Knitting out of Africa
by Marianne Isager
Preconceived notions are, as a rule, not very reliable. This proved
true once again as I waited for my pre-release copy of Knitting out of
Africa
by Marianne Isager. When Interweave Press contacted me with their list
of
new releases, I read the title of this one and thought to myself,
“black
and white geometric shapes on sweaters… whoopee.”
But I told them I’d be
happy to review the book because there are sure to be readers at Bella
Online
who love black and white geometric shapes in their knitting.
Well if you’re going to be wrong about something…
you may as well be *very* wrong… and I was! While there are
some black and white sweaters in here
and certainly lots of geometric shapes, this book is completely
original
and exciting with its use of African designs. Marianne Isager
incorporates
such techniques as entralac, slip stitch, intarsia, stranded knitting
and
even double knitting. The colors range from black and white to gold,
blue,
russet, purple, turquoise, tan and even pink. You won’t be
bored working
on these patterns.
Marianne gives us wonderful insights into her designs all throughout
the book. Each sweater was inspired by a piece of fabric or art from
Africa.
She uses many design elements to make these patterns come to life. Some
sweaters are made in a modular type pattern, some are more traditional
from the bottom up, and one is even knitted from cuff to cuff. Marianne
also uses a lot
of mitered elements that create very unique and beautiful results. And
if
you like things a little wild, you’ll love her
“Zebra” and “Giraffe” vests!
(And yes, the “Zebra” *is* black and
white!)
These are certainly not quick to knit sweaters. If you’re
looking for a sweater pattern to knit and be done in a few days, this
isn’t it! These sweaters are masterpieces, the type of
sweater you knit out of a good wool yarn and pass down through the
generations. (Okay, my bias is showing, you *can* use a
synthetic yarn… if you must.)
Don’t let lack of knitting experience put you off from trying
any of these sweaters. Marianne did a wonderful job with her directions
and Interweave Press did its usual fantastic job of illustrating and
photography to help you along. Much attention and detail is given in
the instructions for both the sweater patterns and the techniques used.
I’m very excited about this book and I know you
will enjoy it as
well!
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