Revisiting Dominant Color in Norwegian Knitting | ARNE & CARLOS

[@cristinaslaughter6025]

❤ “Just knit and enjoy it.” A wonderful bit of philosophy. Thank you!

[@ARNECARLOS]

❤️❤️

[@barbaragrant4857]

I was taught to knit continental in the early 1980’s from a Norwegian woman living in the US. She would and I agree that the colorwork knitting she taught me was even size and tension across any colors. I switched completely from holding yarn in my right hand to my left and I loved it. People always comment on how even my tension is front and back. I’ve made many Dale of Norway Heilo yarn patterns in the past when we lived in cold New England. The garments look as if they are brand newly knitted. I wash with a wool soap in my front load machine on handwash, then lay flat to dry. My sweaters are one of my most loved achievements. I’m looking forward to your stocking KAL again!

[@ARNECARLOS]

We are glad you are joining us this year!

[@Harpmary]

So surprised that you got negative comments. The original video completely made sense to me, especially as a newer knitter. Also, makes me sad to think folks were unkind to you! You are awesome. You got me through Covid and consistently make me smile! Thank you for your work.

[@ARNECARLOS]

Thank you for watching!

[@jarahdawg]

I think that the negative comments came about because in the original video A and C were dismissive of the dominant colour idea and said it was because the knitters weren't "good enough" with their tension. People took offense at their attitude, essentially being told that they weren't proficient knitters. I'm glad that A and C finally acknowledge colour dominance, show how to avoid it (Roxanne Richardson has a video also demonstrating it), and embracing every one's preference.

[@terryfeuka1381]

As a knitting instructor, I always tell my students to "enjoy the process". I do not believe that perfection exists and I think that it is a waste of sanity to pursue it. If someone is knitting for a juried event then one should pay attention to tension, stitch sizes, the mistake made many rows ago. But in the real world where I see knitting as a contemplative and relaxing pastime, there is no room for stress and worry over these things. The tactile feel of the needles and the yarn are what I focus on and get the most pleasure from. Thank you for bringing this out in your video. Knitters need to support each other ---- not "nit pick".

[@ARNECARLOS]

Happy knitting!

[@janchow88]

I think that people get hung up on the “right” way and it’s the only way. I like what you said about remembering the joy and that needs to drive what we do. 🎉

[@ARNECARLOS]

Yes, we are all different😍

[@deedeewalker1564]

Thanks Arne and Carlos. I always appreciate when you offer alternate opinions and encourage the community to accept opposing opinions with grace. This isn’t the first time you have reminded us that you are in Norway and sometimes countries have different cultures, norms, and accepted practices. We all need to remember everyone doesn’t have to think like we do. Thanks for expanding our experience!

[@ARNECARLOS]

Happy knitting!

[@leannboyea1822]

Oh good! I've been doing it the way Arne does all these years. Never gave dominant color much thought, I always aspired to have even tension. ❤

[@tammyselbo132]

My late mother in law knitted these Selbu mittens for everyone for Christmas along with beautiful sweaters to match…on her trips to Norway she brought us gifts of these knitted there and we could Not tell them apart from hers ❤️ her grandparents immigrated and so did her husband’s parent I miss her and her husband so it’s Healing to watch you two brings back the wonderful stories

[@ARNECARLOS]

Thank you for watching, and sharing your story Tammy.

[@berglettemom6045]

Making this comment before I watch the video. I wanted to say that your video six years ago was a huge help to me. You saying that color dominance in Norwegian knitting isn’t a “thing” really helped to take the pressure off of me. I stopped worrying about it, and I was able to finally relax and enjoy my process and my progress! I’ve made dozens and dozens of stranded mittens, gloves and hats, and other items, in the intervening years and it has always been just a pleasure. So, your video had a big impact on me. I hope it did for other viewers too.

[@ARNECARLOS]

We are glad to hear that!

[@meatdog]

I remember when you visited beautiful Anna. I love Anna's hands, they look like they have been knitting a long time with talent and care. Those videos on that trip are my favorite because it shows respect to tradition an homage to the craftsmanship of the area. There's nothing like exploring the regionality of textiles. Love to you bith.

[@lauritam10]

YOU ARE DEARLY LOVED!!! I SPOKE TO A LADY AT THE MARKET ABOUT KNITTING AND NATURALLY BOTH OF YOU JUMPED INTO THE CONVERSATION! HERE WE ARE IN BOULDER, COLORADO AND THE WOMAN PREVIOUSLY JOINED ONE OF YOR CRUISES!!! SHE ENJOYED, COMPLETELY. COME VISIT COLORADO. THANK YOU FOR YOUR AUTHENTICITY.

[@ARNECARLOS]

😍😍

[@GaminGawdess]

The amount of support, empathy, and love the two of you give I could not even imagine being mean to you.❤❤❤

[@ARNECARLOS]

😍😍

[@kendenta2207]

I think it is very nice of you gentlemen to give us options on the way we knit our color work regarding yarn tension. Each of us are different. An extreme handknit project may want a perfect tension and strive for that in many hours of practice to achieve that look. And they may stick to that tension each and every time. And that's fine for them. Judgement should be kept to one's self and not to be preached and analyzed by others. Once that occurs the art of knitting changes and becomes what I think is the most aspect to our craft. Never lose the "FUN" and I hope I never do. 😊

[@ARNECARLOS]

Happy knitting!

[@annettefontijne6902]

Dear Arne and Carlos, this video makes me so happy!!! Yes, indeed….the obsession with perfectionism takes away so much, if not all, the joy of knitting!! More emphasis should be placed on the joy, how happy knitting makes us, and what a gift it is to all of us. Handmade items are so beautiful, because they are handmade! I really started to doubt myself when I watched all the videos about dominant colour. Because I knit just like Arne showed, and neven ever thought about dominant colour… So thank you!! We will all continue being happy knitters because of this video! 😃

[@ARNECARLOS]

❤️❤️

[@dgalvao9023]

Your colour work technique is what “clicked “ with me when learning colour work a number of years ago; it just made sense and was comfortable for me and it works beautifully! Thank you.

[@KYERRN]

I always enjoy the mix of personal banter and interesting demonstrations with tips and tricks for top-notch knitting

[@sandyrinehart5566]

Knitting for me is a wonderful world, it is creativity and enjoyment. No one should be ill with you guys, you are giving your opinion, I tune in to hear your opinion, never to criticize or argue with you. I love all your patterns and designs. I think you are both wonderful guys ❤️❤️

[@ARNECARLOS]

Thank you Sandy!

[@paula30979]

I’m always so grateful for all that you have to share. I look to you first for direction when I’m struggling with a technique. Your instruction is always dependable. Don’t pay any attention to the ‘knit pickers’! Pun intended 🤣

[@ARNECARLOS]

😍😍

[@madelainedaley2128]

It is true what you say about how traditional methods have changed since we can now learn other techniques from each other around the world through the internet. I have been knitting for about 50 years, always only the English throw method, then I learnt how to knit/purl the Norwegian method from your videos and now that is the only way I knit. I love it. It’s a shame that your comments seemed controversial six years ago, there is still plenty of room for personal opinion.

[@creationbay]

The number of books is 10. And your blog is 10 out of 10. I watch other blogs but I always come back to you.

[@KathiKetcheson]

Knit and enjoy, work on your tension, and be happy with your result. This is how I want to approach my knitting! What I appreciate about your videos is that you make the process simple, clear, and logical. There is a tendency in the knitting world, in my opinion, to overcomplicate what should be fun and rewarding. I agree that tension is the key. Thank you so much for revisiting this topic.

[@ARNECARLOS]

Thank you for watching!

[@traceyriley1847]

I was fortunate to have an in person class with you both and your logic and process make total sense!

[@MaryaPawl]

So, so important to remember to enjoy knitting first, concern yourself with technicalities second, now that so many of us knit for pleasure! Thank you for being ambassadors of fun, while still teaching good technique- which ‘creates new brain cells’ by challenging us to improve. Mary

[@ARNECARLOS]

Yes, that is true, we are all different and from all over the world!

[@rosiecat123]

I totally agree. Don't be lazy, keep your colorwork stitches even. It doesn't take that much effort. Thanks for supporting my team. : )

[@denisevettraino7916]

Wise advice, Arne & Carlos...I knit my first Icelandic sweater for my grandson with great success and zero frustration after watching that original video. I love the Norwegian technique because it just makes sense, even when knitting Fair Isle, where I think the whole "dominant" color theory originates...Thank you both for addressing this again, although unnecessarily so, since knitters all over the world can learn clever ideas from each other ❣

[@kimbrown3939]

I have long appreciated your thoughtful communications to your channel’s viewership. Taking the time and energy to evaluate your prior content retrospectively, make adjustments and repost, galvanizes my continued subscription to your channel and engagement with your content. I work in software development, which purportedly values a growth mindset, and a commitment to kaizen (continuous learning); yet it is often just posturing. In your presentations I love to see your blend of craft mastery and plasticity in thinking. That, to me, is a hallmark of true design thinking, that openness. Thank your for making this vlog. Much love to you both from Boston.

[@karendavies5540]

I enjoyed and agreed with that video 6 years ago, and i agree with you now. Thank you for the tips and hints you give us over the years, and the joy you bring to knitting and to creative life, which, after all, is what it is all about.

[@ARNECARLOS]

You are welcome!

[@sophieinspired]

The sweater shown at the end with the perfect floats 😱😱😱 knitting goals 🧶💖 amazing

[@lisbethfarmarbowers6476]

Arne and Carlos, you have all my love and I really appreciate all that you are sharing. ❤️

[@phyllisalberici2193]

I've never understood this whole 'color dominance' thing and when I started knitting, no one had heard of it. My stitches are even and balanced and for the past 50 years I've knitted as you fellas do with great results. Six years ago I saw your video and it was very affirming. I've had some critical voices telling me I can't knit as I do but my sweaters are lovely and I love making them. Knitting with colors is like telling a story. I do like lifting that loose strand. I'm going to try that one. Thanks!

[@ARNECARLOS]

Just knit the way you like Phyllis, happy knitting!

[@sylvienguyen3361]

While I'm grateful for and enjoy all of your episodes, I do particularly appreciate this episode. Everything you have presented regarding the controversy of dominant color has always made sense to me. And, thank you for sharing the Christmas 2024 stocking knitting pattern.

[@HaveAHollyDayArts]

I’m so thankful you taught me to hold each color in each hand, it’s so much easier.

[@lisa.johnsonnn]

As a non-Norwegian begin-termediate colour work knitter your approach made sense to me the first time and still does😊

[@patmurray1444]

Thanks for clarifying this and emphasizing the joy of knitting not the perfection!

[@brendamchugh7765]

Very thoughtful and positive video. Being a self taught knitter ( from pamphlets and books available 60 years ago) your method and philosopher just seemed natural to me. When all this hoopla started about dominence, i was so confused. Thanks

[@bonniehall3194]

Well said. The joy of knitting is very important to me. When I followed your technique to press the Christmas Balls, the stitches e ended out beautifully. Thank you

[@janetchang7882]

Thanks for the lovely visit today. Love seeing the pattern emerge. 10 books

[@evelynholmberg7938]

Thanks for the brilliant tip of lifting the loose stitch and knitting it together with the next one!!

[@meganworth7033]

I have always learned something wonderful over the years with you two! Thank you! Blessings always! 💕🙏

[@ARNECARLOS]

Thank you!

[@kristinsykes-david6768]

My take-away is this-- just enjoy knitting!!! Thanks for the fun, informative video.

[@ARNECARLOS]

You are welcome!

[@kiddycar16]

I have embraced the Norwegian way knitting since watching your channel. I've been an English knitter for over 60 years. I needed to change as I was having hand issues which forced me to stop knitting. I can say since changing my knitting style has given me greater joy. Thank you for all that you do.

[@ARNECARLOS]

❤️

[@cherylaberg3713]

I enjoy your videos so much! With every video, I learn something new. Since your videos are available 24/7, I rewatch many of them more than several times. Thank you, thank you, thank you! Now back to knitting Selbu mittens for Christmas gifts. 😊

[@lindawarner7010]

I love your knitting tips! Thank you - and I love the idea that I can forget about having a dominant color and just enjoy the knitting!

[@ARNECARLOS]

You are welcome!

[@markthebassplayr9235]

I learned from many of your videos (and thank you so much again for them all) about the importance of maintaining tension. Since getting better at this I never have a color dominance. Thank you for the help to make my knitting experience better, but so much more enjoyable.

[@ARNECARLOS]

You're very welcome!

[@KimLomQld]

I must go back and watch the original video now ! In no way am I an experienced colour work knitter, but it seems logical that throughout the years and generations of knitting ( especially) in Norway, have already worked out what techniques actually work as opposed to "Modern ideas". But each to their own. As always, thank you for this week's video.

[@charlottetemple8845]

Love you both. This video really made smile. Who knew knitting could be so controversial?!

[@nicolelafontaine1720]

Thanks so much for this clarification. I understand now color dominance is a tension issue. 🙏

[@MichelleHiggins-x7e]

I have grown so much as a knitter thanks to you both. I can always count on finding the answers to my questions and get help. Much love and thanks 🥰

[@aggierowe9574]

You guys give sage advice now just as you did 6 years ago! I learned many useful Norwegian techniques to add to my lifelong knitting experience. I’ve found also that tension is more important, and when knitting and purling Norwegian, I don’t even worry about tension! I also think that the best advice if one is so concerned about colorwork is to knit, I’ve found that years of experience is the best teacher!

[@ARNECARLOS]

👍🏻

[@tamd.6827]

I agree with you totally! I've actually never been able to see much difference in my stitches in 2-color work, although I've never thought my tension was perfect either. So I blissfully just knit away. Thank you for the 2 hacks in case I go off the rails.

[@jenniferstenberg]

Wow, this really opened my eyes and makes so much sense! I have a lot of color dominance happening in my knitting. I will try your tips and switch the position of the yarns. Thank you so much for your insights!!

[@lornawilbore106]

This bends my mind!!😄 Just enjoy knitting whatever.

[@kregister7921]

I really appreciate this episode. I understand there are methods of knitting colorwork in which you may not get dominance but it is sometimes an issue for me (I was taught to keep one color in each hand). I love your tip showing an easy way to even up the stitch size! I’m sure I will use it in the future. Thanks guys!

[@knittingupastorm]

Fascinating. Just learning about how Norwegians knit, and I am delighted to see that you use both thrower's and Norwegian style knitting. I am currently working on Selbu mittens, but I think I will choose a project that is purely knitting to learn how to knit Norwegian style so that I can do that style and thrower's style for the next colorwork project. Thanks for the tip on tightening up loose colorwork strands!

[@wendysopel-tetreault2058]

Thanks for clarifying again. It makes sense to knit evenly and have the pattern speak for itself. I did have the talk with you guys about how some colours naturally look like it fades to the background (for example dark colours) - whole different topic independent of stitch size.

[@ARNECARLOS]

👍🏻

[@LindaC1957]

You guys are great. Knitting is fun!! Like you say, if I’m happy with it, then it’s fine. Great episode as always.

[@taniabishop]

Thanks for the update! It makes sense how you have explained the tension is the key.

[@ARNECARLOS]

👍🏻

[@maryanncasale87]

It’s difficult to believe anyone would give you a hard time about anything!! It’s only knitting!! Anyway, thank you for the clarification and keep on doing a great job! Love your podcast! ❤

[@Jananav]

Lovely video and advice. Sorry to hear anyone ever thought otherwise. I am happy to learn that I already do as you suggest, except I’m a more comfortable thrower so I put the most used color there and “continental” the less used. And switch it row by row if needed. You two are the best! 👍🏼 👍🏼

[@ARNECARLOS]

Thank you😍😍

[@lorettazaharias9692]

Great explanation Gentlemen! Know that you are appreciated and loved ❤

[@karenaskinas1135]

I like this. Of course, because I knit like you so switch the color depending on how many stitche are in a row in whichever color. Great job! just enjoy! Great advice for lots of things.

[@ARNECARLOS]

You are welcome Karen❤️

[@irenemacleod5140]

Hi guys loved the tips on the knitting I can hardly wait for Nov 1to start the sock thanks for your knowledge I love listening to you see you soon

[@ARNECARLOS]

We are so glad you are joining😍

[@suzanneramsay7757]

I hope people will change and stop making negative comments. Your do not deserve them. They should do soething else...they do not deserve your advice. Thank you for introducing us to your way of knitting. My mother knit too fast for me to keep up. I enjoy knitting cowichan sweaters, they are traditionally knit with the different colours of yarn used in the pattern woven through the back by twisting the yarns as we knit. I will try your yarn over the finger. My hands/fingers are very short, so I have blamed that for being slow at knitting. I am one of those that lifts the yarn over with my hand, rather than my finger.... I will keep trying. I really enjoy your instructionals...they inspire me. Thank you from Canada (British Columbia)

[@joycewhitman1505]

I am surprised there would be negative comments. Any time I watch your videos I understand you are sharing your knowledge. There is no right or wrong just personal preference. I am no expert and can always use advice. Love you both.

[@larrybraun193]

Paula Jill.I agree with both of you.I grew up knowing this woman from Norway and she was talking to me about what your talking about.I have tasted food from share both of you are and the food is so good.Love both of you and your adorable little dog.Have a great day.

[@carinaherrling8773]

Hej everyone, thank you for this very clear episode with a good portion of humor on this comment problem. I also dislike these rude comments sometimes all over the KZbin. You did a great job at this video. And with one of your earlier videos i learned colourwork. Now i'm unstoppable.... 😊

[@pegrichard2820]

I have always thought that your dominant color theory made perfect sense! 6 years of agreeing with you!!!

[@carolineclements4235]

Thank you great advice we need to enjoy our knitting without stressing

[@ellenstanton2043]

I listened to your original video and it changed, I think for the better, the way I approach color knitting. My color knitting is much more consistent.

[@Lauren-Pip-ONeal]

I’m thankful for your ‘infamous’ dominant color video as it’s how I found you - I was learning color work and trying to learn about ‘dominant color.’ I found your video (which made a lot of sense to me) and you set me on (what I consider 😆) the ‘right’ path. Mange takk! 😊

[@sleeplessinscandia6452]

Thank you for giving me freedom in my knitting. I’m one of those who heard about dominant color and tried very hard to achieve it, which meant my stitches were uneven. It gives it the effect of one color standing out more than the other (which I liked) but the stitches were so uneven (which I didn’t like) and required a lot of blocking. After watching your video, I believe I’m going to enjoy my color work knitting so much more. Thanks again for your clear explanation of this. I ❤ you guys!

[@ARNECARLOS]

Happy knitting

[@Needtoknit1]

Thank you so much. I love that you explained everything about working with colors. This was truly a great episode. 🧶

[@Stitchingwithmysister]

I remember your first post about this colourwork dominant issue!!and I was also happy because for me it didn't exist either but I kept on being told to do this or that to stop my 'dominant' colour showing (which I could never see!!😅) I am glad you have kept to what you know and what you do!! I am definitely in your club!❤ Thankyou always for your podcasts!!!

[@amyking2597]

Love it, so true it’s all about getting to the final piece that you love the out come. ❤❤❤thank you both so much.

[@LittleKittenLoops]

Fascinating. Thank you so much for sharing ❤ xx

[@robinjohanson4916]

Thanks Gentlemen for this lovely podcast. Like Arne, I was also taught to knit by my Norwegian MorMor, and tension was paramount! So 2 or 10 colors, tension is the same and like you guys, “ignore it”. Love your podcasts. I look forward to joining you both one day on a knitting cruise or excursion.!

[@ARNECARLOS]

Thank you so much Robin😍

[@leonakay6491]

Honestly, some people just find something to complain about. My father used to say about some people "Why be difficult, when with just a little bit more of an effort, you can be totally impossible"...lol! Love you both and your videos. You are such loving and kind souls. From Australia. xxx

[@rosesoderberg4089]

I'm so sorry that people are so criticle.

[@leonakay6491]

@@rosesoderberg4089 Unfortunately they exist. We don't need to give them any more energy. We need to focus on joy, as they wish to take this away from some souls. Love from Aust.

[@susanteminsky1078]

LOVE this! Thank you for showing how you experts knit!! Traditional Norwegian knitting is AMAZING!

[@ARNECARLOS]

Thank you!

[@toniprutch8956]

Thanks for the update on colorwork knitting. My first colorwork project was the hat KAL. My second was the Christmas stocking. I learned more on each project. My mantra is "Enjoy your knitting". I knit every day some days a little and some days a lot. Love you both❤

[@carolscott2076]

Brilliant presentation!!! One of the key points you referred to was about Norwegian knitters of long needing their stitches to be all the same size showing quality work suitable for sale. Both of you & Annemor are national treasures.

[@scu8a8uddy]

This was a great explanation of your reasoning for you previous post about colour dominance. It was very well explained and I’m glad you have stuck to your guns against all the flack you received.

[@RosaJohannsdottir-cv7fo]

Thanks for your episode, Arne and Carlos, - I grew up in Iceland and learned to knit at the ripe old age of 6 and I never heard of color dominance until recently. I think Icelandic knitters paid more attention to even stitches. Thanks for a great podcast ❤

[@annieo54]

Arne, prior to finding your tutorial knitting videos, I HATED knitting!! You made it look so easy and obviously enjoyed it so I tried your way and now I love to knit.. because it IS easy. I’ve done your over stitch to add colour into my work, but now that I’m 100% confident with knitting want to try colour work … and it’s going to be that controversial video that I turn to to follow because I don’t think there’s only one way to do any thing, and I’m all for taking the easy way! There is one thing that I did have an issue with in purling, my brain just wouldn’t pick up how you purled, but Kate resolved that when she had you slow WAY down..🤣 now I’m a pro! But just do want to say thank you!

[@foxbanefibers1341]

I watched the episodes you were in Setesdal and remember being blown away by her technique 🧡

[@kadairh]

Ooh top tip for evening out the stitches!

[@GezButterworth]

Thank you to you both and Annemor for some new tips. Very helpful. I've been knitting since 1980 English style and changed to Norwegian style quite a few years ago. I will always be grateful to you both for bringing that to me. Hard to believe the video regarding colour dominance was 6 years ago! Wow! Where does time go. Best wishes to you both. ❤

[@KarenAZona]

Both of these tips are great ideas! ESP I like changing the picking and throwing to keep tension even. Thank you!

[@foleyjp1]

Thank you for this discussion. It makes perfect sense to me. I was concerned that you were going to change your position. So glad to see the hacks again. Have a great day.

[@sophieinspired]

Scandalous 😂💖 thank you so much for sharing

[@janetshepherd9062]

So interesting!! Thank you guys!😊

[@lindalewis8565]

You guys boggle my mind! Beautiful work!

[@ARNECARLOS]

😍

[@jans2647]

Even tension ertainly makes sense to me. Thanks for the tips!

[@chrisdonohoo]

Thanks for this review! I've done lots of colorwork, soon will knit your polar bear hat/mittens & will keep this in mind!

[@casual_cupcake]

A very brave update indeed - thanks for that :). As I see it, it's a question of rotating vs parallel floats. @RoxanneRichardson did a fantastic technique video explaining the mechanics and why there is a 'dominant colour' with parallel floats and not with rotating floats (the method that Arne seems to use).

[@bluegrassdreams2seams510]

First, thank you for these tips! I’ve never been successful with color work. I think the two tips you demonstrated will help me with tension. I never can west color work items because my garment is too tight! It looks like my floats are fine and like anyone else’s, but I have a smaller garment. It’s all in the tension. I’m going to give these tips a go🥰

[@penkast1605]

Excellent video! I am forever grateful for discovering your channel and learning to do colour work from you. I am on my third set of Selbu style mittens and enjoying it.

[@karinlightner775]

I always thought of "dominant color" as the pattern color, and the other as background - when working with two colors. I do not carry my yarns in such a way that one color's tension is less, creating a larger stitch. Mine are the same, no matter how many colors I am using. So I find this fascinating!

[@kathleenscott1720]

Yes, me too. I associated main color with dominant color, so I was confused by the prior discussion. Now that I understand dominant color is related to tension then it makes more sense. However, I still don’t understand why anyone would intentionally knit in such a way as to have uneven tension.

[@karinlightner775]

@@kathleenscott1720 I totally agree, Kathleen!

[@arlettem.garcia6831]

Thanks so much for talking about this topic again. I am not an expert in knitting colourwork, and it was a bit confusing to me when I had to think and figure out about a dominant colour in my knitting. I agree with you 100%, and it makes so much sense that it's the tension we have to work on, and in my opinion, the knitting looks smoother and much nicer when your tension is right. Thank you again I love your work and your advice! It's all amazing!

[@rachelhochstetler8691]

Great tip on stranding, Thanks for your show!!

[@aratakiskiitto]

The knitting the float trick is so brilliant idk why I didn't think of it!!! So incredible!!!

[@ARNECARLOS]

❤️