Create modern knits inspired by traditional Shetland styles with this lovely book from two design icons
by Gudrun Johnston & Mary Jane Mucklestone
GRAND SHETLAND ADVENTURE KNITS
GUDRUN JOHNSTON and Mary Jane Mucklestone have been sharing the knitting styles and traditions of Shetland with their fans around the world for many years. This is their first co-authored book, and it’s described as a love letter to the landscapes, people and culture of the Shetland Isles. Along with 14 knitting projects, the book contains stunning photography of the isles, plus travel notes from Gudrun and Mary Jane.
There’s a lovely selection of accessory projects using stranded colourwork and lace patterns. The ‘Cake Fridge Hat’ is a Fair Isle beanie worked in six shades, inspired by the famous Shetland landmark and perfect as a stashbuster project. A subtle botanical pattern decorates the ‘Flooers Cowl’, and the ‘Snow Treasure Gloves’ combine Nordic star motifs with Shetland-style colour shading. The cosy ‘Downstairs Socks’ feature OXO and zigzag motifs in bright shades, while a modern colourwork pattern pairing a solid and a gradient yarn is used on the ‘Bousta Socks’.
The ‘Unst Eyelid’ lace pattern appears on a simple scarf that’s ideal for lace novices, and an undulating lace stitch decorates the yoke of the elegant ‘Lucky Lines’ pullover. Mary Jane’s ‘Island to Island’ vest features Fair Isle patterning knitted in wool from Nash Island in Maine, while her ‘Peerie Shop Cardi’ is a top-
