Book Review – Alice Starmore’s Book of Fair Isle Knitting

Scotland’s Fair Isle is celebrated the world over for its distinctive, stranded-color knitting, and Alice Starmore is famous for her expertise in designing and instructing knitters in this appealing regional tradition. Starmore’s richly illustrated guide offers both beginning and advanced knitters a complete workshop in the Fair Isle style. It not only explores the art’s history, patterns, and traditional techniques but also encourages knitters to develop their own creativity.

Book Of Fair Isle Knitting By Alice Starmore
Starmore explains the traditional Fair Isle techniques of circular knitting and presents detailed tutorials on incorporating classic motifs, exploring color schemes, and creating unique patterns and designs. She shares fourteen of her own original designs, including patterns for cardigans, vests, fishermen’s sweaters, hats, gloves, and mittens.

More than 250 photographs, drawings, and easy-to-follow charts illustrate sources of inspiration, simple instructions, and spectacular results. Knitting devotees agree: If you have only one book of Fair Isle patterns, this is the one to have!

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Trending now — and for good reason!

Alright fellow knitters, if you’ve been scrolling through Instagram or Pinterest lately, you’ve probably spotted the Sabai Top popping up everywhere. And let me tell you — the hype is totally justified. This lightweight, drapey top by PaulaStrickt has quickly become a must-knit, and it’s easy to see why.

The Sabai Top has that magical mix of style and simplicity. With its elegant A-line shape, soft rolled neckline, and relaxed fit, it flatters every body and suits just about every wardrobe. It’s knit top-down in the round, which means no seams (yes please!), and it flows beautifully thanks to its clever shaping.

It’s ideal for warmer weather and perfect for layering. I’ve seen it styled casually over jeans or thrown over a sundress, and honestly? It looks stunning every single time. That easy, wearable style is what’s made this one take off in the knitting world right now.

PaulaStrickt’s instructions are beautifully laid out, with both English and German versions included. It’s written with clarity and care, and includes helpful photos throughout. I’d say it’s best for confident beginners and up — if you’re comfortable knitting in the round and shaping, you’ll be right at home.

The sizing is generous and inclusive, and it’s so adaptable with different fibres. Linen, cotton, bamboo blends — they all shine in this pattern. I’ve cast on with a blush cotton-linen from my stash, and it’s knitting up like a dream.

This is one of those patterns you just know you’ll make more than once. The fit, the drape, the ease… it’s everything I want in a handmade top. No wonder it’s trending — it’s the kind of timeless knit that never really goes out of style.

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