Knitting
Custom Knits by Wendy Bernard
If you're looking for heavy details on designing your own knits, you won't find it here but if you're looking to make a pattern suit your style, this book is great. It's simple enough that beginners can follow along but even advanced knitters can find useful information. Most of the patterns are seamless top down tops. Side note, there are also instructions on making a pretty cool dress form out of duct tape. Way cool!
Knitwear Design Workshop by Shirley Paden
If you're interested in learning in lots of information for designing your own hand knits, this designer has it covered. She shows you the technical aspects of different design elements, how to write a great pattern and so much more. She has so many examples from her own portfolio that I wish were included in the book but she has opted for detailed quality over quantity. She likes to seam everything, so if you're into seamless top down knitting, you'll need to make a few tweaks. Although she has many design elements I wish there were more but if you find something you like in a pattern, check out how it's done and incorporate into your design.
The Knitting Answer Book by Margaret Radcliffe
Don't know what questions ask or where to begin with different techniques? Need help while you're on the go? I paired this book with youtube, it has been an invaluable resource. When my husband accidentally tossed it the trash with a WIP during a move, I felt it was important enough to replace both this and the crochet answer book.
Knitalong by Larissa and Martin Brown
There are so many way to knit with others. Doesn't matter if you prefer knitting with a group in person, with people on the net or enjoy seeing other's finished objects in ravelry pattern pages... this has a wealth of information on connecting with other knitters including knitting together in history or for a cause. The projects are simple enough that you can easily hold a conversation with a live knitting group or friend, yet practical and nice enough to enjoy or gift.
Fitted Knits by Stefanie Japel
I am a fan of top down knits simply for the fact that I find it's easier to try on as I go and usually needs less finishing at the end. I love her designs. Enough said.
Home Knits by Suss Cousins
This book features plenty of natural style home accents that given a different color or texture can fit most decorating styles. I love that Suss has covered such a variety of different accessories among my favorites are her: seat covers, table runner, swedish bed canopy, bathrobe and ottoman cover however the book includes much more. If you want to add more knitting to the world around you, this book can help.
** Note: more books on knitting and a section for each crochet and tatting to come.
