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.
