The Art of Fair Isle Knitting: History, Technique, Color & Patterns
by Ann Feitelson
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Description
Crafted with the precision of a Fair Isle garment, informed by accounts from the knitters themselves, and set firmly within its historical and sociological roots, this magnificent classic, first published in 1997, explores the heart of the knitting tradition from the tiny island north of Scotland. From the first small knitted items sold to fishermen and tourists in the 19th century and the highly fashionable androgynous sweaters of the 1920s to the large, starry Norwegian patterns popular show more after World War II and the hand- and machine-made yoked sweaters of the 1960s and 1970s, ardent dedication is applied to researching the history of each subject. Presenting 23 original Fair Isle designs, the guide leads knitters through the history of the Fair Isle knitting tradition in this examination of the style's techniques, explicating not only the unique colorways and patterns but also such valuable details as ways to hold the yarn. A chapter on calculating accurate sizes and patterns is easy to understand, while a glossary of Shetland knitting terms links a nearly-extinct way of life with the knowledge and skills that this volume hopes to preserve for generations of knitters to come. Conveying an unending sense of pride in the dedication of the Shetland knitters and in the creation of exceptional garments, knitters will be further enriched by journey's end. show lessTags
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Member Reviews
Knit colorful hats, gloves, and sweaters in the Shetland tradition.
This book is a classic. Ms. Feitelson starts off by laying out the history of Fair Isle knitting and progresses to technique and color theory. The patterns that she provided are beautiful in terms of fit and silhouette, not to mention color choices and pattern designs. I have knitted a few Fair Isle articles and I wish I had bought this book first before knitting my caps and socks. This book is a must-have for anybody wishing to embark on the wonderful journey of Fair Isle and Shetland knitting.
This book is a classic. Ms. Feitelson starts off by laying out the history of Fair Isle knitting and progresses to technique and color theory. The patterns that she provided are beautiful in terms of fit and silhouette, not to mention color choices and pattern designs. I have knitted a few Fair Isle articles and I wish I had bought this book first before knitting my caps and socks. This book is a must-have for anybody wishing to embark on the wonderful journey of Fair Isle and Shetland knitting.
This book includes a history of Fair Isle knitting, color photos of historic garments, and a discussion of Fair Isle color patterns. Approximately 20 patterns are included, along with color photos and color charts. Most of the patterns are based on or inspired by historic Fair Isle garments.
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Common Knowledge
- Canonical title
- The Art of Fair Isle Knitting: History, Technique, Color & Patterns
- Original publication date
- 1996
- Important places
- Fair Isle, Shetland, Scotland, UK; Shetland, Scotland, UK; Norway
- Dedication
- To the memory of Norman Feitelson, who looked and listened and worked carefully. To Henry Weis, with hopes that he may discover the same pleasures.
- First words
- I think of Fair Isle knitting as art, because it is inventive and beautiful, a rich accumulation of the ideas and experience of countless knitters.
Classifications
- Genres
- Home & Garden, Nonfiction, General Nonfiction, Art & Design, History
- DDC/MDS
- 746.43204320941135 — Arts & recreation Drawing & decorative arts Fashion Design / Weaving, Knitting, Embroidery Needlework and handwork Knitting, crocheting, tatting Knitting Standard subdivisions
- LCC
- TT819 .G72 .S3624 — Technology Handicrafts. Arts and crafts Handicrafts. Arts and crafts Home arts. Homecrafts
- BISAC
Statistics
- Members
- 555
- Popularity
- 53,161
- Reviews
- 3
- Rating
- (4.33)
- Languages
- English
- Media
- Paper, Audiobook, Ebook
- ISBNs
- 5
- ASINs
- 4
