Seven Things that can "Make or Break" a Sweater™: Techniques and Tips for Hand Knitters

I finally decided to take the plunge and actually make a man's sweater. As it has been a few years since I knitted, (and I always was self-taught), I knew I needed to refresh my memory of certain techniques, particularly increases and decreases. I dug out my old knitting references, Vogue Knitting and Knitting for Dummies, purchased a book of men's sweaters which features some very basic designs, and purchased some cheap yarn to test out the pattern and techniques. Well, the first thing that happened was, in spite of dutifully and correctly following the instructions, I ran into a problem -- I simply did not like the way the transition area between the ribbing and the main body of the sweater looked. I guess the author of the men's sweater book simplified it a bit too much. But, with the help of this book and the other references, I was able to come up with a nicer way to do several of the steps. It's a really great book. Also, there are some really nice sweater patterns in the back (but not for men) and I hope to try at least one of them out sometime.I highly recommend this book.

I just took a 2 and a half day seminar from Margaret from the techniques in this book. It was at Camp Stitches in North Carolina. One thing to say, most of us in the class were self taught or taught by moms, grandmas, etc. So, to say that these are first level things to know is true, but there are a lot of people that have not had technique classes to know how to make your sweater look and fit really nice. My personal favorite......how to make your left vs right slanting increases and decreases look paired, just leaning in the particular direction and without the nasty holes or twisted stitches. When doing patterns that places these stitches close together, Margaret's information gives your garments the nicest look. She knows her subject well, and even though I have the class notes and handouts, the book is mine as well and will be recommended to all that I teach to knit.

This marvelous book is like taking a master class with a master teacher and knitter. The photos of the techniques are excellent and the layout is easy to read and to follow. Margaret conveys in the clearest manner, exactly how each technique is done and explains in detail why doing them correctly ensures a more perfect finish. I especially love the step-by-step photos which most knitting books decline to include and I find extremely helpful as a visual knitter. If you enjoy knitting and want to take your work to the next level, this is required reading! These are simple but crucial suggestions that can easily be incorporated into any project. The seven important topics addressed are often overlooked and really will make all the difference in the quality of your finished garments.She also includes some classic designs for 7 great garments.And if you get a chance to take a class with Margaret, definitely do so...she's amazing!!!

I am pursuing my Masters in Hand Knitting from TKGA, and I can't think of a more perfect book to have in my library than one written by a Master Knitter herself.... beautifully written and illustrated. I am so happy I have this book to guide me through my learning experiences. This book will be great for beginner knitters as well as advanced ones, learn the right way from the very beginning is a wonderful opportunity and a book to answer any questions knitters with experience might have.

This book has 2 sections-- one of techniques that will improve the look and fit of a sweater and one of patterns that use those techniques. The baby sweater that uses all the techniques is a great first sweater project for beginner knitters or those breaking into sweaters after the land of rectangle knitting (scarves, dishcloths, blankets). I have been knitting for 5+ years and this book had things in there I wish I had known when I knit my first sweaters.

I purchased this book for three of my friends. I personally know the author Margaret Fisher, who is an exceptional knitter. This book teaches one how to knit a sweater that looks professional not homemade. The book takes one from the beginning through the final bind off and seaming. I would suggest this book to everyone who wants to create professional sweaters.

This book is really a knitting class. The information and techniques presented are explained clearly. There are a few patterns in the back of the book that demonstrate the use of the techniques taught. Each chapter teaches a technique that you can then practice by knitting the corresponding steps for a baby cardigan. I learned why to do different techniques and my little cardigan turned out great!

There is nothing quite like opening a new book especially one that holds so many different lessons.After learning from the dvd format I am now comfortable trying it all. I love this, it covers so many different techniques and they are all relatively easy to follow. The road to discovery is wide open to anyone who is inclined to learn this craft.