Springtime means different things to everyone, but it always makes me think of that scene in Bambi where Thumper explains what “twitterpated” means. I think the feeling is similar when we find new knitting patterns that we want to try. I could (and do) spend hours contemplating various combinations of yarns and patterns and needles. So of course, a new magazine just contributes to the excitement. The newest Knitscene just arrived, and it is pretty darn exciting.

If you have seen my projects on Ravelry and my queue, you know that I am slightly obsessed with lace leaves. This issue of Knitscene has an entire article on all of the different ways to knit leaves.  I could knit leaves into every garment I make til the end of time using what this article teaches. Among my favorites is the Leaf Net Stole, which can be worn as a casual summer shawl or a snugly evening scarf. This would be a great accessory in one of this seasons hot colors like mint (cockatoo if you follow the Pantone colors) or coral. Canopy fingering has amazing drape as well as all of the best color palate’s for summer.

I do love a good challenge in knitting, especially if it keeps my brain from thinking about work and other stress. That is why the Gingko Counterpanes Shawl caught my eye. It’s meant to look like ginko leaves, and it has a unique construction that involves a hybrid grafting technique to sew live stitches of one piece to the selvage edge of the second. I think that it would look amazing in any great hand-dye: Skein, Neighborhood Fiber Company, or Dragonfly. Kate from Dragonfly has some amazing greens that would be spot on for this shawl. (like I need more green sock yarn.)

I was also really excited to see a pattern that works wonderfully in self striping sock yarn. The Westport Shawl features a touch of delicate lace and plenty of flat stitched areas to show off the color changes. We have two striping sock yarns in the shop now – Noro Taiyo (combination of cotton, wool, nylon, and silk will keep you cool in the summer) and Crazy Zauberball (a merino and nylon blend that would be a little warmer).

Like all Interweave summer magazines, this one has several great options for knitted spring and summer tees. I am in love with the Quinn Sweater. Debbie Bliss “Eco Baby” is the perfect compliment to this pattern, and has so many colors too choose from, I am struggling to pick one.