Sometimes it surprises people to learn that I’m a self-taught crafter. Though it’s true that I’ve always been a builder of contraptions, a taker-apart-er, and a plotter of grand schemes, I didn’t actually grow up knowing how to sew, knit, embroider, and construct. In fact, I didn’t learn most of those things until I was already an adult. Maybe it’s because of my age (I’ll be 30 in February) or the widespread rejection of traditionally feminine skills that was so prominent in the early 1980s, but my childhood exposure to both fine and practical handiwork was limited at best. It wasn’t that my parents and grandparents didn’t know how to darn a sock or crochet a scarf—I actually come from a long line of skilled makers—it’s just that it never occurred to them that a smart, precocious gal growing up in the wake of modern conveniences and women’s lib would ever need or want to learn those skills. So, when I finally got bitten by the knitting bug in college, I did what any modern, self-sufficient girl would do: I headed straight to the library.
Here are the top 8 books—old and new—that taught me how to craft:
1. Stitch ‘N Bitch: The Knitter’s Handbook
2. Knitting in Plain English, Updated Edition
3. Stitch ‘N Bitch Crochet: The Happy Hooker
4. The Crochet Answer Book: Solutions to Every Problem You’ll Ever Face; Answers to Every Question You’ll Ever Ask
5. Reader’s Digest Complete Guide to Needlework
6. Sew U: The Built by Wendy Guide to Making Your Own Wardrobe
7. Sublime Stitching: Hundreds of Hip Embroidery Patterns and How-To
8. Embroidered Effects: Projects and Patterns to Inspire Your Stitching
That’s the end of my list! What are your go-to craft books for beginners?
**Please note that the links provided above are affiliate links, and I will be compensated if you choose to make a purchase after clicking through.**
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That’s a great list of books! Stitch n Bitch rekindled my interest in knitting when I was in high school (I learned how to knit when I was 9) and is really the reason why I am the knitting junky I am today.
Lucinda recently posted..Pattern Review: Vogue 1250 [Feather Dress]
I met Debbie Stoller at Maker Faire a few weeks ago, and it took all of my strength not to go fangirl on her. I’m pretty sure Stitch ‘N Bitch is largely responsible for getting this whole DIY resurgence of rolling. :)
thezenofmaking recently posted..8 Books That Taught Me How to Craft
I’m not much older than you (31) and crafting was what I did with my grandpa during summer vacations. My grandparents taught me to crochet and I think I “designed” my first pattern when I was 10. My grandpa let me use the scroll saw when I was that age too. In my adult life I taught myself to embroder, sew, and quilt. There’s tons more out there to learn.
I love that! I’m a strong believer that, from a very young age, all kids should be encouraged to make.
thezenofmaking recently posted..8 Books That Taught Me How to Craft
You’re so creative and wonderful, this makes me more inspired to be a better crafter!