Creative Machine Knitting

Creative Machine Knitting is simply a treasure trove for machine knitters; overflowing with design ideas and stitch patterns to inspire you to explore different styles and to make wonderful new projects. Knit with an open mind and be prepared to have a go, make changes and look to improvise – push yourself out of your comfort zone. Topics covered include; how to design – from where to source inspiration, consideration of materials and adoption of sustainable practices; painting with yarn – the process of translating a pattern or colour scheme into a knitted fabric; designing with panels and borders, and adding embellishments; Fairisle – advice on colour selection and pattern placement, including a 'sketchbook' of over fifty stitch patterns to try and finally, there is an inspiring stitch pattern directory of even more examples, illustrating the endless possibilities available to the machine knitter. The book features over 100 patterns, all of which can be adapted and form the basis of new designs, covering: jackets, cardigans and kimonos; sweaters; Fairisle designs; waistcoats; children's knitwear; accessories and homewares.

The popularity of hand frame knitting is underestimated and there are many passionate and creative knitters who have taken machine knitting into their heads, hearts and hands. Overflowing with colour and stitch ideas, inspirational photos and customizable patterns, this book will inject vitality into your knitting practice. Explore how colours can be juxtaposed for best effect or where Slip, Tuck and Fair Isle stitches will add new textures and make intricate fabrics. Seventy-five knitting patterns, ranging from coats and scarves to bags and sculptures, offer enticing new project ideas as well as suggested variations and additions you can make to expand your design skills. Topics covered include: a history of hand frame knitting; techniques and stitches; the design process; stripes, circles and colour; Fair Isle; lace and sculptural vessels and, finally, how to develop your hobby into a business. Written for both experienced knitters and anyone using a knitting machine, this book will act as a catalyst for hand frame knitters to add stitch and colour variety to their work.

The ultimate guide to machine knitting. This book has been designed to help you demystify machine knitting. Perfect for beginners, it starts with how the machine works and how stitches are formed, all the way through to shaping garment panels to your desired size and fit. Each chapter focuses on different skills that build throughout the book, with lots of projects so you can put the skills into practice and make some knits for yourself. Designer Profiles at the end of each chapter showcase the work of professional machine knitters to provide context, inspiration and celebrate the huge potential for creativity in machine knitting. From troubleshooting and looking after the machine to using more advanced techniques such as intarsia and shaping, this book will help you fall in love with your knitting machine. If you work through the step-by-step instructions and projects in this book, by the end of it you will be designing and knitting your own garments!

The patterns here range from elegant evening dresses to relaxed leisure wear. Some update classic styles, others showcase the most contemporary fashions. Each design has a special feature, perhaps yarns in striking colors or a creative use of beads, sequins, tassels, and buttons. Along with the easy-to-follow instructions and color photos, there’s practical advice on adapting a pattern for specific needs and knitting diagrams.