Knitting in Plain English

Knitting in Plain English is one of those books that simply requires elevation to the top of the "Useful Knitting Guides" lists. Maggie Righetti approaches knitwear from multiple perspectives: As a teacher, she seeks to lessen your anxiety about knitting and making mistakes while simultaneously teaching you to look closely and careful BEFORE you cast on. Her chapter on how you can tell what's wrong with the pattern by the way the Model is posed should be required reading for every knitwear designer and knitwear publishing company. As a knitter she seeks to expand your knowledge of yarn, needles, and technique to ease your transition into this wonderful world. As a designer, she spends a considerable amount of time and ink ensuring that show more you have enough knowledge about garment design, ease, pattern, shaping, and fit to help you create those first sweaters and vests with ease.

I purchased this book when it was reissued and it was/is a worthwhile buy. Sometimes I read the chapter on model posing just for a good chuckle but the knowledge is invaluable. show less

This knitting book was the first book of its kind that I actually read in the same way I would read a mystery or fiction book. The author, Maggie Righetti, talks about how she has grown into a proficient knitter. She demystifies knitting for the beginning knitter and finds understanding with the more experienced knitter. This book is not about the newer trends in arm and hand knitting but discusses the many stitches and techniques that knitters have been using for years. She uses easy to understand instructions and talks the reader through some of the common mistakes knitters run into without overwhelming with too much to say. She has an easy style that is helpful and surprisingly engaging. Who thought a book on knitting could be so show more entertaining? I highly recommend this book for beginning knitters who want an overview of the subject and/or experienced knitters who want to share the knowledge of a knitter who truly enjoys her craft and wants to share her expertise in a non-threatening way with others show less

I didn’t know I needed another knitting book until I happened to pick this one up at the library. Lots of “why didn’t I think of that” tips as well as explanations of how things work. Now to pick up more ring markers. . .

The explanations are concise, clear, and thorough, but some of the text is a bit clunky an dated.

The instructions are written with humor and simplicity - a pleasure to read, if not to knit.

I learned to knit from this book nearly 20 years ago. A good beginners reference and still part of my knitting library.

Practical, must have for all knitters. Especially good reference for beginning knitters -- I wish I had found this book much earlier in my knitting life.