The phrase refers to a set of instructions designed for knitters to create designs incorporating multiple colors with minimal complexity. These instructions often utilize techniques such as stripes, slipped stitches, or mosaic knitting, which require working with only one color per row or round. This contrasts with more intricate methods like Fair Isle, where multiple colors are actively used within the same row.
Simplified approaches to multicolored designs offer accessibility for beginner knitters, allowing them to experiment with color without the challenges of managing floats or complex charts. These techniques provide a gateway to more advanced colorwork, building confidence and skill. Historically, simpler methods have been employed for practical reasons, often found in utilitarian items where ease of execution and speed were prioritized over intricate detailing.
