Rita Taylor is a self-taught knitter who has been designing for more than twenty-five years. She has designed for yarn companies and several publications, including top knitting magazines such as Knit Now and The Knitter, and is keen to pass on her knowledge to others so that they can continue to promote this long established and practical skill. She has a degree in history and has spent many years researching the traditional and social aspect of knitting from all parts of the world. Two of her previous books, Aran Design and Scandinavian Knitwear, were also published by The Crowood Press.