Synopses & Reviews
A fractal is a complex geometric figure made up of patterns that repeat themselves at smaller and smaller, or larger and larger, scales. In nature, they're found in fern leafs and corals. In this book, they're found in the pattern for a scarf, the cables of a pullover, and the intricate hemline of a skirt. The pentagon is a familiar five-sided figure that, in nature, can be spotted in the starfish or sand dollar; in this book it's spotted in the yoke of a pullover, the textures of a cardigan, and the shape of a shawl. In nature, water waves and chemical waves abound; in this book, they flow as the patterns in a hat and mittens and in the gores of a skirt.
Knitting Nature is a singular book created by one of the most innovative and respected designers working today. Norah Gaughan, who got her degree from Brown in both biology and art, has combined her knowledge to compile this book of 39 fabulous designs inspired by patterns in nature. With each design, Gaughan first explains where in nature the pattern can be found, such as the spiral in a ram's horn or seashell; then with step-by-step instructions she shows how she rendered that pattern in a skirt or tunic or coat. Complete with exquisitely beautiful photographs, this sophisticated book is truly one of a kind.
Synopsis
Written by Norah Gaughan, one of the most innovative and respected knitwear designers working today,
Knitting Nature was an instant classic when it was released in hardcover in 2006, and it is now available at a must-have paperback price.
In Knitting Nature, Gaughan blends together the natural and artistic world with 39 stunning, fun-to-knit designs for women, men, and children. Among them are a skirt patterned after the hexagonal scales nature has used to cover a domed turtleand#8217;s shell, a jacket whose collar grows in a spiraland#8212;much the same way a ramand#8217;s horn doesand#8212;and a tank top with leaves that grow the same way they do on a stem.
Synopsis
For many of us, afghans are the epitome of comfort. Colorful and inviting, they are a staple of the home, without which a living room or bedroom just wouldnand#8217;t feel complete. And whether youand#8217;re making one for yourself, as a housewarming gift, or to welcome a new baby into the world, the process of creating a handmade afghan can be as rewarding as the finished product.
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Comfort Knitting and Crochet: Afghans features 50 patterns for these cozy blankets, made with Berroco Comfort yarnand#151;an affordable, ultra-soft acrylic/nylon blendand#151;and designed by the Berroco team, headed by Norah Gaughan. The book includes something for everyone: The designs range from ultra-modern to traditional, from spare to embellished,and#160;and are inspired by sourcesand#160;as varied as Scottish tweeds, Japanese Ikat, and Delft pottery. Intended for knitters and crocheters of every skill level, this collection brings new life to the well-loved and versatile afghan.
About the Author
Berrocoand#160;began as Stanley Woolen Mills in 1810 and has gradually evolved into one of the largest importers and wholesalers of yarns, patterns, and supplies to independent yarn shops throughout the U.S. and Canada. Norah Gaughan, author of STCand#8217;s Knitting Nature, joined Berroco as design director after freelancing for most of theand#160;major yarn companies and knitting magazines in the industry.Margery Winter was creative director at Berroco for 12 years, and has been editor-in-chief of Vogue Knitting and Family Circle Knitting, as well as the fashion editor of McCall's Needlework and Crafts.