The Knitter's Book of Yarn

Clara Parkes, publisher of KnittersReview.com, has written this book in order to turn knitters into “yarn whisperers” - people who can pick up a skein of yarn, examine the twist and the fibers it contains, and naturally understand what it wants to be. Clara starts off with a section on fiber foundations in which she examines protein, cellulose, cellulosic and synthetic fibers at the microscopic level, explaining the characteristics of each fiber and how to evaluate quality. She covers dyeing, spinning methods and plying. For each type of yarn construction, whether it be single, two-ply, three-ply, four-ply, cabled, textured, boucle, brushed or chenille, Clara asked some of the most creative and inquisitive minds in the knitting world to design an assortment of patterns to let you see and play with that type of yarn to experience its behavioral tendencies. There are hats, gloves and mittens, socks, bags, shawls and several tops – pullovers and cardigans. Knowing what you’ll know after reading Clara’s book will enable you to substitute yarns with impunity for whatever pattern you choose.