The Knitting Answer Book: Solutions to Every Problem You'll Ever Face; Answers to Every Question You'll Ever Ask »

Margaret Radcliffe is the author of the best-selling The Knitting Answer Book. In addition to writing about knitting, Radcliffe designs sweaters, teaches knitting techniques, and lectures on knitting.

Every avid knitter has faced this dilemma: deep into a project at midnight, just trying to finish one more row, and, then . . . oh no, a dropped stitch three rows back! Help! If only there was a 24-hour hotline to answer every question a knitter might encounter. Well, now there is, with The Knitting Answer Book . The expert authors, Margaret Radcliffe and Edie Eckman, leave no question unanswered, no quandry unaddressed. Each book contains detailed, illustrated answers to literally hundreds of questions, from the common to the more unusual:

• Are certain needles better for certain yarns?
• What if I dropped a stitch several rows back?
• Why do my edges tend to curl up?
• Can you use a different weight yarn than the pattern calls for?
• What can I do to keep my yarns from tangling up?
• Oops, I see my ribbing is way too tight. Now what?

Covering the whole range of situations a beginner is likely to face, along with the problems that may arise for those working more advanced patterns, this Answer Book will help knitters and crocheters of all levels. Each book is packaged in a small, take-along trim size, in a friendly-to-use Q&A format, and belongs in the bag of every knitter. Available 24/7, The Knitting Answer Book is always open, ready for yarn lovers to browse and consult to their heart’s content.

Sheilah Egan - Children's Literature

Every time I start a new knitting project, I have to get my neighbor to help me cast on the first row. Now I will be able to do it myself because this book has clear instructions for several methods to use. The drawings show exactly what to do by using a contrasting color of yarn so that the stitch and hand/needle position is clear. The table of contents lists chapters that cover the basics, right up to finishing a project. There are sections with resources on the Internet, as well as a bibliography including magazines and books. The index is extensive and extremely helpful. While the book is intended for people who know how to knit but want to "knit better" and feel more confident, the author includes enough information for beginners to feel comfortable. The "Tools" chapter is filled with information about the different types of needles and other items that can make knitting easier and more enjoyable. Abbreviations, sizing charts, knitting terms, pattern vocabulary, and lots more detailed information make this an excellent resource for those who love to knit or are eager to get started. 2005, Storey, Ages 13 up.