theknitknacks.co.uk
Have you ever seen a pattern for a mitten with a thumb and one finger? Well you are about to in this colourful book of projects. There is an interesting introduction where one can learn about language associated with knitting in Newfoundland and gain some knowledge about the country. If you would like inspiration for hats, mittens and socks then this book will fit the bill. I would happily knit many of the projects and like the way they have used neutral colours in some and bright vibrant colours for others. Most patterns, (if not all) are worked on DPNs so require one to be a relatively confident knitter. There are charts for all the colourwork which use symbols rather than colours to show the placement of patterns.
For the projects you would need to swatch a tension square to ensure that the end product is the correct size and you may well need to look for alternative yarns as those suggested may not be available where you live. https://yarnsub.com/ is a good source for looking for substitute yarns.
SlipKnot - Issue 169
'From the island of Newfoundland' says the cover of Saltwater Mittens and that was enough for me to fall in love with this book and it's companions.
As a fan of anywhere remote, wet and cold, and therefore with knitting in wool, Newfoundland fits the bill!
These books showcase patterned functional knitting from this remote province of Canada. The array of mittens and gloves in Saltwater Mittens charmed me instantly and the second book with socks and hats is just as attractive. The third, recently published and perhaps in time for Christmas giving or receiving, is Saltwater Gifts, which extends the range. This includes a hot-water bottle cover, tea cosy and gloves and dog bandana matching set alongside sturdy gloves, mitts, hats and socks.
All three books include knotting history, stories, patterns and photographs. All are by Christine LeGrow and Shirey A Scott ('Shirl the Purl') who have been researching and collecting Newfoundland mittens 'for the past 40 years' and this depth of knowledge, alongside yarn and knitting know-how is evident.
The books are enhanced by wonderful photographs of knitted pieces, both displayed flat and being worn. Pictures of the Newfoundland landscape put the knits in context.
From a knitting point of view there is plenty of support for how to get going with these items, many of them being knitted on 4mm needles in the round with wool that approximates to UK double-knitting weight. The authors also suggest that oddments can be used and there are small sizes for babies and toddlers.
These books are both fun, informative and important, documenting crafts and stories that might otherwise have been forgotten. Their significance is shown by the fact that both the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador and the national Government of Canada have given financial support to their publishing.
The Knitter
Kit out the whole family in colourful, cosy accessories with this new book of designs based on classic styles from Newfoundland. Winters are harsh and stormy in this northerly Canadian island, so, as youd expect, traditional local designs offer warmth and practicality.
As well as offering more than 25 patterns, the book explores the story of Newfoundland through its knitting traditions, and the projects reflect the local geography, history, climate, and culture. The pages are filled with evocative photographs, and quotes from memoirs and stories about the island.
Among the projects is a wide choice of mitten designs, and the book examines the characteristics of traditional mittens from this region. These include ribbed striped cuffs, and the extensive use of a salt and pepper pattern on the palm, thumb and top of the mitten, alternating light, and dark stitches to produce a thick fabric. Many styles have an optional trigger finger for added practicality, and the choice of either a round or pointed picket fence top.
The Hello Goodbye mittens have large heart motifs alongside these traditional features, and Vive La Rose uses a smart diamond pattern. A number of the versatile designs can be knitted as either mittens, trigger mittens or wristers, with round or pointed tops, and in a range of suggested colourways. We love the childrens mittens decorated with tiny houses!
Warm hat projects include textured beanies, and a stranded colour work design with moose motifs and a folded brim. Theres a helmet-shaped hat with ear flaps; a peaked cap; and a watch cap inspired by vintage Newfoundland tea cosies, which would make an ideal stash buster project.
The book also has a section on vamps: the traditional Newfoundland oversock worn as an extra layer inside your boots, or as house slippers, and which are typically ankle-length. Alongside the plain, single colour Family Vamps in four sizes, there are adult vamps with an all-over colour work pattern, and the Treasure Trout two-colour vamps for babies.
Friendly tips and advice on techniques are provided throughout the book. The beautiful, atmospheric photographs of Newfoundland will leave you with a cosy feeling and will make you look forward to the cold weather so you can knit and wear these fascinating accessories!
