Fair Isle Tricks

Every time I knit, I learn something new.  Here are some close-ups to show you what I mean.  My first row of flowers on my Fair Isle sweater buckled and bowed - and I thought I was being so careful

After analyzing my work, I realized that I was catching the floats in the center of the flower on every single row.  That was causing the flower to pucker.  You can see how it caves in the center exactly where I caught each float.  So I tried to stagger the catches.

Ah, much better.  It took too long to make that first row of flowers, so I decided to just leave it.  I might regret it, but I like to think of it as a visual reminder to myself to always stagger the catches on my Fair Isle.

Comments

[Hilari]

love this! such beautiful colors!

[hakucho]

Thanks for the tip :) I always appreciate learning new tips and tricks! Can't wait to see your finished sweater...

[Pam]

Wow, what a great learning experience. Your second swatch looks so good. Very inspiring. I've yet to do fair isle. I've seen some fingerless gloves with fair isle patterns that I may give a try.

[Wool Winder]

I'd leave it too. There's a chance it might pucker less after it's washed.

[Barbara-Kay]

Thanks for the Fair Isle tip. I'd probably catch in the same spot, too. Now I know better, thanks to you.