Alpaca Direct Building in Colour pattern book by Michelle Hunter — progressive colorwork lessons, stranded & slip-stitch techniques

Building in Colour is a step-by-step pattern book by Michelle Hunter that teaches colorwork techniques and includes a progressive set of projects to build skill and confidence.

This book from celebrated knitter and teacher Michelle Hunter collects clearly sequenced patterns and focused lessons to introduce and expand a knitter’s colorwork toolkit. Each chapter adds a new technique or design idea so knitters can move from simple two-colour motifs to more complex multi-colour fabrics without feeling overwhelmed. The patterns are presented in an order that prioritizes learning outcomes, with practical examples and thoughtful variations so you can apply what you learn across sweaters, accessories, and home knits.

What kinds of colorwork techniques will I learn?

Michelle Hunter covers a broad range of colour knitting methods, explained through patterns that emphasize how each technique affects texture, drape, and visual rhythm. Expect clear instructions for both stranded and slipped-stitch approaches, plus practical tips on managing floats and yarn tension.

• Stranded colorwork (fair isle) basics and motif reading
• Slip-stitch and mosaic techniques for simpler two-colour patterns
• Colour blending, chart-reading, and playing with negative space
• Advice on yarn choice, tension control, and managing floats

How are the patterns structured for learning?

The book uses a progressive sequence so each project builds on skills introduced earlier. Patterns are accompanied by stepwise guidance that highlights the technique being practiced, making it easier to transfer skills between projects.

• Beginner-friendly starts that focus on one new element per pattern
• Intermediate projects that combine techniques introduced earlier
• Charts, schematics, and notes that explain construction choices
• Variations and suggestions for adapting gauge or yarn weight

Will this book help me choose yarns and colours?

Yes — the author offers practical considerations for picking yarn fibres, weights, and colour palettes suited to colorwork. Rather than prescribing a single approach, the book teaches how different yarns and contrasts influence stitch definition and overall look.

• Guidance on fibre and gauge for crisp colour definition
• Tips for selecting contrast levels and harmonious palettes
• Advice on swatching colour combos before committing to a project
• Notes on substituting yarn weights while preserving design intent

How will this book fit into my knitting practice?

Building in Colour is designed as both a learning tool and a reference. Use it to work through a structured course of projects, or keep it on hand for quick technique refreshers and inspiration when you want to add colorwork details to your own designs.

• Use the stepwise projects as a self-paced colorwork curriculum
• Consult charts and technique notes when adapting patterns
• Suitable as a teacher’s resource for small classes or workshops
• Clear layout and focused lessons make review fast and practical

Who is this for: Building in Colour is ideal for adventurous beginners who have basic knitting skills and want to learn colorwork in a deliberate way, plus intermediate knitters seeking a compact, technique-focused reference. If you enjoy learning by doing, prefer patterns that teach a specific skill, or want to expand your design options with colour, this book by Michelle Hunter and published by Skacel — available through Alpaca Direct — offers a thoughtful, project-led path to stronger colorwork results.

• Learn Essential Colour Knitting Skills
• Building in Colour!