14/11/2025
Absolutely agree with this article. While chunky yarn is very good for a first knitting project, fair isle is definitely not. Took me many years to get the confidence to try.
Spare a thought for us yarn shop owners, who have been besieged by a stream of potentially new knitters, intent of knitting a Fair Isle sweater with chunky yarn in under 12 hours 🫢
Whilst I have no desire to create a debate on the pros/cons of the Game of Wool tv show I do wish they had recognised the interest the show would draw and provide some sound advice for newbies. I feel I have left so many disappointed this past week or so but in all good conscience I cannot recommend it as a 'first project'.
If any non-knitters have seen the programme and wish to delve into the magical world of yarn crafts do pop in to your local yarn shop - they can help you find the perfect pattern & yarn so you achieve a fantastic result which in turn will give you the confidence to find your own path. Sharon x
ps. image shows Kaffe Fassett's beautiful "Lidiya" pattern
EDITED TO ADD - the image below was chosen to draw attention to beautiful fair isle work, I have knitted this pattern myself and absolutely loved every second of it. For the confused few, at no point have I recommended this pattern for a beginner or otherwise, it's JUST a beautiful example of the fair isle subject discussed.