Norwegian Handknits

Vesterheim Museum in Decorah, Iowa, is one of the premiere centers for Norwegian-American heritage in the United States. As such, it houses one of the country's most extensive collections of the textiles and handknits that have woven ties between Norwegian communities in America and the Old World, between today's culture and a rich past. This book collects thirty patterns for handknits from Vesterheim—folk mittens, socks, scarves, hats, wristers, handbags, knapsacks, and sweaters—all inspired by traditional knits housed in the museum. With an introduction reflecting on the history of Norwegian-style knitting and the stories behind the handknits that inspired the patterns, the book is at once a practical guide, a repository of cultural history, and a lovely look at one of the rich traditions knit into the American fabric.