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Welsh Blankets
Laine Books - Traditions Revisited, Modern Estonian Knits - Pattern Previews
Traditions Revisited, Modern Estonian Knits - Pattern Previews
Estonian knitting is all about techniques, embellishment and regionality. Traditions Revisited – Modern Estonian Knits is an introduction to contemporary Estonian knitting. It includes nineteen patterns, ranging from mittens to sweaters, which blend seamlessly with modern knitting styles. A sample of these patterns are shown below. They are based on traditional Estonian techniques but have a distinctive graphic touch by the author. The book makes traditional techniques accessible to everyone and builds a bridge between Estonian knitters and the international knitting community. Traditions Revisited is part of the Laine Books and Magazines Collection.
KILP (left)
This roosimine pattern is one that evokes traditional patterns used in socks and gloves. It is worn proudly on the front chest like a shield (‘kilp’) of pride, identity and protection. Done as a gradient, all in one colour or with three different colours. The set-in sleeve sweater is knit seamlessly from the top down
VESKI (right)
This stunning raglan sweater uses the roosimine technique to evoke the feeling of a windmill. As Estonia was largely an agricultural country, windmills were common, although these days very few remain and even fewer are operational. Veski is knit seamlessly from the top down. A large roosimine motif is worked on the front of the body, and smaller roosimine motifs are worked just above each cuff.
SIIL (left)
There are many cute hedgehogs (‘siil’) to be found in the great expanse of forest that make up Estonia, and these creatures are sometimes seen in the city parks too. Create stylish quills on a handy pair of mitts using a staggered knitted fringe. The Siil mitts are knitted from the cuff up.
TIIVAD (right)
Like the wings (‘tiivad’) of a bird, this shawl has a texture that ruffles in the breeze. The knitted fringes on the shawl are inspired by the stripes and edge trim seen on many traditional mittens. This triangular shawl is knit from the outside edge inward, starting with the largest number of stitches. Tiivad has knitted fringe stripes worked in one and two colours between sections of Stockinette stitch.
KIHNU (left)
A colourful modern twist on a traditional sock style from the island it is named after. These socks have colour work detailing and sock teeth pattern (‘sukahambad’) with braids and sleek ribbing down the leg to the toes and heel, reminiscent of its intricate traditional inspiration. The Kihnu socks are knitted from the cuff to toe.
TROI (right)
The troi is a traditional men’s sweater from the island of Kihnu. Troi’s are all-over colour work sweaters brimming with embellishment, historically done in black or blue and white with the knitted braids in red. This modern troi includes useful pockets and comes in two versions, a sweater and a dress. Troi is knitted seamlessly from the bottom up with steeks used to create and shape the openings of each armhole and neck.
MARU (left)
Inspired by vikkel stitch stockings from the island of Muhu, Maru plays with interlocking vikkel twisted stitch patterns and shapes. The name Maru means ‘storm’ in Estonian – it is the perfect hat for any wintery weather. Maru is knitted from the brim up.
RUKKILILL (right)
This cowl is inspired by a cornflower (‘rukkilill’) and a swallow, two national symbols of Estonia. Rukkilill has the style of a traditional Haapsalu lace shawl with a few twists – clean garter stitch edge and contrasting nuppud (bobbles) in mohair. The cowl is knit flat from the garter tab cast on tip up. Lastly, the short sides are seamed together.
Traditions Revisited, Modern Estonian Knits
