The Knitter's Dictionary

Starred review from October 1, 2018
This slim, elegant reference work from Atherley (Knit Mitts), lead technical editor for Knitty magazine, is a combination dictionary of knitting terms and introduction to knitting tools and techniques. Whether one is double-checking how to do a yarnover or how to master the art of magic loop (a way of making seamless garments using circular or double-pointed needles), the entries and drawings give short, clear explanations, intended to help experienced knitters with works already in progress. Atherley is thoughtful enough to provide explanations of knitting tools and terms most self-taught or even grandmother-taught knitters might not know, such as understanding all the complicated information contained on yarn labels, the reason for different types of increases (added stitches), and knitter slang like “frogging,” as well as an extremely useful aid for selecting and using various types of yarn. Unlike many knitting books, the diagrams and drawings included here are clearly drawn and easy to decipher. The book is small but filled with enough useful information to make it a go-to reference in any knitting library.