I love Maggie Righetti's book Knitting in Plain English, Updated Edition and I have the first edition of her new book, Sweater Design in Plain English, Second Edition. The new edition is a real winner. If you are a knitter and love to make sweaters, this is a must-have book. No more will you be knitting sweaters that are too big or too small. You'll know how to do necks and sleeves, utilize the perfect bind-ons and bind-offs, and know just what you're doing the whole time.
Part one goes into what to do before you begin your project. It covers what sweaters are, how to avoid costly mistakes, getting new ideas, understanding body shapes, getting the right measurements, and achieving the right marriage of fiber, fabric and fashion. It also covers gauge, estimating the right amount of yarn to use, and a refresher course on common knitting techniques. In addition, it covers the arithmetic of knitting and final preparation steps for designing your own sweater.
Part two is called 'Doing It - The Actual Designs'. Topics covered include V-necked sweaters, cable sweaters, cardigan jackets, child's sweaters, adult raglan cardigans, neck-down pull-overs, icelandic yoke pullovers, diagonal sweaters, designing your own sleeves, designing your own necklines and collars, and creating your own interesting effects.
This book has EVERYTHING a knitter needs to create a classic, beautiful sweater. I wouldn't be without it. It's a sweater knitter's dream-book and a must-have for anyone who wants to create their own sweater or modify a pattern.