The Art of Fair Isle Knitting

By Ann Feitelson

Book Overview

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... This description may be from another edition of this product.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1883010209
• ISBN13: 9781883010201
• Release Date: January 1996
• Publisher: Interweave
• Length: 184 Pages
• Weight: 2.08 lbs.
• Dimensions: 11.5" x 1.0" x 9.0"

Customer Reviews

Good addition to any knitter's library

I don't know how I missed this book in the past; a nice little book. Worth adding to knit-book stash. The book includes patterns, history, technique in colorful and clear presentation. (4/2006) Revisitng 10/26/2007. A very nice book. Just glancing through two tips: in yarn changes, knot and leave to felt (69), which is what I did with a sweater-of-many-colors; decide which way to carry light and dark colors and stick with it (58)-who knew? Gotta get this book. Well I bought this book and it is a very good addition just for tips on knitting in color even if I never make one of the actual sweaters. It's well organized and a great conpendium of practices I hadn't realized I just did and should actually mention to help other knitters.

Great information

The information on the use of color and pattern in fair isle is very useful; there are lots of color examples showing how the colors work in various ways. Good job on the history too with great illustrations. Only thing missing for me is charted designs to help design your own. Overall it's a great book and I'm using it already for a project.

An invaluable book on 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.

Fad or classic resurgent

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.

This is the best book available about Fair Isle knitting.

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.