Knitting

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Knitting Out Loud Book Review

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Knitting Out Loud is an audio book company publishing audio recordings of the best of knitting literature. It is the only audiobook company to specialize in knitting including, histories of knitting, essays on knitting and studies of ethnic styles of knitting and other fiber arts.

The best thing about Knitting Out Loud Audio books is that you can listen to them, yes you got it WHILE YOU KNIT.

I was sent two copies to review and I must say they were both quite delightful (mentioned below) but they currently have 6 Audio Books to choose from. I did not get a chance to listen to my review copies while actually knitting though, Instead in my car on my way to and from work. I always found knitting to be relaxing, but now I know listening to people talk about knitting is also relaxing.

A history of hand knitting RRP $29.95- I found this book to be intriguing and very educational, there is no doubt the research has been done to provide you with an in-depth account, both formal and personal of the history of Hand knitting.

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The Art Of Fair Isle Knitting – RRP $14.95 – This Audio book discusses the foundations of Fair isle knitting from it’s heritage to it’s modern day transition. It covers the social and political history behind Fair Isle Knitting and almost takes you back to the cold blistery nights spent knitting by the women of the Shetland island, where it all began.

—-COMPETITION GIVEAWAY—-

To Celebrate the debut of Knitting Out Loud Audio books we are giving you the chance to win the the review copies above.

For your chance to win tell me which copy you would like to win by leaving a “comment”on this post.

(make sure you use a valid e-mail ID so I can contact you if you are a winner, otherwise I will re-draw)

2 winners (1 of each copy) will be selected as the winners.

Competition Details.

Prize – 1 of 2 Knitting Audio Books

Close Date – 2nd March 2008

Entry – Worldwide, Entry- Once Only

Comments

  3. The Art of Fair Isle Knitting book would be a great addition to my knitting reference book collection. Thank you for the info and for holding the drawing.

  6. As a mom to a DD who has benefitted greatly from audio books, I’m excited that these books are now available. The price is right, actually a bargain. This is just so wonderful. I went to the actual site and DD is thinking about which book she wants me to get her first. If an audio book on knitting can intrigue a sci-fi and mystery fan, then I’ll buy it.

  7. Hello, Thanks for a fun contest! I would like any of the three, but the historical one I would enjoy the most. Thanks,Cindi

  9. What a great way to “read” a book while knitting. I’d love to have a copy of The History of Hand Knitting.

  11. Audio books and knitting — a terrific pair! I’d love to listen to A History of Hand Knitting.

  13. Hi! I just found your site while searching for some Berroco pattern information. I definitely check it out further. My choice would be the History of Knitting, because I find antique pattern books and needlework tools fascinating. Thanks.

  14. I like the sound of both of the Knitting Out Loud audio books, but I would love to win a copy of “The Art of Fair Isle Knitting” because it is a technique I have yet to master completely. Maybe hearing some of the history will make me work at it a bit harder.

  15. as “aDaneInItaly” (on Ravelry) I should be happy to win the “The Art Of Fair Isle Knitting”…. the Fair Isles are a part of Denmark and many patterns were and are still used in Denmark.
    This book would remember me my Grandma (mum’s mum) who taught me to knit more than half a century ago… and who knitted several things to me when I was a child just using some Fair Isle patterns (hats, jumpers, jackes, mittens) – which I don’t have any more but should like to try….
    winning this book it might be the way of trying!

    best knittingwishes
    mette – Italy
    knittingmette.etsy.com

  18. “The Art of Fair Isle Knitting” book would be the one I would choose. I am fascinated by this method, but don’t have the courage to try it yet.

  21. I’d love to win ‘The Art Of Fair Isle Knitting’. It’s very interesting that they are now in audio books. My grandma would enjoy this.

  23. What a great idea! I love to read, I love to knit, I love to read about knitting. Now I can do both at once. I’d love either – but my first choice is the History of Hand Knitting.

  24. I’ve never tried listening to a book while knitting…great idea tho! I would like to win a copy of the Art of Fair Isle Knitting. Thanks!

  27. I would choose The Art of Fair Isle Knitting although both audiobooks sound interesting–great to listen to on those long commutes.

  28. I would love to win either of the books! They both look wonderful! I love listening to audio books esecially while I’m knitting! A knitting audio book is just too perfect!

  29. What a novel idea! I would love to have The History of Knitting – it must be full of interesting facts!

Have you read?

Vintage Bed Socks Knitting Pattern – A Cozy Little Gift Project With Old-Fashioned Charm

There is something wonderfully nostalgic about a pair of handmade bed socks, isn’t there? They are practical, pretty, and just the sort of project that feels like it belongs beside a cup of tea, a good film, and a basket of wool that is pretending not to be overflowing.

This vintage Bed Socks knitting pattern is one of those sweet little patterns that still feels useful today. Originally from the Jaeger Hand-Knit Series No. 44, the design features a simple garter-stitch foot, a ribbed cuff, eyelet holes, a crochet chain tie, and little tassel-style pom-poms at the front. The original pattern even describes them as “a very acceptable present,” and honestly, I don’t think much has changed there.

These would make a lovely handmade gift for someone who is always cold, someone recovering or resting, or anyone who appreciates a bit of old-fashioned comfort. They would also be beautiful as a Mother’s Day gift, a winter birthday present, a Christmas stocking filler, or a “just because you deserve cozy feet” project.

The pattern itself is delightfully simple in construction. The socks are knitted flat, beginning at the lower edge, with the foot worked in garter stitch before moving into the ribbed upper section. The decorative eyelet row allows for a crochet chain cord to be threaded through, and the finishing tassels give the socks that charming vintage look. The top edge is finished with a row of double crochet, which adds a neat handmade touch.

The original measurements list the socks as approximately 10½ inches from the top to the lower edge of the heel, with a 9¾ inch foot length, and the pattern notes that the size can be adapted. As with many vintage knitting patterns, modern knitters will want to check gauge carefully and choose a soft yarn that feels comfortable against the skin. A cozy wool blend, soft acrylic, or washable yarn would all work depending on whether you are making these for everyday use or as a special gift.

I especially love that this pattern has that “giftable” quality without being a massive project. It is small enough to feel achievable, but still special enough that the finished pair looks thoughtful. And let’s be honest, handmade socks with pom-poms are always going to beat a last-minute candle from the supermarket.

The PDF version has been cleaned up and formatted for easier reading while keeping the original vintage design intact. It also includes a modern pink mockup image and the original vintage scan, so you get both the historical charm and a fresh idea of how the finished socks could look today.

If you enjoy vintage knitting patterns, cozy handmade gifts, or quick projects that feel useful rather than just decorative, this sweet little bed socks pattern is a lovely one to add to your collection.

You can find the Vintage Bed Socks Knitting Pattern PDF in the CraftGossip Etsy store.

For supplies, this is also a nice stash-friendly project. A soft yarn from Mary Maxim or Amazon would work well, and if you make pom-poms regularly, a small pom-pom maker is one of those inexpensive tools that saves a surprising amount of fiddling.