Joyful Stitches in Deluxe Bulky Superwash

August 19, 2021August 19, 2021

Joyful Stitches in Deluxe Bulky Superwash

Today I’m excited to introduce our latest collection of patterns: Joyful Stitches! The e-book contains six quick-knit projects using Deluxe Bulky Superwash.

At this point, it goes without saying that the past year has been tough on the world with the presence of coronavirus. We have all made big adjustments in our lives, and with social distancing in mind, many of us have been spending more time in the comfort of our homes. The needle arts industry has seen significant growth throughout this time. More and more people are dipping their toes into the world of knitting and crochet, and as a company, we’ve said “hello” to many new customers, even during a time of so much self-isolation. It’s not surprising, either. Longtime crafters know how knitting and crochet can introduce comfort during times of stress, and newbies are figuring that out!

Streetlight in Deluxe Bulky #933 Sweatshirt Grey, #906 Marigold, & #932 Icy Grey

With all of that in mind, Joyful Stitches was born! My plan for this collection was simple: create fun staple items that are a breeze to knit. These patterns feature knit and purl stitches only, but introduces basic shaping and knitting in the round, too.

Why Deluxe Bulky Superwash? Many new knitters enjoy using heavier-weight yarns. It’s very easy to see stitches clearly and the pieces work up at a satisfying speed. Our Deluxe Bulky Superwash is 100% wool that’s machine-washable, making it easy to care for. Whether you’re knitting for the first time or you’re a longtime knitter, you’ll love working with this plump, bouncy wool yarn. Now that you know why we chose this yarn as the foundation of the collection, let’s take a look at the patterns!

Gene in Deluxe Bulky Superwash #939 Burgundy, #917 Summer Sky, & #916 Nitrox Blue

I’m going to introduce these patterns in order of ease and skill level, starting with Gene. Although it’s probably the simplest pattern in the collection, it might just be my favorite. I love the bold colors and graphic stripes, which were inspired by Color Field painter, Gene Davis. All you need to know for this pattern is how to work the knit stitch – that’s really it! Worked sideways, you cast on the length of the scarf. That makes it super easy to modify. I’ve written the pattern for two lengths, but you can easily make the scarf shorter by casting on fewer stitches. After you’ve cast on, all there is to it is knit a few rows, change colors, and repeat. This garter stitch glory will be your go-to winter accessory!

Damson in Deluxe Bulky Superwash #919 Purplish Blue

Next up we have Damson. I’m categorizing this pattern as slightly more difficult than Gene, simply because you’ll need to know how to both knit and purl, plus you’ll get to apply fringe at each end of the scarf. Damson is blanketed with Moss stitch – a personal favorite of mine. This simple texture is created with a four-row repeat that you’ll quickly memorize. It creates a gorgeous, reversible texture, making it easy to style and wear. If you’ve never made fringe before, you’re in for a treat. Fringed scarves have a boho feel, but personally, I also think fringe makes the scarf look more “complete”. Like Gene, Damson is easy to modify. I’ve also written this one to have two lengths, but you can customize the length of your scarf by simply stopping when you reach your desired length or just keep on knitting for a scarf length that will remind you of the Fourth Doctor (minus the amazing stripes, of course).

The Checkmate Mitts in Deluxe Bulky Superwash #935 Ebony and #928 Pulp

Next up, the Checkmate Mitts. The shape and construction of this pattern are incredibly simple: make a rectangle, fold, sew the sides leaving room for the thumb, and repeat to make two mitts! If you enjoyed the easy pattern repeat of Damson, you’ll probably enjoy these mitts, too. Pairing a simple textured pattern with stripes and the effect is simply mesmerizing, creating the illusion of vertical and horizontal stripes. This pattern was inspired by the stitch patterns included in Cecelia Campchiaro’s genius book, Sequence Knitting. Sized for children and adults, the Checkmate Mitts are a perfect gift-knit. One ball of each color will be enough to create more than one pair – make a pair for yourself and for a loved one. Double the fun!

Bruna in Deluxe Bulky Superwash #920 Grape Taffy

Ready to knit in the round for the first time? Look no further than Bruna! I personally love a big, cozy cowl and this one ticks all of my boxes. It fits fairly close to the neck, yet leaves enough space for a bit of drape and breathing room. The depth is perfectly suited for folding inwards to create an additional layer of warmth, too. Bruna is comprised of a broken rib formed by a two-row repeat. This project is perfect for knit nights or catching up on your favorite tv show, as you can seamlessly knit across each round, never stopping to turn your work!

Streetlight in Deluxe Bulky Superwash #933 Sweatshirt Grey, #921 Honeysuckle, & #932 Icy Grey

Once you’ve tackled Bruna, you’ll be ready to start your first hat project! Streetlight is a fun hat that will introduce simple shaping to your knitting toolbox. All of my favorite hats feature a deep, folded brim and Streetlight is no exception. Add a bit of color blocking and a fluffy pom pom and you’ve got a simple hat that still makes a statement! Although these days I’m predominantly a sweater knitter, I love knitting hats. They are fast, addictive, and are honestly the perfect gift. Hats are also great for charity knitting, so be sure to explore your local area for organizations that accept donations for wintry accessories! (If you don’t have a donation site locally, consider donating to the Charlotte Region Arts, Fibers, & Textiles (C.R.A.F.T.) who is currently running a community project and is accepting red hats to support a community blood drive!)

The Checkmate Shawl in Deluxe Bulky Superwash #935 Ebony and #928 Pulp

Rounding out the Joyful Stitches collection is the Checkmate Shawl – a perfect companion for the Checkmate Mitts! This shawl is the largest piece in the collection, and while it is simple, it introduces shaping while maintaining a stitch pattern. If that sounds complicated, don’t stray too far! This shawl begins by casting on at the widest edge and simply repeating the same eight rows until you reach the point. Easy peasy! I opted for tassels on each point for a touch of drama, and it really completes the look.

I hope you’ve enjoyed taking a peek at Joyful Stitches! Each pattern in the collection is available now at 15% off the normal price until Sunday, 9/22/2021, so act fast! Save even more when you purchase the entire e-book on our website, too!

I’d love to know which pattern is your favorite. Do you plan to knit any of these projects for yourself, a loved one, or charity?

Happy crafting!

June 19, 2021June 19, 2021

Perfect Projects for Father’s Day!

Happy Father’s Day from Universal Yarn!

For this blog post, I wanted to highlight my dad, Hal Ozbelli, and the incredible work he has done for Universal Yarn. From building up a brand to coming up with creative, catchy yarn slogans, this guy has done it all!

Allow me to introduce myself: My name is Talya Ozbelli, and I am the daughter of Hal and Yonca Ozbelli, owners of Universal Yarn. You might have had the opportunity to meet them at a show, or maybe communicated with them over the phone/email. If not, I hope you get to meet them soon! I may be biased, but they really are some of the greatest people I know.

girl laughing with white dress

family graduation photo — **Top Right:** Talya Ozbelli | **Bottom Left** – from left to right: Hal Ozbelli, Talya Ozbelli, Yonca Ozbelli, Kenan Ozbelli

In honor of Father’s Day, I wanted to spotlight my dad and what patterns from Universal Yarn collection I think he would like. Now, I am no yarn expert – I can barely tell the difference between a garter stitch and a purl (am I the only one that thinks it should be spelled “pearl”?) stitch. That being said, I am eager to learn more about hand-knitting yarns! This is based on my trusty eyes, as well as my keen and, ~dare I say~ really amazing fashion sense. Hey, I know a good looking sweater or scarf when I see one (especially if it uses Universal Yarn!)

First up: Th e Tread Sweater

Designed by Rachel Brockman, this sweater is one that will easily become a favorite go-to. With a versatile, classic yarn like Deluxe Worsted and a chic design, my dad would totally rock this look. The classic green and blue stripes along the bodice and sleeve cuffs give it character, and I can already see my dad’s approval with a simple nod and the words, “I like it” – so poetic.

Man wearing grey sweater with green and blue stripes — The Tread Sweater

The Switchback Cardigan

Does this not scream “dad jokes” to you? Made with Deluxe Worsted, this intricate, detailed pattern and relaxed fit is a must in any man’s wardrobe. Deluxe Worsted has a variety of colors to pick from, so you can cater the pattern to whatever color you would like! My dad loves the color blue, so this cardigan pictured below would fit perfectly for his taste. Whether you prefer to wear it as an outer layer as you’re hiking up a mountain or relaxing by a fire pit, I believe it would be a great fit for anyone! I think this cardigan would be my dad’s favorite, now I just have to figure out how to knit it…

Man wearing patterned cardigan standing in field — The Switchback Cardigan

The Compass Hat and Cowl

If there is one thing to know about Hal Ozbelli, it is how much he loves to be outdoors! Whether that be skiing, or sitting and relaxing in the backyard, this guy loves a good hat/scarf combo. Enter Compass; made from machine-washable Deluxe Worsted Superwash, this combo is the perfect solution if you’re not big on sweaters or cardigans. You can pretty much match it to any outfit you choose to wear, and bonus points if it matches your shoes! I know my dad would wear this combo all throughout fall and winter, and I am sure other men would too!

man wearing maroon colored scarf and hat — The Compass Hat and Scarf

Last, but definitely not least: The Father’s Day Tie

Okay. This tie definitely takes the cake. Made in Deluxe DK Tweed, I mean, what man does not love a good tie? Designed by Rachel Brockman, the tweedy and rustic nature of the yarn gives a casual yet refined look to this stylish neckwear. I can just picture my dad wearing it with one of his suits now! I just need to knit a matching bow so that we can be twins!

close-up image of knitted tie — Father’s Day Tie

Those are my top picks on what I think my dad would wear! I hope your Father’s Day is filled with lots of dad jokes, grilling, and joy. Which men’s patterns are your favorites? Let us know!

June 8, 2021June 8, 2021

Pattern Inspiration to Celebrate World Ocean Day

It’s World Ocean Day! The ocean is our planet’s life source. Covering about 70% of the Earth’s surface, our oceans produce more than half of the world’s oxygen, absorb carbon from the atmosphere, and are home to at least a million species, though we don’t really know the true number. We can all agree that a resource so vital to our well-being should be cared for and celebrated. So, in honor of World Ocean Day, we’re sharing some sen-sea-tional patterns inspired by our oceans and a few tips on simple actions you can take to help preserve this precious resource.

Did you know that sea stars can live up to 35 years? Amazing! These colorful invertebrates are one of the most recognizable sea creatures, so it’s no surprise that so many designers have created patterns inspired by them. In fact, we have three super cute patterns where starfish are the star of the show.

Our own Aubrey Busek took inspiration from these aquatic creatures when she designed Seastar (pattern link) for our Seaside Supreme ebook. This graphic sweater is a statement knit featuring intarsia and lace. It is knit using our popular Cotton Supreme yarn. I love that this pattern is written with both long and short sleeve options, making it easier to personalize.

As fiber artists, we have the power to create many long-lasting, durable items that are inherently less wasteful. For example, that handmade sweater is destined to last much longer than any sweater you buy in a department store. It’s an heirloom piece that you can wear for years and pass down, minimizing some of the waste created by fast fashion. Is there a sweater in your wardrobe you don’t wear often anymore, or perhaps that doesn’t fit the way you imagined? Instead of taking that sweater to the thrift store, consider unraveling it and recycling the yarn for another project. You can even make dryer balls from old sweaters and non-superwash yarn, like our Deluxe Worsted.

If you want something a little more whimsical that’s a nice complement to your collection of seashells, consider making the cute and free Seahorse and Starfish set (pattern link) by Michele Wilcox. Like Seastar, this pattern uses Cotton Supreme. One skein will take you very far with this pattern. I think it would be adorable to string several of them together to create a garland or mobile to decorate your home, reminding you of the ocean even if you live far from it!

Looking for a cute scrubby pattern for yourself or a loved one? Look no further than the Starfish and Shell patterns (link) by Rico Design using Creative Bubble. This yarn is perfect for creating scrubbies that are more durable and eco-friendly than disposable rags or sponges. They work as well for scrubbing your countertops as they will for exfoiliating your skin. Plus, your little one will love these projects as bath toys!

Narwhal & Seal from the Ricorumi Wild Wild Animals book.

I’ve always been fascinated by the Arctic. It amazes me that life can exist in parts of the world so frigid and seemingly barren. Yet, some creatures have evolved to be perfectly equipped to brave the harsh climate. With a knack for creating charming patterns, Rico Design pays homage to polar-dwelling seals and narwhals in the Wild Wild Animals pattern book (link). Both of these crochet amigurumi projects use Ricorumi Cotton DK. The Narwhal pattern is even available as a kit! Eco-conscious tip: instead of using poly-fil for your stuffed animal projects, try using scrap yarns and fabric instead!

One of my favorite books as a young child was The Rainbow Fish by Marcus Pfister. This cute storybook about sharing mesmerized me with its beautiful illustrations. Perhaps thanks to that book, I’ve always been excited to spot a fish in any body of water and had a fishtank of my own growing up. I still love visiting the aquarium to marvel at their colors, shapes, and sizes. With that inspiration in mind, I designed the free Betta Swetta Set (pattern link) in Adore. This duo was inspired by all of the fishies in the ocean.

The Atlantic Ocean, as seen on a rainy November day at Daytona Beach.
If you want to learn more about World Ocean Day, you can explore the website here (link).

Many of the species these patterns celebrate are threatened, and it’s our responsibility to do what we can to preserve the health of the ocean. You can create reusable bags for carrying the grocery items that will allow you to say “goodbye” to plastic bags for good. As I mentioned earlier, many of the handmade washcloths, towels, and other home items are more durable than store-bought or disposable options. Plus, you probably have the skills to mend your handmade items (and store-bought items) on your own, making them last even longer! If you’re looking for more inspiration, don’t miss my recent blog post about our most eco-friendly yarns and accompanying patterns.

I hope you’re feeling inspired to honor the ocean today, and every day! Do you have any tips you’d like to share on how to make your crafting more environmentally friendly? Do you have a favorite type of project that helps eliminate waste? We’d love to know!

June 2, 2021June 2, 2021

Yarn Spotlight: Bamboo Pop Sock

It’s early June, which means that summer is here (in my book, even if not officially!). And while there are numerous things I love about summer, one thing that’s always exciting is the introduction of new yarns for the upcoming Fall season! For the next few weeks, I’ll be highlighting some of our great new offerings, starting this week with Bamboo Pop Sock – Solids.

Yep, you heard me correctly – solids! We’ve had lots of requests from customers who fell in love with our self-shading version of Bamboo Pop Sock. When we introduced the yarn with eight splashy, self-striping colors in 2019 it was an instant hit, so we swiftly added another eight colors in solid, gradually shifting stripes. This yarn has become beloved for being a wool-free alternative to other sock yarns, so it’s great for vegan knitters or those with sensitivities to animal fibers. This yarn blends bamboo, cotton, and PBT to create a cool, comfortable, and elastic yarn. While it’s fantastic for socks, we’ve fallen in love with it for baby projects, garments, accessories, and more! To celebrate the introduction of our 22 solid colors (20 of which are available now), I want to highlight some beautiful free patterns featuring Bamboo Pop Sock solids.

Fairway in #614 Celestial, #612 Sky, & #616 Fern

I mentioned that people began to love Bamboo Pop Sock for baby projects, like the popular Playtime Dress in color #404 Wildflowers. Aubrey simply couldn’t resist adding to the collection of baby patterns using this yarn, so she designed Fairway (pattern link). This cute little sweater features bold blocks of color and texture using colors that remind me of a sunny day playing Par 3 golf with my dad. It’s perfect! Fairway is sized from 0-6 months through 4 years, and only takes one ball of each color across all sizes.

With an eye for feminine details, Aubrey perfectly finds the balance between elegant and casual apparel in the Crimson Tee (pattern link). It features a botanically-inspired lace motif along the hem, sleeves, and in the panels featured on the front and back. We love it styled with a French tuck (as pictured), allowing the scalloped hem to show along the sides and back.

Looking for an accessory instead? Try the lovely Serendipity shawl (pattern link), also designed by Aubrey. This asymmetrical triangular shawl is knit flat on the bias, and it only takes one ball of yarn! The fabric is covered in a lovely little lace motif. The design illustrates how magical the drape of this Bamboo Pop Sock is. It creates a silky, smooth effect that perfectly hugs your neck and shoulders. Toss this shawl over your favorite summer tank or dress and you’re good to go!

I hope you’ve enjoyed a peek at new patterns in Bamboo Pop Sock! Which of these do you plan to knit first? The yarn and patterns are available now, so be sure to head to your local yarn store or our website to start your new favorite project!

Happy knitting!

May 12, 2021May 12, 2021

Granny Square Love

With everyone practicing social distancing and staying at home over the past year, we’ve seen a tremendous growth in crochet and knitting. Whether you’re new to the crafts or not, you probably already know how comforting the rhythm of creating stitches with your yarn and weapon (hook or needle) of choice can be. The art of making has always influenced ready-to-wear trends, but we’re seeing the influence more and more. Trends like “cottagecore,” “grannycore,” and “soft retro” are popping up in ready-to-wear fashion. One way these trends have been expressed has been through granny squares, and it has us all inspired to crochet beautiful projects!

**Square Crochet Cardigan via Anthropologie**

Too often when people refer to crochet patterns I hear “this is not your grandma’s crochet,” but in truth, it is your grandma’s crochet with a modern twist and there is no doubt that it should be celebrated! Just take a look at some of the statement pieces pictured above. Each of these garments contains granny squares, though some are infused with knit and fabric accents. My favorite is definitely the Flower Stripe Crochet Sweater by Farm Rio. It’s bright, bold, and beautiful! This trend embraces delicate floral motifs with soft pastels and vibrant pops of color with more traditional motifs alike.

*Yonca is working on some delightfully colorful granny squares to create a crochet cardigan of her own. She’s using* Wool Pop in an assortment of fun colors, all accented with cream.

As I mentioned earlier, everyone in the office is currently drooling over these unique designs. Yonca, our amazing sales director, was so inspired by the crochet pieces she noticed at Anthropologie that she decided to start her own. I always love Yonca’s designs and admire her ability to improvise when designing. She does this stuff on the fly and it’s so impressive. By contrast, I tend to plan and write most of my patterns in advance because I’m usually not the person actually knitting or crocheting my designs. Although, when I get to make them myself, I definitely improvise a bit!

This cute little square features a circular center in colors that remind me of a gorgeous, sunny day. She’s creating these motifs in a variety of colors of Wool Pop. The colors in the square pictured here are 602 Cream, 624 Blueberry, and 621 Dijon.

While we patiently await Yonca’s completed design, let’s take a look at a couple of patterns we offer that feature glorious granny squares.

Cove in Unity 105 Wolf and Unity Beyond 205 Coral Wash

I’ll be the first to admit that I’m not a crochet expert, but granny squares are my favorite thing to crochet. They’re so quick and satisfying and are perfectly portable for when you’re on the go. When we were working on designs for our Lakeside Retreat collection in 2019 I knew I wanted to play with granny squares. One of my favorite pieces in the collection is the Cove cardigan worked in Unity and Unity Beyond. Generally speaking, crochet pieces add interest to any ensemble, but the yarn used in this design takes it a step further. The thick-thin, slightly nubby characteristics of Unity and Unity Beyond create texture that can really elevate simple pieces.

Simple, solid granny square motifs in two colors make up the lower portion of this design. A lacy motif decorates the shoulders and tops of the sleeves, allowing you to enjoy the breeze. The edging and sleeves are worked in double crochet. If you’re looking for the perfect spring cardigan, there is no doubt that Cove is for you!

Another personal favorite is the Mod Tiles Cardi, worked using Deluxe DK Tweed. This design is perfect for autumn. Sure, it may be spring, but it’s never too early to get a kick-start for cool weather. Plus, this would be perfect for chilly evenings throughout the spring and summer.

The classic collar, button-front, and floral motifs definitely give this design a retro vibe, but cropped sleeves and drop shoulders transform it into a modern piece. Deluxe DK Tweed features flecks of tweed and offers a rustic appeal. However, if you favor a brighter, bolder color scheme, you might enjoy the saturated hues of Dona instead. The cardigan requires six colors – one main color and five contrasting colors. If you’re feeling really playful, pick an even larger palette of colors – the options are endless!

While I wanted to focus specifically on garments today, I couldn’t let the opportunity to share a few other granny square patterns pass. A great, lightweight accessory is the Rita Cowl in Donnina. This mobius design features three neutral colors in beautiful motif – it’s lightweight and loose-fitting, making it great for rainy spring days. If garments and accessories aren’t your thing, the Oasis Blanket in Adore will surely sate your desire to make granny squares. Finally, Jennifer Olivarez created the clever Roundabout Bag using Yashi. I love how her color pairing and the way the striped squares wrap around the sides of the bag. This is a modern and sophisticated bag – what’s not to love?

Are you feeling inspired to create your own granny-square projects? We’d love to hear which of these lovely projects are your favorites!

Happy crocheting!

April 14, 2021April 14, 2021

Eco-Friendly Yarns to Celebrate Earth Day

Earth Day is a week away – and that’s something we should all be celebrating. We are just one of the estimated 1 trillion species on Earth…and we are also the life form that arguably has the greatest impact on the natural world. Recently, I listened to David Attenborough’s reading of his book, Life on Earth, originally published in 1979. In the last couple of chapters, he wrote about our impact on the planet, and this quote truly strikes a chord:

“The fact remains that man has unprecedented control over the world and everything in it. And so, whether he likes it or not, what happens next is very largely up to him.”

There is so much information available about how to ease our environmental impact. It can be very overwhelming at times! These conversations can often be heated, controversial, and even lead to confusion about what we can do. Ultimately, though, we can all take small steps to help preserve this remarkable place we call home. So, what does that have to do with yarn? Well, today I wanted to highlight some of the yarns we can use to minimize our footprints and create practical, reusable projects.

Java

Our Java yarn is made with 100% hemp fibers. What’s so great about hemp? Well, for one thing, it requires significantly less water to grow and process! It’s an incredibly strong and durable fiber and is also very colorfast. Java has a rustic hand and is well-suited for projects such as washcloths and home décor.

An easy step for reducing your carbon footprint is to swap plastic shopping bags with reusable bags. At this point, several states have banned the use of plastic shopping bags altogether. And while your state may not have taken those measures, toting (pun intended) your own shopping bag is a great idea! Stroll to your local farmer’s market in style with the Sunfire Bag (pattern link). This crochet project is worked modularly and boasts plenty of space. I’d love to make several of these bags in an assortment of the 12 colors in the Java palette.

Forget paper towels and disposable wipes! The Stitch Sampler Cloths (pattern link) are great reusable projects that work as well for spa days and personal hygiene as they do for scrubbing your dishes. Taking care of these cloths is a snap because they are machine washable and dryable. Each cloth in the pattern features a unique stitch motif, so you won’t get bored while knitting. Plus, they have a loop that’s convenient for hanging!

Clean Cotton & Clean Cotton Multi

Most people first learn about the benefits of recycling in elementary school. I know I did! I’ve been known to unravel thrift store sweaters to recycle the yarn, but we’ve made the process even simpler with our Clean Cotton and Clean Cotton Multi yarns. Both yarns are made entirely of reclaimed fiber. Our mill gathered waste yarn scraps and bits of fluff from other yarns to give it new life as a soft, durable, and practical yarn at an impressively economical price point. Each yarn in the Clean Cotton family (which also includes Clean Cotton Big) is comprised of 85% recycled cotton and 15% recycled polyester. While we created this yarn with projects like cozies, washcloths, dish towels, and bags in mind, it’s surprisingly soft. We’ve had several customers (myself included) create breezy garments, too!

The Mosaic Dish Towels (pattern link) are a coordinating set of kitchen towels that are absorbent and can be used to wipe up a spill here and there, dry your hands, hold hot plates, and more. All it takes is two skeins of each color and you’ll get at least two towels (as shown above). This straightforward pattern features a pretty motif along the bottom edge and garter stitch throughout the rest of the fabric. An I-cord loop is convenient for hanging these pieces in your kitchen, but you can just as easily drape them over your oven door handle. This design is an excellent choice for beginners interested in dipping their toes into a more exciting project.

Great for your kitchen or your bathroom, the Fresh Air Washcloths (pattern link) are just as practical as the Stitch Sampler Cloths I mentioned earlier. The saturated hues of Clean Cotton make it easy to add a pop of color to your home. These washcloths are knit flat from the bottom up in a broken garter stitch pattern. After you finish the square portion, an I-cord edging is worked around the edge using a contrast color. I think these would be great in Clean Cotton Multi, too!

Cottonwood

Perhaps the most versatile eco-friendly yarn we offer is Cottonwood. Cottonwood is a GOTS-certified 100% organic cotton yarn. It is soft, smooth, and boasts excellent stitch definition. We’ve used this yarn for garments, accessories, and the same functional home products similar to others I’ve highlighted in this post. Last Friday, Heather gushed about the Sandbar shawl on the blog (link). In addition to an ebook, Cottonwood Arboretum, we have a plethora of free patterns to support this yarn, too.

In keeping with our theme, though, let’s take a look at the Macaron Cloths (pattern link). With yarn this soft, we truly had your skincare routine in mind. They are gentle on the skin, yet highly absorbent, making them a terrific choice for your next spa day. The construction of these cloths is extremely similar to the Fresh Air Washcloths I mentioned earlier, but where they really shine is the array of stunning stitch patterns. Featuring long stitches, twisted stitches, lace, and I-cords, you’ll expand your knitting skill set and there is certainly no risk of boredom. Because each cloth is different, this is like getting five patterns in one!

Today I focused on some of the eco-friendly yarns we offer that use plant fibers. However, if you’re looking for some luxurious animal fiber yarns that are Earth-friendly, don’t miss Ravello and Cashmere Lusso – which both contain recycled cashmere, or Deluxe Worsted – a non-superwash wool yarn with a handful of natural, undyed colors.

So, this Earth Day, celebrate our planet and our craft with some beautiful, environmentally friendly yarns and patterns. Take a walk outside, plant a tree, clean up trash in your neighborhood, and take some time to show gratitude for our amazing home.

Oh, and one last thing, please do not place your yarn scraps outside for birds’ nests!

Happy Earth Day and, as always, happy crafting!

April 7, 2021April 7, 2021

Yarn Spotlight: Pix

Have you ever had that moment in a yarn store when you find yourself standing before a wall of stunning sock yarn? Solid-color or variegated – the colorful skeins just call your name. As you stand there, you think about the magic of sock yarn. Each skein boasts generous yardage, so a single skein is plenty for shawls, hats, mitts, cowls, and most obviously, socks! I could go on and on about the wonderful sock yarns we offer. We really have something for everyone, but today I wanted to focus on a perfect, potato-chippy, self-patterning yarn: Pix.

Pix in #108 Techno, pictured with the Happy Magic Scarf.

Pix features a classic sock yarn base: a blend of 75% superwash wool and 25% nylon. Both fibers are incredibly durable with just the right amount of bounce and memory. It is a smooth, worsted-spun 4-ply yarn that boasts crisp, well-defined stitches. These characteristics make Pix perfect for hard-wearing accessories. But what really makes this yarn stand out? Well, it’s a self-patterning yarn in a playful array of colors!

Pix Simple Sock shown in #103 Paisley (top sock) and #101 Citrus Slide (bottom sock).

The simplest and most straight-forward way to use Pix is for knitting socks. We prefer a nice vanilla sock because it allows the colorful patterns to shine. Many sock knitters have their own preferences and recipes for plain Stockinette stitch socks, but if you aren’t armed with one, we have you covered. The free Pix Simple Sock (pattern link) is knit in the round from the toe up. It features a classic K2, P2 Ribbed cuff.

Pro-tip: I prefer socks that are sisters and not twins, but if you want your socks to match perfectly you’ll need to wind off the skein so you start the second sock in the same section of the print.

Euphoric in Pix #108 Techno and Whisper Lace #111 Ebony

Socks aren’t the only way to play with this gorgeous yarn. Just take a look at the funky and fun Euphoric scarf (pattern link), designed by Amy Gunderson. This design cleverly pairs Pix with Whisper Lace in #111 Ebony for bold, high-contrast stripes to break up sections of color. The intarsia method is used to create an unexpected, staggered stripe effect. Cute twists of fringe decorate the long edges of this piece. Although it’s pictured with long sleeves above, I think this would be perfect to layer over a simple dress for springtime.

The Happy Magic Scarf (pattern link), designed by Heather Hill, magnificently displays how neat the color changes are when you throw in a chevron motif. The stitch pattern is soothing and is easily memorized, making this a great project for unwinding after a long day. This design has been well-loved in the office and by our customers for years now (it was published in 2015!). This one-skein wonder exemplifies just how far 459 yards will take you!

Pix features a palette of 8 fantastic colors – with combinations that include everything from bright and punchy to earthy, soothing, and warm. You’re sure to find a color you’ll love…and I’m sure you won’t stop at one! You can nab some Pix at your local yarn store or on our website. What will you make with it?

March 29, 2021March 29, 2021

Free Pattern: Easter Earl

If you follow us, you might know that we carry a fantastic line of yarn created with amigurumi projects in mind: Ricorumi DK Cotton. I’m such a fan of these cute mini-skeins that come in a vast range of colors. The Rico Design Team has created an adorable assortment of crochet patterns, kits, and books for the yarn. In fact, they’re even hosting a ridiculously cute Spring Crochet-Along right now. We’ve been sharing their patterns in our newsletter and on social media regularly. However, since we started sharing them more often, I’ve been getting emails from knitters requesting similar projects for those who don’t crochet. With those customers in mind, and with Easter well on its way, I felt some inspiration creep in.

The skeins of Ricorumi DK Cotton remind us of colorful Easter eggs!

Last week I started brainstorming with our other in-house designer, Aubrey, about ideas for Easter. A cute stuffed toy was the obvious choice. However, we already have patterns for a bunny (Coco pattern link) and a sheep (Sheldon the Sheep pattern link). What were we missing? A cute little chick! And just like that, Easter Earl (pattern link) was born!

I’m just going to say it. I love him. He was such a joy to design. I can’t get over his plump little body and all of the fun details – from the tufts of “feathers” on his head, to his bowtie, plush wings, and silly little feet. He’s a real cutie! Honestly, designing toys is so much fun. It’s a bit of a free form and play-as-you-go process, but it’s also a puzzle that requires no shortage of problem-solving. I re-knit some features several times to try and get the right shapes and proportions. Watching Earl evolve from a weird yellow snowman shape into a Spring chick was a blast. There were moments of anxiety along the way because I really wanted to make sure the finished project reflected my vision. Is it an exact match? Nope – but I couldn’t be happier with it!

I wrapped the upper corners of his eyes to create an eyelid effect. It’s one of my favorite details.

With the exception of the bowtie, each piece is knit in the round. That makes it a no-purl project, too! Some of the pieces, like the feet and the beak, are quite small so they can feel a little fiddly and tedious to knit, but it’s well worth the effort. You’ll get to indulge in a variety of techniques for this project. It involves an adjustable ring cast-on, 2-stitch I-cord, and basic increases and decreases. The body is worked in one piece. Then the wings, feet, beak, and bowtie are knit separately. During finishing, each piece is assembled together. The pattern includes written instructions for where to attach each piece, but I think the photos are even more helpful.

It only took me two days to make Easter Earl, so he makes a great last-minute gift to place in an Easter basket. He’ll certainly be finding his way into my husband’s Easter basket this year!

I hope you enjoy this free Easter treat!

March 18, 2021March 18, 2021

Five Favorites in Bamboo Pop

If you follow us on social media you might have noticed that this week we’re putting the spotlight on one of our most beloved yarns, Bamboo Pop! Knitters, crocheters, and weavers alike love working with this yarn and it’s easy to see why. Bamboo Pop is a beautifully balanced blend of 50% bamboo and 50% cotton with a broad palette of solids, multis, and speckles. The yarn itself features the subtlest heather, gentle sheen, and creates fabric that is smooth, soft, and perfectly drapey.

Bamboo Pop in #117 Emerald and #114 Super Pink.

We have an array of patterns available to support this yarn: accessories, garments, and more! With so many options available, sometimes it can be hard to pick the perfect pattern for your next project. So, today we thought we’d kindle some inspiration by sharing our five best-selling patterns in Bamboo Pop over the last year. Let’s get started!

#5 Areca

Coming in at #5 on our list is Areca (pattern link), designed by our amazing managing director, Yonca Ozbelli. Yonca has a knack for creating designs with simple silhouettes that really stand-out, and Areca is no exception. I love how this top casually caps the shoulders but isn’t a true cap-sleeve. It’s somewhere between a cap-sleeve tee and a tank, and it’s perfect for warm spring and summer days. The timeless color combination of black and white makes it so easy to pair this top with anything. Areca features graphic mosaic motifs that are offset by solid side panels. Knit flat from the bottom-up, there is actually no seaming involved! Instead, a three-needle bind-off joins the shoulders and side seams.

#4 Palmetto

Looking for an absolute show-stopper? Look no further than Palmetto (pattern link). I am so glad that Aubrey joined our design team back in 2019. She has such a thirst for learning new things, taking creative risks, making bold design decisions, and letting the “extra” in her shine through. Although by design Palmetto is a rectangular stole, Aubrey opted for a variety of engaging stitch patterns to make this eye-catching accessory. You’ll be a mosaic knitting expert by the time you finish. While the mosaic portions decorating each end demand a bit of your attention, you’ll be rewarded with rest during the garter stripes and slipped-stitch sections in the center of the wrap. Finish this piece with fun tassels on each corner, wrap it around your shoulders, and show it off to all your friends!

By the way, both Areca and Palmetto are part of the Modern Mosaic ebook (link), published in Fall, 2020. This collection as a whole tied with Palmetto for #4 on the list. The ebook compiles four delightful designs featuring mosaic knitting. Don’t miss the other amazing designs in this collection! Buy just one pattern, or get Areca, Dypsis, Palmetto, and Sabal together when you purchase the ebook!

Staggered Shawl designed by Amy Gunderson

#3 Staggered Shawl

Next up is the Staggered Shawl (pattern link). Playing with color is just so fun with Bamboo Pop. The palette is broad and the variegated colorways were designed to pair perfectly with the solids. Designer Amy Gunderson loves adventurous designs and she knows how to transform simple knits and purls into something truly special. In this case, she used intarsia to create an exhilarating effect in this otherwise simple triangular shawl. It’s primarily garter stitch, so this accessory will fly off your needles, too. The Staggered Shawl has been a hit since we first published it, so much so that our customers demanded a kit (link) with options for different colors!

No. 1 Pullover designed by Amy Gunderson

#2 No. 1 Pullover

At #2 on our list, we have yet another genius design by Amy Gunderson. I remember when we first received this sweater from our sample knitter. I fell in love immediately and was so thrilled to see the Bamboo Pop multis used in such a clever way (plus, it reminds me of Fruit Stripes gum). The multi creates short blips of color breaking up the thick graphite stripes and each edge is trimmed with a tidy, stripey I-cord. Nope – you don’t need to change colors mid-row for this effect – the multis do all the work! I love the oversized and boxy shape of the body with fitted, 3/4 length sleeves. The silhouette perfectly illustrates the drape of Bamboo Pop. It’s breezy, lightweight, and perfect for springtime. The No. 1 Pullover has been a hit at shows and we’ve seen many interpretations of the design. No matter what color combination you choose, it’s sure to yield exciting results!

#1 Kukui

Finally, at #1, our best-selling Bamboo Pop design is Kukui (pattern link), designed by Tori Gurbisz! I’m pretty sure I’ve seen someone wearing a wonderful iteration of the Kukui shawl at every Stitches show I’ve attended, and I swear I’m not exaggerating. Our local yarn stores routinely ask to borrow our sample for their trunk shows. It’s a clear favorite among all of our customers and it’s easy to see why. The slipped stitches are striking next to the blocks of solid color. It’s a boomerang-shaped shawl, meaning that it’s knit on the bias. Personally, this is my favorite shawl shape because they’re fun to knit, easy to style, and they have a more modern appeal than traditional triangular shawls (don’t get me wrong, I also really love classic triangular shawls!).

There you have it – our five best-selling patterns in our best-selling yarn, Bamboo Pop! Have you made any of these great patterns, or are you planning to add them to your queue? We’d love to know!

Oh, and one more thing – we’re sharing more Bamboo Pop inspiration on our Instagram and Facebook pages this week and next week. Be sure to follow us so you can see it all!

Happy crafting, folks!

March 10, 2021March 10, 2021

Pattern Spotlight: Subtle Spring

Today the sun is shining bright and the temperature is reminding me that spring is well on its way. Here in North Carolina, some of the spring flowers are starting to emerge and I can see buds beginning to appear on the maple tree in my front yard. The days are getting longer and I couldn’t be more thrilled. This early spring weather has me tempted to pull out my warm-weather knits. Or, at the very least, it has me tempted to cast on something perfect for when the weather is consistently warm! I’m not quite ready to say hello to linen, but a nice blend of plant and animal fibers should do the trick!

Last year we introduced Ravello, and I immediately fell in love. It is a blend of cotton, extra-fine merino, and recycled cashmere. This blend is the perfect companion for spring weather, keeping you warm during the chilly mornings yet remaining lightweight enough to keep you comfortable when the sun is shining high. This plied yarn features a subtle halo and the palette ranges from soft pastels to rich heathers.

When I saw the submission call for the Spring 2021 issue of Interweave Knits, I knew I had to propose a design that uses Ravello. The mood board features botanical motifs and soft colors. Ravello is beautiful in a variety of stitch patterns, but it excels in lace. So, with my graph-paper notebook and knitting needles in hand, I began brainstorming and playing with some ideas.

Left: My preliminary swatch for Subtle Spring. Right: My digital sketch that was included in the proposal.

A yoke tee seemed like the perfect playground for a lace design. The motif could grow in size – starting small around the neckline and sprouting into something larger and even more beautiful. I looked to leaves and vines for inspiration. Initially, I suggested Sage Leaf for the design – a literal interpretation of sprouting spring plants. As you can see from the swatch pictured above, I thought about using a contrasting color for the hem, neckline, and sleeve cuffs for an added element of interest. Additionally, each sleeve would feature a row of eyelets before the crisp twisted ribbing.

Subtle Spring Tee, image courtesy of Interweave Knits.

Eventually, my swatches and sketches grew up to be the Subtle Spring Tee. The final design stayed remarkably true to my vision. Collaboratively, the editor and I opted to pass on the idea of contrast color ribbing, thinking it might distract a little from the lace motif that decorates the yoke. Instead of using Sage Leaf, we decided to lean towards warmth and romance by choosing 104 Soft Clay instead.

Rows of eyelets border the ribbing along each edge.
Image courtesy of Interweave Knits.

I opted to include the row of eyelets to the bottom hem and around the neckband instead of just the sleeves. This sweater begins with a provisional cast-on and is knit from the top-down. During finishing you unpick the provisional cast-on and work the neckband from the bottom-up. I’m so glad I wrote the pattern this way because, in the original draft of the pattern, I didn’t include eyelets around the neckband. When I received the garment from my sample knitter, I decided there needed to be more continuity between the lace yoke and the neckband. So, I unraveled the neckband and added the row of eyelets. Sometimes it’s the little details that bring a design together.

Yoke details on the Subtle Sprint Tee.
Image courtesy of Interweave Knits.

I love when a design comes together just the way I envisioned. I hope you enjoyed this peek into my design process.

You can find the Subtle Spring Tee in the Spring 2021 issue of Interweave Knits and on Ravelry. To get your hands on Ravello and start knitting, head to our website or at your local yarn store.