Reversible Knitting: 50 Brand-New, Groundbreaking Stitch Patterns

by Lynne Barr, Thayer Allyson Gowdy (Photographer)

Most of the stitch dictionaries on knitters’ shelves are remixes of familiar stitch patterns already published elsewhere. Not so for Lynne Barr’s groundbreaking book Reversible Knitting. Not only is every one of the 50 stitch patterns completely new and never before seen, but each is also reversible―for a total of 100 different looks!Reversible stitch patterns can be used to create projects where either side can be worn facing outward, or where two sides of the piece are visible simultaneously (such as a scarf or a garment with collar or cuffs that that can be worn up or down). In addition to stitch patterns, the book features 20 such projects―from accessories like scarves, hats, and socks to sweaters and dresses―designed by the author and by 12 top knitwear designers including STC authors Véronik Avery, Norah Gaughan, and Teva Durham. Rounding out the book are in-depth instructions for the specialized techniques required for reversilbe work.

Genres: Knitting, Nonfiction, Crafts, Reference

192 pages, Hardcover

First published October 1, 2009

Reviews

[Cheap and Lazy · Rating 4 out of 5]

While I didn't care (at all) for any of the garment patterns included in the book, I found lots of fun NEW (!) stitch patterns to work with, which is what I bought it for. I just completed a gorgeous scarf out of some old Noro Silver Thaw using the Garter Triangles stitch pattern. The directions were easy to follow, and I really appreciated the step-by-step photos for some of the trickier manuevers. I also liked that both front and back photos were included for each of the stitch patterns (where the back looked different). I'm excited to try more.

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have started on my first project from this book and am having the best time! It is an asymmetrical pair of socks that tie up the leg. It is unusual when I buy a knitting book, it has to have at least three things in it that I would like to knit. This book has only about three things I don't want to knit. The fact that most items can be worn two ways is just way too much fun.

[Britney · Rating 1 out of 5]

I've got to be honest. There were some patterns in this book that I did not mind. (Those happened to be the ones I could picture making into Halloween costumes). Most of them however, were odd if not downright weird. I'm a weird person myself, don't get me wrong, but these patterns seemed more like something you would find at one of those prestigious art gallery showings where everyone oohs and aaahs over the most obscure and confusing artwork proclaiming "Masterpiece!" while the plebian in the back has absolutely no clue what they are looking at. So if you like those kinds of designs this book is for you. Another problem I had were the instructions. Particularly the section on extreme double knitting. I swear it read like stereo instructions. Complete with undead exorcist. But anyhow, it's safe to say that I will not be recommending this book to any of my friends.

[penny shima glanz · Rating 4 out of 5]

Barr takes the innovations and lessons from her first book, Knitting New Scarves and takes a huge leap forward with this new title. While it is a traditional hardback book, I wasn't upset as I sat on the train absorbed in the clear photos, unique stitch organization for the 50 included designs, and the unique patterns Barr and others have contributed to show the extreme flexibility and endless possibilities for reversible knitting. I can't decide which new stitch pattern excites me the most, I'll have to try them all. If you are looking for a unique dictionary or inspiration maker for either yourself or the knitter who has everything and likes to try it all, you will not be disappointed with this book.

[Rachel · Rating 1 out of 5]

Just because you can make something reversible doesn’t mean you should.

Some of these looked like the messy, tangled, mistake-laden back side of a project. And the reverse wasn’t any better.
And one in particular looked like the favorite sweater that you wore until it was dingy and full of tiny holes, and probably smells bad too.
Lastly, I am left wondering if “Lice” has a different meaning in other languages, because one of the patterns is named “Lice jacket”.

Kudos to the author for her willingness to explore different techniques.

[Amanda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Some interesting stitch patterns I want to try especially the crochet-esque ones, others are a bit weird. Most of the actual garment/ accessory patterns not my style except one of the cardigans.

[Kathleen · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book begins with a bunch of different stitch patterns that can be used to make scarves that look good on both sides. They all looked really involved and complicated and I'm not sure that I would be into knitting something like that. The later part of the book is made up of knitting projects that are reversible. Most of them I wasn't too interested in. But there are two pretty bizarre sock patterns that I am kind of excited about. They're interesting socks. And I didn't really think socks could be interesting.

[Stacey · Rating 3 out of 5]

I love the innovative stitch patterns in this book. I plan to knit a swatch of the ones that inspire me. I would love to meet other knitters using this book too... I'm on stitch pattern #10 and am stuck!

[Heywu · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great Book. I would purchase this book. I plan to knit the cover design, "reverse me". A fresh look at design elements.

[Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very good book. I love the new stitches and patterns especially the "flip your lid" beanie!

[Jaq · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lovely book to read and for the knitter, it's great to see these stitches well photographed and explained.

[Serra · Rating 4 out of 5]

The stitch patterns themselves were mediocre (some of them seemed contrived rather than actually usable) but the description of non-mirrored double knitting at the end of the book was very helpful.

[Mckinley · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting idea and patterns. Nothing I'll be knitting.
(Have this.)

[Phearsa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really awesome patterns and designs (:

[M2t2 · Rating 3 out of 5]

Great hat called flip your lid!