July 18, 2019

"... What`s that pattern?"

As you might guess, I get asked that a lot on our social media accounts (and almost never remember the answer), so I decided to start keeping track of the patterns you likely see me wearing in the shop so that we (collectively) can remember what in the world I knit.

At the moment, I`ve got colorwork on the brain, mostly because I love an excuse to play with color combos. And, playing with multiple colors usually opens up more yarn options for me. Fair Isle is also a great thicker fabric for winter weather, and as the weather keeps cooling down, I am getting more intrigued by projects that require me to focus and pay attention. One of the habits I have set to pick up for winter is to carve out specific time for my knitting in my planner each day, so it becomes part of an evening wind-down from the day. The attention that colorwork requires can be so good for focusing and being present, rather than being taken away by the stress of the day. The two patterns below are already in my wardrobe. Each one was fairly easy to navigate, with rows that were easy to memorize quickly, while the two-color stranded work kept the brain focused. If you are looking for a meditative knit, I highly recommend them both.

In addition to the brand new yarns we received from hand dye company Malabrigo this week, we are also freshly restocked on Arroyo, Sock, Rios and Caracol!

Arroyo DK is perfect for everyday garments and accessories. Next-to-skin-soft machine-washable wool means it’s easy to take care of and to wear, making it a great choice for kids and babies!

Don’t be fooled by the name Sock—while it’s certainly a treat for the feet, this delightful yarn is also a favorite for lightweight garments, shawls, and scarves, in a gorgeous range of semi-solid and multi-colored shades.

Rios’ durable 4-ply twist resists pilling and gives great definition to your stitches, and its machine-washability makes it fantastic for frequently-worn garments, home goods, and children’s and baby clothes.

Inspired by hand-spun yarns, Caracol starts with a bulky thick-and-thin single ply of Malabrigo’s delightfully soft machine-washable Merino wool, criss-crossed with a black binder thread that gives the dyed yarn a gorgeous stained-glass effect. Perfect for winter accessories and snuggly blankets, Caracol works up into cozy, fluffy fabrics with a ton of texture and visual interest—simple stitch patterns really let it sing!

Land in space and grab yours today!

We love the kettle-dyed colors of Uruguay’s Malabrigo Yarn (and we know you do too!), so we’re delighted that now we have even more of their gorgeous (and mostly machine-washable!) yarns joining our in-store lineup of Arroyo, Caracol, Rasta, Rios, Sock, and Torzal: meet Brisa and Ultimate Sock!

Brand new from Malabrigo, Brisa is a soft and airy blend of fine Merino wool, Cupro (a plant-based fibre made from reclaimed cotton waste) and silk, with a fluid drape and subtle sheen. A round 3-ply twist gives your stitches beautiful definition in lightweight garments, flowing tops, shawls, scarves, lace, and delicate accessories.

Machine-washable Ultimate Sock blends Malabrigo’s beloved superwash Merino wool with nylon for added strength. A sturdy 4-ply twist and generously sized skeins are perfect for socks, hats, baby garments, and other items that get lots of wear.

Check them out in space and get stitching today!

This #ScholarlySunday we`re cozying up with a copy of Shetland Shades: Stories in Wool. This homage to Gudrun Johnston`s Shetland roots features 12 knitting patterns that center richly hued vests, beautiful hats and scarves. Grab your copy in space or online!

New from the Italian yarnmaker Laines du Nord - machine-washable Nordik Socks! This yarn is designed to give you two perfectly matching striped socks per ball—all you have to do is stitch & watch the color-changing magic happen! With 458 yards in each ball, this fingering weight blend of 75% wool & 25% nylon will have you making sturdy, cozy socks, hats & baby sweaters for everyone you know. Grab yours in space today!