“Going Green” has gone from being a buzzword to a way of life for many people. Why should your knitting be any different? In Alt Fiber, Shannon Okey introduces knitters to truly different fibers. We are not talking about buffalo or alpaca hair.

All of the projects in this book are knitted with organic plant fibers. Some, like hemp, lyocell, linen, corn fiber, and bamboo, many people will be familiar with. But there are a number of other, far more esoteric fibers introduced here: pineapple fiber, seacell, nettle, agave, banana, milk fiber, and more. This book gives a clear introduction to all these off-beat fibers. There is even good advice on choosing environmentally conscious dyes for you spinners. Many of these fibers are not just sustainable - some transfer important minerals into your skin; others help draw moisture away from your skin.

The patterns in this book are specifically designed for the unique properties of these alt fibers, which (according to the book) are often softer and more slippery than the standard wool and acrylic that most knitters are familiar with. But just because these yarns are “green” doesn’t mean you have to look like a hippie.

The Avery Jacket is long and sleek, more boho chic than earth mama. The Fern Tee is easy to wear with a beautiful lace-eyelet back. The Bow Tank has a large knitted “ribbon” tied into a bow along the neckline. The Midnight Lace Stole is long and delicate. The Phoenix Quick Wrap uses drop stitches to create a sophisticated wrap that can be knit up in a weekend. The De Fleur socks have a beautiful, twisted cable design that is not for the novice socker.

My one complaint is that the photos are lacking. Many projects, like the Fern Tee, only offer one photo. In the case of the Fern Tee, it is a shot of the back of the piece – I have no idea what the front looks like. But overall, Alt Fiber is a unique book, perfect for knitters looking to go beyond wool and acrylic.