Free Pattern Friday: Stratus Wrap by Alexandra Tavel

(Photo: Two of Wands)

The Stratus Wrap by Andrea Tavel just popped up on Ravelry and, can I just say, this has my name written all. over. it.  Gorgeous neutrals, tassels, stripes – it’s all fantastic!  Alexandra indicates that the design is inspired by “low-hanging, multi-layered stratus clouds that blanket the earth in grey fog”. Cozy and warm, this is a shawl / blanket combo if ever there was one. Stratus is an easy pattern requiring basic skills and is bound to knit up quickly as it calls for worsted / aran weight yarn on 8 mm (US 11) needles.  Now to decide on the yarn…

(Photo: Two of Wands)

–  Melissa

Free pattern Friday: Kirkendall and Jong

It’s been ages since I’ve highlighted a free pattern on Friday, something I did almost without fail for several years after starting the blog, but two fabulously minimalist patterns caught my eye on Ravelry this morning and, voila, “Free pattern Friday” is back.  And today, two for the price of one!  😉

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Kirkendall Shawl Wrap by by Tara-Lynn Morrison

(Photo: gooddaynights)

The Kirkendall Shawl Wrap by Tara-Lynn Morrison is a very simple triangle accessory that is completely customizable with respect to yarn weight and needle size. Simply cast on with something you like and, using nice big needles relative to your yarn weight, follow the 1-row repeat until the wrap is as large as you like. Be sure to cast off as per the pattern instructions for a nice stretchy edge. Experiment with stripes and colour blocking! It couldn’t be easier.  We are loving that tassel addition.

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Jong by Julie Tootill

(Photo: Julie Tootill)

As designer Julie Tootil states, Jong is “a one size fits all pattern….minimal detail, maximum style.”  Basic garter stitch and bulky yarn combine to create a casual, goes-with-everything cardigan / jacket, complete with faux seams and an i-cord edge. Easily adaptable to your preferred length, the top-down construction lets you try it on as you go for a perfect fit. Another quick and super-chic project.

–  Melissa

Free pattern Friday: Chunky Cable Wrap by Cora Bowe

(Photo: Cora Bowe)

Cora Bowe published this great wrap / scarf pattern to Ravelry last month and we’re loving the gigantic proportions and classic cable texture (and that colour!). The Chunky Cable Wrap is knit with super bulky yarn and makes another quick and cozy project for winter.   🙂

BROWSE Super Bulky yarns in our webstore.

(Photo: Cora Bowe)

–  Melissa

Free pattern Friday: Fannie Cap by Margeau Soboti

(Photos: Margeau Soboti)

Margeau Soboti’s Fannie Cap is an easy and stylish hat that leans towards chic or whimsical depending on yarn choice and colour. Worked up with super bulky yarn and 10 mm needles, this is instant gratification knitting at it’s best! We’re thinking Malabrigo Rasta, Cascade Magnum, Cascade Lana Grande, or Freia Ombre Super Bulky…

Need supplies? Shop super bulky yarns and pom pom makers in our webstore.

(Photos: Margeau Soboti)

–  Melissa

Free pattern Friday: Peekaboo Mitts by Abi Gregorio

(Photo: SpiderWomanKnits)

A quick and easy pair of warm and cozy fingerless mitts knit with your favourite worsted weight yarn and 4.5 mm (US 7) needles. Keep them simple with a single colour or personalize them with bright stripes or variegated yarn. There are so many options to choose from – everything from Rowan Pure Wool Worsted and Madelinetosh Vintage through Blue Sky Fibers Woolstok and Quince & Co. Owl.  For some colour changing fun, why not try Schoppelwolle Gradient or a variegated colourway in Manos del Uruguay Maxima.  For exquisite luxury – Woolfolk Far!  Abi Greogio’s Peekaboo Mitts are a great all-around pattern choice for festive gift-giving – no one can ever have too many pairs!

(Photo: SpiderWomanKnits)

– Melissa

Free pattern Friday: Pay it Forward Mittens by Joji Locatelli

(Photo: Jonna Hietala)

Joji Locatelli released a new free pattern and initiated a lovely and thoughtful initiative on Instagram this week to promote the spreading of hope, kindness, and generosity among knitters  and our various communities. You can join the movement on Instagram by using the hashtag #payitforwardmittens and #knitterspayitforward.

The Pay it Forward Mittens are knit using approximately 270 m of fingering weight yarn and the pattern is available in two sizes – women’s small and medium.

(Photo: Jonna Hietala)

–  Melissa

Free pattern Friday: Shells & Tide by Veronika Jobe

Designer Veronika Jobe released a lovely new free pattern on Ravelry this week! Shells & Tide combines broken rib and a traveling lace shell motif in a large and squishy rectangular wrap knit with worsted weight yarn. We think this would be beautiful worked up in Lark from Quince & Co., Madelinetosh Vintage, Berroco Ultra Alpaca, Blue Sky Fibre Woolstok, or Woolfolk Far!

Find the Shells & Tide pattern on Ravelry HERE.
SHOP all worsted weight yarns in our webstore.

(Photos: YOTH Yarns)

– Melissa

Free Pattern Friday: Simple House Slippers (again)

I blogged this free pattern back in July but I think it’s much more appropriate to post it now – there’s nothing quite like a pair of cozy hand knit slippers when the weather takes a sharp left towards winter…

(Photos: Simone A.)

These Simple House Slippers by Simone Alexandra are as easy to wear as they are to knit. The pattern is knit flat at the back (garter stitch) and then in the round for the rest of the foot (stockinette).  The toe has a very rounded shape like the top of mittens making these look and feel more like real slippers than house socks.  Cozy and classic.  Start now and knit a bunch of these in time for holiday gift-giving (yes, I really said that – it’s never too soon to get started)!

Suitable for beginners as well as more advanced knitters looking for an in-between project.

One size fits most (easily adjustable).

I knit this pair last Saturday with Madelinetosh Tosh Chunky and have been wearing them at home ever since! Quick, easy, and oh, so satisfying.

Free pattern Friday: Newport by Sarah Hatton

(Photo: 2016 Rowan Yarns)

A lovely free pattern from Rowan this week!

From KnitRowan.com website –

“…this stunning, round-neck sweater is a welcome addition to any wardrobe. Designed by Sarah Hatton, and featuring ribbed cuffs, hem and neckline, the luxurious nature of the yarn means that this garment would work from day to night.”

This sweater is knit with Rowan’s Kidsilk Haze Vintage which is Kidsilk Haze but with a natural-color core which gives the finished effect a marled, rustic look. We don’t currently carry Vintage but this would be equally beautiful with Kidsilk Haze – currently available in the shop in 41 colourways!

SHOP Rowan Kidsilk Haze in our webstore!

(Photo: 2016 Rowan Yarns)

–  Melissa

New (free) pattern from Espace Tricot: Fair & Square Baby Blanket

We have another new pattern for you this week!  Fair & Square is a happy little baby blanket knit in the round from the center out. The fun stripes provide an opportunity to play with colour and the transitional knit/purl row between each stripe lends lovely texture and dimension. Knit with Rowan Baby Merino Silk DK, a machine washable blend of merino wool and silk, this blanket is squishy and soft and easy to care for – a perfect choice for the little ones in your life.  Our sample is a generous 41″ square but the blanket can be easily reduced by eliminating colours. Modification instructions for a  32” square are provided in the pattern.

Click here to access this free pattern through Ravelry!

SHOP Rowan Merino Silk DK in our webstore.

New (free) pattern from Espace Tricot: Simple Modern Throw

So, calling this a pattern may be stretching things a little but we received so many requests for specifics after Lisa blogged about knitting it for her home that we had to share this very simple recipe. A modern colour-block throw works in just about any space, and soft and squishy garter stitch always brings warmth and comfort. Lisa decided on a 1/3 to 2/3 split for her version but this is an opportunity to play with colour.  Do equal halves or use more than two colours! It’s a mindless, soothing project that lends itself well to knitting in company or while watching TV.  A perfect choice for calming frayed nerves. 🙂

Click here for pattern.

SHOP Madelinetosh Chunky in our webstore.

–  Melissa

 

Free pattern Friday: Favorite Knit Slouchy Hat by Jamie Sande

(Photo: Jamie Sande)

ETA: Unfortunately this pattern is not available anymore, we are sorry for this inconvenience, but we have no influence on this decision.

The Favorite Knit Slouchy Hat by Jamie Sande is one of those great hat patterns you’ll find yourself reaching for over and over. Unisex in style and ultra-chic, this hat will undoubtedly become a cold-weather staple.  Select a soft merino worsted weight yarn and whip up the most comfortable hat you’ll own this winter!  As the designer notes, the simple pattern is excellent for both new and experienced hat knitters.

BROWSE worsted weight yarns in our webstore!

(Photo: Jamie Sande)

–  Melissa

Free pattern Friday: Two very different (but equally fabulous) vests!

Our Free Pattern Friday posts were spotty over the summer but we’re back with two great patterns today to kick things off for Fall!

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Cloaked in Clouds Poncho by Alexandra Tavel

(Photo: Two of Wands )

Perhaps this one is pushing  the definition of “vest” a little bit but I think it still qualifies.  🙂 The Cloaked in Clouds Poncho by Alexandra Tavel is a fabulous statement piece, perfect for wrapping yourself in snuggly warmth as the weather begins to cool. The textured thermal stitch makes this squishy and soft while the wide rib collar adds structure and drama.  Knit in a bulky weight yarn on larger needles, this is a quick and easy project. If you can knit, purl, and pick up stitches, you’re golden!

One size fits all.

How beautiful would it be in Rowan Cocoon or Cascade 128?

(Photo: Two of Wands )

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Pia Vest by Deborah Kemball

(Photo: Deborah Kemball)

A truly fresh and modern take on a classic, the Pia Vest by Deborah Kemball (one of our lovely customers!) epitomizes minimalist flare. Knit entirely in stockinette (including neck and armholes) with a charming picot edge, this vest is an easy knit with DK weight yarn. Beautifully written pattern instructions are accompanied by helpful photos and a few useful tips and tricks.

Currently available in Small and Medium.

We have so many DK weight yarns that would be wonderful for this pattern, depending on your desired look and budget. Click here to browse DK WEIGHT yarns in our webstore.

(Photo: Deborah Kemball)

Free pattern Friday (a little late, again): Talland Tee by Sonja Bargielowska

(Photo: Blacker Yarns)

Talland Tee by Sonja Bargielowska is a lovely top knitted in the round from the bottom up until separating for front and back at the armholes. Great on it’s own or layered over a tank or camisole, this little tee adds a pretty factor to your casual summer wardrobe. Designed to be worn with a relaxed fit (so be sure to select for some positive ease when selecting your size), it can be easily modified for length with the addition or omission of lace pattern repeats.

We think this would be perfect in Hikoo Rylie – a lightweight transeasonal blend of soft baby alpaca, mulberry silk, and linen!

SHOP all fingering weight yarns in our online store.

(Photo: Blacker Yarns)

(Photo: Blacker Yarns)

–  Melissa

Free pattern Friday: Cabled Knit Cardigan by Patons

(Photo: Yarnspirations)

The Cabled Knit Cardigan from Patons is a ‘twist’ on the traditional hoodie. The winding cables on a garter stitch background make for a unique and interesting take on this toddler wardrobe staple. Knit with worsted weight yarn, this will work up beautifully (and quickly!) in everything from Berroco Vintage and Spud & Chloe Sweater through Madelinetosh Vintage and Tanis Fiber Arts Green Label.

Shop worsted weight yarns in our online store.

–  Melissa

 

Free pattern Friday: Ojete (now Onete) from Fairmount Fibers

Just a day late… 🙂

(Photo: Fairmount Fibers Design Team)

Ojete by the Fairmount Fibers Design Team is a beautifully simple and sunny summer shawl knit with just one skein of Manos del Uruguay’s Fino yarn.  Elegant and refined, Fino combines the softness of merino wool with the lustre of silk in a lightweight yarn that’s perfect for luxurious accessories like this one.

Knit on 5mm needles, this gorgeous shawl will knit up in no time!

Shop Manos del Uruguay’s Fino in our online store.

(Photo: Fairmount Fibers Design Team)

–  Melissa

ETA: For some reason this pattern is now called “Onete” and you can find it here: Onete Scarf

 

Free pattern Friday: Vestigial by Beata Jezek

(Photo: Hedgehog Fibres)

Beata Jezek’s Vestigial socks are knit top down, one at a time. The simple structure and easy textured stitch make these a great everyday sock pattern. Choose a bright, cheerful colour for stylish flare or something more neutral for casual understatement. Scroll down and you’ll see that this pattern is also a perfect choice for showing off your hand-dyed variegated yarns!

Click here to access free pattern on Ravelry.

(Photo: Hedgehog Fibres)

(Photo: Deeptone)

–  Melissa

Free pattern Friday: Silken Straw Summer Sweater

(Project photos [clockwise]: MizzBritta, memia, Rrrr, roadrunnerknitter)

The Silken Straw Summer Sweater by Purl Soho is a light summer slip of a sweater that is just as at home over a tank or camisole in the city as it is over a bathing suit at the beach. Beautiful in it’s simplicity, this garment strikes just the right balance between pulled-together elegance and casual comfort. A perfect addition to any summer wardrobe! We love the four versions pictured here – the one on the top left is knit with Louet Euroflax Sport while the other three are worked up in Shibui Linen – both 100% linen yarns.  Linen fabric is cool to the touch and knits up into light, airy garments that become softer with every wear.

Shop Shibui Linen.
Shop Louet Euroflax.

Free pattern Friday: Sandy Shores from DROPS Design

A fresh, casual sweater to take you effortlessly into summer, Sandy Shores by DROPS Design is worked from the top down and requires minimal finishing.

Knit with DROPS Belle, a DK weight blend of cotton, viscose and linen, this simple pullover is light and breezy with a delicate texture and shine. Cast on now, and you’ll be finished in time for beachcombing and campfires!

We are fully stocked with this lovely  three-season yarn in a range of colours from brights to neutrals.

Shop DROPS Belle in our online store now!

–  Melissa

Free pattern Friday: Scarfy Thing by Beata Jezek

(Photo: Hedgehog Fibres Limited)

While designer Beata Jezek of Hedgehog Fibres notes that her instructions for knitting Scarfy Thing comprise more of a recipe than a true knitting pattern – she provides more than enough information and guidance to make this a fun and very do-able project!  And one that will allow you to flex your creative muscles while knitting a version that is completely, uniquely you.

From Beata –“The piece is a truly improvised effort and even if I could write a row by row pattern, it would be perhaps more of a hindrance to the creative process. Arm yourself with 2 full skeins in similar colours and and a bunch of Sock Minis or sock yarn scraps in contrasting colours and off you go. Pick up stitches, change direction, cast on some stitches, knit a smaller then a bigger section. It’s fun and freeing. If in doubt, improvise and add another colour. Then add one more colour! Yay!

Need a starting point?  We think the following sock / fingering weight yarns in our current inventory are ideally suited.

Shop Hedgehog Fibres Skinny Singles
Shop Madelinetosh Unicorn Tails
Shop Madelinetosh Tosh Merino Light
Shop Julie Asselin Fino
Shop Koigu KPPPM
Shop Koigu KPM

(Photo: Hedgehog Fibres Limited)

–  Melissa

Free pattern Friday: Dream Stripes by Cailliau Berangere

(Project photos: Black, White, Fuschia: vervlogendagen  / Blue, White: heikku)

Dream Stripes by Cailliau Berangere is a beautiful triangle shawl knit top-down in stockinette stripes and ending with a simple lace border. This kind of pattern provides a perfect platform for expressing your creativity with colour and texture and begs to be personalized in inventive ways. A quick browse of the finished versions of Dream Stripes on Ravelry (there are 1982!) will give you an idea of what I mean – everything from clear solids and bold variegateds to colour-shifting and subtle tonal yarns are used.  From silk, merino, and alpaca to mohair and every blend in between.  And from lace to worsted weight yarns.

What will you choose?  🙂

Note: Pattern is available in 8 different languages!

–  Melissa

Free pattern Friday: Spring Beanie by Katrine Hammer

(Photo: Katrine Hammer)

Spring Beanie by Katrine Hammer is a simple, stylish hat that is as straightforward to knit as it looks. Choose your favourite DK or light worsted weight yarn and work up this modern beanie in a weekend! A perfect accessory for cool spring days and nights.

Note: The beanie in the photo is knit with Malabrigo Arroyo (100 % merino wool) which, while classified as a sport weight yarn (by weight) is recommended to be worked at a DK or even worsted weight gauge (20 – 22 sts). The gauge of the hat is 20 stitches so, if you’re not using Arroyo, we recommend a DK or even light worsted yarn to achieve a similar look.

–  Melissa

Free pattern Friday: Jenny by Veronika Jobe

Jenny by Veronika Jobe  is “an asymmetrical beauty that has interestingly placed buttons and an eyelet cast on and bind off edge to allow a multitude of options for wearing. This simple knit uses short rows to create a tilted kite like shape that is refreshing and unusual.”

We love the versatility of this little shawl and the opportunity it provides for playing with colour. Pair a solid tone with a speckled colourway (e.g.Hedgehog Fibers Skinny Singles) or select complimentary colourways of any light fingering or fingering weight yarns to create an accessory that is uniquely “you”.

finished dimensions
60” wingspan tip to tip
21” tall at widest point (blocked)

Shop Fingering weight yarns in our online store.

–  Melissa

Free pattern Friday: Self-Important Socks

(Photos: Deborah Kemball)

These gorgeous socks were just published to Ravelry this week and are designed by one of our very own customers! Self-Important Socks by the lovely Deborah Kemball are knit with ARTFIL Belle and feature a two-colour rib, a simple fair isle motif, and the use of high-contrast hues to create socks that beg to be noticed! The pattern provides instructions for Ladies Medium but notes are given for Small and Large.

ARTFIL Belle is the perfect sock blend of 80% superwash merino wool and 20% nylon. Each skein is hand-painted using 80% less water than any other dyeing method.
 Machine washable and versatile, Belle is suitable for all fingering weight projects. ARTFIL yarns are spun and dyed in Quebec, Canada.

Shop ARTFIL Belle in our online store.

–  Melissa

Free pattern Friday: Feather and Fan Scarf

Feather and Fan Short Scarf by Kelly Faller

(Photos: yukihachi161)

Originally designed to be 15″ x 31″, the beautiful and easy Feather and Fan Short Scarf by Kelly Faller can be knit to any length you desire. Grab your favourite lace or fingering weight yarn and cast on for this simple, meditative project with stunning results. 🙂

–  Melissa