Three Birthday Books
I was lucky enough to receive three wonderful knit-related books for my birthday. My birthday was on January 14th but I’m a big believer in celebrating my birthday for not just a day but a week or two! So please indulge me while I share some of the presents I received.
The Knitter’s Book of Wool was written by Clara Parkes, the author of the immensely popular The Knitter’s Book of Yarn and editor of Knitter’s Review. This book is big and beautiful and I can hardly wait to dig in.
The book is a guide to the anatomy of wool fibre, turning wool into yarn, sheep breeds, and different effects achieved by blending wool with different fibres. There is also a pattern section that goes into more detail than most about why a particular yarn was chosen for each project. Thanks to my Aunt Shelley for this one!
I’ve wanted to read this book for a long time (thanks Aunt Tracy!). Amy King, the author of Spin Control, is the owner of Maine-based fibre studio Spunky Eclectic. The book covers basic spinning techniques but with an emphasis on producing the type of yarn that you want, and want to knit with. I haven’t demonstrated much control in my spinning up to this point, so here’s to hoping I’ll learn some helpful tips from Amy!
My knitting partner for life gave me this sweet book. The Surprise is a wordless picture book by Sylvia van Ommen about Sheep’s quest to make a special gift for her best friend. It’s such a nice story of generosity and gift giving!
Tags: Amy King, Clara Parkes, Sylvia van Ommen




January 25th, 2010 at 2:55 am
What great books! I’ve been meaning to check out the Clara Parkes ones for *so long*, they always seem like they are the sorts of book that will really make you a better and more knowledgeable knitter (and purchaser of yarn and fibre!).
Happy belated birthday to you – hope you’ve been enjoying the celebrations!
January 25th, 2010 at 8:33 pm
Your birthday’s over?? I’m still drinking champagne!
These books look amazing. “The Surprise” looks especially sweet!