Grand Shetland Adventure Knits

Johnston and Mucklestone take readers on a whimsical tour of the Shetland Islands, the northernmost part of Scotland. Experienced Shetland vacationers, the duo, who are crafters and storytellers as well as authors, show how the area is also an ideal knitting setting. The book's 14 patterns play nicely into the authors’ Shetland explorations. For example, following an anecdote about a cake fridge from which passersby can buy sweet treats, the authors share a pattern for a "cake fridge hat." While seasoned knitters won't necessarily find the projects to be groundbreaking, the authors' personal spin and the book's overall lightness make them special. Hand to needleworkers who like their cozy knits with a side of armchair travel to a gorgeous island.

-- Nicole Marconi * Booklist *

When looking through the book, I was captivated by the photography of the scenery and how the colours of the projects fitted in with it. The book is aimed at a confident knitter who can work in the round and has mastered steeking, however there are some projects such as Riggies oversized cardigan and the Staneydale scarf that are less complex and suitable for an intermediate level knitter. What is great is that the garment patterns vary from a petite to an XXL size and that the yarns for them are widely available. I love the Swatchtastic hat as it is unusual in shape and would be a great short project with leftover 4 ply yarns. This is certainly an inspiring book to knit items for wintery days. 

-- Monica Russel

Grand Shetland Adventure Knits is far more than a collection of knitting patterns. Beautifully produced and thoughtfully written, it successfully combines inspiring knitwear designs with practical techniques and engaging travel stories that celebrate the unique character of Shetland.

The technical content is one of the book's greatest strengths. The inclusion of an extensive techniques section, covering everything from steeking and provisional cast-ons to German short rows and the German Twisted cast-on, provides knitters with a valuable reference that extends well beyond the projects themselves. As both a professional tech editor and an experienced knitter, I found the patterns to be exceptionally well presented, with clear sizing information, comprehensive yarn details, attractive colour-shaded charts and thorough finishing instructions that make the projects a pleasure to knit.

The travel features add another dimension to the book, bringing the landscapes, traditions and communities of Shetland vividly to life. Through personal stories and favourite local places, Gudrun Johnston and Mary Jane Mucklestone share not only their designs but also their affection for the islands that inspired them, making readers feel as though they are accompanying the authors on their own Shetland adventure.

This collaboration perfectly reflects the strengths of both designers: Gudrun Johnston's deep Shetland roots and Mary Jane Mucklestone's expertise in stranded colourwork combine to create a collection that is both technically accomplished and visually stunning.

Whether you are an experienced colourwork knitter, someone looking to develop new skills, or simply a lover of beautifully produced knitting books, Grand Shetland Adventure Knits is a worthwhile addition to any knitting library. It is a book that will inspire you to cast on your next project while perhaps also encouraging you to add a trip to Shetland to your own knitting bucket list.

If you enjoy granny squares, this book will give you plenty to make. If you enjoy colourwork, this book will give you ideas. And if you’ve ever wondered how some crocheted pieces look so striking and cohesive… this book quietly shows you how it’s done.

-- Carol Ibbe