Gift Books: Needlearts — Knitting & Crochet

The comfort crafts of needlework— knitting and crocheting — have experienced a resurgence of interest of late. Both men and women are taking it up as a way of relaxing and keeping idle hands busy while creating something useful, beautiful and/or fun at the same time. Just as readers get together regularly in book clubs, needleworkers also make getting together a regular social activity to share tips, patterns and conversation. Promote these books to your local knitter/crocheters for inspiration.

Beyond the Square Crochet Motifs  by Edie Eckman shows crocheters that there is more than geometric motifs to the art. The book is a workshop of illustrated instruction taking the reader through basic crochet techniques and then providing 144 different illustrated motifs and shapes including trangles, hexagons, stars and other unexpected shape. Stitching instructions are easy to understand for the beginner as well as the advanced crafter. Storey Publishing. 208 pages. $18.95. 

Crocheting on the Edge by Nicky Epstein presents illustrated instructions for more that 200 decorative borders ranging from ruffles to points & scallops. Additionally, there are instructions for creating seven full-scale projects, indlucing a ribbed jacket and a blanket. This hardcover book includes detailed charts and full color photographs.  Sixth&Spring Books. 184 pages. $29.95.

Also by Nicky Epstein is Nicky Epstein’s Signature Scarves: Dazzling Designs to Knit. This volume presents more that 30 scarves in variety of styles, from a floral patchwork to a shawl-collared cable knit. There are projects for every experience level from beginner to advanced. In addition to patterns and instructions, the book includes scarf tying tips and techniques, edging styles with instructions, and more. Sixth&Spring Books. 150 pages. $29.95.

Tapping into the plush trend of creatures that are appealing in their ugliness (a la Uglydolls, et al.), Creepy Cute Crochet by Christen Haden contains more than 25 patterns for zombies, ninjas, Vikings, aliens, orbots and more. These stuffed dolls are similar to amigurumi, Japanese-inspires crochet and knit dolls, only creepier. This hardcover book presents serious instructions in a not-so-serious way, making this a labor of fun. Quirk Books. 96 pages. $14.95

For customers looking for an edgier look, there’s Knockdown Knits: 30 Projects from the Roller Derby Track by Joan of Dark (aka Toni Carr). This softcover volume is packed with out-of-the-box projects ranging from ide pack covers to armpit cusions for crutches —all inspired by agressive skaters who happen to also be avid crafters. Other projects include slinky arm socks, a felted skate bag and bloomer panties. Wiley. 134 pages. $19.99. Also from Wiley, is Teach Yourself Visually Sock Knitting by Laura Chau, which explains step-by-step the essential methods involved in learnign how to knit socks — from working with double-pointed needles to turning a heel to grafting a toe. Fully illustrated with detailed photos. $21.99.