theraineysisters knitting and so much more

March 27, 2011

From Sally — A Quick Word about Japanese Patterns

Filed under: Updates — surly @ 1:26 pm

In comments to my post the other day about my Spring Snow cardigan (see below), several readers have asked where they can buy Japanese pattern books.  Although not available everywhere, they are getting easier to find.

I have seen (and occasionally purchased) Japanese patterns at various local yarn stores.  For example, I have seen them at Knit Purl (in Portland, Oregon); the Yarnery (St. Paul, Minnesota); and Skeins, Shuttles, and Spindles (Boulder, Colorado). So when in doubt, check your local yarn store — you might be surprised.

Another great online source is The Needle Arts Book Shop. Needle Arts carries books of both Japanese patterns and stitch collections, as well as guides on interpreting Japanese symbols. They also provide a free downloadable PDF on how to read Japanese patterns. I confess I just ordered two more Japanese pattern collections from them a few days ago!

As for the particular book that the cardigan I’m working on appeared in — I’m not sure whether that issue is still available.

4 Comments »

  1. I also like YesAsia. It sometimes takes a while to get the books, but otherwise I haven’t had any problem ordering from them.

    Comment by Cheryl S. — March 27, 2011 @ 2:44 pm

  2. Thanks so much for this valuable information. It’s exactly what I was looking for and you saved me a lot of time.

    I’ve been a “lurker” for quite some time but often refer other bloggers to your site to view your beautiful work. :>)

    Comment by Joansie — March 27, 2011 @ 9:29 pm

  3. I love-love-love Needle Arts Book Store! They also carry the Fiddlesticks (lace! big charts! numbers of k bet motifs!) patterns. But best of all, they give awesome customer service.

    Comment by Suzan — March 28, 2011 @ 8:02 am

  4. The Yarnery has a particularly good selection, I think, but I do believe I’m going to have to check out some of your other resources. Thanks!

    Comment by twinsetellen — March 28, 2011 @ 9:12 pm

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