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In
preparation for some multi-color knitting, I ordered this book and
have found it to be a treasure of information. Starmore begins by
giving a brief history of the Shetland Isles, one of which is Fair
Isle. She discusses the existing theories of the origins of Fair
Isle knitting, and continues the discussion with her own theory, which
is very convincing and brilliant in my opinion. She ends the
history chapter with the current state of the knitting industry in
Shetland. Subsequent chapters include Pattern, Color, and
Technique, all of which are filled with interesting tidbits on the use
of the elements of Fair Isle knitting. Each of these chapters
also include
explanations on the "rules" of Fair Isle knitting with
regard to the design elements (pattern, color, technique).
In the chapter Pattern, she discusses different types of borders,
peeries, seeding, and large Fair Isle Patterns,
to name a few. There is even a Pattern Library taken from her
own personal collection. In the chapter Color,
she discusses basics and shows examples of nature-inspired
color/pattern work. She is a gifted photographer as
well as knitter/designer, and the pictures are beautiful. The
Technique chapter includes the cable-edge cast on,
directions for [two-handed] stranded knitting, and the basics of both
Continental and English methods. Other topics include increases
and decreases using patterning, steeks, buttonholes, and joining.
Finally,
the rest of the book is filled with patterns for men, women, and
children; they are mostly ganseys, but a tammy,
mitten, and glove set is also included. The diagrams for the
basic gansey and cardigan plans are wonderfully explained. If you
don't have much experience knitting garments, you will find these
instructions clear and logical. If you have knitted sweaters and
other garments, you will appreciate the information about traditional
Shetland circular knitting and sweater construction. Throughout the
book, Starmore conveys the qualities associated with the women who
originated Fair Isle knitting--hard-working, persevering, practical,
and emphasizes how the character of the Shetland people flows into the
character of their craft. This is perhaps the most valuable
point I take from her book. Starmore's writing and instructions are
clear and very understandable. What a wonderful book! |