Math for Knitters by Kate Atherley [PREORDER]

Do you end up avoiding patterns because they don’t exactly match your yarn or measurements? This book is your key to pattern freedom! Math for Knitters is a practical guide that transforms intimidating knitting calculations into simple arithmetic anyone can master.

Finally understand what gauge really means and how to work with it when yours doesn’t precisely match the pattern. Learn to confidently substitute yarns without running short or wasting money. Customize garments to fit your unique body by making strategic alterations.

I approach this book just like I do with my sold-out classes: I break down complex concepts into bite-sized, approachable pieces.

• Yarn Substitution Made Simple – Calculate yardage, convert measurements, and never run short of yarn again
• Gauge Demystified – Master the most crucial knitting concept with clear guidance
• Pattern Customization – Modify any pattern for perfect fit and personal style, and learn when it’s best to choose a different pattern instead
• Garment Alterations – Adjust length, shaping, and sizing without complex math
• No Advanced Math Required – Just basic arithmetic using everyday tools

No more skipping patterns because they don’t come in your exact size or settling for garments that don’t fit quite right. With clear examples and straightforward methods, you’ll gain the skills to adapt appropriate patterns to your needs—and identify when it’s time to look for a different pattern better suited to what you want.

The best part? You only need basic arithmetic—no complex math required! Whether you’re a beginner ready to move beyond the basics or an experienced knitter wanting more control, this book will transform your crafting experience. 

Kate Atherley is a best-selling author, Knitty.com’s Managing Technical Editor, and a seasoned designer and teacher of all things knitterly.

She has written ten books, and was the editor/curator of an eleventh.

Math for Knitters NEW October 2025 is the culmination of 25 years teaching knitting is your key to pattern freedom! It’s a practical guide that transforms intimidating knitting calculations — everything from the basics of figuring out yardage to complex garment alterations — into simple arithmetic anyone can master.

Custom-Fit Hats is a recipe for making the perfect fitting hat, for any head, from any yarn.

Custom Shawls is a full guide to everything shawls: from recipes for 20+ shawl shapes, a primer on on key techniques, a discussion of yarn and fibre and fabric, 13 patterns, and ideas and stitch patterns for creating your own.

The Knitter’s Dictionary, is an easy-to-use and friendly guide to the language of knitting. A reference book and a guide to pattern reading all in one, it covers topics from Gauge to Yarn Barf. It received a starred review in Publisher’s Weekly.

‘Knit Mitts: Your Hand-y Guide to Knitting Mittens and Gloves‘, released in fall 2017, brings the same any-size-any-gauge approach as used in Custom Socks to hand coverings of all kinds. The first printing sold out in record time.

‘Custom Socks: Knit to Fit Your Feet‘ was released summer 2015 by Interweave Press, to great acclaim. It takes a different approach than many sock books, teaching you how to measure your feet and providing numbers for working both toe-up and top down socks for 12 sizes and 9 gauges.

Her ‘Beginner’s Guide to Writing Knitting Patterns’ book is the industry’s first guide specifically written to help knit designers (and teachers) of all levels create easy-to-follow, high quality knitting patterns. It’s been called a “game-changer” and a “must-have” by designers and magazine editors.

She’s known for her attention to detail in her patterns and her classes, and she regularly teaches at stores and events across North America and the UK, including Vogue Knitting Live, Unravel and Knit City. Her work has appeared in many books and magazines.

Kate lives in Toronto with her husband and their rescue dog, Winnie.