Book Review: Alice Starmore’s Book of Fair Isle Knitting

One of the knitting world’s most revered and treasured knitters, Alice Starmore is known as a master of Fair Isle knitting. Her books feature amazing and mind-boggling motifs that inspire and challenge knitters around the world. Last year, her Book of Fair Isle Knitting was reprinted in a paper back version, and it’s a must have for any colorwork enthusiast.

Starmore begins her book with an overview of the history Fair Isle knitting and it’s beginnings on the Shetland Islands. She discusses the importance of choosing colors, using pictures to show how our surroundings can inspire the colors used in a Fair Isle pattern.

She even includes a basic “recipe” for gansey patterns, and then provides a few Fair Isle patterns to cut your teeth on.

Alice Starmore’s Book of Fair Isle Knitting is an excellent book for all knitters, from novice to experienced alike, for the depth of knowledge imparted as well as the inspiration it provides.