Compassionate Knitting: Finding Basic Goodness in the Work of Our Hands

by Tara Jon Manning

There is a growing movement in this country towards an interest in knitting as a craft and a spiritual practice. Tara Jon Manning, expert knitter and the author of Mindful Knitting , uses her background in Shambhala Buddhism and Eastern arts to incorporate these two seemingly disparate ideas in her compelling new knitting book, Compassionate Knitting

Compassionate Finding Basic Goodness in the Work of Our Hands is a knitting book unlike any other. The 20 original-design projects included in this book range from small accessory items and gifts to wearable garments-all of which include personal ritual in their creation or use. Each project is inspired by an element of the world around us, based on a contemplative theme drawn from Shambhala Buddhism and Eastern arts or, in some cases, Western notions of the magical and mindful.

The unique projects featured in this creative new book invite readers to develop significant and satisfying connections to their projects, the knitting process and those for whom they knit. Knitters can deepen their relationship with the craft and explore how it inspires compassion and connection with the basic goodness in the world. Continuing the author's concept of mindful knitting, Compassionate Knitting encourages readers to relax in the moment, and provides readers with a path for personal development through knitting.

Genres: Knitting, Crafts, Nonfiction

136 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1900

Reviews

[Jan · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is designed to help the knitter not only create an object but to benefit personally from the creation. There is a nice variety of patterns, from baby clothes to pillows. I have made several pairs of the "Wisps of Mist Wrist Warmers".

[Anne · Rating 1 out of 5]

I only found 1 pattern out of 20 to try. I was expecting more on the concepts instead of what was in the 3 page intro.

[Teena in Toronto · Rating 3 out of 5]

Interesting selection of patterns with sidenotes of instruction, the folklore of aran stitches, etc. There are colour pictures of the projects at the back and the patterns don't seem too difficult.

[Cyndi · Rating 3 out of 5]

I think I need to find a way to read her other book about this topic. My library doesn't seem to have it... :-(