A to Z of Knitting: The Ultimate Guide for the Beginner to Advanced Knitter

by Martingale

This must-have resource offers essential knitting know-how. With more than 1,000 close-up photographs featuring real hands holding real yarn and needles, there's no easier way to learn this beautiful craft.

Genres: Knitting, Reference, Crafts, Nonfiction

152 pages, Paperback

First published June 15, 2007

About the author

Also known as, and publishing works under the author, That Patchwork Place.

Focusing on works about quilting, sewing, knitting, and crochet.

In 2007, the company's founders, Nancy and Dan Martin, retired from Martingale and sold the company to the employees who now write and publish ongoing works.

From their site, "We empower makers who use fabric and yarn to make life more enjoyable.

At Martingale, we love inspiring you to create a beautiful quilt, or a sassy bag, or an adorable pair of baby booties. But more than that, our goal is to inspire a beautiful life. It's an immensely fulfilling side effect of creating with confidence."

Reviews

[Carole Thompson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is another great knitting reference book. This one is great because there are pictures to illustration each step needed to make a pattern or fundamental techniques like casting on stitches, binding off stitches, knitting short rows, making bobbles, and knitting with sequins, just to name a few items. You can also learn how to smock and embroider on knitted stitches. There are so many good techniques that are mentioned and illustrated that you just don't want to be without this book.
(6/26/2025) Again I'm back referring to one of my reliable knitting books to help me through learning some more knitting techniques. I'm knitting a new project that calls for making increases while knitting. Good illustrations that show step-by-step positions of the needle in the knitting is so helpful. Now, I've had this book since 2009 and I never noticed the little art pictures and signs that show knitting from the past on many of the pages. It's true that we notice different things when we look at something again.

[Janie Dawes · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had recently referenced this book to learn about vertical buttonholes. The You Tube videos I watched sloughed over the most important part like adding a new ball of yarn in the middle of the work. I went to the page and my dilemma was explained clearing with a picture. I picked up my yarn and attached with no problem of adding a stitch or ending up with a big hole. I am so happy with this little book. I see from other reviews it was given as a gift. This would definitely make for a perfect gift for beginning and advanced knitters alike.

[Dandie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Illustrated stitch-by-stitch tutorials are very helpful.

[Abby Alquicira · Rating 4 out of 5]

A comprehensive look on knitting. So grateful for the detailed pictures on EVERY step. I will be using this a lot as I start my knitting journey.

[Amber McAlister · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was one of the best presents I have ever received. Soooooooooo perfect for anyone who wants to teach themselves how to knit. The photographic illustrations are actually useful, unlike so many guides to knitting that were published in the 1950s with indecipherable black and white drawings. I learned how to cable and work other more complicated knitting feats with the aid of this publication. It makes an excellent gift for anyone interested in knitting who isn't already a knitting know-it-all.

[Eqotu Nobobeme · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great basic book covering various techniques to improve knitting for the beginner to advance knitter.

[Kate Burgan · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great reference book with good pictures to help answer questions.
Good Index to find your question in a hurry.

[Robin Mitchell · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great way of explaining different skills with step by step pictures.

[Judi · Rating 3 out of 5]

A nice general guide to knitting covering history, types of yarn, gauge and methods. Clear and detailed photos cover all aspects of techniques including embellishment. A great resource for knitters.

[Kaitlyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great book for anyone wanting to learn how to knit!