Cara Cara Pullover by Amanda Bell

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.

Leaf Net Stole by Kristy Howell

Ginkgo Counterpane Shawl by Paula Levy

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).

Westport Shawl by Sarah Wilson

Quinn Sweater by Amy Gunderson

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.

photo – Knitting Fever Inc.

Self-striping yarn, that is!

For our “Second Winter Season” we’ve been bringing in an assortment of colorful yarns from Noro – first the classic favorite Kureyon, a rustic worsted weight wool, and now Taiyo and Taiyo Sock, both blends of cotton, nylon, silk, and wool. These yarns are spun in the Aichi province of Japan from an assortment of hand selected and individually dyed fibres to create their distinctive striping patterns.

The founder of the company, Eisaku Noro, oversees the creation of each colorway and insists on using the highest quality fibres and ecologically friendly processing. His philosophy is to do as much of the yarn production as possible by hand, rather than by machine, to preserve the natural character of the fibres.

(Want to learn more about how Noro yarns are made? View their 27-page e-booklet full of interesting information and photos here.)

It can be hard to find just the right project that makes the most of the long color changes in a self-striping yarn, so we thought we’d give you some ideas to try out these yarns with!

photo - Sixth & Spring

First off, we have two new books full of patterns designed specifically for these unique yarns!

Can’t decide which colorway you want to try first? Knit Noro: Accessories: 30 Colorful Little Knits is full of small projects to let you sample as many as you like!

Try a toasty Brioche Scarf, boldly patterned Entrelac Mittens, eye-catching Eyelet Bobble Scarf, practical Felted Patchwork Tote, or the versatile Reversible Scarves in lofty Kureyon. Knit an iPad Cover in Taiyo to keep your favorite high-tech knitting accessory cozy!

(Try Kureyon and Taiyo in any of the patterns written for Silk Garden as well.)

photo - Sixth & Spring

For larger projects as well as accessories, turn to Knit Noro: 30 Designs in Living Color.

The striking Chevron Scarf and fetching Fair Isle Cap show off multiple shades of Kureyon, while the Entrelac Scarf and Striped Shawl make the most of a single colorway. Ready for a colorful challenge? Knit up a cozy Cowl Neck Tunic or snuggly Hooded Vest.

Want even more? How about a dramatic Modular Afghan or Patchwork Afghan in Taiyo? For garments, there’s the pretty Parasol Lace Vest and bold Sideways Stripes Vest, or try the Reversible Cabled Scarf for a quicker knit.

Choose Taiyo Sock, a new member of the Noro family, for the Ridged Ripples Scarf - the challenging design uses two strands of the same colorway started at different points in the color repeat to create a stunning faux-cable pattern. Take a few minutes to check out the Ravelry project photos for this one!

photo - fibre space

On Ravelry, you’ll find the popular Noro Striped Scarf, Turn a Square hat, and Lizard Ridge blanket among the many projects knit in Kureyon  - these are great patterns for Taiyo too!

Try Taiyo Sock for the Lacy Karius pattern (we have one knit up at the shop for you to see), or combine it with a solid color for the Spectra scarf. The Uzu sock pattern from Knitty is a great way to get some Noro from head to toe!

Still need a bit more encouragement to try these unusual yarns?

Try our Entrelac Scarf or Wrap class to learn a fun knitting technique that looks great in a self-striping yarn (or just stop by for the pattern).  Crocheters can try one of the many variations of the Queen Anne’s Lace scarf. (Keep an eye out for upcoming classes – we have our own version of this pattern available at the shop as well!)

Is it here? I don’t know. I keep hoping that we will get a freak snow storm. I feel robbed this winter. But alas, it is warm outside. And so I gave in to the temptation of our new spring yarns and cast on for a spring top. If you are planning to wear knitted items in spring and summer, you basically need to get them started asap. Otherwise, they won’t be done in time to wear! If you aren’t a quick knitter, just stick to winter sweaters and you will have a nice new garment when the weather gets cold again in September and October.

I may have been pulled in by the Rowan Purelife Revive booklet and its fabulous men’s and women’s garments. Ultimately, I cast on for this top:

Pumpkin - from Rowan Purelife Revive Collection

Given that it is mostly stockinette stitch with absolutely no waist shaping, I thought I could knock it out pretty quickly. I modified the striping pattern slightly so that I could carry the colors up the side and avoid weaving in one million tails. If you want to do the same, work 4 rows of the first color, one row of the edging color, four rows of the second color and one row of the edging color again. Adding the extra row to the second color will mean that your pattern repeat will work out nicely and you will always be able to grab the color you need from below. To carry the yarns up the side, I always knit the first stitch with the color I need and the color that is being dragged along. Since I will seam in that first stitch anyway, it won’t be seen at all in the finished garment. I cast on Saturday and here is my progress:

My pumpkin tunic

I love love love this yarn. It is made from recycled clothing – cotton, viscose and silk. The silk makes little slubs of color that pop from the yarn. It helps the different colorways to really work nicely together. It is definitely like knitting with linen though, and I wouldn’t recommend double stranding it or doing serious cable work with it. It has no give. But for a wool addict, this stuff is pretty awesome. I think I might be converted to cotton again.

Be sure to check the schematics for this garment. If I made this as they instructed, it would be a dress on me. Luckily there is no waist shaping to modify – I just cut inches from my work and it will be fine. Now watch the weather turn to snow flurries on the day I get this blocked and ready to wear…

Oxidize by Ysolda Teague

In case you haven’t been following our tweets, we received a whimsical little surprise!  Ysolda Teague’s new book, Whimsical Little Knits 3 arrived in the shop full of adorableness – so typical of Ysolda.  Here are some of our favorites:

The Oxidize hat with its cross-crossed cable detail uses a special twisted stitch technique to create an asymmetrical cable pattern that really pops.  It can be done in a single color, or two colors for more variety.  I would recommend the Sweet Georgia Superwash Merino Worsted.  This lovely hand-dye has a great range of colors for a stunning combination.

I also love the Narwhal mittens. They are covered in sea creatures! They are swimming all over your hand.  We recommend the St. Denis Nordique, a 100% wool in a sport weight, which comes in 21 delightful colors to choose from.

Hendreary by Ysolda Teague

The Hendreary hat, (which would be the cutest part of the book, if not for the next….) would be perfect in our newest staple yarn, Zara 8.  The springy-ness of the Zara makes it wonderful for working in stranded colorwork without the puckering that sometimes happens with less stretchy fibres.

I think the cutest pattern is the little robot, Trinket.  He’s worked in the round, with limbs knitted on.  Ella Rae Chunky would be a good choice for a machine-washable toy for the next delightful bundle to come into your life.  Look at this thing!! How could you not want to knit that for your favorite child (or dad/husband/boyfriend)?

Trinket by Ysolda Teague

We are excited to announce the arrival of local designer (and fibre space instructor!) Tanis Gray‘s new book Capitol Knits: Twelve Modern Designs Inspired by America’s Capital, Washington DC. 

(Don’t miss the book signing and trunk show we’ll be hosting with Tanis on Saturday January 28 at 2 PM! Give us a call to reserve a copy of the book.)

A local’s love letter to the great city of Washington DC, Capitol Knits features timeless designs in gorgeous yarns, historical tidbits, beautiful photography by Tanis herself, and facts about local flora and fauna. This book is as much fun to look through as it will be to knit from!

The patterns in the book are divided into two sections: Sweaters and Accessories. Each section opens with stunning photographs of the places in the city that inspired each design and an explanation of how Tanis thoughtfully transformed that inspiration into a design and then into a knitted object.

American Indian Cardigan photo - TanisKnits

The American Indian Cardigan uses seed stitch to mimic the rough-hewn texture of the Kasota limestone on the exterior of the American Indian Museum as well as reference the intricate beadwork displayed inside. Tanis chose a warm orange color of Blue Sky Alpacas Worsted Hand Dyes that reminds her of her time spent studying in New Mexico.

The Jefferson Pullover uses bold twisted cables to evoke the strong columns of the Jefferson Memorial while the teal blue color calls to mind the surrounding waters of the Tidal Basin. You’ll want a snuggly superbulky yarn for this – try Mirasol Ushya to keep it light and lofty.

The Lincoln Cardigan has simple cables reflecting the clean lines of the Lincoln Memorial. The thistle pattern on the back and the yarn color reminiscent of milk thistle flowers were inspired by a quote from Abraham Lincoln that is included in the book. A heavy worsted or aran weight yarn will be best for this design – Cascade Eco Wool, for example.

Union Station Infinity Cowl photo - TanisKnits

Next up are the accessories, starting with the Union Station Infinity Cowl. The intricate Fair Isle patterning hearkens to the hustle and bustle of people going to and fro in the busy station. Tanis chose five colors of light and lofty Brooklyn Tweed SHELTER to reflect the marble, gold leaf, granite, and mahogany used to build Union Station.

The E Pluribus Unum Cowl design with its multiple picot edgings is inspired by the White House, where the President and his staff work to solve the many issues of the country and make us “out of many, one.” Knit this up in a smooth worsted weight to show off the intricate pattern – some Neighborhood Fiber Co. Studio Worsted in the 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue colorway, perhaps?

The churning waters of the Court of Neptune Fountain at the Library of Congress were the impetus for the twisting cable and lace design of the Library of Congress Hat. An aran weight yarn like Swans Island Certified Organic Chunky will be worthy for the king of the sea!

Summerhouse Hat & Wristers photo - TanisKnits

Bright green moss growing on the patterned brick and latticed ironwork of the Summerhouse, located on the West Lawn of the Capitol, inspired the Summerhouse Hat and Wristers – which in turn started Tanis on designing the rest of the patterns for Capitol Knits! Knit these in a luxurious sport weight yarn like The Fibre Company Road to China Light.

A shimmering chandelier hung in a striking hallway in the Renwick Gallery was the inspiration for the Renwick Wristers, knit in two colors of subtly sparkly Sublime Yarns Lustrous Extra Fine Merino DK to reflect the saffron walls of the hallway and the dark woodwork.

The bold stripes of the Constitution Hall Scarf evoke the American flag hanging outside the building where Tanis researched her family history as a Daughter of the American Revolution. A DK weight silk-blend yarn will work up with a lovely drape – try the hand-dyed colors of Neighborhood Fiber Co. Maisonette DK.

National Gallery Shawl photo - TanisKnits

The Capitol Shawl calls for a silky, drapy DK weight as well. The green lawns and marble steps of the Capitol building influenced the geometric shaping and graphic striped design. Try The Fibre Company Acadia for a textured look.

Last but definitely not least, the idea for the National Gallery Shawl was sparked by the LED-lit tunnel at the National Gallery of Art. Knit a one or two-color version in luxurious Skein Worsted MCN or The Fibre Company Terra.

Congratulations to Tanis on her newest book! We can’t wait to see what’s in store next from her creative mind and needles!

Today was super exciting because three new colors arrived from Spud and Chloe in the Sweater yarn: Chocolate Milk, Manatee and Lilac.

Chocolate Milk

Manatee

Lilac

What great additions to the vibrant color range of this yarn!

We also got in some new patterns…and I think this one is going to be a big hit:

Leaf Blanket in Spud and Chloe Outer

This amazing little baby bunting is worked in 4 hanks of Spud and Chloe Outer. It is a quick and easy project for baby gifts and amazingly adorable – another gem from Susan B Anderson. You would need US #15 32″ circular needles and US #11 double points and one button.

We also picked up this new men’s sweater pattern – worked in Spud and Chloe Sweater (a chance to use a couple of those new colors!) This is one of those sweaters that our men will actually wear…. simple with a touch of color.

Jersey Pullover in Spud and Chloe Sweater

Should you decide that a man in your life needs this sweater, you will need 7-10 hanks of the main color and one skein of each of the contrast color. It uses US #8 needles.

 As I may have mentioned a time or three, I love knitting books. When we go to the trade show in the summer we get to hear about all the new books that will be coming out in the fall – so I’ve been eagerly awaiting the arrival of this book for months! It has two of my favorite things right in the title after all – “Irish” and “Knits.”

I’ve also been looking forward to a whole book of Carol Feller’s designs after seeing her patterns like Trousseau, Iced, Adrift, and more. Trained as an artist and a structural engineer, she sums up her design aesthetic by saying:

“I enjoy designing knitwear that is well-shaped, flattering to wear and enjoyable to knit. I strive to design clothing with a difference: not overly complex, but still giving a very unique end product. I like to work with different construction methods, so long as they enhance the knitting experience and make for a more intuitively put-together knitted item.”

In Contemporary Irish Knits, Feller combines her modern design sensibility with the colors and textures of the Irish landscape and the knitting traditions of the Aran Islands to create fresh new patterns.

Ireland has long been known for its wool industry (Donegal tweed, anyone?), and Feller highlights the three Irish mills that still produce hand knitting yarn by using their yarns in her designs and discussing how the yarn is produced.

Listowel - photo Joseph Feller

First on the list is Kerry Woollen Mills, in operation for over 300 years. The same family has run the mills for over 100 years and currently produce certified organic yarn and traditional Aran yarn for hand knitters. The cabled jacket pattern pictured on the book cover, Killorglin, is designed in their Aran Wool yarn. (Can’t pop over to Killarney to pick some up? Feller kindly provides a yarn substitution guide in the back of the book  - or try Imperial Yarn Columbia 2-ply for an American-made version.)

The Tralee skirt with its pretty kick pleats is designed in Kerry Woollen Mills Organic 2-ply – try Stonehedge Fiber Mill Shepherd’s Wool DK, another American-made yarn, for yours.

The adorable Listowel shrug is a must-knit for your favorite little girl – the heart-shaped cable on the back makes it so special! (I’m knitting this for my niece’s birthday right now!) Make an extra-snuggly version in Blue Sky Alpacas Worsted Hand Dyes.

For boys, the hooded Caherciveen vest will keep them warm through all their adventures! Knit one up in Cascade Eco Wool – 2 skeins is all you need.

Ballyragget - photo Joseph Feller

Next to be featured is Cushendale Woollen Mills, another historic family-run mill in the little village of Graig-Na-Managh, County Kilkenny. They produce dyed-in-the-wool yarns for hand knitting, blending together colors to create subtle shades in their Cushendale Woollen Mills DK (actually a worsted weight) and 4-Ply (a fingering weight.)

The handsome Knockmore sweater is knit in the round from the bottom up and the saddle-shoulder shaping is created in one piece using decreases – interesting! Try Stonehedge Fiber Mill Shepherd’s Wool to show off the textured stitches, and knit up a Ballyragget hat for yourself at the same time.

The cable & lace pattern of Dangan can be made in small or large sizes to serve as a pretty shawl or sweet baby blanket – knit this in the new Brooklyn Tweed LOFT (the hard part will be picking which color you want to make it in!)

You’ll get to play with color again in the Belville sweater with its tweed stitch yoke – use the rich dyed-in-the-wool shades of Brooklyn Tweed SHELTER to create the perfect combination.

Ballinagree is a boys’ sweater with bold cables – knit this in a heathered color of Ella Rae Classic Superwash for easy care.

Kilmanagh felted bag uses two colors of yarn to evoke the tradition of woven tweed fabrics - Stonehedge Fiber Mill Shepherd’s Wool will felt up nicely for this.

Bundoran & Killybegs - photo Joseph Feller

The third mill featured by Feller is Donegal Yarns (formerly Kilcarra Woollen Mills), famous for the production of Donegal tweed yarns with their signature flecks, or “nepps,” of color. The Tahki Donegal Tweed that we carry at the shop is produced right here! Use it for any of the following patterns, or try Tahki Tara Tweed for a softer fabric.

The Killybegs cardigan and Bundoran beret use honeycomb cables to create texture and flatter your figure – make the beret as a gift and work on the cardigan for yourself!

The long lines of the Ardara cardigan will look great over skinny jeans or leggings, or perhaps a tweedy skirt & tights with boots! Wear it with a Glengesh wrap in a toasty color and keep warm with its textured cable & lace combination.

Straboy - photo Joseph Feller

I want to make the Straboy hoodie for myself! This pattern is a knockout with its traditional style cabling that shows off the tweedy yarn.

Rossbeg girl’s cardigan is another one I think I’ll have to make for my niece – every little Irish lass should have a cabled cardi!

The last section of the book introduces us to some modern Irish hand dyers – Dublin Dye Company, a group of dyers from Blackrock, and Hedgehog Fibres, a one woman operation from Cork.

Make the  lacy Dalkey Cowl & Fingerless Mitts in your favorite hand dyer’s fingering weight yarn – how about SpaceCadet Creations Celeste? One skein will do both the cowl and the mitts.

Rathcooney Hat & Mitts - photo Joseph Feller

The Rathcooney Hat & Fingerless Mitts have a gorgeous textured stitch pattern. The new Maisonette DK from Neighborhood Fiber Co. or a light worsted like Miss Babs Yowza would be perfect for these!

Which pattern is your favorite? I can’t wait to get started on some of these!

Dalkey Cowl & Mitts - photo Joseph Feller

From time to time, I want to keep you in the loop on the goings on behind the scenes in space. Now entering our third spring and summer season, we have learned a few things about the industry and what you all want. Instead of dropping lots of our favorite heavier winter yarns and replacing them with lots of spring and summer selections, we are doing a second fall/winter season. Some of the yarns that we brought to you in July and August will be going away to make room for our newest winter lines. We hope that this will keep you excited about knitting in January and onward. For those of you that really do have to knit with light fabrics and cotton blends for spring, no worries. We have ordered a select few and particularly interesting yarns to get you through the spring season.

The first of our winter yarns have arrived just in time for the holidays, and we’re celebrating the season with gifts from across the pond, fabulous Rowan yarns and Kim Hargreaves patterns!  We’re thrilled that our first shipment arrived just in time for last minute gift knitting….  And for you Rowan lovers out there, a true holiday treat.

Ella from Touching Elegance

Look no further than fibre space™ for an amazing inventory of Kim Hargreaves books. We carry: Heartfelt, Nectar, Winter Blooms, Misty, Touching Elegance, Cherish and Shadows. These stunning books feature Hargreaves timeless designs of understated, simple, elegance.  We want to knit all of them but Ella from Touching Elegance is high in my queue. We won’t have Kid Silk Haze for a few weeks but this would be stunning in Neighborhood Fiber Co Loft. Kim’s latest book should be arriving in the next few weeks.

*A note about these books: While I LOVE the Kim Hargreaves collection, it is definitely written in a very distinct way that will be quite challenging for new sweater knitters. I would recommend these books or accessories and small projects only if you haven’t been knitting sweaters for long.

Rowan Kidsilk Creation pattern available free from Rowan

Our next arrival from Rowan is Kidsilk Creation (70% mohair / 30% silk). This is a limited edition yarn from them. They used their best selling colors of Rowan Kid Silk Haze. We have all except the cream color (which is on order but hasn’t arrived yet). One skein of this wispy mohair and silk yarn is all you need to create a voluminous, festive accessory.  The pattern is a free download from Rowan.  It’s written for both knitting and crochet. I am thinking quick holiday gifts for friends and co workers!

Alpaca Chunky (98% alpaca / 2% polyester) is light and airy, created by a braided or chain construction.  It comes in four natural alpaca colors. This one is ideal for last minute Christmas gifts, particularly for those who want a luxuriously soft fabric (and won’t know how fast you made it!)  Cinder by Jared Flood (available at the shop) would look stunning knit up in this yarn. Or try the Bandana Cowlfrom Purl Soho. For more pattern inspiration, check back next week for a wonderful accessory book (Winter Warmers), which is scheduled to arrive!

This last arrival is giving me fits. I have to knit with it right away! Lima (84% alpaca / 8% Merino / 8% nylon) is buttery soft alpaca blended with Merino and nylon for structure and strength. The ball band calls for a US#9, but it would also be happy on an #8 or #10. For pattern inspiration, dive into Kim Hargreaves pattern books such as, Winter Warmers (coming soon) and Shadows. I spent entirely too much time in a Ravelry black hole today finding an excuse to knit with this yarn. Here is what I came up with: Eleanor by Kim Hargreaves in the Touching Elegance book. It was originally designed in another aran weight yarn, but I might have to whip it up in Lima. Something about a giant snuggly pullover that seems right for this yarn.

Eleanor by Kim Hargreaves

So, come on down to the shop and check out this wonderful new addition to our universe.

Knitters everywhere share a fondness for Jane. She took the same care and attention to detail with her characters that knitters bring to their work. As Austen spent time with her characters they blossomed, became intimate friends, and I imagine, surprised her along the way. Knitting is like that. It begins with some yarn and a pair of needles. Soon surprising you with little secrets as it takes shape.

In Jane Austen Knits the 35 Regency Era patterns are grouped into four sections, Country, Manor, Garden, and Town. Let’s take a look at a sampling of what Jane might knit!

Nothing chore-like about this apron

Out in the Country.

The whimsical Linen Work Apron incorporates a lace bodice and hem and would be beautiful in Hempathy. Short Stays takes the concept of a corset to create flattering outerwear along the lines of a cropped sweater or vest. Show off indie dyed yarns such NFC Studio Worsted, Sweet Georgia, or Miss Babs Yowza to stunning effect.

Do you have a Janeophile on your Christmas list? An accessory from the Regency Era might be just the thing. The Fitz Fingerless Mitts are perfect for racking leaves on a crisp fall day. Knit these up in Miss Babs Northumbria, Shepherds Wool, or Berocco Vintage DK and hands will stay toasty. The Pemberley Slippers are a divine luxury for a girlfriend or sister. Show off the slippers’ leaf lace pattern with Shelter LOFT, Lorna’s Laces Sock, or Dragon Sock.

I doubt Lydia Bennet’s ability to sit still long enough to knit the socks she inspired! With a pattern of lace horseshoes and moss stitch hearts Lydia Bennet Secret Socks will look divine in NFC Studio Sock or Dream in Color Smooshy. The Frivolous Sock incorporates delicate beads and a silk ribbon along the cuff and will knit up beautifully in Sweet Georgia, or Miss Babs Yummy Sock.

A good man (sweater) is hard to find

A good men’s sweater is hard to find. Kind of like the man himself. An Aran for Fredrick solves one half of the equation. Creative cabling gives a modern flourish while retaining a Celtic feel. Knit entirely in the round, the cables are the star of this garment. Choose from the stunning shades of Brooklyn Tweed SHELTER.

Conceived in the shape of a crescent, the main lace pattern of the Georgiana Shawlette is placed next to rows of stockinette, beautifully setting off the delicate design. Dragon Sock or Miss Babs Northumbria would be lovely.

Life in the Manor.

Most women’s clothes were made out of white or pastel muslin, a shawl or cropped jacket added a touch of color and a bit of warmth. While candlelight and fires certainly provided ambiance there was no central heating for our dear Jane.

The Woodhouse Spencercropped jacket is designed to skim the empire waistline. Short row shaping, an embossed ridge, and moss stitch

An easy, yet sophisticated knit

detail on the ruffle, collar, and cuffs provide both structure and a bit of whimsy. Berocco Vintage DK or Northumbria would be a perfect choice. In the Barton Cottage Shrug buttons and neckbands have been replaced with a ribbon that gathers up the neckline into a soft oval. Lovely lace edging along the hemline and sleeves complete the look. Choose one of the Lorna’s Laces Helen’s Lace pastels.

A knitters dream, the Lambton Top, with square neckline, ruffled sleeve cuffs, slightly fitted bodice and top-down construction combine to make this an easy, yet sophisticated knit. Lace weight yarn sets off the delicate details while the main body uses a DK yarn. The tone on tone blends of Viola’s Merino Lace and Silky DK will shimmer.

Delicate beads create this pattern.

The word ‘stockings’ holds so much more promise than nylons, tights, or socks. Imagine knitting one adorned with lace detailing and a picot casing threaded with a silk ribbon garter. Indulge your feet with a pair of Marianne Dashwood Stockings made in NFC Luxury Sock.

At first glance the Flower and Lace Cuffs seem to be intarsia. Look again and you’ll see delicate little beads. Imagine this in a dark, rich color of Berocco Ultra Alpaca with jewel-toned beads.

A turn in the Garden.

The Northanger Abbey Hood uses intricate lace design to create stunning visual appeal. Differing needle sizes and a geometric design combine to create the shaping. Use Vintage DK for a classic look or for a cocktail wrap, Sublime Lustrous.

This Scarlett Capelet falls just below the elbow and would look lovely in Imperial Stock Ranch Columbia. For a rustic look, suitable for the moors, use Tahki’s Tara or Donegal Tweed.

Knit this romantic jacket in tweed.

The faux shawl inset of the Elinor Tunic gives the illusion of layering while paying tribute to the eldest Dashwood sister. Fibre Company Savannah would work perfectly. Add a modern touch to the shawl inset with NFC’s Loft.

The Lydia Military Spencer incorporates the clean lines typical of such jackets while folding in a rouched sleeve cap and a simple collar that impart an air of softness. Knit this up in one of the rich, saturated colors of Brooklyn Tweed SHELTER.

Mr. Knightley’s Vest is imbued with all the elegance of Regency Era gentlemen’s clothing and a clever, yet simple construction gives the impression of exquisitely woven fabric. Knit up in Spud and Chloe Fine or Fibre Company Canopy it’s the perfect gift for your Mr. Darcy.

The Chawton Mittens combine both colorwork and cables to keep your hands toasty and stylish.

Fibre Company Canopy will set off the lovely detail work in this pattern.

Typically made with fur and silk, muffs are stylish and functional. The cables in the Leafy Muff provide texture and chunky yarn makes it a quick knit. The sheen of Berocco Sundae will dress it up or choose the pure warmth of Blue Sky Bulky.

Off to Town.

The right jacket for town is essential. Sporting military flair, The Meryton Coat incorporates traditional colorwork with crisp finishing details such as i-cording and mitered corners. Brooklyn Tweed LOFT is a perfect choice. The Evening Spencer, designed to set off an empire waist, would take on an updated look paired with a classic sheath. Try the luscious colors of the Shepherds Wool or Miss Babs Yowza.

Capes also made frequent appearances in town. The layers in this design mimic those on men’s overcoats popular in Regency England. Worked up in Schulana Kid Seta, the mohair adds grace and femininity to the Picturesque Cape.

Diamond and Cross Reticule

Enhance your wardrobe (or your Christmas gift stash) with one or more of these accessories. The sophisticated architectural lines of the long Kensington Mitts will pop in Dream In Color Smooshy or SweetGeorgia BFL Sock. Try the Sense and Fashion Handwarmers in one of the rich colors of Louisa Harding’s Grace. Bags during Jane’s time were petite and often intricate. The vibrant Diamond and Cross Reticule will knit up beautifully in the Brooklyn Tweed LOFT. Velvet Ribbons and snowflake lace grace Miss Bennet’s Beaded Bag. Choose from a rainbow of Spud and Chloe Fine. More jewelry, than garment, the lacey detail of Miss Morland’s Neckcloth pairs well with the luxury of Manos Lace or Miss Babs Yasmin.

You may not be able to make it to Derbyshire any time soon, but knitting up one of these patterns will certainly transport you to another time.

photo - Interweave Press

The leaves are changing, pumpkin spice lattes are back, and it’s finally crisp & cold enough to wear sweaters! It’s the perfect time of year to curl up with a pot of tea or hot apple cider and break out the serious knitting. Just in time, Knitscene has released their first-ever winter issue with 22 patterns to keep us busy all season long.

This issue starts out with “A Brief History of Angora,” with fun facts on the fuzzy bunnies that give us fluffy yarn – did you know that the German name for Angora rabbits, Menschenheilkaninchen, means “human healing rabbit”? Or that Marie Antoinette kept them as pets?

The Beatriz Dress has a dramatic deep yoke and a hint of leaf lace at the hem –  knit this up in a lofty worsted weight like Stonehedge Fiber Mill Shepherd’s Wool and be a hit at all your holiday parties.

More leafy lace appears on the Francisca Hat  – luxurious Mirasol Miski (100% baby llama) will keep you warm all winter long.

Vera Cardigan - photo Interweave Press

The Designer Collection in this issue features Alexis Winslow, who sums up her style aesthetic by saying “There’s something about knitting stripes that makes you want to do just one more!” You’ll agree when you see her four delightful designs!

The Vera Cardigan‘s clean lines and strong graphics combine with knitterly details like welted rib cuffs and contrasting button loops. Add a touch of tweed with Brooklyn Tweed’s SHELTER and you’ll be snuggly warm & stylish too.

Nora Dress - photo Interweave Press

The 1920′s inspired Zelda Cloche might have you rouging your knees, rolling your (hand-knit) stockings down, and all that jazz – or maybe just grabbing your needles! Pick two colors of Blue Sky Alpacas Alpaca Silk and a great button (check out our selection of handcrafted buttons from Annie Adams, Moving Mud, and Perl Grey, or visit our neighbors BW Antiques for a one-of-a-kind vintage find!)

Try your hand at a little colorwork with the Canyon Mitts - I’m already thinking of which three colors of St-Denis Nordique to use for these! Make a few pairs for holiday gifting (and one for yourself!)

The Nora Dress uses super-smart striping to flatter your figure – and works up fast in Cascade Eco Wool. It’s knit from the top down so it will be easy to get the perfect fit. Super cute!

The next story, “Born to Wander,” gives us a bit of Bohemian style, starting with the striking Jenica Pullover. Hold a drapy DK weight yarn together with a laceweight mohair & silk blend for this – Louisa Harding Grace Silk & Wool and Cascade Kid Seta Noir will make a stunning holiday sweater.

Jenica Pullover - photo Interweave Press

The Ileana Pullover (shown on the cover) will be light yet warm when you knit it in Berroco Voyage, a soft & lofty alpaca blend. Wrap up in an Oana Shawl on cold winter days – make a luxe version with hand-dyed Madelinetosh Tosh Chunky or go rustic & woolly with Imperial Yarns Columbia 2-ply.

Work up the Madalina Mittens in machine-washable Debbie Bliss Baby Cashmerino in colorful combinations from subtle to bold. The Tereza Pullover has a pretty lace yoke & knits up super fast in Sublime Chunky Merino Tweed – light, lofty, and warm.

The Ramona Cowl will take a bit longer but is definitely worth the effort – the combination of self-striping and solid yarns in a paisley colorwork pattern creates an amazing effect. Try Crystal Palace Mini Mochi or Sausalito with Berroco Ultra Alpaca Fine – or go for your favorite hand dyed fingering weight yarns!

Miercoles Tam - photo Interweave Press

Been avoiding patterns with bobbles because you weren’t sure how to do them?  ”5 Ways to Work a Bobble” will get you bobbling along so you can knit a cute Miercoles Tam (Dragonfly Fibers Blue Face Worsted will make those stitches really pop) or Geraldine Cardigan (Miss Babs Northumbria DK is another BFL yarn with great stitch definition.)

Mix your bobbles with cushy garter stitch for a Petra Shawl in locally-dyed Neighborhood Fiber Co. Studio Worsted, or make a pretty Pomes Beret in Canopy Fingering from The Fibre Company.

Next up, designer Stefanie Japel discusses “Gauge, Drape & Yarn Weight,” and demonstrates how to use them to best effect in the Bermondsey Cardigan (try naturally dyed Swans Island Certified Organic Chunky) and the delicate Nevis Cardigan (grab some Viola Merino Lace before it’s gone!)

Uxbridge Cardigan - photo Interweave Press

A few more cardigans are in store for you – knit a pretty little Stanmore Cardigan in Road to China Light for lovely drape and warmth. Add your own style to the blazer-inspired Wragby Cardigan with your choice of yarn – this pattern will show off a snuggly tweed like Berroco Tara Tweed or a rich semi-solid hand dye like Neighborhood Fiber Co. Studio Worsted equally well.

Play up the simplicity of the Netherleigh Cardigan with a textured yarn like The Fibre Company Acadia, a beautifully drapey blend of Merino, silk, and alpaca. Finally, finish off your fall fibre fashion with the swingy Uxbridge Cardigan – this dolman sleeved style requires a lot of yardage, but Berroco Vintage DK will keep it an affordable knit.

With all of these great patterns, you’re sure to be warm and well-dressed this winter!

It is rare that a book comes along that contains more than two or three garments that I want to knit. Today we got a delivery of the brand new Hannah Fettig (Knitbot) and Alana Dakos (Never Knot Knitting) book, Coastal Knits. It is just stunning. Hannah and Alana decided to pair up to produce a book that combined both of their creativity. They settled on a “coast to coast” theme, given that Hannah is an East coast native and Alana is a West coast native. Each pattern is inspired by one of their favorite locations, and the book includes stunning photography of the site and inspiration for the garment.

Coastal Knits contains five sweater patterns and five accessory patterns. They are all classic and gorgeous. Let’s start with this one, the Rocky Coast Cardigan which is made in the Fibre Company Organik. It uses 800-1800 yards. The cable pattern is straightforward and can be memorized after a bit…don’t let those cables scare you! This garment is amazing.

Photo from Coastal Knits

The Bayside Cardigan is also on my “highly recommend” list for one big reason: it uses fingering weight yarn. Who doesn’t have a pile of this gauge sitting around the house? It uses 950 – 2175 yards. I love the cable details on the yoke and the sides. Try this one with a machine dyed yarn like Spud and Chloe Fine or Berroco Ultra Alpaca Fine. The solid dye will really allow the cables to shine.

Bayside Pullover - photo by Coastal Knits

I have two favorites from the accessories collection: Sand and Sea Shawlette and the Cambrian Cowl. The shawlette uses two types of yarn, combining a shiny silk with a wool to create the “sand” and “sea” affect. I would suggest a merino or merino blend laceweight for the main color: Miss Babs Yet or Manos del Uruguay Lace and then use the Neighborhood Fiber Co penthouse silk for the edging. (or perhaps Dream in Color Starry for a glitzy edging!) I also think that this shawlette would be very cool in the Louisa Harding Grace Silk and Wool with the Beaded Grace for the edging. These last yarns are DK weight, so the shawl would be larger but rather stunning…just a thought.

Sand and Sea Shawlette. Photo courtesy of Coastal Knits.

The Cambrian Cowl is a quick knit, which we all need at this time of year. My favorite part about this project is that it could potentially show off a couple of very cool buttons! For yarns, I recommend Sublime Chunky Tweed or even Blue Sky Alpacas Techno for a snuggly soft option.

Cambrian Cowl. Photo courtesy of Coastal Knits.

Did I mention that these savvy ladies sent along a fab shopping guide with each copy of the book to help you pick out yarn?

Manos del Uruguay Maxima: single-ply wool in brilliant kettle-dyed colors.

It’s said that, if someone learns to knit with Manos del Uruguay yarn, that person will be a knitter for life. Here at fibre space™, we’ve met lots and lots of people who swear by this wonder fibre. It’s not just delightful to the touch. It’s not just presented in amazing colorways. It’s also produced by a co-op that started more than 40 years ago to help women in Uruguay earn their own living.

Long a shining example to other knitting companies, Manos recently was admitted as a full member of the World Fair Trade Organization. Membership in the WFTO requires an thorough evaluation in which a company proves that it has a 100% commitment to fair trade and follows the organization’s 10 Principles of Fair Trade in its daily operations. But Manos does much more than that.

Yarn dries in the sun at a Manos Co-Op.

The first kindergartens in Uruguay were founded by the Manos cooperatives, to provide childcare for Manos artisans. Manos provides health insurance, maternity leave, paid vacations, and retirement pensions to its members. The Manos cooperatives are 17 individual small businesses: each is run individually, but together they make up a well-organized business.

The Manos model is truly special, and fibre space™ is proud to become a Manos yarn shop. We’re stocking Manos Silk Blend, Maxima, and Lace – a trio of stunning yarns. Let us take you on a tour of the wonder that has arrived at the shop…

Lacy and cropped, the Moonstone cardigan is sure to be a staple this fall.

Silk Blend. Manos Silk Blend is 70% merino wool and 30 percent silk. The silk gives this yarn a gorgeous sheen, while the wool remains soft and squishy. A DK-weight yarn available in 40 semi-solid colors and 17 space-dyed colors, Silk Blend’s versatility means you’ll use it again and again, while its drape and color will get you compliments once you’re done knitting!

Try knitting Churchmouse Yarns & Teas’ Welted Fingerless Gloves in Silk Blend for a quick-knit holiday present that will earn you compliments (or a gift to yourself to remind you that fall is coming!). Another great gift idea is the Forest Canopy Cowl, a lace cowl that shows off Manos’ silk content nicely. Or treat yourself to a Welt and Rib Raglan, in which different kinds of ribbing shape this raglan sweater to flatter your body and show off the color you select. The truly bold will make themselves a Moonstone Cardigan – striking in space-dyed colorways, and sure to be gorgeous in any of the semisolid options as well. Slightly cropped, with lacy hem and cuffs, this is a great transition garment, as fall arrives and you start layering.

The Cilantro Shawl will keep you warm at a football game this fall or impress a gift recipient this winter.

Maxima. A single-ply, kettle-dyed worsted weight wool, this yarn is Manos at its finest. The yarn is squishy and soft, and Manos’ famous colors are sharp and dazzling in wool. Available in 15 space-dyed and 11 semi-solid colors, Maxima will capture your heart and keep you coming back.

Try Amy Swenson’s Cilantro Shawl in Maxima for cozy flair. This long wrap is warm yet stylish, and lets you knit lace without ending up with a grandmotherly result. Make one for yourself this fall, and one for a friend once you’ve got the hang of it – she’ll be really grateful when the holidays roll around! Or try the Elysium cardigan for a fun transitional garment with a unique fit. Knit from side to side in garter stitch, Elysium is a simple garment that will still teach you something new – and the garter stitch pattern works wonderfully for kettle-dyed yarn. Finally, the Quest Hat patterns from Knitty’s Winter 2011 edition will work wonders with Manos Maxima – and, again, please your nearest and dearest come gift-giving time.

The Veyla Mitts are another great gift idea - or keep them for yourself!

Lace. Last but not least, Manos Lace is a blend of baby alpaca, silk, and cashmere – sure to please the highest standards. You’ll want to make all your shawls in this yarn once you’ve seen it, but start with Susanna IC’s Little Leaves, to remind you that the leaves will soon be falling from the trees and we’ll be back in prime knitting season. If you aren’t yet up for a lace shawl, try Ysolda Teague’s Veyla mitts – their lace cuffs will dress up your winter garb, and (once again) serve as a lovely, quick-to-knit gift.

Whatever you choose to make, we’ll be here for help and encouragement – so hurry down to the shop and check out Manos. You’ll be glad you did!

Named after a national park in Maine, Acadia blends merino, baby alpaca, and silk into a gorgeous DK-weight yarn.

One of the most exciting new yarns of the season comes to fibre space™ this week – The Fibre Company’s Acadia (rav link). Acadia is a two-ply blend of merino, baby alpaca, and silk. This Friday, we will be one of the first shops in the nation to have this yarn in stock. Come down and admire it in person (and maybe get yourself a skein or two)!

The Fibre Company puts months of development and careful thought into each new yarn it creates, and Acadia is another masterpiece. With its DK weight and range of glorious colors, this yarn is a must for warmer weather knitting. The different fibers in Acadia take dye in slightly different ways, giving the yarn a tweedy appearance, and the silk has occasional slubs reminiscent of The Fibre Company’s Terra.

The Avery Cowl by Kate Gagnon Osborn was designed for Acadia yarn.

The Fibre Company has already released a free pattern for Acadia, the beautiful Avery Cowl (rav link) designed by Kate Gagnon Osborn. Although you won’t be wearing a cowl in the DC heat this summer, this is a great project to take with you when you’re traveling – compact enough to rest on your lap and yet interesting enough to keep you busy. The lace in the cowl is beautiful – you’ll get lots of compliments on your handiwork.

Another cowl option is the Wicker Cowl (rav link), also a free download and also designed by Kate. The Wicker Cowl was designed for The Fibre Company’s Savannah, but the two yarns may be substituted for each other. The very simple Honey Cowl (rav link), another free pattern, would show off Acadia’s tweediness nicely.

The Linden Shawl is perfect for walks on the beach or evenings out.

Not feeling cowl-ish? Consider making the Linden Shawl (rav link), a wrap designed by Courtney Kelley that proves modern shawls can be chic. Simple yet beautiful, lacy yet not too frilly, Linden would be lovely over a little black dress on a summer evening or paired with jeans and a tank top on the beach.Or try it with a short summer dress, the way the model is wearing it! The options are endless.

Consider knitting Linden in one of the more complex colors, like Summersweet or Dusk, to give your stitches some depth – or choose a deep color like Blackberry to give the shawl some oomph.

Heidi Kirrmaier's Peasy Cardigan will keep you comfortable in DC's aggressively air conditioned offices, or on a cool summer night at the beach.

If you really want to pamper yourself with Acadia – and especially if you work in one of those offices where the air conditioning is always cranked – you’ll make yourself a cardigan.

Heidi Kirrmaier‘s Peasy Cardigan (rav link) has a lace panel at the yoke and 3/4 sleeves to make this a transition garment. Knit from the top down, this is a great pattern for an intermediate beginner who wants to move beyond hats and scarves. The pattern is available as a Ravelry download in a range of sizes from XS (32) to XXL (50).

If you prefer your cardigans a bit simpler, check out Hannah Fettig’s new Spring Ribbed Cardigan (rav link). It has lovely half-sleeves and a ribbed pattern that clings in the right places. Another top-down pattern, it’s available as a Ravelry download and is available in bust sizes 32 through 56.

We’re as happy as pigs in mud to announce the arrival of a new hand dyed yarn from Alexa Riether of Oink Pigments.

Lexi hails from sunny southern California, where she’s been dyeing yarn for just over a year!

She says, “Dyeing yarn is such a HUGE passion of mine. I think I might love it more than knitting – if that’s even possible! It’s so satisfying to come up with an idea and then actually create it and to have other people love it as much as I do.”

Ladybug Love - photo by Oink Pigments

We can’t decide which we love more, the bright happy colorways or the clever color names!

Some of our favorites: Pretty in Oink, Steam Boat Wooly, and Retro Rocket (of course!)

Lexi says, “Coming up with the names for the new colors is always fun. Some just scream what their name should be, and others take a little bit longer. The naming process is often a group effort with my fiance and roommates shouting out ideas.”

Slime Time - photo by Oink Pigments

In between dye sessions, Lexi also knits, crochets, and is currently planning her wedding (congratulations!)

She says, “My fiance is a big help with everything, but most of all naming – since after all he is the KING of bad puns.”

Lexi plans to expand her line with new colors and yarns in the coming months – we can’t wait to see what she’ll come up with next!

Sunset Fiesta - photo by Oink Pigments

We are currently carrying Oink Pigments in 24 variegated colorways in worsted weight superwash Merino – a 230 yard skein is just $16!

With such great yardage, you can make a super affordable project – here’s a few ideas for you!

Jane Richmond’s Mustard Scarf will be a quick knit on US 15 needles – a great Perl Grey or Moving Mud button would be a perfect accent for this one-skein project.

In Threes: A Baby Cardigan takes one skein for the smallest size or just two skeins for up to a 5T size!

A slouchy Etta hat would be super cute in a gently variegated color… what’s your favorite?

Retro Rocket - photo by Oink Pigments

photo - Interweave Knits

Although the weather may not be showing it yet, it really has been spring for a while and it’s nearly time to start our summer knitting. The very first summer issue of Knitscene is here just in time to remind us that there are plenty of reasons to keep on knitting even though it’s warm out!

This issue’s exclusive Designer Collection features four designs from Amy Christoffers. You’ll look smart enough to take tea with the Queen in the  Windsor Cardigan,  with its classic styling and pretty lace pattern – we think Louisa Harding’s new Ianthe yarn will suit this pattern to a T with its wool & cotton blend. The lace continues on the Strafford Tee in Elsebeth Lavold Hempathy – always one of our summer yarn favorites. This pattern looks to be a staff favorite too; who doesn’t need a great little summer top?

Windsor Cardigan - photo Interweave Knits

Icy air conditioning a bit much? Wrap yourself in all the colors of summer with a Shelburne Scarf, wide enough to serve as a shawl in a pinch. Create your own color palette with hand-dyed Miss Babs Yummy 3-ply Sport & Sock.

A fitted boat-neck pullover with three-quarter length sleeves you say? Sign me up! I can never get enough of this classic style that calls to mind fashion icons like Coco Chanel. You too can feel fresh and French in the Vergennes Pullover – the lightweight drape of our yarn pick, Elsebeth Lavold Silky Wool, can’t fail to flatter!

Next, get far from the madding crowd with the “Summer Cottage” collection, starting with the easy wrap style of the Genesee Cardigan featured on the cover. Perfect to toss on over a t-shirt on a cool summer night, you’ll have this knit up in no time. We’re picking machine washable Berroco Weekend Chunky to make caring for this cardi as quick as knitting it!

The lovely Loon Island Shawl will have you looking forward to warm summer nights and long lazy walks on the beach with that special someone  - pick a color of hand-dyed Fiberphile Super Squish Lace to set off your suntanned shoulders. The lacy texture of the Mayville Cardigan calls for a stunning semi-solid hand dye – have you seen the new colors of Studio Sport from Neighborhood Fiber Company?

Lodi Cardigan - photo Interweave Knits

The French Creek Skirt will make a pretty swimsuit coverup in Tahki Yarns Ripple – we’re choosing this unique thick & thin cotton tape yarn for its lovely sheen and drape. Knit on US 10′s, you’ll have this done in time to hit the beach this weekend! The lacy Seneca Shrug is the perfect little something you need to top off a sundress - choose your favorite fingering weight hand-dyed yarn from our ever-growing assortment of amazing dyers!

Relax in the drapy Mountour Falls Cardigan with its pretty cabled edging – we think The Fibre Company Savannah will really set off your stitches here with its summery blend of wool, cotton, linen, and soya. Or perhaps you prefer the slimmer styling of the Lodi Cardigan designed by our very own Tanis Gray? The top-down raglan construction set off with a bit of garter stitch for texture would make a great first cardigan project in easy care Spud & Chloe Sweater.

Heading north for the summer? Snuggle up in the soft Sackets Harbor Pullover – Cascade Alpaca Lace is a great affordable option for this Hannah Fettig design.

Rayleigh Tee - photo Interweave Knits

Summer is all about “Freedom”, the next story up, featuring a whole series of great tops and tanks to complete your warm weather wardrobe! The Sigma Tee cools you off with its dropped-stitch detailing – try cool cotton & linen Mirasol Lachiwa.  The scoop-back styling on the Joule Pullover will show off your tan -  we think this would look great in solid or multicolored Berroco Linsey. Keep the color going with a Heliosphere Tank in Berroco Origami!

The swingy lines of the Penumbra Tee are as carefree as a summer breeze in tweedy eco-friendly Berroco Remix. Wendy Bernard’s Radian Yoke tee is another pattern where Elsebeth Lavold’s Hempathy is the natural choice.  The Rayleigh Tee has cute nautical-inspired styling and is knit up in one of our favorite organic yarns, O~Wool Balance from Tunney Wool Company. Finally, the scoop-necked Mie Pullover with its flattering ribbed side panels will work up a treat in soft Berroco Pure Pima.

Astrolabe Vest - photo Interweave Knits

Speaking of nautical style… this fashion trend is huge for summer! “Sail Away” into the next group of patterns, starting with the Insignia Shawl. This garter stitch shawl cleverly uses different size needles to create its textured stripes – what could be easier? A bold color of Berroco Weekend will pop against your navy & white!

Plot your course in the Astrolabe Vest, worked up fast in garter stitch on big needles – DK weight yarn makes it extra drapy. Hand-dyed Dream in Color Everlasting DK in aquatic-themed colorways like Dive or Tidewater will make it extra gorgeous!

You’ll be ready to set sail in style with the pretty, vintage-inspired Starboard Cape knitted in The Fibre Company’s Canopy Fingering. Or drop those stitches overboard for an Embassy Scarf in Miss Babs Yasmin silk & merino laceweight.

We love summer berets to pop on over windblown hair! Knit up the Champlain Hat in Blue Sky Alpacas Dyed Cotton – this organic cotton yarn comes in so many colors you’ll want to make one to go with everything. Work up some snuggly Clipper Mitts in Louisa Harding Kashmir Baby.

Last but not least, the Figurehead Shawl is striped in two colors of Spud & Chloe Sweater and has a pretty scalloped edging and sweet button closure detail (check out the picture on page 83!)- go as subtle or as bold as you like!

Don’t forget the articles! Stephen West plays with garter stitch, Melissa J. Goodale explains the intricacies of mitered corners, and Selma Moss-Ward muses on summer knitting. (There’s even a recipe for chocolate zucchini bread, yum!) Check out the great KnowIt section with instructions for buttonholes, seaming, cast-ons, and more!