Medieval-Inspired Knits: Stunning Brocade & Swirling Vine Patterns with Embellished Borders

by Anna-Karin Lundberg

Inspired by the dramatic murals in the medieval churches of the province of Uppland, Sweden, this collection of colorful knitwear projects is sure to challenge and reward experienced knitters. Whirling botanical details, three-dimensional patterns, and embellished borders combine in a sumptuous collection of sweaters, vests, hats, and mittens in sizes for adults and children. With clearly presented instructions and color photographs of both the completed designs and the paintings, panels, and tapestries that inspired them, the stunning results of these patterns are complete with button details, creative edgings, flattering profiles, and finishing touches that are reminiscent of the tunics and robes commonly worn in the Middle Ages.

Genres: Knitting, Nonfiction, Crafts

128 pages, Hardcover

First published December 1, 2012

Reviews

[Tam G · Rating 4 out of 5]

Beautiful motifs based on the art of 14th century Swedish churches. Fascinating how many of them are based on patterns on the clothing of the saints. Good photos of the church-art-inspiration.

I'm not sure if I'd make the sweaters as-is. Almost all are somewhat boxy pullovers and I only make cardigans. However, I loved all of the motifs and would love to incorporate them elsewhere.

[Claire · Rating 5 out of 5]

Five stars for sheer brilliance and beauty of the designs, but tbh I wouldn't wear anything as wildly patterned as these knits as full sweaters. I would make most of these patterns as accessories because the designs are so busy.

[Cameron Toney · Rating 4 out of 5]

Gorgeous, indicate patterns.
This is one of those books where I am dazzled by the artistry of it, though I don't think I'll knit anything in it for myself.

[Varina · Rating 4 out of 5]

The patterns are absolutely stunning knitted adaptations of frescoes from Medieval Swedish churches, with clear instruction targeted on the intermediate to advanced knitter. I also appreciated the information outlining the history of Medieval fresco painting in Sweden, and the beautiful pictures which accompanied it. My only qualm is the very limited size range (many patterns only come in one size), which makes it perhaps better as a source of inspiration/color-work charts than a pattern book per se.

[Jane · Rating 3 out of 5]

The colorwork in this is gorgeous. However, the construction and shaping for most of the sweaters seems very similar, and if you aren't in the mood for steeking (I'm not), your choices are limited. I would definitely revisit this in the future, though, if I want to steek or adapt the patterns to another project.

[Mollie *scoutrmom* · Rating 4 out of 5]

Stunning designs and the frescoes from which they were derived. All projects are advanced intermediate to challenging, the easiest would be the lace scarf. Mostly fair isle, some cables, some intarsia, some embroidery.

I found it at my public library, dewey decimal 746.432 K962

Fun to salivate over even if you never begin any.

[Cayenne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fascinating, gorgeous book. Lundberg takes frescoes from medieval Swedish churches and turns them into beautiful stranded Colorwork sweaters. I was blown away by the beautiful designs and colors. Even if you don't knit, this book is worth a look.

[Mary Good · Rating 3 out of 5]

Pattern book. Small size ranges. Info on steeks interesting but sketchy. Enjoyed the development of patterns from inspiration.

[Sherri · Rating 3 out of 5]

Neat interpretation by the author of pattern/color based on Swedish church paintings.

[Jaq · Rating 3 out of 5]

Beautiful patterns, but I'm at a loss about two ply yarn!!! Still it's one of those books that I liked looking through, but would not knit from.....

[Mckinley · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lovely but I don't think I'd wear any.