Traditional Fair Isle Gansey

This stunning gansey design was meticulously crafted as my final project for the esteemed Master Hand Knitter program through The Knitting Guild Association. With a keen interest in traditional knitting techniques, I set out to recreate a classic gansey shape that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The gansey is knitted in the round, featuring innovative armhole steeks and gussets to provide extra comfort and movement in the upper arm area. This attention to fit ensures that the finished piece is not only beautiful but also practical for everyday wear.

For the captivating Fair Isle patterning, I drew inspiration from authentic Shetland charts, celebrating the rich heritage of knitting from the Shetland Islands. My deep admiration for this stunning location made this project particularly meaningful to me, as I sought to pay homage to its traditional craftsmanship and vibrant colors.

To bring this unique gansey design to life, I utilized a size 3 (3.25mm) 32” (80cm) circular needle, a size 3 (3.25mm) 16” (40cm) circular needle, and a set of size 3 (3.25mm) double-pointed needles. Throughout the knitting process, I used a delightful palette of 5 colors from Jamieson’s Spindrift yarn, renowned for its quality and color depth.

If you're a knitting enthusiast looking for a challenging and rewarding project, this gansey pattern combines both traditional techniques and contemporary elements. Perfect for intermediate to advanced knitters, this pattern will guide you through the steps to create a stunning piece that captures the beauty of Shetland knitting traditions. Download the pattern today and embark on your own knitting journey!