Penland School of Crafts has been in existence for over 75 years. In 1965 glass was introduced. This book, The Penland Book of Glass – Master Classes in Flamework Technique
s, profiles 10 exceptional artists whose specialty is lampwork also known as torchwork. With each artist profile they have provided a “hands on” section that takes you through a tutorial. Amazing. These are artists that are the best at what they do sharing their knowledge and expertise at the torch. I know I’m gushing about this book but it is warranted. As well as the profiles there are gallery sections that offer up an abundance of inspiration for anyone that works at a torch or have thought about trying it. I can’t recommend this book more. It’s truly a joy to look through.
Have you read?
Book Review: Knit Modern Scandi Sweaters
Scandinavia is known for its sweaters, which usually include colorwork and are worked in muted colors of wool yarn. They’re nothing if not traditional, so giving that garment a modern twist is a fun approach.
Marita Clementz said in her book Knit Modern Scandi Sweaters that she wanted bolder, more colorful designs inspired by nature.
The book opens with a brief overview of needed supplies (plus the yarn she used to make her sweaters, which may be difficult to find in other countries), a discussion of yarn weigh, increasing or decreasing evenly across a project, color dominance, sizing and ease and general sweater construction. All of the garments are worked in the round from the top down, and several include short rows at the neck. She also talks about reading and adjusting charts.
The patterns follow, with lots of pictures and a large copy of the chart. Some of my favorites include Anemone, covered all over with large flowers that remind me of the 1960s; Lofoten, which features colorwork diamonds and is shown in three different colorways with three neckline options; and the cheerful zig-zagged Svalbard, inspired by the mountains and midnight sun of the island of Spitsbergen. I’m not finding the book on Ravelry as I write this but you can see some of the patterns in the preview on Amazon, linked above or the publisher’s website, linked below.
There are lots of floral motifs and geometric designs, and the patterns don’t do a ton of hand holding, so it would be good if you’ve knit a few sweaters before you try these. The skill ratings are on a scale of one to five: six are rated three, four are four and two are level five. (None are rated one or two.)
All the designs have seven sizes, which range in chest circumference from 34 to 53 inches, or 85 to 133 cm. Garments are shown on young adults and men and women (all the author’s family I think).
This book is a lot of fun if you like bold, colorful designs and cozy sweaters with a Scandinavian flair.
About the book: 128 pages, paperback, 12 patterns. Published 2025 by David & Charles. Suggested retail price $24.99.