best new knitting books

Knitting, Crochet and Crafts

Find fun, easy craft ideas and instructions, 42 of the best new knitting books for 2024 and beyond.

Are you looking for high-quality knitting books that will teach you interesting knitting techniques or give you lovely knitting patterns to work on? If so, this page of knitting books is a resource we hope you’ll find helpful. The following is a list of knitting books we’ve reviewed; you’ll find in-depth book reviews of each title posted on our website. Our reviews include a summary of the knitting projects included in each book, plus a list of the best things about each title and a list of things to be aware of before you buy each book.

1. Fair Isle Knitting: 22 Traditional Patterns from Where the Atlantic Meets the North Sea

Fair Isle Knitting Book: 22 Traditional Patterns from Where the Atlantic Meets the North Sea by Carina Olsson, Published by Trafalgar Square Books

• Click here to check out our book review of Fair Isle Knitting by Carina Olsson.
• Click here to shop for this book at Amazon.

2. Vivian Hoxbro’s Knitting Handbook: 8 Schools of Modular Knitting

Vivian Hoxbro’s Knitting Handbook: 8 Schools of Modular Knitting

• Click here to check out our book review of Vivian Hoxbro’s Knitting Handbook .

3. Handknits From Rauma, Norway: 30 New Takes on Traditional Scandinavian Designs

Handknits From Rauma, Norway — a Knitting Pattern Book by Bente Presterud, Published by Trafalgar Square Books

• Click here to check out our book review of Handknits From Rauma, Norway .
• Click or tap here to shop for this book at Amazon.

4. Norwegian Sweaters & Jackets: 37 Stunning Scandinavian Patterns

Norwegian Sweaters and Jackets Knitting Pattern Book: 37 Stunning Scandinavian Patterns

• Click here to check out our book review of Norwegian Sweaters & Jackets .

5. Jorid Linvik’s Big Book of Knits for Kids:Over 45 Distinctive Scandinavian Patterns

6. selbu mittens: discover the rich history of a norwegian knitting tradition with over 500 charts and 35 classic patterns.

Selbu Mittens: Discover the Rich History of a Norwegian Knitting Tradition with Over 500 Charts and 35 Classic Patterns

• Click here to check out our book review of Selbu Mittens .

7. Jorid Linvik’s Big Book of Christmas Knits

Jorid Linvik’s Big Book of Christmas Knits

• Click here to find my detailed book review of Jorid Linvik’s Big Book of Christmas Knits

8. Lace Knitting: 40 Openwork Patterns, 30 Lovely Projects, Countless Ideas and Inspiration

Lace Knitting Book by Denise Samson, Published by Trafalgar Square Books

• Click here to view a detailed book review of this title.

9. Cable Knits From Nordic Lands

Cable Knits From Nordic Lands by Ivar Asplund, published by Trafalgar Square Books

The featured projects included in this book are wearable cable-knit garments and accessories including sweaters, vests, hats and many others. The author of this book is both an expert knitter and an expert teacher, and his expertise shines through in virtually every aspect of this book. One of the things I appreciate most about this book: It is both a pattern book and a stitch dictionary, and it includes a section that’s devoted to showing you cable stitch patterns that you could incorporate into your own knit designs if you are inclined to do your own design work.

Learn More About This Book:

• Click here to check out our detailed book review of Cable Knits From Nordic Lands.

10. Colorful Knit Soxx

Colorful Knit Soxx by Kerstin Balke, A Sock Knitting Pattern Book published by Stackpole Books A Sock Knitting Pattern Book

Banish boring socks from your drawers! These 26 sock patterns will give you bunches of choices for ultra-creative, impressive socks that are suitable for either men or women. Most of the patterns in this book are patterned socks, but a few of the patterns are striped or solid-colored.

• Click here to check out our detailed book review of Colorful Knit Soxx.

11. Traditional Danish Sweaters

Traditional Danish Sweaters: 200 Stars and Other Classic Motifs From Historic Sweaters, published by Trafalgar Square Books

• Click here to see my book review of Traditional Danish Sweaters .

12. Seed Stitch: Beyond Knit 1, Purl 2

Seed Stitch Book by Rosemary Drysdale, Published by Sixth&Spring Books; This photo of the book cover accompanies our Seed Stitch knitting book review, posted online at KnittingCrochetCrafts.com

• Click here to find my detailed book review of Seed Stitch: Beyond Knit 1, Purl 2

13. Japanese Knitting Stitches From Tokyo’s Kazekobo Studio

Japanese Knitting Stitches From Tokyo’s Kazekobo Studio, a stitch dictionary by Yoko Hatta, published by Tuttle Publishing

• Click here to find my detailed book review of Japanese Knitting Stitches From Tokyo’s Kazekobo Studio

14. 250 Japanese Stitches: The Original Pattern Bible by Hitomi Shida

250 Japanese Knitting Stitches: The Original Pattern Bible by Hitomi Shida, published by Tuttle Publishing

• Click here to read my detailed book review of this title.

15. Keiko Okamoto’s Japanese Knitting Stitches: A Stitch Dictionary With 150 Amazing Patterns

Keiko Okamoto’s Japanese Knitting Stitches: A Stitch Dictionary With 150 Amazing Patterns, published by Tuttle Publishing

• Click here to check out my detailed book review of Keiko Okamoto’s Japanese Knitting Stitches.

16. Finger Knitting for Kids

Finger Knitting for Kids Book: Super Cute & Easy Things to Make by Eriko Teranishi, published by Tuttle Publishing

17. Socks From Around Norway

Socks From Around Norway: Over 40 Traditional Knitting Patterns Inspired by Norwegian Folk-Art Collections, by Nina Granlund Sæther, published by Trafalgar Square Books

This lovely book is part knitting pattern book, part sock knitting instruction manual and part history book. In it, the author, Nina Granlund Sæther, explores the history of sock knitting in Norway. She shares interesting details about historic socks that she has learned from perusing various museum archives and historical society materials. Along with the history, she also shares 41 sock knitting patterns she has created by reinterpreting the antique Norwegian socks she discovered in museum archives. Her socks are suitable projects for contemporary knitters, and at the same time, they are clearly reminiscent of their vintage inspiration pieces. The results are patterns that are both classic and timely. This book is really a treasure. If you’re interested in sock knitting, you’ll definitely want to check it out. Learn More About This Book:

• Click here to read our detailed book review of this title.

18. Maja’s Swedish Mittens

Maja’s Swedish Mittens, a Knitting Pattern Book Published By Trafalgar Square Books

• Click here to see my detailed book review of this title.

19. Knitting for the Fun of It!

Knitting for the Fun of It! Book by Frida Ponten, Published by Trafalgar Square Books. The book cover, pictured here, shows several of the colorful knitting projects you’ll learn how to make using the patterns and instructions included.

• Sophisticated

Some of these designs manage to be all 3 of the above at once. Although there are several solid-colored knitting projects included in the book, most of these patterns are daring and colorful without being over the edge. They’re exactly the pieces you want to reach for when you’re ensemble looks a little too blah — a colorful chevron scarf; a pair of stripey multicolored socks; mittens that incorporate several different colorwork patterns; and more. The book will even teach you how to dye your own yarns. What really surprised me, though: how many easy patterns are in the book, considering their level of visual sophistication. Not all the patterns in the book are easy, but there are quite a few of them. Learn More About This Book:

• Click here to check out our book review of Knitting for the Fun of It!

20. The Big 3 Knitting Techniques

The Big 3 Knitting Techniques Book by Ann-Mari Nilsson, Published by Trafalgar Square Books

• Stranded colorwork knitting (like Fair Isle)
• Slip stitch knitting
• Relief stitches / textured knitting

Learn More About The Big 3 Knitting Techniques Book:

• Click here to check out our detailed book review of this title.
• Click here to shop for this book at the publisher’s website.

21. Knockout Knit Hats and Hoods Knockout Knit Hats and Hoods, a Knitting Pattern Book by Diane Serviss, published by Stackpole Books. If hats are your go-to knitting projects — or if you’ve never knitted a hat before, but you want to try it — you’ll definitely want to take a look at this lovely new hat pattern book. All the patterns in this book are hats, hoods and hooded cowls. Some of the designs are ideal for everyday wear, and a few of them are more fanciful. All of them are practical, wearable styles that you could count on to keep your head warm on chilly days. The short version of my book review: I LOVE this book and highly recommend it! Find Out More About Knockout Knit Hats and Hoods : Get more details in my book review of Knockout Knit Hats and Hoods. Click here to shop for this book at Amazon. 22. Dogs on Sweaters: Knitting Patterns for 18 Different Dog Breeds

Dogs on Sweaters: Knitting Patterns for 18 Different Dog Breeds by Sally Muir and Joanna Osborne, Published by Trafalgar Square Books

• Click here to read my detailed book review of Dogs on Sweaters.

23. Winter Knits From Scandinavia: 24 Patterns for Hats, Mittens and Socks

Winter Knits From Scandinavia by Jenny Alderbrant (Also Known as JennyPenny), published by Trafalgar Square Books.

• Click here to check out our detailed book review of Winter Knits From Scandinavia.
• Click here to shop for this book at Amazon.com.

24. Dimensional Tuck Knitting

Dimensional Tuck Knitting Book by Tracy Purtscher, Published by Sixth&Spring Books

Imagine if you were able to pin-tuck a piece of knitting in the same general sort of way you can create pintucks and pleats on fabric. Does that sound crazy? Well, guess what — you can do just that! Prepare to have your mind blown when you see how this is done! This is quite simply an amazing knitting book. If you enjoy highly textured knitting projects, you are going to LOVE this. The texture can sometimes resemble cables in a way, but it also looks like its own unique thing. Dimensional Tuck Knitting is a technique book, project book and stitch dictionary, all rolled into one volume. The projects are all ultra-cool and extremely sophisticated. The short version of my book review of this title: Buy the book. It is more than worth its asking price. Learn More About This Book:

• Click here to check out our full review of Dimensional Tuck Knitting

25. 60 More Quick Baby Blankets: Cozy Knits in Cascade Superwash Yarns

If you need some GORGEOUS, playful and fun new baby blankets, click the photo above to shop for one of the hottest new baby blanket pattern collections available! This book is called 60 More Quick Baby Blankets Book. It’s published by Sixth&Spring Books.

If you’d be interested in knitting one or more baby blanket patterns, this book is exactly what you need. You’d want to pick this book over other competing titles for a few different reasons:

• Many competing pattern books would only give you in the neighborhood of 20-25 patterns for this price –but this book gives you a whopping 60 patterns! Folks, that’s a spectacular value for the money you’re spending here.
• This book gives you such a delightful variety of patterns that you’ll be spoiled for choice. Whether you want to explore colorwork techniques, or make a solid-colored afghan — whether you want to try new textured stitch patterns, or stick to ultra-easy stockinette stitch, this book will offer you suitable choices.
• The projects featured in this book are all truly appealing. They look like they’d be worth the investment of time and yarn.
• Check out our detailed book review of 60 More Quick Baby Blankets .

26. Arne & Carlos Favorite Designs

Arne & Carlos Favorites, published by Trafalgar Square Books. This book features Scandinavian style knitting and crochet patterns for Christmas ornaments, Easter eggs, dolls, doll clothes, adult clothing and accessories and more. Click the photo to shop for this book on Amazon.

One of the highlights of the book is the excellent selection of knitting patterns for ball-shaped Christmas ornaments adorned with fun Scandinavan design motifs — heart motifs, angels, squirrels, pigs and many others. Most of the patterns in the book are for knitters, but there are a couple of spectacular crocheted blankets and a few other crochet projects you’ll probably want to make. There are also a few really cool embroidery projects too. Learn More About This Book:

• Click here to check out our book review of this title

27. Japanese Knitting Stitch Bible

Japanese Knitting Stitch Bible by Hitomi Shida, Published by Tuttle Publishing

• Click here to shop for this book at Knitpicks.

28. Martin Storey’s Afghan Knits

Martin Storey’s Afghan Knits: A Knitting Pattern Book Published by Trafalgar Square Books

Learn More Martin Storey’s Afghan Knits :

• Click here to check out our detailed book review of Martin Storey’s Afghan Knits

29. The Alterknit Stitch Dictionary

Alterknit Knitting Stitch Dictionary Published by Interweave Press

• Click here to check out our book review of the Alterknit Stitch Dictionary .

30. 6,000+ Pullover Possibilities

Design a Custom-Knit Sweater With Melissa Leapman’s New Book, 6,000+ Pullover Possibilities

• Click here for our book review of 6,000+ Pullover Possibilities by Melissa Leapman .

31. The Cable Knitter’s Guide: 50 Patterns, 25 Projects, Countless Tips and Ideas

The Cable Knitter’s Guide: 50 Patterns, 25 Projects, Countless Tips and Ideas by Denise Samson, Published by Trafalgar Square Books

If you’re interested in aran knitting or learning how to knit cables, this is the book for you. It’s part knitting stitch dictionary, part knitting technique book and part knitting pattern book. The book’s longer-than-average length and exceptional patterns make it an excellent buy, offering you high value in exchange for the money you spend. The book includes patterns for intricate throws, interesting cabled socks, classic sweaters, and much more. One of the best things about the book: The author has created instructional videos teaching you how to knit each cable. There are QR codes printed right in the book that you can scan with your mobile phone. Scanning the QR codes will take you right to each video online. It’s a convenient way to see a demonstration of each pattern. Learn More About This Book:

• Click here to check out my book review of The Cable Knitter’s Guide by Denise Samson.

32. Vogue Knitting Shawls and Wraps 2 by the Editors of Vogue Knitting Magazine

Learn How to Knit a Variety of Stunning Shawls and Wraps Using the Patterns in Vogue Knitting Shawls and Wraps 2 by the Editors of Vogue Knitting Magazine. This Delightful Pattern Book Is Published by Sixth & Spring Books.

• Click here to check our our book review of Vogue Knitting Shawls & Wraps 2.

33. 60 Quick Knits for Little Kids

60 Quick Knits for Little Kids, published by Sixth&Spring Books — Knit fun, playful and fashionable children’s blankets, sweaters, dresses, ponchos, hats, scarves, mittens and many other accessories.

In a world where newborn knitting patterns are somewhat oversupplied and cute, usable toddler and children’s clothing patterns can be comparatively harder to find, this book stands out as being an excellent value and a must-have resource. Learn More About This Book:

34. Knit Yourself In: Inventive Patterns to Tell Your Story in the Danish “Hen Knitting” Tradition :

Knit Yourself In, a Knitting Pattern Book Published by Trafalgar Square Books

• Click here to check out a detailed book review of Knit Yourself In,
• click here to see project photos and more info available at the product page for the book at Amazon.

35. Jorid Linvik’s Big Book of Knitted Socks

Jorid Linvik’s Big Book of Knitted Socks, published by Trafalgar Square Books

Learn More About Jorid Linvik’s Big Book of Knitted Socks:

• Click here to find our detailed book review of this title

36. Jorid Linvik’s Big Book of Knitted Mittens

Jorid Linvik's Big Book of Knitted Mittens: 45 Distinctive Scandinavian Knitting Patterns

• Click here to get more details in our in-depth book review of this title.

37. The Field Guide to Knitted Birds by Arne & Carlos

Field Guide to Knitted Birds by Arne & Carlos, Published by Trafalgar Square Books.

Learn More About The Field Guide to Knitted Birds :

• Check out our detailed book review of The Field Guide to Knitted Birds .

38. Japanese Knitting Book by Michiyo

Japanese Knitting: A Book of 23 Japanese Knitting and Crochet Patterns by Michiyo

• Click here to check out our book review of Japanese Knitting by Michiyo

39. Casual Weekend Knits by Andi Javori, published by Leisure Arts

Casual Weekend Knits, a Knitting Pattern Book Published by Leisure Arts

• Click or tap here to check out my detailed book review of Casual Weekend Knits by Andi Javori.

40. Slow Fashion Made Fast

Slow Fashion Made Fast by Alexandra Tavel, published by Leisure Arts

Knitting is notorious for being a slooooow process. But sometimes you can speed it up substantially if you use chunky yarns and large knitting needles. That’s the premise behind this stylish new knitting book; you use big, hefty yarns to create the 12 on-trend patterns included in this book. The book includes patterns for knitting wearable accessories and home decor items — a lovely mix of designs to use for yourself, your home and to give as gifts to others.

Learn More About This Book

• Click here to check out our detailed book review of Slow Fashion Made Fast.

41. The Beginner’s Guide to Mosaic Knitting

The Beginner’s Guide to Mosaic Knitting by Melissa Leapman, published by Leisure Arts

Learn More About The Beginner’s Guide to Mosaic Knitting

• Click here to find our detailed book review of this title.

42. Knit Socks for Those You Love

Knit Socks for Those You Love: 11 Family-Friendly Sock Designs in a Variety of Sizes, a knitting pattern book by Edie Eckman, published by Leisure Arts

Learn More About Knit Socks for Those You Love:

These are just a few of the knitting books we’ve reviewed here at Knittingcrochetcrafts.com. We’re always in search of fantastic new knitting books, and we’re updating this page frequently with new reviews. Please be sure to subscribe to our knitting and crochet newsletter if you want to be alerted about even more fantastic knitting books as they become available.

Related Resources

• Crochet Books
• Best Crochet Books for Beginners
• Best Crochet Baby Pattern Books
• Best Crochet Motif Books
• Best Crochet Granny Square Pattern Books

Knitting Tools and Supplies

• A Beginner’s Guide to Knitting Needles
• Yarn for Knitting and Crochet

Posted By: Amy Solovay

About Your Book Reviewer — Amy Solovay is a freelance writer with a background in textile manufacturing. She learned to crochet as a small child and learned how to knit as a teenager. After earning two degrees, one of which is in textile design, she launched a career in the textile industry. She has worked as a textile print colorist, knit designer and director of design for various Los Angeles based fabric manufacturers. Later she transitioned to writing about crochet, knitting, crafts and other topics for major media outlets. She enjoys designing crochet and other craft patterns, and she invites you to make use of them. This page was last updated on 1-12-2024.

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47 Best Knitting Books For Beginners To Advanced Knitters

By Jodie Morgan

March 30, 2024

| Published:

May 22, 2023

The best knitting books make you want to get knitting! Sifting through the beautiful photography of the fabulous knitted designs is great! Here are my recommendations and reviews.

Note: If you click a link on this page and make a purchase, I may receive a commission, but at no extra cost to you. Learn More.

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My Quick Recommendations

• My Top Pick – Knitting Rules by Stephanie Pearl-McPhee
• Best For Beginners – Knitting Gritty - Knitting for The Absolute Beginner
• Best Knitting Pattern Book – A Second Treasury of Knitting Patterns by Barbara Walker

I reviewed, fact checked and updated this post on May 22, 2023.

Table Of Contents

• Best Knitting Book For Beginners
• Knitting Socks Books
• Japanese Knitting Stitch Bible
• Lace Knitting Books
• Baby Projects Knitting Books
• Brioche Knitting Books

Knitting Books Inspire and Delight!

There are knitting books covering help, stitches, techniques, tutorials, and stunning photography. They guide you on a project you’re tackling. Great for inspiration on what to knit next. Having the best books on your bookshelf or in your e-reader library is essential.

Best Knitting Books For Knitters

What is the best knitting book for beginners.

The best knitting book for beginners is –

1. Knitting Gritty – Knitting for The Beginner

Knitting Gritty – Knitting for The Beginner is an invaluable resource for those taking their first steps of their knitting journey. Designed with the absolute beginner in mind, this book expertly breaks down the essential techniques, tools, and terminology in an easy-to-understand and engaging way. One of the reasons beginners will find this book particularly helpful is its comprehensive step-by-step instructions, accompanied by clear illustrations and photographs, which take the guesswork out of learning new stitches and patterns. This book also offers invaluable advice on selecting the right materials and tools, troubleshooting common issues, and understanding the importance of gauge and tension. Something I certainly appreciate understanding, even now as a knitter of many years.

2. Patty Lyons’ Knitting Bag Of Tricks

Learn handy tips to improve your knitting stitch skills from expert Patty Lyons. Here’s the book trailer so you know what to expect.

3. Knitting Rules by Stephanie Pearl-McPhee.

Guidelines for creating garments and accessories. The author mixes humor with short-cuts.

4. Knitting Workshop (A Large Pattern Collection)

by Elizabeth Zimmermann

Excellent hints, tips, and great humor from the author. She’s well known in the community. Her knowledge and skill led to instructional books. She revolutionized the modern practice of knitting.

This book deciphers what looks like a foreign language with the terms. Understand reading patterns. Learn the basics, including using two colors.

Also, discover Elizabeth’s Percentage System (EPS) for sweater design, yoke-style sweaters, drop-shoulder sweaters, garter stitch, lace, arans, guernseys, and fair isles. Adaptable, fun patterns to try when learning to knit.

5. Stitch ‘n Bitch: The Knitter’s Handbook

by Debbie Stoller

Something for everyone in this book, whether you’re a beginner knitter, intermediate, or advanced. There are 40 fun projects, and handy skills and tips for learning how to knit. The current price is affordable.

6. Knitting Without Tears

An introduction to designing sweaters. Learn how to create sweaters to fit anybody with any yarn. The book is full of practical tips and tricks for improving your knitting stitches. Full of skill building with ways to create your patterns. Elizabeth Zimmerman’s books are loved by thousands of knitters.

7. The Ultimate Knitting Book

by Vogue Knitting

The new version has 65 extra pages, photos and tutorials. This knitting book includes how-tos, methods, circular and flat knitting, cast on/bind off techniques, lace, cable, brioche, tools to use, and how to correct mistakes.

Written in a clear and easy-to-follow manner. Suitable for beginners to advanced knitters. The basics include English and Continental knitting style, increases, decreases, joining yarns, knitting gauge/charts/symbols, knitting in the round, and finishing techniques.

8. Elizabeth Zimmermann’s Knitter’s Almanac

This provides a rough framework for a variety of knitting projects. It teaches you about design choices and techniques. It’s readable and fun with great writing. Suitable for advanced knitters wanting to further their designs and creativity.

9. The Principles of Knitting

by June Hemmons Hiatt

The Principles of Knitting includes everything you need to build skills and confidence. How-tos, knitting methods, circular and flat knitting. Includes decorative techniques plus so much more. Written in a clear and easy-to-follow manner. Suitable for beginners to advanced knitters.

10. Aran Knitting

by Alice Starmore

Discusses everything about the history and traditions of Aran Knitting with wonderful patterns. People love Alice Starmore’s intricate designs. Detailed patterns for men and women. The cable designs are interesting. You learn the historical elements of Aran.

11. You Can Knit That

by Amy Herzog

A simple reference book and pattern collection covering sweater-making. Suitable for those knitting a sweater for the first time. Or those looking to expand your skills to sweaters in styles you’ve never tried before.

12. 200 Fair Isle Designs

by Mary Jane Mucklestone

Fair Isle knitting looks complicated, but it needn’t be. Mary Jane Mucklestone steps you through how to use the stranded colorwork technique. This suits beginners to more advanced knitters.

Includes an actual-size photograph of the design, clack and white chart, a color chart, a color variation chart, and a repeat chart for each of the 200 motifs

13. The Knitter’s Book of Wool

by Clara Parkes

Clara Parkes, an authority in the knitting industry, writes about nine wools. The book discusses her lifelong love of yarn. It covers her experience with spinning, knitting, and observing wool. Understand how wool behaves and yarns in knitting. Packed full of information. An interesting read.

14. A Second Treasury of Knitting Patterns

by Barbara Walker

This has clear explanations. Easy for anyone to follow. The designs are simple, and a beginner could do them with little difficulty. There are enough designs to please the beginner knitter and an experienced knitter looking for a challenge.

15. The Knowledgeable Knitter

by Margaret Radcliffe

This knitting book answers questions about the art of knitting. Topics covered: patterns, yarns, needles, planning projects, changing a pattern, shaping and fitting, and borders and embellishment.

16. The Knitter’s Handy Book of Patterns

by Ann Budd

Includes basic knitting patterns like sweaters, hats, a scarf (see my guide to the best yarn for knitting scarves ), gloves, mittens, and socks.

17. The Knitting Answer Book

It contains common problems a knitter faces. Excellent for beginners and advanced knitters. This guides you to be a better knitter.

18. The Knitter’s Book of Yarn

This informative book of yarn makes things clearer. Make wiser yarn choices! The author explores the qualities of plys of yarn. Each section of the book includes patterns. The patterns showcase the best qualities of each yarn. One book for yarn lovers.

19. 55 Christmas Balls to Knit

by Carlos Zachrison & Arne Nerjordet

Full of quick and easy knitting patterns for the festive season. Arne and Carlos translate traditional Scandinavian knitwear designs into individual patterns perfect for holiday décor. Hand knitted items to suit beginners and experts.

You’ll find step-by-step instructions, how-to tips, and full-color photos of great knitting ideas.

20. AlterKnit Stitch Dictionary

by Andrea Rangel

A stitch dictionary for Stranded colorwork with a modern twist. Explore the 200 motifs derived from graphic design elements and colorwork charts. Learn to use stranded colorwork in design with five accompanying projects, including mitts, cowls, shawls and sweaters.

21. Seamless Sweaters in 2 Weeks

by Marie Greene

Marie Greene’s twenty gorgeous seamless knit patterns make knitting a sweater simple. Struggled to complete a pullover or been too intimidated to start a cardigan? These seamless, top-down designs change the way you think about sweaters.

22. Knitted Dinosaurs

by Tina Barrett

Patterns for cute dinosaurs.

23. Friday Night Knitting Club

A fun, light-hearted read. No knitting needles or yarn required. As a knitter, this well-written, heartwarming story resonates.

What Are The Best Sock Knitting Books?

There is an enormous amount of sock knitting pattern books with creative designs and stitches. Never knitted socks? I’ve got you covered.

24. Getting Started Knitting Socks

A handbook for navigating difficult knitting. Filled with photographs and illustrations. Beginners and advanced knitters create gorgeous socks. Plenty of tips and designs for sock knitting.

25. The Knitter’s Book of Socks

The Knitter’s Book of Socks talks about what makes a great sock. Learn about strength, elasticity, and wicking away moisture. There are patterns with fabulous designs and colorwork.

Some patterns are suitable for beginners with simple knit and purl combinations. It includes intricate designs with cables and delicate lace.

26. Knit 2 Socks in 1

by Safiyyah Talley

Learn the magic of turning one long sock into a pair. There is a range of designs. A unique method of knitting two socks at a time.

27. Sock Knitting Master Class

Covering the skills of sock knitting construction top-down and toe-up construction. Seventeen wonderful sock patterns with instructional illustrations. Ann Budd’s book has excellent Amazon reviews. Read Amazon books either on an e-reader or paperback.

28. Sock Architecture

by Laura Neal

This is an amazing resource! Great for beginner knitters and those with more experience. Includes 17 design patterns, most of them cover five sizes.

29. Custom Socks – Top Up Or Down Down

by Kate Atherley

Whether you knit them toe-up or top-down, getting the right fit on hand-knit socks is a major challenge! In this book, Kate Atherley teaches what you need to understand sock fit and make a pair of socks.

30. Folk Socks

by Nancy Bush

Good for the experienced sock knitter. This knitter book includes the history of socks and great sock patterns.

What Are The Best Baby Knitter Books?

Looking for adorable baby knits? Don’t miss these, they’re full of cute, soft, snug designs for an infant loved one.

31. The Ultimate Book of Baby Knits

These include gorgeous baby blankets/afghans, teddy bears, bootees, a hooded wrap, a snug duffel coat, felted slippers, and 50 contemporary projects.

32. Baby Knits for Beginners

by Debbie Bliss

Excellent for knitting for babies. This book teaches the basic knitting steps and techniques. Included are 15 super-cute knits to try like bootees, blankets, beanie hat, sweater, and baby shoes.

What Are The Best Japan Knits Books?

For those of us who do not read Japanese, why would you buy a Japanese Knitting Book? Japan Knitting Books have beautiful photography of the finished knitted items. Knitting is big in Japan! The good news is they work on a chart system.

Japan knitting books opens up a world of fabulous designs. Japanese patterns differ from the written patterns of European and Western countries. They include charted patterns rather than written row-by-row.

33. Japanese Knitting Stitch Bible

by Hitomi Shida

Original designs and variations on a range of classic stitches result in intricate patterns. This is perfect for the experienced knitter who’s looking for new stitches.

What Is The Best Brioche Knitting Book?

The Brioche stitch is a knitting technique, creating a reversible ribbed design. Perfect for sweaters, hats, and mittens. Brioche Knitting Books on the market cover gorgeous patterns. The brioche stitch is a challenge to learn!

34. Knitting Brioche

by Nancy Marchant

Author Nancy Marchant provides an array of variations on the brioche stitch. Includes beautiful object patterns to get started, from simple to more challenging. The pictures of the techniques and swatches are excellent.

35. Knitting Brioche Stitch Socks

by Barbara Sander

Great for easy-to-make socks with wonderful warmth and comfort. Choose the right socks for you and look at the inspiration in this book. A mainstay in your knitting skills.

36. Knitting Fresh Brioche Creating Two Color

A fabulous foundation for brioche knitting. Understand how to make brioche fabric to create brioche patterns. Sharing tips, projects, and adventures.

37. Knit One Below

by Elyse Duvekot

The author presents her K1B technique with clear illustrations. It includes gorgeous photos and detailed instructions. For beginner-beginners, it’s worth giving k1b a try. The technique is interesting, and the results are charming. It doesn’t take much time to learn the technique.

What Are The Best Lace Books?

Here are great lace knitting books to consider.

38. Knitted Lace of Estonia

This a history of knitting in Estonia and traditional shawl design.

39. A Gathering of Lace

by Meg Swanson

Most projects are suited to knitters with experience with lace. The shawls are stunning.

What Are The Best Finger Knits Books?

Finger knitting is great fun. Let these books show you how!

40. Knitting Without Needles

by Anne Weil

Great projects to create objects for the home, gifts, scarves, blankets, and the cutest big bunny. Easy to follow instructions. It’s also a great introduction to the arm knitting technique . Trying out the creations should be such fun!

41. Finger Knitting Fun

by Vickie Howell

So much fun for kids 🙂 There are plenty of projects to interest them. Simple directions and lots of illustrations. From jewelry and wearable accessories to wall art, gifts, and room decorations.

Still Looking For More Recommendations?

Try the following options.

If you want to try your hand at the Portuguese knitting technique, this one book is an excellent choice.

42. Portuguese Knitting: A guide to traditional Portuguese Methods, with 20 inspirational projects, by Rosa Pomar

Containing history and interesting info, it also includes 20 projects to try your hand at this technique of knitting.

43. Portuguese Style of Knitting – History, Traditions, and Techniques by Andrea Wong

It talks about the history of Portuguese knitting. Andrea also shares her learning this skill as a child in Brazil. You will learn all the basics: cast on, knit and purl stitches, and bind off. After mastering a smooth tension, there’s guidance for lace, cables, double knitting, and two-color knitting.

44. Rowan: 40 Years: 40 Iconic Hand-Knit Designs

Featuring popular knitwear designers as Kaffe Fassett, Martin Storey, Louisa Harding, and Sarah Hatton. It focuses on sweaters, cardigans, and wraps.

45. Home and Away by Hannah Fettig

Beautiful and doable modern patterns, inspiration with beautiful photography.

46. Building Blocks Knitting Book

A great way to sharpen your knitting skills by knitting the squares in this book. Learn to knit cables, bobbles, knitting techniques, and how to use a chart.

47. Big Book of Loom Knitting

Easy to follow instructions, great pictures. Each knitting project lists the items and supplies you need. Tells you what to do to master Loom Knitting.

Others To Try

• The Urban Knit Book – Leeni Hoimela’s Knitting (It contains stylish sweaters and modern Nordic knitwear designs for quality handmade garments)
• A knit stitch reference guide
• Any Elizabeth Zimmerman Book
• Barnes And Noble Knitting Books
• A knitting magazine like Pom Pom Quarterly
• Movie inspired book for knitting projects like Star Wars
• Reader’s Digest Knitter’s Handbook by Montse Stanley

Plenty of great knitting books to start or add to your knitting resource library on your bookshelf or e-reader. Enjoy the new knowledge for your journey.

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About The Author

Jodie Morgan (Author & Founder)

[email protected] | Lives In: Regional Australia

Author: Jodie Morgan is a passionate knitter and blogger with 40+ years of experience currently living in regional Australia. Taught by her mother and wonderful grandmother “Mama”, she fell in love with crafting from a young age. When she’s not knitting, you’ll find her enjoying a cup of coffee with cream, or sharing helpful resources and tips with the online knitting community. Get to know Jodie and the team on our meet the team page.

Crunchbase | Flickr | LinkedIn | MuckRack | Ravelry | Twitter

Has anyone experienced using the Japanese Stitch Bible? I worry that I won’t be able to understand it.

Hi Peta, the Japanese Stitch Bible is a wealth of information with some stunning stitch patterns. The patterns are all charted, so take your time understanding each symbol. The charts are easy to follow and the pictures are helpful. Cheers Jodie

Is there a really great book for learning stranded knitting, floats and the best way to do them? I have a pattern and yarn, but all of the books seem to expect you to make one of their patterns. I splurged on a boyland knitworks colorwork sweater, so I’m anxious for some resources. Thank you!!

Hi Holly, back with some suggestions from some very kind experts. Mastering Color Knitting: Simple Instructions for Stranded, Intarsia, and Double Knitting by Melissa Leapman https://amzn.to/3hGESfk The Knitting Answer Book by Margaret Radcliffe, published by D&C https://amzn.to/2UZueXf Knitting With Two Colors by Meg Swansen and Amy Detjen https://amzn.to/2UXHADA The reader who recommended Knitting with Two Colors by Meg Swansen and Amy Detjen highly recommends it and said this- It’s nice book because, not only does it start at the beginning but then goes on with more details as one gets more experienced which usually happens as this kind of pattering is so addictive.

I encourage that person to knit a hat first using color-stranded patts to get used to tensioning the yarns without major puckering, the most likely problem many newbies encounter. Working in the round is an easier way to approach stranded patts, I think, because you’re only dealing with getting the tensioning good with just the knit rows first. Fortunately the Boyland Knits patts are set up for circular knitting so that cuts out the double whammy of getting it going smoothly with both knits and purls. Great advice to be sure 🙂 Good luck with your colorwork pursuits Holly! I am super excited for you.

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11/04/21 • Knitting •

Knitter Gifts: The Best New Knit Books of 2021

We are so lucky that many terrific new knit books come out every year. There are a plethora of great craft publishers who put out creative, original, educational new knitting books. Combined together, they provide a wealth of information, stitch techniques, patterns, and inspiration. If you’re looking for knitter gifts, then adding these knitting pattern books and stitch dictionaries under their tree is a great way to go.

Note: This post contains affiliate links.   That means I get a percentage of the sale when you click over and make a purchase. Your price doesn’t change. Thank you for your support.

Table of Contents

New How To Knit Books Including Specific Knitting Skills

If you’re a beginner how is just learning how to knit, then you’re going to want to make sure that you have the books that are geared just towards you. Of course, the knitting stitch dictionaries above will also be a great resource. But there are also some great new knitting books for people who are just learning the craft. Moreover, there are books for people who want to learn a specific niche of the craft in depth.

How to Knit : The only technique book you will ever need

If you are a brand new beginner to the craft then start here.

Guys Knit: The Instruction Manual: Techniques, Patterns, Video Links

Anyone can use this knitting book to learn how to knit. However, it’s specifically designed to attract male knitters and to break down some of the stereotypes people have about the fiber arts.

Adventure Cables: Brave New Stitch Crossings and 19 Patterns

This book specifically teaches you everything that you need to know about how to knit cables. Once you learn the instructions, you’ll be able to work with the 19 knit cable patterns included in the collection.

Brioche Knitting for Beginners and Beyond : Your Definitive Guide to Creating Colorful, Lusciously Textured Knitwear

Brioche knitting allows you to create terrific texture and graphic design with vertical striping. This is a book for brioche beginners who want to learn all that they can about this knitting niche.

French Knitting : 40 fast and fun i-cord creations with a mini knitting mill

Learn how to use a mini knitting mill to make iCord knits. But guess what? Even if you don’t have one of these fun little machines, you can still use all of the patterns in this book worked with traditional knitting methods. Have fun trying new things.

280 Japanese Lace Stitches : A Dictionary of Beautiful Openwork Patterns

There are several great ways to use stitch dictionaries. If you’re stuck on a pattern and need help figuring out how a stitch works, then you can turn to a stitch dictionary. If you’re looking for a stitch that you can repeat to create your own scarf or blanket, then you can find one in a stitch dictionary. And, of course, if you want to build new skills then stitch dictionaries can help you figure out what you might want to learn next. Moreover, if you want to design your own knitting patterns, then these books can be a terrific resource. Advanced knitters will find a lot of interesting new lace stitch patterns in this collection.

Knitter’s Stitch Collection

Here’s another one of the great new knitting books that provides you with knit stitches. It’s subtitled, “A creative guide to the 300 knitting stitches you really need to know.”

Nordic, Norwegian, Scandinavian, and Fair Isle Knit Books

It’s easy to get confused about the similarities and differences between these types of knitting. Generally speaking, Scandinavia refers to Denmark, Norway, and Sweden. Nordic is a broader term that includes these places as well as Finland, Iceland, and associated territories such as Greenland and the Faroe Islands.

When it comes to knitting, there’s actually a specific knitting technique called Norwegian knitting . But sometimes people simply refer to the pattern style as Norwegian (or Nordic, or Scandinavian). Fair Isle is also related to this knitting pattern style. IT comes from the Shetland Islands, which isn’t technically a Nordic country, but does have Nordic roots.

So, here are the new knitting books that embrace the color work and pattern style typically associated with Nordic, Norwegian, Scandinavian, and Fair Isle knitting.

The Nordic Knitting Primer : A Step-by-Step Guide to Scandinavian Colorwork

Start here if you want to get to know about this region’s knit colorwork. There are patterns for beginners and advanced knitters. Likewise, you’ll find designs for children as well as adults.

Knit Like A Norwegian : 30 Stunning Patterns from Scandinavia’s Top Designers

One of the best ways to learn a knitting style is to get inspiration from a range of different designers’ interpretations of that style. This is one of the new knitting books that will allow you to do that.

Knits from Northern Lands : 20 projects inspired by traditional knitting techniques from the Scottish Isles to Scandinavia

There are so many new knitting books inspired by this part of the world right now!

Knits from Around Norway : Over 40 Traditional Knitting Patterns Inspired by Norwegian Folk-Art Collections

The Amazon description includes: “With her trademark attention to detail and patience for painstaking reproduction of knitted patterns, based on archival photographs and examples preserved in museum collections, Nina guides readers through the history and origins of each design, in a fascinating step-by-step tour of Norwegian knitting tradition no knitter should be without.”

Handknits from Rauma, Norway : 30 New Takes on Traditional Norwegian Designs

Rauma Garn is a Norwegian Yarn Company founded in the 1920’s. Author Bente Presterud went through their archive of patterns to come up with the designs for this book. Lots of unique colorwork patterns.

Norwegian Mittens and Gloves: Over 25 Classic Designs for Warm Fingers and Stylish Hands

The title pretty much says it all. If you like to knit mittens then this collection will inspire you.

Knitting from Fair Isle : 15 contemporary designs inspired by tradition

Per the description on Amazon: “The book includes fisherman jumpers with high, crew and slash necks, a poncho, neck warmer, cowl and long scarf, fingerless gloves and hand and wrist warmers, as well as the traditional fisherman’s hats known as keps.”

Maja’s Swedish Socks : Over 35 Imaginative Patterns to Knit

If you love Swedish prints and knitting socks then this is one of the best new knitting books for you.

Jorid Linvik’s Big Book of Knitted Mittens : 45 Distinctive Scandinavian Patterns

If mittens are more your thing then this is the Scandinavian knit pattern book for you.

Icelandic Mittens: 25 Traditional Patterns Reimagined

Here’s another one of the new knitting books all about mittens. It’s always interesting to see traditional, classic designs updated with new yarns and color choices.

Selbu Patterns

The subtitle on this one says it all: “Discover the Rich History of a Norwegian Knitting Tradition with Over 400 Charts and Classic Designs for Socks, Hats, and Sweaters.” So if you’re looking for unique sweater design books, this might be on your radar.

Nordic Knits for Children

Some of the designs in this book are for little kids – ages 3-6. Others are for ages 7-9. And some of them are designed for all of those ages. You’ll find hats and scarves, dresses and sweaters in these pages.

Sweater Design Books and Other Garment / Accessories Knitting Pattern Books

Do you enjoy knitting things to wear? Some people love sweater design books. Others are looking for knitting pattern books filled with different accessories. Whether it’s hats and mittens or sweaters and socks, these are the new knitting books to add to your shelves:

Texture: 20 Timeless Garments Exploring Knit, Yarn and Stitch

What’s more fun than exploring how yarn and stitches can come together to create different textures. This book explores that while giving you patterns to make scarves, vests, gloves, and sweaters. The designs and their texture were inspired by the city, country, and coastal landscapes, all of which is reflected in the beautiful photography that makes this not only a great knitting book but a good coffee table book as well.

Vogue® Knitting Lace: 40 Bold & Delicate Knits

Here are more than three dozen designs curated from the pages of Vogue Knitting magazine. If you love lace knitting than this is one of the new knitting books you’ll want to get your hands on.

Top-Down Colorwork Knit Sweaters and Accessories : 27 Patterns for Women and Men

Fourteen of this book’s patterns are top-down, seamless, yoke pullover sweaters. Therefore, if you’re seeking sweater design books for knitter gifts this year, then head to this one. These designs will keep you cozy and stylish. The rest of the book’s patterns apply the same basic knitting techniques to accessories that you can wear with the sweaters or on their own.

Summer Knitting : 26 Projects for Warm Weather Crafting

Knitting, of course, isn’t just about sweaters. You can make beautiful, lightweight summer garments as well. This collection has shirts (including a Hawaiian shirt) as well as accessories for home and body.

Easy Knits for Beautiful Yarns: 21 Shawls, Hats, Sweaters & More Designed to Showcase Special Yarns

If you have been looking for an excuse to use your luxury yarns , then this is one of the best new knitting books for you. The simple knit patterns are designed specifically to showcase beautiful, special yarns.

Knit Happy with Self-Striping Yarn : Bright, Fun and Colorful Sweaters and Accessories Made Easy

Knit colorful sweaters, mittens and more with the self-striping yarn patterns in this collection.

Small Knits: Casual & Chic Japanese-Style Accessories (19 Projects + variations)

Knit a variety of different accessories with the patterns in this book. Instructions include Japanese symbol charts as well as diagrams.

Knitted Shawls

This looks like it’s going to be one of the most interesting new knitting books of 2021. On the one hand, it’s a collection of more than two dozen knit shawl patterns. However, it’s also a guide to learning how to knit, with shawls as your projects because gauge is less important than with other wearables. And it also includes information about the health benefits of knitting .

Knitter’s Guide to Shawl Design

In this Kindle book, author Emma Vining uses the shawl to teach you about how to design your own knits. The book covers shawl shapes and knitting techniques. More importantly, it discusses how to adapt and customize designs as you learn to create your own original knits.

Knitted Animal Hats : 35 designs from the animal kingdom for babies, kids, and teens

How cute are these animal hats? You can knit one for everyone you know, for holidays and special occasions or just for fun.

Knit Hats with Woolly Wormhead: Styles for the Whole Family

If you’re looking for more classic knit hat patterns for the whole family then this might be the book for you.

10 Quick Knit Beanies & Slouchy Hats

There are always great new knit hat patterns to choose from. Therefore, here’s another of the new knitting books in that vein.

Big Book of Baby Knits : 50+ Garment and Accessory Patterns

Do you enjoy knitting for babies. If so, then this is one of the new knitting books you’ll want to get your hands on.

52 Weeks of Socks : Beautiful patterns for year-round knitting

Challenge yourself to knit a new pair of socks every week for one year. Or just turn to this book whenever you get the urge to knit socks and need a new pattern at your fingertips.

Knit Soxx for Everyone : 25 Colorful Sock Patterns for the Whole Family

If you love to knit socks then you’ll be pleased to know there are several new knitting books dedicated to patterns for you. This one has patterns in all sizes.

The Sock Knitting Bible

If you’re new to knitting socks, then you might want to check out Lynne Rowe’s book. This is a comprehensive step-by-step guide to knitting socks.

Knit 2 Socks in 1: The Easiest Method Ever for Knitting Two Socks at Once

This is a unique approach to sock knitting. You essentially make one long knit sock then split it into a pair. Learn how from the book which has 20+ knit sock designs in addition to the instructions.

Knitted Gifts for All Seasons : Easy Projects to Make and Share

This book has a combination of wearables and home decor items. What ties the projects together is that they are quick and easy knits that make good gifts for a variety of different people in your life.

Knitter Gift Ideas: Blanket Knitting Books

Many knitters love crafting blankets. You can use these new knit books to make blankets of all sizes. Therefore, they’re among the top knitter gift ideas for 2021.

Geometric Knit Blankets : 30 Innovative and Fun-to-Knit Designs

The designs in this book are inspired by tiles, quilt patterns, and other graphic geometric prints.

Knitted Baby Blankets & Cuddle Bags : Over 50 Designs to Make and Share

Baby blankets are always cute gifts for little ones. Moreover, they’re great to donate to charities. That’s why this is one of the best knitter gifts as far as books go.

Knitting Books for Making Toys

So often we see books for amigurumi crochet toys. However, knitters can make toys, too! If that sounds like fun to you then check out these new knitting books. As far as knitter gifts go, in can be fun to make toys for knitters who themselves usually make blankets or wearables. Gift them something different.

Adorable Knitted Animals : Cute Stuffed Toys to Knit the Japanese Way

There are more than two dozen different knit animal pattern in this book. They are designed as cuddly stuffies.

20 to Knit: Dressed Up Bears

Make a group of cuddly stuffed bears. They are dressed for various professions and hobbies including a firefighter, an astronaut, and a judo bear. Therefore, these are great for kids who are learning and dreaming about what they might want to be when they grow up.

Knitted Space

Create a collection of space-inspired toys for kids to play with using your knitting skills and these patterns.

Arne & Carlos’ Field Guide to Knitted Birds : Over 40 Handmade Projects to Liven Up Your Roost

These knitted birds are humorous toys. However, they’re also perfect for bird lovers. Have fun crafting them and delight in gifting them. If you’ve been looking for knitter gift ideas, both the book and the things you yourself make using it are great options.

New Novels, Memoirs and Knitting History Books

Knitting is such a popular pastime that it shows up in a variety of different types of books. Novels, particularly mysteries, often have knitting in the plot. Moreover, there are some really interesting new knitting books that explore the history of the craft. These are really special knitter gifts because they honor what the knitter loves.

This Golden Fleece: A Journey Through Britain’s Knitted History

This is a non-fiction book that combines memoir with history through the exploration of a year of knitting while traveling the British Isles. The author explores the history of wool in this area. According to the Amazon description:

“ This Golden Fleece is at once a meditation on the craft and history of knitting, and a fascinating exploration of wool’s influence on our landscape, history and culture. “

Unravelling Canada: A Knitting Odyssey

This is a similar type of book as the one featured above except that it’s about Canada instead of the British Isles. Author “ Sylvia Olsen married into the Tsartlip First Nation near Victoria, BC, and developed relationships with Coast Salish knitters through her family’s sweater shop .” She did a cross-country trip exploring different cultures and their experiences with knitting, writing about the similarities and differences.

Vanishing Fleece: Adventures in American Wool

This is the new book from Clara Parkes, author of Knitlandia . It is a memoir of the process of turning fleece into yarn.

This children’s book looks adorable. It’s about a knit blanket that a child loves. When it becomes unraveled, he’s upset. But then his mother knits him something new out of the yarn. Want to instill a love of knitting in children from a young age? This book seems like a good way to start.

If You Want to Knit Some Mittens

Here’s another cute kids knit book, described in part on Amazon: “In this playful story, a girl follows 18 steps to knit mittens–from bringing home a sheep to carding, spinning, and dyeing the wool to knitting the mittens.”

Knit, Purl, a Baby and a Girl

Carina Adores is an LGBTQ+ friendly set of love stories. In this one, a pregnant woman finds love and support in a knitting group.

On Skein of Death (A Riverbank Knitting Mystery)

In this novel, a yarn shop owner works to solve a mystery when someone is murdered with one of her yarn skeins.

Purled and Poisoned : (A Humorous & Heart-warming Cozy Mystery)

The plot according to Amazon includes: “The Serial Knitters and Happy Hookers in the store’s Craft for Calmness group have been busy creating booties and baby blankets for a christening fit for a prince. But when I stumble onto the little prince’s fatally poisoned mother, a right royal mess ensues.” This book is part of the Knitty Kitties Mystery series, which also includes Knitted and Knifed: A Humorous & Heart-warming Cozy Mystery .

And Other New 2021 Knitting Books

Here are a few unique knitting books that don’t quite fall into any simple category. That’s what makes them special.

Contemplative Knitting

This book is all about knitting as a spiritual practice. It explores daily knitting as a form of prayer . Moreover, it looks at how knitting connects communities.

Sustainable Knitting for Beginners and Beyond: 20 Patterns for Environmentally Friendly Knits

Knitting is a slow fashion antidote to fast fashion, making it a sustainable craft. However, there are many things you can do to make your knitting even more eco-friendly. This book provides information about sourcing eco-friendly yarns, keeping your yarn footprint low, and knitting with sustainability in mind.

Viking Knits and Ancient Ornaments : Interlace Patterns from Around the World in Modern Knitwear

This is a really unique book specifically about interlace motifs in knitting. According to Amazon, this book has “ Dozens of different sources of inspiration, catalogued and placed within their cultural and historical context, from all around the world.” The book came out as a hardcover in 2014 and then a paperback a couple of years ago. However, new in 2021, it’s available on Kindle.

Wardrobe Embroidery: Knit & Embroidery Projects for Upcycling Clothes

This is an intriguing book. On the one hand, it’s a guide to upcycling your clothing using embroidery. However, it also contains nine knitting patterns, all of which also make great base projects for embroidering on. Therefore, if you love both embroidery and knitting then this is one of 2021’s new knitting books to order today.

Star Wars Knitting the Galaxy

This book has Star Wars inspired patterns for toys, costumes, garments and more. See our full book review here . Tanis Gray also has a new book out this year called Knitting with Disney: 28 Official Patterns Inspired by Mickey Mouse, The Little Mermaid, and More!

Chic & Simple Chunky Knits: For Arm Knitting, Needles & Crochet

This book is unique in that it has patterns for both knitting and crochet. Moreover, the knitting patterns include patterns for needle knitting as well as arm knitting. What ties it all together is that you get the chance to use beautiful bulky yarn to create cozy accessories and blankets using these 23 patterns.

EZ Knitting : Knitting Without Needles-Easy to Learn, Fast and Fun, No Tools Needed!

This book is specifically about how to use one unique yarn: Bernat Alize Blanket-EZ . This is a bulky yarn that requires no knitting needles to pull loop through loop and craft a variety of items.

You Might Also Like:

• 2021’s New Crochet Books to Buy or Pre-Order Today
• Marly Bird’s Knit and Crochet Books at Leisure Arts
• Yarn Pooling Made Easy Crochet Book

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10 New Knitting Books to Read in 2022

Want to expand your knitting book library but not sure where to start? Looking for resources to up your skills? Or just looking for a gift for a fellow knitter? I hear you. With that in mind…

I have collected 10 new knitting book releases that are sure to be great additions to your collection:

For sock lovers:.

01 Knit 2 Socks in 1: Discover the Easy Magic of Turning One Long Sock into a Pair! Choose from 21 Original Designs, in All Sizes

By Safiyyah Talley

Do you have single sock syndrome? Lack of motivation to complete the second sock? This is the book for you! Safiyyah Talley’s new book introduces you to a new, easier method for knitting two socks at once. How wonderful, isn’t it? Not to mention that it features seven basic styles, with many variations, you will find 21 different patterns to choose from.  Learn more »

02 The Sock Knitting Bible: Everything you need to know about how to knit socks

By Lynne Rowe

Look for a reference book covering all the different techniques and methods for sock knitting? The Sock Knitting Bible is more than a sock pattern book in which you will find stripes, fair isle, cables, lacy, sparkly, and snuggly socks. The step-by-step instructions are easy to understand and will help you conquer your fear of sock knitting. Learn more »

03 52 Weeks of Socks: Beautiful patterns for year-round knitting

Can’t stop knitting socks? Here comes the perfect book for you! Check out this book includes 52 sock patterns contributed by 46 leading knitwear designers from across the world. Each project uses different yarns and techniques, so definitely can keep you busy for the whole year! Learn more »

Dive into history:

04 Traditional Nordic Knits: Over 40 Hats, Mittens, Gloves, and Socks

By Johanna Wallin

If you are a fan of colorful and traditional knits, you will love this book. This gorgeous knitting book is very detailed and easy to follow including over 40 different projects (mittens, gloves, hats, and socks) for knitters on all levels. Each project is introduced with an example of a historic knitted item and an explanation of the pattern’s background and origin. Learn more »

05 The Nordic Knitting Primer: A Step-by-Step Guide to Scandinavian Colorwork Paperback

By Kristin Drysdale

No matter if you are ​​first-time colorwork knitters or a more advanced knitter who want to level up your skills. Don’t miss this step-by-step guide that includes everything you need to know to master Scandinavian colorwork. The projects are ordered according to difficulty, so you can base on your level to divide and conquer the skills. Learn more »

06 Selbu Patterns: Discover the Rich History of a Norwegian Knitting Tradition with Over 400 Charts and Classic Designs for Socks, Hats, and Sweaters

By Anne Bårdsgård 

This book is a must-have for anyone interested in the traditional knitting culture of the Selbu region. Also, an endlessly inspiring pattern resource that embraces the local knitting tradition, with a pattern reference guide unlike any other.  Learn more »

Something unique:

07 knitstrips: the world’s first comic-strip knitting book.

By Alice Ormsbee Beltran and Karen Kim Mar

Here comes a FUN one! Knitting and comics? YES, they can be a thing! Check out this inspired and funny comic-strip knitting book that includes 22 brand-new patterns. It is designed to mimic a bound collection of comic books in a series: each “issue” with its own cover and wry theme—from yarn stashes to binge knitting. Learn more »

08 Knit Fold Pleat Repeat: Simple Knits, Gorgeous Garments

By Norah Gaughan

Ready to take your knitting to a whole new level? In this beautiful knitting book, my friend Norah Gaughan will show you how to turn simple knits to gorgeous garments. The book includes 36 high-fashion style patterns in all, each with variations. You will learn how to use all kinds of fabric manipulations to create unique, fashionable clothes and accessories. Learn more »

09 Knitting for Radical Self-Care: A Modern Guide

By Brandi Cheyenne Harper

“I hope sharing myself fully empowers you to do the same,” says the author Brandi Cheyenne Harper. In this beautifully written book with essays on self-care and sourcing creativity, Brandi offers tips for carving out time for creativity. The unique pattern book alongside 10 original and fresh patterns by revolutionary women of color. It will bring you a very pleasant reading experience. Learn more »

10 Skill Set: Beginning Knitting

By MDK (Kay Gardiner & Ann Shayne)

Skill Set by my friends at Modern Daily Knitting covers everything a new knitter needs to know, short and sweet. It will help you build your confidence on knitting in just 9 short lessons. The information is super simple but so effective! And the best part is…it is also an app—so you can bring all the text and illustrations of the book plus videos EVERYWHERE! Learn more »

Want more? Stay tuned for my new book, Patty Lyons’ Knitting Bag of Tricks, which will launch this fall! I have been working so hard on it, and I can’t wait to introduce it to you. Learn more here and subscribe to my newsletter to get the latest updates. 

What are your must-have knitting books? Share with me in the comments! 

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• Sep 22, 2023

New Knitting Books for Fall 2023

Fall weather is here and with it new fall knits and new fall knitting books! Whether you're a fan of movie-inspired knits, eager to dive into colorwork, or seeking new stitch dictionaries and pattern writing guidance, these releases have something special in store for you. Let's take a look at some of the titles coming out in the next few months.

Get in Character

These first three books are based on movie or literary characters. Two of them are sanctioned by the authors but the third one is a bit iffy on the license.

Tanis Gray is a designer in her own right but lately she's become best known as — and got canceled for — being the editor of such movie-franchise knitting books as Harry Potter: Knitting Magic and Star Wars: Knitting the Galaxy . This fall she, along with a host of other designers, is putting forth two more character-based books.

Tim Burton's Nightmare Before Christmas: The Official Knitting Guide to Halloween Town and Christmas Town , set to be released in just a few days on September 26, will enchant knitters with more than 25 patterns inspired by the eerily entertaining world of Tim Burton's beloved 1993 stop-motion animation .

Inspired by the characters of Jack Skellington, Sally, Dr. Finkelstein, Zero, Oogie Boogie, the Mayor, Sandy Claws, and more, these patterns feature a mix of dark and vibrant knits and glow-in-the-dark yarn in celebration of the melding of Halloween and Christmas in this classic film. Oogie Boogie and Zero stuffies come to life with the help of your knitting needles, and clothing, home décor, holiday decorations, and more will transport you to the moonlit hills, dark cemeteries, and eerie cobblestone streets of Tim Burton’s stop-motion world.

Another fantastical release is The Fellowship of the Knits , also edited by Tanis Gray. This book invites knitters on a journey through J.R.R. Tolkien's Middle-earth, and features over 25 patterns inspired by the mythical world of hobbits and elves. Some are knitted replicas of the costumes worn in the movies, some take a more creative license ( ahem ) with the fantasy theme.

Knit your way across J. R. R. Tolkien’s Middle-earth, from the Shire’s idyllic countryside to the Elfin palaces of Rivendell, with this first-ever Lord of the Rings knitting guide. With patterns to suit your every otherworldly mood, this book includes cozy knits to languish by the fire in at Bag End, rustic outerwear to enjoy a beer and a warm bowl of stew at The Prancing Pony Inn, and elegant laces suited for the lush, peaceful valley of Rivendell.

Inspired by the popular books and film adaptations—including beloved characters, locations, and natural elements––this guide features a variety of knitting techniques, like cables, lace, colorwork, brioche, and textured stitches, and it includes patterns for apparel, accessories, and home décor for every skill level. From the Hobbits’ warm, rustic knits and the Dwarves’ rugged armor to the intricate, lacy garments of the Elves of Rivendell, there’s a pattern to suit everyone in your life.

The patterns contained within have such pun-tastic names as One Ring to Warm Them All and You Shawl Not Pass . I don't even know what their look like but sign me up for a pair of Second Breakfast Socks! The Fellowship of the Knits: Lord of the Rings: The Unofficial Knitting Book comes out on the same day as Nightmare Before Christmas , September 26. Knowing how fiercely protective the Tolkien estate is of their IP, I'm surprised this title is even seeing the light of day.

Claire Garland aka Dot Pebbles is a designer who specializes in adorably cute yet lifelike knitted animals. If you haven't seen her frog with a striped jumper , you've been living under a rock! This fall she's bringing new life to Beatrix Potter's cherished storybook characters in Knitting Peter Rabbit™: 12 Toy Knitting Patterns from the Tales of Beatrix Potter .

With step-by-step instructions and beautiful photography, you'll be able to make all the most enduring characters from Beatrix Potter's world. Knit Peter Rabbit, Benjamin Bunny, Flopsy Bunny, Jemima Puddle-Duck, Mrs. Tiggy-winkle, Mr. Jeremy Fisher, Tom Kitten, Squirrel Nutkin, the Tailor of Gloucester, Samuel Whiskers, Mr. Tod the fox, and Tommy Brock the badger, and dress them up in simple felt garments to complete the storybook look.

Hop on to Peter Rabbit's world on October 24, 2023.

Colorwork Guides

This next set of three books all deal with colorwork.

KnitOvation by Andrea Rangel , hitting shelves on October 10, 2023, offers more than 150 modern colorwork knitting motifs. Much like her previous colorwork stitch dictionary AlterKnit (which I already have in my carefully-curated reference library), this one continues the theme of contemporary colorwork patterns that go beyond the classic OXOs, peeries , or Selburoses . The panda bears on the cover? Simply adorable.

KnitOvation includes more than 150 brand new colorwork motifs to expand knitters' creative possibilities and draw them further into the world of stranded knitting with clever, quirky, and beautiful motifs including botanicals, animals, and geometric patterns. The motifs are accompanied by a selection of accessory and garment designs to illustrate how the motifs can be used, and technical information on new topics including using charts and adding flourishes with duplicate stitch.

This next title is in German but charts are universal. Skandi Strickmuster is a collaboration by seven different authors. The book contains a collection of classic cable patterns plus Nordic colorwork motifs from Norway, Sweden, Iceland, Scotland, and Fair Isle.

Skandi Strickmuster – Die Sammlung: 160 nordische Muster aus Norwegen, Schweden und Island is released as an e-book on December 5; the hardcover comes out a few days later on December 10, 2023.

Unlike the previous two books, Colourwork in the Round by Anna Dervout of Along Avec Anna is much more than a stitch dictionary. It's a comprehensive guide to colorwork knitting that covers everything from reading charts and choosing colors to swatching, steeking, and beyond.

Discover different colorwork techniques using circular needles, which are becoming increasingly popular among knitting enthusiasts. You’ll learn how to choose your yarns, manage tension, knit in the round, and integrate a seamless change of color into your work. Anna does the hard work of demystifying this traditional knitting technique so that it no longer holds any secrets.

Illustrated step-by-step instructions guide you through the learning process; at the end of the book there's the chance to put your knowledge into practice to create five superb patterns, each suited to a different skill level: create a hat, a sweater or a cardigan and see all your hard work pay off!

While it may include only 5 original patterns, all the projects presented contain skills you learn throughout the book, such as working in the round with the Blisco hat or steeking with the Scafell cardigan.

Colourwork in the Round: All the techniques you need plus 5 stunning projects comes out as a paperback on December 12 or, if you can't wait, as an e-book on November 30. The book was originally published in French ( Tricoter le jacquard en rond , EYROLLES 2019) and has also been translated into German ( Jacquard am Stück gestrickt , Stiebner Verlag 2020).

And Other Stitch Dictionaries

If colorwork is not your thing, no worries! Here are a couple of stitch dictionaries that cover other types of techniques.

Knitting Stitches Step-by-Step: More than 150 Essential Stitches to Knit, Purl, and Perfect by Jo Shaw is a modern stitch dictionary that showcases over 150 different knitting stitches. The book comes out on October 24, 2023.

Take your knitting to the next level with Knitting Stitches Step-by-Step. Whatever your knitting ability, this essential guide will help you master a huge range of techniques and patterns, including colorwork, fair isle and intarsia, cables and textural patterns, lace knitting, and methods for casting on and off. Find inspiration for your next knitting project or adapt a design you know and love with tips on incorporating different stitches into your work.

55 Fantastic Japanese Knitting Stitches by Kotomi Hayashi introduces innovative stitch designs influenced by Japanese-style knitting.

Popular and prolific author and knitwear designer Kotomi Hayashi presents 55 innovative stitch designs – specifically for those who have never tried Japanese-style knitting before. These include re-imagined modern variations on traditional stitches as well as Hayashi's own innovative inventions, which incorporate influences from her travels all around the world.

In addition to the charts typical of Japanese knitting books, step-by-step instructions and diagrams for each stitch are also included. Hayashi shows you how to use these stitch patterns in one or more of the 25 projects she includes in the book, so you can try them out on gloves, cowls, shawls and more.

Is this the new Japanese Knitting Stitch Bible ? You can already pick up a copy of 55 Fantastic Japanese Knitting Stitches ; it was released this week (September 19).

Better Pattern Writing

This last book might be of interest to both aspiring and more experienced designers. I certainly have been waiting for it with bated breath!

Kristina McGrath and Sarah Walworth are knitting tech editors behind the monthly video podcast Tech Tip Talk on which they interview designers about designing and pattern writing, grading and sizing, and the ins and outs of the knitting industry. Now they've combined all their years of experience in book form.

Knitting patterns are notorious for inaccuracies in measurements and confusing directions—but no more! The Knitting Pattern Writing Handbook sets new standards for clear, accurate pattern writing, walking aspiring and experienced designers alike through each must-have component of a thorough, well-written pattern, including how to devise and present gauge, charts, and sizing information that is correct and easy-to-follow.

The title of the book could've used a bit more editing but this promises to be a must-have guide for indie designers akin to Kate Atherley's The Beginner's Guide to Writing Knitting Patterns . The release date for The Knitting Pattern Writing Handbook: How to Write Great Patterns that Knitters Will Love to Make is October 21, 2023.

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Susanna Winter is a knitwear designer, creating timeless and elegant pieces with clean lines. She has been knitting for over 20 years, knit blogging since 2007, and designing knitting patterns professionally since 2016.

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The best knitting books for beginners & advanced knitters

Home » Wool & Tools » The best knitting books for beginners & advanced knitters

A detailed review of the best knitting books 2021 with my personal recommendations

I love a good knitting book. Beautiful pictures, some fascinating charts, and a little background story about how the various designs were created. Something I can read while snuggled up on my couch sipping a hot chocolate.

Do you know what I hate? Book reviews from someone who clearly doesn’t own the books (or, god forbid, read them), and just pulled the info from Amazon. The internet is, sadly, full of them. So, I decided to present you with my personal favorite knitting books . The ones that inspire me, and the ones I feel could truly help you on your personal knitting journey, and ones that could be the perfect gift for a knitter .

I own a lot more knitting books than I mention in this article. But for various reasons, I don’t like them or can’t recommend them. It’s not easy to press such a complex hobby like knitting into a book. Bad formating, weird charts, endless typos, small pictures – the list of things that can (and sadly often does) go wrong is very long .

On top of that, I didn’t want to recommend any books that only make sense for a short while . If you want to know how to do the purl stitch the right way , go read my guide and watch the video. And you probably don’t need to buy one either if you want to learn everything about the stockinette stitch . For me, a knitting book is all about getting inspired or having a reliable reference for important techniques & designs.

So, let’s dive right into it!

Note: I earn a small comission for purchases made through links in this article

1. The Principles of Knitting – June Hemmons Hiatt

That being said, it’s not an easy book . While there are quite some illustrations and pictures, not every single step is explained visually. It requires you to do your own thinking. Experienced knitters will probably have no problem but I wouldn’t recommend it for learning how to knit (but hey, that’s why I have a free knitting school here on my blog).

There are also no patterns inside. Instead, it will show you how to approach your own designs. If there was one thing I had to criticize about the book then it was its terminology which is not always in line with what most people these days call the various stitches. Still, hands down the best knitting techniques book on the market .

-> Buy “The Principles of Knitting” on Amazon

2. The Knitter’s Book of Yarn – Clara Parkes

Why do I like it? Making the right yarn choice for a project is such an important aspect when it comes to bringing your hobby to the next level. And that’s where a lot of beginners and intermediate knitters fail. They either pick the cheapest yarn available or the one that had the most beautiful speckles (just in case, here’s a list of indie dyers with100+ entries) – but that’s not how you should approach the designing process.

Knit cables with mohair yarn, and you will see nothing. Knit them with superwash merino and they will pop. Knit stockinette stitch with a yarn with a very high ply, and it will almost look like a different pattern because the left leg of the V is so twisted, etc. And this book will really teach you how you should pick your yarn and find patterns to match .

3. Japanese Knitting Stitch Bible – Hitomi Shida

See, I personally don’t need to buy a book to read about the Star Stitch or the ZigZag Rib . While this is all nice and cute for your first months of knitting, I just feel I don’t need to spend 20, 30, or 40 USD to see the difference between a broken rib stitch and a waffle stitch – besides there are a thousand other e-books and blogs with that kind of information available for free.

Hitomi Shida, on the other hand, presents you with 260 intricate stitch patterns that can truly inspire you . A lot of them are complicated, fair enough. And there are charts all over the place (make sure to read my tutorial on reading knitting charts the right way in case you have issues in that department). There are also a lot of fancy techniques involved.

But I guarantee you, this book will get you dreaming about new designs and patterns the second you pick it up.

4. Knitter’s Almanac and Knitting without tears – Elizabeth Zimmermann

Knitting is an ancient craft. But in terms of comprehensive knitting books , there’s not a very long history, as it was mostly passed down orally from mother to daughter (or father to son, depending on the country) and through schools. Elizabeth Zimmermann was one of the very first to bring universal knitting techniques, principles, and stitches to a broader audience.

When you read Elizabeth Zimmermann, it feels like you are visiting a distant (and maybe a bit eccentric) relative and you sit down and talk about knitting. The charts and instructions are hand-drawn from way before the age of computers. On the negative side, the patterns (like a lot of other vintage patterns as well) are not as accessible. But then again, EZ is all about getting creative yourself and teaching you to design your own stuff and navigating around common problems. So, I don’t even think this is a major flaw.

5. A treasury of Knitting Patterns – Barbara G. Walker

I do have to say that they are perhaps not the most accessible . The shorthand instructions take quite some time to get used to. There are no charts at all – just endless lines of written instructions. So, maybe nothing for absolute beginners. But it is a nice reference book for experienced knitters who are looking for an interesting design to add to their next pattern.

6. Bäuerliches Stricken – Lisl Fanderl

What Lisl Fanderln did was quite unique: She toured around the alpine regions of Germany and Austria and compiled a book full of these traditional designs (mostly in bavarian twisted stitches ). If you are a sock knitter, then this will be an invaluable treasure trove of knitting stitch patterns and designs.

There are similar books by Maria Erlbacher for purely Austrian designs and there exists an English translation with 174 stitch designs. Probably the better option if you don’t speak German. Though Lisl Fanderl’s books are basically just charts and pictures – so possibly still accessible to advanced knitters who want to get in contact with centuries of traditional designs.

7. Vogue Knitting – The ultimate Knitting book

Unlike a lot of other books on this list, it’s very easy to understand and the explanations are supported with clear schematics and swatches. I love the fact that there are sections for lefthanders as well. Knitting stitches, finishing techniques, yarns, pattern reading, and even embroidery or beading are explained in a contemporary and very concise way.

Don’t expect any patterns though. There are only recipes for a basic sweater, sock, and mittens included. Still, a very well-rounded book that has been revised over and over again to perfection.

8. The Knitter’s Handy Book of Patterns – Ann Budd

I am a firm believer in learning how to write your own patterns. Knitting is a hobby that allows you to express your own creativity . Whether it’s the yarn you choose or the stitch pattern you pick – the final garment is something unique. A lot of knitters these days just replicate the designs of someone else – same size, same yarn. I personally feel this is quite a pity.

It’s basically a book full of basic knitting patterns and very detailed sizing information so you can adjust them (no matter your size or the yarn you use) to fit perfectly. The idea: You can then use these elaborate recipes and embellish them with any knitting stitch pattern you like.

9. 200 Fair Isle Motifs: A knitter’s directory – By Mary Jane Mucklestone

Experienced colorwork knitters probably won’t gain a lot of new insights but if you want to expand your horizon, it’s a goldmine. There are so many basic motifs to choose from and the overall technique is explained quite well on top of that. It’s, in my opinion, the best of the Fair Isle books on the market.

10. A Blank spiral notebook

Seriously? Well, yes. Actually, I believe writing your own knitting journal is one of the smartest and most important things you could ever do. As you proceed along your knitting journey, you will often revisit old patterns. Maybe {insert name of a loved one} wants another pair of socks because they loved them so much and the old ones are kind of threadbare by now.

Well, if you noted down the yarn, the measurements and the stitches you cast on, knitting another pair will be a breeze. No need to start the guesswork over again. Also, sometimes you are altering existing patterns, but the outcome is not to your satisfaction. If you can retrace your steps, you also have the basis to adjust the pattern so it turns out perfect the next time.

There are tons of so-called “knitting journals” on Amazon, but really, a blank spiral notebook is all you need. Or maybe something with graph paper, so you can plot charts (if that’s what you want to do). I don’t think you need templates. The only person who will ever read this book will (quite possibly) be you, so do whatever suits you and your style best.

Other knitting books you should consider

Throughout the years, I also bought a couple of books that I feel deserve an honorary mention. These are probably books better suited for advanced knitters like me, who’ve seen it all and only want some further inspiration and no technique manuals.

1. Arctic Lace – Donna DRuchunas

I don’t believe it’s the best knitting book ever created. It certainly has quite a couple of flaws. BUT I truly love how it offers you a glimpse into a whole new knitting tradition: How the rare Quivit yarn is harvested and which patterns are traditionally knit with it.

2. Knitted Lace of Estonia

This is another regional book and a lovely addition for makers who love lace. It’s a really good book for advanced knitters but I would say you should have some experience with knitting shawls. Other than that there’s a wealth of patterns and design ideas that I’m sure you will love.

There’s also quite a lot of fascinating history about the Estonian lace tradition. Even if you don’t want to knit the pattern I still find it quite interesting to read about that.

Anyways, that is my list of the best knitting books for beginners and advanced knitters. Feel free to comment with your favorites!

31 thoughts on “The best knitting books for beginners & advanced knitters”

this is a very good bibliography… and… i have all but 2 of the books! and i’m ordering one of them right away (i dont do sweaters). thank you so much for this… best regards, daisy 🙂

glad to hear I was able inspire you 🙂

Thank you so much for this list of books. I’m new to knitting and have been somewhat overwhelmed by all the materials available, trying to discern what’s actually good and useful for me as a beginner. I ordered Pom Pom’s Knit How, which has been helpful, but I’ve been searching for more reference-type reading material. I’m definitely going to pick up The Principles of Knitting and The Knitter’s Book of Yarn to start with!

Hey Francesca, happy to hear i could be of help. I actually want to write another list with pure beginner how-to books but haven’T found the time yet >.<

That’s a very interesting selection, thank you. I shall be taking a closer look at some of them.

The only one I already have is Arctic Lace. But I’m afraid I have no more idea than you about how the author’s surname should be pronounced.

I was amused by the reference in the subtitles to ‘breath starts’ rather than ‘breast darts’ 🙂

well, it doesn’t matter I guess. Ppl always ask me how they should pronounce my name and I’m always like..”i don’t care” 😉

You did get, ‘Mucklestone’ right, though 🙂

I am an avid reader as well as a knitter, so I really appreciate the time you took to share the books that are useful in the long term. I am loving knitting sweaters now, as well as smaller projects. I like to knit hats, mittens & scarves to donate, which gives me a chance to play with pretty yarn, improve my knitting, and also help someone else stay warm.

Hey Leanna, I think I saw a comment on one of my yt videos today as well? Anyyway. Thank you so much for your feedback and for taking the time to share your story with me. It is much appreciated!

Norman, I just discovered your videos. Your tips on finishing techniques was so informative. There is always something to learn, even after 35 years as a knitter! Quiviut is such a beautiful, precious yarn that I have had the pleasure of seeing made into a scarf.

Ramona, yes there is! And isn’t that beautiful? And yeah quiviut is beyond dreamy!

Thank you for this list of books. I think Ill start with Elizabeth Zimmermans “Knitters Almanac”. I took a peak at the sample on Amazon and can tell this is going to be a wonderful book for learning the joys of knitting. I do have Vogue’s Learn to Knit coming any day now. Hopefully it will be a good source when I tire of looking at the computer screen.

Just two weeks ago my landlord taught 3 of my 6 children (ages 12, 9, and 6)the basics of how to knit. I of course had to learn too = ) now our house is covered in little swatches of things here and there as we practice stiches. My 12 yr old son knitted up your coaster pattern the other day and it turned out well. Today I think we will practice dishcloths.. tomorrow scarfs and from there Im not sure…

heh…that sounds like fun family times! make sure to comment in case you need any help!

Please do a flip through of your project journal!

Bookstore.org is a great site to use for product links. They support small independent bookstores. We don’t need a one-company monopoly on booksellers.

Hey Lisa, please be aware that my readers are quite international. Also, as a blogger with only limited time, it’s just too time-consuming to provide multiple options for each and every post.

Hi! I am so happy to have stumbled across your you-tube videos! I have enjoyed several of your tutorials. I enjoy reading the stories/history of the stitches and patterns. They make me feel like I’m ‘channeling’ my European ancestors….I have always wonder how these marvelous people figured out how to do this amazing thing! Thank you for your time and efforts. 🙂

My first technique-focused knitting book was Leslie Ann Bestors very comprehensive “Cast On – Bind Off” (which also exists in a German translation).

She goes into great detail explaining which technique suits which project – and I love that the book is spiral-bound so that it always stays open where I want it.

One can never have enough knitting books! I knit for my 5 children, and their 8, plus some charity. My greatest enjoyment is knitting with leftover balls. However I need to learn how to convert a 10ply pattern to an 8ply. I have a ridiculous collection of knitting books, but none that explain the design aspects. Please, what can you recommend?

right off the bat? I can’t think of one. sorry to disappoint you.

Thank you for your quick reply.

I left a comment yesterday needing help with pattern verbiage. Please respond to [email protected] I think I gave you the wrong e-mail yesterday I could really use some help. Please Kare Honor

I do not comment on other designers’ patterns nor do I allow for parts of the pattern to be reproduced here on my blog. Thank you for your understanding. Please contact the respective designer if you need help.

Thank you so much for the list.

I am not really an advanced knitter. Actually I’m a very green beginner. But I have such a hard time with “beginner” books. They are too surface level and don’t explain enough. It’s a me problem, but still so frustrating. While I like to do and learn new crafts I’m an academic person. I want an encyclopedia or text book when diving in to a new subject. No matter if it’s a hobby or not. So I can learn the rules and techniques in order to make what I want, not follow a step for steps guide every time I want to make something.

I am glad I found your blog even if I should be sleeping right now lol

The only book I would add is “Personal Footprints for Insouciant Sock Knitters” by Cat Bordhi. The used book website I use is discoverbooks.com. They show it as being unavailable but it may be available elsewhere. I use her pattern for all the socks I make.

Thanks for your list. Would you have any recommendations for a new pattern designer of where and how to publish?

I am going to order a couple of these! Thank you for putting this list together.

I am planning to start a fiber arts club for children at my school in August (I am a primary school teacher) and knitting is going to be a big focus at the beginning! I wonder if you know of any resources or books that I could get now and over the summer. I do continental. It would be great to have a couple books for children who are learning to knit. I think there are some but I want to be sure it is not for English style because I’m more comfortable with continental. Can you give me any suggestions please?

I am sorry…i don’t have any clue about children’s book. Most utter beginner books I saw were…well…lacking in many departments.

At 83, I think I can knit any pattern (I learned at the age of 8); but some are, shall we say, “more challenging” than others….. Next challenge: Estonian shawl. My arms and shoulders get cold , especially in these air conditioned places. And many thanks for your help with “wonky” stockingnette edges!

I’m glad to see the Estonian Lace book on your list. I’ve lived in Salt Lake when Nancy Bush had her knit store, the Wooly West. There was weekly knitting nights and an active Knitting Guild in the area. I learned a lot about knitting from these folks.

Hi Norman , I just start to learn today with a group of woman in town where I live ,Queensland ,Australia .All the books that you recommend very interesting I will show to them .My goal is to nitting my own cardigan 🤔but I don’t know when it will happen .Before I going to buy all this book I proably learning the basic nitting then will see how I am going . Thank you for tips and clear instruction . Arpa

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Best Knitting Books

Unravel the world of knitting with these expertly-crafted guides and pattern collections, lauded by knitting enthusiasts and top craft publications for their detailed instruction and inspiration..

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25 Best Selling Knitting Books

Which knitting books are best sellers? Which are trending? The number one best seller is Vogue Knitting , from the editors of Vogue Knitting Magazine.  V ogue Knitting and any of the well-loved books listed below would be a great addition to a knitter's library, or a great gift for a knitter-to-be.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases (at no extra cost to you).

Vogue Knitting - The Ultimate Knitting Book: Completely Revised & Updated by Editors of Vogue Knitting Magazine

First published in 1989, Vogue Knitting The Ultimate Knitting Book instantly became a beloved resource for knitters. The second edition, released in 2002, further cemented its place as the most trusted knitting resource. The past 15 years have seen many exciting advances in knitting, and this update encompasses them all. It features an expanded library of cast-ons, increases, decreases, and bind-offs. It covers in-depth sections on newly favorite techniques such as brioche, entrelac, double knitting, and mosaic knitting. And, it includes design and construction chapters that go beyond just sweaters, and encompasses dozens of options for hats, mittens, socks, gloves, and 25+ shawl shapes. Comprehensive chapters cover lace and cabling, and provide even more information than before on knitters' tools, correcting errors, finishing, embellishing, and garment care. This fantastic book will give you a masterly understanding of every stage of knitting.

Sequence Knitting: Simple Methods for Creating Complex Reversible Fabrics by Cecelia Campochiaro

Every knitter, whether a beginner or an expert, wants easy projects for travel, gifts or those times when following a complex pattern is impractical. Sequence Knitting introduces a radical and simple approach for creating amazing fabrics by working a sequence of stitches over and over again. Beginning with 1-row patterns, the book delves into the possibilities of this technique, expanding into methods for creating complex designs that can be worked back and forth, in the round, or in shapes like triangles. The book includes stitch dictionaries with over 190 fabrics, many of which are new and reversible, as well as over 40 patterns for simple and elegant accessories. This groundbreaking book is sure to become a classic must-have for every knitter's reference library.

Knitting Ganseys, Revised and Updated: Techniques and Patterns for Traditional Sweaters by Beth Brown-Reinsel

Originally released in 1993, Beth Brown-Reinsel's bestseller,  Knitting Ganseys , is a classic. This completely revised and updated version of the perennial bestseller includes new photography, new patterns, and more. This special edition showcases patterns for sweaters in the traditional Gansey style as well as new explorations of modern Gansey-inspired patterns. Full-color, step-by-step photography walks you through a variety of traditional Gansey techniques and construction methods. As a bonus, contemporary sources for traditional Gansey yarns are shared, making this as vital to your knitting library as the original.

The Principles of Knitting by June Hemmons Hiatt

Reading  The Principles of Knitting is like having a knitting mentor by your side who can answer any knitting question you have in an honest, intelligent, and informed manner. A treasured guide beloved by knitters everywhere, the classic book The Principles of Knitting is finally available again in a fully revised and updated edition. While the basics of knitting have not changed much, June’s understanding of the material has deepened over the last twenty-five years.

This is the definitive book on knitting techniques, with valuable information for everyone from beginners to experienced knitters. June Hiatt presents not only a thorough, thoughtful approach to the craft, but also a passion for carrying on the art of knitting to future generations. She has repeatedly tested the various techniques and presents them with clear, easy-to-follow instructions—as well as an explanation of what each one can contribute to your knitting. Informed by decades of experience and thousands of hours of practice, this comprehensive resource offers a variety of ways to approach every skill and technique and offers solutions that can help solve the most challenging aspects of any knitting project. 

Tuck Stitches: Sophistication in Handknitting by Nancy Marchant

From Brioche master Nancy Marchant (Leafy Brioche) comes another striking book, dedicated to the fascinating tuck stitch, a reversible texture stitch. Tuck Stitches presents ninety original stitch patterns, as well as scarf, cowl, and blanket designs to help you practice and to inspire you to make your own projects using tuck stitches. This book is beautifully photographed and clearly presented.

Nancy Marchant first discovered brioche stitch when she moved to the Netherlands in 1976. She became fascinated with brioche knitting and wrote about it in  V ogue Knitting Magazine , as well as in a number of other knitting magazines. She maintains a web site on the subject at www.briochestitch.com and teaches brioche knitting both locally and at large yarn shows.

Vogue Knitting: Norah Gaughan: 40 Timeless Knits by Norah Gaughan and The Editors of Vogue Knitting Magazine

Over the past 30 years, Norah Gaughan has contributed an astounding 120+ patterns to the iconic Vogue Knitting magazine. From inspired textures to spellbinding cables and innovative constructions, she has created a legacy that will last for generations. To honor her achievements and contributions in knitwear, 40 of her patterns from Vogue Knitting magazine have been gathered into a single volume:  Norah Gaughan - 40 Timeless Knits . From a timeless cabled vest, her first Vogue Knitting piece published in 1987, to a striking Fair Isle pullover from 2018, each garment will dazzle knitters. Fun and engaging to create, these patterns and their construction will broaden a knitter's understanding of what knitwear can be.

Shawls by Melanie Berg

Finally, the first book by Melanie Berg! An internationally successful knitwear designer, Melanie, also known by the trade name Mairlynd, has been creating and publishing designs since 2011. Melanie has compiled a collection of her most beautiful shawls along with three new shawls published exclusively in this superbly designed book, Shawls . Her fans as well as knitters all over the world will enjoy knitting from this bilingual edition with instructions in both English and German.

Melanie Berg combines texture and color into wearable modern designs that are both playful and beautiful. She designs to surprise - from matching cheeky stripes with elegant lace, to choosing unexpected color combinations. She loves to collaborate with other creative types around the world and her patterns have been published by yarn companies and knitting magazines large and small. 

Unexpected Knitting by Debbie New

Unexpected Knitting is a great book for knitters who want to try out new techniques. Author Debbie New's background in math and science is evident in her designs, which include: Form knitting, Scribble Lace, Swirl, Sculptural, Virtual, Cellular Automaton, and Labyrinth knitting.

Debbie New is the most innovative knitter since Elizabeth Zimmerman, and Unexpected Knitting is a book that provides inspiration and new directions to even experienced needlers. New has an organic sense of her projects; she knows her materials and is willing to experiment. She has the gift also of being able to explain clearly, in words and in charts, exactly how she has produced her groundbreaking designs. Not all her designs or techniques will appeal to all knitters, but there is some new insight to be gained in every project she describes, and everyone will find something wonderful among the sweaters, jackets, and art pieces beautifully displayed and explained in this volume.

​ The Fleece & Fiber Sourcebook: More Than 200 Fibers, From Animal To Spun Yarn by Carol Ekarius  

This one-of-a-kind encyclopedia shines a spotlight on more than 200 animals and their wondrous fleece. Profiling a worldwide array of fiber-producers that includes northern Africa’s dromedary camel, the Navajo churro, and the Tasmanian merino, Carol Ekarius and Deborah Robson include photographs of each animal’s fleece at every stage of the handcrafting process, from raw to cleaned, spun, and woven. The Fleece & Fiber Sourcebook is an artist’s handbook, travel guide, and spinning enthusiast’s ultimate reference source all in one.

Knitting Without Tears: Basic Techniques and Easy-to-Follow Directions for Garments to Fit All Sizes by Elizabeth Zimmermann

From Elizabeth Zimmermann, who “revolutionized the art of knitting” ( New York Times ), Knitting Without Tears is the classic knitting bible that removes the frustration and puts the fun back into knitting with easy-to-follow instructions and timeless designs.

Do you love to knit—and hate to purl? Have you ever started a sweater without enough yarn from the same dye lot to finish it? Elizabeth Zimmermann comes to the rescue with clever solutions to frustrating problems and step-by-step instructions for brilliant, timeless designs. 

In  Knitting Without Tears , you’ll find elegant designs for: color-pattern Norwegian ski sweaters, seamless patterned-yoke sweaters, hooded garter-stitch jackets for babies,

watch caps, socks, slippers, mittens, and more.

A Second Treasury of Knitting Patterns by Barbara G. Walker

In this second in a series of knitting books by Barbara Walker, A Second Treasury of Knitting Patterns , you'll learn: Knit/purl (texture) combinations -- solid, colorwork, and fancy, slip-stitch patterns (both solid and colorwork), mosaic patterns, fancy color patterns, twist-stitch patterns, cables and cable-stitch patterns, yarn-over and eyelet patterns, lace, lace panels and insertions, and borders and edgings.

Knit One Knit All by Elizabeth Zimmermann

Elizabeth Zimmermann was a British-born master knitter who, after immigrating to the United States, wanted to supply handknitters with pure wool and circular needles (both a rarity in those days), as well as books, tools, and original designs. Elizabeth's humor and unique approach to seamless garment construction gradually attracted followers through her semi-annual Newsletter, a steady stream of designs in magazines, two television series taped for PBS-TV, the annual summer Knitting Camp, and books. Knit One Knit All   is about using the knit stitch exclusively - no purling. You will find sweaters, coats, jackets, and vests for adults and kids, baby garments, plus a wonderful array of small projects including sideways gloves and socks, several brimmed hats, an ingenious pattern for knitted clogs, and more.

The Knitter's Book of Wool by Clara Parkes

In this complete guide to wool, expert Clara Parkes translates the vast world of sheep and their wool into the language and context of knitting. This book covers the transformation of a mass of dirty fluff from shorn sheep into the yarn that's for sale in shops worldwide. She explains how to best knit with yarns made from their fibers, and explains how to determine which yarn is best for various projects - explaining the different breeds of sheep, and the qualities each type of wool has: fineness, staple length, crimp, luster, felting qualities, and best project choices. She delves into care for wool items, and includes 20 patterns that highlight the qualities of specific types of wool. The Knitter's Book of Wool will teach you what qualities you can expect from wool that you'll come across, so you'll know which wool to choose for any given project, and why.

Stitch 'n Bitch  by Debbie Stoller

In Stitch 'n Bitch , Debbie Stoller - founder of the first Stitch 'n Bitch knitting group in New York City - covers every aspect of knitting and the knitting-together lifestyle: the how-to, the when-to, the what-to, the why-to. Writing with wit and attitude ( The Knitty-Gritty, Blocking for Blockheads ), she explains the different types of needles and yarns (and sheep, too) and all the techniques from basic to fancy, knit to purl, to cast-off. She also shares her special brand of corrective surgery for when things go wrong, and offers fun and informative sidebars on such topics as how to find the best yarn for less, how to make a buttonhole, knitting etiquette, and what tools to keep in your knitting bag. At the heart of the book are forty stylish patterns: Alien Scarf, Big Bad Baby Blanky, Mohair Hoodie, Kitty and Devil Hat, Cell Phone Cozy, and Wonder Woman Bikini. And for anyone interested: how to start a Stitch 'n Bitch group.

The Knitter's Handy Book of Top-Down Sweaters: Basic Designs in Multiple Sizes and Gauges by Ann Budd

Fiber and yarn enthusiasts nationwide will celebrate Ann Budd's latest addition to  The Knitter's Handy Book  series, Top Down Sweaters . Answering to a growing interest in knitting sweaters from the top down and knitting seamless sweaters that require little finishing, this handy book offers instructions for knitting five basic sweater types: circular yoke, raglan, modified-drop shoulder, set-in sleeve, and saddle shoulder. Patterns are offered in multiple sizes and yarn gauges and for a broad age group.

Following the basics for each of the five sweater types are three diverse patterns from top designers that illustrate some of the many ways that instructions can be used as springboards for creative expression, including color, texture, and shaping variations.

Also included for intermediate to advanced knitters are personal design touches, detailed charts, clear instruction, and quick tips to expand knitting possibilities and maintain creative originality. A key reference for knitters of all skill levels, this is the new essential knitting resource on your bookshelf.

AlterKnit Stitch Dictionary: 200 Modern Knitting Motifs by Andrea Rangel

AlterKnit Stitch Dictionary takes an unexpected look at stranded colorwork with 200 new motifs. These non-traditional colorwork charts are perfect for the creative knitter looking to break away from the ordinary. Derived from graphic design elements, these fresh motifs include everything from geometric mountains, waves, and spirals to modern bikes, skulls, and sheep. Included are sections on reading charts, working floats, and choosing colors. Learn how stranded colorwork can be used in design with five accompanying projects including mitts, cowls, and sweaters. Plus, use your imagination to modify, deconstruct, and combine the unique motifs to create your own designs.

Amy Herzog's Ultimate Sweater Book: The Essential Guide for Adventurous Knitters by Amy Herzog

Yarn and fiber enthusiasts everywhere will celebrate the latest addition to Amy Herzog's beloved knitting series (which includes You Can Knit That , Knit to Flatter , and Knit Wear Love ) - Ultimate Sweater Book . This essential guide details every aspect of sweater knitting, starting with instructions for four basic sweater types: yoke, raglan, drop shoulder, and set-in sleeve. Patterns are offered in multiple sizes and yarn gauges for broad appeal. Following the basics for each of the four sweater types are a diverse range of customizing options, including how to add a hood, cowl neck, turtleneck, pockets, and zip or cardigan front, just to name a few. Amy's clear instruction and expert tips expand the many knitting possibilities, creating the essential knitting resource for knitters everywhere.

750 Knitting Stitches

​ 750 Knitting Stitches  is both a stitch guide and a how-to knit primer, all in one volume. Based on The Harmony Guides , which have been a longstanding and valued reference for handcrafters for more than thirty years, this book includes all the information you'll need to get started, including how to: choose yarn and needles, read patterns, work basic stitches, check gauge, increase and decrease, join pieces, finish projects, and care for your knitted items.

The comprehensive pattern library includes 750 knitting stitches, from simple to ornate, including knit and purl patterns, basic and complex cables, Fair Isles and intarsia designs, and rib and edging patterns. Each is fully explained with instructions and accompanied by a full-color photo of a sample knitted swatch. All swatches are worked in updated yarns, beautifully photographed, and accompanied by easy-to-follow instructions.

Elizabeth Zimmermann's Knitting Workshop (Updated and Expanded Edition) by Elizabeth Zimmermann

Elizabeth Zimmermann's Knitting Workshop guides knitters from beginner to master status through carefully created lessons. Included are: Learning to knit, Knitting with two colors, Elizabeth's Percentage System (EPS) for sweater design, Yoke style sweaters, Drop-shoulder sweaters, and Knitting garter stitch, lace, arans, guernseys, and fair isles. Zimmermann's workshop, originally a PBS television series, has been a bestseller since its release. Now, it has been updated with color throughout and expanded with editorial notes, technique photos and drawings, and more detailed directions and sizing for some garments. The pattern section contains Elizabeth's famous Baby Surprise Jacket (now with row-by-row instructions), the Epaulet Sweater, the Heart Hat, and many more of EZ's beloved designs. A wonderful book for beginning, intermediate, and master knitters, who often remark that they return to Elizabeth's books time and again to remind themselves of her innovative knitting techniques and construction methods. The updated and expanded edition enhances an already classic reference and pattern text for modern knitters.

The Knitter's Book of Knowledge: A Complete Guide to Essential Knitting Techniques   by Debbie Bliss

Debbie Bliss is one of the world's most respected knitwear designers, authors, and teachers—and  The Knitter's Book of Knowledge is the distillation of her decades of experience into a single, indispensable reference. With information on everything from needles and yarns to tensioning and casting on, from basic stitches to buttonholes and beading, from cabling and entrelac to finishing embellishments, it's the ultimate guide for beginners and experienced knitters alike.

As well as publishing her own Debbie Bliss Knitting Magazine , she is the author of bestselling knitting pattern books, including  Debbie Bliss Baby and Toddler Knits: 20 gorgeous jackets, sweaters, hats, bootees and more ,  The Knitter's Year: 52 Make-in-a-Week Projects - Quick Gifts and Seasonal Knits , and  Knits for You and Your Home: 30 Blissful Knits to Indulge, Cocoon, Pamper and Detox , which was the winner of Best Book 2013 at the British Knitting Awards.

Rowan: 40 Years: 40 Iconic Hand-Knit Designs by Sixth & Spring Books

Rowan: 40 Years   features the work of such renowned knitwear designers as Kaffe Fassett, Martin Storey, Louisa Harding, and Sarah Hatton. The book celebrates the magazine's legacy with gorgeous sweaters, cardigans, wraps, and more, including a  gallery of covers, never-before-seen images from the original magazines. Half of the featured designs have been knit again using modern colors, and have been newly photographed with updated styling to prove Rowan’s designs are as fashionable today as they were years or decades ago. Every knitter will turn to this book for patterns and inspiration.

Sock Architecture by Lara Neel

Sock Architecture is perfect for both experienced and novice sock knitters. This thorough, imaginative collection of sock shapes and patterns gives you the tools to construct an astounding variety of custom socks. All heels and toes are carefully explained and clearly photographed, and you can plug in your own numbers to work at the exact size and gauge you want. If you'd rather just pick up the needles and start knitting, Sock Architecture also includes 17 fully designed patterns. Most span five sizes, from women's extra small through men's large. And most of the patterns offer guidelines for an adjustable size so you can choose your own gauge, size, or both. Make socks that are as unique as you are!

Japanese Knitting Stitch Bible

In  Japanese Knitting Stitch Bible , Hitomi Shida's strikingly original designs and variations on every imaginable classic stitch result in intricate patterns that form the basis for beautiful and unique knitted fashions. This is the perfect book for the experienced knitter who is looking for new stitches that yield spectacular results! This Japanese knitting book features a wide range of rewarding and intricate stitches, including: cables, popcorn stitches, twisted stitches, edgings, and many more. A set of detailed, step-by-step diagrams show you how to execute all the basic stitches. Instructions and diagrams for a series of small projects offer practice working with large patterns, lacy patterns, pattern arrangement, and round yokes, among other things. The knitting projects include: a classic hat made using large patterns, an elegant scarf in lacy patterns, fingerless mittens, thick socks that can be made using various patterns, a feminine collar using round stitching, and more.  This Japanese stitch dictionary is sure to become a valued reference for experienced knitters.

The Sock Knitter's Handbook: Expert Advice, Tips, and Tricks by Charlene Schurch and Beth Parrott ​

Love knitting socks but sometimes hit a snag? Carry this handy answer book in your knitting bag! Well-known experts Charlene Schurch and Beth Parrott demystify all aspects of sock knitting in their book The Sock Knitter's Handbook - Expert Advice, Tips, & Tricks . This book includes: clear instructions for both toe-up and cuff-down sock knitting; multiple techniques for knitting: casting on and binding off, working heels and toes, making size adjustments, and more; and, a stitch dictionary of favorite texture patterns. You'll have many choices for options for creating your own unique socks.

Alice Starmore's Glamourie 

Glamourie is a Scots word meaning a charmed condition in which everything is invested with magical properties and possibilities. In this unique book, Alice Starmo r e leads us into the realm of glamourie and — like the witches of Gaelic folklore — casts spells with needles and a single thread. Taking her daughter Jade's supernatural stories as inspiration, she uses the art of hand knitting to bewitch and bedazzle, and illustrates the tales with elaborate costumes and accessories that portray fanciful and extraordinary ideas.  In creating these costumes, she has powerfully demonstrated the glamourie that can flow from the twin wands of a master magician. While the first half of this book is an unrestrained flight of fancy, the second half contains full instructions for knitting simpler and more practical garments inspired by each costume, all written with Alice Starmore's trademark accuracy and precision.  By developing each of these patterns from its associated costume, she has revealed how her mind works and how her imagination led her from the initial inspiration through to the final design. Alice and Jade Starmore are from the Isle of Lewis in the Outer Hebrides, and its moody Celtic landscape is the backdrop to the stories, costumes and designs they have created. The final stage of  Glamourie was to take their creations back out into that landscape to be photographed. They trekked to special locations, far off the beaten track, and Jade's spectacular photographs depict both the sweeping panorama and the minute detail of their beloved native isle. Three years in the making, this combination of photography and fable, of highly conceptual design and practical instruction, will enchant not only knitters but also those in the fashion and costume world and readers fascinated by Scottish and Gaelic legends.

Do you need to learn about the basics to help you get started knitting? Need to refresh your memory about yarn, needles, and instructions? This  free  ebook  will help you understand how to choose the right yarn and needles for each project. You'll learn how to read a pattern. We've also included links to some of our favorite free online knitting teachers.

Click through to get your free Learn to Knit: An Absolute Beginner's Guide .

For more curated books and crafting supply suggestions, explore our Crafting Resources , The Brooklyn Refinery Shop , and our Materials Source List .  The Brooklyn Refinery is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more.

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The Best Knitting Books of 2023

Are you shopping for the best knitting book or the perfect gift for your favorite knitter?

You’re going to love this list of knitting books! They vary from beginner knitters, knitting patterns, knitting stitches, books dedicated to knitting socks or shawls, patterns from your favorite movies (Harry Potter, Star Wars, Disney, and others) and some of the knitting books on my wish list.

I love knitting books of all kinds! Each one is a treasure trove of ideas, inspiration, tips & tricks and lots of wisdom.

Each of these books have something for knitters of ALL skill levels! Enjoy!

Best Knitting Pattern Books

I thought I’d start off with some knitting pattern books to get your creative juices flowing!

Knitting the National Parks: 63 Easy-to-Follow Designs for Beautiful Beanies Inspired by the US National Parks

• 272 pages + 63 knitting patterns
• Inspired my nature
• Tested & verified patterns + clear charts

Faerie Knitting: 14 Tales of Love and Magic

• 14 original fairy tales + 14 knitting patterns
• Magical garments & accessories

52 Weeks of Socks: Beautiful patterns for year-round knitting

• 52 sock patterns by 46 designers
• For knitters of all skill levels
• Classic slippers for beginners to stunning stitch definition
• Each pattern uses different yarns & techniques

The Nordic Knitting Primer: A Step-by-Step Guide to Scandinavian Colorwork

• For knitters of all levels.
• Multicolor patterns with step-by-step photo illustrations & instructions.
• Slippers, mittens, sweaters & hats with beautiful Scandinavian details.

Interweave’s Ultimate Shawl Collection: 30 Knitting Patterns for Gorgeous Shawls, Wraps, Stoles, and More

• 30 stunning patterns for shawls, wraps, and stoles
• Intricate, allover lace knitting designs
• Striking colorwork to captivating cables
• Creative combinations of varied techniques
• Shawl shapes and how specific shapes are achieved

Best Knitting for Beginners Books

If you’re new to knitting this is a good place to start! Even though I’ve been knitting for 10+ years, I still feel like I have so much to learn. Every knitter has a unique style and their own bag of tips & tricks. I love learning new knitting techniques and tips from different designers.

Patty Lyons’ Knitting Bag of Tricks

• 70+ hacks in Patty Lyons’ Knitting Bag of Tricks
• Patty helps you understand why the yarn/stitches/needles/tension are acting in a certain way and how to fix any issues
• Starts with the basics and explore the anatomy of a stitch and how this affects the look, feel and shape of the finished knitted fabrics.

My First Knitting Book: Easy-to-Follow Instructions and More Than 15 Projects

• 64 pages + 15 projects
• Easy-to-follow, full-color instructions
• Introduction of how to hold the needles & yarn to casting on, basic stitches & finishing touches
• Patterns start out simple and gradually become more challenging

Knitting for the Absolute Beginner

• Completely new & updated look that’s wire-bound
• Covers essential beginner techniques
• Step-by-step photo instructions
• Includes knitting patterns from a scarf to a cable-knit cardigan

The Knitting Book: Over 250 Step-by-Step Techniques

• Fully illustrated and easy to use knitting book
• One-stop resource for beginners
• Clear photographic steps explained with helpful annotations and arrows
• Basic casting on to intricate Fair Isle motifs and cable patterns

Vogue Knitting The Learn-to-Knit Book

• 128 page knitting essentials guide to learning all about yarn, needles, patterns, and, of course, those two basic stitches: knitting and purling.
• Step-by-step photographs that teach how to cast on, bind off, and knit up a collection of stitches ranging from basic stockinette to basket weave, bobbles, cables, and more.
• Links to video instruction are included for a complete how-to experience.

Best Knitting Stitches Books

Learning new knitting stitches is one of my favorite things about knitting! I’m absolutely blown-away by all the ways in which we can combine knit and purl stitches. Here are a few of my favorite knitting stitches books below to get you motivated.

750 Knitting Stitches: The Ultimate Knit Stitch Bible

• Basics on how to get started knitting: choosing yarn and needles, read patterns, check gauge, increases and decreases, joining & changing colors, join pieces & finish projects and more
• Illustrated photo tutorials
• How to knit basic stitches, cables, lace and colorwork

400 Knitting Stitches: A Complete Dictionary of Essential Stitch Patterns

• A dictionary of 400 knitting stitches.
• A knitting guide that invites knitters to experiment with a variety of new stitch combinations.
• 8 stitch categories: knit-purl, crossed and cables, slipped, lacy, double, twisted, cast-off, and fancy stitches.

60 Quick Knit Blanket Squares: Mix & Match for Custom Designs using 220 Superwash® Merino from Cascade Yarns® (60 Quick Knits Collection)

• Create your own one-of­ a-kind blanket design using a variety of stitches for all skill levels.
• Including knit and purl textures, cables, lace, and unique stitches.
• Sample yarn color combinations, a range of blanket sizes, edgings and inspirational blanket patterns.
• Knitting a blanket by making individual 12 x 12″ squares so you can work on the go year-round.

Japanese Knitting Stitch Bible: 260 Exquisite Patterns by Hitomi Shida

• Must-have for lace lovers!
• Original designs and variations on every imaginable classic stitch.
• Intricate patterns that form the basis for beautiful and unique knitted projects.
• The perfect book for an experienced knitter who’s looking for new knitting stitches to get spectacular results!

Knit Stitch: 50 Knit + Purl Patterns

• 50 unique beginner knit stitch designs.
• Chart diagrams and written instructions to knit both flat and in the round.
• Knitting stitches are organized by their row repeats.
• Knit and Purl knitting stitches only!

Vogue Knitting The Ultimate Stitch Dictionary

• More than 800 knitting stitches patterns.
• Including 100 that are brand new.
• Everything from beginner knit and purl stitches to colorwork.
• Comprehensive knitting stitch dictionary.

Knitting Patterns in Your Favorite Movies

Movies are one of my favorite sources of knitting inspiration. Movies are a wonderful inspiration for my creativity and knitting pattern designing.

Some of my other favorite sources are Gilmore Girls, Lord of the Rings & The Hobbit, Hugo, Narnia, The Golden Compass and Christmas movies. There isn’t a lot of knitting in most of these movies, they just spark my creativity to knit something warm & cozy.

Outlander Knitting: The Official Book of 20 Knits Inspired by the Hit Series

• Featuring rustic knits worn from the Scottish Highlands from the popular TV show Outlander.
• 192 pages & 20 knitting patterns.
• Capelet, boot socks, baby blanket, waistcoat and more.

Harry Potter: Knitting Magic: The Official Harry Potter Knitting Pattern Book

• The first official Harry Potter knitting book.
• A deluxe guide of 25+ authentic Harry Potter knits.
• Patterns written by Tanis Gray.

Knitting with Disney: 28 Official Patterns Inspired by Mickey Mouse, The Little Mermaid, and More!

• Disney craft book for Disney fans
• Bring the magic of Disney to your knitting needles
• First official book of knitting patterns inspired by classic Disney characters like Mickey Mouse, Cinderella, Ariel in The Little Mermaid and more.

Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood: Knitting the Neighborhood: Official Knitting Patterns from Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood

• The first official book of knitting patterns for the beloved TV show  Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood
• Collection of 24 knitting projects including accessories, toys and patterns for replicas of five of Mister Rogers’ iconic sweaters.

Star Wars: Knitting the Galaxy: The Official Star Wars Knitting Pattern Book

• 208 pages & 28 projects based on George Lucas’s epic film saga, Star Wars.
• The ultimate guide to creating stunning projects inspired by Luke Skywalker, Darth Vader, Rey.
• Includes several patterns inspired by droids, ships, and aliens from a galaxy far, far away.

5 Best Seller Knitting Books on Amazon

There’s a reason why these are at the top of the list. I went through the top 100 recommended books and looked for the ones with the most and best reviews. If you’re debating between 2 or 10 books, I highly recommend reading the reviews to help you decide.

Vogue Knitting The Ultimate Knitting Book

• The ultimate knitting reference knitting guide revised & updated.
• Includes 1,600 color images and brand-new sections with techniques and designs! 
• It features a library of cast-ons, bind-offs, increases & decreases, brioche, entrelac, double knitting, mosaic knitting and more.
• Chapters covering lace & cabling, correcting errors, finishing and garment care.

The Knitter’s Handy Book of Sweater Patterns: Basic Designs in Multiple Sizes and Gauges

• 224 pages + 18 sweater knitting patterns.
• Standard sweater patterns in a variety of sizes and gauges.
• Includes a template from to develop your own designs.
• Easy-to-follow charted instructions for 18 sweaters with cardigan and neckline variations.

Click HERE to browse the Top 100 Amazon Best Sellers Knitting Books

Take Your Knitting to the Next Level

I don’t have any of the books below… but they’re all on my wish list! 😁

The Colorwork Bible: Techniques and Projects for Colorful Knitting

• 160 pages of colorwork inspiration by designer Jesie Ostermiller
• 6+ colorwork knitting techniques outlined, like stripes, Fair Isle motifs, mosaic knitting, intarsia and more.
• Master a variety of swatches and techniques before starting a full sized knitting project.
• Tips & tricks on successfully combining colors for the best possible results
• Beginner and advanced-level skills with a vibrant, modern palette and inspired projects.

AlterKnit Stitch Dictionary: 200 Modern Knitting Motifs

• Stranded colorwork with 200 new motifs.
• Non-traditional colorwork charts.
• Includes everything from geometric mountains, waves, and spirals to modern bikes, skulls, and sheep.

Cast On, Bind Off: 54 Step-by-Step Methods; Find the perfect start and finish for every knitting project

• Discover the perfect beginning and ending for every knitting project!
• Detailed instructions for each technique with step-by-step photography
• Create edges that are tighter, looser, stretchier, or lacier.
• This book has the cast-on and bind-off that will give your project the perfect edge. 

The Knitter’s Book of Yarn: The Ultimate Guide to Choosing, Using, and Enjoying Yarn

• 256 pages + knitting patterns.
• Become a yarn whisperer.
• Learn how to read a skein; the most common yarn types, preparations, spins & ply combinations.
• Learn which yarns feel like sandpaper and which one’s pill quickly before you invested your time, energy, and money in it.

The Principles of Knitting by June Hemmons Hiatt

• 736 pages of a treasured guide beloved by knitters everywhere.
• This classic book has been fully revised and updated.
• This is the definitive book on knitting techniques, with valuable information for everyone from beginners to experienced knitters.
• With clear, easy-to-follow instructions.

Bonus Recommendation

If you’re looking for a magazine that fills you up with ALL the warm & cozy feelings… this is it. Stampington & Company, Bella Grace, the cozy issue 2022 .

I have 4 issues and I love getting them out when the weather starts turning cold and the days become short. I enjoy reading the stories of all the contributors, they’ve become dear friends, friends who share my love of all things cozy.

I love gifting magazines because it’s a gift that keeps giving throughout the year. (The other magazine I recommend is Magnolia Journal by Chip & Joanna Gaines , I love reading that one too.)

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

The 9 Best Knitting Books for Beginners

Our favorite is First Time Knitting, the Absolute Beginners’ Guide

In This Article

• Our Top Picks
• What to Look for
• Why Trust The Spruce Crafts

Marija Babic / EyeEm / Getty Images

Once you’ve decided to learn how to knit, you might opt for a knitting book for beginners to learn the fundamental principles. We researched all the top books in this category, assessing them for essential features like step-by-step instruction of the basic knitting stitches , clear photos or diagrams showing how they’re done, and a few simple projects to begin with.

Our top pick is First Time Knitting: The Absolute Beginner’s Guide . It shows clear instruction on the main techniques, finishing up with eight simple projects to practice your newfound skills on.

Here are the best knitting books for beginners.

Best Overall

First time knitting.

Comprehensive overview

Easy-to-follow descriptions

Includes beginner-friendly projects

Demonstration photos can be small

If you’re unsure of where to get started with your knitting instruction , First Time Knitting: The Absolute Beginner's Guide gives an outstanding overview of what you’ll need to know and which supplies to get, as well as guidance on each aspect of knitting from needles to yarn. Clear and easy-to-follow descriptions accompany each section of the guide, ensuring readers will gain a thorough understanding of beginner stitches and techniques.

There’s also a chapter featuring nine beginner projects at the end of the book, including simple pieces as scarves, blankets, and more. Plus, there are distinct sections explaining textures, knitting in the round, shaping, basic knitting techniques, and more.

Users say First Time Knitting helped them learn how to knit properly and without frustration. They say it left them feeling accomplished being able to knit their very own hat or scarf by the end.

Best Inspiration

We are knitters: knitspiration.

We Are Knitters is a well-known knitting company that produces beloved knitting kits to help any beginner learn knitting . This book not only provides step-by-step tutorials, but its 175 pages are filled with beautiful, inspirational photography from around the world to inspire your next knitting project. It includes patterns for both beginners and advanced knitting students, and is the perfect book for someone who wants a little more story around their tutorials.

Knitting fans praise this book for its inspirational photography and down-to-earth guidance. The authors write clearly and eloquently to ease any beginner knitter fears. Even once you're past the beginner's stage, this is a good book to keep around for new patterns to try.

The Knitter's Book of Yarn

Comprehensive reference on fibers and yarn

Plenty of knitting patterns

Patterns may be a bit dated

Get the lowdown on every type of knitting yarn imaginable with this collection. This highly informative reference can help you figure out exactly which kind will yield the results you need for any and every type of knitting project. Take a peek inside to find the author provides a deep dive into such details as the fiber types of various yarn options, their ply combinations, different kinds of spins, and more. She gives insight into where the yarns come from and how they’re made as well.

No matter your question (how your favorite yarns are made, who makes them, how they’re transported to you, and what they usually turn into), this book will answer them.  This is a must-have book for anyone who uses a lot of yarn, or just a knitter who wants to create the perfect piece. The author writes an online knitting review and edits the Interweave kid's site.

Best Pattern

60 quick knits for beginners.

Clear instructions

Fun illustrations

Projects for both beginners and experienced knitters

Book uses only one type of yarn

Especially created for the novice knitter, this book offers the best instruction on techniques and knitting patterns you’ll find. With 176 pages full of essential guidance for those new to patterns, this book includes clear instructions and fun illustrations.

There are numerous sidebars featured throughout the book pointing out important facts and insights. Readers can expect plenty of projects, varied to satisfy every kind of knitter. With some items specifically written for beginners, there are also plenty for more sophisticated knitters—we especially find it helpful that the projects are in order of difficulty throughout the book.

Best Stitch

The knitter’s stitch collection.

300 stitches

Well-organized

Easy-to-read charts

Relies a little too heavily on the charts

Featuring the top stitches for knitters, this book offers a collection of 300 favorite stitches both new and old. Regardless of skill level, readers will find a treasure trove of projects to dive into. Written by two highly experienced hand knitters, this guide is well-organized and chock full of instruction, explanatory images, and diagrams. There’s also a banner that runs along the bottom of each page with symbols used in the patterns and a full explanation in the final chapter.

Best for Star Wars Fans

Star wars: knitting the galaxy.

Adorable Star Wars projects

Full-color photos

Some projects may be a challenge for young learners

In its 208-page frame, Knitting the Galaxy: The Official Star Wars Knitting Pattern Book brings to life all your favorite Star Wars characters from the first six movies in knit form. From throw pillows to costumes (sized for both children to adults) and so much more, kids who love Star Wars will love every item in the book. With patterns for every skill level, they will be able to make many of them easily too!

Each project is accompanied by full-color photos, so you can follow along and make sure your skills are on point. Readers will follow instructions using colorwork, lace knitting, and many other techniques to create George Lucas’ favorite creatures and some of their outfits. This book is written by Tanis Gray, author of ten knitting books with over 500 published knitting designs, who has also worked for HBO and Martha Stewart. She teaches knitting worldwide.

The Sock Knitting Bible

Easy-to-follow instructions

Ten sample projects

Only features sock projects

If it’s socks you’d like to knit, look no further. Regardless of your knitting skills, this guide breaks down the structure of socks to help you knit your first pair. Taking our best beginners’ book for socks slot, The Sock Knitting Bible features the techniques you’ll need for abundant sock-making in easy-to-follow instructions. We love that the author makes sure to mention all the best types of yarn and knitting tools for sock-making as well.

All the knitters’ favorite methods are in this guide as well, so browse and readers can browse and choose one at their leisure. Also included is a section with ten sample projects created by top sock designers for readers to try out for themselves.

Best Specialty

Michael pearson's traditional knitting.

Features unique patterns from England and Scotland

Interesting historical notations accompany the techniques

Great photos

Patterns may be too challenging for beginners

This specialty option gathers together the patterns found in far-off English and Scottish fishing villages to create the most comprehensive and unique patterns of the regions. With their distinctive look and colors, these popular Fair Isle methods are revealed in technique within the 70-page collection. There are 17 color illustrations to back up the instruction as well.

Delve into mitten-making, jackets, hats, and so much more in these classic styles. An intriguing and well-researched reference, there are also interesting historical notations throughout the Fair Isle, Guernsey, and Aran techniques displayed. Users find that the patterns never get boring with the countless alternatives offered.

Best Color Knitting

Mastering color knitting.

Clear instruction

Over 50 patterns

Some clothing patterns are incomplete

These pages reveal how the author uses multiple colors in her projects without the knitting being a bit more difficult. She provides clear instruction on how she works with advanced color knitting to create intricate, complex designs. Within these 176 pages, readers will enjoy the simplest variations of each technique based on the work of knitters nationwide.

This collection is full of chapters divided into projects, patterns, and explanations of the concepts necessary for creating certain pieces. There’s even a section on color theory so readers can knowledgeably choose the right color mixes for their creations. To boot, there are over 50 patterns and twelve lovely projects included.

What to Look for in Knitting Books

Introduction to the basics.

Knitting teacher and fabric store owner Jessy Gregg recommends finding a book that can first and foremost walk you through basic knitting stitches (primarily the knit and purl). You'll also need a book featuring a good overview of what you’ll need as far as materials and how to understand simple patterns . After that, you can start looking into techniques like casting on, increasing/decreasing, casting off, the garter stitch, the stockinette stitch, knitting styles, blocking processes, and more.

Step-by-Step Instruction with Photos

Just as it's helpful to have clear, concise, easy-to-follow step-by-step instructions, it’s also important to have images (photos, illustrations, or diagrams, preferably in color), available to make sure your hands are positioned correctly and you’re using the supplies accurately. These used together allow you to familiarize yourself with the basic steps at your own speed and double-check your technique as you go along.

Simple Starter Projects

Once you’ve mastered a few new skills, trying out some easy starter projects can make it all seem worthwhile. Look for a book that has as many as possible to choose from. After beginners have completed some simple projects, they may feel encouraged to do further learning and the mastering of more complex patterns.

Starting out knitting can be a bit of a challenge, so creating something simple and useful can help make it fun. Gregg’s favorite beginners’ project is a simple stocking cap with a ribbed edge, which she feels is satisfying and easy to complete in a short time. Similar straightforward projects include basic easy scarves , shawls, ponchos, and baby blankets.

Gregg says all you’ll need for knitting are yarn and the needles to go with it. “Most modern knitters use circular needles (short knitting needles that are connected by a cord) even for projects that aren't knit in the round," she says. "They're less cumbersome than the long straight needles and they distribute the weight of the project more comfortably.”

According to Gregg, tackling something with a smaller diameter such as a hat will require needles with a 16-inch cable as well as a matching set of double-pointed needles for closing the crown of the hat.

In Gregg’s opinion and personal experience, size 8 seems to be the most used average knitting needle size. “Yarn weights have funny names starting with lace (the lightest), sock, fingering, sport, DK, worsted, aran and bulky," she explains. "DK or worsted weight match best with size 8 needles and would be the best place to start.” Other projects for beginners require medium needles ranging from size 4-10 for easy handling.

Why Trust The Spruce Crafts?

This guide was created by KJ Callilhan , a writer for The Spruce The Spruce Crafts. She’s also written numerous shopping, activity, and gift guides for sites like CNET, Bob Vila, and AAA Northeast in addition to various other types of articles for Outward On, Ancient Origins, and Finfrock Marketing. For this roundup, she consulted Jessy Gregg , store owner and teacher of knitting, sewing, embroidery, and spinning.

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• Entertainment

Here Are the 14 New Books You Should Read in May

These are independent reviews of the products mentioned, but TIME receives a commission when purchases are made through affiliate links at no additional cost to the purchaser.

F rom Brittney Griner ’s eagerly anticipated memoir to a long-awaited sequel to Colm Tóibín’s beloved novel Brooklyn , the best books coming in May offer a range of choices for every reader. Those looking for a good laugh should check out the latest high-society comedy from Crazy Rich Asians author Kevin Kwan or filmmaker Miranda July’s first novel in 10 years, which offers a profoundly humorous take on menopause and mortality. R.O. Kwon ’s sensual followup to her 2018 best-seller The Incendiaries is sure to keep readers on their toes, while scholar Deborah Paredez’s tribute to America’s finest divas offers an important lesson in pop-culture etymology.    

Here, the 14 new books to read this month.

Coming Home , Brittney Griner (May 7)

On Feb. 17, 2022, WNBA player Brittney Griner was detained in Russia , where she played professionally in the offseason, for possessing cannabis oil, a substance that is illegal in the country. (At the time, Griner’s Russian lawyers stated that she had been prescribed medical cannabis for pain management by her doctors in the U.S.) The celebrated athlete was sentenced to nine years in prison for drug smuggling and served in a Russian penal colony until the U.S. government was able to broker a prisoner swap in December 2022, trading her for convicted Russian arms dealer Viktor Bout . Griner’s memoir, Coming Home, which she co-authored with Michelle Burford, details all of this and more, offering a raw look at the harrowing experience that has turned her into an outspoken advocate for Americans who have been wrongfully detained abroad .

Buy Now : Coming Home on Bookshop | Amazon

Shanghailanders , Juli Min (May 7)

Juli Min’s ambitious debut novel, Shanghailanders, is a thrilling, futuristic family drama that captures the joys, disappointments, and inside jokes of one Shanghai family in reverse chronological order. Starting in 2040 and working its way back to 2014, the book unspools the shared and separate lives of the wealthy Yangs: Chinese real estate investor Leo, his elegant Japanese French wife Eko, their precocious eldest daughters Yumi and Yoko, and the baby of the family, aspiring actress Kiko. By giving readers the gift of hindsight, Min shows how one enigmatic family falls apart and comes back together over several decades.

Buy Now : Shanghailanders on Bookshop | Amazon

Long Island , Colm Tóibín (May 7)

Best-selling Irish author Colm Tóibín returns with Long Island, a well-observed sequel to his much loved 2009 novel Brooklyn , set 20 years after Eilis, the inscrutable heroine of the aforementioned book, emigrated from Ireland. Picking up in the spring of 1976, Eilis, now in her 40s, is still married to Italian American plumber Tony Fiorello and living in the titular suburbs outside of New York City with their two teenage children and her in-laws. All is well, if a little boring, until she is confronted by an irate Irishman who claims Tony has gotten his wife pregnant and he plans to leave the baby on Eilis’ doorstep once it’s born. Tóibín’s 11th novel offers an absorbing look at a middle-aged woman at a crossroads in not only her marriage, but also in a life she worries has gone unfulfilled.

Buy Now : Long Island on Bookshop | Amazon

The Skunks , Fiona Warnick (May 7)

In Fiona Warnick’s quirky debut, The Skunks, Isabel returns to her hometown after college graduation to take on a few odd jobs and figure out what she wants to do with her life. To take her mind off of her post-adolescent fears and anxieties, she starts thinking about the book’s titular creatures. Specifically, the three baby skunks that unexpectedly show up in the yard of the place she is house sitting. Their presence forces her to ponder life’s existential questions—and question her own romantic desires. The Skunks is a hilarious look at post-grad life and the loneliness, uncertainty, and occasional joy that comes with it.

Buy Now : The Skunks on Bookshop | Amazon

All Fours , Miranda July (May 14)

Filmmaker, artist, and best-selling author Miranda July’s first novel in a decade is an intimate, fearless, and sexy coming-of-middle-age story about a woman hellbent on reinventing herself. All Fours begins with the unnamed narrator, a 45-year-old semi-famous artist, learning that someone has been peering into her window with a telephoto lens. She decides to leave her husband and child behind to drive from Los Angeles to New York for a writing retreat. Unfortunately, she only makes it as far as Monrovia, Calif., less than an hour from home. It’s there she finds herself tackling fluctuating hormones, an increased libido, and a rather impractical motel room renovation in this wonderfully weird adventure.

Buy Now : All Fours on Bookshop | Amazon

Blue Ruin , Hari Kunzru (May 14)

Hari Kunzru ’s seventh novel, Blue Ruin, is a provocative portrait of a once-promising artist as a disillusioned man of a certain age. Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, Jay, a 40-something undocumented performance artist, is living out of his car and delivering groceries to wealthy residents in upstate New York. On one of his runs, he finds himself face-to-face with Alice, a woman he dated nearly two decades earlier. Alice invites him to ride out the crisis in the luxurious home where she is quarantining with her painter husband, the art school rival for whom she ghosted Jay. The unexpected run-in leads to a possible big career break for Jay, who worries the deal may just cost him his soul.

Buy Now : Blue Ruin on Bookshop | Amazon

This Strange Eventful History , Claire Messud (May 14)

This Strange Eventful History is a sprawling yet intimate saga that draws inspiration from author Claire Messud’s own family history. (She has called this novel, her seventh, the “most significant work” of her life.) Spanning several decades, from 1940 to 2010, Messud follows the Cassar family, a fictional French Algerian clan first displaced by World War II, and again, nearly 20 years later, by Algeria’s war of independence . With great empathy, Messud shows the effects war, colonialism, and later sovereignty had on three generations of the Cassars, most notably, the family’s youngest member, aspiring writer Chloe, a stand-in for Messud, who believes the truth will finally set her relatives free.

Buy Now : This Strange Eventful History on Bookshop | Amazon

Very Bad Company , Emma Rosenblum (May 14)

With her latest novel, Very Bad Company , best-selling author and journalist Emma Rosenblum takes a page from Rian Johnson ’s Knives Out playbook. Despite her lack of experience, former TV producer Caitlin Levy is hired as the new head of events at Aurora, a trendy ad-tech startup led by an eccentric CEO. To welcome her to the team, Caitlin is invited to take part in Aurora’s annual corporate retreat in Miami. This year, the company is preparing for an impending billion-dollar merger. But when one of Aurora’s high-level executives turns up dead, everyone on sight is forced to ignore the crisis so as to not sink the deal. What ensues is a darkly funny mystery about toxic corporate culture.

Buy Now : Very Bad Company on Bookshop | Amazon

In Tongues , Thomas Grattan (May 21)

In Thomas Grattan’s rollicking sophomore release, In Tongues, the charming if naive Gordon moves from Minnesota to New York City where he gets a job walking the dogs of Manhattan’s elite, including gallery owners Phillip and Nicola. Soon he is hobnobbing and bed-hopping with the high-powered couple, turning their lives upside down with little regard for the consequences of his actions. In this delightfully modern comedy of manners, Gordon wonders if he has the ability to change his ways as he begins to understand the damage his impulses have caused.

Buy Now : In Tongues on Bookshop | Amazon

Lies and Weddings , Kevin Kwan (May 21)

From Kevin Kwan , the author of Crazy Rich Asians, a high comedy sure to delight fans of Jane Austen . Rufus Leung Gresham, the protagonist of Lies and Weddings , is the future Earl of Greshambury (a clever nod to the fictional setting of Anthony Trollope’s 1858 novel Doctor Thorne ) and son of a former Hong Kong supermodel. He’s also been buried underneath a mountain of debt thanks to his family’s reckless spending. To dig himself out, Rufus’ always scheming mother suggests he find a wealthy woman to marry at his sister’s upcoming high-society wedding. What could possibly go wrong?

Buy Now : Lies and Weddings on Bookshop | Amazon

Exhibit , R. O. Kwon (May 21)

R. O. Kwon’s Exhibit is a hypnotic queer love story full of lust and longing. The sultry novel follows two women, talented photographer Jin and injured prima ballerina Lidija, and the ancient familial curse that stands to keep them apart. Exhibit is a haunting romance about desire, obsession, and ambition that is sure to get your heart rate up.

Buy Now : Exhibit on Bookshop | Amazon

American Diva , Deborah Paredez (May 21)

Fifteen years ago, poet and cultural critic Deborah Paredez tackled the posthumous legacy of Selena Quintanilla with Selenidad: Selena, Latinos, and the Performance of Memory . Now, with American Diva, she has put together an insightful ode to the famous women— Aretha Franklin , Tina Turner , and Serena Williams , to name a few—who have come to embody the often misconstrued term. Combining cultural criticism and memoir, Paredez shows how the word “diva,” once used to describe a powerhouse opera singer, evolved to become a condemnation of confident and powerful women, many of whom are women of color. American Diva is Paredez’s attempt to reclaim the word.

Buy Now : American Diva on Bookshop | Amazon

Accordion Eulogies , Noé Álvarez (May 28)

Growing up, Noé Álvarez’s working class Mexican immigrant parents rarely spoke of his larger-than-life grandfather. All Álvarez ever knew of the relative who was more myth than man was that he played the accordion and possibly put a curse on his descendents with his questionable behavior. In his poignant new memoir, Accordion Eulogies, Álvarez traces the history of the humble titular instrument in hopes of better understanding his own family’s mysterious lineage. With empathy and humor, the author dares to find the root cause of his generational trauma with the hope of finally breaking the cycle.

Buy Now : Accordion Eulogies on Bookshop | Amazon

In These Streets , Josiah Bates (May 28)

With In These Streets, journalist and former TIME reporter Josiah Bates takes a closer look at the recent surge in gun violence throughout the United States, particularly in marginalized communities. Bates travels the country speaking with those on the frontlines of what many have deemed a public health crisis that has only gotten worse since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. He interviews victims, perpetrators, activists, law enforcement, and academics in hopes of gaining new insight into the epidemic.

Buy Now : In These Streets on Bookshop | Amazon

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The Best Books of the 21st Century (So Far)

Rebecca Joines Schinsky

Rebecca Joines Schinsky is the executive director of product and ecommerce at Riot New Media Group. She co-hosts All the Books! and the Book Riot Podcast. Follow her on Twitter: @rebeccaschinsky .

View All posts by Rebecca Joines Schinsky

Welcome to Today in Books, where we report on literary headlines at the intersection of politics, culture, media, and more.

The Brag is Coming From Inside the House

Book Riot’s Kelly Jensen has spent the last few years becoming a leading name in book banning coverage, and we couldn’t be prouder to see her named as one of  Library Journal’s 2024 Movers & Shakers.  Subscribe to Kelly’s (free) Literary Activism newsletter to stay up-to-date on book banning efforts and learn about the most effective ways to get involved in your community. Kelly’s work has changed the way I think about the book banning movement and what it’s really about, and I know I speak for all of us here at BR when I say we are deeply grateful for her dedication, intelligence, and ability to get to the heart of an issue. May her efforts continue to succeed.

The Best Books of the Century (So Far)

The New York Times  has taken  a page from NPR’s book  and  aggregated their best books of the last 23 years into a cool interactive tool . Filter by year and/or genre and make your way to a read that’s almost guaranteed to be great. The  NYT ’s end-of-year lists of 10 best books and 100 notable books are consistently varied and interesting, and they’ve informed more than a few of my reading choices over the years. Nice to see them finding creative ways to repurpose content that continues to be relevant and helpful.

What’s the Point?

Why seek a traditional publishing deal when you have the internet and direct access to audience? Does anyone even read anymore? What makes books so special? Author Emma Gannon reflects on these questions and more.

New Legislation Aims to Ban Librarians from Joining the ALA

Yep, you’re reading that right. Louisiana’s House Bill 777 would criminalize libraries and library workers who use taxpayer funds to join the American Library Association. Why?  I’ll let Kelly tell.

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8 New Books We Recommend This Week

Suggested reading from critics and editors at The New York Times.

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Violence and its impact on writers anchor three of our recommended books this week: Michael Korda offers a group biography of the soldier-poets of World War I, while Kristine Ervin writes about her mother’s murder and Salman Rushdie relives the knife attack that almost took his life two years ago.

We also recommend a history of immigration detention in America and, in fiction, new novels by Leigh Bardugo, Terese Svoboda, Caoilinn Hughes and Julia Alvarez. Happy reading. — Gregory Cowles

KNIFE: Meditations After an Attempted Murder Salman Rushdie

In his candid, plain-spoken and gripping new memoir, Rushdie recalls the attempted assassination he survived in 2022 during a presentation about keeping the world’s writers safe from harm. His attacker had piranhic energy. He also had a knife. Rushdie lost an eye, but he has slowly recovered thanks to the attentive care of doctors and the wife he celebrates here.

“A clarifying book. It reminds us of the threats the free world faces. It reminds us of the things worth fighting for.”

From Dwight Garner’s review

Random House | $28

THE FAMILIAR Leigh Bardugo

A lowly servant girl in 16th-century Spain has a secret: There’s magic in her fingertips, perhaps the kind that anxious kings and other assorted schemers would kill for. The best-selling fantasist Bardugo (“Shadow and Bone”) infuses her new standalone novel with both rich historical detail and a heady sense of place and romance.

“Her prose mirrors the Baroque setting, her sentences lush and embroidered with pearls. ... Reading Bardugo is an immersive, sensual experience”

From Danielle Trussoni’s review

Flatiron | $29.99

ROXY AND COCO Terese Svoboda

The titular sisters in Svoboda’s new novel are modern-day harpies, of mythological renown: half-woman, half-bird, fearsome creatures. They’re also social workers, and their very long life’s work is the consideration of children who have been abandoned, neglected or worse.

“Svoboda’s novel comes close to suggesting that people really are for the birds. And yet, some of the most moving moments in ‘Roxy and Coco’ happen between creatures who are desperate for care.”

From Hilary Leichter's review

West Virginia University Press | Paperback, $21.99

IN THE SHADOW OF LIBERTY: The Invisible History of Immigrant Detention in the United States Ana Raquel Minian

The American government has a long record of detaining migrants in places that are, legally speaking, black sites. Minian traces immigration detention from the late 1800s through the present via the stories of four figures, showing how absurd and arbitrary the system can be.

“Storytelling allows Minian to convey the physical and emotional toll of detention with potent specificity. The result is a book-length plea against dehumanization, at least for those who are willing to listen.”

From Jennifer Szalai’s review

Viking | $32

THE ALTERNATIVES Caoilinn Hughes

This novel features four 30-something Irish sisters, all with Ph.D.s and all lonely or a little bit lost in some way. When the oldest of them goes (voluntarily) missing and her younger sisters team up to investigate, Hughes has the catalyst for a witty, bittersweet and often stylistically bold exploration of blood ties and chosen family.

“‘The Alternatives’ is a bold, beautiful, complex novel, and I can’t wait to read what Hughes writes next. She, too, is an unstoppable force.”

From S. Kirk Walsh’s review

Riverhead | $28

THE CEMETERY OF UNTOLD STORIES Julia Alvarez

Returning to her Dominican homeland after decades in America, a weary novelist decides to build a literal graveyard for all her failed and unrealized tales in the lively latest from Alvarez (“In the Time of the Butterflies”), who continues to fuse magical realism with warm humanism.

“Lively, joyous, full of modern details and old tall tales. Any reader with roots and ancestors in other lands lives in a multiple-narrative story, one that we try to share with everyone, though we have to translate it.”

From Luis Alberto Urrea’s review

Algonquin | $28

RABBIT HEART: A Mother’s Murder, a Daughter’s Story Kristine S. Ervin

When Ervin was 8 years old, her mother was abducted from a mall parking lot; her body was found several days later. This gruesome reality is just the beginning of Ervin’s riveting tale, which resists society’s insistence on conflating both her own and her mothers’ identity with victimhood, even as it marks every facet of her life. A lacerating, bracing read that reminds us not just of the actual people behind the true crime genre, but of our own complicity in its consumption.

“Ervin writes with painful clarity about the instability of a childhood defined by public tragedy. The unanswered questions surrounding her mother’s death meant that even the most familiar of places became potential crime scenes, familiar objects indexes of loss.”

From Alissa Bennett’s review

Counterpoint | $27

MUSE OF FIRE: World War I as Seen Through the Lives of the Soldier Poets Michael Korda

In this erudite and often funny group biography of the Allied soldiers who turned their battlefield experiences into verse during the Great War, Korda tracks the whole arc of public opinion as the conflict progressed, from romantic enthusiasm to incandescent rage.

“Korda’s group portrait of soldier poets skillfully depicts how different classes of men experienced the Western Front and offers an entry point into a rich seam of under-read war poetry.”

From Alice Winn’s review

Liveright | $29.99

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The complicated, generous life  of Paul Auster, who died on April 30 , yielded a body of work of staggering scope and variety .

“Real Americans,” a new novel by Rachel Khong , follows three generations of Chinese Americans as they all fight for self-determination in their own way .

“The Chocolate War,” published 50 years ago, became one of the most challenged books in the United States. Its author, Robert Cormier, spent years fighting attempts to ban it .

Joan Didion’s distinctive prose and sharp eye were tuned to an outsider’s frequency, telling us about ourselves in essays that are almost reflexively skeptical. Here are her essential works .

Each week, top authors and critics join the Book Review’s podcast to talk about the latest news in the literary world. Listen here .