(MCT)

MCT

It isn't hard to find cool, contemporary knitting patterns, pattern publishers have gotten the message that knitting is hip. But knitting reference books, not so much. Most how-to-knit books, while perfectly serviceable, are a little bit stodgy. Fortunately, the tide may be turning: Two new reference books speak to the new generation of knitters in their own language.

"Knitspeak," by Andrea Berman Price (STC Craft, $19.95) is part knitting lesson, part secret decoder ring. It breaks down knitting pattern shorthand (CO 44 st. K1, p1 for 37 rows) in an alphabetical format, explaining what each abbreviation means and then briefly demonstrating how to go about it. It might be a stretch to teach yourself to knit from the book _ it's really more of a knitting dictionary than a how-to guide. But the language is clear and simple, and virtually every term you can think of it easy to find. "Knitspeak" is just the right size to stick in your knitting bag, so it's always at your fingertips.

"The Knitter's Book of Yarn," by Clara Parkes (Potter Craft, $30) delves into the wonderful world of fiber, beyond craft-store acrylic yarn to the many, many types available to today's knitter. Parkes explains how yarn is spun and dyed, and then offers patterns well-suited to each type of yarn she describes. Any knitter who has tried a new yarn with disastrous results will want to get her hands on this book. Plus, the patterns are fresh and interesting, and written by some of the best-known designers in the knit-world.

© 2007, McClatchy-Tribune Information Services.