Loads of beautiful stitch patterns presented in the written-out format (rather than the vastly inferior charted format). I have the newest edition and the pictures and text are clear and not at all blurry or 'photocopied' looking like some of the other reviewers have said. ( )

This is the first of 4 volumes in which Barbara Walker presents over 550 knitting stitch patterns. Each stitch pattern has a b&w photo, and line by line instructions for creating the pattern. The number of stitches need to create a pattern is noted. This is especially useful when patterns have increases and decreases.

Chapters are arranged according to some technique common to all patterns: Simple knit-purl combinations; ribbings; color-change patterns; slip-stitch patterns; twist stitch patterns; fancy texture; patterns made with yarn-over stitches; eyelet patterns; lace; cables; and cable-stitch patterns.

An alphabetic index makes it easy to locate any stitch by name.

At the end of the patterns there is a wonderful author note: "Dear Reader - Do you know any knitting pattern that is not included in this book? I'd like to add your pattern to my collection.".... In the subsequent volumes of this series, Walker includes many patterns sent by readers of this original volume. She give proper credit.

Barbara Walker is a knitting hero for me. Of all the knitting writers, I have learned the most from her. For a biography on the web see: http://www.nownj.org/njNews/2005/0116... ( )

The best stitch library ever. ( )

The first of four now-classic volumes cataloging knitting stitch patterns. Each pattern is illustrated by a black and white photograph, along with clear written directions. There are also some color plates illustrating patterns that use more than one color.

I have the original hardcover versions, but Schoolhouse Press has reprinted it in softcover. ( )

The first of four volumes (so far) cataloging stitch patterns. Each one is illustrated with a black and white photograph, and clear directions are provided; a small number of color plates illustrate the patterns that involve more than one color. The closest thing to a comprehensive collection that I've seen so far. ( )