Knit and Crochet with Beads

by Lily Chin

Handknitting and crochet are taken to a whole new level with the fashion-savvy designs provided in this book. Stitch techniques for knitting and crochet include prestrung and hoisted-atop stitches, single- and double-crochet, and half-double crochet. Each technique is then demonstrated with an exciting range of masterful designs that feature a sparkling array of beads strategically nestled among the stitches. Beaded projects are accompanied by easy, step-by-step instructions and illustrations and include Fair Isle and cabled tunic sweaters, a short-sleeve pullover and vest, felted slippers with a beaded-star pattern, and dazzling jewelry. Also shown are ways to mix techniques and add beaded accents to pockets, collars, scarves, socks, vests, and even pillows. Knitters and crocheters of all skill levels will find inspiring projects and a feast of possibilities for one-of-a-kind garments and accessories.

Genres: Knitting, Crochet, Crafts, Nonfiction

160 pages, Paperback

First published May 1, 2004

About the author

Published as Lily M. Chin and Lily Chin

Lily Chin, named a “Master Knitter” by Vogue Knitting International, has designed knitwear for magazines and yarn companies for nearly 25 years, and she has worked with designers Ralph Lauren, Vera Wang, Diane von Furstenberg, and Isaac Mizrahi. Her work has been on the backs of celebrities and super models, from Racquel Welch and Vanna White to Cindy Crawford and Naomi Campbell. She is the author of Knit and Crochet with Beads, The Urban Knitter, and Mosaic Magic, and she has written the “On Designing” column for Knitter’s Magazine and the annual “Focus on Fibers” report for Knit ‘n Style.

Lily also is the reigning champion fastest crocheter in the world, a title she defended in October 2004 at the world championships in London. Lily Chin regularly appears as a spokesperson for the yarn industry in media across the U.S., including Time, the New York Times, USA Today, the David Letterman Show, the CBS Early Show, DIY’s Knitty Gritty, E! Style Network’s Craft Corner Death Match, Lifetime’s Handmade by Design, HGTV’s Sew Much More, and CNN.

Lily Chin has lived in New York City nearly all her life and has been involved in some aspect of the fashion industry since age 13. She attended the Fashion Institute of Technology, and was educated at Queens College, City University of New York.

Reviews

[Lori Gautier · Rating 3 out of 5]

Beautiful projects. More illustrations of the various ways to work the beads in are needed.

[Mckinley · Rating 2 out of 5]

Nice patterns

[Kristine · Rating 4 out of 5]

my knowledge of bead knitting is low, one project + a little bead embroidery on another. so I just wanted to start familiarizing myself with the techniques. this book has so many variations to try, depending on the outcome should look. when I'm ready to really try again, this is the one to get.

both of the patterns I enjoyed had no picture in Ravely.

[Emmalee · Rating 3 out of 5]

There are some really nice designs in here. I may make something or use this as a reference later on. My concern with some of the projects in here (once you have a complete project) is cleaning them without breaking beads. I would hate to break a bead in one of these projects and then you have a missing spot in your pattern.

[Aimee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love this book. The patterns are beautiful. I hope to one day have the skill to make the things in this book.

[Anita]

Lily is not only beautiful she's an incredible person. I am happy to call her friend!

[Karen]

Pictures looked great. There are some projects that I would like to try, but no time right now. I plan to get this one back out of the library in the future to try some bead knitting.

[Johanna Haas · Rating 4 out of 5]

Directions are great, projects are over the top.