With special attention to the social aspects of knitting, it examines the changes in tools and techniques within different regions. Examined in detail are the history of European knitting before 1500, knitting in Britain from Henry VIII to the Commonwealth, from the Restoration to 1835, during the 19th century, and during World War I and after. Further explorations consider local traditions in the British Isles, knitting as practiced east of the Adriatic, and developments in the Americas. Absorbing reading for knitters and nonknitters alike, this book also defines knitting in relation to other yarn crafts such as crochet and nalbinding and offers a historical glossary and a transcription of the earliest known English knitting pattern. This replaces 0934026351.

    Packed with 408 pages of all-new material from the editors of Better Homes and Gardens(r) books, this complete landscaping guide has everything you need to know transform your yard.More than 700 stunning photographs and 100 complete step-by-step projects show you how to improve grading, plant successfully, build a deck, and much more.Plus an all-new plant encyclopedia with 95 plant photos! It's everything you need to know to improve your view.Step-by-step plans for patios, edging, walls, fences, water gardens, outdoor kitchens, fireplaces, garden sculpture, and more.Cost estimate, time needed to complete, skill level, and material list included with every project.Hundreds of inspiring photographs, ideas, and plans.

    In this book, you'll discover the secrets of minimalist design-how to find beauty in the basic elements of your environment. These projects deliver exciting, vivid results with solid color fabrics. City Quilts was named one of the Best Books of 2010 in the Fiber Crafts Category by Library Journal, and is a finalist in the 2010 Foreword Book of the Year Awards."

    Fortunately, Simple Soldering proves that does not need to be the case. This handy how-to guide is complete in its exploration of the craft of creating soldered metal jewelry, including tools, techniques, and 20 beautiful projects that beginners and enthusiasts can make at home.Author and teacher Kate Richbourg demystifies basic soldering for any home crafter, showing how to create sophisticated, polished, and professional-looking jewelry pieces through simple soldering techniques. First, she instructs how to set up a jewelry workspace that fits the confines of your budget and living space. Detailed step-by-step instructions walk you through the basic tools and materials you need, plus how to use them. A sample chapter gives a host of introductory exercises that teach solid skills, allowing you to test these techniques on a small scale. Finally, you'll discover 20 finished projects that include earrings, pendants, rings, bracelets, and clasps that may also include bead or wire embellishment.Kate also demonstrates how to combine and layer techniques to gorgeous effect. She also examines common mistakes, shows how to correct or adapt them, and gives advice on when it’s time to start over. Most of all, having taught thousands of classes on soldering, Kate has a "you can do it!" attitude that shines through to help even the most reluctant jewelry maker fire up the torch with ease.Paired with an instructional DVD, Kate’s expert teaching skills will help projects come alive, right in your own studio.With Simple Soldering, the art of metal working one-of-a-kind jewelry is now at your fingertips.

    You've heard celebrities--Julia Roberts and Amanda Seyfried--gush about it. You know that it's fun and incredibly addictive. What is it? Knitting, of course! Have you ever wanted to learn how to knit? Knitting for beginners can seem intimidating at first, but with the right free beginner knitting patterns, anyone can learn how to knit. We know there are a lot of articles out there showing you the right way to get started knitting. For your convenience, we've put together a group of simple tutorials and free knitting patterns for beginners to make your learning experience less stressful. With our free eBook, How to Knit for Beginners: 9 Free Tutorials, you'll find tons of great patterns, tips, and step-by-step instructions that will make picking up knitting a breeze. Knitting for beginners doesn't have to be complicated, especially when you have the right tutorials at your disposal! With just a little time and practice, you’ll be knitting like a pro in no time at all--there’s really nothing to fear. Are you still a little nervous about trying to knit? Let's break it down a little. Did you know that there are only two stitches you need to know: the knit stitch and the purl stitch? All the other special stitches are created from variations of those two stitches. Isn’t that great news? Once you know how to knit and how to purl, you just need to practice with a few easy beginner knitting projects until the motion becomes natural.