Free Pattern Friday – Summer Poncho

It’s Free Pattern Friday!Flax_SummerPoncho_alt_blogToday, the Summer Poncho in Flax.

We’re on the road to Columbus, OH right now for the annual summer National Needlearts Association trade show, but we still had to share this absolute beauty.

Susan at TNNAThe Summer Poncho is designed by Susan Whitmore, the owner of Rainy Day Creations yarn shop in Pineville, NC.  To the right you can see Susan snuggling with Suzy the Cuddlebunny at a previous year’s show in the Universal Yarn booth.

She has just closed her shop and is enjoying a richly deserved retirement.  We miss her welcoming shop, but we’re so glad that she’s taking time to enjoy herself.  And we’re doubly glad that she shared this lovely design with us before hopping on her motorcycle and vrooming off into the sunset!

Flax_SummerPoncho_blogKnit in FibraNatura Flax linen yarn in two pieces and seamed, this oversized poncho will fit a variety of sizes and is easy to adjust simply by seaming more or less of the sizes and neck.  It’s a simple written pattern and contains a schematic for assembly.  Such a great piece for summer!

We hope you enjoy this piece, and that you pull a page from Susan’s book and take time to enjoy life.

Happy knitting!

Knitspiration – The Long Fence

How about a little summer in the midst of winter?

The Long Fence by Romare Bearden
The Long Fence by Romare Bearden (1986)

Romare Bearden (1911-1988) has a special place in my heart.  He hails from my hometown of Charlotte, NC, just down the road from Universal Yarn.  He moved to New York and contributed to Harlem’s vibrant arts scene in the 30’s and 40’s, often using imagery from his home state.  Romare Bearden was that fortunate artist who gained respect and recognition in his lifetime, with his works displayed in important collections around the globe.  If you’re ever in Charlotte, take a pleasant stroll through Romare Bearden Park – then come up the road and see us.

His use of color is inspiring.

Uptown Worsted pinwheel

 

The bright colors…

Northanger Abbey_blog
Northanger Abbey Shawl in Garden 10
Goldenrod in Flax
Goldenrod in Flax from Back to Natura
Seashells Hoodie in Deluxe DK Superwash from Fall Classics
Seashells Hoodie in Deluxe DK Superwash from Fall Classics

…with more natural tones.

Timbers Hat in Uptown DK
Timbers Hat in Uptown DK from e-book Mountain Ridge Knits
Emerald Isle Lap Blanket in Deluxe Worsted from 50 Knitted Gifts
Emerald Isle Lap Blanket in Deluxe Worsted from 50 Knitted Gifts

So many choices.  So many directions to explore.

Happy knitting!

 

 

 

Free Pattern Friday – Dockside Pullover in Flax

It’s Free Pattern Friday!

Dockside Striped Pullover in Flax

Today, it’s the Dockside Striped Pullover in Flax.

Ah, summer.  It hits us here in the South a little sooner than the rest of y’all.  But make no mistake, it’s on its way.  With that in mind, we bring you something light and airy for the move to warmer weather.

Dockside Striped Pullover in Flax - detailThe Dockside Striped Pullover uses a basic four row stitch pattern to create a breezy fabric.  It’s an easy-to-memorize fabric stitch, great for porch knitting.  Our Flax 100% linen is the perfect fiber for this, becoming more relaxed and comfortable with each washing – or accidental splash by the lake.

Stay cool – and keep on knitting!