Knitting Without Tears

The author guides the novice and the experienced knitters in short-cuts and construction tricks and offers twenty original designs

From Elizabeth Zimmermann, who “revolutionized the art of knitting” (New York Times), the classic knitting bible that removes the frustration and puts the fun back into knitting with easy-to-follow instructions and timeless designs. Do you love to knit—and hate to purl? Have you ever started a sweater without enough yarn from the same dye lot to finish it? When you cast on, do you end up with a tail of yarn that’s maddeningly too long or too short? Elizabeth Zimmermann comes to the rescue with clever solutions to frustrating problems and step-by-step instructions for brilliant, timeless designs. In Knitting Without Tears, you’ll find elegant designs for: Color-pattern Norwegian ski sweaters Seamless patterned-yoke sweaters Hooded garter-stitch jackets for babies Watch caps, socks, slippers, mittens, and more! This classic and influential book is poised to inspire a whole new generation of knitters who have yet to discover the joys and comforts of knitting. As the lady herself once put it, “properly practiced, knitting soothes the troubled spirit, and it doesn't hurt the untroubled spirit either.”

Now featuring new instructions, new illustrations, and new information, The Principles of Knitting—beloved by knitters everywhere and one of the most requested out-of-print books for years—finally gets the revision that fans have been clamoring for! A treasured guide beloved by knitters everywhere, the classic book The Principles of Knitting is finally available again in a fully revised and updated edition. This is the definitive book on knitting techniques, with valuable information for everyone from beginners to experienced knitters. June Hiatt presents not only a thorough, thoughtful approach to the craft, but also a passion for carrying on the art of knitting to future generations. She has repeatedly tested the various techniques and presents them with clear, easy-to-follow instructions—as well as an explanation of what each one can contribute to your knitting. Informed by decades of experience and thousands of hours of practice, this comprehensive resource offers a variety of ways to approach every skill and technique and offers solutions that can help solve the most challenging aspects of any knitting project. The Principles of Knitting has been totally rewritten—new instructions, new illustrations, and new information. While the basics of knitting have not changed much, June’s understanding of the material has deepened over the last twenty-five years, and she’s eager to share what she has learned with the knitting world. In addition, the book has been reorganized to make it easier to use and has a gorgeous new design. Reading The Principles of Knitting is like having a knitting mentor by your side who can answer any knitting question you have in an honest, intelligent, informed manner.

Zimmermann was a designer who stressed independent thinking. She outlines the construction and little more, in the hope that you will feel free to experiment and take your knitting in new directions. These garments serve as a jumping off point for you to knit a version in any size, and make it your own.

Classic "how-to" book covers everything from winding yarn and fundamental stitches to making patterns and garments, blocking, and more with over 250 technique diagrams illustrating every basic step and pattern.

"Originally published by Unicorn Books, Petaluma, California, in 2002."

Expanded hardcover edition of expert's popular guide features 23 classic patterns for Aran sweaters, mittens, moccasins, and other items. Suitable for intermediate to advanced knitters. Includes new color photos, sizing charts, and more.