There are a number of online knitting and crochet magazines available. The number is increasing, but the following is brief review of popular electronic publications.
Knitnet
This is a subscription magazine ($12 - $25 per annum) for six editions per year which includes patterns and articles. Each edition provides a small selection of patterns as well as book reviews and articles.
Twist Collective
This magazine has unusual navigation as it tries to work as a printed page publication, using right and left hand arrows to flick through the pages. This takes a little getting used to, as an advertisement page makes the reader think that they’ve clicked on an ad-link, rather than the next page of the magazine.
There is a problem page as well as a number of articles, some of which are very well illustrated. The patterns in the magazine are available to buy.
Inside Loop
This is a UK-based magazine, produced four times a year. It contains a variety of patterns, although the pictures on the patterns page only show stitch details. The reader has to click on each one to find out what the pattern is actually for. The articles are a mixture of informative and “personal experience” pieces and are well illustrated.
Knotions
Knotions is also produced quarterly and features a range of patterns for knitters of all abilities.There are also articles of interest to knitters. The only confusing part is that the techniques tips are on a separate tab and so not always easy to find. Once located however, they are clear and useful.
Popknits
This is more of a niche publication as it is for knitters of vintage items. However, it includes new patterns (vintage inspired). It’s a relatively new publication and, thus far, light on articles. There seem to be more patterns for accessories and small items, rather than full garments, but there is the ability to select pattern by type as well as by ability; a useful feature for the less experienced knitter.
Knitty
No review of online knitting magazines would be complete without a review of Knitty, the best known of them all. It is published four times per year and contains a range of patterns for knitters of all abilities. There is also a glossary of abbreviations, should it be needed.
The features are wide ranging and include tips and techniques which are well illustrated. Knitty has a quirky feel (patterns requiring a high level of skill and experience are labelled “extraspicy”) but it contains a great deal of information and has a loyal following.
There is a variety of knitting magazines available on line and so there should be something to suit every taste. If not, simply wait for a while, there’s bound to be another along soon!
