Among topics covered are gauge, wool selection (including techniques for washing and felting wool), casting on, plait edging, ribbed and unribbed cuffs, and a long section on the ever-elusive thumb. Also detailed are techniques for hand-knit mitten cords, finishing, and sizing.

    "I like how the author builds quite high expectations in the introduction of the book, and manages to fulfill them fully throughout the book.""I am amazed at his ability to focus on teaching people, like me, who have done basically nothing with cameras other than point and shoot. There is a wealth of useful and understandable information in this book,...""I've been photographing for years since first SLR in 1960s and yet I found much of interest and some I was unfamiliar with. I especially appreciated the clear, concise presentation."" Even us 'know-it-alls' are surprised by the information that cleared-up some uncertain items that had existed too long.""As a former photography student who learned almost nothing over a two year period, I can now say that I fully understand the terminology and possess the technical skill to take better photographs and possibly revisit my dream of becoming a sports photographer." Whether You are New to Photography,making the transition from Film to Digital Photography, or just want to improve your skills, this book will save you TIME and MONEY! No more intimidation! If you understand how Digital Cameras work, every photo becomes a learning experience. Many people are walking around with expensive cameras that they barely know how to use and others are missing great photo opportunities because they have been misinformed by well-meaning friends. This book is based on the premise that a solid understanding of photographic equipment results in a faster learning curve and better photos. The technology is actually quite simple when it is broken down and clearly explained.Without an understanding of cameras, you are at the mercy of others in all your buying decisions. You will only scratch the surface of your camera's capabilities until you take on its manual settings. You need to read this book because: It will take the confusion out of Photographic terminology by clearly defining every important term used. Your learning will be enhanced by 120 charts and photos that will simplify discussions and help you to remember what you learned. You will learn why buying a camera based on Megapixels alone is a bad idea. You will learn how sensor size and lens selection affect image quality more than any other factors. Strange photographic terms will loose their mystique once you learn how they were carried over from film photography. ˃˃˃ You will also learn: How digital images are created and stored.Which file format to use when editing photos.Which file format to use when sharing photos.How to select a lens for your DSLR camera.How to properly adjust exposure.Why a zoom lens can be a very good investment.Why you should care about focal length, aperture, shutter speed, and ISO as well as what these terms mean. ˃˃˃ About the author: Al Judge is a professional photographer living in Sedona, Arizona. His works are displayed in several locations around town. He is a best selling author with more than a dozen photography books. Don’t waste any more time! Scroll up and grab a copy today for little more than the cost of a cup of coffee!

    You’ll sympathize with owners of lush “problem skeins” that are impossible to knit. You’ll encounter the mysteries of never-matching baby booties–and the adventures of one suspicious knitter who’s convinced that a fellow knitting blogger is really a celebrity author in disguise. For those who approach this art from a more spiritual perspective, there are the stories that remind us of the power of a simple stitch. From the mother whose project provides comfort during her troubled pregnancy to a woman compelled to make dozens of blankets for Afghan refugees, each knitted and purled row offers the potential to heal ourselves.And so we spin on. KnitLit the Third is the latest in a pattern of poignant, hilarious, bittersweet, and inspiring yarns—created by and for lovers of the craft.From the Trade Paperback edition.

    This lively, comprehensive book for the growing population of contemporary knitters is an invaluable guide to fiber quality, texture, color, and pattern resources. It provides a complete global overview, from the politics of knitting as economic opportunity in undeveloped areas to the communal pleasures of Internet knitting circles to the inspiring beauty of ethnic motif in mittens, scarves, socks, and other items. Lisa Myers profiles influential designers, celebrates the joys of knitting in solitude and the tactile pleaures of yarn, and provides patterns for projects including a Log Cabin Pillow, an "intellectually challenging" three-dimensional hat, a Mobius scarf, and even a Palm Pilot cover. Lisa Myers holds a Ph.D. in English literature and is the proprietor of Sophie's Yarns in Philadelphia.

    Since the first of what would be a series of profound realizations gained from knitting (You mean there are only two stitches involved?), Nargi has not been able to put her needles down, and in this book she seeks to discover exactly what it is about the practice of knitting that draws people in and keeps them returning, day after day, to their yarn. The people Nargi encountered as she followed a path through interconnected circles of knitters from all across the country describe how knitting-as profoundly simple as it is profoundly not simple-encourages a more peaceful and productive existence. In Knitting Lessons, aficionados will delight in hearing the inspiring, enlightening, and sometimes just plain funny reasons why people knit, as told by knitters all across the country.

    The method is simple and magical — knit the project large and loose, wash it in hot water, and see it transformed into a soft and cozy garment or accessory. Kathleen Taylor encourages you to explore the possibilities of felted knitting with 25 spectacular projects that include mittens, slippers, hats, bags, stuffed animals, and more. Embellish your life with unique and stylishly comfortable creations.

    Use them to make up your own bags, throws, scarves, and cushions, designed just as you choose, or follow one of Melody’s foolproof projects—included are a butterfly brooch, holly greetings cards, an openwork afghan, cat pillow, button baby blanket, tie belt, and a cherry border cardigan, so there’s something for everyone to make and give. Each motif is displayed as a color photograph next to easy-to-follow instructions, with stitch diagrams for more complex motifs. The instructions are also written out in full so you can choose the way you prefer to work. Melody also advises on the type of yarn to use, the tension and the size of the motif, and gives tips on how to achieve the best result. There are also sketches and photos showing how the motif can be used, either on its own, with several together, or partnered with other motifs. Once you start, you will realize that the possibilities are endless.

    For the social knitter who likes to have one drink (or a few!), there are a variety of portable projects such as drink cozies and soft scarves that feature simple-to-follow patterns, plus tips and tricks for fixing mistakes should you have a bit too much while knitting. The pocket-size and quick-to-knit projects are perfect for the knitter on the go.

    The designs emanate from an extraordinary mind, ... but the author has written out detailed and comprehensive instructions for the rest of us. Some designs include: Form knitting, Scribble Lace, Swirl, Sculptural, Virtual, Cellular Automaton and Labyrinth knitting.

    With instructions for twelve different characters and enough materials for two complete projects -- Yoda and a stormtrooper -- your crochet collection can also soon include Luke Skywalker, Darth Vader, Princess Leia, Jabba the Hutt, and many other favorites.    Use the force of crafting to create this amazing cast of characters with Star Wars Crochet.

    Helps knitters make customized socks with only two measurements.

    At last! A leather working book for amateurs by a top professional.Valerie Michael guides the leatherworker through techniques and projects, showcasing the very best of her knowledge and experience.After a thorough presentation of each of the key techniques - such as finishing edges, paring and hand stitching, making pockets, attaching studs and straps and decorating surfaces - there are ten projects, suitable for developing levels of skill, from belts and wallets to quilted work and three different types of leather bag.Not only is this book an ideal introduction to a centuries-old craft, but its comprehensive treatment of materials, tools and techniques makes it an invaluable work of reference.

    With over 30 crochet patterns on the menu, there's something here to please every palette. In addition to snack items that can be stitched up in a flash, you'll find: patterns to plan a meal for breakfast, lunch, dinner and even dessert; basic crochet techniques to get you started right away; and short "ingredients" lists to make finishing an item quick and easy. Whether they're play food for the kids or fun projects for you, you'll love increasing your daily fiber intake with Tasty Crochet!

    The twenty-five simple sewing projects in this book offer home accessories made from linen, wool, and cotton, from durable linen aprons to cozy wool blankets and washable cotton lunch bags. This book is full of beautiful photographs, clear step-by-step instruction, and detailed diagrams that are reflective of the Japanese craft style. All of the projects are perfect for those new to sewing, yet the unsophisticated charm and useful nature of each item will appeal to every sewer. Make the projects in this book and add a little bit of comfort and style to your home.Projects include:   • Linen: Sarong Apron, Handkerchief, Slouch Bag, Hand Towel, Wastebasket Cover, Duvet Cover, Pillow Case, Kitchen Cloth, Fruit Bag, Apron    • Wool: Muffler, Socks, Room Shoes, Blanket, Bottle  Cover, Lap Blanket, Messenger’s Bag    • Cotton: Jumper, Wall Pocket, Bath Mat, Small Bag, Sweets Mat, Lingerie Case, Lunch Bag, Parent and Child’s Bag

    A rundown on equipment introduces the drop spindle, supported spindle, niddy-noddy, McMorran balance, and yarn meter, while the following sections include choosing wool and other fibers, presenting knitting patterns suitable for handspun yarn, and in-depth profiles of real urban spinners. For crafters who want to experiment with spinning but don't want to sacrifice too much of their knitting time, there are lots of ideas for jazzing up a thrift-store cardigan with handspun trim or knitting a boatneck pullover in a combination of commercial and handspun yarns. Methods for incorporating beads and threads into yarn and a technique for dyeing yarn in the dishwasher are also featured.