The Knitters's Handy Book of Patterns: Basic Designs in Multiple Sizes and Gauges (Interweave) [Spiral-bound]

"Have you seen those advertisements that say 'this is the only book you'll ever need on this subject'? This new volume by Budd isn't the only knitting book you'll ever need, but one could knit hundreds of different mittens, gloves, socks, sweaters, vests, hats, and scarves from just the patterns found here. Budd is [former] managing editor of the popular magazine "Interweave Knits," and this is the book she wished she had when she worked in a yarn store and customers requested patterns made for their size with yarns available in the shop. The patterns allow the knitter to create garments in any size from toddler to extra-large adult in any weight of yarn, from fingering to bulky. The knitter has only to knit a generous swatch with yarn and needles of her/his choice and plug the resulting gauge information into the charted instructions and schematics provided. Highly recommended for all knitting collections." - "Copyright 2002 Cahners Business Information, Inc., Library Journal"

"If you are looking for simple patterns in a certain size at a specific gauge, this book is for you."

"This book is an excellent resource . . . an idea that every knitter and spinner of handspun yarns has been waiting for!"

"The effect is one of a functional notebook you’ll use, rather than a coffee-table book to be handled carefully."

"By giving us instructions . . .Ann Budd frees a knitter to pick up any yarn and create a custom garment."

"Pair it with a stitch pattern guide and a good technique book and you’ll be set for life."

Offering charts and plans for making infant to adult-sized projects, this unique book provides knitters with a complete resource of over 350 patterns for caps, tams, scarves, vests, sweaters, mittens, gloves, and socks that are written for multiple gauges to accommodate all weights of yarn from bulky to fingering. Also included are the basics of pattern design and alteration to allow for the addition of different types of texture and colour patterns or the modification of existing patterns to accommodate more gauges. Patterns are also accompanied by an assortment of ideas for edgings and finishes, further expanding design options.

Ann Budd is managing editor of Interweave Knits. She won the 2000 Master Knitter certificate from the Knitting Guild of America. She lives in Boulder, Colorado.