Rannerdale sweater knitted in Lore yarn from The Fibre Co in coulourway Stable
A brand new design for a raglan sweater using Lore, a wool yarn from The Fribre Co. This design is part of their new Foundations collection for Lore and I hope you like it. The design is a classic, wearable sweater and the yarn makes this a perfect winter warmer. This knitted jumper is unisex and the pattern is graded to 9 sizes to fit chest measurements from 76cm - 162cm.
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Taylor is wearing her Mdina Cardigan made from her own yarn from a single sheep’s fleece
A fabulous customer project where the knitter has sourced the sheep’s fleece, dyed and spun the yarn and knitted the cardigan using my knitting pattern! A truly wonderful journey from sheep to garment!
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Melanie Jumper designed for Knit Now issue 120 by Kari-Helene Rane
I am so excited to have my first garment adorning the cover of a magazine! Melanie Jumper has been chosen as the cover garment of issue 120 of Knit Now!
Designing wearable jumpers inspired by traditional knitwear must be my happy work place. Working on this design really felt so comfortable and almost familiar. The construction is flat, but unusual in that it is worked from front hem to back hem all in one piece including sleeves! The neckline is created by working one sleeve and shoulder at the time whilst holding the stitches for the other side. Underarm and side seams are joined and cuffs and neckline ribs are added in the round afterwards.
The design details are taken from traditional fisherman’s Ganseys. The vertical garter stripe is usually found at the top opf the sleeves and the moss stitch pattern is usually used on the body of the jumpers. Switching up how the traditional details are used makes this a modern, yet timeless, garment. The design is created using Debbie Bliss Cashmerino Aran (this can be purchased at Love Crafts, the kindly sponsored the yarn for this design), a soft and durable yarn available in a multitude of colours. I am currently working on a new version for myself in cream; a further nod to the inspiration of the design. I just cant wait to wear it! If you want to make you own you can buy a copy of issue 120 of Knit Now in stores and online now!
Deleite is a swoncho (sweater/poncho) design by Kari-Helene Rane
Last year I was given the opportunity to work with the German yarn company Rosy Green Wool. I worked on a design using colour blocking and this is the garment I came up with. Today, Deleite has been released on Rosy Green Wool’s website. Deleite means delight in Portuguese! The shape is slightly oversized with positive ease across the bust. The jumper is worked from the top down, allowing you to make adjustments as you go. The rib at the neck is folded double, giving a polished finish. There is a small amount of short row shaping at the neck giving a dip towards the front. There is also short row shaping at the hem creating a dip towards the back of the garment.
The three colours in the sample garment comes from the new Mood colour palette in the Cheeky Merino Joy range. The three colours are called Cream, Tea and Powder and are a lovely combination. I am planning another sample for a later photoshoot and I can’t wait to show you the colours I have chosen!
I really love the photos the Rosy Green Wool team have taken of my garment. I hope you find it inspiring and want to try the knitting pattern for yourself.
Kate Davies wearing Lorelle Jumper in the left hand photo and Bjelle Top in the right hand photo
As always, I thoroughly enjoy seeing your knitting projects and finished garments. Kate Davies (@fabrickated on instagram) recently shared some fabulous images of her finished projects and I just had to share them with you! She has been very prolific during lockdown and has knitted a Lorelle Jumper and a Bjelle Top. They both look absolutely fab on her, I am sure you will agree!
I love the neutral colour choice for both her projects, letting the simple shape and stitch details really shine, and how fabulous is her feather crown?
Lorelle is a circular jumper knitted from the bottom up with raglan shaping. The zig zag details on cuff, hem and yoke are created through twisted stitches and contrast between knit and purl stitches. The jumper is worked on 5 mm needles and there is very little finishing to do! You can learn more about Lorelle Jumper here.
Bjelle is a cute little top with dramatic puff sleeves. It is worked in seperate pieces, flat and seamed at the end. The front and back are both worked in stocking stitch with narrow rib edges. The sleeves have interesting shaping creating the puff sleeve effect. You can learn more about Bjelle Top here.
Ravelry launched their updated website last week and it has since become obvious that the new site causes severe issues for some people, including seizures in some cases. I have used the new site myself for a short amount of time and experienced a strong headache something that has never happened to me before whilst using the internet. In light of this I have removed all links to my patterns on Ravelry from my website and instead linking to LoveCrafts. I am also in the process of researching how to add PDF patterns to my website, so watch this space. For those still able to use Ravelry, my patterns remain available, but I can’t continue to link to them until the issues are fixed.
For those still able to use Ravelry, my patterns remain available, but I can’t continue to link to them until the issues are fixed.
I am currently running one test knit and all of the test knitting communication will continue via email. I sincerely hope these issues will be fixed as soon as possible, but if you have any questions for me, please feel free to contact me via any of my social media links or via email.
Many of my designs were originally designed for alpaca yarn in natural colours. Alpaca is a warm fibre and by many seen as a yarn for winter use. It is therefore incredibly awesome to see so many knitters out there making my designs in multiple fibres and colours and using them all year round!
I love the way Jeanne has styled her Allegro Shawl. Her version is knitted in Purl Alpaca Designs yarn and is 100% alpaca. The open texture of this wrap around design is perfect for wearing all year round. Layers in winter or over a simple top or dress in summer evenings! Just perfect. You can read more about the Allegro Shawl here.
Jasmin has made a fantastic version of my pattern Chelsea. She has chosen a yarn from The Fibre Co ( sadly discontinued) called Canopy Worsted. This colour is absolutely superb and suits Jasmin so much. Loving how she has styled it as a crop top! It really makes this such a fab summer garment. You can find out more about the pattern here.
Ali has made some awesome modification to her version of Niobe Jumper. She has chosen a wool/cotton blend in a vibrant coral colour and shortened the sleeves to make a fun summer tee. I absolutely love it! You can find out more about the pattern here.
Learning to knit can be a frustrating experience. I am sure most of us have memories of ever lasting, multi coloured scarf projects and jumpers started but never finished. When I teach beginners to knit I always start with an easy project like the Misty Wrist Warmers or Turban. They are both knitted on 5 mm needles using an Aran or Worsted weight yarn. Using needles and yarn that is neither too thin nor too thick is a good idea for beginners. Both of these projects is knit stitch only without increases or decreases, so you can cast on and get going straight away.
A good next step would be the George Hat and Scarf set. This pattern teaches you how to knit basket weave stitch using both the knit and purl stitch. Both the hat and the scarf are knitted using thick needles hence you make fast progress! My pattern calls for two strands of sports weight yarn held together to get the tweed effect but you can easily substitute this for a chunky yarn.
If you fancy developing your knitting skills that little bit further, why not try cabling? The Diana Headband is a fabulous beginners project with a plait consisting of left and right leaning cables. A headband is a great way to learn new skills. It’s a small project and should you make a mistake it’s not too much to unravel! Cabling might look intimidating but it is often found to be easier than knitters initially think. The cables are achieved by stitches being knitted in a different order from the left hand needle. Here’s a nice video explaining the technique.
Many people are using this time in isolation to learn new skills and knitting has increased in popularity lately. However, the current situation can be incredibly overwhelming and please do not feel any pressure to “make the most” of this time. If all you want to do is sleep and watch TV, that’s OK. If you have kids at home, your energy is most likely drained by the time they head for bed, so don’t be hard on yourself if you have no surplus of creativity.
Look after yourself in whatever way that works for you! Kari-Helene xx
The sun is shining on the Midlands in the UK today and it really does something to my mental state! Don’t you find that it is so much easier staying positive when the weather is good?
This morning was spent doing some exercise, the whole family is getting involved in Joe Wicks’ PE lessons in the morning. They really are a good little workout and I have a feeling I will come out of isolation stronger and fitter than before!
My creative energy is currently being challenged in new ways looking after a nearly three year old all day every day and my fabric and yarn stash is coming to good use. You can read more about my adventures making a hobby horse on my Facebook page!
Do you find you are more or less creative at the moment? I think either is absolutely normal. I think we all deal with this isolation differently and we should allow ourselves to be OK with how we feel. Go easy on yourselves out there!
If you are feeling creative, and it looks like quite a few people are, you might be thinking of lighter knits at the moment. Some of my best selling patterns right now are either short sleeved or sleeveless garments.
Chelsea Waistcoat have really done well lately, and I love seeing all the amazing version popping up on Ravelry. The cross over design is very versatile and very in at the moment!
Bjelle Top is a simple top with very dramatic sleeves! The name Bjelle means bell in Norwegian and you might be able to see why! I would love to see this design worked in a silk mix yarn.
Allegro Shawl was one of my very first designs and still a firm favourite. The design came to my mind when I wrapped a shawl around my shoulders and secured it with a belt around my waist. Check it out and you will see why!
All patterns can be found on LoveCrafts.
Stay safe, everyone!
This weekend I went to Trentham gardens, a beautiful park and garden area near where I live. I spotted this beautiful magnolia flower forcing its way out into this confused world. I hope you are all doing ok in these extraordinary circumstances and stay safe!
I am in a fortunate situation in that I already work from home, my business is online based and this shouldn’t mean much of a change for me, but I feel for businesses that see reduced footfall and reduced income. It is going to be tough. Remember that a lot of our local yarn stores also have online stores and if they don’t, give them a call, they will probably be able to put something in the post for you. Yarn shows are being cancelled around the world and independent dyers and yarn producers will feel the pinch. If you were planning on going to a show, consider spending your budget on online shopping in stead. Support small businesses through tough times!
There are many places you can find information on businesses that are affected by the lockdowns and cancellations. Knitty has created a list of cancelled shows in the US with vendor lists attached. I haven’t seen an equivalent for UK shows, so if you know of one, let me know! This list from Being Knitterly is the most comprehensive list of UK shows I have been able to find. If you click on the individual links to the shows it should tell you whether they are going ahead or not.
I will be having my daughter at home from tomorrow onwards and am expecting busy days. If you try to contact me and don’t get a reply straight away it is most likely because I am busy making dinosaurs out of playdough or building train tracks. I hope you are all staying safe and looking after yourselves and your families.
Take care,
Kari-Helene
My newest pattern has just been released in issue 110 of Knit Now. It is in the shops right now, so if you fancy a few lovely projects for the holiday season, head out to grab a copy! It is also available online, check out the website here. The lovely images are ©Knit Now.
My design is called Carla Jacket and I designed this to be the ultimate cosy garment. It has a generous amount of positive ease meaning that you can easily wrap the fronts round yourself for some added warmth. The jacket is knitted mainly in stocking stitch with ribs at the bottom and front edges. The rib has a simple slip stitch detail to create a subtle pattern. The most important thing for me with this design was the pockets. A knitted cardigan with pockets just feels so comfy!
The cardigan is knitted bottom up and the body is worked all in one piece. Sleeves are worked separately. The neckline has a gentle slope and the shoulders have short row shaping to create the perfect fit.
Carla Jacket is knitted in Alpaca Classic from Rowan Yarn. The yarn has a cotton core with a fluffy alpaca fibre halo creating a lightweight and soft yarn. It doesn’t shed whilst working with it and the end result feels luxurious and warm.
If you fancy a copy of the pattern, make sure to get your hands on issue 110 of Knit Now!
If you are after the perfect hat and glove set, look no further. Hunter of Pantsville Press has got you sorted! Beautiful, intricate stitch patterns or simple, graphic looks, she’s got something for every taste. Whilst you are having a look at her designs, make sure to check out the bundle call Tiny Things as she also designs the cutest ornaments. I am not usually one for fiddly knits, but her trees, stars and acorns are just so cute!
If you are interested in Lee’s designs you can see more of her work in her Ravelry store .
If you decide to make any of Hunter’s patterns make sure you enter into the Indie Giftalong. All her paid for patterns are eligible to join in with and you can win some fantastic prizes! Come join in with the fun and chat in the Indie Giftalong Ravelry group here.
Sophie is behind Unicorn Knits and she creates among other things some of the cutest children garments out there. I may try find time for one of them as a present for Alma this year. I’ve got the perfect yarn in my stash! Now which one to choose…
Sophie lives in London and as well as self publishing patterns she writes for magazines such as Knit Now.
If you are interested in Sophie’s designs you can see more of her work in her Ravelry store and you can find all the patterns in her Indie giftalong bundle here.
During the first week of the giftalong there is 25% discount on all eligible patterns, so head on over to get a few gift knitting patterns at a reduced price! Use code giftalong2019 at checkout to apply the discount.
Loraine is the brains behind Woolly Madly Deeply and when I say brains I really mean it. One of the things I love the most is a good seamless design and a modular cardigan is really top of the list! Working out the construction of such a garment is a fascinating process and Loraine is doing a great job of it! She has also got some great accessories, cabled hats and mitts perfect for the giftalong.
If you are interested in Loraine’s designs you can see more of her work in her Ravelry store and you can find all the patterns in her Indie giftalong bundle here.
During the first week of the giftalong there is 25% discount on all eligible patterns, so head on over to get a few gift knitting patterns at a reduced price! Use code giftalong2019 at checkout to apply the discount.
If you are after a colourful and fun hat or even that multicoloured balaclava, look no further! Leethal Knits has you sorted! I’ve loved checking out all the interesting crown shapings and colour combos and I think I might try my hand at one of them during the GAL. In addition to designing cool stuff, Lee also donates 50% of all sales to good causes and for November it’s Doctors without borders, so there really is no reason not to spend in Leethal Knits’ Raverly Store!
If you are interested in Lee’s designs you can see more of her work in their Ravelry store and you can find all the patterns in her Indie giftalong bundle here.
During the first week of the giftalong there is 25% discount on all eligible patterns, so head on over to get a few gift knitting patterns at a reduced price! Use code giftalong2019 at checkout to apply the discount.
If you are after something to knit for your children take a look at Aida Sofie Knits. Created by Yvonne, a fellow Norwegian, her designs oozes Scandinavian practicality whilst still looking gorgeous! Her colour choices are fab too!
Yvonne lives in Kristiansand on the south coast of Norway and she taught herself how to knit when she wanted a baby blanket for her daughter but couldn’t find anyone to knit it!
If you are interested in Yvonne’s designs you can see more of her work in her Ravelry store and you can find all the patterns in her Indie giftalong bundle here.
During the first week of the giftalong there is 25% discount on all eligible patterns, so head on over to get a few gift knitting patterns at a reduced price! Use code giftalong2019 at checkout to apply the discount.
Meet Faye Kennington of Ukee Knits. She lives in Canada on Vancouver Island and creates fun, colourful, quick knits. Just look at those socks! They would just make perfect Christmas presents. Faye has an education in Fashion Design combined with a diploma in Business Administration and finds this the perfect background for the self employed hand knit designer.
If you are interested in Faye’s designs you can see more of her work in her Ravelry store .
f you decide to make any of Faye’s patterns make sure you enter into the Indie Giftalong. All her paid for patterns are eligible to join in with and you can win some fantastic prizes! Come join in with the fun and chat in the Indie Giftalong Ravelry group here.
A big part of the Indigiftalong is cross promotion. This means that rather than focusing on promoting your own designs during this event, you try and promote other designers. With so many talented designers to choose from, the only issue is who to choose. There are nearly 300 designers taking part and so many of hem design knitwear so I thought I would start us of with a crochet designer! I really like how Lilla Bjorn Crochet is able to create shape and colourwork mimicking traditional knitwear whilst still keeping it different and fresh. Gorgeous colours too!
Tatsiana is the brains behind Lilla Bjorn Crochet and she is a self taught crochet designer. She lives in the Czech Republic and her life sounds very similar to mine in many respects. She has a husband, small child and a dog and works on her designs whilst her son is away at nursery. If you would like to know more about Tatsiana there is a lovely interview with her here.
Take a closer look at Tatsiana’s patterns in her Ravelry store here.
The end of November sees the beginning of the Indie Gift-a-long. The Indie Gal is a fabulous concept promoting independent designers on Ravelry through cross promotion. Every year it helps me and other knitting pattern designers reach a lot of new knitters around the world. It all kicks off with a week long sale. 20 of my patterns will be included in the sale and by suing code giftalong2019 in my (or any of the other participating designer’s) Ravelry store you can get 25% off.
As well as the sale there is also a five week KAL/CAL where the aim is to produce as many completed projects as possible, whether they are made as Christmas gifts or for yourself. When you enter your projects in the GAL you are in with a chance of winning some of the many prizes available. Every designer taking part gives 6 free patterns and there are also some great physical prizes to win. If you are really ambitious you can try for the Opadoo; one finished project in each of the categories! I hope you will join in!
Click here for the Ravelry group!
Being Norwegian you’d think it would be easy for me to write knitting patterns in Norwegian, right? Unfortunately not. I learnt to write patterns in English and have worked solely in English for over 10 years so I had to get some help from the talented Linda Marveng to do the translation of my Maddie Dress patterns. I have finally launched the Norwegian version and to celebrate I am offering 2 for 1 on these designs until midnight 13th of November 2019. No code needed, just add both patterns to your Ravelry basket and the discount gets taken off.
Maddie Dress has long been a favourite among my designs, and I love the way the different needle sizes used in the skirt creates a lightweight, yet full skirt. You can get the pattern here!
Maddie Child’s Dress is probably my all time best selling pattern and I think the cute pattern photo might have something to do with it! This dress makes a brilliant occasion dress for a little one. Still time to make on for Christmas! The pattern can be found here.