Japanese Knitting Stitches from Tokyo's Kazekobo Studio - by Yoko Hatta (Paperback)

About the Book

This exciting new Japanese stitch dictionary is from the popular founder and driving force behind the Kazekobo Studio. Though this is her first book in English, her work already has an extensive following in Western countries--more than 1,000 of her designs can be seen on Ravelry.com..com.

Book Synopsis

This exciting new Japanese stitch dictionary is from popular designer Yoko Hatta--the founder and driving force behind the Kazekobo Studio. Though this is her first book in English, her work already has an extensive following in Western countries--more than 1,000 of her designs can be seen on Ravelry.com.

Hatta is one of several Japanese knitters whose patterns and designs have sparked an explosion of interest in Japanese knitting techniques and aesthetics around the world. Her work in knitwear design spans more than thirty years, and knitters love her modern-yet-timeless, fun-yet-classy styles.

This book presents her 200 favorite Kazekobo stitch patterns--a delightful selection of multipurpose knit-and-purl, lace, cable, Aran and rib & twist stitches in solids and motifs.

Sample projects give knitters a chance to practice Hatta's techniques. These include:

• Mini mufflers using knit-and-purl stitches
• A cozy scallop-edged scarf using lace stitches
• A beautifully textured pair of mittens using cable and Aran stitches
• A stylish and sturdy pair of two-tone socks using rib and twist stitches

Experienced knitters will find a wealth of unique patterns just waiting to be brought to life. A guide to the basic symbols shows how to knit the stitches, step-by-step.

Originally published in Japanese by Nihon Vogue, whose books have brought the designs of artists such as Hitomi Shida, Keiko Okamoto and others to knitters around the world, this book will be a much-anticipated addition to every knitter's library.

Review Quotes

"...the best, most workable, most wearable, most usable knitting stitch patterns...an extremely valuable compilation of recommendations from a knit designer who is incredibly good at what she does...I think of this book as being a rare and precious treasure--especially considering that the team at Tuttle Publishing has helped us all to transcend the language barrier to give us this priceless gift." -- KnittingandCrochet.net

"If you are an enthusiastic knitter and love creating magic with yarn, then you'll love the creative patterns in Japanese Knitting Stitches from Tokyo's Kazekobo Studio. It's a dictionary, a compendium of 200 gorgeous patterns that offer simple to intricate stitches and techniques." -- Pausitive Living blog

"If you are searching for unique cultural inspiration, this exquisite book delivers an excellent range of knitting projects...This detailed work includes a conversion table at the back and also a quick guide on how to read the Japanese charts, which differ from Western ones. A book you're sure to love!"--Simply Knitting magazine

"Not for the faint of heart (or hand), this knitting guide from yarn virtuoso Hatta will appeal to those already expert in the craft. The superbly designed and photographed book represents Japanese knitting at its finest...This is a perfect stitch dictionary for any knitter embarking on charted territory for the third or fourth time." -- Publishers Weekly

"Stitch dictionaries are an essential part of the knitter's library, and Japanese stitch dictionaries are highly sought after by intermediate and advanced knitters. This English translation features 200 stitch patterns, all of which are charted, and offers a comprehensive guide to chart symbols." -- Library Journal

About the Author

Yoko Hatta is the designer behind the Japanese knitting studio Kazekobo. A prolific artist whose work spans over thirty years, she has written many knitwear books and stitch dictionaries, and contributed to numerous magazines and compilations in both Japan and the US. She is a contributor to Brooklyn Tweed and Vogue Knitting, and over 1,000 of her designs can be seen on Ravelry.com. Her designs are known for adding contemporary flair to classic garments.

Translator and introduction writer Cassandra Harada is a fiber artist living in Japan, and spends most of her time knitting, and spinning for herself and good friends. Originally from the US, Cassandra has been in Japan for about 15 years and thoroughly enjoys studying the language and culture of her adopted home. Cassandra teaches knitting and spinning in Japan and America and occasionally publishes her own design work.