I recently added three new books to my fiber library that I am so excited about I just had to share.
First is the book Lithuanian Knitting: Continuing Traditions by Donna Druchunas and June L. Hall. First off, can I get a WOW just for the book itself. Beautifully bound, well photographed and high-quality printing makes this book stand out amongst knitting books in general. Now I’m a sucker for a knitting book that isn’t all just patterns. I find that often the stories shared in them are just as inspiring as the patterns. As far as I am concerned, Lithuanian Knitting sets the standard for the “Not just a knitting pattern book” genre. The writing is excellent as well as the selected patterns. I cannot suggest this book strongly enough if you are interested in the history and the continuing relevance of knitting in a country known for its knitting traditions. Get it, you won’t be disappointed.
The second book is Icelandic Handknits by Hélène Magnússon. This is another beautifully presented book with excellent photography and lovely printing and binding. There isn’t as much introduction to this book, but I love the little stories within the patterns spread throughout the book. Reading this one has made me even more excited about my very short time in Iceland in the autumn.
The final book that I have added to my library is The Book of Haps edited by Kate Davies and Jen Arnall-Culliford. I’m rather a big fan of most things Shetlandic, so when I saw that this book was coming out, I decided I really must get it. It starts with a brief history of shawls and haps and how the terminology changed throughout the years. It then moves on to patterns for various types of haps inspired by the various locations of the pattern writers. Every single pattern is beautiful in its own way. Some weave WAY off the path of what you would consider a “hap”, but all the patterns are completely wearable and totally lovely.
Sarah Jane Humke 