36 of the Best Knitting Books for 2024 and Beyond

Are you looking for high-quality knitting books that will teach you interesting knitting techniques or give you lovely knitting patterns to work on?


Welcome to my list of the best knitting books for 2024 and beyond. I hope you’ll find this resource helpful.


Many people have opinions about what the “best” knitting pattern books are. In case you’re wondering why should you care about my opinion on this topic, I’ll briefly share a bit about my background and the methodology I’ve used for determining which books to include on this list.


About the Author of This Page: I’m Amy Solovay, hand knitter, crocheter and textile designer. It’s nice to “meet” you!


I learned to crochet as a child and learned to knit by hand as a teenager. I hold a degree in textile design from FIDM LA (The Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising, Los Angeles. I also hold a bachelor’s degree in Mathematics (with a studio art minor) from Sweet Briar College in Sweet Briar, Virginia.


After graduation from college, I worked in the textile industry for about a decade. I held assorted jobs, one of which was “knit designer” for a large Los Angeles-based fabric converter.


I am a real person, not AI and not a robot.


I have real opinions that are based on solid, real-world experience with knitting. I’m knowledgeable about hand knitting, machine knitting and (to a lesser degree) loom knitting.


You need to understand this because it is now possible for automation technologies to crank out knitting books filled with patterns that don’t work out. I don’t want you to waste your precious time and your hard-earned money on knitting patterns that have floats that are too long, or stitches that are impossible to execute (and that’s just a short list of the possible problems with them.)


So that’s why I recommend considering the suggestions I’ve shared on this page rather than hitting the back button to try your luck with other search results.


The following is a list of knitting books I’ve reviewed; you’ll find in-depth book reviews of each title posted on this website. My 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. Fair Isle Knitting: 22 Traditional Patterns from Where the Atlantic Meets the North Sea

Fair Isle Knitting Book: 22 Traditional Patterns from Where the Atlantic Meets the North Sea by Carina Olsson, Published by Trafalgar Square Books

Fair Isle Knitting Book: 22 Traditional Patterns from Where the Atlantic Meets the North Sea by Carina Olsson, Published by Trafalgar Square Books


This gorgeous hardcover Fair Isle knitting book focuses on giving you tips, ideas and patterns for creating spectacular color knitting projects using the stranded colorwork technique. The projects included in the book are tams, sweaters for women and children, cowls, mittens, gloves, and project bags. Inspiring photography and gorgeous colorways give you a couple of additional reasons to want to own this beautiful book.


Learn More About This Book:

2. Vivian Hoxbro’s Knitting Handbook: 8 Schools of Modular Knitting

Vivian Hoxbro's Knitting Handbook: 8 Schools of Modular Knitting

Vivian Hoxbro’s Knitting Handbook: 8 Schools of Modular Knitting


If you’re a beginner to knitting, or you haven’t yet figured out how to knit mitered squares, entrelac, circle shapes or similar knitted configurations, this is the book for you. Modular knitting will free you from feeling obligated to start all your projects at the lower edge and knit them upwards in tidy rows or rounds. In this book, you’ll learn how to knit staircase patterns, zigzag patterns, shell patterns and other intriguing configurations.


Learn More About This Book:

3. Handknits From Rauma, Norway: 30 New Takes on Traditional Scandinavian Designs

Author: Bente Presterud


Handknits From Rauma, Norway -- a Knitting Pattern Book by Bente Presterud, Published by Trafalgar Square Books

Handknits From Rauma, Norway — a Knitting Pattern Book by Bente Presterud, Published by Trafalgar Square Books


This lovely new knitting pattern book showcases vintage and contemporary Norwegian knit design in a refreshing way. This book offers a variety of knitting patterns for both men and women; many different silhouettes and project types are presented. In addition to the usual pullovers and cardigans, you’ll also find a lovely dress pattern; a knitted set featuring a pair of pants and matching pullover; plus a hooded cape-style poncho and many other fantastic patterns. Many of these patterns utilize bulky yarn and simple silhouettes. This is one of my favorite new knitting books; you won’t want to miss it!


Learn More About This Book:

4. Norwegian Sweaters & Jackets: 37 Stunning Scandinavian Patterns

Author: Kari Hestnes


Norwegian Sweaters and Jackets Knitting Pattern Book: 37 Stunning Scandinavian Patterns

Norwegian Sweaters and Jackets Knitting Pattern Book: 37 Stunning Scandinavian Patterns


This is one of the prettiest knitting books I have ever held in my hands. The patterns in this book are exquisite. Aside from the patterns, the book is overflowing with truly gorgeous nature photographs taken by the book’s author. If you enjoy pretty garments, armchair travel and nature photography, this book is one you will definitely want to check out.


Learn More About This Book:

5. Jorid Linvik’s Big Book of Knits for Kids:Over 45 Distinctive Scandinavian Patterns

6.Selbu Mittens: Discover the Rich History of a Norwegian Knitting Tradition with Over 500 Charts and 35 Classic Patterns

Selbu Mittens: Discover the Rich History of a Norwegian Knitting Tradition with Over 500 Charts and 35 Classic Patterns

Selbu Mittens: Discover the Rich History of a Norwegian Knitting Tradition with Over 500 Charts and 35 Classic Patterns


This book is a masterpiece!


Its authors set out to create a thorough and exhaustive reference book on the topic of Selbu mittens — and their efforts were so successful as to be impressive. In the process of creating this book, they had to interview countless people, pursue countless leads (not to mention some dead ends) and dig through bunches of museum archives.


A truly mind-boggling amount of effort went into the creation of this book.


The result is an encyclopedic collection of mitten motif patterns and historic information on both the techniques and history of mitten knitting — and, by extension, knitting in general — in the Selbu region of Norway.


But despite all the historic information this book contains, it isn’t a dull, dry history book. In my opinion, the most compelling aspect of this book is the 500+!!!! charted-out motif patterns for knitting stars, borders, flowers and other designs. But, there’s also an unbelievable amount of technical information about how mittens are constructed. If you’re either a knitting pattern designer, or an aspiring knitting pattern designer, you will probably find this book invaluable, because there are NO other books I know of that devote so much effort in communicating historic methods of mitten construction. AND, not only that, you also get 35 ready-made mitten knitting patterns designed by some of Norway’s most talented knitters and designers.


If you have any interest at all in knitting mittens, or in the history of knitting, or in Scandinavian history, this book is a book you’ll definitely want to get your hands on.


Learn More About This Book:

7. Jorid Linvik’s Big Book of Christmas Knits

Jorid Linvik's Big Book of Christmas Knits

Jorid Linvik’s Big Book of Christmas Knits


How serious are you about knitting ultra-cool, unique and head-turning Christmas gifts for your loved ones? If it’s your mission in life to knit impressive gifts this holiday season, you absolutely must take a look at Jorid Linvik’s brand new, big book of Christmas knits.


This book has two different types of patterns. The first is Christmas-themed patterns for knitting items such as Christmas stockings and advent calendar treat bags. The second is small, gift-worthy items that do not have a specific Christmas theme, and could be used all year around — items like hats, mittens and cowls.


The wearable items in this book are sized for men, women and children. There are BUNCHES of wonderful gift ideas or people of all ages and both genders. There are also patterns for home decor items included.


Learn More About This Book:

8. Lace Knitting: 40 Openwork Patterns, 30 Lovely Projects, Countless Ideas and Inspiration

Lace Knitting Book by Denise Samson, Published by Trafalgar Square Books

Lace Knitting Book by Denise Samson, Published by Trafalgar Square Books


This book includes some of the most spectacular lace knitting patterns I have ever seen including blankets, sweaters, accessories and more. If you want to knit lace projects suitable for women, children and babies, this book is likely to be of interest to you.


Learn More About This Book:

9. Cable Knits From Nordic Lands

Cable Knits From Nordic Lands Published by Trafalgar Square Books

Cable Knits From Nordic Lands by Ivar Asplund, published by Trafalgar Square Books

The featured projects included in this book are wearable cable-knit garments and accessories including sweaters, vests, hats and many others. The author of this book is both an expert knitter and an expert teacher, and his expertise shines through in virtually every aspect of this book.


One of the things I appreciate most about this book: It is both a pattern book and a stitch dictionary, and it includes a section that’s devoted to showing you cable stitch patterns that you could incorporate into your own knit designs if you are inclined to do your own design work.

Learn More About This Book:

10. Colorful Knit Soxx

Colorful Knit Soxx by Kerstin Balke, A Sock Knitting Pattern Book published by Stackpole Books A Sock Knitting Pattern Book

Colorful Knit Soxx by Kerstin Balke, A Sock Knitting Pattern Book published by Stackpole Books A Sock Knitting Pattern Book

Banish boring socks from your drawers! These 26 sock patterns will give you bunches of choices for ultra-creative, impressive socks that are suitable for either men or women. Most of the patterns in this book are patterned socks, but a few of the patterns are striped or solid-colored.

Learn More About This Book:

11. Traditional Danish Sweaters

Traditional Danish Sweaters: 200 Stars and Other Classic Motifs From Historic Sweaters, published by Trafalgar Square Books

Traditional Danish Sweaters: 200 Stars and Other Classic Motifs From Historic Sweaters, published by Trafalgar Square Books


Traditional Danish Sweaters is part stitch dictionary, part pattern book and part history book. The author of this book has given you a priceless gift. She has spent hours upon hours upon hours culling through materials from Danish museum archives. Then she collected the most important knowledge she gained from the experience and compiled it into this easy-to-use book. If you’re at all interested in knitting history, or you’d like to include traditional Danish design elements and motifs into your knitwear, this book is going to be of exceptional value to you.

12. Seed Stitch: Beyond Knit 1, Purl 2

Seed Stitch Book by Rosemary Drysdale, Published by Sixth&Spring Books; This photo of the book cover accompanies our Seed Stitch knitting book review, posted online at KnittingCrochetCrafts.com

Seed Stitch Book by Rosemary Drysdale, Published by Sixth&Spring Books; This photo of the book cover accompanies our Seed Stitch knitting book review, posted online at KnittingCrochetCrafts.com


Perhaps you think of seed stitch as being a basic and slightly boring knitting stitch for beginners. If that’s your mindset, you’re going to be blown away when you see all the spectacular things you can do with the humble seed stitch. Let Seed Stitch: Beyond Knit 1, Purl 1 be your guide to bunches of different colorwork and texture stitch patterns you can knit, simply by varying the seed stitch in interesting ways. This book is a stitch dictionary that also includes bunches of lovely knitting projects you can make.


Learn More About This Book:

13. Japanese Knitting Stitches From Tokyo’s Kazekobo Studio

Japanese Knitting Stitches From Tokyo's Kazekobo Studio, a stitch dictionary by Yoko Hatta, published by Tuttle Publishing

Japanese Knitting Stitches From Tokyo’s Kazekobo Studio, a stitch dictionary by Yoko Hatta, published by Tuttle Publishing


If you’re in need of a new knitting stitch dictionary, this book is an excellent choice to consider. It features instructions for knitting stitch patterns that are accessible to knitters of all skill levels. Many of the knit and purl stitch combinations are ultra easy ones. The book also features some easy lace knitting stitch patterns, plus some that are more complex. The book also includes an exploration of cable knitting stitch patterns — some that are easy and basic, and others that get much more intricate and challenging. Rounding out the selection is a grouping of rib and twist stitches that give you bunches of lovely options beyond k2p2 rib.

Overall, this book includes a whole lot of truly creative and outstanding design work. It is an incredible value for its asking price.

Learn More About This Book:

14. 250 Japanese Stitches: The Original Pattern Bible by Hitomi Shida

250 Japanese Knitting Stitches: The Original Pattern Bible by Hitomi Shida, published by Tuttle Publishing

250 Japanese Knitting Stitches: The Original Pattern Bible by Hitomi Shida, published by Tuttle Publishing


If you were to ask me to choose a top knitting heroine, I’d have a hard time coming up with just one. There are so many talented knit designers, and knitters, out there. But for sure, Hitomi Shida would have to be included on the list, at the top of it. Hitomi’s work is absolutely, jaw-droppingly incredible. If you haven’t seen her work yet, prepare to have your mind blown.


This book is a knitting stitch dictionary that includes some of Hitomi’s finest work: cable knitting patterns, lace patterns, bobble patterns, edging patterns 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:

15. Keiko Okamoto’s Japanese Knitting Stitches: A Stitch Dictionary With 150 Amazing Patterns

Keiko Okamoto's Japanese Knitting Stitches: A Stitch Dictionary With 150 Amazing Patterns, published by Tuttle Publishing

Keiko Okamoto’s Japanese Knitting Stitches: A Stitch Dictionary With 150 Amazing Patterns, published by Tuttle Publishing


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:

16. Finger Knitting for Kids

Finger Knitting for Kids Book

Finger Knitting for Kids Book: Super Cute & Easy Things to Make by Eriko Teranishi, published by Tuttle Publishing


It can be a challenge to learn to knit in the traditional way, with 2 knitting needles and yarn. The finger knitting method can eliminate many of the complexities inherent in the knitting process. It’s one way to get kids knitting quickly, without having to worry that they will stab themselves with sharp knitting needles.

If you want to teach your kids finger knitting, the book pictured here — Finger Knitting for Kids — is an excellent reference 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.


Learn More About This Book:

17. Socks From Around Norway

Socks From Around Norway: Over 40 Traditional Knitting Patterns Inspired by Norwegian Folk-Art Collections, by Nina Granlund Sæther, published by Trafalgar Square Books

Socks From Around Norway: Over 40 Traditional Knitting Patterns Inspired by Norwegian Folk-Art Collections, by Nina Granlund Sæther, published by Trafalgar Square Books

This lovely book is part knitting pattern book, part sock knitting instruction manual and part history book.


In it, the author, Nina Granlund Sæther, explores the history of sock knitting in Norway. She shares interesting details about historic socks that she has learned from perusing various museum archives and historical society materials.


Along with the history, she also shares 41 sock knitting patterns she has created by reinterpreting the antique Norwegian socks she discovered in museum archives. Her socks are suitable projects for contemporary knitters, and at the same time, they are clearly reminiscent of their vintage inspiration pieces. The results are patterns that are both classic and timely.


This book is really a treasure. If you’re interested in sock knitting, you’ll definitely want to check it out.


Learn More About This Book:

18. Maja’s Swedish Mittens

Maja's Swedish Mittens, a Knitting Pattern Book Published By Trafalgar Square Books

Maja’s Swedish Mittens, a Knitting Pattern Book Published By Trafalgar Square Books


If you want to knit some new mittens, you have a tough choice ahead of you — because there are zillions of amazing mitten patterns available. If stranded colorwork knitting patterns are of interest to you (and even if they aren’t), Maja’s Swedish Mittens has a whole bunch of lovely choices to consider. Many, but not all, of the mittens in this book are stranded colorwork designs. There are also patterns for knitting plain mittens, lace mittens, cabled mittens, striped mittens and fingerless gloves.

19. Knitting for the Fun of It!

Knitting for the Fun of It! Book by Frida Ponten, Published by Trafalgar Square Books. The book cover, pictured here, shows several of the colorful knitting projects you'll learn how to make using the patterns and instructions included.

Knitting for the Fun of It! Book by Frida Ponten, Published by Trafalgar Square Books. The book cover, pictured here, shows several of the colorful knitting projects you’ll learn how to make using the patterns and instructions included.


The knitting patterns in this book fall into several categories:

  • Colorful
  • Bohemian
  • Sophisticated

Some of these designs manage to be all 3 of the above at once.


Although there are several solid-colored knitting projects included in the book, most of these patterns are daring and colorful without being over the edge. They’re exactly the pieces you want to reach for when you’re ensemble looks a little too blah — a colorful chevron scarf; a pair of stripey multicolored socks; mittens that incorporate several different colorwork patterns; and more. The book will even teach you how to dye your own yarns.


What really surprised me, though: how many easy patterns are in the book, considering their level of visual sophistication. Not all the patterns in the book are easy, but there are quite a few of them.


Learn More About This Book:

20. The Big 3 Knitting Techniques

The Big 3 Knitting Techniques Book by Ann-Mari Nilsson, Published by Trafalgar Square Books

The Big 3 Knitting Techniques Book by Ann-Mari Nilsson, Published by Trafalgar Square Books


Get patterns for several classic garments and accessories: A slouchy hat, two vests, a cardigan sweater and mittens; then learn how to customize these basic patterns using a broad variety of different stitch patterns from 3 different knitting techniques:

  • Stranded colorwork knitting (like Fair Isle)
  • Slip stitch knitting
  • Relief stitches / textured knitting

Learn More About The Big 3 Knitting Techniques Book:

21. Knockout Knit Hats and Hoods


Knockout Knit Hats and Hoods, a Knitting Pattern Book by Diane Serviss, published by Stackpole Books.

Knockout Knit Hats and Hoods, a Knitting Pattern Book by Diane Serviss, published by Stackpole Books.


If hats are your go-to knitting projects — or if you’ve never knitted a hat before, but you want to try it — you’ll definitely want to take a look at this lovely new hat pattern book. All the patterns in this book are hats, hoods and hooded cowls. Some of the designs are ideal for everyday wear, and a few of them are more fanciful. All of them are practical, wearable styles that you could count on to keep your head warm on chilly days. The short version of my book review: I LOVE this book and highly recommend it!

Find Out More About Knockout Knit Hats and Hoods:

22. Dogs on Sweaters: Knitting Patterns for 18 Different Dog Breeds

Dogs on Sweaters: Knitting Patterns for 18 Different Dog Breeds by Sally Muir and Joanna Osborne, Published by Trafalgar Square Books

Dogs on Sweaters: Knitting Patterns for 18 Different Dog Breeds by Sally Muir and Joanna Osborne, Published by Trafalgar Square Books


Is there a dog lover on your gift knitting list? Or maybe you’re a dog lover, yourself. If you’d be interested in finding fun, playful dog-themed knitting patterns, you absolutely need to check out Dogs on Sweaters by Sally Muir and Joanna Osborne. This lovely hardcover book includes charted patterns for knitting 18 different dog breeds — plus you also get patterns for knitting customizable sweaters and other projects using these charts. There are projects suitable for men, women, babies, children — and even one cute dog sweater pattern, too.


The book includes an outstanding selection of baby projects including a lovely patchwork baby blanket plus baby booties and more. If you’re in need of cute baby patterns, definitely consider this book as a possibility.

Learn More About This Book:

23. Winter Knits From Scandinavia: 24 Patterns for Hats, Mittens and Socks

Winter Knits From Scandinavia by Jenny Alderbrant (Also Known as JennyPenny), published by Trafalgar Square Books.

Winter Knits From Scandinavia by Jenny Alderbrant (Also Known as JennyPenny), published by Trafalgar Square Books.


This is one of the loveliest knitting pattern books I have ever seen. The photography featured in the book is exquisite. It perfectly captures the Swedish landscape, along with some of the people, animals and knitting projects native to that landscape. (Cute lamb pictures, anyone?)


The projects included in the book are gorgeous Scandinavian style two-color stranded knitting patterns. This is basically the same type of technique as Fair Isle knitting. To make these projects, you work in stockinette stitch, with multiple color changes per row that form interesting pattern designs.


This author also occasionally adds details in other colors using duplicate stitch. For example, there’s a pair of eye-catching fox themed mittens included in the book where the fox is mostly orange and the background is white. You can add yellow eyes plus black details to the fox’s nose and eyes using duplicate stitch — how clever!


Design themes include animals, butterflies, florals, traditional Scandinavian motifs and others. There are designs suitable for women, men and children.


Learn More About This Book:

24. Dimensional Tuck Knitting

Dimensional Tuck Knitting Book by Tracy Purtscher, Published by Sixth&Spring Books

Dimensional Tuck Knitting Book by Tracy Purtscher, Published by Sixth&Spring Books

Imagine if you were able to pin-tuck a piece of knitting in the same general sort of way you can create pintucks and pleats on fabric. Does that sound crazy? Well, guess what — you can do just that!


Prepare to have your mind blown when you see how this is done!


This is quite simply an amazing knitting book.


If you enjoy highly textured knitting projects, you are going to LOVE this. The texture can sometimes resemble cables in a way, but it also looks like its own unique thing.


Dimensional Tuck Knitting is a technique book, project book and stitch dictionary, all rolled into one volume. The projects are all ultra-cool and extremely sophisticated. The short version of my book review of this title: Buy the book. It is more than worth its asking price.


Learn More About This Book:

25. Arne & Carlos Favorite Designs

Arne & Carlos Favorites, published by Trafalgar Square Books. This book features Scandinavian style knitting and crochet patterns for Christmas ornaments, Easter eggs, dolls, doll clothes, adult clothing and accessories and more. Click the photo to shop for this book on Amazon.

Arne & Carlos Favorites, published by Trafalgar Square Books. This book features Scandinavian style knitting and crochet patterns for Christmas ornaments, Easter eggs, dolls, doll clothes, adult clothing and accessories and more. Click the photo to shop for this book on Amazon.


If you’re in search of knitting patterns you can use for making gifts for your loved ones, definitely check this book out. The book is heavy on patterns for small, gift-worthy items like embroidered slippers and unique dolls. You’ll also find patterns for stunning wearables like sweaters, mittens, a hat and a scarf.

One of the highlights of the book is the excellent selection of knitting patterns for ball-shaped Christmas ornaments adorned with fun Scandinavan design motifs — heart motifs, angels, squirrels, pigs and many others.


Most of the patterns in the book are for knitters, but there are a couple of spectacular crocheted blankets and a few other crochet projects you’ll probably want to make. There are also a few really cool embroidery projects too.


Learn More About This Book:

26. Japanese Knitting Stitch Bible

Japanese Knitting Stitch Bible by Hitomi Shida, Published by Tuttle Publishing

Japanese Knitting Stitch Bible by Hitomi Shida, Published by Tuttle Publishing


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.

Learn More About This Book:

27. The Alterknit Stitch Dictionary

Alterknit Knitting Stitch Dictionary Published by Interweave Press

Alterknit Knitting Stitch Dictionary Published by Interweave Press


You’ve probably never seen anything like this quirky knitting stitch dictionary. It has some of the usual sorts of patterns you’d expect — Greek key patterns, botanicals, geometrics. Then it has some weirdo, offbeat designs like pooping pigs, raccoons raiding the garbage can and a grim reaper, complete with a birthday cake. (You can see some pictures of the stitch patterns in this interview with Andrea Rangel, the author of the book.)


This isn’t just a knitting stitch dictionary; it’s also an instruction manual on how to do stranded colorwork knitting. All the stitches in the book are knitted using this technique.


The book also includes patterns for finished projects including sweaters, mittens and more.


So if you’re bored with the same-old-same-old knitting stitch patterns, and you want to either make finished projects or design your own knitting patterns, give this book a try. Perhaps you’ll find that it offers you a refreshing change of pace.


Learn More About This Book:

28. The Cable Knitter’s Guide: 50 Patterns, 25 Projects, Countless Tips and Ideas

The Cable Knitter's Guide: 50 Patterns, 25 Projects, Countless Tips and Ideas by Denise Samson, Published by Trafalgar Square Books

The Cable Knitter’s Guide: 50 Patterns, 25 Projects, Countless Tips and Ideas by Denise Samson, Published by Trafalgar Square Books

If you’re interested in aran knitting or learning how to knit cables, this is the book for you. It’s part knitting stitch dictionary, part knitting technique book and part knitting pattern book. The book’s longer-than-average length and exceptional patterns make it an excellent buy, offering you high value in exchange for the money you spend. The book includes patterns for intricate throws, interesting cabled socks, classic sweaters, and much more.


One of the best things about the book: The author has created instructional videos teaching you how to knit each cable. There are QR codes printed right in the book that you can scan with your mobile phone. Scanning the QR codes will take you right to each video online. It’s a convenient way to see a demonstration of each pattern.


Learn More About This Book:

29. Vogue Knitting Shawls and Wraps 2 by the Editors of Vogue Knitting Magazine

Learn How to Knit a Variety of Stunning Shawls and Wraps Using the Patterns in Vogue Knitting Shawls and Wraps 2 by the Editors of Vogue Knitting Magazine. This Delightful Pattern Book Is Published by Sixth & Spring Books.

Learn How to Knit a Variety of Stunning Shawls and Wraps Using the Patterns in Vogue Knitting Shawls and Wraps 2 by the Editors of Vogue Knitting Magazine. This Delightful Pattern Book Is Published by Sixth & Spring Books.


Do you appreciate sophisticated shawls that pair well with eveningwear, career wear and casual wear? Would you enjoy owning a whole collection of chic shawl knitting patterns? Would you be interested in trying bunches of interesting knitting techniques like double knitting, lace knitting, cable knitting, drop stitch knitting, chevrons, waves and bargello knitting? If you answered “yes” to one or more of these questions, this book is one you definitely need to take a look at.

The patterns in this book were all vetted by the editors at Vogue Knitting magazine. The pattern collection is diverse, offering you bunches of different style aesthetics and bunches of different ways to move your knitting skills forward. Whether it’s a stylish new wrap you want or a mesmerizing new knitting challenge to captivate you, this book delivers appropriate inspiration in a thorougly enjoyable format.


Learn More About This Book:

30. Knit Yourself In: Inventive Patterns to Tell Your Story in the Danish “Hen Knitting” Tradition:

Knit Yourself In, a Knitting Pattern Book Published by Trafalgar Square Books

Knit Yourself In, a Knitting Pattern Book Published by Trafalgar Square Books


If you’ve ever wished you could design your own colorful knitted sweaters or other knitting projects, this is a book you’re definitely going to want to consider owning. The book is a knitter’s dream resource for learning how to put together different knitted motifs and colorways to create personalized, one-of-a-kind knitwear projects. The authors of the book have given you complete knitting patterns for sweaters, socks, mittens, pillows, a scarf and a hat. These designs can be knitted as-is, although the book’s authors encourage you to use these designs as a jumping-off point for putting together completed designs that are more customized to your own tastes. Their patterns give you the framework for getting started on your own knitwear design adventures.

It’s super easy to be creative when you’re given the right resources plus a great big push in the right direction — and if you’re already inclined to want to try your own designs, this book is likely to give you exactly the empowerment you need. The book makes it easy for you to play around with colors, shapes, motifs and ideas. If you’d like to express yourself through the medium of knitwear, the information in this book is definitely going to be of interest to you.


Learn More About This Book:

31. Jorid Linvik’s Big Book of Knitted Socks

Jorid Linvik's Big Book of Knitted Socks, published by Trafalgar Square Books

Jorid Linvik’s Big Book of Knitted Socks, published by Trafalgar Square Books


This book is an amazing collection of sock knitting patterns. You’ll find patterns to use for knitting socks for everyone you love. It can be extremely difficult to find clothes for premature babies — and this book includes a sock pattern for preemies, complete with 3 cute little variations that will each look different when you knit them. Then there’s a tiny, easy, beginner-level sock pattern that’s sized to fit babies. There are also sock patterns suitable for children and adults of both genders.

Learn More About Jorid Linvik’s Big Book of Knitted Socks:

32. Jorid Linvik’s Big Book of Knitted Mittens

Jorid Linvik's Big Book of Knitted Mittens: 45 Distinctive Scandinavian Knitting Patterns

Jorid Linvik's Big Book of Knitted Mittens: 45 Distinctive Scandinavian Knitting Patterns


If you want to knit some mittens for yourself and everyone you know, this is the book for you. Mittens are the exclusive focus of this spectacular hardcover knitting pattern book. In this book, you’ll find lovely mitten knitting patterns for just about every personality type.


Learn More About This Book:

33. The Field Guide to Knitted Birds by Arne & Carlos

Field Guide to Knitted Birds by Arne & Carlos, Published by Trafalgar Square Books.

Field Guide to Knitted Birds by Arne & Carlos, Published by Trafalgar Square Books.


If you’re looking for a knitting book that’s fresh, witty, humorous and fun in addition to offering you fantastic knitting patterns, consider buying The Field Guide to Knitted Birds by Arne & Carlos. The birds are really useful projects; they’ll help you use up all the bits and scraps of yarn, embroidery floss, feathers, beads and sequins you might happen to have hanging around. Not only that, you’ll end up with cute projects that make excellent gifts and decorations — perhaps Christmas tree ornaments or perhaps items to dangle from a mobile.

Learn More About The Field Guide to Knitted Birds:

34. Japanese Knitting Book by Michiyo

Japanese Knitting: A Book of 23 Japanese Knitting and Crochet Patterns by Michiyo

Japanese Knitting: A Book of 23 Japanese Knitting and Crochet Patterns by Michiyo


If you’d be interested in knitting and crocheting a bunch of intriguing garments and accessories, Japanese Knitting by Michiyo is worth taking a look at. This book includes patterns for women’s clothing designs that are both versatile and 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 also feel confident in recommending the book to crochet enthusiasts. Overall, it’s a really wonderful book.


Learn More About Japanese Knitting by Michiyo

35. Slow Fashion Made Fast

Slow Fashion Made Fast by Alexandra Tavel, published by Leisure Arts

Slow Fashion Made Fast by Alexandra Tavel, published by Leisure Arts

Knitting is notorious for being a slooooow process. But sometimes you can speed it up substantially if you use chunky yarns and large knitting needles. That’s the premise behind this stylish new knitting book; you use big, hefty yarns to create the 12 on-trend patterns included in this book. The book includes patterns for knitting wearable accessories and home decor items — a lovely mix of designs to use for yourself, your home and to give as gifts to others.

Learn More About This Book

36. The Beginner’s Guide to Mosaic Knitting

The Beginner's Guide to Mosaic Knitting by Melissa Leapman, published by Leisure Arts

The Beginner’s Guide to Mosaic Knitting by Melissa Leapman, published by Leisure Arts


Mosaic knitting is a clever colorwork knitting technique in which you only have to use one color per row. With this technique, you can create intricate, impressive multicolored projects that are much easier than they appear to be. If you haven’t learned this technique yet, you simply must try it! I think you’ll LOVE it!


If you’d like to give this technique a try, you’ll definitely want to check out Melissa Leapman’s new book called The Beginner’s Guide to Mosaic Knitting. This book gives you tutorials and instructions for how to do mosaic knitting, plus 8 stunning projects to work on. There are patterns for mosaic knitting a cuddly baby blanket, an eye-catching sampler blanket, a hat, a headband, 2 shawls and wraps, and a pullover sweater.

Learn More About The Beginner’s Guide to Mosaic Knitting

These are just a few of the knitting books we’ve reviewed here at Knittingcrochetcrafts.com. We’re always in search of fantastic new knitting books, and we’re updating this page frequently with new reviews. Please be sure to subscribe to our knitting and crochet newsletter if you want to be alerted about even more fantastic knitting books as they become available.

More Ways to Find Excellent Knitting Books

This list is getting really long and hard to navigate, so I’ve been working on adding a few other topic-specific book lists to this site. These links will take you to the relevant pages:

Knitting Books and Other Craft Books Sorted by Publisher:

Related Resources

Knitting Tools and Supplies

Posted 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 10-2-2024.