Monday 18 November 2013

Haystacks

Introducing Haystacks - my latest sock pattern just out on Ravelry



The pattern is a fun one. Some slipped stitch mock cables and a side cable which twists down the leg add to the interest but are easily memorised. The socks are man-friendly without a hint of lace or openwork and the pattern is presented as either a toe-up or a cuff down version to suit your preference. And, as an added bonus, the stitch patterns are super stretchy - making it an ideal pattern for gift knitting.

Until Nov 21st there is also 50% of the purchase price on Ravelry - just use the code 'Haystacks'

In case you were wondering, Haystacks is a well known hill in the English Lake District. It was made famous by Alfred Wainright, the well known walker and author who loved it dearly. It is also a firm family favourite of ours and the inspiration for these socks came about one sunny summer walk on the fell, whilst my two boys were having fun scrambling on rocks.

Both my boys now have a mini-pair of these socks and I hope they bring some fun into your life too.

Thursday 14 November 2013

Cowl Love

I have been feeling a little overwhelmed recently - the usual story - too many WIPs and not enough time to knit them all. So the last thing I needed was another project, but I needed to whip up something luxurious and indulgent for a friend going through a hard time, and I happened to come across a skein of Solstice Yarns Ishtar Lace (a delicious silk/baby camel blend) in a perfect delicate green colour (Chartreuse)

I couldn't resist.

So a quick Ravlery surf later I came up with the April Showers Cowl pattern.



The yarn is held double which gives a wonderful feel and drape, and because you start with a provisional cast on and then graft the ends closed you can knit until you have used almost every scrap of precious yarn - the perfect project.

I'm so in love with the finished cowl. It's a good job my friend is a very dear one, otherwise she would be getting a box of chocs and I would have a lovely new cowl to wear today :)