Lately, all kinds of striped and multicolored shawl patterns have been popping up on Ravelry. It’s no wonder, since this is a great way to experiment with color without getting into more complicated knitting techniques. One designer known for his colorful shawls, Stephen West, is hosting the Westknits Mystery Shawl Knitalong: Earth & Sky. His innovative designs are fun to knit, so I immediately had to be a part of this. Intrigued?

Vibrant colors from NFC

The way this mystery KAL works is you receive weekly clues from the designer that guide you to the next part of the pattern (which you get a nice discount on through the end of August). You will be part of 1000+ Ravelers participating, so there is plenty of support along the way. To get started, you need three different colors in a fingering or sport weight yarn. Picking out colors can sometimes be the hard part of the project, but Mr. West dedicated the first pattern installment to color choices. Many of the yarns he likes for this pattern are available at the shop, and we are flush with new colors in these fabulous picks. You can go for a subtle, tonal effect with The Fibre Company Road to China Light, a dreamy and unbelievably soft yarn in an iridescent palette. For the more daring color lovers, see what you can create with Neighborhood Fiber Co. Studio Sock. With glowing hues like Del Ray and Georgetown, you are certain to have a shawl that stands out! Come by this weekend and have your fibre space™ Yarnistas help you put together color combinations!

Ready to sign on? It’s not too late — clue #1 will be released August 1st. Get the pattern here.

“[A shawl] is perfect travel-knitting, as I have proved to myself many times. A round shawl, in fine wool, on a circular needle, is my invariable companion when space is limited, waiting-around probable, and events uncertain.” –Elizabeth Zimmermann, The Knitter’s Almanac

The Stripe Study Shawl: Knit in garter stitch, this fun pattern will teach you new and exciting things about how colors go together. Photo courtesy 100% rain.

Take a page, literally, from Elizabeth Zimmermann’s Knitter’s Almanac (available at the shop) and start a shawl before you dash out of town to beat the heat. Even if you’re sticking around for August, you’ll want some light, portable knitting to take with you from air-conditioned home to air-conditioned office. A shawl, as EZ tells us, is just the thing. The light yarn used in most shawls won’t make you hot as you knit, and it will fit neatly into your project bag to take with you everywhere.

Like the imaginary reader in Zimmermann’s book, you may be protesting, “But a shawl is difficult.” As Zimmermann says, “My dears, it’s not.” A rectangular shawl is like a great big scarf, and most of you started knitting by making a scarf, didn’t you? Meanwhile, a round shawl is a bit like a great bit hat, with increases instead of decreases. What is the second project we encourage you to make at fibre space? A hat. You’re well on your way to making the shawl you want, whether square or round, if you can knit and increase. [And, heck, you can learn to increase using the videos at knittinghelp.com.] Other than those skills, all you really need to knit a shawl is the confidence and patience you’ve gained by knitting those first few projects.

Can You See The Lime Slice? The citron shawl. Photo courtesy knitty.com.

New to shawls? Go for a classic and try EZ’s Pi Shawl from Knitter’s Almanac. Circular with just six shaping rounds, this pattern can be as easy or as difficult as you like (as many EZ classics can). If you go to Ravelry and search for “Pi Shawl” in patterns, you’ll see how influential this simple piece has been: its construction is the basis for many more complicated shawl patterns today. Elizabeth tells you how to cast on and where the increases should  be, and encourages you to add lace elements or not, according to your courage and your style. For real inspiration, check out Mwaa Knit‘s set of 6 free patterns, each based on the Pi Shawl, each written to celebrate the 100th anniversary of EZ’s birth last August.

If you’re looking for something smaller than a full circle, try Hilary Smith Callis’ Citron, which dazzled Knitty readers a few winters ago. A simple half-circle designed to dress up a little black dress, Citron is easy yet fun, and takes just 470 yards of laceweight yarn (check out the Neighborhood Fiber Co Pagoda that we just got into the shop). Though the original sample reminded Hilary of a lime slice, we can see knitters making oranges, lemons, or even some kind of purple citrus fruit – this shawl will glow in any of our gorgeous hand dyed lace colors.

The Schieffelin Point Shawl: Learn a knitted-on lace edge with this fun intermediate project. Photo courtesy Kelbourne Woolens.

If you want to make something with a little more weight (and are wondering what to do with the skeins of Acadia you picked up last month)? The Schieffelin Point Shawl is perfect for the shawl knitter who wants to learn how shawls are constructed. It’s mostly garter stitch, with increase rows at intervals, and there’s a knitted-on lace border that would be perfect for any knitter who wants to learn this part of shawl construction (so much easier than it sounds; we promise!).

The Stripe Study Shawl that’s all the buzz on Ravelry is knit in garter stitch (easy!) but in two different colors (fun! interesting!). Designer Veera Välimäki is one of fibre space’s favorite new designers, and this shawl shows off her signature style: putting a modern twist on old standards.  We can see this one looking great in two different colors of Miss Babs Yet or Squoosh Merino Cashmere Sock. Available for €3,90 (about $5.60) as a PDF download on Ravelry, this pattern will delight you, and the finished product will earn you praise from one and all. After you finish it, you can graduate to Veera’s 3/4 Hap Shawl, based on the traditional Shetland Hap shawls. Before you know it, you’ll be working one of the gorgeous creations in The Happsalu Shawl: A Knitted Lace Tradition from Estonia (available, of course, at the shop) – all thanks to Elizabeth Zimmermann and the heat of the DC summer.

The Fall 2011 issue of Knitscene has just arrived in the shop, and we’re cooling ourselves down by planning autumn projects. Stop by and grab a copy!

Amy Herzog in her fantastic Pinstripe Pullover from the new issue of Knitscene. Come and get it!

We’re also patting ourselves on our backs because the issue features a Fit to Flatter section with Amy Herzog – the extension of a workshop Amy presented here at fibre space in May. Are we ahead of the curve, or what?

While she was here, Amy brought lots of sweaters for workshop participants to try on while determining what looks best on their figure – and, in this issue of Knitscene, Amy’s designer feature offers an option for every figure, and a detailed article by Amy on making modifications to any sweater.

We’re especially excited about The Pinstripe Pullover, a beautiful sweater that would look amazing in Sublime Cashmere Merino Silk Aran or Stonehedge Shepherd’s Wool. The sweater is knit flat and the pinstripes are made with the intarsia technique, so here’s a chance to learn a new skill and look chic when you’re done.

Melissa J. Goodale's Counterfort Pullover is knit in the round from the top down.

More interested in a DK-weight sweater? Try Melissa J. Goodale‘s Counterfort Pullover, which is knit seamlessly and features a fun blocky pattern at the yoke. We think this one would be yummy in Miss Babs Northumbria or the Fibre Company Acadia. The sweater is knit top-down starting with the yoke, offering another opportunity to learn something while starting your fall wardrobe.

Not yet ready to face fall and an entire sweater? Knitscene is packed with accessories, including lots of hats and a gorgeous shawlette by Rosemary Hill and a fantastic shawl by fibre space’s own Tanis Gray.

The Hawkmoth Pullover is light enough to wear as soon as you finish it.

Still too heavy for you? The Hawkmoth Pullover, knit out of lace-weight merino yarn, will take you through the rest of the summer and into the warm DC fall. We want to make one of these out of Neighborhood Fiber Co. Maisonette, or Miss Babs Yet. Although the sample in the photo is made of a sedate charcoal, we can see this really popping in a jewel tone.

With all these options and more, this issue of Knitscene is already flying off our shelves (along with yarn for some very exciting projects). Drop in and see for yourself – and don’t hesitate to ask us for help if you’re unsure about yarn or supplies. See you soon!

Berroco Sox Metallic is a self-striping sock yarn with a touch of glitter. Fancy!

Self-striping yarn: You’ve seen it in the shop, but since you aren’t a sock knitter you’ve passed it on by.  Or maybe you are a sock knitter, and your stash has so many balls of the stuff that you need some non-sock options to work through all of it.  Or something in between.  Or maybe…you haven’t heard of self-striping yarn at all yet.  Just wait!

Self-striping yarn is just what it sounds like: yarn that changes colors for you, so you don’t have to fiddle around with multiple balls of solid-colored yarn. Some of the patterns just stripe, like Berroco Sox Metallic; check out the Berroco website to see how this sock yarn with gold and silver highlights knits up. Some sock yarns are printed with more complicated patterns; Knitting Fever Indulgence 6-ply, for example, knits up into socks that look like they have fair isle patterning in them.

What if you just aren’t a sock person? Are patterned yarns lost to you for good?  Of course not!  fibre space is here to show you what to do with them.

The Patches Baby Sweater uses modular knitting and self-striping yarn to create a fun, unique look.

The Patches Baby Sweater, an adorable pattern available for download on Ravelry, can be made with Indulgence or any other patterned sock yarn. This would be a great project for a long car trip this summer, and it’s a fun introduction to modular knitting as well.

Is your favorite kid just a bit older? Elizabeth Zimmermann’s Surprise Jackets, for which patterns are now available in baby, child, and adult sizes, are old favorites for self-striping yarn. The surprise of this pattern is that you knit it flat, then fold it into a jacket. It’s like magic! Plus, if you haven’t yet knit something by knitting’s resident genius, you haven’t lived a full knitting life. Now’s the time!

Brooklyn Tweed's Noro Striped Scarf will teach you a thing or two about color theory.

Some companies, like Crystal Palace, make self-striping yarns in heavier weights, and there are knitters who swear by variegated yarns for beginners, because the color changes make it easy for them to see individual stitches. We think you’ll learn something, beginner or not, if you use Crystal Palace’s Mochi Plus for a Noro Striped Scarf by Jared Flood. This pattern, which is available for free on the Brooklyn Tweed website, capitalizes on the color changes in two skeins of striping yarn to create a rainbow of stripes. This is another perfect travel project, and would be a great holiday gift for a loved one. Those of us at the shop who have made this scarf loved to watch the stripes of the two skeins combine in surprising ways as the skeins’ colors changed.

The Mochi Plus Spiral Hat proves that garter stitch can be beautiful.

Not up for a whole scarf? Try Sandi Rosner’s Mochi Plus Swirl Hat. Available for free on the Crystal Palace website, this pattern uses a unique spiral construction to create a stylish hat that really shows off the variegation in the yarn. This project would be fun for a near-beginner; the hat is knit flat and then seamed, and worked in garter stitch in different directions. This hat looks like it could take you through fall into winter, and would be a great gift as well. Since it uses just two balls of yarn we’re betting you’ll want to make more than one.

Whatever you decide to make with your variegated yarn, stop in and show us the results; we love to see finished objects!

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.

The shop now has all thirty (count ‘em – 30!) colors of Neighborhood Fiber Co. Loft in stock, and they are gorgeous. Ranging from a pale periwinkle to the boldest orange, the color palette is bound to include one of your favorites. You can check out the most popular colorways on the yarn’s Ravelry page while the NFC website undergoes its facelift.

Even better, this blend of silk and mohair is perfect for knitting summer garments: light enough that you won’t get hot if your project is draped in your lap, and delicate enough that both project and finished product will fit into your suitcase easily if you’re headed out of town.

NFC Loft offers a color for everyone, and then some. This photo looks blurry - but that's actually the mohair halo on this beautiful yarn.

The biggest problem we foresee in this yarn is choosing a color: the options are endless. Consider the colorways we suggest below, but don’t limit yourself. You have a whole rainbow to choose from. If you were part of Ann Weaver‘s color theory workshop last weekend, or if you’re up for some experimentation, you might choose a colorway in Loft and a complementary (or contrasting!) color in Malabrigo Merino Worsted or even Viola Silky DK to make the Purl Scarf from Last Minute Knitted Gifts (a fantastic book that’s available at the shop).

The Mohair Bias Loop: an effortless yet chic summer accessory. Photo courtesy Churchmouse Yarns & Teas.

Watching how the two colorways knit up together will give you a whole new perspective on how colors combine and how different fibers take color. We have a similar scarf on display in the shop if you’d like to see this one up close and personal.

The Mohair Bias Loop by Churchmouse Yarns is a simple loop garment knit on the bias. You can wear this lovely piece as a wrap (see photo), doubled into a cowl, or draped around your neck as a long endless scarf.

The ingenuity of this garment make it a perfect choice to pack for vacation this summer – or to make your next “staycation” feel special. The Rock Creek Park colorway, a bright teal blue, would make this pattern glow next to your face, or you could go more subtle and try it in the periwinkle of Randle Circle.

This is a great pattern for beginning or intermediate knitters; it’s knit flat and seamed together, so if you’ve made a scarf this could be the perfect second project.

Veronique from French Girl Knits: Wear it daily, even if you aren't going to Paris this summer.

If you’re looking for something with a bit more cover and a bit more challenge, consider Kristeen Griffin-Grimes‘ Veronique from French Girl Knits (another book available at the shop – this one a lovely, chic collection inspired by French fashion).

A light bolero, this sweater would be perfect over a strapless dress at a beach wedding, or would dress up a tank top and jeans the next time you’re in Rehoboth. It would pop in the bright orange of Cooper Circle or the purple of Truxton Circle, but then Thomas Circle, a deep charcoal colorway, might make a more versatile garment.

Not excited about sewing the seams on this baby? The French Girl Fans group on Ravelry has a tutorial on knitting Veronique in the round.

The Seascape Stole: a lacy reminder of a day at the beach. Photo courtesy knit/lab.

The really brave among you will want to try knitting the Seascape Stole in Loft. Its undulating lace pattern recalls the calming movement of ocean waves and the roll of sand dunes, so whether your in town or out you’ll have a little bit of the beach to surround you.  This pattern would be stunning in the deep blue of the Georgetown colorway or the green of Logan Circle.

Whatever you choose to make, bring it to the shop so we can take a look!

Some people may associate knitting with heavy sweaters and scarves, but the latest issue of Interweave Knits is making me wish for more summer knitting. Visit the shop to see all the patterns!

Photo Credit: Interweave Knits

Dress up summer layers with the Al Fresco Camisole. This one involves a bit of crocheting to create the seams and straps, but it is no more complicated than picking up a dropped stitch. Make it extra slinky in Baby Bamboo, a bamboo and wool blend that is soft and cool.

Photo Credit: Interweave Knits

If you are looking for a great summer sweater, the Adriatic Cardigan features a striped lacy pattern in a classic silhouette that can be thrown on over your favorite warm-weather outfits. It is perfect for the season in Berroco Linsey, a cotton and linen blend in a soft palette.

Photo Credit: Interweave Knits

What is better to knit in the heat than a little luxury for your toes? Cast on for the Hourglass Lace Socks in your favorite handpainted yarn. These socks are a faster knit on size 2 needles, and will be spectacular in Nichole by Schaefer Yarn, a heavy fingering weight yarn in colors inspired by “Memorable Women.” Try the Elizabeth Zimmerman colorway!

Photo Credit: Interweave Knits

An interesting neckline and a seamless, top-down construction are the elements that make this top a joy to knit and wear. The Cumulus Tee has a flattering tunic length that dresses up a summer outfit. Knit it in Hempathy for an easy care garment with an elegant drape.

Ann Weaver explains to the Color Theory workshop how she chose the colors for her Albers Cowl.

The delightful and brilliant Ann Weaver of Weaverknits visited Space this weekend, teaching two workshops – Color Theory for Knitters and the Albers Cowl. We’ve long been impressed by Ann’s distinctive color sense and her chic patterns, which are inspired by such diverse things as modern art, punk rockers, and the Dutch speed skating team. Her enthusiastic and generous teaching style attracted more than just the class participants this weekend, and most of us are casting on for Albers Cowls this weekend (if you want to join us, the book’s available online or at the shop!).

For an Albers Cowl, you’ll want to select between 4 and 7 colors of fingering weight yarn.  Neighborhood Fiber Co. Penhouse Silk Fingering would be a good choice here, or even the new Squoosh Merino Cashmere Sock. Try to pick colors with which you want to experiment – and don’t hesitate to ask the staff for help if you’re feeling overwhelmed!

If you were hoping to start with fewer colors than that, try the Honeycomb Shawl, which combines fun and interesting lace with a contrasting edge for some color adventure. It, too, would be gorgeous in NFC Silk Fingering or one of Sanguine Gryphon‘s many fingering-weight options.

Ann (with different hair color and different eyeglasses - switching is her habit) models the Tiny Brocade Cardigan. Photo courtesy Weaverknits.

If cowls aren’t your thing, you might try Ann’s lovely Tiny Brocade Cardigan, which is knit in cotton and would be a perfect layer for spring and summer evenings. Blue Sky Alpacas Dyed Cotton offers wonderful color options for the patterned yoke, or you might try Spud & Chloe Sweater (a blend of 55% wool and 45% cotton) if you’re feeling crazy. You can buy the pattern online through Ravelry or Weaverknits.

Another lovely option for evening layering is Silhouette, which features the color experimentation of the Albers Cowl with delicate shaping to flatter any figure.  Ann brought the sample for this sweater with her to the shop, and looking at the different yarns that went into it was a reminder that experimentation yields wonderful results.  Try Madelinetosh Tosh Sock or Tosh Light, The Fibre Company Canopy Fingering, or any other fingering-weight yarn that strikes your fancy.

Whatever you choose, Ann’s designs will delight you and teach you more about the craft than you knew before.  Get clicking!

So, do you knit in public, or are you too shy? Do you worry that someone will think you’re dangerous because you carry around pointy sticks, or do you consider it a knitterly duty to let your stitches out for some air as the weather turns warmer? Either way, you should be getting ready to knit in public with a bunch of other knitters on Worldwide Knit in Public Day. This exciting event has been around for several years and will be back next month (you can find or start a local event on their website), so it’s time to think about what you’ll knit.

Hannah Fettig's Sock Yarn Sweater is sized from newborn through women's 2X. Photo courtesy Knitbot.

If you’re going to be in the DC area, you’re going to want something that isn’t too big, because by the end of June you know it’s going to be a little warm around here. Lucky for you, knitting is a year-round hobby; even luckier, we have some ideas for you.

ONE: Something in Sock Yarn

Sock yarn is light and portable, yet offers exellent yardage. If you’re a traditionalist, you might knit some socks (Spring Forward or Glynis, perhaps?) – or you might step out of your comfort zone and use some Neighborhood Fiber Co. Capital Luxury Sock (rav lnk) or Squoosh Merino Cashmere Sock to make the Pogona shawl (rav lnk) or even Hannah Fettig’s Sock Yarn Sweater, especially if you or a friend is expecting a child. Pogona would also be lovely in Sanguine Gryphon Bugga, which just arrived back in the shop.

The Lace Ribbon Scarf will keep you warm in DC's aggressive A/C this summer. Photo courtesy Veronik Avery.

TWO: Something Lacy

Lace has lots of little holes (you’ve noticed that, right?) and so it will be much cooler on your lap than, say, that cabled afghan you’ve been trying to finish. Leave the afghan at home and try one of our lace projects instead.

The ever-popular Traveling Woman shawl will have you making new friends in no time, while the Lace Ribbon Scarf by Veronik Avery (free pattern!) will serve you well throughout the summer, when you’re moving from heat outside to the air-conditioned cold inside.

If you aren’t in the market for a little something around your shoulders, try the Make Up Your Mind racerback from the latest Knitty, which is lacy yet sexy.

THREE: Something Impressive

You’ll be out there with lots of other knitters, and let’s face it – you might want to show off a little.  Connie Chang Chinchio’s Sabbatical cardigan is lacy and lovely, and you’ll be able to wear it for evening walks on the beach when you go on vacation in August. Plus, CCC is one of Danielle’s favorite designers, so you’ll have something to talk to her about during Stitch in Space.

Joyce Fassbender’s Omelet, from the latest Knitty, will impress even the most jaded of knitters, and would look great with either jeans or a little black dress.

The Corinne cardigan is knit from side to side and would show off a kettle-dyed yarn beautifully.

FOUR: Something You Want

As always, the best thing to knit is something you want to wear! We’re eyeing the Corinne cardigan from the latest Knitty as well as Madrigal from Twist Collective.

Corinne was designed in Madelinetosh Tosh DK, and would be really pretty in shop favorite Miss Babs Yowza.Madrigal would be amazing in Elsebeth Lavold Silky Wool (rav lnk). All these yarns are available at the shop, of course – and we’re available to help you choose!

my lovely shawl!

The Shetland Trader – Book One is a showcase of some of my favorites in the knitting world — Gudrun Johnston designed the pieces, Jared Flood did the photography, and Ysolda Teague is one of the models! I am a big fan of Gudrun Johnston, and her designs are beautiful as ever in this book. In fact, I want to make every single thing in this collection, and am on my way to accomplishing that! To make it easier, most of the patterns in the book feature yarns we carry, including The Fibre Company yarns, Hempathy, madelinetosh prairie, and Malabrigo Sock.

The first project I finished back in December. I love the geometric lines in the Hömin Shawl, and Neighborhood Fiber Co. Studio Sock perfectly displays the lace and garter stitch. This yarn has a more prominent twist, giving the simplicity of the garter stitch section a nice texture. The construction of Hömin was new to me, and quite clever! The edging is worked first, then the body is knitted in short rows. Trust me, it is easier than it looks! If you want something a little different from the usual triangular shawl, try this one. It is more shallow and wide and looks great as a wrap or a scarf. I suggest you make it in your favorite color.

never too warm for a hand-knitted hat!

The next thing I had to have was Norie. I love the look of slouchy hats, and this one has a touch of lace that makes it more feminine than the usual slouch. A few of you have already made Norie and told me that you cut one of the lace repeats because it was either slouchy enough or you were short on yarn. The pattern calls for 260 yards of DK weight yarn, and Dream in Color Everlasting DK comes in hefty skeins of 275 yards that will get you through the entire pattern. Dream in Color yarns are spun and dyed in the USA through a special veil-dyeing process that keeps the colors from pooling. I chose the Brownie colorway, and I love the result.

Photo courtesy of Gudrun Johnston/Jared Flood

I may be crazy, but I am planning to knit the sweater on the cover…that is made with lace weight yarn. Laar is knitted on size 6 needles, so it is not as scary as it sounds. Gudrun Johnston designs many seamless sweaters, and this is no exception. Could you imagine seaming all those tiny stitches? With all the gorgeous lace yarns in the shop, choosing one will be tough. I think it will look amazing in Madelinetosh Prairie, a superwash Merino single-ply that feels like butter (but without the calories). Miss Babs Yasmin will work up nicely, too. Its crimped texture will add body to this lightweight cardigan.

Have you fallen for this collection, too? What are you knitting?

Amazing things were spotted in space today at Stitch in Space!

Here’s Katie in her lovely Lucette pullover – this great Amy Herzog design includes instructions for modifying the pattern for the perfect fit.

Katie in "Lucette"

Love the beaded neckline and hem, so pretty! This is knit in DK weight so it’s great for summer. Louisa Harding Ianthe or Berroco Pure Pima would be nice…

Someone “modeled” her Juneberry Triangle for us…

Mysterious Person in "Juneberry Triangle"

We have this beautiful Brooklyn Tweed shawl pattern in the shop – you can knit it in sport to worsted weight so there are plenty of yarns to choose from.

There were lots of works in progress too!

Stitch in Space!

Thanks for sharing your projects with us, everyone!

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!

Raina by Marnie MacLean Photo by Jamie Dixon

Did you know that the new Spring Twist Collective would go live today? We did, as we are up on our Twist Collective stalking skills. Don’t feel bad about stalking an online magazine. They make it very, very easy. Clearly, they want us to follow them incessantly, wondering anxiously when the next issue full of magical patterns would arrive. If you would like to stalk Twist along with me, just follow these easy steps (or, you know, just wait for it to come out):

1)      A month or two after the last issue has been released, I start combing the Twist collective site to find out when the next issue will come out. This is how I stumbled upon their Media Kit, which not only tells you when the next issue will be out (Tentative date for the Fall issue is August 1, if you were curious), but it also includes a list of projects and what yarn they use. This is smart, because it gives the yarn companies the heads up for advertising. But for me, it made me wonder if that “Women’s Lace Tee” in “Madelinetosh Pashmina in Posy” would be the right fit for the 3 skeins of “Fragrant” that I have at home…Looks like Raina by Marnie MacLean is just perfect! We have quite a few colors of Pashmina in right now, which one would you use?

I also have to admit that I started to wonder about the knitted lampshades…

Devonshire by Pam Powers Photo by Jane Heller

2)      Before the issue goes live, those clever Twist folks start posting random pictures over on their Facebook page. That’s where I got the first glimpse of the Devonshire Cardigan by Pam Powers. It’s even more adorable in color. I love the lacey detail, and I think that this would be stunning in Elsebeth Lavold silky wool (some colors still on sale!)

Carillon by Olga Buraya-Kefelian Photo by Jamie Dixon

3)      About a week before the issue goes live, the patterns start appearing on ravelry without pictures, but all the designers are listed. I was super excited to discover that one of our favorite people, Olga Buraya-Kefelian, had a pattern in this issue! Carillon is adorable, those lovely, little folded details have Olga’s fingerprints all over them. This top would be really divine in Fibre Company Road to China Light.

4)      If you want to be a true stalker, you can stay up to midnight the night before the issue comes out and keep refreshing your screen. The Wollmeisse stalkers tell me that there is some program that you can set to wake you up when a website refreshes, but I have to admit that I am not that dedicated. The patterns will still be there in the morning. In fact, I went to bed last night at a normal time last night and Kel saw the new issue before I did.

Ormond by Faina Goberstein Photo by Jane Heller

Some other favorites from this issue include Ormond by Faina Goberstein, which is exactly the kind of spring cardigan that I have been looking for. The O-Wool Balance is ideal for this project, and I have been itching to knit something in one of their new colors (Charorite is just gorgeous).

Trousseau Shawl by Carol Feller Photo by Jane Heller

I can’t even decide which of the shawls I like best in this issue. Trousseau by Carol Feller is so pretty and feminine, I think it would make a great addition to any spring outfit. Vesna (also the Russian word for Spring) by Susanna IC is a detailed Estonian lace pattern with the option to make a long rectangular stole, as well as a crescent shape shawl. Either of these patterns would look spectacular in the fiberphile super squish lace or sock that came in earlier this week.

Vesna by Susanna IC Photo by Jamie Dixon

Of course, if you can’t find something here that strikes your fancy, I’m sure that Miss Babs has something that will be right up your alley in her trunk show this weekend! Come visit us and share your spring knitting!

Where you wear your heart?

I don’t care if it’s totally cliche. If there’s any time to pull together a collection of heart patterns, it’s now. Knit and crochet designers – if not knitters and crocheters themselves – apparently love patterns with hearts, because there’s approximately a zillion of them on Ravelry. Lesley and I teamed up to bring you a few favorites, new and old, from some of our closest valentines and other cool designers we admire.

So where do you wear your heart? Here we go, from head to toe….

Right on top is Kate Gagnon Osborn’s Setesdal Love Hat, published in the Winter/Spring 2011 issue of Knitscene. By now you know I have a major soft spot for colorwork, but I’ve held my enthusiasm down to one project. This is it! Knit in the Fibre Company Canopy Fingering, it will be warm and soft.

image courtesy Interweave Knits

The La-La-Love-You Cowl, a free download from Popknits, is a subtle way to get a little love and snuggly warmth in. This neckwarmer is a quick knit in Malabrigo Worsted.

image courtesy Popknits

Susan and Sally, the Rainey Sisters, have posted their Sweetheart Glovelets pattern again. It’s a free and easy fingerless glove pattern with a heart motif on the back, perfect for something soft and luxurious, perhaps Blue Sky Alpacas Alpaca Sport?

Finally, there’s Wendy Johnson’s Heart to Heart Socks, from the book Toe Up Socks for Every Body. Did you follow my advice and get a skein of honeysuckle pink sock yarn last week, and now don’t know what to do with it, and are secretly cursing me?  I’m sure it will work great here.

Heart to Heart socks courtesy Wendy Johnson

Or perhaps you’d rather carry your heart. These wee cuties from Anna Hrachovec at Mochimochi Land (home of all things adorable – seriously, go look) are just the thing if you’d like to give away a tiny heart at the last moment. Great to use up leftovers!

"Hearts" courtesy Mochimochi Land

For more Valentine’s Day cuteness from Anna, you must look at her Coo and Coy lovebirds pattern. She even made up free valentines that you can download and print (one of them says “I want to knit you things” … awww!)

Too cutesy for you? I suppose you could be a bit more anatomically minded. Then the Heart pattern by Kristin Ledgett, published in Knitty, is for you. Science!

"Heart" image courtesy knitty.com

And, finally, Happy Valentine’s Day to all of you. Becky sent me an adorable Valentine in the mail, which was so nice! Have a good one and don’t eat too many conversation hearts.

PS. I’ve been working on a little lovey something myself… stay tuned for more!

photo Interweave LLC

We received the new issue of Knitscene today, so of course we immediately had to check it out!

Each issue features an exclusive pattern collection from a different designer – this time there are four designs from Debbie O’Neill, starting with the lacy Belvedere Cardigan in Spud & Chloe Sweater and the cabled Paperboy cardigan – we think this would look amazing in Stonehedge Fiber Mill’s Shepherd’s Wool!

Following these two great layering pieces are the adorable Piccadill Pullover (try it in Spud & Chloe Sweater or Blue Sky Alpacas Worsted Cotton – the shoulder construction will make this an interesting knit) and the Bas-Relief Socks, featuring twisted stitches and lace techniques. Pick a semi-solid sock yarn from your favorite hand dyer for these – you know we have plenty!

Next, “Go Farther Afield – With Knits That Take Unusual Turns”, starting with the Eternalism Vest – this is a great transitional piece as we slowly move toward warmer weather. We think this would look great in tweedy Berroco Campus or heathery Cascade 128.

The Magnanimity Cardi by popular designer Veera Välimäki has magnanimous pockets indeed, perfect for chilly hands! Elsebeth Lavold Silky Wool XL is our pick for creating a gorgeous tweedy look that won’t weigh you down.

Papeline Pullover - photo Interweave LLC

The Papeline Pullover features a little pop of color at the hems, a flattering cowl collar, and inventive centered decreases. Berroco Weekend would be a great easy care choice to make this sweater evcn more wearable! The Ikebana Pullover vest is constructed by joining two cabled panels to create a kimono-styled piece that’s perfect to wear over a crisp button-down shirt on cool spring days. Did we mention it’s knitted in O~Wool Balance, one of our favorite eco-friendly yarns that we’re bringing back for spring?

We were really excited to see the Chiton Pullover featured on the cover of this issue because we think this would be stunning in Viola Silky DK. The drapey silk and merino blend is a perfect choice for this Melissa Wehrle design. You’ll only need three skeins for the smallest size and five for the largest, so treat yourself to this gorgeous hand dyed yarn!

The Rayonnant Pullover is a top-down raglan with a pretty lace-detailed yoke – try this in the new Berroco Linsey cotton and linen blend that will be arriving soon.

Next up are four colorful designs that let you try Fair Isle colorwork without the need for steeks!

The Scandinavian folk art inspired Kenning Mitts will keep your hands toasty – try Louisa Harding Kashmir Baby for a soft machine washable option. The Mette-Marif Pullover has a clever faux placket detail and would look great over a long sleeved t-shirt, worked up in machine washable Vintage DK. The Solveig Yoke updates the traditional Fair Isle yoke pullover with flattering waist shaping and a pretty cowl collar. Go bright in Ella Rae Classics Superwash or classic in SHELTER from Brooklyn Tweed.

Setesdal Love Hat - photo Interweave LLC

Make the sweet Setesdal Love Hat by Kate Gagnon Osborn in The Fibre Company Canopy Fingering, a luscious alpaca, silk, and bamboo blend – the perfect Valentine!

A great selection of accessories is next! The ruffly Tuxedo Bag in Berroco Blackstone Tweed features charming menswear detailing. Courtney Kelley’s Bahía Shawl will snuggle you in cozy warmth – we love Pear Tree Supersoft Merino for this. Yum! You’ll feel daring (and warm!) in Daring Red Boot Socks – dare to pick your favorite color of Miss Babs Yummy Sport & Sock. The beaded Folk Flowers Shawl calls for a traditional wool like Stonehedge Fiber Mill’s Shepherd’s Wool Fingering, the Rosemary Street Cowl demands luxury like Pashmina from Madelinetosh, and the Bergamot Shawl would be elegant in Neighborhood Fiber Company Pagoda Lace or Madelinetosh Prairie.

The Mercury Cowl takes less than 200 yards of worsted weight yarn – a perfect reason to try a skein of gorgeous hand dyed Fiberphile Super Squish Worsted!  Top a pretty party dress with the Camellia Shrug – we think the luxurious alpaca, silk, and merino blend of Louisa Harding Willow Tweed in soft spring colors is the perfect choice!

Correa Hoodie - photo Interweave LLC

Feeling patterned out? Pause for a moment to read the excellent article on modifying raglan sleeves to get the perfect fit. But wait, there’s more!

Wrap things up with four belted sweaters! The Bälte Cardigan has fresh details that update its classic tweed look – we can’t wait for O~Wool Balance Chunky to arrive so we can try it out in this pattern! Pretty cabled Gürtel Cardigan would be soft and sweet in Sublime Cashmere Merino Silk DK. The lacy Correa Cardigan has a cute peaked hood and three-quarter length sleeves that make it a great spring topper – make it extra snuggly in Louisa Harding Kashmir Aran. Finally, the Bandha Hoodie is super versatile – you can also wear the removable hood as a cowl or not at all. Make it in machine washable eco-friendly Berroco Remix for a go-to weekend sweater you can wear well into summer!