Esprit Fair Isle VestI am definitely a Fair Isle Fan today. I am getting ready to embark on my first Fair Isle projects out of the latest Rowan Magazine # 46. I am nervous to knit Fair Isle, since I am a tight knitter and knit English throw style. I will be knitting my Fair Isle in the one-hand method.
If you have the new Fall/Winter 2009 Debbie Bliss Knitting Magazine there is a great article and step by step instructions for both one-hand and two-hand methods for Fair Isle knitting. The article called Fall for Fair Isle says "this colorwork technique is not difficult to master, requiring the use of only two hues in each row. After just a little practice, you'll be enchanted with the exquisite results." Sounds encouraging to me!
Esprit Label
Do you remember the Esprit label back in the 1970's and 80's? At my recent knitting guild's retreat in South Lake Tahoe, I brought up Fair Isle and my Esprit vest. My knitting friend Beth and I reminisced about how much fun it was back in the day shopping at the Esprit outlet in San Francisco. You could always count on a long line to get in the Esprit outlet. Those were the days!
And, just so you know, the moths can't get to my Fair Isle vest...it is 100% acrylic. I still love it though and hope to knit a classic British wool Fair Isle vest someday! For now, I will keep to my small Fair Isle projects though...my mitts and a beret. Of course, I will let you know how I fair!
5 comments:
I had a black Esprit Fairisle boat neck sweater (from Macy's Jr dept) from the early 80's. Thanks for the memories! Jodi
Hi Jodi...didn't we go to the Esprit outlet together or was it the Gunny Sax outlet in the city?
Oh, I think you'll "fair" well:-). I can't wait to see what project you choose -
I think a fair isle workshop is due. Wasn't that hat that won at SLT beautifully done. My FI tends to bunch a bit...
This is a ligitimate excuse to have a little glass of wine...it'll help keep you loose and relaxed so your fair isle doesn't bunch! And wool will block all kinds of issues anyway.
I still have a couple of Gunny Sax dresses I think!
I'm visiting your blog for the first time and have to leave a comment after seeing this post. I was at my sister's house in Elk Grove for Thanksgiving and reminiscing about early outlet days at Esprit in the city was part of our conversation. Small world!
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