Are you hoping to find knitting books that have a cute, kawaii aesthetic or knitting books that are written using the unique Japanese methodology of communicating knitting patterns? If so, this page of Japanese knitting books is likely to be exactly what you’re looking for. The following is a list of Japanese knitting books we’ve reviewed; you’ll find in-depth book reviews of each of these titles posted here on our website. Our knitting book reviews include a summary of the knitting projects included in each book, plus a list of the best things about each title and a list of things to be aware of before you buy each book.
1. Japanese Knitting Stitches From Tokyo’s Kazekobo Studio
This lovely knitting stitch dictionary features instructions for some exceptionally easy stitch patterns and some that are more complex. The easiest knitting stitch patterns in this book are constructed using knit and purl combinations. The book also includes lace knitting stitch patterns, some of which are ultra easy and some of which are fairly complicated. This knitting stitch dictionary also includes a range of cable knitting stitch patterns. The book also offers a grouping of rib and twist stitches that give you bunches of lovely options beyond k2p2 rib.
Overall, this book includes a dazzling variety of truly creative and outstanding knitting stitch patterns. I am in love with my copy of the book and find it to be worth every penny! This book offers you an incredible amount of value for the money you’ll spend on it.
Learn More About This Book:
- Click here to find my detailed book review of Japanese Knitting Stitches From Tokyo’s Kazekobo Studio
- Click here to shop for this book at Amazon.
2. 250 Japanese Stitches: The Original Pattern Bible by Hitomi Shida
Hitomi Shida is one of the world’s most talented knitting pattern designers. Her work is indescribably stunning. If you haven’t yet read any of her books, prepare to have your mind blown.
This book is a knitting stitch dictionary that includes some of Hitomi’s most delightful work: cables, lace knitting patterns, bobble knitting patterns, knitted borders and edgings, and more. If you’re interested in designing new knitting projects using some of the most spectacular knitting stitches conceivable, you absolutely must see this book.
Learn More About This Book:
- Click here to read my detailed book review of this title.
- Click here to shop for this book at Amazon.
3. Keiko Okamoto’s Japanese Knitting Stitches: A Stitch Dictionary With 150 Amazing Patterns
Are you perpetually in search of interesting new knitting stitch patterns that are a bit different from all the other ones you’ve ever tried? If so, prepare to be charmed and delighted by Keiko Okamoto’s brand new knitting stitch dictionary.
This book features some truly intriguing, quirky, innovative, unexpected and creative stitch patterns — including smocking patterns for knitting; three-dimensional textured patterns; unusual and innovative Fair Isle knitting patterns; and textured stitches made using 2 different knitting needle sizes.
But these stitch patterns are not all totally avante-garde. You’ll also find a generous number of stitch patterns that are your usual, standard cables, knit / purl combinations and lace patterns. Whether you’re looking to knit projects that stand out from the crowd or fit in with it, you’ll find pleasing options for stitch patterns included in this book.
Learn More About This Book:
- Click here to check out my detailed book review of Keiko Okamoto’s Japanese Knitting Stitches.
- Click here to shop for this book at Amazon.
4. Japanese Knitting Stitch Bible
If you’re interested in learning how to knit the most spectacular, sophisticated cable and lace patterns ever, the Japanese Knitting Stitch Bible is your best bet for finding suitable patterns to make it happen. This stitch dictionary also includes several intricate knitting patterns for finished projects including a scarf, hat, socks, yokes, collars and fingerless gloves.
Some of these stitches include intricate details in other craft techniques: a few crocheted bobbles here and there, some occasional touches of embroidery, and even a few stitch patterns that incorporate beadwork.
One of the most remarkable things about this book: It teaches you how to understand and interpret Japanese knitting symbols.
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5. Japanese Knitting Book by Michiyo
Want to knit and crochet stylish yet timeless garments and accessories with a distinctive Asian style? If so, Japanese Knitting by Michiyo is worth your consideration. This book includes patterns for knitting and crocheting women’s garments that are both charming and ultra-wearable. Some of these pieces can do double duty; for example, there’s a crocheted tunic that you can also wear as a wrap. Most of the patterns in this book are knitting patterns, but there are enough truly fantastic crochet patterns included in the book that I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend the book to crochet enthusiasts as well as knitters. Overall, this is a delightful book.
Learn More About Japanese Knitting by Michiyo
- Click here to check out our book review of Japanese Knitting by Michiyo
- Click here to shop for this book at Amazon.
6. Finger Knitting for Kids
It isn’t so easy to learn how to knit in the usual way, with 2 knitting needles and yarn. The finger knitting method can eliminate some of the biggest challenges kids encounter when they’re learning how to knit; one of the hardest things is figuring out how to hold the knitting needles and manipulate them, and finger knitting completely eliminates this challenge. It’s one way to get kids knitting quickly, without having to worry that they’ll injure themselves with sharp knitting needles.
If you want to teach your kids finger knitting, the book pictured here — Finger Knitting for Kids — is a fantastic resource to consider sharing with them. This book will help them learn the finger knitting technique plus get started making 15 fun, useful projects. The projects included in the book are hats, scarves, hair accessories, a blanket and others.
This book was originally published in Japanese, but it has been translated into English for your convenience. I’ve shared my honest opinion about the English translation of the book in my detailed book review of Finger Knitting for Kids.
Learn More About This Book:
So there you have it: Those are my top picks for the best Japanese Knitting Books in 2023. I hope you found what you wanted on this list — but if you didn’t, I have some related resources linked below; you’re invited to keep browsing if any of them sound interesting to you.
Amigurumi Patterns to Knit and Crochet
- Voodoo Maggie’s Adorable Amigurumi Crochet Pattern Book
- Arne & Carlos Favorite Designs
- The Woobles Crochet Amigurumi Pattern Book
- Best Crochet Toy Pattern Books: Amigurumi Toys, Baby Toys and More Toys
- Crochet Books
- Best Crochet Books for Beginners
Knitting Tools and Supplies
By Amy Solovay
About Your Book Reviewer — Amy Solovay is a freelance writer with a background in textile manufacturing. She learned to crochet as a small child and learned how to knit as a teenager. After earning two degrees, one of which is in textile design, she launched a career in the textile industry. She has worked as a textile print colorist, knit designer and director of design for various Los Angeles based fabric manufacturers. Later she transitioned to writing about crochet, knitting, crafts and other topics for major media outlets. She enjoys designing crochet and other craft patterns, and she invites you to make use of them.
This page was last updated on 6-19-2023.