Knitting is perhaps one of the most underratedly difficult hobbies of all time. Unlike learning how to master the art of oil painting, or exploring how to develop photographic film from scratch, the dexterous and detail-orientated skill is made to seem falsely simple due to its repetitive and often speedy nature.
What’s more, the stereotypical knitter is usually considered to be a grandmother of sorts. We, for one, are frankly dumbfounded by the fact that grannies are only considered capable of mastering ‘easy’ hobbies. A skill made to look simple by years of experience and a very popular advert for Shreddies cereal, mastering the art of knitting is, in fact, no simple task.
As such, you certainly shouldn’t feel defeated if you find that you’re knitting yourself into knots when attempting to craft a pair of handmade socks. Think about it like this; when you break down knitting to its core – crafting full-blown, wearable garments and home accessories from strings of yarn, it’s a creative genesis.
The skilful tradition exists in all the farthest corners of the world, which means that the possibilities of stitch variations and patterns are endless. In reality, you never really stop learning to knit. From intricate Japanese knitting to colourful, traditional Peruvian sweaters, there are countless, global artisans to learn from.
But first, every knitter must learn how to overcome yarn-induced obstacles. From unpicking stitches without unravelling an entire masterpiece, to learning how to properly block a newly stitched jumper to ensure it falls on the body correctly – the best means to learn about the age-old tradition isn’t Google, it’s by hitting the books the old-fashioned way.
As such, we’ve rounded up a selection of the best knitting books for novices and expert stitchers alike. Keep scrolling to keep knitting.
Shop now.
Made with Love by Tom Daley
Proving yet again that truly anyone can become a master knitter, Olympic diver Tom Daley is on a mission to inspire the next generation of knitters. From traditional garments to Gen Z-approved designs, Daley invites us to explore a capsule collection of 30 unique knitting and crochet patterns. From helpful tips and tricks for beginners to size-inclusive garments, homeware and accessories, you’ll be blown away by your newfound creative prowess in no time at all.
Buy now £13.89, Amazon
Knits for Dogs
Because jumpers for pooches living in London are frankly essential. This lovely, pet-orientated knitting book contains 14 different patterns including jumpers, neckerchiefs and snoods for small to medium-sized pups. Why spend a fortune on designer accessories, when you can make your own dog-sized winter warmer for a fraction of the price?
Buy now £10.79, Amazon
250 Japanese Knitting Stitches: The Original Pattern Bible by Hitomi Shida
Originally published in 1996, this veritable knitter’s bible allows novices and intermediates alike to explore the intricate world of Japanese knitting. Translated and introduced by a veteran knitting instructor, Gayle Roehm, this wide-ranging text includes stitches specifically designed for borders and edges, simple and elaborate cable stitches, popcorn stitches, and so much more. Each of the 250 innovative patterns includes a stitch diagram and photo to help you along the way.
Buy now £13.87, Amazon
AlterKnit Stitch Dictionary: 200 Modern Knitting Motifs
Feel like you’ve mastered the basics and are looking for a new, intricate challenge to get the cogs whirring? Look no further than the AlterKnit Stitch Dictionary. Forget Granny Squares and Fisherman’s sweaters, for you’ll be creating detailed patterns previously only achieved with the help of an automated machine. Not only will this text help you to explore new patterns, but it’ll teach you how to combine them to create your own beautiful designs.
Buy now £19.39, Amazon
Vogue Knitting
A fashion-forward option featuring over 1600 photos and hand-drawn step-by-step illustrations, if there’s one knitting book to have on your shelf for the rest of time – it’s Vogue’s expertly curated knitting manual. From learning how to choose the right tools and fibres to creating your own patterns, Vogue Knitting will guide you from novice knits to expert creations faster than you can say stitch.
Buy now £27.69, Amazon
You Will Be Able to Knit by the End of This Book
Promises, promises… yet with the overwhelmingly positive reviews for Rosie Fletcher’s knitting guide, she just might be on to something. A beginner’s handbook which goes back to basics, it includes patterns for chunky scarves, mittens, blankets, hot water bottle cases, baby booties, and more. If your greatest knitting achievement thus far is picking up a pair of needles, this is the book for you.
Buy now £14.33, Amazon
Patty Lyons' Knitting Bag Of Tricks
Like having an expert knitter by your side through every stitch, Lyons’ 70 ‘sanity-saving hacks’ will have you weaving like a pro. The expert will help you improve your knitting know-how by teaching you how to neaten up your gauge and unpick problem stitches. From exploring the anatomy of a stitch to explaining what a finished knit should really feel like, your knitting is bound to improve.
Buy now £12.27, Amazon
Knitting Without Tears
For those who have never picked up a pair of knitting needles, it can be hard to imagine how frustrating the seemingly relaxing activity can become – after all, our grannies make it look far too easy. Knitting legend Elizabeth Zimmerman breaks down simple projects stitch-by-stitch to help you create wonderfully simple projects with ease.
Buy now £11.75, Amazon
The Knitting Answer Book
For when Googling doesn’t suffice, it’s time to check the facts by resorting to old-school research methods. Radcliffe’s problem-solving text will guide you through common knitting mishaps through an easy-to-navigate Q&A format.
Buy now £3.56, Amazon
