When I say "Icelandic knitting," most people think of the colorful yoke-patterned sweaters called Lopapeysa. But since the 17th century, the knitters of Iceland have been doing something else with their needles: making charming knitted inserts for their shoes.

Long since forgotten, these inserts had various motifs and patterns that Hélène Magnússon has unearthed and reinterpreted in her book, Icelandic Knitting: Using Rose Patterns, which we revisit this week.

Next week I'll tell you all about my Iceland adventures. In the meantime, I'll be posting plenty of pictures on Twitter, so follow along.

This weekend in Maine
Spinners, knitters, dyers, weavers, and anybody else interested in organic and sustainable living will want to drive up to Unity, Maine, for the 36th annual Common Ground Country Fair this Friday through Sunday. Sponsored by the Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association, the fair is a celebration of rural and agricultural tradition, with hundreds of vendors, artisans, teachers, and entertainers. The fleece show and sale is one of the most coveted of the season, so be sure to come early to find the best picks.

In the Forums: Happy hoodies?
Pam is looking to make a hoodie as a Christmas gift. She needs your help: What's your favorite hoodie pattern?

Need help logging into the Forums?

As always, I thank you for your readership and your support.

Talk to you next week!

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On the Cover

On the road to Reykjavik, with Ragga's mini Lopapeysa dangling from the rear-view mirror

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