The Knitter's Dictionary: Knitting Know-How from A to Z

by Kate Atherley

From "alt" to "yrn," knitting patterns have a unique language of abbreviations and knitting techniques. The Knitter's Dictionary is your comprehensive resource to understanding the language of knitting in a quick-reference guide that no knitting bag should be without. For beginner and skilled knitters alike, there's always something new to discover in your next hand knit project. The Knitter's Dictionary puts an expert knitting instructor in the palm of your hands to help you navigate any pattern.    
 
Within this knitting bag necessity you'll also

   • Over 150 illustrations showing you everything from the difference between a toque and a beret to how-to information on increase and decrease stitches.
   • Handy cross references quickly lead you to exactly the information you need whether you've come across a new abbreviation in a knitting pattern or you've forgotten the steps to a long-tail cast on.
   • Extended information on more challenging topics like taking measurements, understanding gauge, and fiber care instructions make this more than a dictionary--it's important information no knitter should be without.
   • Packed with bonus tips and tricks, learn the do's and don'ts of pattern knitting making patterns easier and more enjoyable to knit!
  The Knitter's Dictionary gives knitters the answers they need when and where they need them in a precise and helpful way. Give yourself or another knitter the gift of knowledge with this must-have resource.

Genres: Knitting, Nonfiction, Crafts, Reference

126 pages, Hardcover

First published September 6, 2018

Reviews

[ReadAlongWithSue recovering from a stroke★⋆. ࿐࿔ · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a really good knitting book that has some great knitting tips. It’s good for beginners as well as experienced knitters.

I’ve never been one to make up my own patterns so this is a must for any knitter.

It has sizing, examples of gauge so that your garment will come out the way you expect it.

Talks of types of wools, sizing needles.
And of course has patterns.
It was a delight to read

The author is well known with her expertise in knitting and the advice and information is second to none.

This is a book that you will keep returning to.

Because this is set out like a dictionary it will aide as a reference book for us knitters. So the pages are going to be well thumbed through I think.

It’s set out in such simple terms to understand which I love. Easy instructions are another thing I love about this A-Z knitters dictionary.

[Katie B · Rating 4 out of 5]

The author is very upfront with stating that the goal of her book is to teach you how to read a pattern rather than a tutorial on how to knit. (The author does give recommendations for some books that specialize in learning how to knit and of course there are plenty of free online videos to watch if you want to learn.) Being able to understand how to read patterns in my opinion is equally important as knowing how to move your hands with needles and yarn. This book at around 125 pages is very thorough in explaining the different words and abbreviations that might pop up in patterns. There are some illustrations throughout and explanations of the different types of yarn that are sold. The book itself is on the smaller side which makes it a perfect size to fit into most craft bags so you can refer back to it when needed.

Definitely recommend as a book that will be useful to both beginner knitters and those who are a little more experienced with the craft.

Thank you to BookishFirst and the publisher for sending me an advance copy! I was under no obligation to post a review here and all views expressed are my honest opinion.

[Pauline · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Knitters Dictionary by Kate Atherley was an excellent book for beginners and experienced knitters. Packed full of good advice on equipment, yarns, patterns and more. A perfect book if you need advice on any pattern instructions.
Thank you to NetGalley and F + W Media for my e-copy in exchange for an honest review.

[Susan Atherly · Rating 5 out of 5]

This an excellent resource for knitters both beginning and experienced. The definitions are clear, easy to read, and accessible.

I highly recommend it and it has nothing to do with sharing the author's last name (which is a novelty - there aren't many of us.)

[Faith · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is not a replacement for the huge knitting bibles, but it is an excellent quick reference. Information is presented very concisely. The definitions include all of the abbreviations commonly found in knitting instructions as well as definitions of other knitting terms and techniques. It also has instructions for some of the techniques, such as joining in the round, making various decreases and increases and swatching. There are clear, hand drawn illustrations throughout the book. Some information is presented in chart form, for example yarn attributes, fiber care instructions and blocking methods. There are a few handy knitting tips sprinkled in too.

I received a free copy of this book from the publisher. However, my PDF copy will be deleted in a few days, so I am going to have to buy a copy to keep.

[Patty Smith · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to Netgalley, Interweave, and Kate Atherley for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review. My opinions are 100% my own and independent of receiving an advanced copy.

Kate Atherley is well known in the knitter world. She has written several books and published lots of patterns, many of them found on Knitty, where she is the managing technical editor. As a mathematician, her patterns have lots of detail and are very well written.

This is a small but comprehensive book to help knitters understand patterns. If you find the language of patterns difficult, this would be a helpful reference. Some knitters love to design their own patterns, making it up as they go along. I, unfortunately, am not that kind of knitter. I have always relied on patterns. I was lucky that I never had a hard time understanding them. They always, sort of, made sense to me. Even the trickiest patterns I could decipher. For me, I didn’t find this collection outstanding. I think the you can find this information in other places. However, it is nice to have it one collection, for ease of use and reference for future projects. It is well written with lots of good tips.

A bit of a take it or leave it to me. If you think this would be useful for you, then I recommend. If it isn’t much of an issue for you, or you have other reference books (or don’t mind looking things up on the internet), I would pass on this one.

[Carmen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a copy from F + W Media through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

I’m an avid knitter and I always keep an eye out for knitting books and videos so that I can recommend them to any friends who want to pick up knitting or are otherwise new to the craft. I also find it good to own some of these books myself for when I have a question or need to jog my memory on a stitch or something in that realm. One thing that I really like about this book is that it has information about what to look for in a yarn based on the type of project one is buying yarn for. It’s not something that I see often and it has some really good information on this topic, which is also extremely useful for people new to knitting.

The book has a nice layout that makes it easy to find what one may be looking for. It has a combination of written terms and graphs depending on the subject. It has a lot of useful information for new and old knitters alike. The only thing that I found it lacking was information on plant fibers and acrylic, especially since many people frequently use one or both. It’s not a problem for me, but it might be for someone who is interested in having that information all in one book. That said, I rather like this book and will definitely add it to the list of useful books that I recommend to others.

[Literary Redhead · Rating 5 out of 5]

“The Knitter's Dictionary” by Kate Atherley is like having an expert knitting instructor in the palm of your hands to help you navigate any pattern.    

With more than 150 illustrations that show you everything from the difference between a toque and a beret — to how-to information on increase and decrease stitches — this handy cross-referenced guide quickly leads you to the exact info you need. Filled with bonus tips and tricks, it also offers extended details on more challenging topics like taking measurements, understanding gauge, fiber care instructions, and much more. A great resource and gift idea for yourself and all the knitters in your life who threaten to make you a sweater or scarf for your birthday. With this wonderful handbook, they’ll be sure to create something you’ll proudly wear! 5/5

Pub Date 30 Oct 2018

Thanks to F+W Media and NetGalley for the review copy. Opinions are fully mine.

#TheKnittersDictionary #NetGalley

[Leigh Kramer · Rating 5 out of 5]

My childhood best friend's mom taught us to knit when I was in 3rd grade but I didn't remember much past that year and I've often been jealous of knitting friends. The last few winters I've thought about learning to knit again but haven't followed through. This winter, though, I'm determined to do it. When I won a copy, it seemed like a sign!

This is a thorough resource and I definitely feel more empowered to knit. There were so many terms I'd never heard of before. It's easy to understand and well organized. Atherley did a great job putting it together. I'll need more than this to get started on my first project but I have no doubt I'l be referring to it often once I become a true knitter.

Disclosure: I received an advanced copy from Bookish First in exchange for an honest review.

[Carole · Rating 5 out of 5]

As author Kate Atherley states, this book is between a dictionary and an encyclopedia for knitters. Before the A to Z portion, there are informative explanations of tools, measurement, size, gauge, yarn and yarn substitution as well as a guide to understanding yarn labels. If a pattern is not understood by a knitter, projects can be slow or abandoned. So, from alpaca to Z-twist, you will find definitions, examples and techniques for hundreds of knitting terms. This is an essential and easy-to-use guide for all knitters to use and enjoy. Thank you to Interweave Books, F+ W Media and NetGalley for an e-arc in exchange for an honest review.

[Ren · Rating 4 out of 5]

I've had my hands on quite a few knitting dictionaries and reference books over the years. Some are definitely better than others and it can be difficult to stand out on a crowded shelf in a bookstore or online. I've had great results from using Interweave books in the past, so I expected something great here. The layout of this book is very usable. Information is easy to locate, entries are clearly explained. There are a number of illustrations as well for clarity - sometimes you just need a visual! There are nice illustrations of the various collar shapes as well as sweater body shapes. In addition, we get helpful tips throughout. For example, near the "circ, cir, circular needle" entry, we're offered tips on choosing the length of circular needles for our project.

One thing that I think did fall a bit short was in the yarn recommendation table. Atherley suggests animal fibers (wool, silk, other animal fibers) for the majority of the project types she lists. As someone who uses plant fibers almost exclusively these days, I can tell you that cotton and linen both can work quite well for lace and cables! Swatch and see if you like the results before skipping the plant fibers!

Even those of us who have been knitting for years (or decades!) need a good reference for those techniques and terminology we don't often see. I'd happily add this book to my own small shelf of knitting reference books!

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher, Interweave, for the opportunity to read and review this great reference book! All comments are my own, unbiased opinion.

[Melissa Dee · Rating 4 out of 5]

Its hard to imagine Kate Atherley being ignorant of *anything* having to do with knitting or yarns, but she claims in her introduction that she learned to knit from a grandmother, and had to learn to read patterns later. I think “The Knitter’s Dictionary” is ideal for the knitter, beginner or experienced, who has mastered a set of usable techniques, but wants to have a quick reference guide to alternatives that don’t necessarily come to mind immediately. A true, (if slightly embarrassing) example for me is the Kitchener Stitch. I’ve used it in untold numbers of socks, but I always need a quick reminder of how to get it started (purl or knit on the front or back???). The Dictionary provides a quick answer in an easy to reference form.

Atherley gives clear and well-illustrated directions for a variety of cast-ons, increases, decreases, cable patterns, etc. I wouldn’t necessarily want to learn the Brioche stitch from her terse description, but once learned, the description serves as an excellent reminder.

[Rachel Quinn · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you've ever thought about learning to knit, this looks like the right book for you!

I have always wanted to learn how to knit. I even have a bag full of yarn and knitting needles. However, knitting feels like it has it's own special language with all of the abbreviations and acronyms. This book breaks down that barrier and explains the basics and secrets to being a successful knitter. Each type of knit is broken down into easy to understand basics and history. Then it tells you when you would best use this stitch. Finally it both tells and shows you with detailed illustrations how to complete the stitch.

This book is the perfect gift for any of your friends or family that love to craft.

Thanks to FW Media, Interweave and NetGalley for the review copy. Opinions are fully mine!

#TheKnittersDictionary #NetGalley

[Carissa · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a 5.6 x 0.6 x 7.6 inches book thats a perfect size to fit in your knitting bag. The title gives way to what this book is.... a dictionary. From A to Z, it lists everything in regards to knitting. Its a quick way to look up a term you're not familiar with. There are quite a few diagrams showing how to do certain things as well and as well as helpful tips.

In terms of learning how to read a pattern, I'm planning to look at Kate's "Beginners Guide to Writing Knitting Patterns" book, which I'm sure theres a bigger breakdown of it. There are also reference books she recommends for different topics in case the reader/knitter might also be interested in like general knitting, yarn, knitting methods etc.

[Betti · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fabulous resource for the novice and experienced knitter. Arranged in an alphabetical way, makes it easy to find the information you are looking for. With plenty of diagrams as well as easy to understand explanations, this is the book that should be in every knitter's library.
I appreciate the ability to look up ways to complete my project that I had never used before. Information regarding patterns and how to know what you need is invaluable, especially if you are working with an expensive yarn. Extra references should you need more information are suggested at the end of the book. As a long time knitter, I still need a knitter' dictionary at times!
I won a copy of this wonderful resource from BookishFirst. All opinions are my own.

[K.S. Lewis · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is one of those books that you're going to want to have on hand whether you're a knitting veteran or a knitting newbie. Everything that is included in this book is useful for those who are interested in learning how to knit, those that have been knitting but maybe want to brush up on their knowledge of the lingo, and those that are in between (you've been knitting for a little while, but your head cocks to the side when you hear an unfamiliar term and you rely on context to pull you through to the meaning of it). This firm hardback of a dictionary is a valuable asset to any knitter's army and will aid you in your time of need or if you want to sit back, relax, and just learn about the lingo that's out there in the knitting world.

[Biljana · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an excellent dictionary/encyclopedia of knitting terms and techniques. It covers the simplest techniques (yarnovers, knit, purl) and more advanced techniques (Kitchener stitch, mattress stitch). Many of the definitions are accompanied by illustrations, which should be very useful.

My only criticism would be that this dictionary covers acronyms that are obvious (approx = approximate) in some cases, but then treats other terms (ayo = afterthought yarnover) in the same manner, without any additional information. (To be fair, I looked up afterthought yarnover and it looks somewhat involved, but it might have been useful to include a bit of information about what this type of yarnover would be used for, even if a how-to would not be possible.)

Overall, though, this seems to be a very handy dictionary and I think that it would be appreciated by most new or longterm knitters.

Thanks to the author, the publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advance copy.

[Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a wonderful modern take on a knitting dictionary and more!
This guide compiles all the knitting language and pattern abbreviations you have ever wondered about along with helpful tips and tricks along the way.
Each entry is written in a clear manner. Atherley covers everything from knitting abbreviations like C4B to the different types of sweater silhouettes in an organized A-Z fashion for easy referral.
A great resource and a must have for knitting beginners and beyond!

Thank you to Net Galley and F=W Media for the advance copy!

[Kelly (purplebookstand) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoy knitting...I’m just not that good at it!! I can knit a mean scarf but when it comes to actual patterns, all the confusing terminology puts me off.
This dictionary walks you through all that terminology, explaining what it means in simple terms. I think this dictionary is going to come in very handy when I’m attempting to use a pattern. There’s always a risk with a book like this, that he layout doesn’t work as an ebook. The layout is fine and I think this will be a really useful little book to have for any avid knitter!

[Carolyn McBride · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found the PDF version of this book far more helpful than the Kindle version. The Kindle version was six ways of messed up, but the PDF was glorious by comparison! This book is part knitters dictionary and part knitting encyclopedia. I learned so much! I found the section on reading charts extremely helpful as well as the section on Magic Loop (It's always been a mystery to me). There is a great section on gauge that every knitter should know, whether they choose to ignore it or not. Also useful is the section that explains the differences between English knitting and Continental, and so on and so on.
As I said, this book is jampacked with knowledge, and written by one of the smartest and most engaging knitters this side of Elizabeth Zimmerman herself. Buy this book for yourself if you're a knitter, or for a knitter you care about.

I plan on getting a dead-tree version of this book as soon as I can. I just know it will end up being the most consulted knitting book on my shelves!
I am honored to have been trusted with an ARC copy in exchange for a review.

[Eiain · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good book that gives a lot of help with learning different stitches. Full of illustrations. This book is so full that it just isn't for beginners, but the more advanced too. Every knitter needs this book, even if it is just for jogging the memory of stitches you once learned but since forgot due to not doing them every day. If you buy one book for knitting stitches, then this should be it.

[penny shima glanz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kate Atherley has done it again. Her newest book, The Knitting Dictionary, is a comprehensive reference of all things knitting in a concise 126 pages! This is a good tool for every knitter, both those new to the language and those who have been working with it for years. New knitters will delight in the second chapter, "Getting Started with Patterns" which builds on its promise and gives tips for how to successfully work a pattern (while experienced knitters will wish for a time machine).

The heart of this book, "A-Z of Knitting", is a cross between a dictionary and an encyclopedia. It cross references skills, terms, and tools with clear definitions, over 150 illustrations, and many helpful tips.

This is a wonderful guide for that moment when a knitter is faced with doubt for working a technique, heard something at knit night and didn't want to admit ignorance, or is simply curious. I think it's also a helpful guide to hand to a knitter's partner who wants to be able to improve communication (see the term yarn barf and illustration of a ball winder, as examples).

Kate's years of experience come through in this valuable volume and the illustrations by Julie Levesque (http://symposi.com) are beautiful and work in symbiosis with the text. Together they make this a comprehensive and concise reference book.

This book holds a coveted spot in my knitting bag!

This review also appeared in issue 65 | deep fall 2018 of knitty. I received an eARC of this title from the publisher/NetGalley in exchange for a review. The FTC wants you to know.

[Katherine · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is an amazingly awesome reference for a new or experienced knitter. One of the hardest parts of knitting is reading and deciphering the pattern. With this wonderful reference, you can look up the terms alphabetically, making it easy . There are well drawn pictures that help with several stitches that can be tricky, and I love that this is a concise reference where I can easily look up terms without having to search the internet. I would highly recommend this book to anyone who is interested in knitting.

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good reference dictionary I can use when I pick up knitting again.

[Patrica Liebe · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was sent a copy of this book via NetGalley and Interweave for an honest review.
This is one reference book I would recommend for all knitters wether they be a beginner just starting out on their first project or to the very experienced knitter who needs to understand a term never seen before on a complicated pattern. This book has been written for all knitter's who love to see the pattern codes decoded and an easy to understand explanation to go with it. Kate Atherley has earned my respect with the way this book makes it a go- to -book for all knitter's. Thank you as I was stuck trying to help a new knitter trying to figure out what a term meant and feeling very inept. This book certainly aided us both and I will be certain to keep this book in mind in the future. I highly recommend this very important reference book for all who love to knit.

[Caitlin · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received this book for free from the publisher through the BookishFirst website in exchange for an honest review.

The Knitter's Dictionary by Kate Atherley is a very useful tool for knitters at any skill level to have on hand. The book lists common knitting terms, abbreviations and techniques alphabetically making it a quick reference when you stumble upon an unknown in a pattern. I would consider myself an advanced knitter, but I can certainly recall times that having this book would have been handy! And, I think it will be a nice reminder for terms or techniques I don't use that often and need to brush up on. I do feel, however, that the book could have been a little more thorough in the definitions and examples of some of the terms and techniques listed. More visuals (by which I mean figures/images) for some of the techniques would have also been useful, as it helps me when figuring out something new.

As to the design, I was pleasantly surprised to find it was a hardcover and not a paperback as I expected. The pages are laid out neatly and the text is easy to read or scan through. I was also surprised by how small it is, which is good for tucking into your knitting bag, but I don't believe it is worth a $19.99 price tag. Overall, I think it is a handy tool to have around if you're a knitter!

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kate Atherley’s newest book The Knitter’s Dictionary, is a must have for fledgling as well as seasoned knitters. Her no nonsense, easy-to-read information about everything from alpaca to wool and everything in between will keep your needles busy creating successful projects.

There are so many interesting and informative tidbits in this little book, it is difficult for me to choose my favorites, but I have finally narrowed it down. At the top of the list is the comprehensive section on gauge. I know that gauge is the part of knitting most knitters hate. Seems like a waste of time – until the garment you have spent a month making is either too small, too large, too long or way too short. Knitters know you should always swatch for gauge. Atherley goes further to explain how to correct needle size and/or yarn type depending upon how your gauge is off to ensure your finish project is perfect.

There is great advice for choosing the perfect yarn for your project. Each fiber gives feel and strength info as well as additional information to keep problems to a minimum. For example, Possum yarn (from Australia, not the United States Opossum!) is warm, soft but can be pilly. It is not a strong fiber when used alone. I can confirm that description 100%. I purchased some of this yarn and created a beautiful shawl that is warm and soft. But working with it was a challenge do to the tendency of the yarn to simply pull apart.

Lastly, I loved the section on sweaters. The illustrations are detailed and the descriptions include shaping and the actual fit of the different types of sweaters. Atherley’s detailed definitions are easy to understand and inspire knitters of all levels to push themselves a little bit further then they may have thought possible.

If you need one more nudge to get this terrific book, The Knitter’s Dictionary is the perfect size, 8 inches by 6 inches. It will easily slip into your project bag or purse. Since the holidays will soon be upon us, you just might want to purchase two; one for yourself and one for one of your knitting buddies.

DISCLOSURE OF MATERIAL CONNECTION: I have a material connection because I received a review copy from Bookish and the publisher in exchange for a fair and honest review. Copyright © 2018 Laura Hartman

[Liz (Quirky Cat) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a copy of The Knitter’s Dictionary from BookishFirst in exchange for a fair and honest review.

When I saw A Knitter’s Dictionary listed on BookishFirst for a chance to review, I just knew that I had to try and get my hands on it. I’ve been knitting a lot lately – mostly trying to get gifts done before the holiday season hits me full force in the face. I can’t even begin to tell you how many times I’ve had to google different knitting abbreviations (I can be very forgetful, so I’m sure I looked up the same one multiple times). So…having access to a book that was a condensed version of everything I was looking for? That sounded absolutely perfect.
Having received my copy and getting a chance to read it, I can honestly tell you that I am not disappointed. This book is everything I had hoped it would be, and perhaps a little bit more as well. I’ve already used it for three different knitting projects. I kept it by my side as I worked; knowing I could quickly look up any term as I came across them in any pattern I was working on. It made life so much easier for me.
The beginning of the book would be useful to knitting beginners out there. It covers almost literally all of the basics you’ll need to know. It has everything from the types of yarn and needles available (and what you’d need depending on the project) to how to read a knitting pattern.
The dictionary part is my favorite section of the book, though you could probably have guessed that from how I was gushing about it earlier. I can’t even begin to tell you how useful I found it. Having immediate access to a litany of abbreviations, as well as the basics on how to do the stitch described…it’s a game changer.

For more reviews, check out Quirky Cat's Fat Stacks

[Rachel]

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review. Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher!

There is an abundance of books available that will teach you how to knit, but how useful is that skill if you can't understand the unique and complicated language that knitting patterns are comprised of? The Knitter's Dictionary is here to change that, acting as both dictionary and encyclopedia for the knitting world.

The Knitter's Dictionary does everything from explaining the meaning of abbreviations and shorthands to describing the practical differences between fibre types and yarn weights, to explaining how to actually size a fitted garment if you have any hope of accuracy. The book features over 150 illustrations and simple diagrams to expound on your understanding of the concepts and, if you're still wanting more, an extensive section of references and recommended reading at the very back.

This is a really great book to have on hand as a reference guide—it won't teach you how to knit, but it doesn't claim to. It's a valuable tool for beginner and intermediate knitters to have in their arsenal to help them understand patterns that at first appear illegible.

Personally, I've been knitting for a few years now and can quickly whip up a colourwork motif or steek an opening with no fear, but I still found The Knitter's Dictionary immensely valuable. Had I not picked this up, I never would have learnt that I was measuring gauge swatches wrong, or that acrylic yarn doesn't make good winterwear because it absorbs water. Now that my digital ARC has expired, I'm going to be purchasing myself a physical copy to have on hand for when I start something new.

[Madam · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you’re serious about knitting, The Knitter’s Dictionary will be as important to you as needles or yarn. Every aspect of knitting, from simple beginnings like slipknots, to complex stitches like the Icelandic yoke (lopapeysa), is covered, but more importantly, plenty of clear, concise illustrations accompany well-written directions. I’m a hands-on learner — I usually need an experienced teacher to show me what to do and how to do it, rather than demos from a book or video — but the Knitter’s Dictionary patiently walked me through several advanced stitches I hadn’t learned from teachers. This deceptively tiny blue book explains how to read a yarn label, demonstrates different types of cast-ons, provides detailed directions for interpreting stitch pattern instructions and symbols, recommends specific yarns for projects, lists care for particular fibers (hemp requires machine washing & drying to soften), illustrates a variety of knitting methods, and lists good reasons to swatch. In other words, thank your lucky stars Kate Atherley fled the tech industry, because she’s written the book that demystifies knitting and should be tucked in every yarn bag. You’ll have to wrest mine from my cold, dead, fuzz-covered fingers.