Description ~ Icelandic Lopi Wool Knitting and Textile History

Learn to knit Icelandic lopi wool stranded colorwork, or improve your existing colorwork technique! Icelandic lopi knitting includes stranded colorwork techniques (like traditional Fair Isle) yet lopi is knitted with a much larger needle (generally 5.0mm) whereas traditional Fair Isle is knitted with a much smaller needle (generally 3.0mm). Everyone will be knitting an Icelandic lopi wool ski hat (or beanie) during the class. Join us for a fun and informative day of Icelandic lopi knitting!

The class includes:

• An Icelandic lopi hat pattern designed by Jennifer Daley
• Icelandic lopi knitting tips, tricks, and techniques
• An overview of the special qualities of Icelandic sheep and wool
• A presentation of Icelandic textile history, including traditional lopi ski sweaters with the distinctive yoke
• A guided exploration of traditional lopi patterns and motifs
• A discussion of Icelandic lopi knitwear design, including color dominance and color theory
• A lopi knitted hat-blocking explanation
• A steeking discussion on how and why to safely cut your knitting

Materials Needed ~ Icelandic Lopi Wool Knitting and Textile History

• 2 contrasting shades of Istex brand 100% pure Icelandic lopi wool in the lettlopi weight, which is considered a worsted/Aran weight yarn
• 3.5mm circular needle (16 inch) for the ribbing
• 5.0mm circular needle (16 inch) for the stranded colorwork
• 5.0mm double pointed needles for the crown
• Stitch markers

Homework ~ Icelandic Lopi Wool Knitting and Textile History

None