Starsinherbelly

I got this book a couple of months ago when I had an amazon gift card windfall. So far I have knitted a couple of things from it, including an amazing woolly hat that my boyfriend laughs at   and tries to discourage me from wearing in public (- this only proves how fabulous it is!)

As you can see from the cover, Knitty Gritty is intended for absolute beginners and it does give instructions on how to knit, cast on, cast off and advice about equipment. There are also a lot of patterns for people who are knitting their first projects, as well as step-by-step guides to help you master more complicated techniques, such as cable stitches. As with most knitting books, there are a few slightly strange projects (knitted tie anyone?) but on the whole the items in this book are pretty wearable and include items for babies as well as lace-effect shawls and knitted cushion covers. 

This book is a really good buy for someone who has very basic knitting skills but has never made anything more complicated than a scarf.  I wouldn't suggest trying to learn how to knit using just this book as it is really hard to work out without watching knitting. If you don't know anyone who can teach you, try using YouTube videos, there are a zillion "how to knit" videos and it is so much easier to learn by watching than following written instructions. 

If you are lucky, I may even post some pictures of me modelling my wonderful hat. It makes me look a tad like a trainspotter...