Japanese Knitting Stitches from Tokyo's Kazekobo Studio

Book excerpt: This exciting new Japanese stitch dictionary is from popular designer Yoko Hatta--the founder and driving force behind the Kazekobo Studio. Though this is her first book in English, her work already has an extensive following in Western countries--more than 1,000 of her designs can be seen on Ravelry.com. Hatta is one of several Japanese knitters whose patterns and designs have sparked an explosion of interest in Japanese knitting techniques and aesthetics around the world. Her work in knitwear design spans more than thirty years, and knitters love her modern-yet-timeless, fun-yet-classy styles. This book presents her 200 favorite Kazekobo stitch patterns--a delightful selection of multipurpose knit-and-purl, lace, cable, Aran and rib & twist stitches in solids and motifs. Sample projects give knitters a chance to practice Hatta's techniques. These include: Mini mufflers using knit-and-purl stitches A cozy scallop-edged scarf using lace stitches A beautifully textured pair of mittens using cable and Aran stitches A stylish and sturdy pair of two-tone socks using rib and twist stitches Experienced knitters will find a wealth of unique patterns just waiting to be brought to life. A guide to the basic symbols shows how to knit the stitches, step-by-step. Originally published in Japanese by Nihon Vogue, whose books have brought the designs of artists such as Hitomi Shida, Keiko Okamoto and others to knitters around the world, this book will be a much-anticipated addition to every knitter's library.