Japanese Knitting & Chinese Knotting

Whether you’re a newbie or an avid crafter, you most likely have a wide variety of craft books. They inspire you to cultivate a new hobby or allow you to indulge in your passion for a specific craft. Some of these books may come from different countries where skilled artisan have shared their craft for others to learn. I’m addicted to knitting and crocheting so I’m always searching for books with new ideas, new patterns and new stitches. I’m also open to learning new crafts, which is why I love my two new books, Japanese Knitting Stitches and The Complete Book of Chinese Knotting.

Japanese Knitting Stitches

The Japanese Knitting Stitches book is a detailed stitch dictionary featuring 150 delightful patterns. They range from simple to more complicated expert level stitches. Each pattern will feature a swatch along with a graph. You will not find written instructions for the patterns per se. The graphs have symbols that represent specific stitches. You’ll find the complete Symbol and Abbreviation Directory and Knitting Basics at the back of the book. Some you may be familiar with, others you’ll be introduced to. Some of these include Lace Motifs, Smocking, Openwork Stitches, Color Changing Patterns, Stranded Patterns, Bobbles, Edgings, 3-D and many more.

There are written instructions for each symbol that you can follow to create the pattern. But for visual learners, there is also an illustration section called Knitting Basics that uses diagrams. Once you are familiar with the stitches, you can make any of the included seven projects.
Include Projects
♥A cardigan with charming crocheted strawberry garland
♥A multi-colored, fringed neck wrap
♥A pair of funky, sculptural arm-warmers—toasty and multi-textured
♥A charming Fair Isle knitted basket bag
♥A pair of fluffy, cuffed mittens
♥An elegant A-line textured wool sweater suitable for any body type
♥A chic Nordic-patterned short coat

Japanese Knitting Stitches will be a valued addition to your craft book collection and a go-to reference and resource book for future projects.

The Complete Book of Chinese Knotting

The Complete Book of Chinese Knotting – A Compendium of Techniques and Variations will expose readers to one of the most beautiful folk art crafts in the world. Decorate knots originated in China during the Tang and Song dynasty (960–1279 CE). Today it’s still a flourishing art form and Chinese Knots have been used numerous fashion accessories from hair ornaments to jewelry to clothing accents. Taking a cue from ancient artifacts, these graceful knots can also be used to embellish tapestries, paintings, boxes and whatever your imagination envisions.

Due to the complicated weaves and weave sequences, Chinese knots have unlimited possibilities. This book starts off with fourteen basic knots that can be used on any project. These knots include the Cloverleaf, Pan Chang, Round Brocade, Constellation, Good Luck, Buddha, Double Connection, Plafond, Flat, Button, Double Coin, Cross, Creeper and Tassel. It’s followed with a section that teaches nice ways to modify these basic knots.

Each knot has a photo and several illustrations that you can follow and recreate the same knot. Plus modified versions can be made with the included instructions. If you are looking for a new craft, this decorative art form will add much beauty to your life.

Disclaimer: I received product to facilitate a review. All opinions are my own, yours may differ.