The Art of Fair Isle Knitting: History, Technique, Color & Patterns [Paperback]

Ann Feitelson (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: April 1, 2009

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 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.

Editorial Reviews

Review

"This book is a Fair Isle bible, covering the techniques involved (stranding, weaving in and steeks), the history of Shetland and Fair Isle knitting, and a masterclass on colour combining. The patterns are lovely, and the colour combinations precise. It's a must-have for every serious Fair Isle knitter." - The Knitter

About the Author

Ann Feitelson conducts Fair Isle knitting workshops throughout Massachusetts and has been published in Knitter’s magazine and Interweave Knits. She lives in Montague, Massachusetts.

Product Details

• Paperback: 184 pages
• Publisher: Interweave Press (April 1, 2009)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1596681381
• ISBN-13: 978-1596681385
• Product Dimensions: 10.9 x 8.4 x 0.5 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.5 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.5 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (21 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #312,398 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

66 of 68 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars This is the best book available about Fair Isle knitting., April 2, 1999

By A Customer

This review is from: The Art of Fair Isle Knitting (Hardcover)

Ann Feitelson brings together, in great detail, everything you will ever need to know about Fair Isle. If you want to design your own or knit one of the many gorgeous designs she presents, or even just get to know the Shetland way of life, you must read this book. There may be other Fair Isle experts, but Ann is truly the master.

31 of 31 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars An invaluable book on Fair Isle and Shetland knitting, May 6, 2006

By 

J. Kaya "yarn freak" (USA) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: The Art of Fair Isle Knitting (Hardcover)

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.

41 of 43 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Fad or classic resurgent, January 19, 2006

By 

bernie "xyzzy" (Arlington, Texas) - See all my reviews
(VINE VOICE)    (COMMUNITY FORUM 04)    (TOP 1000 REVIEWER)    (HALL OF FAME REVIEWER)   

This review is from: The Art of Fair Isle Knitting (Hardcover)

At this time it looks as though the art of Fair Isle is making a huge comeback. Books that are out of print are selling for ten times the original price. Old magazines are being sought in every nook and cranny. Newer yarns are now colored to automatically create Fair Isle color patterns.

This particular book was written by Ann Feitelson who spent considerable time on the Shetland Islands and short of being a native is the closes you will get to the History, Technique, and Color & Patterns in the art of Fair Isle Knitting.

This book is more than just patterns; yet there are some classics of socks, gloves, mittens, scarves, and mostly swatters. The real worth that makes this book stand out from the others is the history with pictures in monochrome and color.

You may have to learn a few new terms:
Needles = Wires
Cast On = Lay on
Stitch = Loop

A few of the garments also have different names. But their purpose is unmistakable.

This book besides being practical is a great addition to any library.