Knit, Hook, and Spin

March 28, 2016
This collection of fiber arts projects introduces the basics of weaving, knitting, sewing, crochet, and other techniques, while providing an approachable history of these cloth-based crafts. The projects can be as simple as wrapping wool fiber around soap to create a “natural scrubber” and as involved as knitting a pair of slippers, perhaps using yarn dyed at home using spices, beet powder, or drink mixes. Augmented by b&w line illustrations, Carlson’s warm, straightforward writing clearly describes each project, along with supplemental historical details (“People began weaving thousands of years ago, using twigs as a loom”). Readers interested in exploring fiber crafts should find this to be an accessible entry point, with a broad range of methods to try. Ages 9–12.

April 15, 2016
Nimble fingers can learn how to felt, spin, weave, knit, and crochet a wide variety of wearable and useful objects. Carlson, an author of many craft titles for children, has organized this how-to by type of material and provides step-by-step directions that are accompanied by line drawings. She provides some background information, a list of required materials, and specific steps to create the projects. Starting with felting and moving on to knotting and braiding, spinning, weaving, knitting, and crocheting, Carlson also includes pages on dying, recycling, and community activities. The materials that are required can be home-fashioned, such as using chopsticks to make knitting needles, as an alternative to purchasing them ready-made. She is careful to note when adult supervision is necessary, as in dying projects, and concludes with a note to adults about the many benefits of fabric and yarn crafts. From slippers to tote bags and from friendship bracelets to comfort dolls, there is something for almost anyone wanting to learn how to create from these very tactile sources. Tear up your T-shirts, unravel old sweaters, warm up your fingers, and create some handcrafted fun for yourself, for friends, and for those in need of small comforts. (note to adults) (Nonfiction. 8-12)

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May 1, 2016

Gr 4-7-In this joyous exploration of fiber arts, students will learn how to felt, knot, spin, weave, knit, crochet, and dye a variety of textiles. Before the activities begin, different fibers (natural and synthetic) are defined and given a brief history-a valuable resource for even the most seasoned of crafters. Each section provides a comprehensive overview of practical skill-building projects and fun decorative ones. For instance, in the "Weaving" chapter, string art coasters introduce kids to crossing yarn strands so that they can later make tiny fork flowers. The highlight of this title is in the copious amounts of historical, technical, and pop culture information that appears in sidebars-ranging from the boycott of English cloth by Indian independence seekers to George Washington Carver's expertise on and love of textile arts. Social issues are also briefly covered with the mention of the use of crochet mats by charity and church organizations for the homeless (to keep bedding dry) and comfort dolls for abused or traumatized children.

Copyright 2016 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

Starred review from May 15, 2016
Grades 5-8 *Starred Review* Kudos to Carlson for giving readers a look at not just one or two of the fiber arts but a whole basket full of them, including knitting, felting, knotting, braiding, spinning, weaving, crocheting, and dyeing. Whew! She begins with a history of fiber handcrafts, advice on how to choose projects, and informative Know Your Fibers pages that can easily be used in classrooms. Each section also provides historical information: how and where the craft developed and the ways it was put to use in the community. Once she gets into the how-to portions, Carlson provides clear instructions, both for learning the nitty-gritty of each craft, as well as in the directions for each project. Among the creations on offer are felted bags, finger- (and needle-) knit scarves, crocheted necklaces, tie-dyed tees, woven coasters, and braided rugs. Though color artwork would have been nice, the sturdy black-and-white illustrations are clear and easy to understand. In fact, the whole design, with its clean layout and good-sized print, invites children to pick it up right alongside a piece of yarn . . . or twine . . . or cloth . . . well, you get the idea.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2016, American Library Association.)