Great New Books

Pairing detailed instructions with clear, step-by-step photography, this dynamic guide of spinning techniques and demonstrations explores an array of fiber possibilities—such as wool, glitz, and sari silk—to create unique yarn for fiber art projects. Designed for the advanced beginner to the intermediate spinner, this reference covers a variety of subjects such as spinning fundamentals, techniques for wool and silk, spinning with non-traditional materials, introducing add-ins, and creating plying effects. Additionally, the comprehensive tutorial offers information on easy home dyeing and directions for using a drumcarder to blend colors and fibers.

When it comes time to put the finishing touches on the edges of a fiber project, a crochet border is the perfect solution. Edgings are essential adornments to the most popular knit and crochet pieces blankets, scarves, and afghans. But borders can do so much more; they give handmade goods a delightful finishing touch, serve as focal points, tidy uneven edges, and add handcrafted flair to store-bought apparel. Borders often require turning a corner shaping the edgings around a 90-degree angle without breaking the pattern. This is rarely simple; add too few stitches at a corner and the work rounds inward; too many stitches, and the piece begins to ruffle awkwardly. Unfortunately, most published edging patterns fail to include specific instructions for turning the corner, leaving crafters to fend for themselves. Edie Eckman comes to the rescue in Around-the-Corner Crochet Borders, a collection of 150 colorful crochet frames, each with detailed instructions for working around a corner. Instructions are offered both as text and as charts for working in-the-round; back-and-forth charts are also included for when that method is more appropriate. Photographs of finished borders, each turning a 90-degree corner, allow readers to see the details up close. Borders range from the delicate to the flamboyant and are sure to appeal to a new generation of trend-setting crafters. Offering practical solutions to one of needlecrafts most vexing challenges, Around-the-Corner Crochet Borders is an essential addition to every crocheters reference library. With this book, marvelous crochet borders are just around the corner.

Chock-full of instruction, inspiration, and to-die for designs, from a Fishnet Skullcap to a lacy evening wrap. Benefit by learning this sister craft to knitting, a discussion of tools; all the cool yarns available, and what the different gauges mean; plus basic techniques and stitch patterns - including the chain stitch, picot, flowers, filet crochet, changing yarns and finishing.

This fabulous collection of knit hats, curated and presented by well-known knitter and author Annie Modesitt, is sure to delight and inspire. The book includes both original designs and well-knit examples of hats of all styles; for men, women, and children alike. The top 10 original designs submissions received prizes, and those 10 award-winning hat patterns are included in the book.