Off the Needles /// An Eco Arika

Ever since binding off my brightly coloured Arika Cowl I've been wanting a neutral version for myself. My goal was to have it finished for Knit City so that I could wear it at the show and still have the original sample to display. I chose Cascade Eco to show the versatility of the pattern. My gauge was spot on but the Cascade yarn is woollier than the Kenzington and results in a fuller cowl and fringe. And because I used the undyed Ecological Wool, the cowl is actually surprisingly soft, especially after blocking! An added bonus -- you can make 2 Arika Cowls from one of these massive skeins!

I managed to finish in time for the show and wore it the entire weekend (and haven't really taken it off since -- I even wear it in the house!). I received SO many compliments on it and knitters were so excited about the unique construction and how quick and simple the knitting was.

The best part is -- Hikoo has a colour in the Kenzington that's almost identical called Pavalova. I've set to work knitting up a sample to show just how much colour can make a difference in the overall look and style of a pattern. I'll share it here when I'm done!

So, what's on your needles?

NEW Pattern /// Clarke Pullover

Finally, I get to share my striped pullover pattern with you!

Meet Clarke!

I was originally inspired to knit this pullover because of my love for the comfortable fit of Palladio. Unlike the A-line shape of that pullover, I've designed the body of this garment to fit more like a boyfriend sweater. It's worn here with 4 inches of positive ease and no waist shaping. The neckline is slightly wider than a crew to give the pullover a more casual look and feel.

I chose YOTH yarns Big Sister for it's softness. If you haven't tried this yarn yet, you must! Because it's a DK weight it makes a perfect all season garment and the cashmere content means it can be worn against the skin as well as over layers.  I also chose a length that works well with both jeans and shorts, and finished the hemline with a flattering split hem.

When I was designing and knitting Clarke, I was obsessed with The 100 and spent many nights binge watching episodes on Netflix while I completed the sample. I like to think the overall feel of this pullover was inspired loosely by the comfortable, well-worn clothing and neutral colours found on set. I chose to name the pullover after my favourite female lead in the show, Clarke -- a strong, independent thinker, who isn't afraid of taking risks.   

This pullover would be equally wonderful in a solid colour. It's also a perfect introduction to stripes -- the colour combinations are endless! And the pattern includes two methods for creating jogless stripes!  

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Happy Knitting!