Icelandic Handknits 25 Heirloom Techniques and Projects

by Magnusson, Helene; Sigurdardóttir, Elín

• ISBN13: 9780760342442
• ISBN10: 076034244X
• Format: Hardcover
• Copyright: 2013-03-28
• Publisher: Voyageur Press

Summary

Iceland boasts a rich heritage of knitting. Thanks in equal parts to the island's special wool, harsh climate, and the need to battle the elements, Icelandic knitters have developed unique traditions of both needlework techniques, handknit styles, and Scandinavian patterns. Icelandic Handknitscollects 25 patterns for folk mittens, socks, scarves, hats, mittens, wristers, handbags, knapsacks, and sweaters inspired by traditional knits. An introduction reflecting on the history of Icelandic-style knitting and the stories behind the vintage handknits that inspired the patterns will be included. But this is more than just a book of knitting. Vintage photographs of Icelandic fisherman, knitters, and other inhabitants proudly displaying their knitwear; classic recipes; and photos of the artifacts that inspired the designs crown this collection.

Author Biography

HSl\u00e8neÿMagn\u00fassonÿis a leading knit designer in Iceland, the author of many books about traditional Icelandic knitting and the editor of The Icelandic Knitter (icelandicknitter.com), an online publication with knitting patterns inspired by tradition with a modern twist. She began her professional life as a lawyer in Paris before she made a complete life change and moved to Iceland, where she studied textile and fashion at Iceland Academy of the Arts and worked as a hired girl in a sheep farm and a mountain guide. The varied skills she learned in those early years richly inform the amazing hiking and knitting tours she passionately guides in Iceland.ÿMore info on:ÿwww.icelandicknitter.comHSl\u00e8neÿMagn\u00fassonÿis a leading knit designer in Iceland, the author of many books about traditional Icelandic knitting and the editor of The Icelandic Knitter (icelandicknitter.com), an online publication with knitting patterns inspired by tradition with a modern twist. She began her professional life as a lawyer in Paris before she made a complete life change and moved to Iceland, where she studied textile and fashion at Iceland Academy of the Arts and worked as a hired girl in a sheep farm and a mountain guide. The varied skills she learned in those early years richly inform the amazing hiking and knitting tours she passionately guides in Iceland.ÿMore info on:ÿwww.icelandicknitter.com

Table of Contents

Foreword by Elín S. SigurðardóttirA Brief History of the Textile Museum in Blönduós Introduction
Chapter 1: Inspired by Mittens Checkered Mittens & BeanieLeaf Mittens, Slouchy Cap & Scarf Skagafjörður MittensSkagafjörður Tote BagNordic Leaf MittensPerlusmokkar: Beaded Wrist WarmersPerluband: Beaded Armband & Hairband
Chapter 2: Inspired by Traditional Costumes Skautbúningur Sweater Mötull CapeletA Perfect Little Icelandic Sweater The Missing Lopi Sweater
Chapter 3: Inspired by Footwear Icelandic Shoe InsertsIcelandic Soft Shoes Step Rose CushionBroken Rose Blanket Togara Socks Sock Band Socks
Chapter 4: Inspired by Lace Halldóra Long Shawl Margrét Triangular ShawlLace Hood Klukka Skirt Lacy Skotthúfa
Special Techniques AbbreviationsYarn SourcesKnitting References Acknowledgments About the Author and PhotographerIndex