Thursday, April 23, 2009
NEW PATTERN POSTED: THE PUAU SHELL TOP
Color and pattern play a shell game
The lacy, open top floats over New Zealand
The gorgeous paua shell, native to the deep blue waters of New Zealand, is noted for its predominant blue and purple color currents reflecting silvery luminescence. Occasionally woven with copper, chunky browns, blacks, and ribbons of silver, the surface virtually dances with radiance, a synergy captured in this loose, swingy, top.
Here's an easy, one-size fits all knit with drop sleeves and a deep, one-button neckline. Perfect for all body types, its kimono-like shape flows around leaner forms while draping in elegant waves that streamline more abundant shapes like my own, pictured. Could there be an easier summer cover-up for a chill summer's eve? It's like wearing a shawl minus the pesky ends. in cooler climes, try donning it over a turtleneck.
Random feather & fan is featured here along with bands of garter, stockinet, and wave stitch (a variation of the drop or long stitch). The combination evokes the movement of light playing across the shell’s surface and keeps the weight lacy and open. It’s so much fun to knit! Boredom need not apply. Just cast on with size 4.5 mm/US 6 needles and start playing with yarns in primarily blues, purples and greens, surely the most soul-satisfying colors in existence. Three inches into the piece, you have the option to move to larger needles making this a fast knit to complete.
Feather&fan plays with drop and garter
Knit from your stash or start anew. As with all free-range knitting, any yarn works here but I recommend using lighter sock-weight yarns mixed with DK’s and the occasional band of scrunchy ribbon for a summer feel. Most of the yarns used in the original are silk or silk-wool blends. Sometimes I double them up by holding two yarns together while, at other times I’ll knit the yarn single ply. The design allows for plenty of variation in yarn types.
Hand-dyed yarns join the dance
PATTERN AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE HERE: http://www.janethornley.com/patterns_tops.html#32
Posted by Jane on
04/23 at 01:21 PM