inspiration

cool stitches – fair isle sweaters with a modern twist

June 5, 2023

Today, I’d like to share with you the work of one very cool maker from Normandy. If you are a Fair Isle sweater design fan, you’re going to love the work of Sophie Ochera. This French knitwear designer combines machine knitting with traditional hand knitting techniques to produce the most beautiful designs.

I particularly love her choice of colors, which at times do not seem to fully coordinate, but result in modern, unique sweaters that are sure to become heirlooms.

I personally would love to knit an adult version of the Quince pattern for myself, but unfortunately, I don’t see an adult version of it (yet?). Maybe in these colors? I’ll keep checking!

This photo: “Quince” in Menthe/Cassis by Sophie Ochera

Another beautiful sweater I can see myself trying to knit one day is the Noomi sweater.

This photo: “Noomi” sweater by Sophia Ochera

Would you love to knit one of these sweaters, too?

Good news! The patterns are available on Sophie Ochera’s website and on Ravelry.

If you are not a knitter — or if colorwork still scares you — do not despair! You have the option to have a handmade sweater knit to order, especially for you (at a made-to-order price, that is)! Totally worth it, in my opinion. 😉❤️

To see more of Sophie Ochera’s designs and to read her inspiring blog, visit her website.

For an introduction to the fair isle technique, you may want to try knitting a simple square like I did when I joined the Arne & Carlos mystery knitalong a few years ago. Good luck!