Book excerpt: Betty Barnden's updated edition of 350+ Knitting Tips, Techniques, and Trade Secrets is a perfect gift for creative crafters. Give a stylish finish to your knitted garments and accessories with this essential compendium of knitting know-how. Over 350 tips, techniques, and secrets are explained and illustrated with clear step-by-step photographs and diagrams. Discover how to read patterns and charts, choose color and yarns, mix and match stitch patterns, and adapt designs for the perfect fit. All kinds of stitches abound, from stockinette stitch and ribbing, to lace, Fair Isle, cables, and intarsia work. This book explains all the techniques you’ll need in the order you’ll need them, from casting on and joining in yarns, to shaping, and adding buttonholes, pockets, and embellishments. Plus, “Try It” and “Fix It” panels suggest ways of practicing and developing new skills and avoiding or correcting common knitting errors.