Mindful Knitting: Inviting Contemplative Practice to the Craft

Rating:
Summary: Exactly what I hoped it would be - and more!
Review: I expected an explanation of how to bring Buddhist meditation practice into my knitting. That is there, and wonderfully explained. I'm already enjoying morning quiet time, with my knitting and just with breathing. As a newcomer to meditation, I am pleased with how easy it is to follow the instructions and how supportive the author is.

I didn't expect to love the projects so much! The book includes 10 projects that go from an extremely basic garter stitch scarf (perfect for the beginning knitter) through washcloths, a blanket and 2 hats for charity knitting, a simple cardigan (great first sweater for the new knitter), an aromatherapy tea cozy, a small evening purse, a lace scarf, a cabled jacket, and a baby layette. I ordered the book for the meditation instruction, not knitting instruction (I'm an intermediate knitter) and projects, but her instructions are wonderful - very clear and supportive, like the meditation instruction. And the projects! I often buy a book for the ONE thing I "must knit", but this book has 5 things I know I'll be making, starting with the little purse and the cabled jacket (and I'll probably do the organic baby layette at some point too).

This book was exactly what I was looking for, but it isn't for everyone. The focus is bringing meditation techniques to knitting, to make it a meditative practice for the knitter. If that idea appeals to you, you'll doubtless enjoy the book. If it doesn't, it's still a good project book for the beginning knitter, with projects that may or may not appeal to more advanced knitters.

Rating:
Summary: Knitting as Meditation
Review: This book is exactly what it purports to be...a wonderful mix of knitting and mindfulness meditation. I love it! Knitting is a craft handed down to me by my grandmothers. Mindfulness is somewhat newer, I needed help getting there. This book was perfect for me. Now knitting is more meaningful and feels great all the way through, not just at the end when I complete the project. Whether you are a new knitter or have been doing it for years, this book will help you get much more out of the click clack of the needles and the feel of the yarn...get it. You won't be sorry.