Knitting: colour, structure and design takes a fresh approach to knitting, examining not just the look of a knitted pattern, but how the knitted fabric can be altered with different stitches to change its stretch, drape and thickness. Once understood, the design and application potential of this textile technique is thrilling and endless. Written by a revered craftsman, this beautifully illustrated book encourages and inspires both experienced knitters and those new to the technique to have the confidence to experiment and develop their own designs. Topics covered: * Basic stitches, including many different ways of casting on and off, both decorative and functional * New approaches to construct fabric in an direction (not necessarily starting at the bottom and finishing at the top) in order to make any shape without sewn seams * An in-depth section on colour giving design ideas and techniques for knitting with colour * Advice on dyeing your own yarns, including decorative effects such as dip dyeing and tie-dyeing yarn * Knitting patterns to suit a range of body shapes, with directions for personalising these to your own requirements AUTHOR: Having trained in textile design and worked in textiles while bringing up her family, Alison Ellen began making knitwear in the 1980s and went on to teach short courses and textile groups. Inspired by her research into knitting history and technique, she wrote two knitting books, including the best selling Hand Knitting - New Directions. Alison sells her work through fairs and craft galleries. Direct contact with her customers has made a major contribution to how she designs for different body shapes. This book includes many of her classic designs, and comes from thirty years of experience designing and teaching the versatile technique of hand knitting. SELLING POINTS: * An in-depth look at the technique of hand knitting, what effects can be created from different stitches and the way knitting is constructed by knitting in different directions * Aimed at those new to knitting, as well as advanced experimental knitters * Examines the technique from scratch as if it were a completely new technique to encourage deeper understanding * Works through the basics to designing, including how to size your designs ILLUSTRATIONS: 247 colour photographs and diagrams