guru
Chicago Sun-Times - October 25 2005
In Hollywood, out-of-control partying is so 2004. Apparently, what is cool these days is parking oneself with a ball of yarn and knitting needles.
Out Nov. 1 is Mother of Purl: Friends, Fun and Fabulous Designs at Hollywood's Knitting Circle (HarperCollins, $19.95) from Edith Eig, Los Angeles' "knitting guru to the stars." Eig, who's become a celebrity solely for her dealings with celebrities, gives real-world readers the same tips she shares with former "Sex and the City" star Kristin Davis and pre-teen It Girl Dakota Fanning. [more]
Creatively capture owner/dog look
The Cincinnati Post - October 22 2005
Now that November is coming, some dogs might need weather-protection. This is where pet-owners with knitting needles can cast on and come up with a pearl of a doggie poncho, capelet or pair of disco dog legwarmers to protect a mature pooch's poor, arthritic joints.
Knitting in coffee shops, yarn stores and knitting groups became one of the hippest hobbies, even for celebs and big, tough athletes a few years ago. Knitting on behalf of a furry companion is a worthwhile reason to keep on clicking those needles, short of embarrassing a dog, of course. Even foo-foo faux pooches might blush at wearing some knitted togs in public, say, a pink poncho or one with sequins or fringe.
Well, it's up to each dog's human companion to pick something with dignity. It's fun to browse through all the ideas in "Knitting For Dogs: Irresistible Patterns For Your Favorite Pup - And You!" (Fireside/Simon and Schuster; November, 2005, $14.95 softcover). Author Kristi Porter provides more than 20 easy patterns of canine coverings and accessories for dogs and the knitters who love them. [more]
Knit a gift for your pet pooch
Akron Beacon Journal - October 22 2005
If you've knitted more fuzzy scarves than you have friends to give them to, maybe it's time to branch out.
Knitting for Dogs: Irresistible Patterns for your Favorite Pup -- And You! gives ideas for putting those needles to work for your canine companions. [more]
New 'zine fills knit niche: the next generation
Bangod Daily News - October 18 2005
Size will be the first thing readers will notice about Knitscene, the new magazine from Interweave Press, which hits newsstands today, Oct. 18. The magazine is an inch narrower and 2 inches shorter than regular size magazines. Its unconventional size signals, perhaps, the kind of knitters and crocheters the magazine is courting to become its audience - the new generation of needleworkers between the ages of 18 and 35. This group, according to a Craft Yarn Council of America tracking survey, jumped to 33 percent from 13 percent in the last two years. These are women on the go, women who dash to and from college classrooms, rush off to corporate jobs or balance the roles of breadwinner, mommy and wife with a deftness akin to that of a juggler. Knitscene is the perfect size to tuck into a briefcase, backpack or totebag. Or even a big pocket.
The new generation of knitters, says magazine editor Pam Allen, who also edits Interweave Knits magazine, are revitalizing the craft ... they are style-conscious women bored by mass retail uniformity and want more personal expression in their knits ... [they merge] techniques, incorporating embroidery, sewing, crocheting and even beading into their knitting.
What Knitscene lacks in size it more than makes up for in content. The premiere issue of Knitscene contains 44 projects for "making, living and dreaming." [more]