The Very Easy Guide to Cable Knitting

Reviews / Votes

First published in 2010, Watterson's "very easy guide" follows a logical approach to cable knitting, dividing the instructions into 21 lessons and 13 projects. Both front- and back-end lessons establish the basics, from yarns and chart reading to blocking/pressing and aftercare essentials. In between are the three grouped cabling guides-mock cables, cable panels, and cable patterns. Each includes a quick overview, then launches into patterns (some with variations), filled with colour photographs of finished examples, charts, and written details. Plus the projects: scarf, storage basket, baby blanket, knitting bag, cushion, and more. Tips are scattered throughout (e.g., keep one label from the yarn as well as a snippet) as are designer tips (how to fringe, for example). No level of difficulty is indicated, though readers can assume that projects progress from easy to more difficult. Knitters will need to flip to the appendices for abbreviation definitions. A good second step after consulting references like the Vogue Knitting series. -- Barbara Jacobs * Booklist, July Issue * I love books like this as they give you so many ideas of different stitches that can be used. The bonus with this book is that it has a selection of projects where you can apply cable stitches. The patterns are all easy to follow with clear written instruction and the photos make it clear how the end project should look. There are a variety of yarns used from Dk to super quick projects using chunky wool. The samples with different cables have charts as well as written instructions, so are great for visual learners who may find it tricky to follow written instructions.

If you are not a fan of traditional cable you can try some of the "mock" cable stitches where you do not need a cable needle.

This book would be a great addition to your stitch library. -- Monica Russel Author and Knitwear designer