Basic Fair Isle Techniques ~ Sarah Peasley

Description

The Fair Isle technique has been around for centuries, but can be learned in a matter of hours. Learn to read charts like a pro. Practice knitting in the round with two colors while trapping those pesky floats. Discover the beauty of corrugated ribbing. Hold your breath while you cut open a crocheted steek. There’s nothing to it. What are you waiting for? See teacher bio.

Skill level 

Intermediate

Supplies Needed

• 1.75 oz (50 g) smooth, light-colored, worsted-weight yarn
• 1.75 oz (50 g) smooth, contrasting-colored, worsted-weight yarn
• US 7 (4.5 mm) 16" (40-cm) circular needle (measured from tip to tip)
• C (2.75 mm) crochet hook
• 7 stitch markers
• Sharp scissors

Homework

• Swatch #1: With CC, cast on 15 stitches. Work in stockinette stitch (knit RS rows, purl WS rows) for 3" (8 cm). Bind off.
• Swatch #2: With MC, cast on 69 stitches. Join without twisting to work in the round. Knit 4 rounds. Do not bind off. Do not cut yarn.

Techniques to Be Covered

• Discussion of traditional Fair Isle materials and construction
  
• Corrugated ribbing
  
• Using charts
  
• Two-handed Fair Isle knitting
  
• Discussion of dominant/recessive colors
  
• Trapping/catching floats
  
• Adding steeks
  
• Securing steeks
  
• Cutting steeks