Knitch Magazine

Title: Knitting Beyond the Edge: The Essential Collection of Decorative Finishes

Author: Nicky Epstein

Date Published: Paperback Edition September 2011

Review Date: September 7, 2011

Who is this book for?

Knitting Beyond the Edge is the third of Nicky Epstein’s acclaimed edge series to be released in paperback. This volume is devoted to essentials of finishing: cuffs, collars, necklines, corners, edges and closures. Knitters of every skill level will find clever adaptations to traditional edges. There are over 150 suggestions for decorative flourishes that can turn a basic garment into stunning one-of-a-kind designs. Since Beyond the Edge first published in 2006 there has been a huge growth in popularity of cowls, wristlets and muffatees. Many of the edges suggested for necklines and cuffs can be used for these purposes and this book is filled with design ideas easily adapted to fashionable stand-alone accessories. More than a basic pattern dictionary, Knitting Beyond the Edge includes instructions for 5 sumptuous projects and a tutorial on altering and fitting necklines, including answers to that scary question, “How many stitches should I pick up?”

What Yarn Does it Feature?

Like the other books in the edge series, Nicky Epstein cannot stop with just one idea; she innovates in a serial manner. Starting with simple rib flaps, she transforms a basic neckline and then devises six more ways to vary the rib flaps. Each version gives a different look to a basic jewel neckline. She goes beyond basic edgings using beads, bobbles, ribbons, flowers, embroidery, buttons, and pom poms. By following the progression of designs, readers can gain insight into the creative process and see how small changes can make a big impact in the final design. A straight fold hem is transformed first by adding lace, beads or fur. Change the cast off edge from ribbing to rolled edge to transform a collar.

Using It

Best Pattern (or Best Advice)

There are nuggets of information sprinkled throughout this book, making it an excellent reference for general knitting. Among them, four versions for knitting mitered corners are displayed along with excellent shots that show how each is different. Two are used with garter stitch and two are used with stockinette stitch. Miters are used in top down knitting and in mosaic knitting, and this page is an excellent tutorial on choices for making a neat mitered increase. Study these methods to determine which you prefer so that the next time you encounter a miter, you can be the master of design. The chapter on closures is fascinating. Cables, texture and bobbles are used to camouflage buttonholes. In many of these bands, the button serves as a decorative finis. Frogs, decorative tabs and I-cord are also featured. Any one or several of the suggestions can be used to add flair to your knitting.

Recommendation

If you are eager to absorb all you can about technique, design and the endless variety possible in knitting, this book should be on your shelf. Even those knitters who are content to follow patterns as written frequently need to alter some aspect of commercial designs to get the best look for them. With this book, changes are easily made. You can substitute a boat neck for a more flattering V-neck or add a shawl collar. If your figure is not shown at its best by tight ribbing at the waist, substitute a graceful band of looped or twisted cords, or any of the many edges suggested. Do you have long or short arms? There are multiple cuff treatments to create the illusion of a more graceful length. Keep Knitting Beyond the Edge in your library as creative inspiration and a technical resource.

Overall Recommendation

If you missed the original hardcover edition, don’t hesitate to obtain this valuable knitter’s resource. Knitting Beyond the Edge earns a hearty #10 endorsement.