Table of Contents
Introduction Chapter 1/how to use this book Introducing the book’s structure; how to find your way around the swatch directory, how to read the charts, where to find specific information.
Chapter 2/the basics
Basic information and techniques are reviewed for beginning knitters and those who need a refresher. Includes the best way of holding the yarns in two-color knitting.
Needles, markers, calculator, graph paper
Yarn types and weights, traditional and non-traditional
Gauge
Essential knitting skills
Two-color knitting technique
Three examples of holding the yarn
Techniques for even stranding
How to weave long floats
Reading charts: actual-size color charts with pattern stitches clearly defined against background stitches accompany each swatch. The chart for each motif is presented exactly as knit and also illustrated with an alternative colorway. Our charts have clear details which make them easy reading for beginners and experts alike.
Finishing techniques: proper finishing of your garment is essential in two-color knitting. Most Scandinavian two-color knitting is done circularly, creating a tube of fabric; the special technique of “steeking” or cutting your knitting is used to create armholes, necklines, and openings for cardigans. A brief introduction of machine-sewn steeks and crocheted steeks is included. Also included is discussion of weaving in yarn ends and tricks for making the task less burdensome. The importance of blocking a finished garment is included.
Chapter 3/use of color, use of motifs
A discussion of the simple use of color in Scandinavian knitting, which is primarily two colors only in any single row. The effect of reversing a colorway will be illustrated with swatches. If a knitter would like to use more than two colors in a single garment, the addition of a new motif with a different colorway is often a clever solution. Many pleasing arrangements are possible, and examples shown. Contemporary use of color will be described and encouraged.
Advice is given on ways to incorporate Scandinavian motifs into a variety of different projects, illustrated with knitted examples and illustrations.
Chapter 4/swatch directory
Hand knitted swatches organized by random beauty, sometimes collecting similar subjects such as a group of hearts or a group of stars. Each swatch is accompanied by:
Actual-size photograph of the knitted sample.
Easy-to-read color charts on facing page, including a reverse colorway.
Black and white charts.
Mix and match features throughout the directory suggest ways to combine the motifs into pleasing larger textiles.
Chapter 5/Projects
Four simple projects utilizing motifs from the book will be included, with a description of the designer’s inspiration.
Simple hat
Simple mittens
Simple bag
Sweet, simple pin cushion
Index and credits
