It’s Free Pattern Friday!
Today, Onyx Mitts in Cashmere Lusso (pattern link here).
It’s a sign of the times when looking at these pictures makes me think, “ah, yes, good hand-washing technique.”
But, here we all are. Apart, for now, but not alone. Fortunately, we are able to use our hands to create something comforting.
The Onyx Mitts are a one-ball project in luxurious Cashmere Lusso, a fine-weight blend of virgin and recycled cashmere. Work them from the cuff up on US size 3 (3.25mm) needles.
The twisted rib edges are a subtle accent on a timeless unisex design. Classic mitts in a beautiful yarn are a lovely gift for yourself, or for someone whose hand you wish you could hold right now.
We wish you all good health, security, and happy crafting.
It’s Free Pattern Friday!
Today, Riviette in Ravello (pattern link here).
There is so much to love about this design. It has a little bit of everything.
The center features a split cable that flows upward around the neck, bordered by a rivulet of lace and twisted stitches.
The design is repeated on the identical back. With two matching halves, it’s easy to simply throw this on and start your day.
The lace is repeated at the sides, with a bit of a split at the side hem for a great silhouette.
The great depth of color comes from the fiber blend in Ravello. The cotton keeps it light, while the extrafine merino and recycled cashmere give it extra softness and color saturation.
If you are a “process knitter” and want a design with a multitude of techniques, this is for you. If you are a “product knitter” and want something dynamite when you’re done with your knitting, this is also for you.
We hope you stay safe and healthy, and can take comfort in the work of your hands. Until next time, happy crafting!
It’s Free pattern Friday!
Today, Nigrum in Bamboo Bloom (pattern link here).
Originally part of “pay” e-book Bamboo Bloom Book 2, we’ve set this pattern free! The name “Nigrum” refers to a type of medicinal plant, although we chose to make this top in a decidedly un-botanical color.
Bamboo Bloom Color 215 Silver Tones
While we went with a frosty gray Bamboo Bloom shade, if you want a bolder option you could pick a more vivid Bamboo Bloom Handpaints color.
Bamboo Bloom Handpaints Color 325 Steven Belious
Nothing says “bold” like a Steven Be colorway!
Nice and breezy!
The piece is crocheted sideways and seamed at the sides and shoulders. The pattern is written and charted, and has a schematic for easy assembly.
We hope you enjoy this fun, textured project.
Happy crafting!
It’s Free Pattern Friday!Thanks for modeling, Olivia!
Today, the Inverse Hats in Merino Mist (pattern link here).
Today’s offering is simple, but beautiful.
Love those decreases!
The Inverse hats are so named because with the called-for yarn, Merino Mist, you can get TWO lovely striped hats out of a ball of each color. Just swap the main color and the contrast!
Tah-dah!
A tall band of 2×2 ribbing to fold up, then two-row knitted stripes in the round. Don’t bother cutting the yarn, just carry it along.
Pretty!
Now, I’m a “simple is better” kind of gal, as a rule. Normally, I’m skeptical of yarns with a halo like Merino Mist. And I wasn’t sure about its chained construction, either. And I’m usually not a “shiny yarn” person.
Color 102 Chamomile
But that was before I saw the designs in The Midtown Collection.
Looking good, feeling good.
And before I saw what Cindy O’Malley over at KNITMuch blog had done with it.
Yes, that is the normally tweedy Jay Sweater, all dolled up.
And how amazing it looked in the Pull Jacinthe on the cover of the Holiday 2019 Vogue Knitting.Photo credit: Jack Deutsch
I mean, it’s hard to argue with fabulous results. And I did love this hat, so I thought, okay, I’ll give it a shot. I’m SO glad I did, because this yarn is everything.
110 Night paired with 101 Frost
It’s got great stitch definition, the halo lightly blurs but doesn’t obscure the stitches, and that sheen gives it a level of pizzazz that I love. So I get the pleasure of knitting a simple hat that looks great dressed up or down. You can’t beat that.
Next up – maybe a Swivel Cowl?
We’ll just have to see.
Happy crafting!
I’m not gonna lie – this post is basically an excuse to join two of my favorite things together and claim it’s work-related. Because not only do we have access to a warehouse full of gorgeous yarn, we also have a Girl Scout leader on staff!
Everybody say hi to René, seen here finishing a blanket in Bella Chenille Big, and saying, “wait, you’re not taking my picture are you?” (Sorry, René!) René is our local dealer supplier of Girl Scout Cookies and with so many fabulous choices, we got to thinking about what cookie we would pair with what yarn. So let’s get started!
Why? Uptown Worsted has consistently been near the top of our bestsellers since its introduction – just like Thin Mints remain at the top for Girl Scout cookies. It’s machine washable (the yarn, not the cookie), resists pilling, and has a broad range of options to appeal to everyone.
The most delicious photo I’ve ever taken.What to make? This is a tough one. There are adorable kid-friendly projects like these crocheted monster hats, fashion forward projects like this free Chevron Wrap, and gorgeous kits like the Colorbloom Afghan.
However, the nod goes to Amy Gunderson’s Illusion Throw, an offering from Series 2 of the 12 Days of Winter patterns. It’s simple, versatile, and easy to customize to your own tastes. Something for everyone, just like Uptown Worsted and Thin Mints.
Yes, that is my Girl Scout sash from the 1980s.
2. S’Mores and Uptown DK Colors
Why? Stripes for DAYS.
Uptown DK Colors 70321, aptly named Rainbowz
Uptown DK Colors has the same anti-pilling acrylic that Uptown Worsted does, but in a lighter weight with crisp stripes. Just like the vanilla/chocolate filling sandwiched between two wafers in the S’Mores, these layers are smooth.
Color 70308 Campsite seemed appropriate.What to make? That’s a toughie. The free Magical Mystery Throw is stunning, but we just featured a throw. So how about the simple Paprika Seed Cowl?
It’s a one-skein pattern that could not be easier – Cast on, then seed stitch all the way around until you’re out of yarn. Boom. You’ve got a cowl. It’s the beauty of self-striping yarn – you can work a very simple pattern and let the yarn do the work.
Daisy, daisy…
3. Trefoils and Deluxe Chunky
Why? Deluxe Chunky is the ultimate high-quality workhorse, and it’s been with us since the beginning. Just as trefoils are a classic shortbread that you keep reaching for, Deluxe is the beautiful wool you’ll go for again and again.
Color 91876 True NavyWhat to make? There are so many options here. Knitters should cast an eye toward a pullover that I still can’t believe is free, Valentina. However, for those who crochet and love home decor, the Hearth Rug is an underappreciated gem.
Each motif in this felted rug is crocheted separately, making it a great on-the-go project. Any Senior Girl Scout going for her Textile Artist badge will get to use several techniques in this project. A fun project for a group or an individual!
Yes, that is my daughter’s junior sash!
4. Samoas and Revolutions
Why? Samoas have cookies, caramel, coconut, chocolate… a little bit of everything. It makes for a delicious combination. Revolutions has wool, mohair, alpaca, acrylic, and nylon, all of which blend to make a lofty and beautiful yarn. Good things, coming together to make something better than their parts!
Big wheels keep on turning…What to make? Revolutions is a big yarn with a lot of yardage, so there are plenty of options. Crocheters might like the free Allium Shawl, a big and beautiful piece that shows off the self-shading yarn beautifully.
Knitters might prefer the free Warmth Stole, a large and luscious wrap that takes just one wheel of Revolutions. Doesn’t this color remind you of a campfire?
5. Tagalongs and Ricorumi
Why? When I hear the word “tagalong” I think of a little friend coming along on an adventure. And that’s the perfect description for the mini-skeins of Ricorumi DK cotton.
Start with a magic ring…
These tiny skeins are designed for amigurumi crochet, although they’re also perfect for colorwork and small projects. We’ve seen some very cute and inventive things made in Ricorumi!
What to make? Well, wouldn’t one of these little friends look awfully cute – especially with a tiny Girl Scout uniform? They can be found in the book Crazy Cute Family, or you can get them as kits (hook included!)
There were more cookie/yarn pairings we could do, but I probably shouldn’t eat that many more cookies. At least, not right now.
Hungry? Patronize your local Girl Scout cookie booth! If you can’t find one, there’s an app for that. And if you think of other pairings you’d like to see, let us know!
It’s Free Pattern Friday!
Today, the Storytime Blankies in Bella Chenille Big (pattern link here).
Even though this is one pattern, we’re going with Blankie(s), plural, because we couldn’t resist making this up in two color choices.
Whether you choose the cream and pink, the blue and white, or your own choice (indigo and daffodil?), the texture on this blanket in Bella Chenille Big will still be divine.
Couldn’t you just sink into it like a big fluffy cloud?
The twisted stockinette body and the garter column stripe are each a two-row repeat. Easy to memorize, and quick to work up on US size 15 (10mm) needles. If you want instant gratification, or need a quick baby gift, this is your pattern.
Please do squeeze the blanket.
Plus, who doesn’t like tassels? 🙂
We hope you have a fantastic weekend, full of softness and warmth.
Happy crafting!
It’s Free Pattern Friday!
Today, Caitrin knit in Deluxe Worsted Tweed Superwash (pattern link here).
Caitrin was formerly available as a pay-only pattern and part of e-book Color Fusion, a collection of cool-weather knits in Deluxe Worsted Tweed Superwash.
The Fair Isle pattern is easy to ‘read’ in your stitches, and the tweedy character of the yarn softens the bold graphic lines of the chevron. A well thought-out pattern from Tori Gurbisz.
Caitrin takes just one ball of each color, making it easy and inexpensive to customize for yourself. We’re delighted to offer this versatile pattern for free!
Stay warm, and have a great weekend.
Happy crafting!
With Valentine’s Day right around the corner, I thought I’d make a confession. I have a new love in my life, and it’s Fibra Natura Ravello. One of our new spring yarns, this is quickly becoming a favorite (I know, I shouldn’t pick favorites!). It’s a blend of cotton, extra-fine merino wool, and recycled cashmere, making it a fabulous yarn for multi-season garments and accessories. Ravello is soft, drapey, and has a subtle halo. These qualities are pretty irresistible!
Ravello in 104 Soft Clay
I’ve been having so much fun designing with this yarn. So, just in time for Valentine’s Day, we’re introducing the Ciri shawl. This is a large, asymmetrical shawl knit in two coordinating colors that nod towards Valentine’s Day without being obvious.
The main color is 108 Tuscan Pepper, a rich burgundy that shows off the lace beautifully. It is paired with 104 Soft Clay as the contrast color. After years of resisting pink, I’ve recently become more and more drawn to warm, less saturated shades of pink. Swaths of lace in the main color are interrupted by garter stitch stripes that are worked with the contrast color. It is finished with a crochet picot bind-off that adds a touch of romance. Ciri is knit on the bias, creating an asymmetrical shape. It begins at the tip and slowly increases to the widest edge. The shape and loose gauge make a drapey fabric you’ll love to wear. Each end of the shawl gently spirals downward when you place it over your shoulders.
This shawl is quite large. You can wrap it around your neck multiple times for maximum coziness.
Just look at that picot trim and gorgeous drape – we’re smitten!
Whether you’re knitting this for your Galentine, Valentine, or yourself, the Ciri shawl is the perfect cast-on this week.
Gardenia is knit is 101 Ocean Fog.
Oh, and just in case you’re looking for a little more Ravello inspiration, don’t forget about Gardenia. Lace and delicate cables would make this sweet little hat another lovely Valentine’s Day project, especially knit up in 106 Malbec or 107 Balet Slipper.
Top: 106 Malbec Bottom, left to right: 107 Balet Slipper and 104 Soft Clay
We hope you have a wonderful holiday – filled with chocolate, yarn, and your favorite people!
It’s Free Pattern Friday!
Today, the Aeolis Throw in Deluxe Worsted Superwash and Classic Shades (pattern link here).
What a crocheted beauty!
This beautiful throw was originally part of e-book Classic Shades Book 5: The Plaza Collection. Today, we’re setting it free!
This is the only crochet design from that collection, and it takes full advantage of Classic Shades‘ self-shading quality.
Amy Gunderson used solid Deluxe Worsted Superwash for the main body and the ebony border, then chose Classic Shades color 734 Cool Blazes which had just enough of those tones to tie it together, but still be bold.
The result is a centerpiece of home decor, something to wrap around when you want to keep off the chill but still feel the vibrance of Spring.
We hope you have a warm and wonderful weekend.
Happy crafting!
Have we all seen Knives Out? Or at least seen photos of Chris Evans wearing The Sweater?
Mend those holes!!
This pullover became such a rage on the internet that Evans wound up getting one for his dog for Christmas.
Who wore it better?
Fortunately, as crafters, we can create this look on our own, no costume department needed. If you or someone you know has sweater envy, we’ve got five sweaters (and one vest) for the knitter who wants to cast on some fashionable cables!
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1. Infinite Diamonds
We’re starting with the one that requires the least cabling, to ease into things. Infinite Diamonds (pattern link here) is knit in Fibra Natura Dona, a 100% superwash extrafine merino with a tight twist that really makes stitches pop.
No cables on the back, just plain stockinette. Infinite Diamonds is knit flat in pieces and seamed.
We love the windowpane effect given by the cables inside cables on the front panel. This is part of e-book The Dona Collection, featuring bold use of color blocking to create dramatic modern pieces. For a standalone design, though, let’s move to the world of magazines.
Carrying the pattern onto the pockets is a thoughtful design detail. If you’re confident working twisted stitches without a cable needle, you need never have to use one at all. Let’s move on to another cabled cardi, from an entire collection full of cabled designs.
For my money, this pullover is the most “Knives Out” one we’ve seen so far. Wesley Heights (pattern link here) is part of the same Deluxe Cable Collection that the Greensboro Cardigan above is in. (And friends, there are 17 designs in that e-book for $20, so if you love cables… I’m just saying.)
Like the Greensboro Cardi, this is a very stretchy stitch pattern knit in Deluxe Worsted wool. This one has a greater variety of stitch patterns, though, to satisfy your knitting itch.
Columns of classic cables are split by welting for a well-defined look.
LOVE the detailing where the shoulders meet the collar.
This was one of our most popular sweaters of the year, and it’s not hard to see why. Kerf is available on its own or as part of the Deluxe Men’s Collection.
