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Why should you order from LOOT?

Knitting does not come easy to those who are taught
by the left-handed-mother-faction. I am often taunted with my wide armed movements
and uncomfortable speed. Still my love for knitting is not diminished.
A movable craft is what my heart desires and none be as movable as knitting.

To Attain Knitting Bliss - The Best Books


*A moveable craft*

My favorite knitting blog:

Knitting Zen When I started on the web in 1996 Willa's daily journal was the first I started reading. I'm still reading
and enjoying all her pages. You will find so many knitting links here
you will hardly have time to knit anything. Pace yourself and enjoy them over time.

25 Bags to Knit

Emma King

R197.00

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Review:

I already own this book. It is beautiful and easy to use.
Small projects that you can take anywhere while you are making them
and wear anywhere once they are made.
Function and Creativity in one, what more can you wish for...
a wool shop within driving distance would be nice.
Large beautiful photos that will make your knitting needles click with excitement.


Synopsis:

From the Publisher This original collection of contemporary hand–knitted bags ranges from big, stripy carry–alls and super–handy baby bags to petite clutches and elegant evening purses. The techniques employed in the designs also range widely and include intarsia, embroidery, crochet, Fair Isle, and entrelac. All the bags are displayed in stunning color photographs, and each project includes a close–up detail of the pattern, full knitting instructions, and clear charts; there are also details on alternate colorways and added embellishment. 25 Bags to Knit is complete with an indispensable workshop section focusing on yarns, linings, and fashionable ideas for those all–important finishing touches: handles and fasteners. Emma King, a consultant for Rowan Yarns, is an exciting new knitting designer, whose passion for color, texture and uniquely modern designs will inspire all knitters.

Author's Link:

Emma King

Andean Folk Knits

Marcia Lewandowski

R179.00

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Synopsis:

With these attractive ethnic patterns from the Andes, knitters not only expand their design repertoire, they literally knit a connection with other cultures. The fabulous selection of 25 projects includes vibrant bags and other accessories based on the rich traditions of Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Ecuador, and Peru. Knit fingerless mittens and a purse from Peru's Ollantaytambo region. A wonderfully functional Argentinean felt bag fits around the waist, and is perfect for holding money and other small belongings; a matching hat makes for an attractive ensemble. Or try making a chic and simple Chilean striped bag and scarf, or an adorable Bolivian purse in the shape of a llama. Every chapter offers interesting facts about the Andean people, history, and culture, too.

200 Knitted Blocks

Jan Eaton

R183.00

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Synopsis:

Create gorgeous afghans and accessories with 200 knitted blocks to mix and match! A kaleidoscope of colorful contemporary and traditional designs range from easy to advanced.

· Knit 200 blocks, from simple knit-and-purl patterns to cable, lace, and bobble blocks
· Combine blocks in any arrangement; all blocks will finish to the same size when worked in the same yarn weight
· Finish any project in style with patterns for fringes, ruffles, and other decorative edgings

Last-Minute Knitted Gifts

Joell Hoverson

R198.00

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Synopsis:

Today's knitters are chic, smart-and busy. Although they love to knit and enjoy making gifts for family and friends, they're constantly faced with the challenge of finding enough time to actually finish what they've started. Last-Minute Knitted Gifts solves this problem. Joelle Hoverson, owner of Purl, the hip knitting supply store in downtown Manhattan, has designed more than 30 fun, fresh, beautiful patterns, most of which can be made in less than ten hours-some in as little as two!

Known for her keen sense of color, Hoverson includes instructions for classic gifts like baby booties and bonnets, sweaters, and scarves, plus imaginative options like a cashmere tea cozy, a felted yoga mat bag, floor cushions, and a poncho-surely something for everyone on the gift list. And to make each present extra-special, Hoverson offers easy tips on how to incorporate knitting and other yarn embellishments into the gift wrap. AUTHOR BIO: Knitwear designer Joelle Hoverson is the owner of Purl, an upscale knitting supply store in New York City's trendy SoHo neighborhood. Since opening in 2002, Purl has been featured in Oprah Winfrey's O magazine, Lucky, and Time Out, as well as on Martha Stewart's syndicated television show. From 1996 to 2000, Hoverson worked as a senior style editor for Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia. She holds a master of fine arts degree from Yale University.

Anna Williams is a freelance photographer based in New York City. Her work appears frequently in Martha Stewart Living, Oprah Winfrey's O magazine, Food & Wine, Gourmet, Real Simple, In Style, Elle Decor, and other national publications.

Knitting on the Edge - The Essential Collection of Decorative Borders

Nicky Epstein

R234.00

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Synopsis:

Compiled by an acclaimed knitwear designer and teacher, this collection of 350 knitted edgings, borders, and trims runs the gamut of styles and offers something for all tastes. A wealth of individual project ideas are featured for ribbed edges, ruffles, lace, fringes, flora, and garters. Color photographs accompany each of the designs, which rely upon readily available yarns and which come complete with line-by-line stitching instructions. Decorate cuffs, finish hems, and customize your own unique sweater. Develop distinctive styles and patterns using ideas such as the feather lace ruffle, bel epoque, garter stitch weave, sea scallop edge, sugar drop and much more.

Knitting Over the Edge - The Second Essential Collection of Decorative Borders

Nicky Epstein

R239.00

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Synopsis:

Nicky Epstein, one of today's hottest knitwear designers, has created a fabulous follow-up to last season's bestselling Knitting on the Edge. With hundreds of new and super edgings to try, it's a must-have in every knitting library.

Practically every knitted project needs an edging, and with her hit knitting reference, Knitting on the Edge, Nicky Epstein took the humble traditional rib to new heights. She now proudly presents a companion volume that's equally informative and rich in designs. Knitting Over the Edge takes the craft further, with more than 300 unusual edge combinations and shapings that will add a special, unique touch to any piece. The striking patterns will keep knitters of every level busy experimenting with different types of ties, loops, knots, braids, twists, bobbles and more. The topics explored in depth include cords, appliqués (such as flowers, leaves, hearts, and geometrics), color work, and a host of truly extraordinary corners, angles, bindings, and closures. A Selection of the Crafters Choice Book Club.

Knitwear designer Nicky Epstein has gained nationwide recognition for her informative workshops, her distinctive and innovative work, and her whimsical sense of style. She has authored numerous books including Knitting on the Edge, Crochet for Barbie Doll, and Knits for Barbie Doll. Her designs have also been featured in Vogue Knitting magazine, as well as many other publications, as well as on television and in art exhibitions.

Blankets and Throws to Knit

Debbie Abrahams

R241.00

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Review:

After a very long 8 month but worthwhile wait, I own this book.
In this book you will find a blankie for every occasion. Beautiful
examples, patterns and end product images.
If you love creative knitting this is a must have.

Synopsis:

This manual contains patterns and instructions for mixing and matching afghan squares for blankets and throws. There are 100 designs on offer, from baby pastels to brightly coloured motifs embellished with beads and buttons.

Links:

Debbie Abrahams:

Knitting with Beads

Jane Davis

R194.00

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Synopsis:

Knit one and bead too: these patterns combine two favorite crafts for breathtaking results. Thirty gorgeous projects, shown in color photos and accompanied by charts, offer a variety of styles, colors, and materials. Every design simply begs knitters to try out new techniques. Picture a lacelike scarf knit from angora yarn, accented with delicate crystals. Enjoy an evening out dressed in a black knit camisole, embellished with small metallic beads and shimmery beaded fringe. See how a simple, classic cable hat becomes something special with sparkly beaded details. A beautiful autumn shawl drips with bead fringing, and it's super quick to make. Or jazz up a denim-colored tank top and bag, transform a beret into something oh-so-chic, and dress up a pair of woolen gloves. A basics section details several techniques for incorporating beads into knitting, including embroidery, fringe, and appliqué.

The Knitted Rug

Donna Druchunas

R194.00

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Synopsis:

Here’s a fresh take on the crafts of rugmaking and knitting—the very first book of its kind. These 21 stylish rug projects are so eye-catching that it’s hard to believe that even novice knitters can create them. But they can, thanks to a thorough section on knitting basics, sumptuously illustrated with more than 60 how-to photographs; advice on embellishments, including embroidery, fringes, and tassels; and instruction on finishing touches, such as weaving ends, sewing seams, blocking, backing, and lining. Put this knowledge to work on a multicolored Big Needle Garter Stitch Rug, Knit and Purl Oval Rug, Thunderbird Wall Tapestry, and others. Every rug is beautifully photographed in a home setting, and includes patterns and ideas for modifying the design. The author lives in Longmont, CO.

Beaded Tassels, Braids & Fringes

Valerie Campbell-Harding

Used Only

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Synopsis:

Close-up photographs, detailed illustrations, and step-by-step instructions outline the basics of beading and teach the ins and outs of making one-of-a-kind fringes, tassels, chains, flowers, cords, and more.—Vogue Patterns.
Campbell-Harding adds beads in a variety of patterns to her tassels, creating delightful lacy bubbles that can be used to embellish curtains, lampshades or clothing....A good addition.—Library Journal.

Freeform Knitting and Crochet

Jenny Dowde

R160.00

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Synopsis:

“Take your yarn for a walk,” says author Jenny Dowde, who teaches the freeform “scrumbling” technique. With scrumbling, needleworkers can work unbound by patterns and yet still successfully knit or crochet a project. With just a range of simple stitches and only a few basic techniques, anyone can create lovely and useful household objects and eye-catching wearable art. Full-color photographs illustrate Dowde’s methods in action, from completing both basic and advanced stitches to working with wires and beads, along with a host of special techniques, including constructing buttons, unusual closures, and special accents from polymer clay.

Comments:

This one is definately on my to buy list

Weekend Knitting

Melanie Falick, Ericka McConnell

R203.00

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Comments:

This book was so expensive I could not afford it and I had to use up a Valentine's
gift to get it into my mitts. It was well worth it. This book that knitting is not
just a fun, collapsible, backpack kind of craft but it is in fact a lifestyle.

*Knitters get to nap between plain and pearl.
*Knitters get to have hot chocolate while knitting
*Literature would not be bankrupt without knitting (p116)
*Knitters manage to look relaxed, trendy and fabulous wearing their own handiwork.
*Knitting can be done practically anywhere
*To knit is bliss.
*Knitting keeps your eggs warm and your face clean.

Synopsis:

Knitting is more popular today than it has been for decades-it's been called "the hot new hobby" and even "the new yoga." The latest generation of knitters thrives on quick projects that are creative, fulfilling, and relaxing-and can fit into a busy lifestyle. Weekend Knitting collects 50 unique, innovative projects and ideas for the beginning- and intermediate-level knitter, many of which can be made in a weekend or less.

Every project is presented in full-color photographs and with clear instructions. Weekend Knitting also features beautiful photos shot in and around real homes, evoking perfect knitting weekends filled with fresh air, friends, and delicious food.

Longtime knitting expert Melanie Falick has also brought together quotes about knitting, creativity, and balanced living from such diverse sources as Virginia Woolf, Pablo Picasso, and Saint Francis of Assisi. Recipes for treats such as hot cocoa and butter cookies and tips about fun and stress-reducing activities like hand massages, taking a bath, and hosting a knitting film festival complete the weekend knitting experience.

Stitch 'n Bitch Handbook

Debbie Stoller

R119.00

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Synopsis:

Knitting is hot, with 4 million newcomers in the last few years joining a core group of 38,000,000 knitters nationwide. And these are primarily young, creative, connected chicks with sticks who are coming together in living rooms, knitting cafes, and chic yarn stores, and making everything from funky hats to bikinis.

In Stitch 'n Bitch, Debbie Stoller-founder of the first Stitch 'n Bitch knitting group in New York City-covers every aspect of knitting and the knitting-together lifestyle: the how-to, the when-to, the what-to, the why-to. Writing with wit and attitude (The Knitty-Gritty, Blocking for Blockheads), she explains the different types of needles and yarns (and sheep, too) and all the techniques from basic to fancy, knit to purl to cast-off. She also shares her special brand of corrective surgery for when things go wrong, and offers fun and informative sidebars on such topics as how to find the best yarn for less, how to make a buttonhole, knitting etiquette, and what tools to keep in your knitting bag. At the heart of the book are forty stylish patterns: Alien Scarf, Big Bad Baby Blanky, Mohair Hoodie, Kitty and Devil Hat, Cell Phone Cozy, and Wonder Woman Bikini. And for anyone interested: how to start a Stitch 'n Bitch group.

Fast Knits, Fat Needles

Sally Harding

R215.00

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Comments:

This book is in my collection and I will
review it soon.

Loop-d-loop

Teva Durham, Adrian Buckmaster

R267.00

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Synopsis:

Teva Durham began knitting as a hobby. It wasn't long, though, before she became mesmerized by the craft. Now, as an extraordinarily innovative designer, Durham is at the forefront of the widely heralded new era of knitting. In Loop-d-Loop, she presents more than 40 fresh, modern designs for adults, children, and the home, a mix of simple projects with high-fashion impact sure to inspire beginners and more complex projects for those who want to test and expand their virtuosity.

Focusing on a wide range of clever technical applications, the patterns include a spiral scarf, a cardigan with a "dreamcatcher" web carved out of the back, a buckled tartan kilt, and a slipcover that transforms a folding chair into a throne. With more than 70 lush color photos and a thought-provoking text that brings together eclectic references to philosophy, art, and popular culture, the book creates a contemplative, enchanted realm that resonates with beauty and meaning. For knitters who enter the Loop-d-Loop world, the way they knit-and think about knitting-will never be the same.

AUTHOR BIO: Teva Durham founded loop-d-loop-an innovative line of handknits-in 2000. She is a former editor at Vogue Knitting International, and her writing and designs are featured in major knitting magazines as well as the books Weekend Knitting (STC), Scarf Style, Knitting Lessons, For the Love of Knitting, and several Vogue Knitting On the Go titles. Durham has taught knitting at yarn shops as well as at the Open Center in New York.Adrian Buckmaster is a portrait, fashion, and landscape photographer who lives in Manhattan. He has worked extensively in New York and London for various magazines and is a member of the Art Workers Guild, founded by William Morris.

Nicky Epstein's Knitted Flowers

Nicky Epstein

R189.00

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Synopsis:

Bestselling author Nicky Epstein creates a garden of knitted flowers sure to charm her legion of fans.

Nicky Epstein is a “rock star” of knitting who has earned nationwide recognition for her innovative and distinctive work. Her books Knitting on the Edge and Knitting Over the Edge are both bestsellers, and her many collections of Barbie™ Doll knitwear have proven enormously popular. Here, Nicky knits up a garden of colorful and whimsical flowers to adorn clothes, shoes, pillows, bags—almost anything at all. These pretty blossoms range from ruffled roses to lazy daisies, from single blooms to complete bouquets, from layered petal varieties to scalloped and corkscrew styles. Some are made of soft, sensuous felt; others showcase sparkling, eye-catching gold lamé. With Epstein’s detailed instructions and the breathtaking images, knitters will find completing these projects a pleasure.

Odd Ball Knitting : Creative Ideas for Leftover Yarn

Albright Barbara, J Lampe

R177.00

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Synopsis:

Odd Ball Knitting solves the conundrum of what to make with your yarn stash by offering more than thirty beautiful projects that don’t look as if they were made with odds and ends. From stylish accessories to decorations for your home, there’s something fun and unexpected to knit from every strand you’ve been saving. Patterns are organized within chapters by the amount and type of yarn required to complete each project, so knitters with lots of extra yarn will rejoice in the Felted Patchwork Rug or the funky I-80 Poncho, while those with a more modest collection can stitch Curlilocks Finger Puppets, Mini Christmas Stockings, and other quick projects. For the scarf lover in all of us, a special section featuring reversible scarf patterns provides clever new ideas for everyone’s favorite first project.

Transforming your collection of mismatched yarn into stylish, practical accessories has never been easier. Author Barbara Albright offers strategies for using color, determining yardage, and combining yarn in unique ways. Odd Ball Knitting provides fresh new designs to change your hodgepodge of scraps into ingenious, fashionable, one-of-a-kind creations.

Knit Scarves and Shawls

Jane Davis

R161.00

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Synopsis:

Knit scarves are the hottest new fashion accessory. Answering the demand for new scarf, poncho and shawl ideas, this new book provides 35 fun, contemporary projects knitters can create quickly and easily, many featuring popular novelty yarns.

Knit Scarves and Shawls explores various techniques for knitting, ranging from cables and color work to embellishing with beads and embroidery. Each section features a number of progressive projects ranging from beginner, to intermediate, to expert. This book offers something for every knitter and gives beginners a chance to improve their skills as they undertake each new project.

-35 contemporary, easy-to-follow projects for knitted scarves, ponchos and shawls -Teaches various knitting techniques, including color work and embellishments -Projects range from beginner to expert

Knitting Vintage Socks

Nancy Bush

R161.00

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Synopsis:

Everything old is new again, and this collection of vintage sock patterns mines Weldon's Practical Needlework, a compilation of newsletters published more than 100 years ago, for some of the best. Twenty-four classic patterns are updated here for modern knitters with the inclusion of gauges, contemporary yarns, modern methods, and modern sizes. Filled with fascinating household and historic tidbits from the era, along with little-known tips such as an unconventional way to shape a heel, this historical and gracefully written book evokes a more genteel time while presenting a bevy of colorful socks not seen for nearly a hundred years. After an introduction to a few techniques from the original Weldon's, the patterns begin with an 1887 pair of Gentleman's Shooting Stockings with Fluted Pattern and end with a pair of Ladies' Silk Stockings with Clocks from 1914. Intended for knitters of all levels, this walk down memory lane revives some very classic patterns that may have been gone but are not forgotten.

Folk Shawls

Cheryl Oberle

R161.00

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Synopsis:

Shawls are currently making a huge comeback in the fashion world, but many people do not realize that the shawl has been worn for many centuries and in many cultures. This collection of patterns and traditions features shawls from around the world. From the Himalayas to Spain, from Iceland to Japan, and from Mexico to Norway, many of the shawls featured here have been taken from examples of historic knitted shawls. Other designs have been translated into knitwear from patterns for woven or lace shawls. Included are 25 patterns as well as historical and cultural information about shawls that have been used for prayer and mourning, as bridal veils, and as christening garments. Each design is presented with a full-page color photo, written instructions, and charts.

Folk Vests

Cheryl Oberle

R165.00

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Synopsis:

Knitters will delight in these 25 traditional and innovative vest patterns collected from around the world and through the ages. Both functional and decorative, these wonderful projects for men's and women's vests are accompanied by folk stories and regional histories from the country of the design's origin, including Scandinavia, Japan, North America, Nepal, Peru,and many others. More than a pattern book, readers will feel connected to the cultures behind the projects as they bring these native crafts to life.

Folk Bags

Vicki Square

R167.00

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Synopsis:

Thirty projects from 23 countries offer a worldwide representation of bags, from Asia and Africa to Europe and the Americas. From the fish-shaped Japanese felted bag to the Persian carpet–inspired handbag, each bag is a product of its cultural history. Each pattern begins with a brief history describing the source behind these contemporary interpretations of folk designs. Folk stories also accompany many projects. Included are designs for bags for work or play, and bags of all shapes, colors, textures, and sizes. Using this collection, knitters can create bags for children, for market, for everyday, or for a special evening event.

Wrap Style

Pam Allen, Ann Budd

R161.00

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Synopsis:

This contemporary collection of wraps showcases the work of 18 knitwear designers that include Lily Chin, Nicky Epstein, and Jo Sharp. The designs for these ponchos, capes, stoles, and capelets vary from simple to challenging and explore shape and silhouette possibilities in a host of techniques, including stitch patterns, color work, lace, beads, crochet, and felt. A glossary is provided, containing all the information necessary for even a novice knitter to successfully create one-of-a-kind fashions. The book also includes an in-depth section on designing and embellishing, making it a companion for future creativity. All knitters and crocheters, from the most demanding to those just embarking upon larger projects, will be inspired by these stylish designs that stretch the definition of a poncho.

Scarves and Shawls for Yarn Lovers

C. Hammett

R183.00

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Synopsis:

The knitting trend is being fueled by wonderful new yarns like ribbon, frizzy, eyelash, and metallic. Scarves and Shawls for Yarn Lovers presents easy knit patterns that make the most of these irresistible novelty and decorative yarns. Knitters will learn the secrets of combining colors and textures while creating stunning accessories in no time. Each project has variations showing how different yarns will totally change the look. The easy knit stitches and techniques are taught step by step with photographs.

Throughout, a yarn expert shares her tips to make knitting more enjoyable and successful. Scarves and Shawls for Yarn Lovers is for both beginning knitters, who usually start with scarves and will love this way to take their craft to the next level, and experienced knitters, who are all yarn addicts!

So simple crochet

Melody Griffiths

R155.00

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Synopsis:

Crochet beautiful accessories the easy way with So Simple Crochet. From chic ponchos to trendy scarves, this book includes 24 patterns that showcase all of todays styles. The designs, including wraps, boleros, jackets, hats, and mittens, use many of the popular fashion yarns available, such as cottons, tapes, mohairs, and metallic threads. All of the pieces are amazingly fast and simple to make. Basic techniques are explained to get beginners started, while clear, concise pattern instructions and full-color photographs show stitch details. With So Simple Crochet, readers will discover how easy and fun the craft of crochet can be.

The Knitting Goddess - Finding the Heart and Soul of Knitting Through Instruction, Projects and Stories

Deborah Bergman

R125.00

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Synopsis:

From Hollywood to fashion circles to knitting circles on college campuses across the country, knitting is the hippest new skill around and is practiced by millions of people. Combining the best of two great worlds, The Knitting Goddess consists of 10 chapters, each offering a fascinating story of an ancient goddess, which is then applied to a basic knitting technique or simple pattern. Learn, for instance, about Isis, the mother goddess of Egypt, and knit a red stole that grants power to its wearer. Other stories and projects include Athene and a scarf called a smoke ring, Penelope and a warm beautiful sweater, and more. Wonderful for beginners as well as the more advanced knitter, this one-of-a-kind approach to knitting will teach readers not only how to master the craft, but will also entertain, inspire, and inform.


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