Hand Knits by Machine: The Ultimate Guide for Hand and Machine Knitters

Hand Knits by Machine is the one book that fully addresses the issues involved in adapting hand knit patterns and techniques to a knitting machine. Heavily illustrated with photographs and illustrations, the book puts as much emphasis on "why" as it does "how" and will guide both hand and machine knitters through the process. Part One contains individual chapters (Casting On, Increasing and Decreasing, Binding Off, Picking Up Stitches) that specifically focus on duplicating the hand knit methods on the machine - not the usual methods found in knitting machine manuals. There is an extensive chapter on machines, basic stitches and a chapter that illustrates, among other topics, beading techniques and garter bar usage. Part Two dedicates entire chapters to converting Mosaic stitches and lace designs to the machine; by hand selection or with punch cards and electronics. The Entrelac chapter features a unique method based on holding position, requiring no scrapping off. The chapter on Modular knitting covers basic "Domino" squares as well as some unique methods of joining diamond shapes.

This is what some of the best hand knit designers and authors have to say about Hand Knits by Machine: "...A masterful, comprehensive, inspiring book. I love everything about it- the concepts, the illustrations, the organization." Sally Melville, author of The Knitting Experience "..this book a must for hand-knitters wanting to make the leap to the machine, as well as for machine knitters who want to add some great hand-knitting skills to their bag of tricks! Lace, entrelac and mosaic patterning are fascinating when done on the machine, and Susan gives the technical back-up to ensure success." Deborah Newton, author of Designing Knitwear. "A great resource! This volume brings the sensibilities and handcrafted details loved by hand knitters to machine knitting." Norah Gaughan, author of Knitting Nature "In Hand Knits by Machine, Susan Guagliumi guides the hand knitter through her many tips and tricks to make a machine knit sweater look completely handmade. Clear concise directions, explicit photographs and Susan's incredible expertise will turn you into a machine knitter in no time. Bobbles, lace, cables, mosaic and color-work patterns, entrelac and more are all hand knitting techniques that Susan gives instruction for working." Kristin Nicholas, author of Knitting Today's Classics "The process of taking a hand-knit garment and recreating it with a knitting machine can be daunting at first, but with a little guidance, it can be very exciting! Hand Knits by Machine deconstructs each of the steps involved with clear and concise detail, making them understandable and achievable. As well, there are thorough explanations and instructions for techniques hand-knitters love, such as entrelac, mosaic knitting, and modular knitting, demystifying them so they can easily be accomplished with a knitting machine. This book is an excellent resource that will be referred to again and again. " Trisha Malcolm, editor Vogue Knitting Magazine