Colorwork

What exactly is color work? Multi-colored knitting that’s done by carrying two or more colors at a time across a row. I love colorwork, it is one of my favorite things to knit. I feel it goes faster than other projects, maybe because you are watching a picture and pattern come to life! I love coming up with color combos and putting them into order. It truly is a work of art! It is also much easier than it looks, too! The first time I ever practiced colorwork, I did it in the car on a small road trip. The FO was a just a small fair isle mug cozy, it only took me a few hours or so to do. It was a free beginners pattern, and you can really see your tension on. After that, I was hooked and moved on to other projects, hats, cowls, etc. 

Don't let the look intimidate you! Download that mug cozy today, and give it a try! When you're done with that, here are some of my favorite colorwork patterns to do next! Enjoy! 

The Kodikas Shawl by Boyland Knitworks knit out of Madelinetosh DK

Prism Hat by Tin Can Knits in Malabrigo Rios

TPHPE- The Prettiest Hot Pad Ever

Varia Hat knit out of Malabrigo Worsted

Knit and crochet mistakes: you aren't alone.

Last week, I wrote about starting a crochet summer pattern for a beach cover up. It was going so smoothly and then…(you've all been there) I got stuck. I tried talking to the pattern: "what are you talking about?!" but it didn't answer back. I unraveled and started the section over then over again. After expressing my frustrations to my knitter friend, she tells me "keep frogging or move on to something else". She then explained to me what frogging means. In knitting and crocheting, a frog says "rip it rip it" referring to undoing rows of work due to errors. So I frogged some more but it still didn't look right. I felt like a failure. I consider myself an advanced crocheter, so why couldn't I make this work?
I turned to the pattern on Ravelry.com and realized I wasn't alone. There were other crocheters out there showing the same frustrations. Some got through it, some decided to iron out the errors on their own and some (including me) gave up and moved on to something else. It feels good to let go!
I found this similar pattern http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/summer-beach-cover-up and am moving along nicely with it. Lesson learned: if you get the pattern from Ravelry, look at the project notes from fellow fiber friends if they are available. There are great tips and wonderful pictures too.
Interested in learning more about this feature on Ravelry and how to take advantage of everything else it has to offer? Sign up for our Ravelry 101 class at Yarns By Design on February 23, 2016 from 5:30-7pm. http://yarnsbydesignpa.com/social/classes.html

New pattern + same yarn= happy crocheter!

Warmly, 

YBD

It's Never Too Early!

It's still cold outside but that doesn't mean it's too soon to work on warm weather projects. I've just started crocheting this beach cover up and it's already putting visions in my head of sunshine, sand and waves! http://www.redheart.com/free-patterns/south-beach-cover (Also available on Ravelry).

I was a little hesitant to put aside my chunky and wool yarns for cotton but this Cascade Yarns "Sunseeker" made the switch easy. It has a perfect amount of metallic to catch the sunlight and make any project glisten. Yarns By Design has it available in several summer shades. Stay tuned for more updates and ideas on warm weather projects!

Look out, Summer- this project has sparkle!

Our Sunseeker by Cascade Yarns love the sunshine!

Warmly, 

Yarns By Design

Tolt Folded Bag

by Veronika Jobe


© yarns by design

The beauty of these bags is that you only need to knit a rectangle. The magic of the folding and seaming is what creates the shape! We chose to knit these bags out of a worsted weight linen and cotton blend (garter version), Schulana Kilino using 3 balls, and an aran weight linen yarn (stockinette version), Quince and Co Kestrel using 4 skeins. Have fun knitting these bags in any size and fiber for different options!


© schulana kilino


© quince and co kestrel

FREE pattern

The yarn and pattern support are available at the Yarns By Design boutique.

Tee Cakes by HiKoo

HiKoo’s newest addition, Tee Cakes, is constructed using strips of re-purposed tee shirts. Colorful, fun, funky, unique … these are all words that describe this new arrival. Tee Cakes lends itself to knitting and crochet, and features 75 yards per cake. There are between 225 and 300 grams per cake, depending on the width of the strips. Each cake is as individual as the t-shirt it was made from. Colorways will always fluctuate, due to the materials used. Machine washable in warm water. Dry flat.


© Yarns By Design

Tee Cakes are the perfect fiber to either knit or crochet a bath mat. Stop by the Yarns By Boutique today to pick out your Tee Cake colors and receive this FREE pattern.


© Yarns By Design

Rylie by HiKoo

Rylie by Hikoo is a lightweight luxury yarn. Lusciously soft baby alpaca is enriched with the elegant drape and gleam of mulberry silk and the rustic tactile appeal of linen. Dyed in soft pastels, beachy brights and glowing neutrals, Rylie is ravishing. Yarns By Design has a large selection of colors to choose from.


© Yarns By Design

• HiKoo®
• 50% Baby Alpaca, 25% Mulberry Silk, 25% Linen
• 274 yards per 100 gram hank
• US 3-4 needles
• 6 sts per inch

We at Yarns By Design were excited when we came across this FREE pattern by Kris Basta. The Definitely Diagonal Scarf is the perfect project to knit with the new Rylie fiber. This is a 15 row pattern repeat that works up quickly on size 10 needles. And, as we suspected, it turned out lovely and perfect!


© Yarns By Design

"Mystery Achieved" Pullover

Ladies' "Mystery Achieved" Knitting Pattern by Esther Yun-Mancini

Sizes: Small (Medium, Large, X-Large)
Knitted Measurements: Bust 36½ (40½, 44, 48)"/ 92.5 (103, 112, 122) cm
Skill level: Intermediate
Craft: Knitting
Techniques: long tail cast on, knit two together (k2tog), purl two together (p2tog), yarn over increase (yo), knit stitch
Project: Summer Tops
Yarn Weight: 16-20, Medium, Worsted, Afghan, Aran
Needle Size: Needle Size 8 / 5.00 mm

We knit our first sample with Cascade Yarns Luna Paints. This lovely, variegated super soft 100% Peruvian cotton yarn from Cascade Yarns consists of a soft lofty strand of cotton plied together with a fine cotton strand to create a sturdy bumpy textured yarn that will add interest to simple stitches. This is a lovely washable cotton. From brights to pastels the colors that this yarn comes in are sure to suit your every need.


© Yarns By Design

We loved this project so much, we had to make another. This sample was knit with Berroco's Weekend DK. Made from the same machine washable blend as Weekend and Weekend Chunky, this lighter version offers the same softness in a finer gauge. Weekend DK™ is the perfect yarn for any laid back knitting project. A soft, comfortable machine washable blend, this yarn is uncomplicated from start to finish.


© Yarns By Design

Summertime Drop Stitch Cowl

The staff at Yarns By Design enjoys making fun cowl projects, no matter what season it is. We wanted to try something new with one of our more favorite fibers, Habu Textiles Cotton Gima. The finished project looks great and will accessorize any outfit this summer.

From Habu Textiles:
”This is a cotton, which feels like paper. “Gima” literally means “fake linen” in Japanese. It feels like linen paper if you do not know it! Great to knit in single. Beautiful warp & weft yarn for weavers also. Looks beautiful in simple stockinette, but also great in seed stitch or just garter (very three dimensional) It may feel stiff in the beginning, but will soften greatly.”

Papery but very soft. Could be used with a wide range of needle sizes. Hand wash or dry clean only.

The Summertime Drop Stitch Cowl is a FREE pattern when you purchase Cotton Gima. We have a nice selection of colors to choose from.


© Yarns By Design

Kavo by Shibui Knits

Kavo: Originating from cavo n. Italian for rope or cable, adj. Hollow. An unusual combination of strength and elegance. With a strong 2-ply cotton core and a decadent silk wrap, Kavo creates incredible knits with exceptional drape and a smooth, luxurious hand. The slight variation in diameter gives this DK weight yarn an organic feel. Intended to be knit on a range of needle sizes, Kavo’s fabric is open and airy, yet substantial enough to hold structured silhouettes. The silk wrap adds a subtle touch of sheen, making it a perfect choice for summer wear.

85% cotton, 15% silk, 224 yds / 205 m, dk weight, 50 g skein

Below are two patterns we will be working our Kavo samples in:

K. 1 by Lidia Tsymbal
This top is knit using 1 strand of Kavo on a US size 5 (3.75 mm) 36” circular needle. You will need:

3 (3, 3, 4) skeins of Color A
2 (2, 2, 2) skeins of Color B
Shown in Ash (A) & Graphite

K. 2 by Kristin Ford
This scarf is knit using 1 strand of Kavo on US size 5 (3.75 mm) needles. You will need:

1 skein Color A
1 skein Color B
1 skein Color C
1 skein Color D
Shown in Ash (A), Graphite (B), Poppy (C) & Tar (D)

This pattern is free with the purchase of yarn at Yarns By Design!

SimpliWorsted by HiKoo

© Skacel Knitting

SimpliWorsted
55% Merino Superwash 28% Acrylic 17% Nylon
SimpliWorsted by HiKoo is a value yarn that is an excellent choice for afghans, children's wear, and anything else that get's daily use. This machine washable wool blend feels like butter in your hands while knitting, but is a true "work horse" of a yarn. Simpliworsted is a perfect all around worsted weight yarn. A Superwash Merino Blend in vibrant colors! Feels like butter!

Details:
Weight: 100 gram skein
Approx: 140 yards
Needle Size: US 10/6 mm
Gauge: 4 sts per inch

Care:
Machine washable

Pattern Support:

© Michelle Hunter
Winter Buzz
Designed by Michelle Hunter
The FREE honeycomb pattern makes for a quick and easy knit in these toasty warm mittens. All techniques are supported with FREE online video tutorials. Sample was knit with Simpliworsted by HiKoo for a soft and washable mitten.

Progressive Needles Knit Along with Knit Purl Hunter, sponsored by Skacel. KAL begins January 5th at knitpurlhunter.com


© Michelle Hunter
Independence Pillow
Designed by Michelle Hunter
The FREE Independence Pillow creates a beautiful home accessory while learning to knit cables without a cable needle. This project's video tutorials are perfect for honing your finishing skills.


© Michelle Hunter
Building Blocks Afghan
Designed by Michelle Hunter
Work through the major knitting skills while creating 12 lovely squares. Master each technique before moving to a more advanced concept in a carefully designed sequence. All techniques are supported with FREE online video instruction for help outside of the class. Gain an abundance of knitting know-how along with 12 blocks to assemble into a sampler afghan.

Join the Building Blocks Club:
12 Sessions $300/year or $30/month
Every 4th Friday of the month from 5:30-7:00pm
Instructor: Edye

Details:
- Includes cost of the book and yarn for all 12 squares.
- Please come in to choose your yarn two weeks prior to the start of the first class so yarn can be selected.
- Pre-registration is required, call today (412) 794-8332!

Acadia and Savannah by The Fibre Co.

Acadia is an absolutely beautiful, completely original and custom designed 2-ply yarn with a rustic look and soft hand. A subtle tweed effect created by the silk noil is combined with a heathered base and then overdyed in the duotones The Fibre Co. are known for, creating incredible depth of color. We have chosen two free patterns that will show off these wonderful fibers while working on an original design. Stop by the Yarns By Design boutique to choose from our wonderful selection of colors.

Savannah is a beautiful and rustic spun 2-ply yarn with a crisp yet soft hand. The unique blend of fibers are spun and then kettle dyed, and the different way the fibers absorb the dye creates a beautiful depth of color with subtle heathered tones. Additionally, Savannah is spun and dyed in the U.S.A., and we are proud to play a small role in supporting local textile mills here in Pennsylvania.

Featuring:
Ritalin Cowl by Shelley L Brander

Shelley designed this Ritalin Cowl because her mother insisted she was hyperactive. It’s perfect for ADD knitters. Just when you get tired of a stitch, or a color, wheeeee here comes a new one! Shelley also wanted to show off the amazing range of colors in Acadia from the Fiber Company.


© Yarns By Design


© Shelley @ Loops Yarn Blog

Featuring:
Springtime Bandit by Kate Gagnon Osborn

A combination of two of Kate's favorite things. Traditionally-inspired shapes and techniques with a modern twist, and triangular neckwear with limitless styling possibilities, the leaf motifs in the body of Springtime Bandit evolve into lacy chevrons and the end result is a warm, soft accessory. Designed to show off the slubby texture and next-to-skin softness of this fiber, it’s the thing to reach for when the weather turns cool.


© Kelbourne Woolens + Amanda Stevenson Lupke

Habu Textiles Cotton Gima Print

Linen Top by Kat Coyle

This free pattern is a good summer knitting project (no heavy wool here) and a good summer top to wear. The work is done from side to side and stretches open quite a bit after blocking.


© GanomyLove

The suggested fiber to knit this airy summer top with is Cotton Gima Print by Habu Textiles. This is a "printed" cotton Gima. Gima means "fake linen" in Japanese. It feels like linen, and softens up greatly as soon as you handle or wash it. Only 3-4 balls of this yarn will make a whole garment. Yarns By Design has a selection of color options to choose from, see below of a few of our favorites.


© YBDoakmont

Louet Euroflax Linen

Grey Loop by Helen G

This free pattern is a simple yet pleasing oversized cowl that can be worn looped loosely or wrapped an extra time for more warmth.


© scratchnsniff

Euroflax Linen is the perfect fiber to knit this cowl in. Louet's long line linen yarn is made out of flax-fiber, which is custom wet spun for Louet North America. The factory where the yarn is spun has been in operation for several generations and they are capable of very high quality, fine yarn production including double-boiling the yarn to give a very soft and exceptional quality. Louet also steam process the yarn to ensure maximum softness. This fiber is both machine washable and dry.

At the YBD boutique we have a variety of subtle colors to choose from. Here is a small sampling of our favorites.

Cascade Ultra Pima Hand Paints

Gemini by Jane Richmond

This free pattern is knit using a cotton linen blend at a loose gauge. The result is an elastic fabric that works up quickly and fits beautifully. The top half of the yoke features a lace panel covering the shoulders and back.

Named after the duality of the Gemini, this pullover can be worn with the lace to the back for a more casual look or with the lace facing forward for a dressier look.


© Jane Richmond

Cascade's Ultra Pima Paints would be perfect to knit with for this design. A silky soft cotton yarn that comes in a wide array of brilliant, hand painted colors. Ultra Pima Paints has great yardage, 220yds! It is also easy to care for; you can machine wash it in cool water and tumble it dry on low!

At the YBD boutique we have a large selection of beautiful colors to choose from. Below displays a few of our favorites.

Rowan Purelife Revive

The Age of Brass and Steam Kerchief by Orange Flower

A unisex triangular scarf/kerchief knitted in DK weight yarn.

The shawl is approx. 53 inches in width and 15” from center back to center point, when blocked aggressively. A single skein of DK weight yarn will yield a kerchief size.

This free pattern could easily be made with fingering to worsted weight yarn. By simply adding more repeats of the stockinette and garter ribbed eyelet sections, you can make a kerchief or shawl as large as you wish. Note that yardage requirements will vary with different yarn weights.


© Mustavaris

Yarns By Design has selected to knit this project with Purelife Revive by Rowan. Purelife revive has a wonderful tweed effect, fully recycled summer yarn made from used garments which have been selected according to the silk, cotton and viscose content. It has a beautiful rusticity. The recycled fibers are then carded to make regenerated fibre, which is spun into this beautiful, high quality yarn. This process gives life to new hand knitting designs.

Puerperium Babe Cardigan

The Puerperium Cardigan by Kelly Brooker

Puerperium is a very simply styled cardy, designed to be easy for new parents to dress their babe in the puerperium period (6 weeks post birth).

The pattern is top-down seamless in construction, and offers a wonderful blank canvas should one decide to embellish. Pattern has instructions for straight knit sleeves, and tailored tapered sleeves.


© cecie

This free version is written for 8ply/DK weight yarn, and to fit a newborn babe, approximately 7-9lb in weight, with an approximate chest circumference of 37.5cm.

We recommend knitting this cardigan in either Rowan's Purelife Organic Cotton, Stylecraft Wondersoft Pearl DK or Cascade's Baby Cherub. All of these fibers are available at the boutique and in a soft palette of colors to wrap your babe in.