by Alice Starmore (Author)

The definitive guide to designing and knitting in the Irish Aran tradition, this highly sought after book returns to print after a decade's absence in a revised and expanded version. The author of many knitting classics, Alice Starmore is internationally renowned as a knitwear designer and an expert on knitting technique. In this guide, she presents a fascinating history of Aran knitting and an analysis of the traditional style, in addition to a complete workshop in technique, pattern, and design.
"Highly recommended" by Library Journal, this volume offers step-by-step instructions, photographs, and drawings. It provides complete directions and charted patterns for the original edition's fourteen designs -- many of them reknit in contemporary yarns -- plus a new design. Patterns include the St. Brigid, one of the author's most popular hand-knitted designs, which represents a step forward from Aran knitting into the realm of Celtic design. Brilliant color photographs depict all of the finished caps, sweaters, and shawls. Sixty easy-to-read charted patterns guide readers through the design process and encourage the development of unique patterns. Beginners and experienced knitters alike will cherish this comprehensive guide to a beloved craft.

Author Biography

An acclaimed textile designer, author, artist, and photographer, Alice Starmore is a native of Scotland's Isle of Lewis. Starmore has taught and lectured extensively throughout Britain, Europe, and the United States. She has written 16 books and countless magazine articles, and her classic Book of Fair Isle Knitting is the work that introduced Americans to the popular traditional technique.

4 Questions with Alice Starmore: An Exclusive Dover Interview
Alice Starmore has a fascinating tale to tell. We spoke to the author of the #1 crafts bestseller Alice Starmore's Book of Fair Isle Knitting about her knitting background, professional start, and more.

Clearly, knitting is a deeply ingrained facet of the culture of Scotland's Outer Hebrides. Did your mother teach you to knit?
My mother taught me to knit when I was very young. She was a dressmaker as well as a knitter and our house was a place of constant creativity. I was also born at a time when most women knitted as a matter of course, and I had three aunts who had been fisher girls in their youth and were experts at making traditional fishermen's gansies.