Knitty Gritty: Knitting for the Absolute Beginner

I have not bought any other knitting books for beginners except for this one but I can honestly say this book is perfect for any novice. My mother in law showed me how to knit and purl but with the help of this book I can comfortably cast on, knit some simple patterns, cable and cast off few projects with confidence by myself. All the patterns and techniques are clearly explained which helps your confidence before moving onto different slightly more complicated patterns elsewhere. I have never been happier with a book purchase before, get it and don't hesitate!

I haven't picked up knitting needles for about 25 years, so I shopped around to find an up to date guide to get me started again, and this one had the most five star reviews.Which surprised me - to be honest, I didn't find it all that helpful. It manages to be too basic and yet confusing at the same time. There are far too many full-page photos showing people knitting or wearing knitted garments, pages that would have been better used to show a wider variety of stitches, or to provide tips and techniques in more detail. A ring-bound format might have been useful, too, so you could prop the book open as you follow instructions.She's obviously going for a friendly, approachable tone but I found it annoyingly patronising in places ("... I'm sure you are a bright, successful human being. But remember that you are now learning something completely new ...")Admittedly, it's hard to take clear photos which show you how to knit, which is why it's probably better, these days, to use the internet: youtube is full of demonstrations which you can pause and rewind as needed. Though I did find the section on how to sew up your garment quite helpful.As a very general introduction to knitting for the complete beginner, this just scrapes three stars, I suppose: though if I was rating it on those bizarre patterns at the end (hardly an incentive to learn - knitted phone cover for a teenage boy, anyone?) I'd want to give it a firm zero.

This is a fantastic book that is actually aimed at complete beginners. Even as my skill level has improved, I regularly refer to some of the early lessons (sewing up, for example) as they're so clear. The included project patterns are really good too - I've successfully made the hat, booties and flower so far, an amazing accomplishment for a beginner! Highly recommend to anyone keen to get into knitting.

Perfect easy to read & follow for absolute beginners in English not knit speak. Really useful, presented with Q&A, kniters notes & handy hints boxes. It’s like having a more experienced knitter who shows you at your pace next to you, getting to the knitty gritty

Amazing step by step guide refreshed on how to knit squares and taught how to actually read patterns and do pearl stitch so i am now able to do simple easy patterns such as baby cardigans highly recommend if you want to learn to knit

I really like this book as a complete beginner at knitting. Instructions are well written, and pretty simple to understand for the basic stitches. There are a few good items in this book - primarily childrens clothing which isnt particularly suited to me - but for learning the beginning of a skill this is very well laid out.

I love this book and I think as a beginner to knitting that this is so perfectly written and explained and illustrated that anyone whether new to knitting or a pro would find it helpful and could build on their knowledge that they already have or can create a great steppingstone for those that know nothing about knitting (like myself). I have looked through this book and I can't wait to delve straight into the different tutorials and creating the different items in the 20 different products that you get to make throughout this book. It takes you from absolute beginner to moderate level and there's a sequel to this book coming out in the next couple of months that will take you from moderate onwards which I think is just absolutely fantastic. I think the author of this book has done such a great job at explaining things thoroughly yet simply that many other authors of knitting and craft books have fallen short of doing. It is very easy for people to make crafts seem very complicated with complicated books and terminology that sometimes can deter people from taking up a craft or a skill, I'm so thankful that I did find this book as it has made me want to get into knitting and get to know the craft that I've always been interested in. You are never too young or old to start up any craft and I would advise all of you who are interested in knitting to buy this book and get started now. I really hope this review has helped you with your choices and thank you for taking the time to read it :-)

I have found this book very useful. I have never knitted before but with the instructions and tips, I'm knitting rather well and really enjoying it. There is advice about the best yarn and needles to use, pictures along with the precise written instructions which helps me at every step. It's a very accessible book. I like that there are projects to go through, so that when one is completed I have the feeling of accomplishment, although I think I'll give the knitted ties a miss. My chunky scarf is coming along nicely and overall I am finding knitting really relaxing and enjoyable.