Not only we knitters and crocheters, but a few of us are also spinners. We spin, we ply and we grow our stash but at times we forget to use our lovely handspun for special projects for ourselves or for others as gifts.
Photo courtesy of Caryn Lantz of Fuzzy Noodle Knits
New to the Ravelry database is Gray Gardens, a lovely lace cowl by Caryn Lantz of Fuzzy Noodle Knits. This pattern has been designed especially for the use of handspun yarn. Knitted in a delicate and simple lace pattern, this design gives texture while enhancing the color of the fiber. This pattern is perfect to not only keep warm and cozy, but a perfect way to show of your beautiful handspun yarn.
Photo courtesy of Stephanie Pearl-McPhee
For more bulky weight handspun, the An Unoriginal Hat Pattern by Stephanie Pearl- McPhee , the Yarn Harlot, is just the ticket. This quick knit features two easy cable stitch patterns that can be knitted up in a matter of an hour or two.
Stephanie has also provided knitters with the One Row Handspun Scarf . This pattern is super quick with only one row to learn as the stitch pattern and offers a reversible look. This pattern works with any gauge, is easy to adjust for width and length to suite your needs, and truly perfect to show off the colors of your handspun.
Photo courtesy of Kristen TenDyke
If you like fingerless mitts, the Wabi-Sabi Handspun Mitts by Kristen TenDyke is the answer. This pattern is unique as the single hank of handspun yarn, approximately 94 yards, is wound into a center pull ball and then both mitts are cast on at the same time, each from opposite ends of the ball. With both mitts being worked at the same time, this makes a quick and super easy portable project!
There are so many more patterns to choose from, but as a new spinner, I thought these would make quick projects for me to cast on to try out my newly acquired hanspun that I’ve so lovingly created.
Wonderful!
Thank you Sarah!
I’m very happy to know about the Unoriginal Hat. I’ve been thinking about making something very much like it. Thanks for sharing it.
You’re so welcome Kathryn ~ it’s a great quick knit!
Basically any pattern can be adapted to use handspun. Ysolda has the lovely Urchin pattern which is great for the bulkier handspuns. I am knitting shawls out of handspun. I have had to adjust my needle size but that is the norm for me.
And the more you spin, the more control you gain over your finished singles. I am currently spinning for a three ply fingering weight. That means three bobbins of lace weight to ply together eventually. Will it be even? No but that is the joy of handspun.
Keep spinning!
That’s so true Mia on the patterns – I’m just having fun trying to find the “right” one
Wow, lace weight!!! Only in my dreams at this point. My singles are pretty good and I typically achieve DK weight, I’m just afraid to get it thinner for lace.