I borrowed the original edition, not the Schoolhouse version. Standard charted patterns and then outrageously wonderful designs like the spider. UGH! I can't wait to give him a try. Good designs for all skill levels. ( )

Charted Knitting Designs is the third knitting reference by Barbara G. Walker. Although it does include some patterns contributed by her readers (and acknowledged by name), in this volume Walker began an almost mathematical exploration of knitting combinations. Most of the patterns in this volume are of Walker's own design. As the title of the book indicates, Walker charted out the patterns on grids. At the time (1972) it was not common in the United States of America to graph stitch patterns; rather, patterns were written out line by line. Walker developed her own system for graphically representing stitches which she explains quite clearly in the introductory pages.

Slip-stitch, or Mosaic knitting patterns figure prominently in this volume. Mosaic knitting is generally done with at least 2 colors, although some slip-stitches do result in interesting monochromatic textures. With 2 color slip stitching, 2 rows are knit with color A and 2 rows with color B. Stitches of the opposite color are pulled (or slipped) up from a lower row. Again, Walker provides a very clear explanation of this knitting technique.

Chapter 1 is devoted to textured fabrics.
Chapter 2 covers twist stitch patterns. They are, in a sense, very simple cable patterns, involving the twisting of one or two stitches. They can be executed without a separate cable holder.
Chapter 3 focuses on cable stitches.
Chapter 4 presents "Closed-Ring Designs in Cabling. If you've been looking for a textured Peace Sign, you will find it here.
Chapter 5 has Cable-stitch patterns.
Chapter 6 - lace.
Chapter 7, lace panels.
Chapter 8, Walker explores slip-stitch patterns, which she calls Mosaics.
Chapter 9 looks at Color patterns. Unfortunately, the photos accompanying each design are in black and white.
Chapter 10, "Uncharted Miscellany" .

The last chapter describes some possible projects using stitch patterns. Color photos accompany this section. The clothing and home decor certainly reflect the fashions of the early 70's when this book was published. There are some knitted lamp shades.that I don't think I'd want in my house, but she has some interesting modern tapestries.

All of the patterns have a b & w photo and charted instructions. Many patterns have, in addition to the charted instructions, line by line instructions as well. The number of stitches needed for a pattern is also indicated; in some cases this consists of a base number plus a once repeated number of stitches to accomplish decreasing and increasing. The base number is multiplied time the number of repeats of the pattern, and the extra number is added in only once.

Like all Walker's knitting volumes, this is a classic work that any serious knitting will want to own. ( )

I love that the patterns are charted. I wish all of them were now. ( )

Inspirational and a great reference, like all of Barbara Walker's knitting books. This one was written when charted knitting patterns were still uncommon in the US, although already in use in Asia. ( )