Take your knitting to a new level with the addition of handmade yarn! Spinning is easy to learn, handspun yarn is hot, and with Spin to Knit everything you need to create fun, funky, one-of-a-kind designer yarn is right at your fingertips.
Spin to Knit teaches you all the details about fibers, tools, and materials for getting started spinning, and offers a substantial selection of simple patterns for knitting with that fabulous yarn you've created all on your own. Don't want to spin a lot of yarn? No problem, you'll find lots of ideas for combining your precious handspun with commercial, mill-spun yarns or for accenting sweaters and accessories you already own..
Urban spinner Shannon Okey, author of KnitGrrl, answers all your burning questions about spinning basics. For instance, what fibers are good for close-to-the-skin projects, what's good for layering, and what on earth can you do with dog fur or recycled fabric? Find out the basic tools you need to get started spinning, whether you should begin with a drop spindle or a wheel, why "lumpy bumpy" yarn is your friend, ways to un-lump your yarn, and how to control singles, twist, and ply. Incorporating color in spinning is also introduced, from "dishwasher dyeing," to incorporating beads, thread, or other media into yarns for visual interest.
Inventive patterns include a "cardiganized" thrift shop pullover with a gorgeous handspun buttonband, a faux Fair Isle pullover that combines millspun and handspun yarn, a traditional lace shawl, a shrug based on a woven Swedish heart, a silky sweater made entirely from hairdresser's rayon, and much more.
A great feature of Spin to Knit is the addition of in-depth profiles about urban spinners from all over the country. Learn the personal stories of how these spinners got started, and their insider tips for spinning with style.
Are you bored with commercial yarns? Dare to be different and accessorize all your knitted garments with handmade yarn. Become a full-fledged fiber fanatic with Spin to Knit, the easy guide for any knitter to easily transform into a spinner!
Reviews:
"This book is perfection for newbie and wanna-be spinners who want to do it NOW!" - knitty.com
"Short of shearing the sheep, author Shannon Okey provides everything knitters need to know to take fiber from fuzz to fab." - BUST
"A lighthearted introduction to an ancient craft. . . fun tips of the trade to spin and knit with panache." - Monsters & Critics.com
"Full of inspiration and stories to get those of us who are a little intimidated by spinning over our fear." - Crafts.LovetoKnow.com
"With Spin to Knit everything you need to create one-of-a-kind designer yarn is right at your fingertips." - Get Creative
"Walks you through the process from soup to nuts, from a staunch knitter's vantage point." - Yarn Market News
"All in all, this publication is a fast read, beautifully written and illustrated, and a joy to linger over." - Spindlicity.com
“A wonderful new book… I believe this book can take you to new creative heights, and I highly recommend it. Maybe you can ask Santa for a copy to put under your tree this year. Learning to spin will be the perfect New Year's goal.”-Anchorage Daily News