Cowl thesis

My foray into a gift-worthy knit this year has turned into a thesis – my cowl thesis!  And as long as I stay within gift giving deadlines, an enjoyable one at that.  I don't typically wear cowls so exploring their variations in dimension, fit, and fabric drape has created a bit of a research project for me. 

All versions have their lace in common – flame chevron – named appropriately I'd say for taking the chill off.  This stitch pattern is shown above worked in Baby Alpaca DK (green tea) by Shibui Knits and Lark (frost) by Quince & Co.  And just to prove my mettle, I've worked another, not shown, in Quince & Co's Chickadee!

The piece I'll gift is slowly coming into focus and will require a 4th version, slated to be on my needles today. I plan to offer them all as a set in a single pattern – soon – for other knitters to enjoy.

Paper toys 2012

Every August I pause from knit design to orchestrate something else – the Hoss family Christmas Picks.

I make paper toys that highlight an event from the past year and announce the upcoming holiday gift giving assignment for each of my dear in-laws, 16 of us in all.  This year we celebrated Pam and Scott's new home.

By now it's well known that Santa Deb will deliver something knitted.  And sure enough, design work is underway.

Teresa and the Bernards

Teresa married Bernard Henry. Bernard's father was named Bernard Henry too, and so was his son.  His grandson they named Henry Bernard, probably because his cousin Bernard Henry had already snagged it in its original form. Confused yet? Henry Bernard's grandson – my dad – was a Bernard Henry too, and I'm pretty sure that's the end of the naming line.  I know of no Bernards and Henrys within the family since then.  Probably a good thing.

This sweater is named for great-great-grandmother Teresa, and dedicated to all the Bernard Henrys and at least one of the Henry Bernards I know of.

Introducing Teresa, a long-sleeved cardigan with a deep v-neckline. Worked in 2 colors (one main and its trim), Seeded Rib Check is its stitch – a simple alternating sequence of knits and purls, dense and springy, and super comfortable. Horizontal pockets positioned at the hips are lined with the color of its trim, for some secret fun. Pieces are knit flat, bottom-up, with seaming.

Versatile Teresa will surely become one of my year-round favorites. I can just tell.

Click here for pattern details.  You'll find this pattern for sale on Ravelry.