It's downright frigid in Chicago

So I'm breaking out all of my newly knitted and long-forgotten woolies to wrap myself in. I assume you're all doing the same?

Leave me a note and let me know what you're working on - holiday gifts? "Selfish" knitting?

If you're looking for a bit of inspiration, check out the Breean Elyse boards on Pinterest...

There's one dedicated to Colorwork Inspiration:

Source: images.thesartorialist.com via Breean on Pinterest

One for Urban Inspired Knits:

Source: coffeestainedcashmere.tumblr.com via Breean on Pinterest

New Pattern: Whelk Hat - Part of Summer Stack

The Whelk Hat is one of those rare, exquisite combinations where pattern and yarn combine to make a perfect project.

The pattern is written to feature two lovely yarns – Brooklyn Tweed LOFT and Malabrigo Finito – in two sizes, long and short.  

Materials:

-      Size US 2, 16” circular needles

-      Size US 4, 16” circular needles

-      Size US 4 double pointed needles

-      Long Version: 1 skein Brooklyn Tweed LOFT (Brown hat shown in Nest colorway)

-      Short Version: 1 skein Malabrigo Finito (Ochre hat shown in Mostaza colorway)

-      Tapestry needle & Stitch marker

Gauge (blocked):  

-      Long Version: 15sts = 2” in 2x2 ribbing

-      Short Version: 17sts = 2” in 2x2 ribbing

Finished Measurements (blocked and unstretched):

-      Long Version: 19.5” circumference; 9” long

-      Short Version: 16” circumference; 7.75” long

Check out the Whelk Hat on Ravelry, where it's available for purchase as an idividual pattern or as part of the Summer Stack subscription.

Free November Cowl Recipe - Happy Thanksgiving!

I can't claim this is my own pattern, or that it's original even in the slightest. Inspired by Jared Flood's ribbed, striped scarf, I made this simple cowl.

In case you'd like to make one yourself, here's the simple recipe.

November Cowl Recipe

Materials:

1 skein Malabrigo Merino Worsted (Verde Esperanza pictured) - Used for the Main Color (MC)

2 skeins (about 1.5, actually) Noro Silk Garden (#211 pictured) - Used for the Contrast Color (CC)

US 9 needles (I used circulars)

Spare needle (for three needle bindoff)

Measurements: 30" circumference; 11" wide

Gauge: 10 sts = 2" in 1x1 rib

1x1 Rib Stitch Pattern:

Row 1: K1, *P1, K1; rep from * to end.

Row 2: P1, *K1, P1; rep from * to end.

Cooking Instructions :)

With MC, cast on 69 sts (any odd number will do).

Continuing with MC, work in 1x1 rib stitch pattern, repeating those two rows until the piece measures 30" from cast on edge.

As you work the rib pattern, switch from MC to CC every two rows, twisting the yarns up the side of the work to form a neat edge.

End after you have completed Row 1 with the MC.

Using MC, work a three needle bindoff.

Tips for the bindoff: Using the spare needle, pick up 69 sts along the cast on edge. Fold the piece in half so that the bindoff and cast on edges meet - do not twist or you will make a mobius. Knit one stitch from the bindoff edge together with one stitch from the cast on edge. This acts as one stitch - now pass stitches over as you would during a normal bindoff process.

Weave in all of the ends. Wear! I did not block this piece in order to keep the squishy ribbing intact.

Happy Thanksgiving!

November Cowl Recipe on Ravelry

New Pattern: Hyacinth Cowl

Hi there! Another new pattern!

The Hyacinth Cowl is a simple design, great for those looking to move beyond simple rectangles.

A few interesting stitches, including purl two together (p2tog), will keep more advanced knitters interested.

The silk and cashmere yarn creates a soft, buttery fabric with amazing drape and slight sheen.

This yarn (Ensemble from Artyarns) literally glows due to the fiber content and the beautiful colorway.

Indigo Swan Cowl Now Available on Ravelry

The Indigo Swan Cowl is now available on Ravelry!

Make one for a friend, boy or girl, and make one for yourself too.