August 7, 2017

F.O. Lanterns by Sylvia McFadden


It was just last summer that I had the opportunity to visit 88 Stitches, the sweetest yarn shop in Langley, B.C.  Much to my utter delight the pieces designed by Sylvia McFadden of Softsweater Knits were on display.  Previous to visiting 88 Stitches I was a big fan of Sylvia McFadden's patterns on Ravelry. But when I saw her creations in person I was in love. I knew I had to knit one.  (You can see the photos I took that day here if you are interested.)  

Pattern:  Lanterns




Designer:  Sylvia McFadden (Softsweater Knits)
Yarn  Sweet Fiber Yarns Cashmere DK (100% cashmere) 4 skeins
Colourway: Spiced Pumpkin

Needles:   4.0mm
Ravelry:  Link

Pre-blocking
Added Notes:
1.  This is the first time I have knit with 100% cashmere. It is incredibly soft, but what struck me is that there was not much give to the yarn.  The pattern called for fingering weight yarn but I wanted a heavier shawl and chose a DK weight.  I used almost all of the four skeins I had.  When I cast off I was disappointed with how small the shawl was (52 x 17") and never having blocked cashmere before I wasn't sure what to expect.  What happened was magical. The lace just opened up and the shawl grew to the perfect size (68 x 32").

2.  The designer gives you the choice to do either a twisted version or a regularly knit version.  I chose the twisted version and I am glad I did.

2.  This is not the first pattern I have knit by this designer.  Check out The Elder Tree Shawl as well. (Blogged here).  I highly recommend her patterns.  They are easy to follow and the results are beautiful.

5 comments:

  1. that is absolutely stunning, and I love the colour! Like fall leaves.

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    Replies
    1. Thank you Julie...lace knitting always takes me a long time but when I see it blocked I feel like it was worth it.

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  2. I already admired it on Ravelry, but can say it again and again - a true piece of art!!!

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