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Editorial Reviews
Stephanie Pearl-McPhee, the best-selling author of At Knit’s End: Meditations for Women Who Knit Too Much and celebrated blogger and humorist of the knitting world, is back! Funnier than ever, Pearl-McPhee continues her running dialogue with her knitting compatriots — cheering them on to ever-greater heights in the climb to make knitting universally recognized as THE peak life experience.
Both a celebration of knitting and a sourcebook for practical information, this book is a collection of useful advice and emotional support for the knitter. Pearl-McPhee examines essential truisms of knitting, side by side with tongue in-cheek warnings, realities, and fantasies about the act of knitting and the people who do it.
In chapters on everything from yarn needles, gauge, and knitting bag essentials to hats, socks, shawls, and sweaters, Pearl-McPhee unravels the mysteries of what it is that makes knitting click, from the inside out. She dares to question longstanding rules and uncover the true essence of what makes a hat a hat, a sock a sock, and so on. Insights into why certain techniques work encourage knitters to take control and knit in the way that works best for them. As she says, “There are no knitting police.”
The result is an illuminating, liberating (and hilarious!) look at knitting that will comfort the experienced knitter, surprise the mainstream one, and entice the beginner.
Both a celebration of knitting and a sourcebook for practical information, this book is a collection of useful advice and emotional support for the knitter. Pearl-McPhee examines essential truisms of knitting, side by side with tongue in-cheek warnings, realities, and fantasies about the act of knitting and the people who do it.
In chapters on everything from yarn needles, gauge, and knitting bag essentials to hats, socks, shawls, and sweaters, Pearl-McPhee unravels the mysteries of what it is that makes knitting click, from the inside out. She dares to question longstanding rules and uncover the true essence of what makes a hat a hat, a sock a sock, and so on. Insights into why certain techniques work encourage knitters to take control and knit in the way that works best for them. As she says, “There are no knitting police.”
The result is an illuminating, liberating (and hilarious!) look at knitting that will comfort the experienced knitter, surprise the mainstream one, and entice the beginner.
Related Reviews
I'd give it 6 stars, if I could!
Knitting Rules is a must have for every knitting library
Knitting does rule and this book rocks! What I love about Stephanie Pearl-McPhee is she allows me to combine my two favorite addictions, books and knitting. As a confirmed knitaholic and bookaholic, this book is exactly the kind of reading Im constantly looking for. I not only get to read about my favorite past-time and (this important for all you bloggers out there) I can put it on my bookshelf where I can pull it out and enjoy it again and again.
I've got nothing against blogs but there is nothing like a wonderful book, a book you read once, then go back and read again. "Knitting Rules" is full of great knitting tips, fun callouts and interesting facts. This is a book that will have turned down pages, comments in the margins and a rolled up cover. This is a book that will show how much it is loved.
I recommend "Knitting Rules" not only for your personal library but as a great gift for a person who is a new knitter or someone you are try to incite to the knit side. For those people who say knitting is too complicated,takes too long and is boring, they need to spend a little time the Yarn Harlot.
I've got nothing against blogs but there is nothing like a wonderful book, a book you read once, then go back and read again. "Knitting Rules" is full of great knitting tips, fun callouts and interesting facts. This is a book that will have turned down pages, comments in the margins and a rolled up cover. This is a book that will show how much it is loved.
I recommend "Knitting Rules" not only for your personal library but as a great gift for a person who is a new knitter or someone you are try to incite to the knit side. For those people who say knitting is too complicated,takes too long and is boring, they need to spend a little time the Yarn Harlot.
the yarn harlot strikes again!
this book is a little more technical than Steph's first two, but a must-have for any fan of her humorous celebrations of the Knitterly Lifestyle. she includes invaluable size charts, tips, tricks, and "recipes" that make are incredibly handy and make for a well-rounded set of "tools" every knitter should know. she writes in a friendly, humorous, and accessable tone that i have come to love. the only reason i give this book 4 stars instead of 5 is that, like i said, it's a bit more technical, and i prefered the personal stories and scenarios from the first books. however, if you're a Knitter-with-a-capital-K, you'll love this book!
hilarious, irreverant, a great gift and a fantastic read for beginning knitters...
i consider this book a splurge, or a great gift to get a knitting friend - especially a beginner. it answers some of the OTHER questions you may have about knitting that aren't technical, such as...
"how much yarn is TOO much yarn in your stash?"
(answer, thank goodness, is... really, you can NEVER have too much).
i am a long-term crocheter who has just entered the knitting world - as someone with an embarrassingly large stash of yarn and related books, reading this book definitely made me aware that i am not alone in my disease, and that, well, it's perfectly okay.
i also enjoy her irreverent approach to knitting (at times, tho when it comes to gauge, the chapter on how important is is, let's just say she drove that point home in her funny, funny way), especially being one who has always modified my patterns a bit and tend to find my own way to go about things (i crochet left-handed, for instance). this woman is hysterical! absolutely funny, i think i spent half an evening reading parts of it aloud and laughing with my mother as i fumbled my way through my first dishcloth while she breezed her way through yet another 4-DPN sock.
regardless - for anyone who isn't a beginning knitter, it's not a completely necessary item for your library (unless you've got the disease which makes almost any knitting book a necessary item in your library).
whether you've got the disease or not, not only will you love her running commentary on the knitting lifestyle, you'll love the cute style of the book itself, too - great layout, cute illustrations, and enough creative suggestions that you'll feel okay if you're not a by-the-book kind of person, either. just...
DO THE DARN SWATCHES, no matter what!
"how much yarn is TOO much yarn in your stash?"
(answer, thank goodness, is... really, you can NEVER have too much).
i am a long-term crocheter who has just entered the knitting world - as someone with an embarrassingly large stash of yarn and related books, reading this book definitely made me aware that i am not alone in my disease, and that, well, it's perfectly okay.
i also enjoy her irreverent approach to knitting (at times, tho when it comes to gauge, the chapter on how important is is, let's just say she drove that point home in her funny, funny way), especially being one who has always modified my patterns a bit and tend to find my own way to go about things (i crochet left-handed, for instance). this woman is hysterical! absolutely funny, i think i spent half an evening reading parts of it aloud and laughing with my mother as i fumbled my way through my first dishcloth while she breezed her way through yet another 4-DPN sock.
regardless - for anyone who isn't a beginning knitter, it's not a completely necessary item for your library (unless you've got the disease which makes almost any knitting book a necessary item in your library).
whether you've got the disease or not, not only will you love her running commentary on the knitting lifestyle, you'll love the cute style of the book itself, too - great layout, cute illustrations, and enough creative suggestions that you'll feel okay if you're not a by-the-book kind of person, either. just...
DO THE DARN SWATCHES, no matter what!
Wow!! I love it!!It has all of the usual fun of reading a Yarn Harlot book (she seriously ROCKS), as well as lots of practical advice too. Everything from how to tell what kind of fiber your yarn is made of, to three different ways to construct a scarf, also a veritable ode to sock construction....I could go on and on, but you get the idea. This is a great book!!!
Informative, entertaining, just not the easiest to use as a reference tool
as so many reviewers mentioned this is very much a book about knitting culture, but does include lots of tips and insight - about gauge, standard sizing, using various tools, and blocking just to mention a few topics the author touches on.
unfortunately, even though there is a lot of useful information in the book, it's not organized in a way i find easy to use. reading this book is more like having a conversation with someone who LOVES to knit and will pour their hearts and very knowledgeable brains out for you without hesitation. so although there are a lot of helpful charts and some illustrations, sometimes the detailed information is within paragraphs where the author is relating one of her many anecdotes. again, a very good book, but it is a bit frustrating for a beginner like me who needs projects laid out in a different way. just a small word of warning amidst the many, many, praises this book rightfully receives
unfortunately, even though there is a lot of useful information in the book, it's not organized in a way i find easy to use. reading this book is more like having a conversation with someone who LOVES to knit and will pour their hearts and very knowledgeable brains out for you without hesitation. so although there are a lot of helpful charts and some illustrations, sometimes the detailed information is within paragraphs where the author is relating one of her many anecdotes. again, a very good book, but it is a bit frustrating for a beginner like me who needs projects laid out in a different way. just a small word of warning amidst the many, many, praises this book rightfully receives
Oh, I was so satisfied with my flat knitting and big needles. I had no interest in knitting socks or fine gauge items. But the Yarn Harlot beguiled me with her seductive descriptions of the joys of hand-knit socks, so I have rushed out and purchased miniscule needles and fine gauge yarn and struggled with the sorrows of starting my first sock six times before finally making a go of it. I hate to rip out, but she freed me to feel like I can. Now, I am hooked...not because I've got a sock done yet, mind you...but because it truly is satisfying to watch these fine pieces emerge from my needles. Now I am looking for opportunities to knit in the round (sweater bodies, sleeves...) because of the Yarn Harlot's siren call. This is a fun, breezy read, and will light a fire under your knitting self to break out into new types of projects and not to fear mistakes and to try new things. I liked this book a lot! It is practical and useful, and empowered me to believe I could do anything.
There's nothing I like better than truly helpful lists and hints unless it is those same lists and hints dished up with a generous sense of humor. Stephanie had me laughing and reading out loud to my daughter-in-law and constantly exclaiming: "look at this!" while we drove to the yarn store for more supplies. So if you want a handy dandy list of typical head sizes or typical foot lengths (the kind of valuable info provided) topped off with WHO wears WHAT hats and WHY, you will love this book. The basics are addressed here, along with some fine points and finer observations that will have you consulting this book again and again. And if you want to relax and really enjoy your knitting - or your stash or your knitting thoughts (guilt-free) - get this book just to read for fun. It works either way.
I liked how she takes the seriousness out of knitting and makes it sound fun, easy and addicting--which it is. The book is full of practical tips, things to watch out for and excuses for things that don't turn out the way we meant them. It is easy reading and one learns a lot about the mystical world of knitters, their secret stashes, their obsession with texture and colors and the effects of their addiction to this hobby on friends and family, in the meantime, learn three ways to knit a sock. It's great.
This is my favorite Yarn Harlot book yet. In Knitting Rules! we actually learn the Harlot's theory and techniques for knitting. The laughs are still here in abundence but you also learn something. This is the perfect addition to any knitters library. As a fairly new Knitter the Harlot understands and explains us better than anyone else out there. Buy this book for the humor but be prepared to learn a few tricks too.
A Wonderful Addition to Your Knitting Library!
I really enjoyed this book. I am a relatively new knitter and only recently discovered the Yarn Harlot. When I heard she had a new book coming out I just had to get it, and I wasn't disappointed. This book is filled with her usual wit and wisdom and you will find lots of helpful information to go along with the humor. I hope the Yarn Harlot has more good books to come.
I was originally attracted to this just by the title but I absolutely love it. I only received it yesterday, and I've already read through it. It helped me salvage my first pair of socks; the socks were going great but I decided I didn't like the pattern after all and was at a loss on how to keep going. It's easy to read & understand and it's is an awesome source of information and tips. This is especially good for new knitters and it has already found a place of honor with my other knitting books. I know I will be referring to it often. If I could give it 10 stars, I would. It's right up there with Debbie Stoller's Stitch & Bitch
Never laughed so much about knitting
I highly reccomend this book to ANYONE who has ever attempted to knit. being a new knitter myself, I bought the book for more tips and guidance on how to actually have my knitting look like the picture in the book. I was more than plesantly surprised to find a lot of humor in this book as well. My family took turns giving me funny looks as I laughed out loud reading this book about knitting. But if you have ever picked up a set of needles and thread and attempted to make anything with it, you will appreciate this book!
Knitting Rules!: The Yarn Harlot Unravels The Mysteries Of Swatching, Stashing, Ribbing And Rolling To Free Your Inner Knitter by Stephanie Pearl-McPhee is a collection of creative, innovative, and eclectic information and commentary on knitting and yarn design. Expertly organized to provide readers easy access to essential survival skills, insider secrets, and undercover revelations for yarn enthusiasts of all levels and persuasion, Knitting Rules! offers invaluable preparedness techniques, discreet stash management practices, bushwhacking smarts for cutting pattern jungles, gauge hazards and yarn mysteries, first responder tactics to handle antagonistic non-practitioners, foolproof methods for eye-balling measurements, improvisational recipes for the resourceful knitter for socks, hats, scarves, and shawls, and much more. Knitting Rules! is very strongly recommended for all enthusiastic knitters from novice beginners to seasoned veterans for its informative commentary on the art and skill of knitting.
This book was terrific to help a newby knitter to make a great pair of socks!!! Not only does Stephanie explain everything in very plain English (which gives you the freedom to do things differently if you so choose), but she gives great directions. I relied on both to turn out my socks, using her words of encouragement to conquer the scary heel turn... It all turned out well & I am on my way to becoming a sock junky....
Fun book for the knitter in you
I have only been knitting for 1 1/2 years, and I tend to be a rectangle knitter (scarves, afghans, etc.). This book makes me laugh and want to try new things. If you enjoy knitting, you'll enjoy Stephanie's unique look at all things yarn-ish.
I am an experienced knitter who keeps running into problems with my knitting projects. I thought this would be helpful to correct some bad habits I have acquired over the years of knitting. I found the book to be so delightful that as soon as I received my copy I sat down and read through the whole thing. It did help clarify and inform me about many topics I assumed I knew all about. Best of all it taught me to knit socks which I had never attempted before. The directions were a bit vague and I had some difficulty understanding them but in the end I figured it out and came out with a pair of socks that fit my grandchild perfectly. I recommend this as good fun to read and generally helpful.
Knitting Rules is a Must See, Must Have, Must Do
Stephanie's best book yet! Very funny, very user friendly. TONS of useful advice for a knitter of EVERY skill level. Stephanie does not let us down with her newest book as she continues to entertain, inspire, and teach us. Now if only the book came on tape so we wouldn't have to give up precious knitting time! :o)
When I first started knitting again as an adult, I just happened to pick up this book. It was the best thing I could have done! It is full of basic, useful knitting information that is anything but dry (as some how-to books can be). The author's humor kept me smiling, and her instruction has kept me knitting.
One of the things I love most about this book is that she doesn't necessarily give you patterns, per se, but general formulas or recipes for making various items. For anyone who likes to work in their own designs instead of strictly following a pattern, this is a great way to learn to make things. I also love the many informative resources/lists throughout the book, like average head sizes for making hats if you can't measure the head of the person you are specifically knitting for. Those have been very helpful to me.
I give this book as a gift to many new knitters I know, and I always recommend it as a great resource to have on hand.
One of the things I love most about this book is that she doesn't necessarily give you patterns, per se, but general formulas or recipes for making various items. For anyone who likes to work in their own designs instead of strictly following a pattern, this is a great way to learn to make things. I also love the many informative resources/lists throughout the book, like average head sizes for making hats if you can't measure the head of the person you are specifically knitting for. Those have been very helpful to me.
I give this book as a gift to many new knitters I know, and I always recommend it as a great resource to have on hand.
do not buy this book for a kindle
The drawings disappear, and the charts are miniscule. Buy it in paper if you expect to make use of it. Talked to Amazon Kindle support unit about the problem of disappearing drawings but they were unsupportive, and placed the blame on the publisher. No ideas for how to rectify the problem.
I love this book. Each time I feel as if I'm about to go 'round the bend in knitting or buying knitting supplies, or hating to swatch, or hating a particular project, I read sections of the book that apply, and I'm back to feeling completely normal. It reminds the knitter that we knit because we enjoy it, so we need to stop treating it like a bad job when we get frustrated. Or just stop knitting for awhile!
Ever since being bitten by the knitting bug 3 months ago, I have been exhibiting stange new behaviour (like compulsive stashing and knitting during every waking moment) that have me questioning my sanity at times. Then I found this book. Now I realize I am part of a venerable tradition and am very proud of it. Ms. Pearl-McPhee writes with humour, verve, and great insight into knitterly folly. I laughed out loud through the book while learning the essential tricks of the knitting trade. Although I originally purchased this book as a "fun" read, it now resides on my knitting table, next to my knitting chair, as a reference book that I consult regularly. She managed to pack an amazing amount of amount of useful information in this book. Moreover, during especially stressful knitting moments, all I need to do is crack open the book and laugh myself back to some perspective. Priceless.
New knitter? Experienced knitter? Don't know the Yarn Harlot yet?
What are you waiting for??
Stephanie Pearl-McPhee is funny and fun to read in her popular blog, and her books are no different. Knitting Rules! is both a reference book and a book of knitting humor that belongs in every knitter's library!
For example, I've made a lot of pairs of socks, but I can *never* remember which side to ssk on and which side to k2tog on when doing the gusset and toe decreases. Where to turn? This book! It contains Stephanie's straightforward sock "recipe" which, if you've knitted a couple pairs and know how to get accurate foot measurements, is an invaluable tool.
The book has chapters on scarves, hats, socks, sweaters, yarn, and so much more, all interspersed with amusing "Ten Reasons" lists that any knitter can appreciate.
So stop feeling guilty about the size of your stash. Don't worry if the sweater doesn't exactly match the pattern. As Stephanie makes a point of reiterating, there are no knitting police! This book will help even the most frazzled of knitters remember that, even on the days when you want to track down whoever thought that p3tog tbl was a good idea and stab them with your size 000 dpns.
What are you waiting for??
Stephanie Pearl-McPhee is funny and fun to read in her popular blog, and her books are no different. Knitting Rules! is both a reference book and a book of knitting humor that belongs in every knitter's library!
For example, I've made a lot of pairs of socks, but I can *never* remember which side to ssk on and which side to k2tog on when doing the gusset and toe decreases. Where to turn? This book! It contains Stephanie's straightforward sock "recipe" which, if you've knitted a couple pairs and know how to get accurate foot measurements, is an invaluable tool.
The book has chapters on scarves, hats, socks, sweaters, yarn, and so much more, all interspersed with amusing "Ten Reasons" lists that any knitter can appreciate.
So stop feeling guilty about the size of your stash. Don't worry if the sweater doesn't exactly match the pattern. As Stephanie makes a point of reiterating, there are no knitting police! This book will help even the most frazzled of knitters remember that, even on the days when you want to track down whoever thought that p3tog tbl was a good idea and stab them with your size 000 dpns.
This is as good as if not better than her previous books. Lots of interesting knitting tips mixed in with the dry wit of her tales.
This is easily the best book Yarn Harlot has ever written. I've realized what i've done right and wrong all these years, and had a good laugh while i was reading it. I learned the importance of things i thought were just minor. Writing 3 books within a year is an amazing feat i can only dream of achieving. Yarn Harlot has done it and done it well.
Laughing out loud, and knitting "recipes" too!
This book begs to be read out loud, and mine certainly was -- to anyone who would listen! If you think you might be a bit crazy about your knitting and your stash, welcome to Stephanie Pearl-McPhee's world. The text rollicks along and makes you realize that crazy's OK, in fact it's fine.
If you are a knitter used to following patterns, the sock and hat "recipes" will help you to listen when your knitting speaks to you. Entertaining but practical -- a must-have for anyone who loves books and knitting.
If you are a knitter used to following patterns, the sock and hat "recipes" will help you to listen when your knitting speaks to you. Entertaining but practical -- a must-have for anyone who loves books and knitting.
A fun read as well as informative!
I expected this book to be good, with all of the positive reviews I'd read..and just as expected, it was informitive and helpful, but I never expected the book to be so funny and entertaining as well! I read it cover to cover in two evenings.
This is a great book for both the beginning and accomplished knitter. The yarn harlot offers tips on projects, information on yarn itself that I was never aware of, and tales of her experiences in knitting both hilarious and helpful. A real eye opener and reminder that we knit because we love it, and it should not be a stressful experience.
Stephanie Pearl-McPhee seems to exemplify everything I love about knitting. She understands my need to buy yarn, buy books, and dream of completing more projects than are humanly possible (because of my regular job getting in the way of my knitting!). This book is full of great hints and tips that relate to all kinds of projects. The chapter on socks inspired me to try my first pair, and has resulted in a whole new form of knitting addiction for me. Her style seems like a friend is there explaining the process to me, while illustrating the process for completing sweaters, hats, socks, etc., so that I can feel confident in changing designs to suit my desires instead of blindly following patterns.
Humorous, chatty, filled with valueable knitting information!
Don't be fooled by the casual chatty writing style of this book. Stephanie has managed to fill her book with an amazing amount of useful and necessary knitting information imparted in a humorous, and often hilarious, way! I've been knitting for over twenty years, but learned several new tricks from this book. If nothing else, buy the book for the chapter on making socks. It is worth the price for this one chapter.
This is a classic. It's funny and informative. It's great for knitters just starting out, as well as those with some experience under their belt.
This book gives you the courage and encouragement to try new things. I had always been fearful of knitting socks and her book helped me get past all that.
A peek into the world of dedicated knitters
This book was not only fun to read because it gives glimpses into the world of knitters who are close to being fanatical about their hobby, but it contains some knitting pointers which I found quite helpful. Stephanie Pearl-McPhee has a wonderful sense of humor and her book is filled with delightful sketches of fellow knitters.
The voice of Stefanie Pearl-McPhee speaks loudly through this fun sojourn into the technical side of knitting. Unlike her two previous tomes, this book includes "recipes" to create knitted objects. Chapters include gauge, scarves/shawls, sweaters, socks, hats, etc. I personally didn't like this book as much as "At Knit's End" or "The Secret Life of a Knitter," because it wasn't set up like her story-telling blog. Some of the humour felt a little forced, but I still believe this book will become an essential element to my knitting library.
Dragged out my old knitting needles to reestablish an old hobby. Bought Stephanie's book to get some fresh ideas and loved her wit, humor, and great advice. Been knitting like crazy ever since. You can't beat her basic sock pattern -- it just works. I keep trying others and end up back at her book. Change the cuffs a bit, but stay true to her instructions and you can't go wrong.
I was waking my husband up to read passages of this to him! THis is one funny knitter! I laughed all the way through and learned something to boot! Probably best for early knitters but funny enough for the advanced to get a laugh.
Stephanie Pearl-McPhee, for those who are unindoctrinated, is a witty, creative and engaging knitting author. She lives in Toronto with her three daughters and husband, who are frequent fodder for on her blog "Yarn Harlot" and in her charming and amusing books. Her books are quick reads that will leave one smiling and nodding one's head in agreement. These aren't pattern books, but rather knitting philosophy and culture books that are unmatched by other authors.
The Yarn Harlot, as the author is commonly known, not only has incredible amounts of knitting knowledge but a great sense of humor as well! I laughed out loud more times than I can count while reading this book. She is very straight forward about herself and her knitting habits, knitting mistakes, family life, etc. She's self-deprecating and freely admits she doesn't know everything (of which I am doubtful!) and her writing style is more like having a conversation with her rather than reading a book.
I love when she talks about how addicted to yarn she is, how she manages to hide her "stash" around the house, and how she rationalizes her oftentimes expensive yarn habit. I could totally relate.
And you just gotta love the "recipes" she comes up with for making items such as socks, hats, scarves, etc. I used her math to make my very first hat -- and it worked!
Her tips are easy to understand and use, her knitting philosophy accessible and hilarious. This book is a MUST HAVE for every knitter, whether they've only just started, know nothing at all, or have been knitting for decades. Would make a great gift!
I love when she talks about how addicted to yarn she is, how she manages to hide her "stash" around the house, and how she rationalizes her oftentimes expensive yarn habit. I could totally relate.
And you just gotta love the "recipes" she comes up with for making items such as socks, hats, scarves, etc. I used her math to make my very first hat -- and it worked!
Her tips are easy to understand and use, her knitting philosophy accessible and hilarious. This book is a MUST HAVE for every knitter, whether they've only just started, know nothing at all, or have been knitting for decades. Would make a great gift!
I've read this book at least twice now. It's great for new and old knitters and it's one of the few laugh-out-loud books I've read. Stephanie has a way of getting right to the heart of all things knitting, and the things we think about all the while. She also gives great tips and references for whatever project you're working on.
I got this book in great condition and much earlier than I had expected it!
I got this book in great condition and much earlier than I had expected it!
The Yarn Harlot is a riot! she leads us through her vast knowledge of the art of knitting, while making it fun and leaving us with a reference to use again and again.
This is a very humorous book with helpful guidelines for making various items, most notably socks. I have now made several pairs of socks without a pattern. Even if you are an expert knitter you will enjoy Stephanie Pearl-McPhee's sense of humor. Highly recommended!
I loved it! Although it was a quick read, I am only left wishing there was more because it was such an enjoyable read. The author is funny and confidence inspiring. Knitting that I have avoided or not yet attempted (like socks, circular shawls, and sweaters), I now feel inspired - in the middle of summer on a day with a high over 90
Little bursts of laughter will escape from your mouth almost continuously as you read this book. If you ever thought you were the only one who felt guilty about her stash or had some ugly monster sweater stored in the deep - down of your closet...maybe this is where our childhood closet monsters come from; ask your mother. Stephanie Pearl-McPhee is awsome. Take any chance you might get to see her in person but be in good health because you will laugh 'til you cry!
This book will have you laughing out loud on most every page. I'm an intermediate knitter and I could identify with most everything she said. My husband wanted to know what was so funny - well, you have to be a knitter to get it ! Absolutely hilarious.........fun read.
Mad cackling accompanies this book whenever it is read. i had to wipe tears from my eyes repeatedly, and my husband was concerned that i might need oxygen. when i attempted to read him some of the stories from the book that were causing me such hysteria, he just looked at me and said "yeah... sounds right.." and went back to his book.
poor man, not a knitter.
In addition to stories every knitter can relate to: swatch denial, overenthusiastic gift planning.. the delusion that you can knit a sweater faster than a baby can grow out of it.... this book contains lots of useful information.
the most important information is this: "you are not alone, there are other people just as crazy as you are out there".
poor man, not a knitter.
In addition to stories every knitter can relate to: swatch denial, overenthusiastic gift planning.. the delusion that you can knit a sweater faster than a baby can grow out of it.... this book contains lots of useful information.
the most important information is this: "you are not alone, there are other people just as crazy as you are out there".
Stephanie gives many good tips for knitting in a great format. I love to read her stuff. It is just witty and light. Just what I want in a knitting book.
If you're feeling guilty about the size of your stash or the fact that the dust bunnies are forming legions under your sofa while you sit there knitting hour after hour, day after day, this is the book for you! :-)
I love this book!! I got it at my local library, and by the second chapter, I knew I had to own it!! I have been knitting most of my adult life--over 50 years--but I was never really 100% satisfied with what I made. The garments either came out too large, too small, or just plain not what I'd expected. No more. If you follow the author's advice, you will be able to knit hats, scarves, even sweaters and socks, without having to look up from your needles, trying to remember where your place was in the pattern. You won't always HAVE to use a pattern, but if you choose to, this book will make it easier for you, as well. The author provides you with a "recipe" that will be fine-tuned to the specific measurements you need for what you are making. Once you add color and/or texture, you will be able to make a truly unlimited wardrobe of knitted garments. She instructs by mixing humor in with her vast knowledge of knitting short-cuts, and even explains why the the dreaded "swatch," something I always considered a total waste of time for an "experienced" knitter, is the cornerstone of EVERY experienced knitter. Not only will I never make another garment without making that swatch first, but I'll also launder it "...in the manner the finished garment will be laundered." (The few times I HAD made a swatch in the past, I certainly hadn't wasted MORE time washing it! Big mistake! Huge!!) This is the one book that is a MUST if you want to learn how to do serious knitting. It is now my go-to book for all things to knit!!
Hilarious AND useful - does it get better?
This book was one of the most witty and fun reads I have had in a long time. I've even read excerpts aloud to non-knitters and had THEM cracking up. It's worth purchasing for that reason alone! But as if that weren't enough, she went and added actual useful information to it. I knit my very first pair of socks using her "sock recipe" and they came out just about as perfect as I could possibly expect a first ANYTHING to be. She doesn't just go through a basic pattern, she actually teaches you how to figure it out yourself so you are not thinking to yourself "okay... so I knit 17, ssk and turn.... but why 17?" This book has been in my knitting bag since I bought it. I hope the binding is strong. If you are looking for a gift for a knitter, this would be a great choice- even an expert knitter who already knows every single technique in the book will still appreciate the humor.
From a beginner knitter prospective, it is a great book to start out with. Lots of stuff doesn't apply for me - but I know that it WILL apply as I get to be a more experienced knitter. There is a treasure trove of info in here for a beginner knitter to kind of get that feeling of how to start of knitting and where I might be headed for the future as I get better. It makes me excited to start off on my new hobby!
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Actually, let me say a couple of words about the author's "sock recipe". Before I read this book, many of the regulars where I work were urging me to start making socks so I could help them when they had trouble. I'd looked at sock patterns and felt very intimidated. But the way that the Yarn Harlot explains the process is so clear and so simple that it took away all of my fear. She helped me to visualize what I would be doing, and because of that, I now have a wonderful pair of finished socks! Everyone admires them and are stunned that they're my first pair, and that I made them without a pattern.
I would recommend this book to any knitter of any skill level. Even if you own no other knitting books, you should own this one.