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Knitspiration
π€ What is Shadow Knitting?
On the evening of September 26th, 1937 families gathered around the radio, eager for a new, thrilling dramatic series to premier.
The ominous music spread across the airwaves, and little boys everywhere held their breath.
A sinister voice began to speak a phrase that would soon become infamous:
"Who knows what evil lurks in the hearts of men...?
By 2010 they began showcasing their illusion knit portraits in art galleries across the UK. This is something they continue to do around the World today.
Since then shadow knitting has remained a bit of a fringe technique, but one ripe for further exploration.
Einstein portrait by illusion knitting artist Steve Plummer
All about those charts
The primary skill necessary to make a shadow knit piece is really the ability to read charts.
Since the effect is created by alternating between knits and purls, one only needs to look at a diagram to understand when to switch back and forth.
Each stripe is worked in a row pair, back and forth, so often shadow knitting charts will only show ONE row, even though you are knitting two.
This is done to both save space AND make it easier to see the image which is being created within the fabric.
Example of a shadow knitting chart
Going Deeper
While Shadow knitting may not be complicated, a lot of research has been done on the science of how it works.
If you want to get into more of the technical details check out these resources:
This is the home of Pat Ashforth and Steve Plummer's work. While the site is a little outdated (actually a lot), it's easily the most comprehensive resource on the topic. Plus they have a bunch of patterns from their illusion knitting portrait collection.
This recent article by knitting researcher Amy Zhu dives into some of the scientific theory of how illusion knitting works. It also outlines some ongoing experiments she's doing to play with the technique.
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Conclusion
Shadow knitting may have limited application when it comes to colorwork techniques, but it is also very unique.
It's potential use in garment design is highly underused, but it has proven itself to be respected in fine art circles.
But what do you think?
Have you done shadow knitting before? What did you make?
If not, are you more interested in trying?
Hit reply (or use the button below) and let us know about your experience!
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Daily Stitch
Shadow Wrap Short Row
This short row method isn't related to shadow knitting, but it's a great technique for sock shaping.
It involves making an increase which is later decreased, leaving an invisible turning point in the row.
If you're a sock knitting fan, this might become your favorite new way of shaping.
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