HANDCRAFT contains two basic patterns: a pair of chunky mittens and a pair of gloves/fine mittens and features various knitting techniques. The book is the result of a cooperation be-tween Helga Isager and Helga Jóna Thórunnardóttir and in the foreword they write:

”The idea for ‘Handcraft’ arose from our shared passion for techniques and details. We have taught knitting classes together for several years and approach our craft with the same meticulous care. A design can often be improved so the stitches lie perfectly, or maybe a few extra stitches need to be knitted to create a perfect edging. We may be the only ones to notice the difference, but the deep satisfaction that comes with creating a finished piece of craftsmanship drives us both in our work, ultimately guaranteeing that the sweater or scarf will have years of use.

We wanted to produce a book featuring a collection of some of our favourite techniques and designs. We realised that gloves and mittens were a good choice, because so many techniques go into knitting these small items. Gloves have essentially had the same shape for centuries, because they have to fit the curves of the human hand. Our idea was to write a classic book for knitters to use as a mini reference work whenever they need to refresh a certain technique – whether for knitting a mitten or a sweater.”

Knitting patterns: Helga Jóna Thórunnarsdóttir and Helga Isager
Photo: Katrine Rohrberg
Illustrations: Japanese illustrator Toshiko Koikegami