We're here to help you stitch sustainability into every aspect of your making.
With our carefully curated selection of non-superwash, plastic-free yarns and notions, we have everything you need to get started on your next project - and the one after that.
Here's to a wardrobe of knits we love and want to wear for years to come!
Update: While our test knit application period is now closed, we do have a few test knit openings for the patterns Hueston Woods, Moss and Leaf, Aman, and Tales from the Cabin. If interested, email Jen directly at jen (at) making-stories (dot) com before December 15.
Here you will find all the information you need to choose a pattern to test knit for this issue. Issue 14 includes designs by 12 designers: 6 garments featuring cables, lace, and intricate texture patterns, and 6 accessories including socks, shawls, and a blanket that can also be worked as a scarf. The theme Forest Respite elicited some amazingly cozy, comfy, and unconventional elements by our designers, and there is something for every skill level. Unique designs, neutral colours, and lots of texture — this issue will have it all!
And for a third Issue in a row, tester forums will be open! Test knitters will have the opportunity to connect and chat in a warm and supportive environment via Slack hosted by our amazing Customer Happiness Manager, Isabell. As always, all pattern changes and questions will take place via Google Docs (as those are managed by our tech editors and test knit manager) but we do hope you'll enjoy this optional opportunity to engage with your fellow test knitters a bit more.
If you have have never test knit for us before, you can read more about being a test knitter for Making Stories here.
In an effort to stagger the workload for our test knitting managers and get the final pattern into the hands of our fabulous layout team faster, we have three different deadline periods. Those knitting smaller accessories will have approximately 6 weeks, larger and/or complex accessories will have 8 weeks, and all garments as well as the blanket will have 12 weeks to complete the project. You will find the deadline for each pattern under its description so please keep this in mind when selecting which pattern you would like to make. Please note that we make intentional decisions regarding the deadlines and ask that you apply for a particular pattern only if you feel confident you will be able to meet its due date.
We truly value the time our testers provide us to make the patterns the best they can be! Upon successful completion of your project and feedback survey by the due date applicable for your pattern, you'll receive either a 15% off discount code for our entire webstore (including yarn!) OR a 30% off discount code for any one print or digital copy of the Making Stories Magazine purchased through the Making Stories webshop.
Once you've had a chance to look over the patterns and sizes, head here to fill out the test knit application form where you can select your 1st and 2nd choices for the pattern you'd like to test. The application form will be open through December 1st. We will notify you by December 6th if we need you to make your chosen project and size so you can get your yarn ordered in plenty of time. The patterns will be shared on January 17th; see each pattern for its specific deadline (either March 2nd, March 16th, or April 13th). Please keep a pattern's deadline in mind as you make your test knit selection.
On to the best part! Be sure to scroll all the way to the bottom of this page to see all 12 patterns to choose from for this issue. We've chosen photos that are as representative as possible; some designs are still being knit so may change slightly from what's depicted. This also applies to yardage estimates and finished sizes: that information is subject to change as samples are completed and the patterns are finalized. If a discount is available for the yarn used in the pattern you'll see that as well. You may wish to check yarn prices ahead of choosing, as well as colours available, as that may impact your choice. You are welcome to use your preferred colours for any of the designs!
Sizing
The sizes listed under the design descriptions are finished object measurements and include ease recommendations. To pick the size you’d like to knit, simply add the ease recommendation to your own nude body measurements and choose the corresponding size. Example: Your nude chest circumference is 100 cm. The sweater you’d like to test knit has an ease recommendation of 5 cm and lists the following sizes: 83 (91, 99, 107, 115, 123, 131, 139) cm. Nude chest circumference + ease recommendation = 100 cm + 5 cm = 105 cm —> closest to size 4 (107 cm). You’re of course welcome to substitute the ease recommendation from the pattern with your preferred ease as well.
Happy planning!
NOTE: Once test knitting commences on January 17th, 2025, selected test knitters are asked to refer to their pattern's Google Doc for all up-to-date information as this page will not be updated after that date.
The design was inspired by an image on the moodboard - an autumn setting with a path winding through the trees. I like working with twisted stitches and many of my designs have an element of twisted rib in them. Hence this design has the twisted stitches meandering through the wrap as though forming pathways through tall trees of twisted rib, sometimes unevenly broken by a clearing of sorts.
This is an asymmetric triangular shawl. It begins with 1x2 twisted rib worked for a few inches. We then use 1x1 twisted cables to form the zigzag lines that will now separate the twisted rib from the stockinette. As the width of the shawl begins to increase, a combination of right and left twisted sts are introduced to break the twisted rib pattern in timely repeats. The design ends with a broad section of 1x2 twisted rib.
Techniques:
1/1 Twisted Cables, 1x2 Twisted Rib, Reading your knitting
Ginger Twist Studio Masham Mayhem 4-ply (75% British Blueface Leicester, 25% British Masham; 400 metres / 437 yards per 100 g)
1115 metres / 1220 yards
Sample shown is knit in colourway Toffee Apple.
From Ginger Twist Studio:
'Ginger’s Hand Dyed Masham Mayhem 4-ply is an incredibly lofty and bouncy fingering weight wool. This yarn is 100% British, and oh so soft!
Made from British fibre, spun in England, and dyed in Edinburgh; this yarn is truly a product of the U.K.
Whether you are using the Masham Mayhem for colourwork, a cardigan, blanket, shawl or hat, this bouncy and cuddle-worthy yarn is sure to impress!
Hand dyed in Edinburgh, Scotland.'
A 20% discount is available for Masham Mayhem 4-ply from Ginger Twist Studio.
One Size
Wingspan Length: 216 cm / 85”
Depth: 68 cm / 26.75”
Measurements are estimates and subject to change as patterns are finalized.
When thinking of a respite in the forest or a cabin I think of the comfort of a flannel shirt. That almost worn out plaid patterned shirt you’ve had for ages with colours starting to fade. I wanted to capture that feeling and softness of the pattern in something easier to carry with you on long walks with the trees, animals and weather as sole companions. That inspiration turned into Beaten Track Beanie.
The beanie is worked bottom up in mosaic knitting where you only work with one colour at a time. It has a triple folded brim for extra warmth and the crown only uses one type of decrease. It is worked in the same direction throughout with the same size needles. The brim is worked in three sections, first a patterned one, then in stockinette stitch that in the end is worked together with the cast on edge and with a final section of 1x1 rib ending up closest to the head for a better fit. For some extra bedazzle the patterned crown is finished with a pompom.
Techniques:
German Twisted Cast-On, Mosaic knitting, slip stitches, Reading charts
De Rerum Natura Ulysse (100% French mérinos d'Arles and Portuguese black merino; 185 metres / 202 yards per 50 g)
MC: 210 (245, 285) metres / 230 (270, 310) yards
CC: 80 (95, 110)) metres / 90 (105, 120) yards
Add 20 metres / 20 yards of CC for optional pompom.
Sample shown is knit in colourways Potimarron (MC) and Merlot (CC).
From De Rerum Natura:
'Ulysse is a woolen spun yarn made from a blend of white French Mérinos d'Arles (Provence) and black Portuguese merino (Alentejo valley) raised with a concern for the well-being of the animals and the valorisation of their wool.
'All the manufacturing stages of this yarn are carried out in a short circuit (France and Portugal for sourcing, Belgium or Italy for washing, France for spinning and dyeing) with a constant desire for traceability and to reduce its impact on the environment.'
A 15% discount is available for Ulysse from De Rerum Natura.
Sizes
1 (2, 3)
Finished hat circumference: 45 (50, 55) cm / 17.75 (19.75, 21.75)” – recommended to be worn with 5-10 cm / 2-4” of negative ease.
Hat circumference: 45 (50, 55) cm / 17.75 (19.75, 21.75)”
Length, with folded brim, not including pompom: 22.25 (23.25, 24.25) cm / 8.75 (9.25, 9.5)”
Length, brim (folded): 8 (8.5, 9) cm / 3.25 (3.25, 3.5)”
Measurements are estimates and subject to change as patterns are finalized.
I was inspired by the calmness of trees turning colors in autumn.
This is a circular yoke vest with a close-fitting neckline, side slits, and a deep hem. It is worked top down, in the round, on the yoke and body. After the yoke it is worked flat until you reach the underarm, then back and front are joined and worked in the round until you reach the side slits, where you work back and front separately again. The charted pattern is worked on the front only. The armholes are finished with twisted rib.
Techniques:
Backward Loop Cast-On, German Twisted Cast-On, Standard Bind-Off, Standard Bind-Off in pattern
Laxtons SheepSoft DK (100%; 220 metres / 241 yards per 100 g)
660 (704, 792, 856, 960) [1034, 1155, 1225, 1419, 1470] metres / 723 (771, 867, 937, 1050) [1132, 1265, 1342, 1554, 1610] yards
Sample shown is knit in colourway Bishopdale.
From Laxtons:
'100% British wool, sourced from the very finest flocks and treated with absolute care and attention. Using the exquisite Bluefaced Leicester for softness and Masham for durability, full traceability and sustainability – natural, renewable, biodegradeable. Low carbon footprint, fleece to finished yarn in less than 50 miles. Supporting British Farmers and UK manufacturing, high levels of animal welfare and 100% genuinely manufactured in the UK.'
Sizes:
1 (2, 3, 4, 5) [6, 7, 8, 9, 10]
Finished chest circumference: 84 (92, 102, 110, 116) [124, 134, 142, 150, 158] cm / 33 (36.25, 40.25, 43.25, 45.75) [48.75, 52.75, 56, 59, 62.25]” – recommended to be worn with 8 cm / 3.25” of positive ease at the chest.
Neck circumference: 44 (46, 46, 48, 52) [54, 54, 56, 58, 60] cm / 17.25 (18, 18, 19. 20.5) [21.25, 22, 22.75, 23.5]”
Yoke depth: 10.5 (11, 12.5, 13, 13.5) [14, 14.75, 14.75, 15.25, 15.75] cm / 4.25 (4.5, 4.75, 5, 5.25) [5.5, 5.75, 5.75, 6, 6.25]”
Armhole depth: 19 (19, 20, 20, 20) [20, 23, 23, 24.5, 24.5] cm / 7.5 (7.5, 7.75, 7.75, 7.75) [7.75, 9, 9, 9.5, 9.5]”
Side length from underarm: 24.5 (24.5, 23.5, 23.5, 26) [26, 24.5, 24.5, 27.5, 27.5] cm / 9.75 (9.75, 9.25, 9.25, 10.25) [10.25, 9.75, 9.75, 10.75, 10.75]”
Total body length: 54.5 (55, 56, 56.5, 60) [60.5, 62.5, 62.5, 67, 67.5] cm / 21.5 (21.75, 22, 22.25, 23.5) [23.75, 24.5, 24.5, 26.25, 26.5]”
Measurements are estimates and subject to change as patterns are finalized.
The Epicea Sweater is inspired by forest walks: cable patterns seem to be like tree trunks, and you can place little treasures found during your walk in the woods in its two large pockets. So just put on it and here you go for a relaxing walk.
Epicea is worked seamlessly from the top down. First the back yoke is worked flat and shaped with increases. Then stitches are picked up along the back shoulders to shape the right and left front yoke one after another. Once the yoke is finished and front and back are joined, the body is worked in the round, until the bottom has to be shaped back and forth to add more length and create a split hem on the back. The sleeves are worked in the round from stitches that are picked up along the armholes edges. Finally, a folded collar is knitted to add more coziness to this sweater.
Techniques:
Alternating Cable Bind-Off, Backward Loop Cast-On, Cable Cast-On, Cables, Folded neckband, German Short Rows, Long-Tail Cast-On, Mattress Stitch, Pick up patch pockets
Retrosaria Brusca (100% fine Portuguese Wool: 50% Saloia, 50% Merino Branco and Merino Preto; 125 meters / 136 yards per 50 g)
1010 (1085, 1155, 1225, 1295) [1390, 1480, 1595, 1770, 1865] mètres / 1105 (1185, 1265, 1340, 1415) [1520, 1620, 1745, 1935, 2040] yards
Sample shown is knit in colourway C586.
From Retrosaria:
'Brusca is a breed and flock specific yarn. It is made of 50% Saloia and 50% Merino Branco and Merino Preto wool. Saloia is the native sheep breed to the region of Lisbon and Setúbal. It is well documented since the 19th century as its wool was one of the finest available in the country. Saloia sheep have also become famous for their milk, from which the famous Azeitão cheese was traditionally made. Brusca is made from the wool of free range sheep. Mulesing is not practised in Portugal. Grown, scoured, milled and dyed in Portugal.'
A 10% discount is available for Brusca from Retrosaria.
Sizes:
1 (2, 3, 4, 5) [6, 7, 8, 9, 10]
Finished chest circumference: 106 (114, 122, 130, 137.5) [145.5, 153, 161, 169, 176.5] cm / 41.75 (45, 48, 51.25, 54.25) [57.25, 60.25, 63.5, 66.5, 69.5]” – recommended to be worn with 28 cm / 11” of positive ease at the chest.
Armhole Depth: 18.25 (19.5, 20.5, 21, 21.75) [23.25, 24.5, 25.75, 29.5, 30.25] cm / 7.25 (7.75, 8, 8,25, 8.5) [9.25, 9.75, 10.25, 11.5, 12]”
Side length from underarm: 33.5 cm / 13.25”
Upper sleeve circumference: 15.5 (16.5, 17, 17.5, 18) [19, 20.25, 21.5, 24.5, 25.5] cm / 6 (6.5, 6.75, 7, 7) [7.5, 8, 8.5, 9.75, 10]”
Sleeve length from underarm: 43 cm / 17”
Sleeve cuff circumference: 19 (19, 19, 19.75, 19.75) [21.5, 22.25, 24.5, 27.75, 29.25] cm / 7.5 (7.5, 7.5, 7.75, 7.75) [8.5, 8.75, 9.5, 11, 11.5]”
Measurements are estimates and subject to change as patterns are finalized.
Nature has an innate rhythm to it. If you look down to the cellular level of the plants that surround you, you can see this rhythm reflected in tiny geometric forms. After some playing around, this playful and leafy diamond shape started to reveal itself. It adds depth and texture to the garment, reflecting the richness and complexity of the forest. This design incorporates the motif into the special moments of a sweater: delicate ribbing, beautiful saddles, and an Aran-esque front panel.
This is a top down, saddle shoulder sweater. The saddles are worked separately. Stitches are then picked up for the back and front yokes and worked flat until the underarm. The body is then joined in the round and worked down to the rib. Sleeves are picked up from the armhole and worked down until the cuff to ensure the perfect try-on-as-you-go fit.
Techniques:
1x1 Cables, Backwards Loop Cast-On, German Short Rows, Long Tail Cast-On, Reading your knitting, Sewn Bind-Off
John Arbon Textiles Appledore DK (40% Devon Closewool / 40% Romney / 20% Exmoor Blueface; 250 metres / 274 yards per 100 g)
925 (990, 1080, 1205, 1395) [1420, 1550, 1720, 1840, 1940] metres / 1010 (1089, 1180, 1320, 1525) [1555, 1695, 1880, 2010, 2125] yards
Sample shown is knit in colourway Golden Knob.
From John Arbon Textiles:
'All the fibre in our new Appledore range is sourced from right here in the West Country, and, with a palette of unusual heathered shades, perfectly encapsulates our ethos. Like all our yarns, Appledore is steeped in our fibre heritage (all hail those vintage machines of ours). We have blended together Devon Closewool, a moorland breed with rustic and grippy fibre, with lustrous and characterful Romney and our old favourite, the gloriously bouncy Exmoor Blueface. The resulting blend is packed full of woolly bounce and a smattering of lustre, the perfect canvas for Appledore’s range of playful modern shades. When creating Appledore’s palette we were drawn to the depth of tone found in traditional tweed textiles. Many of the shades in Appledore’s orchard of delights have been blended using four or five different base shades, creating a sublime richness to the colours. The shades are all named after different varieties (or cultivars, if you want to get all fancy) of apples that we have here in the West Country. Some of them are rather puntastic as we love a good chuckle round here.'
John Arbon Textiles offers a 10% discount on Appledore DK.
Sizes:
1 (2, 3, 4, 5) [6, 7, 8, 9, 10]
Finished chest circumference: 89 (96, 100, 112, 120) [128, 139, 148, 152, 160] cm / 35 (37.75, 39.25, 44, 47.25) [50.5, 54.75, 58.25, 59.75, 63]”– recommended to be worn with 10 cm / 4” of positive ease at the chest.
Crossback width: 43 (48, 48, 52, 52) [52, 52, 56, 56, 56] cm / 17 (19, 19, 20.5, 20.5) [20.5, 20.5, 22, 22, 22]”
Yoke depth: 20.5 (21, 22, 22.5, 23) [24, 25.5, 26.5, 29.5, 30.5] cm / 8 (8.25, 8.5, 8.75, 9) [9.5, 10, 10.25, 11.5, 12]”
Side length from underarm: 37 (37, 41, 41, 45) [45, 45, 49, 49, 49] cm / 14.5 (14.5, 16, 16, 17.5) [17.5, 17.5, 19, 19, 19]”
Sleeve length from underarm: 45 (45, 45, 45, 45) [45, 45, 45, 45, 45] cm / 17.5 (17.5, 17.5, 17.5, 17.5) [17.5, 17.5, 17.5, 17.5, 17.5]”
Sleeve cuff circumference: 22 (22, 22, 22, 27) [27, 27, 27, 27, 27] cm / 8.5 (8.5, 8.5, 8.5, 10.5) [10.5, 10.5, 10.5, 10.5, 10.5]”
Total body length: 57.5 (58, 63, 63.5, 68) [69, 70.5, 75.5, 78.5, 79.5] cm / 22.5 (22.75, 24.5, 24.75, 26.5) [27, 27.75, 29.25, 30.5, 31]”
Measurements are estimates and subject to change as patterns are finalized.
Hueston Woods is a large nature preserve near where I grew up. I love walking through the trees, the sense of peace and calm is a balm to my soul. This cardigan is designed with both lace and cables to evoke the leaves and twigs strewn on wooded walking paths. It’s the perfect layer for returning to the cabin at the end of the day, sitting around the fire as the air cools and the sky darkens to reveal the stars.
The cardigan is designed to have a relaxed, oversized fit. It is worked from the bottom up, with the cable and lace pattern covering the body and sleeves and deep ribbing at the hem and cuffs. The sleeves are loosely tapered and joined to the body before using raglan deceases to shape up to the neckline. The generous shawl collar and button bands are knitted in ribbing from stitches picked up along the fronts and the neckline, with short row shaping for the collar.
Techniques:
Buttonholes, Cables, Cable Cast-On, German Short Rows, Lace, Picking Up Stitches, Reading Charts, Tubular Cast-On and Bind-Off
Biches & Buches Le Lambswool (100% lambswool; 170 metres / 185 yards per 50 g)
1431 (1655, 1766, 1828, 2081) [2388, 2515, 2820, 2909, 3210] metres / 1557 (1801, 1922, 1990, 2265) [2599, 2737, 3069, 3166, 3493] yards
Sample shown is knit in colourway Medium Green Grey.
From Biches & Bûches:
'When starting to think about a woolen company, Astrid was in search of the yarn she wanted to knit her designs with and offer in the little Biches & Bûches shop to be. She was looking for something that felt authentic with a slight rustic touch, that would remind her of her trip to Norway in 1995 when she re-discovered the pure wool from the Norwegian sheep, as well as her Scandinavian roots. A yarn that would make a sturdy sweater, to be worn throughout the years. And that rustic yarn would have to be blended with a soft feeling, that felt good knitting with, and one would want to wear daily. It was in Scotland, in a family owned fiber mill that she found the possibility to make the yarn she was looking for, which would become the signature wool of Biches & Bûches: Le Petit Lambswool, which became the heart of our yarn collection and designs. It has this rustic charm all the while being very soft to knit with and wear. We hope that you will love it as much as we do.'
Sizes:
1 (2, 3, 4, 5) [6, 7, 8, 9, 10]
Finished chest circumference: 78 (86, 94, 102, 110) [118, 126, 134, 142, 150] cm / 30.75 (33.75, 37, 40.25, 43.25) [46.5, 49.5, 52.75, 56, 59]” – recommended to be worn with 10-20 cm / 4-8” of positive ease at the chest.
Armhole depth: 20.5 (22, 22.5, 22.5, 23) [24.5, 25, 26.5, 29.5, 30.5] cm / 8.25 (8.75, 9, 9, 9.25) [9.75, 10, 10.5, 12, 12.25]”
Side length from underarm: 54 (54, 54, 54, 54) [55, 55, 55, 55, 55] cm / 21.5 (21.5, 21.5, 21.5, 21.5) [22, 22, 22, 22, 22]”
Upper sleeve circumference: 34 (42, 42, 42, 50) [50, 50, 58, 58, 66.5] cm / 13.5 (16.75, 16.75, 16.75, 20) [20, 20, 23.25, 23.25, 26.5]”
Sleeve length from underarm: 31 (31, 31, 31, 31) [32.5, 32.5, 32.5, 32.5, 32.5] cm / 12.5 (12.5, 12.5, 12.5, 12.5) [13, 13, 13, 13, 13]”
Sleeve cuff circumference: 14.5 (14.5, 14.5, 14.5, 14.5) [18, 18, 18, 21, 21] cm / 5.75 (5.75, 5.75, 5.75, 5.75) [7.25, 7.25, 7.25, 8.5, 8.5]”
Total body length: 74 (75.5, 76, 76, 77) [79.5, 80, 81.5, 85, 85.5] cm / 29.75 (30.25, 30.25, 30.5, 30.75) [31.75, 32.25, 32.75, 33.75, 34.25]”
Measurements are estimates and subject to change as patterns are finalized.
Featuring luscious cables, this blanket is inspired by the leaves and moss you can observe in the Autumn woods. It will keep you cosy and warm when you come back from your walk to knit by the fire. With its repeating aspect it soon becomes a very meditative knit while still interesting enough to keep you invested.
The blanket is knitted as a rectangle. It starts with a ribbing border, then the cable pattern is introduced and repeated throughout the blanket which ends with another ribbing border. An I-cord is worked on each side for a neat edge. Instructions are also given for a scarf version.
Techniques:
Knit-On Cast-on, Cables
Fonty Fado (100% Merino d’Arles and Portuguese Merino; 125 metres / 137 yards per 50 g)
2000 (740) metres / 2188 (809) yards
Sample shown is knit in colourway 662.
From Fonty:
'FADO is a 100% natural ecological yarn, without treatment, without dyeing, composed entirely of wool from 2 emblematic breeds of merino sheep. Arles Merino (Mérinos d'Arles), naturally off-white, raised in the Crau plain in Provence; Black Merino from Portugal, naturally dark brown, bred in the province of Alentejo in southern Portugal, but also implanted by Fonty and the association Lainamac within farms in Creuse. This project aims to develop the wool sector of the Massif Central Mountains in the middle of France, while minimizing the ecological impacts linked to transport.
'The result is breathtaking: by varying the blends of the two fleeces, Fonty obtains colors ranging from off-white (660) to dark brown (664) via 3 light browns (661), medium (662), and black (663).
'FADO is a carded yarn twisted in 3 strands, bulky and supple, and pleasant to the touch. It should be washed by hand, preferably with an organic soap, and dry flat. Like all untreated natural yarns, it has the particularity of softening with successive washes.'
Sizes:
Blanket (Scarf)
Total length: 140 (186.5) cm / 55 (73.5)”
Total width: 98.5 (26) cm / 38.75 (10.25)”
Measurements are estimates and subject to change as patterns are finalized.
These socks are inspired by the redwood trees in the forests of Northern California. The cable pattern appears more complex than it is to execute and is reminiscent of the stoic beauty of the timeless trees. The cable design gives a hardy, woodsy feel to the socks, with a classic heel flap and gusset construction that mimics the look of hiking socks.
These socks are knit cuff down, with a 2x2 rib cuff, slip stitch heel flap, and a wedge toe. The cable design is a combination of garter stitch and 2x2 cabling which appears on the outside edge of either foot. The contrast color for the heel flap and toe is perfect for sock sets or scrap yarn.
Techniques:
Long-Tail Cast-On, Picking up stitches, Reading your knitting, Cables, Grafting
Studio Solas Organic Sock (German Merino; 235 metres / 257 yards per 100 g)
146 (165, 183, 201, 235) metres / 160 (180, 200, 220, 257) yards
Sample shown is knit in colourway Deep Red.
From Studio Solas:
'A tightly twisted 3-ply yarn, made from certified organic wool of sheep who are living a happy life! The yarn is a mixture of medium and slightly coarser wool, and it also contains longer and shorter hairs, which make this yarn suitable to knit yourself a cozy pair of house socks.'
A 20% discount is available from Studio Solas on up to two skeins of their Organic Sock yarn.
Sizes:
1 (2, 3, 4, 5)
Finished foot circumference: 20 (21.25, 22.5 23.75, 25) cm / 8, (8.5, 9, 9.5, 10)”
– recommended to be worn with 2.5 cm / 1” of negative ease.
Measurements are estimates and subject to change as patterns are finalized.
When creating this design I reflected on what I like to knit on a cold day when I am by the fire in my house looking out at the weather outside. I found I crave knits with rhythm and a little interest. I am drawn to knit projects in these moments that leave me room to chat or play a board game but that I can look at every few rows and admire the beauty I am creating. In this shawl I have included textures that fit this need for rhythm, interest, and beauty (and leave space for board games and cups of tea).
This shawl begins with a simple garter tab that forms the centre top of the shawl. A garter edge frames the design, with the shaping occurring by increasing with make ones. The design moves through three distinct stitch patterns, a quilted lattice, small cables and a leaf motif. A row of eyelets separate each section. The shawl finishes with a picot bind off.
Techniques:
Long-Tail Cast-On, Cable Cast-On, Reading your knitting, Lace and Cables
De Rerum Natura Ulysse (100% wool; 185 metres / 202 yards per 50 g)
held together with
De Rerum Natura Bérénice (55% super kid mohair, 25% silk, 20% wool; 210 metres / 230 yards per 25 g)
620 metres / 678 yards
From De Rerum Natura:
'Ulysse is a woolen spun yarn made from a blend of white French Mérinos d'Arles (Provence) and black Portuguese merino (Alentejo valley) raised with a concern for the well-being of the animals and the valorisation of their wool. All the manufacturing stages of this yarn are carried out in a short circuit (France and Portugal for sourcing, Belgium or Italy for washing, France for spinning and dyeing) with a constant desire for traceability and to reduce its impact on the environment. It is offered in natural colours resulting from the blend of brown and white fleeces ("sel" (salt), "poivre blanc" (white pepper), "poivre et sel" (pepper and salt) and "poivre" (pepper)), and in a range of subtly heathered and dyed in fleece colours.'
'Bérénice is a unique blend of extra-fine Angora goat fibres from South African farms committed to animal welfare and the soft, plump wool of our organic Merinos d'Arles, spun into loops around a strong, shiny silk yarn, then combed to give the desired tousled, voluminous look. The yarn is then dyed using ecological dyes that comply with GOTS specifications to reduce its environmental impact. We manufacture this very special yarn in Italy, near Biella.'
A 15% discount for these yarns is available from De Rerum Natura.
One Size
Total wingspan: 195 cm / 76.75”
Total depth: 43 cm / 17”
Measurements are estimates and subject to change as patterns are finalized.
Tentsmuir is a beautiful nature reserve in Fife, Scotland. A tangling web of woodland paths, lined by towering forest trees; rich in wildlife. Drawing on this natural inspiration I wanted to emulate this in knitting through the use of texture: the cables being to towering pine trees either side of the paths, the garter stitch columns. I envision walking through the crisp autumn air wrapped in my Tentsmuir Cardigan, wandering deep into the welcoming natural vista.
Tentsmuir is a dropped shoulder cardigan, worked bottom-up. The body is knit first, then stitches are divided for front left, front right and back panel. The back panel is worked in a trapezium shape. The front left and front right panels are then worked and seamed to the back panel, along the shoulder seam. Finally, the sleeves are worked in the round with a cable running along the underarm and into the cuff.
Techniques:
Buttonholes in double knitting button placket, Cables (2/2 LC and 2/2 RC), Double knitting , German Short Rows, Italian bind off, Italian cast on, Pick up stitches, Reading your knitting, Seaming using mattress stitch
Uist Wool Siaban DK (100% Scottish wool: cheviot & hebridean; 235 metres / 257 yards per 100 g)
985 (1045, 1105, 1185, 1275 ) [1345, 1415, 1500, 1610, 1700] metres / 1080 (1140, 1210,1295, 1395) [ 1470, 1550, 1640, 1765, 1860] yards
Sample shown is knit in colourway Siaban.
Note that Uist Wool expects to have an update of Siaban DK in the next month or so. Uist's Alba DK is also a fine substitute for Siaban DK.
From Uist Wool:
'A salty blend of Uist wools, Siaban DK is a pale and mysterious yarn that matches the blurred edges between sand and land as dunes drift and settle beyond the beaches in a wild Winter gale. This misty grey yarn may be pale in colour, but it still ripples and pulses with interest, tone and shade as the contrasting colours of the blended fibres nestle together in the twist to form true depth of shade in this light yarn.'
Uist Wool is offering a 20% discount for sizes 1-6 and a 30% discount for sizes 7-10 for any of the yarns in their DK Collection.
Sizes:
1 (2, 3, 4, 5) [6, 7, 8, 9, 10]
Finished chest circumference: 87.25 (94.5, 102, 109.5, 120.5) [128, 135.25, 142.75, 150.25, 161.25] cm / 34.25 (37.25, 40.25, 43, 47.5) [50.5, 53.25, 56.25, 59.25, 63.5]” – recommended to be worn with approximately 9 cm / 3.5” of positive ease at the chest.
Shoulder width : 15.5 (15.5, 17.25, 17.25, 17.25) [17.25, 17.25, 19.25, 19.25, 21] cm / 6 (6, 6.75, 6.75, 6.75) [6.72, 6.75, 7.5,7.5, 8.25]”
Crossback width: 43 (43, 46.75, 46.75, 46.75) [46.75, 50.25, 50.25, 54, 54] cm / 17 (17, 18.5, 18.5, 18.5) [ 18.5, 19.75, 19.75, 21.25, 21.25]”
Armhole depth: 18 (19, 19.5, 20, 20.5) [21.5, 22.75, 24, 27, 28] cm / 7 (7.5, 7.75, 7.75, 8) [ 8.5, 9, 9.5, 10.75, 11]”
Upper sleeve circumference: 42.5 (45.5, 47.5, 51.5, 53.5) [55.5, 57.5, 60.5, 64.5, 67.5] cm / 16.75 (18, 18.75, 20.25, 21) [21.75, 22.75, 23.75, 25.5, 26.5]”
Total body length from shoulder to hem: 51 (50.5, 50.5, 51.5, 52) [52, 52, 52.5, 52.5, 52.5] cm / 20 (20, 20, 20.25, 20.5) [20.5, 20.5, 20.75, 20.75, 20.75]”
Measurements are estimates and subject to change as patterns are finalized.
For this design I was inspired by the idea of a crisp walk through an autumnal forest and returning to the cabin for a cup of hot cocoa. I wanted to design a shawl that would be perfect for both experiences. The rustic feel of natural wool combined with the texture of the garter stitch and mosaic knitting gave me that cosy feeling I was looking for. The mosaic motif reminds me of undergrowth in a forest, which was perfect combined with the green shades of the sample.
Tesserae is a large triangle shawl. It is started with a garter tab at the top of the centre spine and knit top-down flat. Shaping is achieved with increases along the sides and centre spine. The shawl is worked with two colours and combines garter stitch and mosaic knitting.
Techniques:
Judy’s Magic Cast-On, Mosaic Knitting, Standard Bind-Off
Tukuwool Fingering (100% Finnish wool; 370 metres / 405 yards per 100 g)
MC: 335 metres / 365 yards
CC: 830 metres / 910 yards
Sample shown is knit in colourways H36 Rohto (MC, light green) and H35 Havu (CC, dark green).
From Tukuwool:
'Tukuwool Fingering is a unique fingering weight wool yarn from Finland. The woolen spun two-ply yarn is twisted tightly but gently to create a light and lively yarn for an enjoyable knitting experience. The versatile yarn is designed for various types of knits such as mittens, cardigans, shawls and more.
'We have slightly renewed the yarn base. The changes enable the smoother quality and a softer hand feel. We managed to keep the density change so small that the previous knitting patterns designed for Tukuwool Fingering are also suitable for the renewed yarn.
'Tukuwool yarns are spun and dyed in Finland using 100% Finnish wool. The high quality wool together with the carefully selected colors give our yarn soul and meaning. Both natural and dyed colors are included in the color chart.'
A 20% discount is available for this yarn from Tukuwool.
One Size
Wingspan: 177.5 cm / 70”
Depth at spine: 92.5 cm / 36.5”
Measurements are estimates and subject to change as patterns are finalized.
With long lines of branches leading to a rich canopy of leaves, my vest design combines texture and cables to evoke the feel of the majestic trees surrounding you whilst walking through the forest. The lower front and back feature long vertical lines of tree branches knitted in a textured garter stitch rib. The branches are interspersed with leaves falling from the tree tops. The upper sections of the front and back are filled with an abundance of leaves which are “drawn” onto the knitting using 2- and 3-stitch cables. The shapes formed in between the multiple leaves in the upper canopy section mirror the multiple leaf shapes and show hints of the lower branches extending into the canopy. The sides of the vest feature the tree branch rib which also extends into the armhole shaping.
The vest is knitted flat from the bottom up in two pieces (front and back). The sides are seamed with the option to leave the lower edges open. The armholes are shaped and edged with garter stitch rib during the knitting of the front and back. The neckband is also knitted in garter stitch rib, with stitches picked up after joining the right shoulder seam.
Techniques:
Cables (worked with or without a cable needle), Mattress Stitch for seaming, Picking up stitches for the neckband
Blacker Yarns Tamar DK (100% Pure New Wool: Lustre Blend; 220 metres / 238 yards per 100 g)
635 (705, 765, 820, 880) [955, 1030, 1090, 1170, 1255] metres / 695 (775, 835, 900, 960) [1045, 1130, 1195, 1280, 1370] yards
Sample shown is knit in colourway Tiddy Brook.
From Blacker Yarns:
'Our beautiful semi-worsted lustre yarn is spun from the fleeces of fine British rare breeds, including Teeswater, Wensleydale and Leicester Longwool. The natural grey of the Leicester Longwool makes asubtle base shade in silvery mid grey. To give some body and bulk, we base the lustre fibres on a grounding of 30% Cornish Mule, which also has lustre as well as additional softness. Tamar has the sheen, shimmer and drape which links it to its namesake river. We have then chosen a series of subtle complementary colours to dye over the base – to create a wonderful shade palette, named for other Cornish rivers.'
Natural Fibre Co. is offering a 20% discount for sizes 1-6 and a 25% discount for sizes 7-10 for Blacker Yarns Tamar DK.
Sizes:
1 (2, 3, 4, 5) [6, 7, 8, 9, 10]
Finished chest circumference: 90 (98, 106, 114, 122) [130, 138, 146, 154, 162] cm / 35.5 (38.5, 41.75, 45, 48) [51, 54.25, 57.5, 60.75, 63.75]” – recommended to be worn with 10-12 cm / 4-4.75” of positive ease at the chest.
Shoulder width: 10.5 (10.75, 11, 11.25, 11.5) [11.75, 12, 12.25, 13, 13.75] cm / 4 (4.25, 4.25, 4.5, 4.5) [4.75, 4.75, 4.75, 5, 5.5]”
Crossback width: 40 (41, 42, 43, 44) [45, 46, 47, 49, 51] cm / 15.75 (16.25, 16.5, 17, 17.5) [17.75, 18, 18.5, 19.25, 20]”
Armhole depth: 18 (19, 19.5, 20, 20.5) [21.5, 22.75, 24, 27, 28] cm / 7 (7.5, 7.75, 8, 8) [8.5, 9, 9.5, 10.75, 11]”
Total body length to shoulder: 52 (53, 53, 53, 53) [54, 55, 55, 56, 57] cm / 20.5 (21, 21, 21, 21) [21.25, 21.75, 21.75, 22, 22.5]”
Measurements are estimates and subject to change as patterns are finalized.
