What do you think?
Finishing School: A Master Class for Knitters
Notable knitter and designer Deborah Newton shares her expertise and love of finishing techniques in an on-the-page master class.
Finishing School is THE most trusted resource on finishing techniques for knitting. Compiling her sage wisdom from more than 25 years of experience, Deborah Newton offers a welcoming and straightforward approach that empowers knitters to create professional-looking garments and accessories. She patiently takes her student-readers through every essential finishing technique—blocking, seaming, buttonholes and bands, zippers, edgings, pockets, and other embellishments—and carefully demystifies it with detailed photography, in-depth examples, and helpful sidebars, tips, and tutorials. As a bonus, 15 patterns for sweaters, jackets, and scarves, many with variations, illustrate the newly learned techniques to further cement essential skills.
Finishing School is THE most trusted resource on finishing techniques for knitting. Compiling her sage wisdom from more than 25 years of experience, Deborah Newton offers a welcoming and straightforward approach that empowers knitters to create professional-looking garments and accessories. She patiently takes her student-readers through every essential finishing technique—blocking, seaming, buttonholes and bands, zippers, edgings, pockets, and other embellishments—and carefully demystifies it with detailed photography, in-depth examples, and helpful sidebars, tips, and tutorials. As a bonus, 15 patterns for sweaters, jackets, and scarves, many with variations, illustrate the newly learned techniques to further cement essential skills.
164 pages, Paperback
First published October 4, 2011
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
February 10, 2014
I thought some of the techniques and information were good, but I just didn't care for the book itself. It is too wordy to find what you want quickly. If this book were laid out more like a reference book it would be a lot more functional.
Because it is focused on sweaters I also thought some important finishing techniques were lacking, like more cast on and bind off techniques or a more detailed review of no-curl fabric stitches to use in lieu of edging. Gussets and short rows were glossed over and it didn't address when to use the different increase or decrease stitches either. I would have also liked to see more on ribbing for both form and function. Although I dislike blocking and often procrastinate between binding off and blocking, I think the author's advice to not block unless absolutely necessary is terrible advice.
Also, I suppose I am spoiled by TechKnitter's blog, but I have no idea why more instructional graphics weren't included to better illustrate the techniques.
I personally find TechKnitter and the old Techniques with Teresa reference articles on Knitty a much easier way to quickly look up a technique and get the how-to steps without a lot of fluff, and better graphics and more pictures to boot!
Because it is focused on sweaters I also thought some important finishing techniques were lacking, like more cast on and bind off techniques or a more detailed review of no-curl fabric stitches to use in lieu of edging. Gussets and short rows were glossed over and it didn't address when to use the different increase or decrease stitches either. I would have also liked to see more on ribbing for both form and function. Although I dislike blocking and often procrastinate between binding off and blocking, I think the author's advice to not block unless absolutely necessary is terrible advice.
Also, I suppose I am spoiled by TechKnitter's blog, but I have no idea why more instructional graphics weren't included to better illustrate the techniques.
I personally find TechKnitter and the old Techniques with Teresa reference articles on Knitty a much easier way to quickly look up a technique and get the how-to steps without a lot of fluff, and better graphics and more pictures to boot!
February 28, 2019
I don't know what I am missing. There was too much text and too many pictures of swatches and not enough technique demonstration. I don't think most patterns added anything here, but I guess publishers/consumers expect that books will have lots of patterns. Having more couture itwms would have been interesting. Overall, good to borrow but not to own.
September 17, 2014
If I ever complete any project that is as ugly as the ones in this book please maim my fingers and destroy my stash.
The tech part was mostly about seaming which might be useful if, you know, I made seamed sweaters. Which I will never do.
The tech part was mostly about seaming which might be useful if, you know, I made seamed sweaters. Which I will never do.
May 18, 2019
Every knitter has a knitting book of some kind, and Finishing School not only has 15 glorious patterns included it has relevant and helpful information we might have forgotten or may not have ever known.
I never knew the importance of making a swatch.. but now I understand that is a fundamental part of getting a perfect finished knit.
Blocking, Yarn differences, edging and even sewing your garment together are all important aspects of knitting that have been included in this amazing book.
I learned such a lot, and I have been knitting for many many years. I loved the felting section, which is something I would never have considered.
The pattern section is easy to understand and with four skill levels, even the beginner will have a project to do. The pictures of the work is gorgeous and I loved the neutral tones of each design.
There are many skills covered and I do think this is a book from which every lover of knitting can learn.
I never knew the importance of making a swatch.. but now I understand that is a fundamental part of getting a perfect finished knit.
Blocking, Yarn differences, edging and even sewing your garment together are all important aspects of knitting that have been included in this amazing book.
I learned such a lot, and I have been knitting for many many years. I loved the felting section, which is something I would never have considered.
The pattern section is easy to understand and with four skill levels, even the beginner will have a project to do. The pictures of the work is gorgeous and I loved the neutral tones of each design.
There are many skills covered and I do think this is a book from which every lover of knitting can learn.
April 14, 2025
This coffee table sized book is an excellent, as titled, master class in knitting finishing, tips and tricks. I have been knitting for many years and picked up some new techniques. Also, I am a potter and teach pottery, and I found it quite amusing that she approaches the art of knitting the same way I try to get my students to approach their pots: what is the end result, size, shape, design? Don’t know how something is going to turn out? Test, test, test. Newton has a long pedigree working for places like Vogue Knitting and so you know her experience is legit. The book has many excellent photos and illustrations as well as great explanations that make some of the more intimidating knitting techniques seem a lot more simple. Well worth a read for new and experienced knitters both.
August 10, 2026
This book was completely over my head when I first read it. But, I read every page. It opened up a whole new world to me. It changed the way I look at a knitting project. So many details, lovely pictures, very inspiring. The Chanel-look cardigan/jacket is gorgeous; the finishing techniques are amazing.
December 6, 2019
This book, for me, a concise reference book for all things finishing. There is information on blocking, seaming, adding buttons/zippers, and even embellishments
October 9, 2011
This book is awesome! There is so much in here for finishing every project, fixing every type of problem you could have, and techniques for making your handknits above the norm. I've learned so much just from flipping through it quickly. I refuse to part with it: It's a permanent addition to my knitting bookshelf.
Images and layout are very visually appealing, and the patterns are beautiful. There are lots of inspiring photographs and referenced projects that can be looked up. There aren't a whole lot of patterns in the book itself, because it's really all about techniques to finish your handknits.
My only complaint is very small and irrelevant to almost everyone: I'm trying to figure out why the whole book is formatted backwards, with a sans serif body text, and serif headers… maybe it's the technical writer/editor inside me, but it irritates me and it sticks out like a sore thumb.
But that's a pretty minor complaint when you think about it.
Recommended for knitters of all levels!
Images and layout are very visually appealing, and the patterns are beautiful. There are lots of inspiring photographs and referenced projects that can be looked up. There aren't a whole lot of patterns in the book itself, because it's really all about techniques to finish your handknits.
My only complaint is very small and irrelevant to almost everyone: I'm trying to figure out why the whole book is formatted backwards, with a sans serif body text, and serif headers… maybe it's the technical writer/editor inside me, but it irritates me and it sticks out like a sore thumb.
But that's a pretty minor complaint when you think about it.
Recommended for knitters of all levels!
October 24, 2013
I have spent hours devouring this book - what a good resource. I found out so many good things to help me produce neater knitting. Her method for sewing on a line of buttons will be mine for evermore! That tip alone was worth the price of the book.
Bad points, well, she obviously likes seamed knitwear, and I'm moving towards eliminating seams when possible. And I only like one of the patterns - a 'French' style slip-stitch jacket.
Although it contains many things I wish I'd known before, beginners may find it a little technical, but it's a book to keep on the shelf and return to often. There are a few dense pages that I skipped, but, they are there if I need them.
It's also well written, spiced up with personal anecdotes and explanations for those knitting mysteries that so often foil my plans!
Good clear pictures. Good layout. Nice feel to the book.
Bad points, well, she obviously likes seamed knitwear, and I'm moving towards eliminating seams when possible. And I only like one of the patterns - a 'French' style slip-stitch jacket.
Although it contains many things I wish I'd known before, beginners may find it a little technical, but it's a book to keep on the shelf and return to often. There are a few dense pages that I skipped, but, they are there if I need them.
It's also well written, spiced up with personal anecdotes and explanations for those knitting mysteries that so often foil my plans!
Good clear pictures. Good layout. Nice feel to the book.
October 6, 2011
Wow. Just wow. This is an incredible reference for any one who knits, crochets or sews. I have a high level of difficulty in learning these type of skills from a book. I'd love to take a class from Deborah, that uses this book as her textbook. I feel that it will not sink into my skull unless it is spoon-fed by a skilled instructor. But it is great to realize that this reference is available should I get myself into a pickle and need it.
March 20, 2012
Great resource book. Newton does a great job of explaining everything from blocking basics to installing a zipper. She offers several different methods for each topic and she has great tips she has learned from her many years of knitwear design. Finishing School has really left me confident to try customizing patterns!
November 9, 2012
This book, in my opinion, is a 4.5. The instructions and tips are very informative. Deborah Newton offers the best advice on how to steek I've seen.
Although every question I had was answered in time, I do wish there was a glossary. Also, the projects were a bit dated and did not interest me very much, but I guess if you'd want to practice every kind of embellishment..
Although every question I had was answered in time, I do wish there was a glossary. Also, the projects were a bit dated and did not interest me very much, but I guess if you'd want to practice every kind of embellishment..
February 3, 2015
This is a beautiful book, and I much enjoyed reading it.
The author did me a huge favor by explaining why I was so unhappy with one of my projects - the pattern was severely lacking in finishing instruction details. I am forever grateful.
So now I know what to look for before I start a project, and this has helped me design solutions to many knitting problems.
The author did me a huge favor by explaining why I was so unhappy with one of my projects - the pattern was severely lacking in finishing instruction details. I am forever grateful.
So now I know what to look for before I start a project, and this has helped me design solutions to many knitting problems.
March 12, 2012
Just started this but loving her approach to blocking (do as little as you can - I agree completely!). Not quite as convinced about her seam stitches; outlining the shape of pieces is great sometimes, but that's not always the best solution.
March 3, 2016
This book was a gift from a knitter. While I can't imagine wanting to make the things in this book, the techniques were solid and helped develop my knitting skills. It's my default for how I do seams, and my preferred choice of button holes.
March 3, 2012
Packed full of info, good for beginners and more experienced knitters, recommend to anyone interested in knitting.
April 5, 2012
Library Book: Definitely would purchase this book. This book is a wealth of information, the photo's and detail are extraordinarily clear. Another must have reference book
July 18, 2012
Great sweater finishing resource. If you don't swatch regularly or completely, please reading her compelling chapter on switching. It will change your approach for the better.
July 19, 2012
This book is most useful for sweater knitters. It does't have much for other knitters.
December 29, 2012
Will definitely be adding this one to my personal library at some point.
July 26, 2014
Interesting. WIll need to re read this one to learn and remember techniques.
July 27, 2014
Very useful and a book I want to add to my collection. Has good directions on lots of different finishing techniques.
March 26, 2016
This book is great for any serious knitter to think about how to take their craft to the next level.
January 5, 2017
Perusasiaa, ei mitään uutta eikä ihmeellistä. Joillekin voi olla hyödyllinen kyllä.
March 23, 2017
Looks like it might be informative and useful, but it's a little too advanced for me right now. I was a little overwhelmed just flipping through it. Not only am I lazy and have a short attention span, but I like making seamless projects (socks and fair isle and what-not...). I will definitely keep this book in mind though, in case I decide to test my mettle and make a seamed sweater someday...
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews