Works by
Pam Allen
(Writer)

• Knitting for Dummies (2002)
  Knitting is a relatively simple process requiring a minimal set of tools – two needles and a ball of yarn. Its basic structure of interlocking loops couldn't be less complicated. Yet the possibilities for design and pattern innovation seem endless. Now is a great time to learn to knit. Never before have you had so many lovely and imaginative yarns from which to choose and so many stylish and sophisticated patterns to work with.

• Scarf Style: Innovative to Traditional, 31 Inspirational Styles to Knit and Crochet (2004)
  This collection of 31 elegant and ingenious scarf designs tap the expertise of more than 25 knitwear designers who offer new ways to think about this most basic of garments. Designs by Kathryn Alexander, Debbie Bliss, Nancy Bush, Lily Chin, Nicky Epstein, Sasha Kagan, Sally Melville, and Kristin Nicholas are included, representing a varied exploration of techniques that provide innovative ways to think about knitting and crochet. Sections on knitting and crochet basics, making a scarf without a pattern, and a designer's notebook with templates for basic scarves and suggestions for design variations are provided.

• Knitting & Crocheting for Dummies (2005) with Karen Manthey and Susan Brittain
  This book has great projects for people who have no idea how to knit or crochet. With easy to read instructions, anyone can pick up knitting and crocheting, and make some fun projects, even as a beginner.

• Wrap Style: Innovative to Traditional, 24 Inspirational Shawls, Ponchos, and Capelets to Knit and Crochet (2005) with Ann Budd
  This contemporary collection of wraps showcases the work of 18 knitwear designers that include Lily Chin, Nicky Epstein, and Jo Sharp. The designs for these ponchos, capes, stoles, and capelets vary from simple to challenging and explore shape and silhouette possibilities in a host of techniques, including stitch patterns, color work, lace, beads, crochet, and felt. A glossary is provided, containing all the information necessary for even a novice knitter to successfully create one-of-a-kind fashions. The book also includes an in-depth section on designing and embellishing, making it a companion for future creativity. All knitters and crocheters, from the most demanding to those just embarking upon larger projects, will be inspired by these stylish designs that stretch the definition of a poncho.

• Lace Style: Traditional to Innovative, 21 Inspired Designs to Knit (2007 release) with Ann Budd
  From runways to department stores, lace is everywhere and knitters are picking up their needles to chase the trend. Lace Style takes a fresh approach to this classic theme by combining solid techniques with 20+ contemporary projects.

  Following the success of Scarf Style and Wrap Style—with more than 100,000 copies sold— we’ve selected a stunning collection of quick knits that take a modern twist on a traditional pattern. Accomplished designers including Vëronik Avery, Norah Gaughan, Annie Modesitt, Shirley Paden and Michele Rose Orne will inspire with patterns ranging from scarves, shawls, hats, sweaters, dresses, and more.

  Revel in ways to use lace as allover patterns, trims and edgings, and inserts. Innovative designs include a lace pattern typically used for baby wear boldly translated into a striking woman’s scalloped jacket, a delicate lace edging used to accent a featherlight lingerie dress, a chic skirt made lacy with intentionally dropped stitches, a wide-brim garden hat with a decidedly vintage feel, a sophisticated bracelet knitted from fine silver wire, and much more.

  Each pattern has detailed step-by-step instructions and lavish lifestyle photographs with plenty of detail shots to keep readers inspired. A special design chapter demystifies the elements of knitted lace, and details several ways to achieve lacy effects. It also provides key pointers on how to incorporate lace motifs into other patterns and tips to ensure success.

  Whether you’re an experienced knitter looking for inspiration or a beginner trying lace knitting for the first time, Lace Style has everything you need to knit lace with confidence.

See also:

• Knitting in America (1996) by Chris Hartlove and Melanie Falick
  This book carries on the tradition of Ann L. Macdonald's No Idle Hands: The Social History of American Knitting (1988) in a somewhat more personal vein. Falick, herself a knitter, spent one-and-a-half years exploring studios, galleries, yarn shops, farms, festivals, and museums. In the process, she got to know a virtual "underground movement" of knitters for whom the craft is closer to a way of life than a simple pastime, including such luminaries as Deborah Newton, Meg Swansen, Nancy Bush, Norah Gaughan, Pam Allen, and Priscilla Gibson-Roberts. Each was asked to create an original project for this book. Falick's interviews with these knitters are marvelous, the more than 30 projects interesting and challenging. The only caveat is the number of well-known knitters Falick had to leave out. Highly recommended for all collections.

• Crochet Your Way (2000) by Gloria Tracy and Susan Levin
  There are an estimated 30 million crocheters in the U.S. alone, from novices to artists. Crochet Your Way has something for everyone. A comprehensive guide, it starts with the basics through a quick review of 20 different pattern stitches. Each stitch includes clear technique tips with accompanying illustrations. When the 20 squares are completed, they can be joined together to create an original afghan. By emphasizing the concepts behind the craft as well as the practical aspects, Crochet Your Way also helps the enthusiast learn to crochet any pattern available. For those who already know how to crochet, the book will give them the tools they need to move to the next skill level. Included are more than 35 creative projects, including hats, sweaters, and home accessories, all illustrated with 275 photos and step-by-step drawings.