Splendid Apparel A Handbook of Embroidered Knits

The craft of knitting is devoted to making useful things, and the craft of embroidery is devoted to making useful things beautiful: Splendid Apparel brings these two crafts together. Anna Zilboorg begins with richly textured knit fabrics then adds embroidery for emphasis, color, detail, and sheen. The book includes a dozen example embroidery stitches and a library of more than 50 textured knit patterns, and the swatches— photographed both as they come off the knitting needles and after embroidery is added— clearly show the transformations and provide springboards for further experimentation. Stitch basics and step-by-step illustrations help a novice learn the simple motions, try variations, and add a contrasting color, while Anna’s cogent comments identify where a knit stitch may require special attention and adjustments to make the embroidery steps easier. The 18 full patterns in this book are all basic shapes—a few with innovative, join-as-you-go construction.

Anna Zilboorg is a knitter, a dyer, a designer, and the author of Magnificent Mittens & Socks. Her other books include 45 Fine & Fanciful Hats to Knit, Fancy Feet, Knitting for Anarchists, and Socks for Sandals and Clogs. She lives in Meadows of Dan, Virginia. Alexis Xenakis is a photographer and the publisher for Knitter’s Magazine and XRX Books. He lives in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.