|
I have another pattern update, and this one is especially for those of you living in warmer climates. Agave Tank was the first pattern I ever designed, and I'm happy to introduce new photos as well as an added shorter version. This tank was inspired by the year I moved back to Tucson, Arizona.
 |
| Photo © Kathy Cadigan 2013 |
I spent a lot of my growing-up years in Tucson, and I have to say I really didn’t have much appreciation for the natural beauty of the desert. I was born in Peru and having lived in the jungle until the age of eight, I never got used to the hot weather and having to wear shoes because of cacti and rocks and blazing pavement.
But when I returned to live in Tucson for a year as an adult, I was impressed by how striking the plants, the sunsets, and the storms were. I noticed things that I’d ignored as a kid because I had been so busy missing my climbing trees and grass and the lake.
What I appreciated the most, though, were the agave plants. They seemed like the perfect metaphor for the person I seek to be and the kind of art I want to create. They have this appearance of delicacy and beauty, but are at the same time, intensely pragmatic. Those elegant thorns are sharp and protective. The slick, fleshy leaves are graceful as well as being the perfect water storage device for an inhospitable climate. They’re lovely and functional.
And it isn’t just within the plant - they’re useful to people as well. If you carefully remove a thorn from the tip of an agave leaf without breaking the fibers it’s attached to, you have a read-made needle-and-thread that some indigenous people in the Sonoran Desert used for sewing.
The Andrea Rangel Knits logo is a graphic of an agave plant for this very reason. It reminds me what I love about the craft of knitting - its potential to create objects that are both practical and artistically beautiful.
I had spent a lot of time admiring the agaves in our backyard in Tucson when I came across this lace pattern in a Barbara Walker stitch dictionary. It had a vaguely plant-like feel, and I realized that when I turned it upside down, it was very reminiscent of the upward-reaching agave leaves. I decided it would be perfect for a top-down lace tank worked in a plant fiber so I could wear my knitting in the hot weather.
 |
Photo © Kathy Cadigan 2013
|
|
The tank features a row of single crochet at the top to help stabilize the edge, especially since plant fibers aren't very elastic. The I-cord straps cross at the back for a beautiful, distinct look that would work well over a camisole or racerback tank.
 |
| Photo © Kathy Cadigan 2013 |
I’ve always loved this design, and have wanted for a long time to update it so that I would be happier with the photos. I also wanted to include a shorter version, since I know tunic-length doesn’t work for everybody.
 |
| Photo © Kathy Cadigan 2013 |
|
The updated pattern includes both the short, wide-hemmed version, and the original tunic-length version. The layout has also been updated to match my current style sheet, and I took some time to re-write some of the pattern language. Reading the original pattern made me realize that I have (happily!) grown as a designer over the years, and I think the new way is clearer and more consistent.
 |
| Photo © Kathy Cadigan 2013 |
You can get the pattern on my website, on Ravelry, on Craftsy, and on Patternfish. These samples, along with many others will be on display in my booth at TNNA too.
Thanks are due to my photographer, Kathy Cadigan, and model Jessie Kwak. She's modeling the longer version, and that's me in the shorter one.
One quick note: This coming Friday, January 3, I'll be having my annual birthday sale. All my independently-published patterns will be 31% off for that day only. You can get the discount by shopping on Ravelry and entering the code "birthday" at checkout.
PATTERN INFO
Sizes & Finished Measurements
Pattern is designed to be worn with 1-2 in/2.5-5 cm of negative ease at the bust since the lace is very stretchy.
Bust Circumference: 28.75 (32.25, 35.75, 39.25, 43, 46.5, 50) in/73 (82, 91, 100, 109, 118, 127) cm
Long sample shown in size 32.25 in/82 cm with 1.75 in/4.5 cm of negative ease on model
Short sample shown in size 28.75 in/73 cm with 1.25 in/3 cm of negative ease on model
Yarn
LONG VERSION
575 (650, 760, 835, 975, 1055, 1135) yd/525 (595, 695, 765, 890, 965, 1040) m fingering weight yarn
Shown in Rowan Panama (55% Rayon, 33% Cotton, 12% Linen; 148 yd/135 m per 50g skein)
Color: #310 Aster; 4 (5, 6, 6, 7, 8, 8) skeins
SHORT VERSION
390 (440, 505, 550, 615, 665, 715) yd/355 (400, 460, 505, 565, 610, 670) m fingering weight yarn
Shown in Rowan Panama (55% Rayon, 33% Cotton, 12% Linen; 148 yd/135 m per 50g skein)
Color: #304 Orchid; 3 (3, 4, 4, 5, 5, 5) skeins
Gauge
Gauge measurement should be taken after blocking.
21 sts/31 rnds = 4 in/10 cm in lace pattern using larger needle
19 sts/32 rnds = 4 in/10 cm Garter stitch pattern using smaller needle
Needles & Notions
Needle Sizes are recommendations only. Always use needle size necessary to obtain gauge.
US #3/3.25mm double-point needles (used for i-cord straps)
US #5/3.75mm 24 in/60 cm circular needle
US #6/4.0mm 24 in/60 cm circular needle
size D crochet hook
tapestry needle
Skills
lace (charted and written instructions given), increase purl wise, single crochet, I cord
You may remember these bloomers as Miss Bloomers Bifurcated Ensemble, but I'm excited to re-introduce them with gorgeous new photos, extended sizes, and a new name! Meet Parisian Delight.
 |
| Photo © Kathy Cadigan 2013 |
I re-knit my sample in a currently-available yarn, Hazel Knits Entice, a merino/cashmere/nylon blend that is so perfectly luxurious. As fun and flirty as these little bloomers are, they're also incredibly comfortable.
 |
| Photo © Kathy Cadigan 2013 |
These are knit from the bottom-up with a sweet lace edging and eyelets for threading I-cord through and cinching just below the knee. The length is easy to modify since the legs are worked in a simple and clean pinstripe ribbing pattern. Just work them as long or short as you'd like!
 |
| Photo © Kathy Cadigan 2013 |
The waist is also cinched with a drawstring, and the seat is shaped using short rows for a perfect fit. Aside from the I-cord lacings, finishing is very minimal - no seams, just a bit of Kitchener stitch and a few ends to weave in.
 |
| Photo © Kathy Cadigan 2013 |
I find knitted pants to be hilarious and quite silly, but the more I wear them, the more I love them for practical purposes. My Kalaloch leggings are in regular circulation in my winter cycling wardrobe, and I have a silky pair of Zoe Beach Shorts that I lounge around the house in.
Parisian Delight would work well for fall and winter cycling too - the lace is high enough on the leg not to get caught in the spokes, and the waist drawstring could be double knotted for extra security. I think I'd make a pair out of something a little sturdier like Hazel Knits Artisan Sock if I wanted to add to the durability, but there's nothing quite like wearing cashmere on your bum.
 |
| Photo © Kathy Cadigan 2013 |
I want to give a big thank you to Jessie Kwak for help with wardrobe - she painted those shoes! She and her husband, Rob, also helped me procure that rad Torker bike for the photo shoot (not to mention she also modeled at this shoot and copy edited the pattern! I think her talents know no bounds.)
The model, Dianna Walla, was actually walking near the Ballard Locks in Seattle, but I couldn't help thinking she looked like she was taking a stroll in a Paris park. Thanks to Kathy Cadigan too for more beautiful photos!
The pattern is now available on my website, Ravelry, Craftsy, and Patternfish. If you have a yarn shop, you'll soon be able to get it in print too. Keep an eye on my Stitch Sprouts page or feel free to send me or Stitch Sprouts an email if you have questions.
PATTERN INFO
Finished Measurements
Hip Circumference:
33.25 (37, 40.5, 44.25, 48, 51.75, 55.5, 59) in/84.5 (94, 103, 112.5, 122, 131.5, 141, 150) cm
Intended to be worn with 1-2 in/2.5-5 cm of ease measured at high hip; shown in size 37 in/94 cm on model with 1 in/2.5 cm of ease
Yarn
905 (1110, 1420, 1725, 2145, 2565, 3080, 3505) yd/830 (1015, 1300, 1575, 1960, 2345, 2815, 3205) m fingering weight yarn
Shown in Hazel Knits Entice MCN (70% Merino, 20% Cashmere, 10% Nylon; 400yd/366m per 115g skein)
Color: Frost; 3 (3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9) skeins
Gauge
Gauge measurement should be taken after blocking.
26 sts/33 rows = 4 in/10 cm in Stockinette Stitch
Needles and Notions
Adjust needle size if necessary to obtain correct gauge.
US #3/3.25 mm 16 in/40 cm circular needle
US #3/3.25 mm double pointed needles
US #4/3.5 mm 16 in/40 cm circular needle
US #4/3.5 mm 32 in/80 cm circular needle
place markers
tapestry needle
Skills
working lace from charted and/or written instructions, working in the round, short row shaping
The snow has melted here in the Cowichan Valley, and we had a few days that felt almost like spring. These shaggy visitors showed up right outside our window yesterday, and I was amazingly able to get some cute shots of them!
They didn't seem to quite understand the concept of the window - I felt like they were looking right at me, but they didn't appear to care.
We're expecting more snow tomorrow, so I'm glad they have those furry coats to keep them warm. I'm always happy to get to wear more wool!
Sometimes a knitter just wants a project that turns out dramatic and gorgeous, but is really fast to make. Meet Sentiment:
 |
| Photo © Kathy Cadigan 2013 |
This crescent-shaped shawl is knit up in Malabrigo Rasta in the intensely saturated color, Sunset. It's just semi-solid enough to make each huge stitch pop next to its neighbor, and the gauge (2 stitches to the inch) makes for a quick and satisfying knit.
 |
| Photo © Kathy Cadigan 2013 |
To get that lovely crescent shape, the lace edging is worked first, followed by a series of short rows in easy Stockinette. Finish it off with just a couple rows of Garter stitch and you have a stunning lace-edged shawl using just over 300 yards of yarn.
 |
| Photo © Kathy Cadigan 2013 |
It's been a few years since I designed a super bulky shawl, but Pembroke was such fun that I decided I needed another one in the same spirit. Sentiment takes a popular shawl shape - the short-row shaped crescent - and gives it oversized drama in the same way that Pembroke did for the classic lace triangle. This time I wanted to really celebrate the large stitches and breathtaking yarn by showing them off with a big swath of Stockinette too.
 |
| Photo © Kathy Cadigan 2013 |
The easy lace and heavy yarn makes this such a quick project that it’s perfect for that last-minute gift-knitting. Or even better, for a special present just for you (as a reward for all that gift-knitting of course!) You can get the pattern right here on my website, on Ravelry, Patternfish, Craftsy, or if you're a yarn shop, in print through Stitch Sprouts.
I want to say a huge thank you to Kathy Cadigan, who took these gorgeous photos, and to designer Diana Walla for modeling. (I just finished knitter her wonderful pullover design, Skydottir.)
PATTERN INFO
Finished Measurements
Wingspan: 48 in/122 cm
Depth at Center: 21 in/53.5 cm
Yarn
320 yd/295 m super bulky weight yarn
Shown in Malabrigo Rasta (100% Merino; 90 yd/82 m per 150g skein)
Color: Sunset; 4 skeins
Gauge
Gauge measurement should be taken after blocking.
8 sts/13 rows = 4 in/10 cm in Stockinette stitch
Needles and Notions
Adjust needle size if necessary to obtain correct gauge.
US #15/10 mm needle
tapestry needle
blocking pins
blocking wires (optional)
Skills
working lace from charted and/or written instructions
short row shaping
The latest issue of Twist Collective is live and in it you can find more evidence of my obsession with surface design on knitted fabrics: Joist - pullovers designed for men and women.
 |
| Photo © Jane Heller 2013 |
I spend a lot of time swatching different textures and color patterns, and I get pretty excited working on fabric that's particularly sculptural. My first swatches for Joist were classic twisted-stitch lattice patterns straight out of Barbara Walker. They weren't substantial enough for my liking, though, so I tried out a few beefier cable patterns, but I still wasn't satisfied. I liked how the twisted-stitch lattice patterns were worked without purling - they relied on the twisting and direction of the stitches rather than on negative space created by purling. So I decided to give cabling a try with more stitches and without any purling. It took me quite a few tries to get the cables to be just the right volume, with deep enough valleys in between the cables, but once I had that swatch, I was in love. Not only do the cables have a strong, geometric directionality, but the stockinette stitch that forms the background also points one way, then the other, which is one of those lovely little things you have to get close up to notice.
 |
| Photo © Jane Heller 2013 |
My original plan for Joist was to make a men's pullover. I always want to add to the current library of men's patterns that men hopefully want to knit for themselves. The fabric I ended up with is quite thick due to the heavy cabling, and worked up in a woolen spun yarn like Brooklyn Tweed Shelter, it's especially insulating. Not only do the cables create lots of places for warm air to get trapped next to the body, but the yarn itself also has lots of little air pockets. The woolen spun nature of the yarn is also helpful for keeping the sweater to a manageable weight. All that thick fabric can make a pretty heavy sweater and I like the relative lightness of the Shelter. It makes for a great outdoorsy sweater that looks classic, but is extra cozy and warm.
What usually happens as I work on men's sweaters, though, is that I end up wanting one for myself. I love to wear my sample of Traverse and it has a fantastic slouchy boyfriend sweater fit that goes really well with my usual leggings, short skirt, and clompy boots look. But with Joist, I wanted a version designed to be specifically flattering to women too.
 |
| Photo © Jane Heller 2013 |
Both versions include waist shaping, but the men's is simple reverse A-line shaping, while the women's has hourglass-style shaping. Since the fabric is fairly thick, it's helpful to have this shaping for a well-fitting sweater.
Aside from the fantastic cabled lattice stitch pattern, the sweaters have lots of other special design features. The ribbing at the cuffs and hem looks like regular two-by-two rib, but it includes slipped stitches that help the ribs to stand out, making them conform more closely to the look of the cables. The yoke is worked in an Elizabeth Zimmermann-inspired seamless construction. The armholes and sleeve caps have the shape of set-in sleeves, but end in saddle shoulders that continue the established cable pattern and create a comfortable shoulder and sleeve cap section. Shaping details prevent the sharp corner look that saddle shoulder construction can sometimes have.
 |
| Photo © Jane Heller 2013 |
The collar is worked in a pretty unique way as well. The construction was inspired by the classic Cowichan-style collars that are usually done at a huge gauge in garter stitch. I adapted that style to work with ribbing to mirror the cuffs and hem. It's quite magical and I hope you'll enjoy it as much as I did.
Thanks to the Twist Collective team for their beautiful styling and photography!
Twist Collective Winter 2013
See the patterns in Twist Collective
See the patterns on Ravelry
Pattern Info
MEN'S VERSION
Finished Measurements
Chest: 38 (42, 44 3⁄4, 48, 50 3⁄4, 54, 56 3⁄4)” / 96.5 (106.5, 113.5, 122, 129, 137, 144) cm
Intended to be worn with 3–4” / 7.5–10 cm ease.
Yarn
1800 (1990, 2120, 2274, 2404, 2558, 2688) yd/ 1265 (1400, 1505, 1630, 1735, 1840, 1965) m worsted weight yarn
Shown in Brooklyn Tweed Shelter (100% Wool, 140 yd/128 m per 50g skein)
Color: #26 Stormcloud; 13 (15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20) skeins
Gauge
29 sts and 27 rnds = 4” / 10 cm over chart pattern using larger needle after blocking
Needles and Notions
Size 6 US / 4 mm circular needle 32” / 80 cm long
Size 6 US / 4 mm needles in preferred style for small circumference knitting in the round
Size 9 US / 5.5 mm circular needle 32” / 80 cm long
Size 9 US / 5.5 mm needles in preferred style for small circumference knitting in the round
Adjust needle size if necessary to obtain correct gauge.
stitch markers
waste yarn
tapestry needle
cable needle
Skills
working in the round
cabling
shaping in pattern
picking up stitches
grafting using Kitchener stitch
WOMEN'S VERSION
Finished Measurements
Bust: 33 (36 1⁄2, 39 1⁄4, 42 1⁄2, 45 1⁄4, 48, 51 1⁄4)” / 84 (92.5, 99.5, 108, 115, 122, 130) cm
Intended to be worn with 3–4” / 7.5–10 cm ease.
Yarn
1385 (1530, 1645, 1780, 1895, 2010, 2145) yd/ 1265 (1400, 1505, 1630, 1735, 1840, 1965) m worsted weight yarn
Shown in Brooklyn Tweed Shelter (100% Wool, 140 yd/128 m per 50g skein)
Color: #09 Camper; 10 (11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16) skeins
Gauge
29 sts and 27 rnds = 4” / 10 cm over chart pattern using larger needle after blocking
Needles and Notions
Size 6 US / 4 mm circular needle 32” / 80 cm long
Size 6 US / 4 mm needles in preferred style for small circumference knitting in the round
Size 9 US / 5.5 mm circular needle 32” / 80 cm long
Size 9 US / 5.5 mm needles in preferred style for small circumference knitting in the round
Adjust needle size if necessary to obtain correct gauge.
stitch markers
waste yarn
tapestry needle
cable needle
Skills
working in the round
cabling
shaping in pattern
picking up stitches
grafting using Kitchener stitch
I get pretty attached to all of my designs by the time publication rolls around, but I have to say, I feel especially proud of this one. Partly that's because I worked hard to make it just right (and frogged oh-so-many times), but also because of the publication venue. It's so exciting for me to be included in Brooklyn Tweed's Wool People Series.
 |
| Photo © Brooklyn Tweed/Jared Flood 2013 |
Tree Rings starts with Elizabeth Zimmermann's pi shawl concept, but takes in a slightly different direction than usual. While most pi shawls employ lace patterns, I wanted something that would be rich in surface texture and show directional movement. The edging has some lace included (my nod to tradition), but it's mostly intended to mirror the angular shapes in the rest of the piece. A softer, somewhat floral motif is included in the center to add a gentler mood.
 |
| Photo © Brooklyn Tweed/Jared Flood 2013 |
|
I don't usually focus very much on pattern names, but I love what the Brooklyn Tweed team decided to call the pattern. Tree Rings evokes just the right feeling of nature combined with geometry. Thanks to whoever thought of such a perfect name!
 |
| Photo © Brooklyn Tweed/Jared Flood 2013 |
You can find Tree Rings and a dozen other incredible patterns from Wool People 6 over on the Brooklyn Tweed website:
I can't remember when I first heard that Tolt Yarn and Wool was coming, but it seems like it was a whisper that's just gotten louder and clearer until finally yesterday the shop opened to the expected very warm welcome.
The shop is a knitter's dream, and I'm thrilled to get to be a part of it. Last summer Anna, the genius behind the shop, asked me to contribute a set of patterns inspired by the history and natural beauty of the area around Carnation.
 |
Photo © Anna Dianich 2013
We wanted the designs to be particularly northwest-y, so Anna suggested I use Imperial Yarns Columbia and Spincycle Yarns 100% BFL Worsted. I love the combination of the rustic, tweedy Columbia with the handspun, saturated Spincycle BFL.
|
 |
| Photo © Anna Dianich 2013 |
Since the designs are the first (of hopefully many!) Tolt shop patterns, I wanted them to be approachable for a variety of knitters. The color work is straight-forward, and several of my testers who had never tried stranded color work before appreciated the simplicity of the color patterns to help them learn how. (Check out this great recent blog entry by Dianna Walla on color dominance for more thoughts on stranded color work.)
 |
| Photo © Anna Dianich 2013 |
|
The patterns are both designed to work equally well for men and women, and the hat can be worn in a variety of ways - fold the brim up for a beanie look, or leave it long to get some slouch.
 |
| Photo © Anna Dianich 2013 |
|
|
Not only is the triangles motif great as a basic color work pattern, but it's actually an interpretation of a couple of water symbols - one a W-like figure, and the other a simple triangle. (Check out the Pinterest board Anna and I worked on for more of our inspiration.) Since the Tolt River has always been a vital part of life for the people who have lived in this part of Washington, it was natural for me to incorporate something that suggested waves and water in patterns called Tolt. The clean geometry of the motifs is also a nod to the shapes that were traditionally woven into blankets in this region.
|
 |
| Photo © Anna Dianich 2013 |
|
The patterns are sold as a set and I strongly suggest heading down to Carnation so you can pick them up along with the yarn. Anna has two color combinations available - the "Devilish Grin" and "Desert Landscape" version shown in the photos, or a "Greed" (a brilliant gold) and "Charcoal" set.
If you can't make it to Carnation, you can also pick the patterns up on Ravelry. Just purchase either one to get both patterns. If you're curious how they knit up in other colors, check out the projects on Ravelry. (Thanks so much to my wonderful pattern testers!)
Photo © Anna Dianich 2013
Pattern Info
The Tolt Hat and Mitts are sold as a pair. You’ll get both patterns when you buy either one for $8.
The patterns are available in digital form via my website and Ravelry, as well as in print in the brick-and-mortar shop, Tolt Yarn and Wool in Carnation, Washington, along with the yarn to knit them.
TOLT HAT
Finished Measurements
Adult Sizes S (M, L); shown in size M
Brim Circumference: 18 (20, 22) in / 46 (51, 56) cm
Yarn
Main Color
Approximately 100 (110, 120) yd / 82 (92, 100) m worsted weight yarn
Shown in Imperial Yarn Columbia (100% Wool, 220 yd / 201 m per 113g skein) Color: #119 Desert Landscape; 1 skein
Contrast Color
Approximately 50 (55, 60) yd / 45 (50, 55) m worsted weight yarn
Shown in Spincycle Yarns BFL Worsted (100% Wool, 120 yd / 110 m) Color: Devilish Grin; 1 skein
Gauge
18 sts / 26 rnds = 4 in / 10 cm in plain Stockinette stitch with Size B
20 sts / 26 rnds = 4 in / 10 cm in color work stitch pattern with Size B needles
16 sts / 24 rnds = 4 in / 10 cm in stretched 2 x 2 Rib pattern using Size A needles
Needles and Notions
Needle sizes are recommendations only; always use needle size necessary to achieve given gauge.
Needle A
US #6 / 4.00 mm 16 in / 40 cm circular needle
Needle B
US #8 / 5 mm 16 in / 40 cm circular needle
Needle C
US #8 / 5 mm set double pointed needles, 32 in / 80 cm circular needle for magic loop method, or 2 circular needles; use preferred small- circumference method.
Stitch markers
tapestry needle
Skills
working in the round, ribbing, stranded color work, decreasing including ssk, K2tog, and centered double decrease
TOLT MITTS
Finished Measurements
Adult Sizes XS (S, M, L); shown in size S
Hand Circumference: 6.5 (7.25, 8, 9.5) in / 16.5 (18.5, 20.5, 24) cm
Yarn
Main Color
Approximately 110 (120, 135, 160) yd / 100 (110, 120, 145) m worsted weight yarn
Shown in Imperial Yarn Columbia (100% Wool, 220 yd / 201 m per 113g skein). Color: #119 Desert Landscape; 1 skein.
Contrast Color
Approximately 45 (50, 55, 65) yd / 40 (45, 50, 60)m worsted weight yarn
Shown in Spincycle Yarns BFL Worsted (100% Wool, 120 yd / 110 m). Color: Devilish Grin; 1 skein.
Gauge
18 sts / 26 rnds = 4 in / 10 cm in plain Stockinette stitch with Size B
20 sts / 26 rnds = 4 in / 10 cm in color work stitch pattern with Size B needles
16 sts / 24 rnds = 4 in / 10 cm in stretched 2 x 2 Rib pattern using Size A needles
Needles and Notions
Needle sizes are recommendations only; always use needle size necessary to achieve given gauge.
Needle A
US #6 / 4.00 mm set double pointed needles, 32 in / 80 cm circular needle for magic loop method, or 2 circular needles; use preferred small- circumference method.
Needle B
US #8 / 5 mm set double pointed needles, 32 in / 80 cm circular needle for magic loop method, or 2 circular needles; use preferred small- circumference method.
Waste yarn
place markers
tapestry needle
Skills
working in the round, ribbing, stranded color work, shaping using increases and decreases
This past month has been pretty intensely packed. Welcoming my TRIFECTA crew was refreshing and fun, and it kicked off a whole month of fiber-y craziness. The following weekend I hosted a tiny retreat, teaching and learning about the Cowichan Valley and the Coast Salish knitting tradition. Then I took part in the Cowichan Fleece and Fibre Fair, and then traveled to Seattle to teach at Knit Fit and do a fairly massive photo shoot.
I'm finally catching my breath and am excited for lots of amazing things to come. In the meantime, I'd like to share our Cowichan weekend in pictures. Almost all these photos were taken by the incredible Kathy Cadigan. You can find even more pictures and info about the weekend on the Tolt Yarn and Wool blog.
We got to see and try on so many sweaters.
 |
Anna trying on a beautiful sweater with pockets! She made that pom pom hat too.
Photo © Kathy Cadigan 2013 |
 |
This is a vintage genuine Cowichan sweater knit for Leola Witt-McNie of Leola's Studio.
Photo © Kathy Cadigan 2013 |
 |
I love Anna's new vest! If you stop by her shop, you may get to see it in person.
Photo © Kathy Cadigan 2013 |
 |
A selection of Cowichan and Cowichan-inspired sweater we saw at the Duncan Farmer's Market. There were lots more!
Photo © Kathy Cadigan 2013 |
Having so many sweaters around allowed us to study them pretty intensely.
 |
See how different the inside of the color work is from Fair Isle? They use a technique that basically catches the float every stitch. We were pretty fascinated by this.
Photo © Kathy Cadigan 2013 |
We had a great time at the Duncan Farmer's Market.
 |
| Photo © Kathy Cadigan 2013 |
And we met a lot of adorable animals at The Happy Goat Farm.
|
All the animals wanted to say hello! (I regularly eat eggs that those chickens lay.)
Photo © Kathy Cadigan 2013 |
 |
| Photo © Kathy Cadigan 2013 |
Last weekend when I went down to Seattle for Knit Fit, I got to visit Anna's new yarn shop before it opened up. I have to say that Tolt Yarn and Wool is completely my dream yarn shop. The space is open and rustic and perfect, and her yarn selection has just the right mix of woolly wools and luxury fibres.
I'm honored to have worked with the shop to create two new patterns that celebrate their grand opening, which is happening on Saturday, November 9, 2013! You can get a sneak peak at the Tolt Hat and Mitts on Ravelry before they go on sale tomorrow. If you're a knitter within driving distance of Carnation, Washington, you need to be at their shop tomorrow to see what they've been working so hard on! You'll even be able to get kits that include the new patterns and the Spincycle and Imperial yarn to knit them up.
Happy fall!
 |
Tolt Hat and Mitts
Photo © Anna Dianich 2013 |
If you've looked at my website very closely, you may have noticed this logo in a few places:
Today I'm going to share what that logo means.
Last year at about this time, Jessie Kwak, Nalisha Rangel, and I came together for a fun weekend that turned into something much more meaningful. We've been friends for years, but after getting into discussion surrounding the independent creative work that we were all doing, we formed TRIFECTA, a tiny organization that includes just the three of us. The purpose of TRIFECTA is to provide moral support, accountability, brainstorming, advice, and a space for celebration of successes.
 |
| Nalisha Rangel, me, and Jessie Kwak, October 2012 |
That weekend we discussed our current work and our goals for the future. We also made a plan that every Monday we would check in via our TRIFECTA Google Group, sharing that week's accomplishments, goals, and sometimes, pleas for help.
That Weekly Check-in has happened every week without fail for a year, and this weekend was our second annual Cowichan Bay TRIFECTA Business and Wine Retreat. Though we talk every week, Jessie and Nalisha live in Seattle, so it was fantastic to have them up for a relaxing and inspiring visit.
 |
| Me, Jessie, and Nalisha, October 2013 |
Having this supportive community has been a huge boon to my work and I feel incredibly fortunate to be a part of this small network. You know about my work, so let me share a bit about Jessie and Nalisha.
Jessie is a freelance writer who contributes articles to magazines and blogs, writes product copy, and provides all sorts of other professional writing and editing services. Her own blog focuses on bike adventures and crafting, and can be found at Bicitoro.com. She and I work together frequently because not only is she a writer and editor, she's a knitter too, so she does copy editing and product descriptions for my patterns.
Nalisha creates whimsical, wearable art like tee shirts, baby clothes, and tote bags, as well as paintings, tattoo designs, and flow arts accessories. She painted the shirt I'm wearing above - it's genius and I'll show you a better picture below. And she knitted that lush cowl she's wearing too!
They rode up from Seattle, so our tiny apartment was full of bicycles while we worked on reviewing last year's goals and setting new ones for the coming months. (That exercise ball just rolled around the room when somebody wasn't sitting, stretching, or bouncing on it.)
The weather was incredible this weekend - sunshine and perfect, fresh fall air - so we also took time out to ride around to a couple of local wineries.
Cherry Point Winery had excellent and really unique wines, including a blackberry dessert wine made from berries picked right in the neighborhood and purchased from the locals.
Damali Lavendar Farm and Winery had a sweet labyrinth that we walked together.
We also ate really delicious food.
The whole weekend made me so appreciative of this group, and got me feeling inspired for the year to come.
Oh, and here's a better image of the tank I'm wearing above:
 |
| Tank design by Nalisha Rangel, skirt by Jessie Kwak |
If you're from Seattle, you might get the reference, but just in case you don't: The South Lake Union Transit system is also known as the SLUT, and not only are the tracks notorious for causing bike wipe-outs, but the last time I was in Seattle, I personally went down pretty much just like this. It was dark and raining, and from now on, I'll be riding on the sidewalks in South Lake Union.
Here's to another year of TRIFECTA creativity and networking! Can't wait to see where we're at in 2014.
Find out more about Jessie's work on her website.
See Nalisha's art and check out her shop.
|
|
|
