The delightful and brilliant Ann Weaver of Weaverknits visited Space this weekend, teaching two workshops – Color Theory for Knitters and the Albers Cowl. We’ve long been impressed by Ann’s distinctive color sense and her chic patterns, which are inspired by such diverse things as modern art, punk rockers, and the Dutch speed skating team. Her enthusiastic and generous teaching style attracted more than just the class participants this weekend, and most of us are casting on for Albers Cowls this weekend (if you want to join us, the book’s available online or at the shop!).
For an Albers Cowl, you’ll want to select between 4 and 7 colors of fingering weight yarn. Neighborhood Fiber Co. Penhouse Silk Fingering would be a good choice here, or even the new Squoosh Merino Cashmere Sock. Try to pick colors with which you want to experiment – and don’t hesitate to ask the staff for help if you’re feeling overwhelmed!
If you were hoping to start with fewer colors than that, try the Honeycomb Shawl, which combines fun and interesting lace with a contrasting edge for some color adventure. It, too, would be gorgeous in NFC Silk Fingering or one of Sanguine Gryphon‘s many fingering-weight options.
If cowls aren’t your thing, you might try Ann’s lovely Tiny Brocade Cardigan, which is knit in cotton and would be a perfect layer for spring and summer evenings. Blue Sky Alpacas Dyed Cotton offers wonderful color options for the patterned yoke, or you might try Spud & Chloe Sweater (a blend of 55% wool and 45% cotton) if you’re feeling crazy. You can buy the pattern online through Ravelry or Weaverknits.
Another lovely option for evening layering is Silhouette, which features the color experimentation of the Albers Cowl with delicate shaping to flatter any figure. Ann brought the sample for this sweater with her to the shop, and looking at the different yarns that went into it was a reminder that experimentation yields wonderful results. Try Madelinetosh Tosh Sock or Tosh Light, The Fibre Company Canopy Fingering, or any other fingering-weight yarn that strikes your fancy.
Whatever you choose, Ann’s designs will delight you and teach you more about the craft than you knew before. Get clicking!