How to knit the weaving method for Fair Isle

Published on September 8, 2026 by Sophie

Fair Isle is one of the most beautiful and traditional knitting techniques. It looks simply fabulous on hats, scarves, cardigans and homeware, and it’s the perfect skill to learn to up your knitting game!

We think a Fair Isle sweater is an absolute must-knit project for every knitter. The iconic designs give you freedom to play with unique color combinations, from bright jewel shades to muted Scandinavian tones.

If you’re new to knitting Fair Isle patterns, try out the stranded knitting technique first. This is the simplest way to introduce color into your projects. However, if you’ve mastered the easy way and are looking for something a little more challenging – the Fair Isle method is the perfect next step!

Sometimes it is necessary to carry the color not in use over more than 3 stitches. In such cases you need to catch the loop. This can be done by using the weaving in method.

How to knit Fair Isle with the weaving method

On a knit row, take the yarn not in use under the working yarn and place it over the tip of the right needle.

Knit the next stitch, at the same time moving the yarn not in use down which will allow the working yarn to catch it.

Keep the yarn not in use down and work the next stitch allowing it to be caught a second time.

On a purl row take the yarn not in use under the working yarn and place it over the tip of the right needle.

Purl the next stitch, at the same time moving the yarn not in use down which will allow the working yarn to catch it.

Keep the yarn not in use down and work the next stitch allowing it to be caught a second time.

Getting started with Fair Isle

Fair Isle Flower Tam

Knit Fair Isle Hearts

Snowy Day

Fabulous Fair Isle patterns

Fair Isle Yoke Pullover in Bernat Super Value - #429\n- Downloadable PDF

Breckenridge Fair Isle Hat

Fair Isle Turtleneck in Caron x Pantone - Downloadable PDF

Find Fair Isle Patterns

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