kirjoneule

Kirjoneule is a Finnish term for stranded colorwork knitting, a technique in which two or more colors are worked in the same row to form motifs and patterns. The word combines "kirjo" (varied, patterned) and "neule" (knitting) and is used broadly in Finland and other Nordic countries to describe both traditional and contemporary multicolored knitted fabrics.

In kirjoneule, yarns not in use are carried behind the active stitches as floats, allowing continuous color changes without cutting yarn for every motif. Common motifs include geometric shapes, stars, roses and bands derived from regional folk art; related traditions appear across Scandinavia and the British Isles, such as Selbu and Fair Isle. Techniques specific to stranded knitting include maintaining even tension across floats, selecting a dominant color for clear pattern edges, and reading charted patterns where each square represents a stitch-color.

Materials and gauge affect appearance; wool and wool blends are preferred for elasticity and even blocking. Kirjoneule contrasts with intarsia, which uses separate blocks of color without floats. The method is used for garments and accessories—sweaters, mittens, hats and socks—and has been adapted by contemporary designers and machine knitting. Care typically involves gentle washing and careful blocking to preserve fabric and prevent stretch of floats. The technique remains a visible element of Nordic textile heritage and modern knitwear.