Review: Encircled, Knit Picks Fall 2017

Encircled is a brand new collection of yoked pullovers from Knit Picks--10 gorgeous fair isle designs from traditional to modern and everything in between. 

When you think of fair isle sweaters, you probably imagine something like the cover sweater (Bridget Pupillo's Eldfell Pullover)--thick and cozy, with bold geometric patterning, just the thing for a cold winter's day. But that's just one of the many sweater styles you'll find in this collection--a must have if you love colorwork or are itching to try it.

Perhaps the best thing about these sweaters is their simplicity--worked in the round, no seams, (almost) no steeking, just knit knit knit. That leaves you free to focus your attention on the colorwork! Stranded colorwork can seem fiddly at first, but once you catch on, it works up surprisingly fast, even in light yarn. 

All of the patterns include at least 6 sizes, with some sweaters worked top down and others bottom up, in yarns ranging from fingering to bulky weight--there's something here for everyone! (And with Knit Picks' wide range of yarns and colors, you'll have no problem finding the perfect yarn and color palette for any sweater you choose to knit.)

The only caveat is that all of these designs are charted--charts are essential for these stranded stitch patterns, especially with shaping in the yoke. So, sorry, you can't escape from charts this time!

All of the patterns in this collection would be gorgeous showpieces in your wardrobe, but I'll highlight my 2 favorites.

Courtney Spainhower's Bistort Pullover, decorated with botantical-inspired colorwork plus Latvian braids, it's a show stopper. It's worked from the bottom up in Wool of the Andes Sport.

 Kristen TenDyke's Spanra Pullover, with a playful chevron-esque design that's repeated on the cuffs and hem, is an understated beauty. It's also worked from the bottom up, in Wool of the Andes Superwash (Worsted).

Sooooooo, who's ready to win a copy of Encircled? I'm giving away a copy of this gorgeous collection to one lucky knitter, so leave a comment below to enter! Deadline to enter is Tuesday, September 12 at midnight--winner will be announced here on the blog on Wednesday, Sept. 13!