Blocking

If the knitting tension is correct, pin the work out to the dimensions given in the pattern.

Step 1: If the knitting tension is correct, pin the work out to the dimensions given in the pattern. There will be some slack in the fabric if, as in our Elspeth bag, more than one stitch pattern has been used. Press using an iron on top of a damp cloth; this will also shrink the wool slightly and set the Fair Isle stitches. Don’t be tempted to pin the work flat when, as in this case, sizing is not an issue. This will create a weaker fabric.

More from "Fair Isle Colourwork":

• How to strand and weave Fair Isle motifs using both hands-2
• How to strand and weave Fair Isle motifs using both hands-1
• How to hold the yarn and knit with the right hand
• How to hold the yarn and knit with the left hand
• Variations on a theme
• Tools of the trade
• Weaving In
• Holding the yarn
• Joining in yarn