Fair Isle Tam* - IP- Summer 2025

*This class fulfills the Traditional Folk Knitting Requirement for WEKP.

The history of Fair Isle knitting goes back at least to the mid-1800s, originating in the ScottishShetland Islands off the coast of Scotland. The technique of colorful stranded knitting, never with more than two colors in a row, results in incredibly intricate patterns that are now copied the world over Fair Isle knitting has a practical purpose, as well; garments knit with this technique are sturdy, warm, and light. The Fair Isle Tam course will teach knitters the basics of this traditional art, focusing on the history of Fair Isle patterning, color selection and progression and two-handed knitting. If you like a little culture with your knitting or have always wanted to learn this beautiful knitting method, join us!

Required text: Alice Starmore's Book of Fair Isle Knitting

For the comfort and safety of our students and teachers, students may be asked to wear a mask during in person classes and workshops, and masks are available upon request.

Format: In-Person

Prerequisite: You must be proficient on double pointed needles (you've cast on and knit projects with them, not just used them to decrease). You must also know how to M1R and M1L to increase, and the K2tog and SSK decreases.
Materials Required:

-        One of the 8-color kits; there are two colorways from which to choose, and students will be emailed about kit selection prior to the first class session

-        Needles: US sizes 2 and 3 16” circular needles or size to get the pattern gauge of 8 stitches/1 inch / US sizes 2 and 3 double-pointed needles or size needed to get the pattern gauge of 8 stitches/1 inch

-         Stitch markers

-        Tapestry needle

-        Your knitter’s tool kit

HOMEWORK:

Read Alice Starmore’s Book of Fair Isle Knitting, pp. 1–45.

When possible, please buy your materials from WEBS.

Cancellation Policy: For all classes, payment of full tuition is due at time of registration. Tuition will be refunded only if the class is cancelled by WEBS, or if there is a waiting list and your spot can be filled.

Click here for complete Registration Information.

Note: If you are purchasing more than one unit of the same class, please call Customer Service with that person's name and information.