Japanese Knitting Stitches from Tokyo's Kazekobo Studio
A Dictionary of 200 Stitch Patterns by Yoko Hatta
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- $27.99
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- $27.99
Publisher Description
This exciting new Japanese stitch dictionary is from popular designer Yoko Hatta--the founder and driving force behind the Kazekobo Studio. Though this is her first book in English, her work already has an extensive following in Western countries--more than 1,000 of her designs can be seen on Ravelry.com.
Hatta is one of several Japanese knitters whose patterns and designs have sparked an explosion of interest in Japanese knitting techniques and aesthetics around the world. Her work in knitwear design spans more than thirty years, and knitters love her modern-yet-timeless, fun-yet-classy styles.
This book presents her 200 favorite Kazekobo stitch patterns--a delightful selection of multipurpose knit-and-purl, lace, cable, Aran and rib & twist stitches in solids and motifs.
Sample projects give knitters a chance to practice Hatta's techniques. These include:Mini mufflers using knit-and-purl stitchesA cozy scallop-edged scarf using lace stitchesA beautifully textured pair of mittens using cable and Aran stitchesA stylish and sturdy pair of two-tone socks using rib and twist stitchesExperienced knitters will find a wealth of unique patterns just waiting to be brought to life. A guide to the basic symbols shows how to knit the stitches, step-by-step.
Originally published in Japanese by Nihon Vogue, whose books have brought the designs of artists such as Hitomi Shida, Keiko Okamoto and others to knitters around the world, this book will be a much-anticipated addition to every knitter's library.
PUBLISHERS WEEKLY
Not for the faint of heart (or hand), this knitting guide from yarn virtuoso Hatta will appeal to those already expert in the craft. The superbly designed and photographed book represents Japanese knitting at its finest, with a basic introduction to reading Japanese knitting patterns, which are charted entirely instead of written out. Knitters familiar with charted patterns won't have much trouble casting on, but those who prefer reading patterns will be well advised to practice with yarn and needles before beginning. Helpfully divided among sections labeled "Knit & Purl," "Lace," "Cable & Aran," and "Rib & Twist," the 200 stitch patterns most of which should be familiar to veteran knitters are illustrated via photos of finished swatches next to their chart patterns, so one may see how, for instance, to translate Hatta's lace charts into the knitted fabric. The four projects at the book's conclusion consist of small but complicated endeavors, the easiest of which is a four-color stockinette-stitched striped "Mini Scarf." This is a perfect stitch dictionary for any knitter embarking on charted territory for the third or fourth time.