Today, Saturday 14 June, is Worldwide Knit in Public Day! A day to bring knitters (and crocheters) together. So if you're keen to get out and knit up a storm in public, but need some project inspiration, then this is the blog for you. I've put together a collection of beginner friendly, fabulous books that will inspire your next project and keep you knitting all day long.
Grab your needles, pick out some yarn and get ready to knit in public! 🧶
52 Weeks of Accessories
It's getting cold outside (well, at least in Melbourne it is) so it's the perfect time to knit yourself some cosy new accessories to rock on your morning comute! Plus, if you put aside your whole day, you'll definitely be able to complete your project before Worldwide Knit in Public Day is over.
So, in other words, I highly recommend you pick up 52 Weeks of Accessories. It's suitable for both beginners and experienced knitters. I know you're thinking 'Lucie! It's June! It's a little late to start 52 weeks of something!' But don't let that deter you, it's never too late! Let this beautiful collection of 52 patterns get you cosy, with accessories created by 48 international designers. You'll be the coolest knitter around!
Also make sure you check out the rest of this series: 52 Weeks of scarves, easy knits and socks Vol 1 and Vol 2.
The Sock Project
Summer Lee
Socks! We wear them everyday – so it just makes sense to knit them yourself. And I don't know about you, but I love a fun pair of socks! They can take any outfit from drab to fab with bright colours and funky patterns. And that's where Summer Lee comes in with The Sock Project!
The Sock Project is a book for every crafter: beginners who want to learn, knitters who want to improve their sock skills, and anyone who wants to fill their knitting needles (and sock drawers) with jazzy designs that feature the most electric colours and wow-patterns ever dreamt up.
Cardigans
Maja Karlsson
As a youth, I believed the look of my outfit mattered more than being warm. I would show up to my grandma's place and she would be horrified at my lack of layers. She would say 'LUCIE! You're not even wearing a singlet!', then head to her wardrobe and pull out a cardigan for me to wear. I don't think I ever admitted it to her, but I always appreciated those cardigans that kept the chill away. And honestly, they were pretty cute!
I know, I know, you're not here for my sentimental ramble. So to get to my point, may I recommend Cardigans by Maja Karlsson. This is a beautiful book bursting with inspiration that invites seasoned knitters and beginners alike to construct cardigans from a selection of 20 projects. With patterns perfect for light summer layers or for layering to keep out the winter chill, every outfit will be complete.
Knits for You and Your Dog
As the proud mother of a greyhound with multiple outfits (they get cold, okay!), I had to include this one! And really, is there anything cuter than having a matching sweater with your dog? I really don't think so.
Authored by a collection of well-known Finnish and Icelandic knitters and featuring stunning location photography, Knits for You and Your Dog is an irresistible guide that features 10 matching sweater designs to keep you and your loyal companion cosy and stylish!
P.S. I don't want to hear anyone say 'what about our cats?!' when you all know that your cats would much prefer to play with a ball of yarn than be forced into a sweater that matches yours!
Fast and Fabulous Knits
Jaime Dorfman
So it gets to that point in the blog where you go 'Okay Lucie, your recs are great and all… but I don't really want to knit accessories and there's no way I'll get one of those gorgeous cardigans finished in one little Knit in Public Day!' and I hear you! So, may I present Fast and Fabulous Knits by Melbourne local, Jaime Dorfman.
Fast and Fabulous Knits includes 18 speedy, size-inclusive patterns for tops that'll fit seamlessly into your modern wardrobe, no matter your body shape and size. And the patterns switch up stitch techniques, yarn weights and needle sizes so it won't feel like you're just making something in a slightly different colour and style again and again. With these cozy, contemporary designs and speedy, stimulating knits, you'll be weaving in your ends in no time!
So if you love the idea of knitting your own clothes but find yourself deterred by how long they take, or if you have a bunch of half-finished sweaters stored somewhere, then this book is for you.
Ultimate Crochet Bible
Jane Crowfoot
You may be wondering why I've included crochet recommendations in a blog dedicated to knitting. Well the truth is… I actually don't know how to knit. Blasphemy, I know! BUT, I can crochet! And I really want to be involved! So the next few recommendations are for my fellow crocheters and those who want to learn the snowboarding of knitting!
I'll start with Ultimate Crochet Bible. This is the book for all aspects of crochet. You'll learn how to choose and use a hook, how to read a pattern and how to do basic stitches. Then you can move onto learning a wide range of techniques, how to use different colours and then finally, professional finishing techniques. No matter your level, this is a treasure trove of crochet techniques that you will turn to time and time again.
Hot Girl Crochet
Rose Svane
Crochet is very cool, I swear! Just go on social media and you'll see very cool people wearing very cool crocheted outfits! Or just look at crochet designer Rose Svane! Her designs have been featured in Cosmopolitan and she's created pieces for famous influencers like Emma Chamberlain, Maddie Ziegler, and Meadow Walker.
In Svane's Hot Girl Crochet, you'll get a crash-course in the key skills, then move on to 15 stunning projects, from a tote bag and a bucket hat, to a plant basket and a cute bikini. With a calm, creative vibe and step-by-step instructions, this is the perfect guide for complete beginners, and those who've already caught the crochet bug. Get ready to look, and most importantly feel, cool!
Hip to Be Square
Katie Jones
I want to finish this blog off with the book I'm currently obssessed with: Hip to Be Square by Katie Jones. I've spent the last few weeks using it to create brightly coloured, delightful pieces including some really cute fingerless mittens!
In Hip to Be Square, you'll learn five basic granny square patterns that you can then turn into bold and bright designs! The book includes 20 patterns for size-inclusive garments, stylish accessories, and beautiful homewares. The instructions are easy-to-follow and the step-by-step illustrations are perfect to make sure your project turns out just like the finished picture!
