Fyberspates Blog

Purple Gold Scarf

(c) MsWeaver

This new pattern is one for the crochet lovers out there- Tunisian Crochet in fact. Purple Gold is a lacy two-color scarf worked in a bold chevron pattern. The name comes from the two shades of the lovely Scrumptious Lace that designer Yuliya Tkacheva used in this design.

The scarf is easy enough for someone with only basic knowledge of Tunisian crochet, yet the pretty chevron pattern would not bore a more experienced crocheter. Depending on your colour choice, it can be unisex and suitable for all ages.

(c) MsWeaver

The rows are both written out and charted. The pattern also includes photo-instructions on how to change colours and a few extra chevron ideas. Yuliya has included tutorials for key Tunisian Crochet techniques on her website so this could be just the pattern to get you started. 

(c) MsWeaver

The project calls for 1 skein each of Scrumptious Lace, our 45% silk, 55% merino base in two contrasting colours. As always, please check the retailers list for your local LYS or visit the Fyberspates online shop to start your project. 

Knitting and Your Health

Most knitters have heard the phrase 'that must be SO therapeutic!' often exclaimed by non knitters upon seeing you knitting or wearing a finished item. It can be hard to explain just why we're all so in love with knitting and why it makes us feel good but a new book that's just released might be a good start. In a past life, pre dyeing, Jeni met Betsan Corkhill who was conducting trials into the benefits of knitting. Betsan got in contact to share the news that her findings were published very recently and we wanted to share the book with you. 

(c) Stitch Links

In her book, 'Knit for Health and Wellness', Betsan shares her knowledge of using Therapeutic Knitting clinically and integrates this with recent research, her medical knowledge, data from a survey of over 3,500 knitters, and stories from knitters around the globe. It's genuinely fascinating work that really helps you think about harnessing what Betsan refers to as 'the power in your own hands'.

 

Chapters in the book include 'Quiet Knitting', 'Knitting together' and 'Sit Well'. There's a range of ideas in this book to help you choose projects that provide you with the nost therapeutic benefit, help you improve your knitting posture and a good exploration of the benefits of quiet moments of solitude or socialable stitching. The book is available to download via Amazon (US link) and you can find more details on Betsan's website, Stitchlinks. 

Inspiration Knits Mystery KAL

This month, Louise Zass-Bangham, aka Inspiration Knits is hosting her Mystery Knitalong and the pattern information has just been released!

The Slipstream Cowl is an elegant cowl, perfect to wear over a sweater or under a coat. You can easily adjust the size to suit you best. There is also the option to add beads for a little glamour. Worked in the round, this is an intermediate project that is ideal for variegated or semi-solid yarn as colours slipstream from one clue to the next. The interesting textures show-off all the colours beautifully. 

'Mixed Magentas' on Vivacious 4ply

Louise has suggested Vivacious 4ply, our high twist Superwash 100% Merino wool yarn. This tough but soft yarn is perfect for accessories and especially those that require a little stitch definition. It's also a great yarn for accessories that are likely to get a little friction due to the high twist preventing piling on this supersoft Merino base. Perfect for matching mittens which Louise will also be mystery KAL-ing(is that a verb? It is now)!

 

We love the idea of making lighter weight accessories as the weather warms up that will be ready to wear this Autumn. Actually, knowing the UK we'll be wearing them on and off for months- we're not known for good weather! Atleast if it does heat up, Vivacious 4ply is high twist and light enough to stop fingers feeling hot and sticky. Who says knitting is just for cold weather?

'Lavender Haze' on Vivacious 4ply

Clues will be available for FREE on Louise's blog until the MKAL ends, when it will become a paid-for pattern on Ravelry. Now you can get organised and choose your yarn ready for the first clue out on 1 July! There are plenty of colour options ready to go in the Fyberspates shop or alternatively, check our retailers list to find a stockist near you.

 

 

 

Woolfest 2014

This month Fyberspates will be attending Woolfest on Friday 27th June 10am- 6pm and Saturday 28th June 10 am- 5pm. Woolfest is located in Cockermouth, Cumbria and last year attracted over 6000 visitors who love this woolly fibre event. 

 

It's one of the last chances to see the Fyberspates hand dyed yarns in the flesh before Jeni takes a pause from hand dyeing. At the show you will be able to find plenty of Scrumptious, Vivacious and Gleem as well as all our pattern collections. In terms of hand dyes, look out for Faery Wings, Pure Silks, Rural Charm and Twizzle. Here's a taste of what to expect.

Faery Wings

Pure Silk 4ply

Rural Charm

Keep an eye on instagram over the coming week to see what's coming out of the dyepots and being packed up. See you there?