Construction Knitting uses clear visual aids to demonstrate modular exercises for practical and theoretical applications of hand, machine and digital knitting methods. While the idea of using geometric shapes for knitting is not new, Nikki Gabriel's development of construction knitting is a system designed for the user to be co-designer, so the book provides the tools for the reader to engage and transform the design to fit their individual needs and preferences. It is a useful visual reference guide for design students, professionals or hobby knitters.
The book is divided into three main sections; Knitting Techniques, Design Development, and a final section on Construction Knitting Projects. The first section covers a guide to knitting techniques for fabric structure and composition, yarn and fibre specifications, and illustrated explanations on methods of knitted handcraft, machine and digital processes, with photographed knitted swatches. The second section covers the methodology of Construction Knitting, accompanied by photographic and illustrated demonstrations of the step-by-step design process, theoretical design fundamentals and pattern-making based on this accumulative technique of garment making. A final section includes practical suggestions for creating designs, based on this model-building system using geometric shapes.
Construction Knitting is a creative approach to garment construction using a combination of both flat and drape patternmaking, while also demonstrating the design process through visual organisation. When combined with hands-on applications, this presents the logic of fundamental design principles in practice, covering some of the key learning criteria of textile design courses in the exploration of the relationships between textiles, garment and the body.