Ultimate Fair Isle Idea Book

I first discovered this book at my local public library branch. Once I checked it out and got it home, I knew this was not just another knitting book. This is an illustrated catalog of patterns that can be used by any knitter to create original garments using combinations of Fair Isle patterns.

The most useful aspect of this book by far is it's organization by number of stitches in each pattern repeat. If you want 16-stitch or 25-stitch patterns for a sweater front, turn to the appropriate section. If you need a smaller repeat of 4 or 6 stitches for socks or mittens, you will find plenty of options, too.

To combine designs with different stitch repeats, you will need to remember some math from your school days. Who remembers factor trees? I use them all the time. For example, the factors of 24 are: 1,24, 2, 12, 3, 8, 4, 6. So if I want to choose patterns for a hat that has 48 stitches (2 times 24) I can pick patterns with a repeat that is equal to any of the factors of 24.) I might choose a large pattern with a 12-stitch repeat and edge it with a narrow border that has a 4-stitch repeat, for example.

Even if you just want to use just one pattern, the other patterns in the book can be useful as color inspiration. I enjoy knitting projects with simple stitches and little shaping, but loads of color. The photographs are large and easy on the eye, so consider purchasing this idea book for your personal knitting library or as a gift for an avid knitter.

Video Demonstration of Two-Color Knitting

The following video, along with many others available on YouTube, can be helpful if you don't have personal access to an experienced knitter.