Sweater – Page 8 – Universal Yarn Creative Network

January 13, 2021

Still Life – Six Painterly Projects to Knit

Today I’d like to highlight one of our more recent pattern collections, Still Life (link). It’s always fun to put together a pattern collection. This one is especially close to my heart because this is the last collaborative collection between our former creative director, the amazing Amy Gunderson, and myself. That means this collection has also been a long time in the making. Originally, these patterns were developed for another yarn, but sometimes things just don’t work out the way you originally planned. When we had to say goodbye to the intended yarn, we didn’t want to say goodbye to this collection. How could we? The pieces are all so beautiful. That’s why we reimagined them in our Deluxe Worsted Superwash and Deluxe Worsted Tweed. Today I’m going to share each of these projects with you and I hope you enjoy them as much as I do!

The first pattern in the collection is a contribution by Amy Gunderson. The show-stopping Chiaroscuro (pattern link). This seamless, top-down pattern features a bold slip-stitch colorwork motif across the circular yoke. I’ve always been a fan of mock-neck and turtle neck sweaters. As someone who is perpetually chilly, they maximize my comfort during the winter months. So, the high, ribbed neckband of Chiaroscuro is perfect for me. I also love the contrast color rolled stockinette trim that decorates the hem and sleeve cuffs. This is a casual piece that is begging to be knit. Our sample uses Deluxe Worsted Tweed which gives it a rustic appeal. However, if tweedy nubs aren’t your thing, simply use Deluxe Worsted Superwash instead – the yarns are totally interchangeable!

Chiaroscuro by Amy Gunderson in Deluxe Worsted Tweed

Next, we have Delft (pattern link), knit in Deluxe Worsted Superwash. This is my design, and while I don’t mean to boast, I have to say I just love it! I’ve worn the original sample of this design so much! It’s the perfect layering piece. The raglan shaping ensures a great fit. Twisted ribbing pops along with the hem and button bands, but what I love most are the horizontal bars created by using slipped stitches. Delft is another seamless pattern and is knit from the bottom up. You work the body and sleeves separately and join them at the underarms and complete the sweater in one piece.

Delft by Rachel Brockman in Deluxe Worsted Superwash

Those who love a good sampler project will enjoy Leyster (pattern link), designed by Amy Gunderson. This lengthy scarf is perfect for wrapping around your shoulders during the cool months of autumn and winter. The design is loaded with textural motifs that are a blast to knit, and you won’t get bored because the motifs alternate frequently. Leyster is an excellent project for a beginner knitter ready to tackle something more interesting than garter stitch.

Leyster by Amy Gunderson in Deluxe Worsted Superwash

Another project that uses Deluxe Worsted Superwash is the cozy shawl, Pointillé (pattern link). Like all of the designs in this collection, Pointillé is richly textured. It features three lovely colors. I love the crescent-shape of this shawl and find that it drapes around the neck and shoulders so easily. The stitch patterns are easily memorized and addictive to knit. The finishing touch is a crocheted picot trim – admittedly a design feature I can’t get enough of!

Pointillé by Rachel Brockman in Deluxe Worsted Superwash

Although I always say I favor knitting sweaters and hats, shawls are also high on the list of my favorite things to knit. They come in all shapes and sizes with varied construction methods. I’ve never really been bored with a shawl. Angular, asymmetrical triangles are a popular shawl shape, likely because of their modern design appeal. Verdigris (pattern link) falls into the asymmetrical triangle category, but with a twist. Stitches are actually increased on two sides of a cable panel, breaking this pattern up into beautiful and interesting sections.

Verdigris by Amy Gunderson in Deluxe Worsted Tweed

The final piece in the collection is another pullover: Vermillion (pattern link) in Deluxe Worsted Tweed. This pullover features bracelet length sleeves, slip stitches, cables, and a sweet split hem on the front. I designed the hem so that the ribbing shifts neatly into the center panels. I’m pretty sure this piece is going to be a favorite of mine to wear during the transitional seasons!

Vermillion by Rachel Brockman in Deluxe Worsted Tweed

I hope you’ve enjoyed taking a look at the patterns in the Still Life collection! We’re so happy with how this collection turned out. Which projects do you plan to put on your knitting needles? Do you have a favorite piece in the collection? We’d love to know in the comments!

Happy crafting!

November 18, 2020November 18, 2020

Little Stitches: Projects for Little Ones

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.

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.

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!

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 (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!)

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).

Happy crafting!

October 23, 2020October 23, 2020

Free Pattern Friday – Atotoztli

It’s Free Pattern Friday!

woman in blue pullover with Fair Isle sleeves

Today, Atotztli in Deluxe Worsted Tweed Superwash (pattern link here). Atotztli was originally part of Deluxe Worsted Tweed Superwash: The Aztec Collection. The collection features gorgeous graphic knits in – you guessed it – Deluxe Worsted Tweed Superwash.

In Atotztli, texture, stripes and fun Fair Isle come together in fun ways. Check out that funnel neck!

In this pullover, the front and back are worked flat. The sleeves are worked in the round up until the raglan shaping. The shoulder join appears as a striking demarcation between solid and stranded color work, for even greater visual impact.

We like how Amy Gunderson softened the colors by using a tweedy yarn that features elements of several of the colors, to unify the piece. This is a gorgeous piece for fall!

We hope you have a fabulous weekend.

Happy crafting!

September 25, 2020September 25, 2020

Free Pattern Friday – Marley

It’s Free Pattern Friday!

Today, Marley in Alaska and Whisper Lace (pattern link here). Isn’t this just beautiful?

Marley manages to be cozy, while still being delicate.

The hem is worked in Fibra Natura Whisper Lace, a blend of silk and superwash wool with a luminous sheen. To keep the body and hem in color harmony, the Whisper Lace is held with a strand of Rozetti Alaska, a lofty yarn with a lovely alpaca halo.

So soft. Soooo soft.

It’s just the thing if you’re looking for warmth without weight, all with immaculate style.

We hope you have a fantastic weekend. Happy crafting!

September 9, 2020September 9, 2020

Modern Mosaic – Bamboo Pop

This week, we are celebrating the release of another new collection: Modern Mosaic. This collection includes 4 mosaic knits in Bamboo Pop. Bamboo Pop is our 50/50 bamboo and cotton blend yarn that is perfectly suited to warm weather garments and accessories. It is light and cool, with a vibrant color palette of solids, multis, and dots to choose from. I often hear that Bamboo Pop is many people’s favorite yarn, and I can see why. If you haven’t tried it yet, now is the perfect time!

Mosaic knitting is a really interesting type of color work. It utilizes two contrasting colors of yarn, knitting the stitches on each row in the dominant color and slipping the stitches that are in the contrast color. You work two rows with a dominant color, and then it changes for the next two rows. The charts in each pattern tell you which color is the dominant one for that set of rows. Mosaic knitting lends itself well to geometric patterns, and creates really bold and stunning color work. I have to admit, I was a bit intimidated to do my first mosaic designs, but now I love it!

Areca was inspired by black and white tile work and features a bold pattern throughout the front and back. Designed by Yonca Ozbelli, this top is sized from A-K and has a modern, boxy fit. Areca is perfect for those who love an interesting construction; the front and back are joined at the shoulder with a three-needle bind-off, and then the side panels and edging are created by picking up stitches along the left and right sides. I love the bold and graphic look of Areca, it’s an ‘all eyes on you’ kind of design.

Dypsis in 134 Blue Whisper and 127 Brambles

For those interested in dipping their toes into the mosaic knitting waters, Dypsis may be the perfect choice for you. Designed by Rachel Brockman, Dypsis features a traveling mosaic pattern on the hemline that is repeated again for an unexpected shoulder detail. Dypsis is knit in the round from the bottom up, so the mosaic pattern is perfectly seamless. The front and back are separated at the underarm, then worked flat. They are joined at the shoulders with a three-needle bind-off, and a garter edging is picked up and knit for the neckline.

The thoughtful choice of the mosaic hem and shoulders really makes Bamboo Pop shine, and the design looks timeless and sophisticated. Mosaic knitting can seem intimidating if you haven’t tried it, but I think Dypsis would be perfect for just about anyone. I’d throw on a fun necklace with this and let the gorgeous pattern do the talking!

Palmetto in 102 Cream, 114 Super Pink, and 212 Bright Spot

One of my contributions to the Modern Mosaic collection is Palmetto. I’m never shy about the fact that I’m a ‘more is more’ kind of person. When I was prompted to design with mosaic, I knew I wanted to design something that featured a few different patterns. I have a serious affinity for textile design and was inspired by Ikat fabrics from Indonesia for Palmetto. The tassels on the ends are one of my favorite touches too. Everything is better with tassels.

My Ikat inspiration blossomed into a stitch sampler style stole that is oversized and sure to get lots of love from everyone who sees you made it. You can wear Palmetto so many different ways, and it will add joy to any outfit you choose. I wear pink year-round, but I think this would look equally great in a blue and white combination.

My second design for Modern Mosaic is Sabal. This is an open front jacket/poncho that has a relaxed, bohemian vibe. I stuck with my textiles inspiration for this one, but instead, looked at tropical locale home interiors. I wanted a soothing color combination and a geometric style mosaic pattern that felt meditative.

My favorite thing about Sabal is the construction. It is worked starting at the back in one piece. After you get to the neckline, you work across one side, bind off the neck stitches, then work each of the fronts separately. You pick up and knit an edging for the sides, and then the garment is folded in half and seamed, while and I-cord is worked over the fronts and neckline. Sabal is just so relaxed feeling, and I love that you can wear this as a jacket to go out, a cardigan around the house, or a beach cover up!

Now that you’ve seen the patterns in our Modern Mosaic collection, here’s even more exciting news. Two lucky winners will receive a pattern of their choice from the collection, and enough Bamboo Pop to make the pattern in their chosen size and colors. We love Giveaways! All you have to do to enter is follow us (Instagram), like our page (Facebook), like and comment on the giveaway post or another post from the collection. Only one entry per name, and the giveaway closes at 5 pm EST on 9/14. We will choose and announce our winners (one from Facebook and one from Instagram) on 9/15. You can enter on both social media platforms, but you can only win once. Good luck!

We can’t wait to see what you make with Bamboo Pop from Modern Mosaic!

January 27, 2020October 10, 2023

Needles Out! Knits for Guys with Sweater Envy

Have we all seen Knives Out? Or at least seen photos of Chris Evans wearing The Sweater?

This pullover became such a rage on the internet that Evans wound up getting one for his dog for Christmas.

Chris Evans and his dog wearing cream sweaters — 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

Image of man in black and blue cabled sweater knit in Dona yarn

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.

2. Anchorage Cardigan

Published in Interweave Knits Winter 2018 issue, the Anchorage Cardigan (Ravelry link) shares a few features with Infinite Diamonds. Both are designed by the amazing Amy Gunderson, and both feature Dona yarn.

The differences, though, are obvious. The Anchorage Cardigan features a textured back (in fact, a textured everything).

Saddle Shoulders create a lovely line. As you might guess from the shoulders, this sweater is worked in pieces and seamed.

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.

3. Greensboro Cardigan

Unlike the previous sweaters, the Greensboro Cardigan (pattern link here) is worked in Deluxe Worsted wool, on US size 7 (4.5mm) needles as opposed to size 6 (4mm).

This stitch pattern is very stretchy – something to keep in mind when picking your size.

As with the Anchorage Cardigan, if you’re proficient with crossing stitches, you can do this without using a cable needle. Amy Gunderson even has a blog tutorial for this design (and others from the Deluxe Cable Collection) on creating the set-in pockets and installing a zipper. She even made a special chart for the sleeve increases to help a new knitter here in the office.

4. Wesley Heights

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.

Amy Gunderson knitted this one for herself, and shares little tips (do you know how to spit-splice?) on our blog.

5. Kerf

Image of man wearing green cable knit pullover

Kerf (pattern link here) is knit in Deluxe Worsted Superwash, the machine washable sibling to the Deluxe Worsted used in Wesley Heights, above.

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.

…and one more for luck.

The Chapel Hill Vest (pattern link here) is a free pattern on our site!

Knit in Deluxe Worsted, the vest is worked in two pieces and seamed. Stitch patterns are written and charted.

The center cable is a fantastic focal point, surrounded by smaller cables and twisted stitches. Fabulous.

We hope you’re inspired to get your needles out, and cast on something warm and wonderful.

Happy crafting!

January 10, 2020January 10, 2020

Free Pattern Friday – Groove

It’s Free Pattern Friday!

Rear view of woman wearing knit hooded cardigan

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!

Woman wearing magenta cardigan knit in Dona yarn

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!

December 27, 2019December 27, 2019

Free Pattern Friday – Jora

It’s Free Pattern Friday!

Today, Jora knit in Adore (pattern link here). Even though this was available before as a pay pattern, I am super-excited to see it available for free now. This one’s been in my queue for a while now, and with holiday crafting done (the Sequoia in Deluxe Bulky Superwash I started for my daughter last year turned out great), I might finally have time to make something for myself!

Jora was originally part of the Attire to Adore collection (Ravelry link), an e-book of knit sweaters in machine-washable Adore designed to be beautiful and comfortable wardrobe staples. Jora didn’t get as much attention as some of its fancier sisters (the Willow Cardigan is also in my queue!) but to me, this design is the perfect “classic with a twist.”

This would be so easy to dress up or down. We styled it here with jeans, but imagine this over a skirt, with a coordinating pendant resting against the solid field of the sweater. Pretty!

This design ticks the “simple but not boring” box for a wardrobe staple. It’s not all stockinette – there’s an elegant, flowing cable down each sleeve to create interest and lengthen the line. We designed the originals in this collection in cool blues and grays, but I’m thinking… maybe autumn tones?

127 Hickory, 128 Gingerbread, 111 Banana, 131 White

Decisions, decisions.
Have a fantastic weekend.

Happy knitting!

December 6, 2019December 6, 2019

Free Pattern Friday – Woodlands Yoke Pullover

It’s Free Pattern Friday!

Today, the Woodlands Yoke Pullover in Deluxe Chunky (pattern link here). This beauty by Sandi Rosner has been in my queue for a while, but with forecasts of an especially chilly winter this year, I think it’s finally getting bumped to the top.

The main color here is Deluxe Chunky 5003 Musket. The neat thing about this color is that it’s undyed – this is the actual color from the sheep. It’s got a heathering effect that it gives good color depth even to large fields of knitting.

Sandi Rosner has designed a beautiful Fair Isle pattern here. There are actually quite a few colors in the Deluxe Chunky palette that would go nicely in this sweater, depending on whether you wanted to stick with the original autumnal shades or go more toward jeweltones or monochromes. I’m still mulling mine over – another reason it keeps slipping from the top of the queue – dithering over too many good options!

Maybe 91905 Rust Heather? I don’t know!!

We hope you stay comfy and cozy this weekend.

Happy crafting!

November 8, 2019November 8, 2019

Free Pattern Friday – Lace Tipped Cardigan

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.

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!