Knitting in Tuscany

by Nicky Epstein

From the bestselling author who brought you Knitting Over the Edge, Knitting Beyond the Edge, and many others, comes an exciting new book for knitters—this time, with an Italian accent! It’s filled with the warmth of the sun-splashed Tuscan countryside, inspired by Nicky’s knitting tour of the region.

Knitters will pour themselves a glass of Chianti, gaze at the gorgeous photographs, and work their way through a dozen fabulous Tuscan-style projects (presented with step-by-step instructions). They’ll also savor the tidbits Nicky imparts about the region and its knitters, and her travels through Italy.

It’s the perfect gift for anyone who feels amore for knitting and Italia.

 

Genres: Knitting, Crafts, Nonfiction

112 pages, Hardcover

First published June 2, 2009

About the author

Nicky Epstein is a knitting designer and author of numerous books on knitting. She is known for her creative combinations of knitting stitches, and for the colorful patterns often found in her sweaters, especially involving applique of separately knitted motifs.[1] In 2005, she was given a prestigious award by the National NeedleArts Association. In 2006, her work was featured in a retrospective fashion show at the Museum of Arts and Design in New York City. Since the (winter) Holiday 2005 issue, Epstein has written a regular column in Vogue Knitting called simply "Nicky Epstein".

Reviews

[Mia · Rating 2 out of 5]

I like the theme of this book as well as the fact that a not insignificant part of it is dedicated to making sure knitters have the best time possible in Tuscany, providing helpful travelling tips and suggestions on where to visit. But I have to say, the patterns are so stunningly hideous I cannot imagine anyone wanting to knit them. I mean, look at these goddamn things:








Yikes.

[Lucy · Rating 2 out of 5]

Wow. Talk about mixed reviews; everything from one-star to five-stars.
I'm afraid the title is a bit of a misnomer. She gets to knit in Tuscany, but the patterns she provides aren't inspiring in the least. Only one is a maybe for me. Of the 15 knitting patterns, only one is for beginners, and that one is in my opinion hideous: Abbondanza wrap. The Siena Rooftop Sweater looks "interesting" but I don't think all that many people want to add that much extra thickness to a sweater; and I'm not sure a 24-row repeat to achieve the "staggered holster stitch" qualifies as Easy. I'm glad there's some acknowledgment of the Etruscan people, but I'm not sure I want to knit and felt a wool pitcher. The one crochet item is a wedding dress made up of lots of circular motifs put together with large gaps between them; also it's only in one size. I guess if you really like the idea, you can use the instructions for the 7 motifs and puzzle piece them together to fit you, but I don't think the result is worth it. For toy lovers there's a knitted and felted version of Pinocchio.
The travel advice is the part that's actually appealing.
Organized into 4 groups: Florence; Siena, Monteriggioni and San Gimignano; Chianti; and Montepulciano, Montalcino and Cortona; she gives recommended hotels and places to eat, a few recommended festivals to attend, sightseeing recommendations, as well as occasional mention of a yarn shop or two. There are some enticing photos of scenery and places to see, but a few too many photos of her. Some useful travel tips. Food and wine recommendations during the travelogues. Yarn and notions resources. Three knitting instructions, but not the basics so this is not the place to learn.
She also mentions treats that not everybody can get: The twice a year trade show for the knitting industry held in Florence. A visit to a yarn mill, not open to the general public. A visit to a cashmere farm; not sure if this is restricted.
There are even three recipes: Eggplant Caponata; Pasta Frittata; Pignoli Cookies.
I'm glad I could get this from the library. I'd had to waste money on it.

[Kim Nunemaker · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I ordered this from the library, I didn't realize it was a knitting book (just clicking everything about Tuscany for my upcoming trip). While I skipped over all the knitting info, her suggestions about Accommodations, Dining and Sightseeing will be very valuable!

[Shari · Rating 3 out of 5]

We are planning a trip to Italy and I wanted to check out knitting shops there. The book was helpful along with patterns and other travel ideas fo sightseeing and restaurants.

[Beverly · Rating 2 out of 5]

Nice photos, patterns way out of my league.

[Nadia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent read! Ms Epstein did a fabulous job of amalgamating the wonders of Tuscany with the numerous joys of knitting. She touches on pretty much every aspect a traveller would want to know, restaurants, palazzos that are now hotels and the various wonders of that region of Italy. This is all combined with gorgeous knitted garments which reflect the landscape of Tuscany. My absolute favourite being the belled sleeve cardigan with hood, which reflected the colours & architecture of Siena in a true burst of creative expression. Loved it!

[Tina · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just enjoy knitting and reading. This book is both combined! Her patterns are terrific, and experiences she shared with us from her travels in Tuscany were delightful to read about. Knit on! Read on!

[Nicola · Rating 1 out of 5]

I usually like Nicky Epstein, she's an interesting designer. Works outside the box. I couldn't have been more disappointed in this book- not a single pattern interested me. Not even for it's idea. While I believe she intended this book more as a knitter's guide to Tuscany, it was not even well organized...

[Erica · Rating 2 out of 5]

Most of the projects in this book fall under the category of "Just because you CAN doesn't mean you SHOULD." The one valuable part of this book for me was the list of Tuscan yarn shops; I wish I'd had it when *I* was in Tuscany in 2006!!

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gorgeous for knitters and travelers alike. Nicky Epstein is one of the few who really knows how to write practical and straightforward knitting instructions. This book had a wonderful layout and gorgeous photos making it one for your shelves not just for a library read

[Lynn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Having just visited Tuscany in July 2014, I enjoyed the pictures and reminders of the lovely area. Although there was only one pattern I am thinking of making, I thought there were some great ideas in this book. I wish I had the list of stores when I was there, guess I'll have to go back!

[Ciaobella]

This book has 12 gorgeous patterns and I want to knit them all!

[Julie · Rating 3 out of 5]

The book is mostly travelogue, with a few patterns inspired by Tuscan scenes thrown in. Nicky Epstein also points out the yarn stores that shouldn't be missed...

[Martine · Rating 3 out of 5]

Wonderful patterns

[Gabriela · Rating 5 out of 5]

amazing! a travel guide and a knitting inspiration all in one! the patterns are absolutely gorgeous!

[Cayenne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fascinating look at Tuscany from a knitter's point of view. I enjoyed the history, the intriguing patterns and the great tourist information. Fun read.

[Theresa Beauregard · Rating 3 out of 5]

I found this book interesting, not only on a knitters level, but as someone who loves Italy and especially Tuscany. I have only had the privilege to go there once, but fell in love with the area.

[Shanna · Rating 2 out of 5]

Well, if you like intarsia, you'll love this book. Unfortunately, I am not a fan