Whether you are knitting or crocheting for yourself or designing patterns for others, it can be extremely helpful to read books about the craft.
The books that I recommend are all ones that I own and reference often or wished I owned. I think you will find them worth adding to your own bookshelf. And as I add to my own library, I will update this list to reflect my favorites.
Stitch Dictionaries
Stitch dictionaries are great for the designer because you can browse hundreds of combinations of stitches to find the perfect pattern for your next project.
These books also come in handy for anyone else who knits or crochets because the stitches are laid out plainly on the page. All directions needed to complete the stitch are printed.
My Top 3 Knitting Stitch Dictionaries
#1 Up Down, All-Around Stitch Dictionary
First, I recommend Up, Down, All-Around Stitch Dictionary (click to view on Amazon.com) by Wendy Bernard. There are over 150 stitch patterns that cover knit and purls, ribbing, lace, eyelets, cables, lace, colorwork, hems and more!
And these are the reasons for my recommendation:
- The book has colored swatches pictured for each stitch pattern so you can easily visualize it.
- There are easy directions for flat and in the round knitting.
- Easy to read charts are pictured below the directions.
- Three “From Scratch” designs in the back that are written so you can change out the stitch patterns and venture out on your own.
Price: A little over $25.
#2 The Knitting Bible
I also recommend The Knitting Bible (click to view on Amazon.com). This was the first stitch dictionary that I ordered off of Amazon. At the time I didn’t know much about pattern design and seeing the stitches displayed was really nice.
The reason for my recommendation:
- Over 300 stitch patterns that range from knit and purl combos, cables, slip stitches, lace, eyeletes, cast offs and more.
- Written instructions that go row by row.
- Clear and easy to read charts.
- Pictures of the stitch patterns for easy visualization.
Price: Less than $15.
#3 Japanese Knitting Stitch Bible
I also recommend Japanese Knitting Stitch Bible: 260 Exquisite Patterns by Hitomi Shida (click here to view on Amazon) for experienced knitters. This is an advanced book with intricate designs. I don’t recommend this for beginners because each stitch pattern is written in chart form only.
The reason for my recommendation:
- 260 beautiful and intricate stitch patterns.
- Chapters laid out like this: Lacy Patterns, Overall Patterns and Crossing Stitches, Pattern Panels, Pattern Arrangements, Round Yokes and Edgings.
- Guide to the charts and symbols.
Price: Less than $15.
Crochet Stitch Dictionaries
#1 Crochet Every Way Stitch Dictionary
I recommend Crochet Every Way Stitch Dictionary (click here to get on Amazon) for makers and designers alike.
The reasons for my recommendation:
- There are 125 stitch patterns throughout the book.
- It also includes how to increase and decrease the stitch pattern.
- Increase and decreases are explained in three ways: without shaping, edge shaping and internal shaping.
- Beautifully photographed swatches for representation.
- Written instructions as well as charts for each stitch pattern.
Price: Less than $20.
Pattern Designing
If you have ever had an interest in designing patterns, all of the books that I recommend in this section are the ones that taught me nearly everything I know. I have gained so much knowledge and I guarantee these books will help you get to the knitting or crochet designer you want to be.
Amy Herzog’s Ultimate Sweater Book
I recommend Amy Herzog’s Ultimate Sweater Book (click to view on Amazon) for anyone that wants to design sweaters or modify patterns to fit better.
The reasons for my recommendation:
- She gives the basic construction for four sweater types: drop shoulder, raglan, yoke and set-in-sleeve.
- Part 1 is all about drafting up your own pattern, based on one of the four sweater types.
- She gives guidance on how to modify patterns that you have written or purchased.
- Instructions on how to embellish your garments with the fabric, edges, closures, pockets and necklines.
- Bonus! Amy includes 16 patterns throughout the book.
Price: Less than $20.
Pattern Writing
The Beginner’s Guide to Writing Knitting Patterns
I recommend The Beginner’s Guide to Writing Knitting Patterns (click to view on Amazon) for knitters that write their own patterns but need guidance on how to write a clear pattern for an audience.
The reason for my recommendation:
- The book includes every element of a knitting pattern that should be included.
- There is a section on how to articulate the sizing and final measurements for a given pattern so that the knitter can choose the correct size.
- It gives advice on when to use a schematic to illustrate the shape of the garment.
- The book shows you how to use written instructions and charts for certain stitch patterns.
- It includes the formatting and layout of a pattern.
- Expert advice is sprinkled throughout.
Price: About $25.