It’s Free Pattern Friday!
Today, the Roseate Cardigan in Bella Chenille (pattern link here).
When people look at soft, plush yarns like Bella Chenille, they sometimes think they’re only suitable for babies. That’s a shame, because it overlooks real gems, like the free Lounge Pullover.
We’re delighted today to share another beautiful free pattern for adults in Bella Chenille, the Roseate Cardigan.
Designer Rachel Brockman uses eyelets to create a lovely texture, for an everyday cardigan that’s comfortable and stylish.
Sized from XS to 5X, this project knits up quickly on US size 10 (6mm) needles. It’s one of those pieces where you know just by looking at it exactly how soft it’s going to feel.
Absolutely delightful.
We hope you have a great weekend. Although our offices will be closed next Friday in observance of Thanksgiving, there will still be a Free Pattern Friday (yay!) Happy crafting!
Few projects are more satisfying than baby projects. I always relish the opportunity to knit baby projects for several reasons. First, they are satisfyingly fast. Want to make a sweater in less than a week? Just throw a baby project on your needles or hook! How about in a few hours – try an accessory! Second, they’re small, therefore they’re cute. Does that need any further explanation? I didn’t think so. Finally, baby projects are great for perfect, lovingly handmade gifts. I’ve created numerous projects for my niece and daughter of one of my dearest friends, and I love knowing they’re staying cozy in knitwear!
Today, I want to share some great projects for all the little ones in your life. From cute sweaters to cuddly toys, you’re sure to find a perfect project.
Cotton is a popular choice for baby projects because it’s soft and easy to care for. Plus, it’s gentle and great for sensitive baby skin. Last year we introduced Cotton Supreme Sapling, a 100% cotton bulky-weight yarn that is – put simply – baby soft. Since then we’ve introduced two excellent projects for babies using Sapling: the Sunshine Throw and Daisy Cardi.
Sunshine Throw in Cotton Supreme Sapling
A striking lace pattern framed by garter stitch decorates the Sunshine Throw (pattern link). The lace motif is deceptively simple. It is an 8-row repeat that you’ll memorize in no time. This blanket would be an impressive gift at a baby shower, and an heirloom piece to last for years to come.
Daisy Cardi in Cotton Supreme Sapling
Whether it’s the baby’s first cardigan or your first time knitting a sweater, the adorable Daisy Cardi (pattern link) is a perfect choice. It features little more than beginner-friendly garter stitch and K1, P1 Rib but has lots of impact, especially when you add some cute buttons! Knit in Cotton Supreme Sapling, this cardigan is optimal for the chilly weather of autumn, winter, and early spring.
Storytime Blankies in Bella Chenille Big
Few yarns are softer than our chenille yarn family, consisting of Bella Chenille and Bella Chenille Big. These 100% polyester yarns create a velvety, plush fabric perfect for snuggling. The Storytime Blankies (pattern link), knit in Bella Chenille Big, are completely worthy of cuddles. These simple blankets feature a bit of twisted stockinette for a nice texture and a bold stripe in the center. It’s finished off with fun tassels little ones would love to play with. Which Way is Up? in Bella Cash
So far I’ve shared projects in bulky yarns, but finer yarns are also perfect for baby projects! Although we created Bella Cash, a blend of superwash merino, cashmere, and nylon, with all sorts of projects in mind, we specifically intended for it to be a yarn perfect for babies and children. We have the patterns to prove it, too!
Sized newborn to four years, Which Way is Up? (pattern link) is an excellent example of a baby project using machine-washable Bella Cash. Little arrows decorate this seamless raglan cardigan. If you prefer to knit accessories, try the sweet Heartsbloom Hat & Mitten Set (pattern link) instead. The superb stitch definition of Bella Cash shines in the textured accessory set, which is great for the chilly days ahead!
Heartsbloom Set in Bella Cash
Toys also make great gifts for babies. Unlike baby accessories and clothing, little ones are sure to hang onto stuffed toys well into childhood (and perhaps beyond!).
Pipsqueak in Bella CashPipsqueak (pattern link), a cute mouse crocheted in Bella Cash, is the perfect size for babies. Not too big, not too small. Spike stitches and pastel stripes add texture and visual interest to the project. All of Pipsqueak’s facial features are embroidered, too, meaning you don’t have to worry about making sure you have safety buttons for the eyes. (Side note: this pattern has a complementing jacket included – sized from 2 years to 12 years. Don’t miss it!)Itty Bitty Set in Bamboo Pop Sock
Earlier I touched on accessories for exceptionally quick baby patterns. Tis’ the season for keeping the head, hands, and toes cozy! The Itty Bitty Set (pattern link) is soft and stretchy thanks to the lightweight and breathable Bamboo Pop Sock. The combination of simple ribbing and elasticity of the yarn helps to ensure the little one can wear this project for more than a month. After all, they do grow up so fast!
Left: Mini Mittens Right: Toasty Toes – both knit in Adore
We also absolutely adore Adore for baby projects. In fact, I wrote a whole blog post dedicated to baby projects using Adore earlier this year. You can find it here (link). Like the other yarns I’ve mentioned, Adore is touchable and soft, yet durable and easy to care for. We’ve knit everything from baby blankets to accessories in this yarn. The Mini Mittens (pattern link) and Toasty Toes (both pictured above) are both projects that are great last-minute gifts. They also require so little yarn that you could easily make many pairs from just one ball. So if you have multiple babies in your life, you’re all set!
This list is by no means comprehensive. We have a plethora of wonderful patterns for children and babies. If nothing here strikes your fancy, don’t forget to browse or selection of patterns for children! You can find all of our children’s patterns here (link).
It’s Free Pattern Friday!
Today, the Daisy Cardi in Cotton Supreme Sapling (pattern link here).
How cute is this little darling?
Sized from 3-6 months to 18-24 months, this adorable little sweater is made in Cotton Supreme Sapling, perfect for the cusp of warm and cold weather.
Work it flat, then pick up for the button band and collar. Pick out some sweet buttons to take it to the next level!
On US 10 1/2 (6.5mm) needles, this one works up quickly and takes only 2-3 skeins of Cotton Supreme Sapling. A great, quick gift for any “quarantine babies” that may be coming this winter!
It’s Free Pattern Friday!
Today, the Blue Star Cardigan in Luxor (pattern link here).
We have designer Edie Eckman to thank for today’s crocheted beauty! Edie’s responsible for some truly stunning knit and crochet designs for us, like Branscombe from our newest Kingston Tweed collection.
Sized from XS to 4X, her Blue Star Cardigan is a classic crocheted piece in mercerized Fibra Natura Luxor Egyptian cotton.
This sweater body is crocheted flat in one piece from the bottom up. The front and back are separated at the underarms. Sleeves are worked flat and sewn in.
The pattern is intended for intermediate crocheters with the ability to work shaping while maintaining a color stitch pattern.
There’s no need to cut the color after each row – just carry it up. Edie Eckman has a great video on how to work this technique:
We hope you enjoy this lovely crocheted cardigan.
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.
It’s Free Pattern Friday!
Today, Groove knit in Dona (pattern link here).
Groove was formerly a pay-only pattern, and part of e-book Dona 2.0. We’re delighted to set it free!
Groove has it all – pockets, coordinating buttons and a generous hood. This modern beauty is worked from the top down, and uses Barbara Walker’s Simultaneous Set-in Sleeves.
Dona L-R: 138 Olive, 137 Lily Pad, 133 Blue Hint, 130 Steely, 134 Glacier, 132 Alabaster
Often when I see something bright, my impulse is to want to tone it down, go more neutral and cool, like one the tones featured in our Soothe Dona Kit, above
But this sweater looks so good bright, and Dona’s jeweltones are so saturated, I think designer Tori Gurbisz was right on the money picking a full-voiced color.
Dona is a favorite of designers, including our own design team. We’ll be back later on with an in-depth look at brand new Dona e-book Elegant Ease.
Until then, have a great weekend – and happy crafting!
It’s Free Pattern Friday!
Today, the Lace Tipped Cardigan in Odette (pattern link here).
Down here in the South, it’s tempting to say, “finally, some sweater weather!” But yesterday, a friend in Chicago sent me a picture of themselves outdoors. This isn’t them, but it certainly gives the feel.
I can’t put my arms down!
Fortunately, this week’s free pattern is warmer than you might think!
The Lace Tipped Cardigan is worked in Odette. Although it’s a light-feeling yarn, the merino and alpaca held in its chainette construction give it enough loft to trap the warmth.
It also gives a beautiful textured feel, and subtle variations in color.
Because it’s so light, it still has a delicate look. The lace border helps with that as well.
The other thing to love? You can still have a lightweight, airy look while working on a US Size 7 (4.5mm) needle.
Like most of our designs, the Lace Tipped Cardigan has sizing from XS to 5X. Toss it over a top and jeans, and you’re ready for anything!
We hope you have a toasty and wonderful weekend.
Happy crafting!
Need a little push into the week? Want something pretty or challenging to inspire you toward your next project? Welcome to Monday Motivation!
Today, we’re highlighting the Mod Tiles Cardi (free pattern here).
As I write this, the team is freshly back from VKLive in New York. We had a blast talking with folks and seeing what’s new in the world of fiber. And, in the case of this cardi, getting schooled.
We partnered with Yarn Bazaar in Ewing, NJ, to share booth space and display goods. The owner, Jo Ellen, said, “you know, you should bring that crocheted cardi that was a Free Pattern Friday recently.”
We love this cardi… now. When we first saw it folded on the corner of a desk here in the office, we were less enthusiastic. It wasn’t until someone here put it on that we said, “Wow!” So bringing it to a show? We weren’t sure.
Well, the lesson here is “trust your LYS” because Jo Ellen was right. The crocheters at VKLive immediately saw its fabulousness. They. Went. Bananas for this cardi.
And really, up close, it’s easy to see why. It uses Deluxe DK Tweed Superwash for standout colors that also blend just a bit, thanks to the complementary-toned flecks in each ball.
Motifs are open at the edges to let the top you’re wearing beneath it peek through, and really bring your outfit together. And look at those long spike single crochet stitches running through the center of each motif!
The whole thing is written, charted, and contains a schematic. Make each of the flower motifs separately (great on the go work!) and then join together. It’s sized from Small/Medium to 3X/4X/5X. There’s something to love for everyone here.
Have a fantastic week, and try to challenge yourself with something new, just for you!
It seems like autumn weather came overnight in Charlotte. One moment we were experiencing hot, humid temperatures, and today I’m sitting in my office wearing the Northbound Sweater from the Light and Shadow ebook. It’s officially sweater weather!
What better way to celebrate sweater weather than with a new design? I’m pretty excited to share that I contributed the Surprise to the Deep Fall issue of Knitty (link). I’d love to share a little more about this design and its inspiration.
Originally this idea was born from the idea of water, based on a submission call. I was really happy with the idea, so when Amy and Jillian of Knitty gave me the opportunity to explore that idea further, I was thrilled. And so, the Masten Cardigan was born. I chose Deluxe DK Superwash for this project because I wanted it to be light yet warm, hard-wearing yet comfortable against my skin. It’s a great yarn for it, and I know this design will be a favorite for years to come.
Amy Gunderson captured the face of a thrilled Rachel Brockman.
The leaning cables that adorn this cardigan are the most prominent feature. I love them! The more I worked on them, the more they reminded me of archival images of timber booms. Time for a fun fact: I used to volunteer at the Pennsylvania State Archives. I loved it – it was quiet, careful work that simply captivated me (not far off from the same thing knitting offers!). Most of my volunteer work involved land records. It included rehousing and preserving old maps, cleaning and organizing photos, and, finally, creating descriptions for those artifacts. Maybe not for everyone, but I certainly loved it. Some of the images I was most fascinated by were negatives I digitized from the lumber industry in northern Pennsylvania; specifically in the Endless Mountains Region. These photos captured the history of the lumber industry there.Â
Susquehanna Boom
Hopefully, you can see why the cables reminded me of log booms. Pictured above is the Susquehanna Boom. You can find more historic photos of the timber industry in Pennsylvania here (link). The cables push into and away from one another, completely covering the sweater.
Boom! Look at those cables!
For color, I went with our gorgeous Deluxe DK Superwash in 856 Teal Rustic. It seems fitting for a water and lumber inspired sweater, right? With that said, as a lover of orange, I couldn’t resist some fun afterthought pockets using 803 Terra Cotta.
Terra Cotta pockets!
Finally – what would a sweater like this be if it didn’t have some wooden buttons? The Masten Cardigan features Summit Buttons by Katrinkle’s Knitting Jewelry, who very kindly provided me with the buttons for this design. With plenty of colors of Deluxe DK Superwash to choose from and plenty of button options to compliment those colors – you’ll be good to go. What are you waiting for? This pattern is free, so get your yarn and cast on today!
This one’s a bit of an ugly duckling story, although of course the duckling was never ugly at all.
We had this garment in our studio for a long time, and kept looking askance at it. Squares on a jacket? We just weren’t sure about it, so it stayed on the shelf.
Then one day we were discussing upcoming Free Pattern Fridays, and someone picked up this cardi and put it on. Wow! It looked great! The ugly duckling had been a swan all along – we just couldn’t see it until it spread its wings!
We love how the tweedy gray grounds the piece, but the colorful flowery motifs work with most anything. This was a lucky discovery, with sweater weather finally here!
The Deluxe DK Tweed Superwash motifs are made separately, then seamed together. The pattern is written and charted, and contains a schematic for piecing it together.
There’s a lesson here about looking past first impressions. We’re certainly glad we gave this beauty a second chance.
