Six Books to Quench Your Thirst for Knitting Miniatures

Knitivity: Create Your Own Christmas Scene by Fiona Goble (Andrews McMeel Publishing, LLC, $16.99) gives complete instructions for knitting all the participants in the manger scene -- including an ox, a donkey and two types of sheep. In addition to the patterns, plenty of technical information, including how to make the basic stitches and how to choose yarn, are included. And it doesn't stop there -- the book doubles as a storybook, telling the Nativity story along the way.

'Twas the Knits Before Christmas by Fiona Goble (Barron's Educational Series, Inc., $16.99) will help you bring to knitted life the classic Clement Clarke Moore tale, 'Twas the Night Before Christmas. Most of us know at least part of the tale by heart, and with this book, you can knit all the characters including the mom and dad, the baby boy and daughter, and of course, St. Nick himself. The seven reindeer are personalized with four styles of antlers and various eyes and smiles. Have lots of fun telling this knitted tale to your favorite young ones with this book complete with gifts and even the moon.

KnitWit: 20 Fun Projects for Beginners and Seasoned Knitters by Katie Boyette (Sellers Publishing, Inc., $18.95) is a collection of humorous, and yes, witty creatures. From Jacques "Crusteau" the big-eyed lobster to Vampiric Panda to monsters and other beings made from a great imagination, KnitWit has a creature for every fantasy. Abundantly illustrated with templates and process photos, this book all but guarantees success.

More KnitWits: 20 More Fun Projects for Those Who Love to Knit & Purl by Katie Boyette (Sellers Publishing, Inc., $18.95) presents more fanciful creatures for those who just can't get enough. Like its predecessor, KnitWit, this text is highly illustrated and easy to follow.

Teeny-Tiny Mochimochi: More Than 40 Itty-Bitty Minis to Knit, Wear, and Give by Anna Hrachovec (Potter Craft, $19.99) gives instruction for miniature creatures ranging from Tiny Chicken to Tiny Pear to Tiny Caveman and more. The finished figures all measure about 1 inch in height. You can pin them to your clothes or hang them from your key chain; you can even make a bunch and hang them from a charm bracelet. Detailed instructions include step-by-step photos and helpful explanations of special techniques.

Knit Your Own Royal Wedding by Fiona Goble (Andrews McMeel Publishing, LLC, $17.99) is just what the title promises. Although the wedding celebration of Kate and Prince William has passed, fascination with the royals remains. So, why not relive the moment with your own knitted wedding party? Included are the queen's beloved corgis.