Happy Free Pattern Friday, folks! Today we bring you McKenzie, a cozy, cabled crochet pullover designed by me, Ashley Jane McIntyre.
This sweater is crocheted in pieces, then seamed, and it’s made using a simple half double crochet stitch so that the cable panel is center stage. For the Front piece, you will begin by working a ribbed hemline, moving into a section of even length based on size, which then flows into the statement cable motif worked along the main body length, and finally creating the scoop neck shape. This neck shaping extends lines from the center cable up and over to each side so that the post stitches align with the ribbing to create a continuous flow of texture. All of the cabling and shaping is graded across multiple sizes and is also written and charted for your convenience. This thoughtful design was made with visual supports so that any adventurous beginner could approach this project with confidence.
The yarn featured in this design is called Offbeat, named for the irregular lengths of self-striping yarn which add a bit of intrigue and fun. It comes in eight heathered shades with quirky names like “Tubular,” “Wicked,” or “Far Out,” which is seen in this week’s sweater. Offbeat offers more than amusing colors, though. It’s super soft blend of 90% acrylic and 10% alpaca is a delight to work with and is suitable for an assortment of projects from garments to baby projects, and even home décor. It is easy to care for, as it’s machine washable, and it boasts 586 yards per 150g ball, making it an easy choice for one-ball-wonders or blankets.
Whether you feel called to crochet the McKenzie pullover, cast on the Log Cabin Blankie Kit, or to try a one-ball project like Snapdragon or Foxglove, you’ll want to stock up on Offbeat today. Shop now – Sunday 12/3 to get 20% off of this wonderful yarn! That’s all for today, happy stitching! Ashley Jane McIntyre
It’s the first Friday of April, and we have some excitement we want to pass along to you. Not only is this week’s Free Pattern Friday for knitters and crocheters alike, but we are also having a sitewide sale! So let’s jump right in and learn more about today’s treat to you, and when you’re all wrapped up here (pun intended), head over to our site for some spring savings!
Foxglove wrap crocheted with OffbeatSnapdragon wrap knit with Offbeat
Since we have two patterns to cover this Friday, let’s start by looking at the crochet version, Foxglove. This free pattern designed by Ashley Jane McIntyre shows off a beautifully textured Herringbone Lace Pattern featured throughout with our Offbeat yarn. You will crochet from the bottom up along the widest edge of the wrap to create a beautiful sequence of defined stripes. Just one cake of the Offbeat is required, as each skein contains a generous 586 yards of yarn!
Close up of Foxglove with its gorgeous texture from the Herrington lace patternClose up of Snapdragon and the beautiful cable and lace repeats
Now let’s take a look at the knitted Snapdragon wrap designed by Aubrey Busek, also featuring Offbeat. This wrap features an enticing cable and lace pattern that repeats throughout to give this accessory a beautiful design. This piece is knit flat from the bottom up, with gorgeous self-striping occurring from top to bottom. While both samples use Offbeat color 104 Vibes, this self-striping yarn includes eight total color choices that would look just as good!
101 – Peace109 – Dream On110 – Far Out
The color palette of Offbeat has some options that are perfect for spring projects. Try out 101 Peace for an array of colors similar to cotton candy at a spring ball game. Or try out 109 Dream On for a pastel look that matches the season flawlessly. If you’re looking for bolder colors that match springtime, you might like 110 Far Out, with its more defined colors. Whichever color you choose, we know that you will create something unique to you. Make sure to share all your finished projects with us on social media!
Don’t miss out on our Easter Sale through Sunday, April 9th. Save 20% off sitewide – no code needed!
With this year coming to a close, we’re all wondering what is next for 2023. You might be thinking about your resolutions and goals for the year ahead, or perhaps a new project you’d like to get started on.
Every year, Pantone releases their ‘Color Of The Year’, which influences industries around the globe from things like paint manufacturers, to fashion brands, and all the way to yarn. The Color Of The Year is meant to be a forecast of the general mood for the year ahead, give direction to companies for product development, and serve as inspiration to all of us. The color for 2023 is Viva Magenta. So, lets dive into the Magentaverse!
Image sourced from Pantone’s Color Of The Year Report
Viva Magenta is a vibrant and bold shade that is a hybrid of red and pink. It immediately feels like a strong, expressive color, and is deeply rooted in nature. It has an almost rebellious tone to it, and is a fearless hue you can proudly sport in amounts both great and small.
Image sourced from the Smithsonian
Although Viva Magenta feels a bit futuristic to look at, this color has ancient roots, being directly derived from Cochineal. These are scaly insects, which have been used for centuries to create powder dyes and colorants used for textiles, cosmetics, food, and more. If you’d like to read more about this interesting and historical process, please check out this article from the Smithsonian.
With the roots of this color being its use for natural dyes, it is no surprise that we can find Viva Magenta in so many yarns! From solids to multis, many of the yarns in our line feature this strong color. As Viva Magenta is a blend of pink and red, I’ve included some options for yarns that lean toward both sides of the hue, and hopefully will provide great inspiration for your next project!
The Crimson Tee, a free pattern in Bamboo Pop Sock
Speaking of projects, I’ve selected some patterns that I think are perfect solutions for the 2023 Color Of The Year inspiration. First, I wanted to share the Crimson Tee. This free pattern was designed by Aubrey Busek (that’s me!) and uses our Bamboo Pop Sock yarn in the color 608 Pomegranate. This simple knit tee is sized from XS-5X, and has a relaxed silhouette that works for any occasion. The touches of lace are worked along the hemline of the body and sleeves, and panels of lace decorate the body. The Crimson Tee is a bold, fearless use of the Viva Magenta color, perfect for entering the new year with a bang.
The Parlamak Shawl in Noelle
For the crochet enthusiast, try the Parlamak Shawl! Designed by Brittany Garber, this sophisticated shawl is made using our Noelle yarn in the color 303 Pixie. I love that this shawl is simple and chic, so the vibrant red and pink colors in the yarn are really the focal point of the piece. Noelle has different shades that flow from one to the next throughout the skein, and its metallic core makes it extra special. This yarn is currently on sale, so don’t miss out on a great deal before its gone!
The Rose Garden Sweater in self-striping Offbeat
If you have a little one in your life to knit for, try the Rose Garden Sweater! Sized from 1-10 years old, this sweater is great for school days and fun outings. The cabled pattern on the body is easy to memorize, and adds just enough textural interest to not distract from the bold stripes created by the yarn. Offbeat is a blend of 90% acrylic and 10% alpaca that has been a hit since its launch in 2022. And it’s no question why: with a luxurious feel, bold colors, and 586 yards per skein, it is a great choice for all projects from blankets to sweaters. The color used for the Rose Garden sweater is 102 Tubular, and I love how the bold pops of red look with the soft neutral tones in this shade.
Image sourced from Pantone
Pairing Viva Magenta with soft neutral colors as seen in our Offbeat yarn (above) is exactly what is suggested by Pantone. The soft and dusty shades shown in their Color Of The Year report compliment Viva Magenta, but never take away from it being the focal point. However, if you prefer bright shades, do your thing! I think Viva Magenta would look wonderful paired with bright purple or hot pink. As with anything, you should do what speaks to YOU. Colors are personal, and a great way to express yourself.
Image sourced from PinterestPomegranate Path Set
The last pattern I wanted to highlight was the Pomegranate Path set, designed by Rachel Brockman. New from our 12 Days of Winter Kit Collection, Series 6, this cabled hat and scarf set is perfect for just about anyone on your ‘to-knit-for’ list. The color of Deluxe Worsted Tweed used for this pattern is 921 Beet, but the pattern itself was named after the delicious fruit that also boasts the same color. When I was looking for inspiration for Viva Magenta on Pinterest, tons of photos of pomegranates immediately came up. They are my favorite fruit, so I knew I had to include this pattern!
Image from Pinterest Image from Pinterest
No matter how you want to explore the ‘Magentaverse‘, I can imagine that there is a shade of Viva Magenta that speaks to you. Personally, I think this color sets a wonderful tone for 2023. The past couple of years have been a rollercoaster for everyone on Earth in ways both great and small, and we can all benefit from the sense of inner strength that this type of bold color projects. I hope you get inspired, and have fun picking out some Magenta yarn for your next project!
We’ve received wonderful feedback from our customers about our initiative to highlight the local yarn stores we know and love so much. The Knittin’ Coop is the store we are featuring for the month of November!
Front of The Knittin’ Coop – a perfect place to sit and work on your project
The Knittin’ Coop… what a name. Whether you’re a long-time customer, or just visiting, this is the name of a place that feels like home. If you travel to Salem, Virginia, you’ll find this cozy spot filled with a whole bunch of yarn! Robin Ferguson is the owner of The Knittin’ Coop, which opened back in August 2019.
Her store exists in an area that is home to many college students, as Roanoke College is right across the street. She says many of those students come by to the store to practice their knitting and crocheting. We love to see young people passionate about the knit/crochet community!
Opening the shop was a decision she made because of her lifelong exposure to knitting and crocheting from her mother and grandmother. It has always been a part of her life, so why not make it a career path? Now let’s take a look at what she has inside The Knittin’ Coop!
Offbeat in all 7 colors at The Knittin’ Coop
Universal Yarn is proud to be stocked on the shelves of The Knittin’ Coop. Some of our yarns featured on their shelves include Offbeat (pictured above), Bamboo Pop, Bamboo Pop Sock (solid version too), and Radiant Cotton. Robin mentions in our interview that due to the climate of Virginia, DK weight yarns are popular in her store.
She mentions Bamboo Pop Sock seems to be one of the favorites among her customers. She went along to say that this yarn is consistently used to create garments, shawls, and of course, socks.
Shawls seem to be a favorite project of The Knittin’ Coop customers, and it is no surprise, given what a versatile accessory they are. Sweaters also become a popular option for The Knittin’ Coop customers around the autumn season, which is when most of us get excited to start on some warmer projects!
Interior of The Knittin’ Coop
One of our favorite things about The Knittin’ Coop is the up-to-date website. They have a clear calendar of events that makes it easy for any guest to know what’s going on at the store. Their store features many different classes, from beginner classes to private lessons, and even some seasonal offerings! Check out their website to learn more.
Lastly, if you’re thinking about stopping by The Knittin’ Coop. Rudy the shop dog will be very happy to see you!
The Knittin’ Coop has a furry friend named Rudy
We are so grateful for the opportunity to feature The Knittin’ Coop, and we encourage you to check them out on social media. If you are in the Salem, VA area, we highly recommend checking out this beautiful shop!
If you are a local yarn shop interested in being featured by Universal Yarn, please reach out to us – we would love to interview you! Please email rferrel@universalyarn.com if you would like to be featured!
