Almost Time

Ever since I learned the craft, I've been wanting to knit something like this:

Elinor's Jumper by Knitchet

Or this:

The Perfect Christmas Jumper by Susan Crawford

Or this:

The Victory Jumper by Knitsels

(Is that last one Intarsia?)

In truth, stranded colour-work freaks me out. It seems so fussy. And I really can't knit continentally at this point (I've tried - not tremendously hard, but I've tried) so working one colour with the right hand and the other with the left hand seems implausible.

Are any of you English-style knitters who also make fabulous Fair Isle sweaters? Is it difficult? Or does it just look that way?