Tag: knitspiration

Posted on

Collection Spotlight: My First Knits

Welcome to the My First Knits collection, designed to help you build your knitting skills step by step. From your very first stitches to your first sweater, we’ve got you covered. 

We kick it off with Freshman, a scarf that proves beginner knitting can make a major impact. Designed by Afifa Sayeed using squishy super-bulky Be Wool and the easiest stitch in the book, this piece is all about instant gratification.

Next up is Sophomore, designed by Alexandra Frankel. This cozy beanie is a cold-weather staple, with its classic lines and playful pompom. Deluxe Bulky Superwash makes for quick stitching with stunning results. 

Junior, designed by Afifa Sayeed, takes a simple shape and a splash of color, and gives you endless style. This shawl shows off the soft sheen and playful texture of Bamboo Bloom Handpaints, making it an instant statement piece.

The Senior legwarmers, designed by Alexandra Frankel, are all about warmth and style. Fashion meets fun in an all-over mock cable pattern with super-cute drawstring ties. They’re soft and durable too, thanks to our easy-care Uptown Worsted yarn.

Ready to tackle your first sweater? Look no further than the Graduate pullover, designed by Alexandra Frankel and Afifa Sayeed. Pairing basic raglan shaping with bold color, tweedy texture, and sporty stripes, Graduate balances simplicity and character in one perfect package with a winning combination of Deluxe Worsted Tweed Superwash and Deluxe Worsted Superwash. The color possibilities are endless.

With the My First Knits collection, you’ll become a seasoned knitter in no time! Shop the individual patterns on Ravelry, or immerse yourself in the complete e-book, including all five designs. And to make project prep even easier for you, we’ve marked all the yarns featured in this collection down by 20%, this weekend only! Stock up and save, now through Sunday, December 7.

We can’t wait to see what you create!

Afifa & Alex

Posted on

Collection Spotlight: Deluxe Men 2.0

Happy Friday, crafters! Here’s one for the fellas. With just enough time before the holidays to whip up a fabulous handmade gift for him, we are delighted to introduce the Deluxe Men 2.0 mini collection by Rachel Brockman, knit in our Deluxe Family yarns. Tailored lines meet contemporary details in three dapper pieces featuring rich texture, bold cables, and playful colorwork.

Costanza brings vintage sitcom charm to your needles in the form of a polished and preppy v-neck pullover. Intricate braided cables are the stars of this stylish sweater, with striped trim adding a sporty pop of color. Our Deluxe Worsted Superwash yarn makes for an easy-care piece that layers beautifully over a tee or collared shirt, and is soft enough to wear on its own.

Wrap up in a symphony of texture with the Erie scarf. Slipped stitch cables and garter ridges float across this oversized accessory, accented with fringe along each end for a classic look. Deluxe Worsted Tweed Superwash makes this piece sing with visual and tactile appeal, adding softness, comfort, and a handsome sprinkling of tweedy flecks.

No winter wardrobe is complete without a traditional colorwork sweater, and Foliose is the one to choose. Cozy and relaxed, this yoke pullover features a striking diamond motif in a trio of cool winter shades. Knit in Deluxe Worsted, this piece boasts crisp stitch definition and insulating warmth, perfect for outdoor adventures, après-ski, or lounging at home.

Each pattern is available for individual purchase on Ravelry, or you can snag ’em all and save with our Deluxe Men 2.0 e-book. And don’t forget the yarn! Enjoy 15% off the entire Deluxe Family, now through Sunday, November 23.

Happy knitting!

Alex

Posted on

Free Pattern Friday – Catawba River Poncho in Deluxe Bulky Superwash

Happy Free Pattern Friday, crafters! The Catawba River Poncho, designed by Amy Gunderson, with its richly textured cables and relaxed silhouette, has always been a standout design. Now, it’s been reimagined in Deluxe Bulky Superwash, bringing new life and new possibilities to this beloved piece.

This poncho’s generous shape drapes comfortably, while the turtleneck adds extra warmth without being restrictive. Paired with jeans and flats for a casual day out, or layered over a dress for a polished look, the Catawba River Poncho is as versatile as it is stylish. 

Whether you’re revisiting the design or discovering it for the first time, knitting the Catawba River Poncho in Deluxe Bulky Superwash gives you a project that’s equal parts relaxing and rewarding. Shown in 918 Dusty Blue, the updated yarn choice makes it modern, practical, and ready for a place in your fall wardrobe.

Why Deluxe Bulky Superwash? This yarn is everything you want for a project like the Catawba River Poncho. With its soft hand, excellent stitch definition, and easy-care superwash finish, it highlights the cables beautifully while keeping the poncho light, lofty, and wearable. The bulky gauge also means your stitches fly off the needles, so you’ll be wrapped in cozy style in no time. This weekend only, get 20% off this squishy base. I myself am eyeing 939 Burgundy. How about you?

Happy Crafting,

Afifa

Posted on

Free Pattern Friday – Mix and Match Hats

Happy Friday! This week we have the Mix and Match Hats fresh off our circular knitting needles, using Uptown Worsted. These chic, eye-catching hats, designed by Rachel Brockman, are great go-to accessories for adding a pop of color to your outfit. They’re warm and cozy, making them the perfect project to choose next – especially since we’re gearing up for the fall.

One ball of each shade is enough to make both of these hats, reversing the colors for the second one. That means you can make one for yourself and one as a gift! Share with your best friend, coordinate with your partner, or craft these matching cuties for your kiddos and watch them frolic in the falling leaves, knowing their little noggins are safe from the cool, crisp air.

Imagine these little beauties in any two colors of Uptown Worsted–there are so many to choose from and so many possible combinations! You can support your favorite sports team or pick school colors, or even put together two similar shades to create a more subtle look. I’m dreaming of a light grey and black combo since spooky season is upon us!

Whatever you choose, your Mix and Match Hats will be the epitome of comfort and durability. Knit in the 100% anti-pilling acrylic strands of Uptown Worsted, these hats are super-soft and machine-washable to boot! Grab this stash staple yarn at 20% off, now through Sunday, September 14.

Enjoy every stitch,

Chloe

Posted on

Free Pattern Friday – Ghostly Gourds

Spooky season is upon us! There’s no better time for a Halloween cast-on, and we have just the project for you! I’m thrilled to make my Free Pattern Friday design debut with Ghostly Gourds, a frightfully-fun pair stuffed jack-o’-lanterns, knit in Uptown Worsted.

Ghostly Gourds are the perfect treat for your needles, and they utilize some clever tricks too. Duplicate stitch gives these cuddly cuties their eerie faces, and a simple shaping technique defines their pumpkin-y ridges. Stockinette stitch with the yarn held double makes for such fast knitting that you’ll have a finished project before you can say “boo!”

Display these jolly jack-o’-lanterns on your mantle or window sill, poised to greet costumed kiddos or guests at your Halloween bash. Or throw on your favorite scary movie, grab a mug of mulled cider, and get comfy, because these plump pumpkins are ripe for a snuggle!

Ghostly Gourds are squishably soft and durable, thanks to Uptown Worsted’s 100% anti-pilling acrylic base. Easy to care for and available in over 60 colors, this staple yarn makes beautiful garments, accessories, and home decor that will last for years to come.

Uptown Worsted yarn and kits are 20% off through Sunday, September 14. Stock up on this best-seller, snag a Ghostly Gourds Kit (including the pattern and all the yarn you need!), and create something truly spooktacular!

Happy hauntings!

Alex

Posted on

Free Pattern Friday – Love Language Cardigan

Happy Free Pattern Friday, crafters!! Get ready to fall head over heels for a bold new pattern in a brand new yarn – the effortlessly charming Love Language Cardigan by Rachel Brockman, knit in Maman!

From the cropped fit to the folded collar to the brightly-colored heart motif, the Love Language Cardigan is packed with eye-catching details that will make your heart sing. Our Maman yarn brings softness and warmth to this chunky layering piece, giving it the feel of a loving embrace. Over a dress or paired with jeans and a tee, this darling cardi is pretty as a picture no matter how you choose to style it!

New for Fall 2025, single-ply Maman feels like an absolute dream! Made of 100% acrylic and available in an array of semi-solids and playful prints, Maman captures the look of a hand-dyed yarn at a price point your wallet will adore. Lush and lofty, this bulky-weight beauty creates cozy garments and accessories in a snap!

Are you feeling the love? Grab your yarn today and cast on a Love Language Cardigan of your very own.

Happy knitting!

Alex

Posted on

Flash Pattern Friday – Melon Seed Set

What’s sweet as can be and bursting with fresh summer fun? Why, this week’s Flash pattern of course! Every day’s a picnic when your little one is sporting the matching pullover and socks in Rachel Brockman’s adorable Melon Seed Set. Enjoy the pattern for free, this weekend only, using coupon code FLASH on Ravelry.

This clever design utilizes colorwork and contrasting trim in three vibrant shades to mimic a ripe, refreshing watermelon – the perfect summer treat! Both beginner-friendly pieces are worked in the round from the top down, and make great intro projects for anyone wanting to dip a toe into stranded knitting.

Worked up in soft and supple Uptown Bamboo DK, the Melon Seed Set is the ideal balance of cozy and light. This set is made for playing, and the machine-washable blend of bamboo and anti-pilling acrylic ensures easy care and durability, so your kiddo can do just that.

Uptown Bamboo DK is 20% off, now through Sunday, June 29th. You’ll love the smooth texture, subtle sheen, and exquisite stitch definition this yarn brings to any project, so be sure to stock up and take advantage of this awesome discount!

Happy knitting!

Alex

Posted on

Free Pattern Friday – Wild Thyme Popover

Happy Free Pattern Friday, yarniacs! Can you believe it’s May already? We’re loving the warm sunshine and fragrant blossoms, so we’re thrilled to share a new design that’s sure to become a springtime staple – the Wild Thyme Popover!

This adorable top by Andi Javori features lace, texture, and variegated tones in one perfect package. With its beginner-friendly construction and oversized, boxy silhouette, the Wild Thyme Popover is the epitome of easy breezy. And it’s versatile too! Stay cool and casual when you style Wild Thyme as a tee, paired with jeans, shorts, or a skirt. Or layer over long sleeves to continue sporting your favorite new sweater into the autumn and winter months.

The Wild Thyme Popover gets its rustic charm and beautiful blend of color from Fibra Natura Cobblestone. This 100% superwash merino wool yarn twists a colorful variegated ply with a coordinating solid ply to create unique hues with a handspun appearance. With a palette ranging from bold brights to pretty pastels and everything in between, you can customize your Wild Thyme Popover with a color that’s just right for you!

This weekend only, Fibra Natura Cobblestone is on sale at 20% off. Grab a few skeins to make your popover, and a few more for socks, shawls, hats, you name it!

Happy knitting!

Alex

Posted on

Collection Spotlight: Petit Chou

Delicate, charming, and endlessly wearable, the Petit Chou Mini Shawl Collection is a sweet celebration of effortless style. Featuring soft, lightweight designs knit in Fonty’s cozy yet refined yarns, these mini shawls are perfect for adding a pop of color to any outfit.

Hello! Alex here! I’m thrilled to debut my first-ever designs for Universal in this collection! First, meet Cherie (above), a narrow scarf knit in luxurious Moustache, an oh-so-soft blend of merino, mohair, and silk. The yarn lends a floaty, ethereal quality to this piece, while the diagonal ridge stitch adds depth and texture. My favorite detail is Cherie’s distinctive pointed ends, designed to resemble the feather fletching on an arrow.

Delfine (above left) is the epitome of elegance, with its graceful, elongated-crescent silhouette, edged in romantic lace. Cloud-like Ombelle bathes the shawlette in a halo of delicate fluff, enhancing the softness and sophistication of the piece. With 60 stunning shades to choose from, you can make a Delphine shawlette to complement any piece in your wardrobe.

Add a burst of color and style to your neckline with the beginner-friendly Solange mini shawl (above right). This chic little number features eyelet stripes spanning a stockinette background, neatly framed with a garter border and knit up in soft and sleek Soyeuse yarn. Cute and casual, Solange is the cherry on top of any ensemble!

Hiya, this is Afifa! My contributions to this collection start with Cielle – a mini kerchief knit with cozy and luxurious Mongolia 5. Cielle is soft, light, and just the right size to toss on for that effortlessly chic “I just threw this on” vibe. Whether you’re taming flyaways, jazzing up a simple outfit, or need a neck warmer for chilly mornings, this cutie’s got your back (or neck or head!). Plus, knitting it up is quick and satisfying—like a little treat for your needles.

Meet Daphne (above left)- as delightful to knit as it is to wear! Crafted with Tartan 3, a 100% superwash fine wool yarn, Daphne offers a soft, cozy feel with a touch of elegance. This charming accessory features an engaging lace pattern that adds a hint of sophistication to any outfit. Whether you’re dressing up for a night out or adding a stylish layer to your everyday look, Daphne is the perfect companion. Plus, with Tartan 3’s slightly mottled, tone-on-tone colors, you can choose the perfect shade to match your style.

Knit with Aubusson, Violette (above right) offers unparalleled softness and warmth. Available in a wide range of colors, Aubusson allows you to personalize Violette to match your style perfectly. This plump yarn is a joy to knit with and super quick to boot.

Reine marks our first design collaboration. Our love of texture and lace allowed us to use this opportunity to combine our collective passions with our individual styles to create something truly unique. The merino and yak strands of Mongolia 3 bring beautiful stitch definition to this piece, while mini tassels add a touch of whimsy.

We hope you enjoy this little labor of love as much as we do!

Alex and Afifa

Posted on

March’s Spotlight Friday – Happy Joy Hoodie

It’s the second Friday of the month, and that means it’s time to spotlight another one of our all-time faves! This month, we’ve chosen a pattern that’s sure to make your little one the envy of the playground – the adorable Happy Joy Hoodie by our very own Universal Yarn Design Team!

This comfy cardi is knit flat in pieces from the bottom up and seamed. Stitches are picked up to add a cozy hood and ribbed button band. The Happy Joy Hoodie is knit in two colors of our popular Bamboo Pop yarn – one solid and one multi – to create vibrant stripes. Garter rows bring a playful texture to the sweater.

This cute little number is sure to elicit a smile from your kiddo when they see the beautiful, bright colors and feel the silky softness of Bamboo Pop. And just think how sweet they’ll look bundled up in their favorite new hoodie!

Bamboo Pop is a blend of 50% bamboo and 50% cotton, making it ideal for light-weight, multi-season garments and accessories. And with its soft feel, machine-washability, and palette of over 60(!!) colors, Bamboo Pop is the perfect choice when crafting for children. You’ll love knitting with this yarn as much as your little one loves wearing it!

Enjoy $3 off each skein of Bamboo Pop purchased through Monday, March 17th. And while you’re at it, check out all the amazing deals on select yarn and muud products in our St. Patrick’s Day Sale!

Happy knitting!

Alex