The Very Easy Guide to Fair Isle Knitting: Step-by-Step Techniques, Easy-to-Follow Stitch Patterns, and Projects to Get You Started

by Lynne Watterson

Mastering Fair Isle knitting has never been easier! 
 
Fair Isle knitting may look complicated, but knitting expert Lynne Watterson lays out the basics in a way that is easy to follow and understand. She starts with an overview that covers everything from the best types of yarn suitable for Fair Isle patterns to beginner knitting techniques. Also included is a primer on how to read Fair Isle charts, plus an illustrated step-by-step guide to Fair Isle knitting showing complete beginners how to hold the yarns, strand across the back of knitting, link colors in, and how to weave in ends.

The main chapters feature a selection of beautiful Fair Isle stitch patterns. Each pattern contains clear instructions in both written and chart form, and these are cross-referenced to a comprehensive guide to abbreviations. A variety of simple, stylish projects included in each chapter demonstrates ways to use the beautifully shaded Fair Isle patterns—from chic accessories and the latest fashion looks to colorful cushion covers and cozy blankets. Bonus material offers a variety of stunning finishing touches that can be used to enhance your knitting—including beads, buttons, tassels, cords, fringe, and more.

Genres: Knitting, Crafts, Nonfiction, Reference

144 pages, Paperback

First published November 13, 2012

Reviews

[Bookworm · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a great book for those who are looking to get into knitting, which I myself have been.

"Knitting Fair Isle isn't as difficult as it looks and with this book I will guide you through the techniques so that you can enjoy knitting beautiful Fair Isle patterns as much as I do."
p.8, The Very Easy Guide to Fair Isle Knitting

I didn't even know what Fair Isle Knitting was until now and what it is is a traditional knitting technique that is used to create patterns with multiple colors. "Fair Isle" is actually a small island in the north of Scotland. You learn something new everyday!

This pattern book guides the crafter through the process of Fair Isle Knitting from start to finish. Twenty-eight lessons are included with step by step instructions to help the knitter master this technique. There are clear diagrams and photographs for reference. Patterns are included as well to put the techniques to good use.

Designer Lynne Watterson discusses different yarns types, how to read the labels, choosing colors, basic knitting stitches and gauge among other things that you will need to know while knitting.
"Shetland Wool is spun from the fleece of the native Shetland breed of sheep and is perfect for Fair Isle knitting. The fleece is soft and well crimped-the natural crimp helps the floats say in place."
p.10, The Very Easy Guide to Fair Isle Knitting

A Stitch Guide is included, with photos of all the swatches and the page you can find the patterns on for easy reference. There's also a lesson called Aftercare Essentials where Lynne Watterson discusses how to best care for you finished knitted items so that they will last for years.

[Ligaya · Rating 2 out of 5]

Decent book with an overview of knitting basics and it has a nice selection of knitted swatches but I found the projects lackluster and the color choices dull and outdated. There are better books on Fair Isle and this one is just okay.

[Victoria Mendes · Rating 4 out of 5]

The instructions seem easy to follow along with the diagrams. At some point I’ll be buying it to add to my collection instead of relying on it being available from the library. I’ve been much more afraid of colorwork than lace knitting, but now I’m feeling like it’s attainable.

[Deborah Tayler · Rating 5 out of 5]

Easy to follow patterns for finished items, and a good number of pattern grids so that you can create your own.

[Shannon · Rating 4 out of 5]

Some very cool patterns despite some very outdated-looking color choices for the swatches. It could use a touch more detail to be idiot-proof, but it is a neat idea book. (I speak from experience on needing more detail...I have knit one item in Fair Isle before, but it was in the round. When I attempted to knit a flat swatch, I habitually floated my yarn in the back...which is fine when you're working on the right side but not so great when you're working on the wrong side, lol.)

[Marilyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Do you know the difference between Fair Isle and Intarsia? Have you attempted either or both? This book will definitely help you with Fair Isle. It is very good and I think I may have discovered the solution to the ONE problem I have had in the past with this technique.

[Kim · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very helpful information on the Fair Isle stitches. Especially lesson 14 on weaving.

[Mckinley · Rating 3 out of 5]

Helpful. Stitch patterns. Motifs with some projects.