Portuguese Knitting - by Rosa Pomar (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

Discover the history and rich tradition of Portuguese knitting through 20 beautiful, heritage-inspired patterns, with inspirational knitwear designer Rosa Pomar (@retrosariarosapomar).

More than just a history book or knitting guide, Portuguese Knitting is a journey into Portugal's knitting traditions, combining Rosa's contemporary, chic designs with a deep commitment to preserving Portuguese textile heritage.

Traditional patterns and techniques are brought up to date in the form of beautifully modern wearables and stylish home accessories. Each project is inspired from Portuguese heritage: choose from cosy socks, woolly hats and shawls, pot holders and a rug for your home, as well as a stylish bag and pouch in traditional Portuguese designs.

The book is a celebration of Portugal's knitting traditions and includes:

• A fascinating in-depth look into the history of Portuguese knitting, with rare archive photos and cultural insights.
• Comprehensive, illustrated techniques explaining Portuguese knitting, which differs from regular knitting in the way the wool is held. Learn the unique techniques and stitches used in the patterns, such as casting on and casting off, increasing, decreasing, ribbing, colour work and thrumming.
• 20 original patterns to knit - create unique, contemporary pieces using traditional techniques and natural fibres.
• Easy-to-follow instructions and clearly set out patterns for beginners or more experienced knitters alike.

This is an English translation of the Portuguese book, Malhas Portuguesas: História e prática do tricot em Portugal.

Review Quotes

Yarn Geeks - March 2020
If your heart sinks at the thought of purl rows, then Portuguese Knitting might be the book for you. Most Portuguese knitters hold the yarn in a way that makes purling easy--so easy that they prefer it to the knit stitch.
For this technique, the yarn runs around the back of the neck, or through a special hook pinned to clothing at shoulder height. With the yarn held at this angle, and the right hand providing tension, the left thumb can flick the yarn over the right needle which then scoops up the new stitch. Who knew that purling could be so easy? I mean, other than the entire knitting population of Portugal, of course. There's more to the book than just the technique--Rosa Pomar travelled all over her homeland collecting stories from knitters.

Postcard Reviews May 2020

If you have never seen Portuguese Knitting in action, it's well worth finding a video to see. It is absolutely fascinating!
This book should be on every knitters wishlist. It is filled with beautiful projects, 20 in total, they all have stunning designs and beautiful colour choices.
The beginning of the book gives an in depth history of Portuguese knitting, with some interesting pictures. There is advice on pins, needles and most importantly yarn.
The projects themselves are varied, hats, bags, leggings and even a pillow, show how versatile and useful Portuguese Knitting can be.
There are several techniques, stitches, hints and tips to help you along the way and you can even embroider your finished design to give it a personal and individual flair.
I adored the Lace Collar, it's very vintage and really beautiful.
5/5

About the Author

Rosa Pomar learned to knit at the age of seven and never stopped. As a child, she knitted mainly dolls and her family found it difficult to tear her away from her knitting needles. She took courses in medieval history, then subsequently in illustration at the School of Visual Arts in Nova Cirque. As the author of one of the oldest Portuguese blogs, ervilhacorderosa.com, she frequently addresses the subject of traditional Portuguese textiles. She carries out research in this area, especially in the field of wool, travelling around the country to visit shepherds and spinners. In 2008, she created Retrosaria, a store dedicated to the sale of fabrics and materials for knitting and sewing (www.retrosaria.rosapomar.com). Since 2009, she has created several new textile techniques, always finding ways of bringing the tradition Portuguese knitting methods into contemporary pieces. She has taught dozens of people to knit.