Knitch Magazine

Title:

Author: Trisha Malcolm

Date Published: November 2011

Review Date: October 24, 2011

Who is this book for?

Part birthday card and part biography, Vogue Knitting: Classic Patterns from the World’s Most Celebrated Knitting Magazine is an homage to Vogue Knitting on its 30^th anniversary. Reflecting the enormous reputation of the magazine, this oversized book hefts about 5 pounds.

More just another coffee table book, Vogue Knitting: Classic Patterns is a detailed retrospective of the remarkable evolution of knitting over the past 30 years. Presenting over 80 complete patterns gleaned from past issues of Vogue Knitting magazine, it is certain to appeal to knitters who esteem the high style and impeccable craftsmanship that denotes “Very Vogue” fashion.

It is also a close look at the history of the modern knitting and the contributions of designers, editors, photographers, writers, technology and even advertisers. Using a biographical setup, Classic Patterns looks back over 30 years of publishing history to trace the development of Vogue Knitting magazine and knitting. As it follows fashion history and the innovations in pattern writing, illustration, photography, and technology, readers are introduced to the many talented individuals who influenced the sustained growth and extraordinary burst of innovation that has made knitting one of the most popular crafts today.

Most knitters are familiar with a handful of big-name designers through their books and columns, many of whom were featured in Vogue Knitting. Classic Patterns chronicles the role of “back-room” contributors like technical editor Carla Scott, photographer Jack Deutsch and editor Trisha Malcolm. Partnerships with other publishers, designers and smart application of social media are also described along with how they continue to advance the knitting scene. As Vogue Knitting looks forward, it re-dedicates itself to the role of inspiring and educating knitters. Using the first 30 years as a predictive tool, we can be confident that knitting will continue to flourish.

What Yarn Does it Feature?

The role of yarns and yarn companies is described along with the history of knitting fashion. Some are completely unique, like the sustainable possum fur yarn from New Zealand used in the Cabled Swing Poncho featured in the Holiday 2010 issue. Earlier issues explored what were then unique fibers. In 1983, the Spring/Summer issue focused on silk, cotton and linen. Presaging the fascination with finding traditional yarns in their places of origin, the Fall 1994 issue focused on native Shetland islander Alice Starmore and traditional Shetland wools. The use of super-chunky yarns is not a recent event; VK previewed it in the of Fall 1999 with the stunning Retro Coat. Revamped to use yarns from Filatura di Crosa/Stacy Charles, it is still stunning.

What's Inside

Classic Knits reflects on 30 years of knitting fashion history by presenting 80 iconic designs from every era. Vintage patterns from the 1980’s, Favorite Styles from the 1990’s and Modern Classics from the 2000’s are reprinted from the original issues with the fashion shot and pattern instructions. A short essay describes each project, highlighting why it was chosen and the impact it has had on advancing knitting. Other innovations from each era are also described so that, when these reviews are read in sequence, a fascinating history of knitting unfolds.

Using It

Classic Knits uses the same organizational format as Vogue Knitting magazine. It opens with a technical discussion (here it is the history of VK magazine) followed by fashion shots of featured patterns with detailed instructions, schematics and charts at the back. A small reproduction of the magazine cover closes the pattern instructions. Longtime subscribers will recognize these covers, and may even have the original in their collections. The featured patterns represent all skill ranges. Several are “very easy, very vogue”, but challenging designs are included, too. The range of patterns represents the skill and craftsmanship of devoted VK readers as well as its appeal to developing knitters.

Best Pattern

In the 1985 Fall/Winter issue, Vogue Knitting explored the concept of knitting one design with different yarns. The Lace Leaf Sweater was shown knit in a silky rayon tape, alpaca wool blend and mohair. The fabulous design looked just as gorgeous in each yarn, and yet all were distinctly different, expressing a different mood and look. VK continues to explore what is possible in knitting, encouraging knitters to go beyond simply copying designer patterns. This is but one device the editors used to inspire knitters to be their best.

Extreme fashion pushes our thinking and sometimes takes a while to catch on. The gold knitted bikini from the summer of 2011 is a case in point. While not a project for every knitter, the short row shaping, knit in hem, and finishing details reflect a knitting public with advanced skills and the confidence to be able to knit to exacting fit requirements. Moreover, this project was chosen as an example how VK inspires knitters to see what is possible with knit fabric. “This marriage of high-fashion inspiration and DIY practicality is what has set Vogue Knitting apart for the past thirty years.”

Recommendation

Vogue Knitting: Classic Patterns from the World’s Most Celebrated Knitting Magazine will appeal to knitters who are fascinated by history of knitting and who honor those who taught them the craft of knitting. Along with a treasure trove of classic knitting patterns, this book is an informative history of the modern knitting era and one you can’t get anywhere else, even if you did save every issue of Vogue Knitting since its launch in 1982.

Overall Recommendation

Not just another coffee table book, Vogue Knitting: Classic Patterns from the World’s Most Celebrated Knitting Magazine is a must have and a must read. I rate it #10.