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Title: Knitting in Tuscany
Author: Nicky Epstein
Date Published: 2009
Review Date: June 23, 2009
Who is this book for?
Knitting in Tuscany is the ultimate armchair escapism for knitters. Nicky Epstein guides her readers through four regions of Tuscany in this beautifully photographed book. Along the way she shares travel tips, recipes and 15 fabulous knitting designs inspired by Tuscan artifacts. Guided tours to exotic knitting regions are very popular among knitters, connecting them with the land and cultural history that gave rise to folk traditions. In this splendid book, Nicky takes us on a vicarious tour of the startlingly beautiful and culturally rich Tuscan countryside. Part travelogue, part guided tour and part project book, the focus in this book is all knitting. With Nicky’s guidance, we come to appreciate Tuscany’s enduring influence on textiles and fashion.
What Yarns does it Feature?
In keeping with the Tuscan theme, Italy’s premier wool and textile industry is reflected in the silk, cashmere, merino and other luxurious fibers chosen for the projects in this book. The yarns, all befitting of a Renaissance masterpiece, are readily available with several suppliers listed in the appendix. Yardage is supplied should you want to knit from your stash or make other substitutions as you experiment with Nicky’s exciting designs.
What’s Inside?
The 15 designs presented in this book are all inspired by cultural artifacts in Tuscany. Nicky’s felted wreath is an impressive rendition of Andrea della Robbia’s terra-cotta coat of Arms for the Wool Guild, a group credited as a guiding force behind the golden age of artistic activity known as the Renaissance. What better emblem to hang on your wall to proclaim your affinity with knitting? Other projects include a wrap reminiscent of the abundant hazelnuts found in the region, a vineyard-inspired silk hand bag, a pillow that replicates the Chianti Wine Producer’s Association symbol, a capelet fashioned after Tuscany’s cypress trees, and vests, scarves, shawls and jackets similarly reflecting this beautiful region. Among the many attractive projects in this book, Nicky’s crocheted medallion wedding dress is a knockout. If a wedding is not in your plans, consider a shorter version in black or a bronze for festive autumn and winter events.
Using It
The book is organized by the four regions of Tuscany. Each section includes a short travelogue plus suggestions for accommodations, sightseeing, shopping, and dining followed by knitting designs inspired by the region. You will find photos of Nicky knitting in the most unexpected places. Side trips include visits to a Chianti region cashmere farm, the Luigi Boldrini Yarn Mill in Florence, and the Pitti Filati trade show for the knitting industry. Nicky takes her readers on yarn crawls and cultural excursions, too. You can follow Nicky’s helpful advice to plan your own tour of Tuscany, or escape to dreams of sun, rolling Tuscan hillsides, leisurely meals and magnificent art as you read Nicky’s personal account. As Nicky guides you, she points out landmarks, summarizes history, offers travel tips, and finds inspiration in the countryside.
Best Pattern
The side visits to a cashmere farm, a textile mill, and Pitti Filati trade show give us a “members only” peek into the commercial world of knitting. Through photos and interviews, Nicky takes us inside the commercial yarn and knitting industry, and we share in her excitement for the privilege of peeking behind doors generally closed to the public.
Recommendation
Whether you want to celebrate your Italian heritage or want to indulge in a bit of escapism, this book will hold your interest on several levels. The beautiful photography, personal travelogue, and stylish projects in this book reflect the complex cultural heritage of Tuscany. You can’t know it better without travelling to the region. You’ll see how one of America’s top designers gathers inspiration for her designs by exploring and observing nature and art. Nicky Epstein’s style, like the Tuscan sun, is warm and nourishing. You will feel you traveled with her to Florence, Chianti, Siena, and Cortona. Knit one of the 15 Tuscan-inspired as a memento of your trip.
Overall Recommendation 
Overall, this book rates an “8”. You’ll have a tour of Tuscany to remember.
Where to buy Knitting in Tuscany: Yarnmarket.com
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