This is a beautifully presented book with photos that will inspire you to knit some of the patterns. There is a great section on the culture of the Faroe Islands and I like the fact that the patterns cover a range of ages from a baby to an adult.
The patterns are not for a novice knitter but would suit a person who would like to develop their knitting in the round, brioche, fair isle, lace and cable skills. The patterns have black and white charts to guide you with the stitches. Most of the garment patterns are knitted in the round up to the armholes and then are divided for the sleeves but could be adapted to straight knitting.
The patterns give one a good choice from slipovers to shawls and jumpers.
The Knitter
This beautiful hardback book has been produced to celebrate the 20th anniversary of Faroese yarn brand Navia. The book brings together 28 of Navia's most iconic patterns, alongside stories and stunning photos reflecting the heritage of wool and knitting on the Faroe Islands. There's lots to read and enjoy here, such as a history of the Faroe Islands and its ancient native sheep breed, a look at modern Faroese knitting culture and sheep farming, and personal stories from this family-run yarn company.
The 28 patterns all have a heritage look, but will work perfectly in a contemporary wardrobe. Stranded colourwork plays a big part, and designs include a yoked sweater with colourblocking and diamond motifs, and a traditional roll-neck sweater with all-over colourwork in undyed, natural fleece shades.
Many of the projects are unisex, such as a classic Nordic yoked sweater, a neat raglan design with subtle diamond patterning around the yoke, and a cosy colourwork cardigan. The 'White Unisex Sweater' has cables on the body, paired with slip stitch rip sleeves, and is knitted in undyed wool.
Beautiful pieces for women include a short-sleeved jumper with a star pattern worked in green and white, and a chic monochrome tank top. The 'Daisy Sweater' is decorated with large embroidered flowers, and the 'Geometric Sweater' is a stunning two-colour brioche design. A chunky mohair-wool yarn is used for an oversized lace sweater with a modern shape. There's also a delicate leaf-patterned lace cardigan, sized for adults and children, along with a traditional Faroese lace shawl with anchor motifs and fringing.
The line-up of patterns for children is impressive, and includes everyday sweaters with bands of retro colourwork, and a sweater with a cute bubble-like colourwork pattern. For babies, there's a simple raglan sweater and leggings, a bodysuit adorned with a traditional Faroese star motif, a bonnet and booties, and a blanket worked in a textured star pattern.
Pattern instructions are generally concise and will be more suitable for confident knitters. Each pattern is presented in a limited range of sizes, typically to fit up to 40in chests/busts.
