Knitting in the Old Way by Priscilla A. Gibson-Roberts and Deborah Robson, softback published by Nomad Press in the USA. Price 27.95 US dollars, ISBN 978-0-9668289-6-2, available from www.nomad-press.com

This book takes you back to knitting before charts and line by line instructions became the norm. It looks at traditional knitting from around the world and teaches the designs and techniques of ethnic sweaters. It is suitable for beginners and advanced knitters alike.

There is a reason for being – an introduction to the origins of knitting, methods and techniques, which along with the basic patterns take up a third of the book. The latter have all been drawn to the same size so that you can mix and match. 

We then go on lessons of discovery around the world, starting with Norway, we then visit Sweden, Great Britain, Iceland, the Faroe Islands, Samiland, Canada and America to discover different motifs, patterns and ways to use colour stranding. Catch your breath for we are now on an adventure of a different kind to discover intarsia, this time in Denmark, Great Britain, The Netherlands, Ireland, Norway, Austria and Germany. A briefer look into geometric patterning takes us to Denmark, Scotland and Finland. Finally there is a Finnish sweater combining crochet and knitting. 

At the beginning of each section, there is a brief introduction to the history of the technique in the given country. There are examples of typical sweaters. Charts are given for the motifs. It is up to you to take it from there – will you follow the traditional style and colouring, will you adapt? Will you take it beyond the boundaries of the norm?

This is my favourite of all Nomad Press’s knitting books – it encourages discovery. You gain a sense of history, a basic dictionary of stitches and motifs, a basic book of pattern shapes. Most of all you learn that knitting is a path of discovery that can take you anywhere. The versatility of this art is present in this book. The 312 page black and white book with line drawings is well worth the price. I would not let go of mine for ten times the price.

Simple Socks, Plain and Fancy by Priscilla A. Gibson-Roberts, softback published by Nomad Books in the USA. Price 14.95 US dollars, ISBN 978-0-9668289-4-8, available from www.nomad-press.com

This book helps you to knit custom socks using two simple measurements. You can start the pattern at the toe or top. Learn to shape heels and toes the easy way. Learn how to add colour for stripes or in motifs and patterns. Incorporate lace or texture and make unique socks that last.

In the preface, Priscilla states that “instead fo patterns, I offer a structure”. You can use this same structure to knit any design you wish. Priscilla gives an understanding to the basic principles of sock-making, so that you learn to apply them to whichever pattern you are developing. The same short-row principles can be applied to mittens.

This 112 page book is a complete know-how on sock knitting, it’s a masterclass. The book is in black and white with techniques and finished items attractively illustrated.

This book will help you to discover ethnic patterns from around the world. Donna makes knitting your own sweaters that fit a feat of simplicity. She offers four simple sweater shapes and all the basics you need to master the technique of designing your own sweater without fear.

Donna then takes a look at knitting styles and patterns from the Netherlands, Denmark, Norway and the Andes and offers motifs for you to use. Learn how to knit in the round (my least likeable method, but hey no seams). Understand charts, centre a pattern or motif, manage repeat patterns. Discover how to work with texture or colour. Find out about half gussets and how to cut and stitch armholes and necklines. You can choose from quick notes, a visual plan or detailed guidelines to work the patterns. 

The guidance is clear and easy to follow. The finished sweaters are line drawings, in this two-colour, 176 page book. There is much to learn here that you might not find elsewhere.

Arctic Lace by Donna Druchunas, softback published by Nomad Press in the USA. Price 26.95 US dollars, ISBN 978-0-9668289-7-9 available from www.nomad-press.com

This book is subtitled Knitting Projects and Stories Inspired by Alaska’s Native Knitters. The subject is Qiviut, musk ox down, used to knit fine lace. It makes its claim to fame as the softest, lightweight and most luxurious yarn.

In this book, you will learn all about musk ox down, following the footsteps of Donna as she uncovers the history of this beautiful fibre. Discover the knitters of Oomingmak Musk Ox Producers’ Cooperative and the beautiful garments they make. You’ll also be able to design and knit your own lace. 

This book is ideal for beginners and advanced knitters alike. Donna looks at the different laces from different regions. She gives a lace-knitting workshop, providing tips for experienced knitters. In three easy lessons, you can produce lace swatches, knitted from charts. There is useful information on how to block lace. You will find a series of fourteen projects for knitting lace, again using charts. These include a headband, hats, scarves, wrist warmers and waistcoats. In the final chapter, there is useful information on designing and making your own garments. There is a page with a graph that can be copied for your own charts. This section includes a dictionary of twelve lace stitch patterns for borders and panels. There is also a sources section.

This 192 page book is produced entirely in black and white. It is a fantastic introduction into a world of knitting that few know about. Musk ox down is scarce and you may need to substitute yarn.