Product Description
Although diyers have been using salvaged materials for years, the fastest growing trend in knitting and crochet takes reduce-reuse-recycle to a whole new level. In "Alt Fiber", craft author and teacher Shannon Okey presents 25 patterns for sweaters, wraps, socks, hats, pillows, bags, and more using non-allergenic plant fibers. From the seaweed-derived Seacell yarn, which transmits vitamins and nutrients to the skin when worn, to soy-based yarns made from tofu manufacturing waste, alternative fibers are readily available, easy to care for, and good for the environment. And because these fibers work up, drape, and wear like no other yarns. Knitting green has never been so easy.

CUSTOMER REVIEWS (Average Customer Rating: 4.0 based on 2 reviews)

needs more photos

This is a good book with some really nice patterns that use alternate, more eco friendly fibers. There's a pretty good variety of yarns used in this book, and a variety of patterns. However ... many of the projects don't have very good photos. The photos are lovely, but often don't show very well what the finished product will look like. There are a couple of patterns for sets (shell, cardigan, and skirt) that barely show the skirt at all. Also, some schematics would be nice, but are lacking.
Overall I'd recommend this book if you are looking for patterns that use fibers like bamboo, hemp, seacell, corn, etc. Some of the smaller patterns (like the really cute socks) are a great way to begin experimenting with these lovely yarns.
November 25, 2008

"Alt Fiber" review from an advanced beginner knitter

I give this book a "thumbs up" for "green knitting". This book offers a variety of projects (easy to complicated) and all for non-wool yarns. There are very few books which offer non-wool patterns and it is a entire project within itself to try to convert a wool project (calling for wool yarn) into a non-wool project (using cotton, bamboo etc.) I enjoyed the abbreviation list for crochet and knitting on the front and back cover- very helpful at times. The introduction taught me a few things (good information!) and it was enjoyable to read. I like to try new patterns to stretch what I have learned so far in knitting and this book will help me to achieve a new skill or two. The patterns seem to be well written and offer suggestions for linings and extras like pattern and yarn notes to assist the reader as they work- good idea. I will enjoy the creativity I hope to see from this book to my hand work. thanks to Shannon Okey!
October 05, 2008

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