As some of you know, for years I have occasionally taught a class titled “Looking at Yarns in New Way”. Actually, that class has had various titles along the way (like “Yarn Shopping Trip”) or parts of the class taught thereof (like “Knitting with Singles”), but invariably it comes down to understanding “what the yarn wants to be” so that you have confidence in selecting a suitable project for the yarn, enjoy the process of knitting the yarn and are satisfied with the end result.

When Clara Parkes invited me to contribute to her upcoming book “The Knitter’s Book of Yarn”, I couldn’t help but relate to the premise of her book … She would discuss the most common fibers you’d find in commercial yarns, where they come from, how they feel and wear and behave, how yarn is made, who makes it, how it gets to you, and what it longs to become. And she wanted to have patterns for project that would let the reader practice what they’d just read in each step of the book.

I expressed my interest, but also my regret, in that I could not meet the timeframe Clara required for deliverables as I already had commitments on my schedule that precluded being able to accept. I thought that was the end of that, but Clara came back to me and asked if I could possibly do if given a slightly longer time. She already knew my reputation for attention to detail and accuracy, so was not concerned that there would be any problems in the editing phase. Well, kind words never hurt one’s self-esteem, and I REALLY did like the premise and wanted to participate, so we worked things out. I am glad I did, because what a book! I hope you will enjoy the “Raspberry Rhapsody” textured lace scarf pattern I designed and contributed to the book.

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The Knitter’s Book of Yarn: The Ultimate Guide to Choosing, Using, and Enjoying Yarn

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