Cablewing Sweater Pattern Released

Posted on February 26, 2014 by Linda Marveng

I am delighted to release the Cablewing Sweater pattern in both English and Norwegian in my Ravelry Store, see Ravelry. The English pattern has been through test knitting in my group on Ravelry, and the pattern improved. My test knitters made a whole series of stunning garments I will present later, with their permission. The Norwegian pattern was first printed in the magazine called Strikkeboka/Knitting book published by Familien in August 2013. The sweater, photographed by Esten A. Borgos, is knitted in the beautiful Embla – Hifa 3 from Hillesvåg and comes in a large selection of stunning colors, see Ull.no. Cablewings surrounded by lace gives this sweater a flowery expression. The a-line shape with lace along each side, paired with the double round neckband, is a flattering on many bodies. The pullover is knitted in the round to the armhole in a classic cream colored pure wool with bounce, Embla from Hifa. A large matching wrap gives the sweater a regal look and it is warm, practical, but also decorative.

Sizes: S (M, L, XL, XXL)

Finished Measurements: Bust: 90 (96, 110, 116, 122) cm/35.5 (37.75, 43.25, 45.25, 48)” Hip: 110 (116, 132, 138, 142) cm/43.25 (45.5, 52, 54.25, 56)” Length: 72 (72, 75, 77, 77) cm/28.25 (28.25, 29.5, 30.25, 30.25)” Sleeve length: 46 cm/18″ all sizes. Wrap: Circumference: 100 cm/39.5″, height: 44 cm/17.25″

Yarn: Hifa, Embla – Hifa 3 in natural sh 6057: 6 (7, 8, 9, 10) skeins; 1260 (1470, 1680, 1890, 2100) m/1378 (1607, 1837, 2067, 2296) yds for sweater and an additional 3 skeins fro wrap: 567 m/620 yds (100% wool, 210 m/229 yds, 100 g). Ull.no.

Yarn alternative: Cascade, 220 (100% Peruvian Highland Wool; 100 g, 201 m/220 yds). Cascade Yarns.com

Needles: 4 mm/US 6 circular needles (80 cm/32″) and (40 cm/16″) for sweater and wrap. 4 mm/US 6 DPNs or circular needle for magic loop method.
3.25 mm/US 3 circular needles (40 cm/16″) for neck band. Or size needed for gauge.

Notions: Cable needle. 6 stich markers: 2 for sides, 4 for pattern. 6 stitch holders. Yarn needle.

Gauge: 22 sts and 28 rows in Cablewing Pattern, 20 sts and 25 rows in st st using 4 mm/US 6 needles equals 10 cm/4″ square. 20 sts and 25 rows in stockinette stitch using 4 mm/US 6 measures 10 cm/4″ square.

Notes:
The body is knitted in the round up to the armholes and then flat to shoulders. The lace panel incorporated in the cablewing pattern is worked on each side of the body to decrease in. When you decrease for armhole, neck and sleeve top work stitches along the selvedges in reverse stocking stitch to avoid decreasing inside Cablewing Pattern. The wrap is knitted in the round, and can easily be adjusted by adding or removing pattern repeats.

Hønsestrikk til folket

Posted on February 22, 2014 by Linda Marveng

Chicken knits to the people is a direct translation from Norwegian of this popular newly published book by Cecilie Kaurin and Linn Bryhn Jacobsen, see cappelendamm. Slipp fargene fri/Let the colors loose is their encouragement to knitters here in Norway, written on a heart shaped chart with a photograph of the trendy Karpe Diem sweater on the cover of this book ring bound for easy and regular use, see my earlier post; Hobby Night at Cappelen Damm. Some knitters have even commented that they would have preferred to have the cover laminated too, so that the wear would be even less. I still have a number of my favorite patterns laminated, so I understand the request too well…

Chicken knitting has nothing to do with chickens, but is a 40- year old term invented by the Danish author and knitter Kirsten Hofstätter, who was tired of not being able to buy patterns without buying yarn, and made her own pattern book with less rigid pattern set up. She was refused by the left radical publishing firm Rød Hane/Red Cock and started her own publishing firm called Hønsetryk/Chicken print. She encouraged knitters to create and fantasize with knitting needles without strictly following a knitting pattern. Chicken knit became a term for knitting with colorful yarns, preferably waste yarn and for making your own colourwork borders. So begins the foreword to the book, and continues with how to knit creatively making up your own pattern. The patterns in the book are all knitted in the round and steeked. Not all border repeats fit the stitch number but the authors encourage you to end in the side where it is less visible. All the major borders on the body should fit, though, and you can adapt the smaller ones to fit yourself if you prefer. The book contains 23 patterns – with different variations for each one – for adults, children and accessories as well as chapters on tips and tricks and gauge/tension; personalizing your sweater; and how to make the perfect chicken hanger for your chicken knits. You will find more info and a fun free wrist warmer pattern in both Norwegian and English on their blog here: chickenknitting.blogspot and more of the projects on the preview here: Issuu.

I could not resist to show a children’s version of the divine Karpe Diem sweater seeing this stunning photo. It is knitted in Mitu (50% wool, 50% alpaca, 50 g, 100 m/109 yds) a DK weight from Rauma Ullvarefabrikk, using 5 suggested colors and 3.5 mm/US 4 circular needles, see Raumaull. See other patterns from the book on the Cappelen Damm’s blog: forlagsliv. The book has been sold to a Danish publisher so far. Enjoy and start creating your own borders to make your own sweater.

New pattern release: Lace Top & Cowl

Posted on February 19, 2014 by Linda Marveng

I am delighted to release the English version of the Lace Top & Cowl, called “Blondegenser” in my Norwegian book, in my Ravelry Store, see Lace-Top. Above is the pattern cover, with photos of the beautiful dancer Francesca Golfetto brilliantly captured by Kim Müller. I have written a more detailed English version of the pattern, while my Creative Director (read: husband) has made a new chart, and a schematic. Just to make sure I did not add any mistakes, I sent it to my technical editor Heather Zoppetti to check, see Stitchsprouts. From the intro to my pattern: I have been searching for a fitted party sweater for awhile, since I have not found one, I have designed one. Inspired by Missoni’s collections I have chosen a yarn made of tencel that has a fabulous drape and shine. The yarn can be pulled into shape and hides all unevenness. The sweater is knitted in Valley Yarns 8/2 Tencel held double which comes in a large selection of color that makes it possible for you to create your own.

Sizes: S (M, L)

Finished measurements: Top: Bust: 90 (94, 99) cm/35.5 (37, 39)” Waist: 78 (82, 87) cm/30.75 (32.25, 34.25)” Hip: 90 (94, 99) cm/35.5 (37, 39)” Length: 54 (55, 56) cm/21.25 (21.75, 22)” Sleeve length 46 cm/18″ Cowl: 32 cm/12.5″ height and 54cm/21.25″ circumference.

Yarn: Valley Yarns 8/2 Tencel in Black (100% Lyocell, 1lb/454 g, 3360 yds/3675 m): 1 (1, 1) Cone: 2346 (2670, 2993) m/2565 (2920, 3273) yds for top and an extra 770 m/842 yds used for cowl. Note: Yarn is held double throughout pattern. Yarn

Alternative yarns: Jaggerspun Zephyr Wool-Silk 2/18 held double (50% merino, 50% tussah silk, 454 g/1lb, 5040 yds/ 4609 m) Jaggeryarn Drops, Lace held double (70% alpaca, 30% silk, 800 m/ 874 yds, 100 g) Garnstudio

Needles: 3mm/US 2.5 straight needles, 3 mm/US 2.5 80cm/32″ circular knitting needle, and 3mm/US 2.5 40cm/16″ circular knitting needle for cowl or size needed to obtain gauge.

Gauge: 24 sts and 38 rnds in Lace Panel using 3 mm/US 2.5 needles and 2 strands of yarn held together measures 10cm/4″ square. 29 sts and 36 rnds in st st using 3 mm/US 2.5 needles and 2 strands of yarn held together measures 10cm/4″ square.

Notes: The sleeves are knitted first and worked flat to learn the stitch pattern, while the body and the cowl is knitted in the round. The pullover has puffed sleeves, made by increasing each side of the middle Lace Panel. Increasing and decreasing is done between the Lace Panels in reverse stockinette stitch. The sleeves have 2 stitches in reverse stockinette stitch while the body has 5 stitches. Size M and L have additional stitches in reverse stockinette stitch after 6th and 12th Lace Panel.

Designerkollektivet’s Fashion Show

Posted on February 15, 2014 by Linda Marveng

Oslo Trend Fashion Festival is on, and I went to Designerkollektivet‘s Fashion Show at Ingensteds/Nowhere. Designer Tove Klevjer and I had problems finding the venue, so I made sure I asked a passerby for the address, and not the name of the place. 14 of Designerkollektivet’s designers participated in the show organized in co-operation with Oslo Trend, EB Models, Art Complexion Makeup School, Westerdals Høyskole/High school, Ingensteds and Oslo Trend volunteers. Ingensteds was packed and in disco mood, when we arrived just before 7 pm, but we found a good space to stand next to the camera on the stage above the catwalk. My highlights were the stunning wedding gowns by Judith Bech design, HotNok signature pieces, Sorl ved Strand magnificent knitted dresses, and corsets by Bine – Design med etisk pels/Design with ethical fur. You can see all the outfits here: flickr.

The model, wearing a gorgeous wedding gown decorated with feathers by Judith Beck, is on her way up a couple of steps, standing on a pedestal like a breathtaking sculpture for a few seconds before moving on.

Here is one of several captivating corsets made from farmed livestock from Bine – Design with ethical fur.

Two of Sorl ved Strand stunning dresses, both ingeniously constructed by designer Sissel Strand! You could hear the awe when her Mens’ poncho in panels with a blue hood and matching leg warmers came on the catwalk. I was too busy staring to take a photo, but look here: flickr.

The signature dress and bolero from HotNok. Outstanding in a bright red. I was impressed by the models bravely stepping up the high steps in sky-high heels, and managing to keep their balance.

And finally, all the designers came out on the catwalk while we applauded. I left the fashion show inspired, and with a collection of tempting discount vouchers.

Familiens beste

Posted on February 12, 2014 by Linda Marveng

I am delighted that two of my designs were among the best of 2013 Norwegian magazine Familien’s patterns; My Open Triangles Cowl & Wristwarmers plus Trendy Poselue, see my blogpost: /professionally-photographed-open-triangles-cowl-and-slouchy-hat/, hence they have been reprinted into a separate issue, see the cover above. The first pattern is also also available in English on Ravelry. The diagonal triangles with an opening on top makes you think of Egyptian hieroglyphs depicting the pyramids with the sun above. A delightful image for a cowl to warm your neck, or accessorize your dress. Fasten it if you wish, or wear it across one shoulder. Or why not use it double? The cowl and the matching wrist-warmers are knitted in a lovely soft and warm mixture of merino and cotton with a stunning stitch definition. For more details, see: Ravelry. Next on my blog is a report from Designer Kollektivet’s fashion show.

Strikk med raske pinner by Kristin Wiola Ødegård

Posted on February 8, 2014 by Linda Marveng

Knit with speedy knitting needles is a direct translation of Kristin Wiola Ødegård’s first knitting book title recently published by Gyldendal, containing 44 easy and playful patterns. In her preface she writes: “I love large, soft sweaters and jackets that can be worn with anything, hats in cool colors which make a simple outfit exciting, and chunky cowls that do not itch. In Strikk med raske pinner, I have gathered my favorites of lovely knitting garments that can easily be combined with your wardrobe. My vision has been to make a knitting book that can inspire the reader to make simple garments found in the fashion of today.” I have no doubt that is has been a fun project, as Kristin writes, since both her daughters have supported, and assisted her. Ida has been a stunning model, together with 3 others, and Sofie has beautifully photographed the entire book. The original setting; at a garage with its bare brick and concrete walls makes a perfect setting for all the soft knits as well as the borrowed tractor. The book launch was last Saturday, and it was packed with 200 people attending, not wanting to miss the fashion show; the yarn store Nøstet Mitt‘s stand; the opportunity to both see the garments close, and to win prizes such as yarn kits and ready made hats.

This delicate yoked sweater is knitted in Alpaca Mix from Drops in a main color with 5 contrast colors and decorative beads, using a 4.5 mm/US 7. It was the most popular yarn kit donated by Tjorven, the yarn shop, where Kristin works. She is well aware over how much remains most knitters have in their stash, and encourages everyone to play with them to make your own yarn by working several strands at the same time. Why not add another strand when you need to add width instead of increasing? See the glimpse of the red multi coloured dress in the last photo; you start working the skirt from the hip using 2 strands and a 7 mm/US 10.75, add another strand and change to a 10 mm/US 15, then finally add a fourth strand and change to a 15 mm/US 19. A crocheted edge graces the long dress.

Marvelous leaf pattern combined with garter stitch in a chunky yarn gives this poncho with long sleeves, and hat a fabulous stitch definition. Both are knitted in a mole coloured Eskimo from Garnstudio using a 8 mm/US 11 needles. There are numerous other hats to choose from and they proved so popular at the book launch that Nøstet Mitt sold out of Puno Alpakka from Rauma. The yarn is also one of the options for the cowl on the cover.

Kristin designs, and makes clothes too, and decided to make all the clothes for the fashion show on the book launch. She is number four from the right, her daughter Ida is number two from the right. No wonder that Kristin’s second book will be published next year, really! Until then, I suggest you enjoy her first, and learn from the Knitting and Crochet School at the back. You will find more photos here: Gyldendal.

Oriel Ballerina in Made by Me

Posted on February 5, 2014 by Linda Marveng

I have made it into the Norwegian magazine Made By Me, and since it is the first time I am contributing, they have presented me as well as my book. I am delighted. The heading is “Hooked on Knitting”, and the introductory paragraph reads: “Linda Marveng learned to knit as a 10-year old, but many years later, via a detour in business management, and a job as Design Consultant for Rowan, she is finally in her right element. Now she has the great recognition as a designer.” They have included the introduction to my book; and referred to my freelance work for MbyM, my blog and my Ravelry group.

The design they chose was the Oriel Ballerina, my wrap over, stunningly modeled on Francesca Golfetto, photographed by Kim Müller. The delicate teal colour filled my mind with visions of ballerinas in tulle petticoats. Perfect for a ballerina wrap with oriel lace sleeves, and a garter stitch belt to tie one or two times around your waist. With all the focus on the sleeves the body is knitted in stockinette stitch in the divine Zephyr Lace; a mixture of merino and tussah silk. The divine yarn is available at Handweavers Studio in London or can be replaced by Drops Lace by Garnstudio. See the pattern page on Ravelry for more details. The English pattern will be released after test knitting set to begin in mid-February on Ravelry. I look forward to seeing it knitted in different colors and yarns!

Japanese Lace Jacket Released

Posted on February 1, 2014 by Linda Marveng

I have been allowed by my publisher, Cappelen Damm to release two more of my book patterns in English in my Ravelry store, and here is the first; Japanese Lace Jacket, modeled by Francesca Golfetto photographed by Kim Müller. The number of requests for this pattern in English made it an easy choice, as it did for the Lace Top which will follow shortly. I have re-written the pattern into my English style, added video links plus a schematic, and sent it to my tech editor Heather Zoppetti of Stitch Sprouts, to check. I discovered this beautiful Japanse Lace pattern in a stich manual. I have designed a vintage a-line jacket in cream colored Amoretto, a lovely mixture of alpaca and cotton which emphasises the delicate lace pattern. The long puffed sleeves adorn your hands. The pattern is available to buy as a downloadable pdf here: ravelry. Other news this week, is that I have been interviewed by the talented Estonian designer Anna Verschik, and you can read it on her blog: kuduja. I am so thrilled about it!

Size: S (M, L)

Finished measurements: Bust: 90 (94, 99) cm/35.5 (37, 39)” Hip: 100 (104, 109) cm/39.25 (41, 43)” Length: 54 (55.5, 57) cm/21.25 (21.75, 22.5)” Sleeve length: 51.5 cm/20.25″

Yarn: Thomas Kvist Yarns, Amoretto in sh 3110 (45% fine alpaca, 50% cotton and 5% nylon, 100 g, 250m/273 yds, unfortunately now discontinued): 5 (5, 6) skeins; 1100 (1225, 1350) m/1203 (1340, 1476) yds.

Alternative yarns: Rowan Yarns, Wool Cotton (50% merino, 50% cotton, 112 m/123 yds, 50 g). knitrowan Dale Yarns, Lerke (52% merino, 48% cotton, 114 m/125 yds, 50 g). dalegarn Or another Sport/5ply or DK/8ply to match gauge.

Notions: 10 buttons 14 mm/0.5″ (22L) mother of pearl from ‘Perlehuset’, 6 stitch markers, 2 stitch holders or waste yarn and yarn needle. www.perlehusetpaanett.no

Needles: 3 mm/US 2.5 (80cm/32″) circular needle and 3 mm/US 2.5 DPNs. Adjust needle size as needed to match gauge.

Gauge: 23 sts and 28 rows in Japanese Lace measures 10 cm/4″ square. 24 sts and 32 rows in st st measures 10 cm/4″ square.

Notes: Increased sts on the sleeve are knitted as the first 5 sts of the Japanese Lace. When armhole shaping begins, the pattern is changed to the same 5 sts of the Japanese Lace on the back and on the fronts and remaining additional sts are knitted in rev st st. Sleeves are extra long, adjust if you prefer, and worked first to learn the Japanese Lace pattern.

Linda Marveng

Knit wear designer and author

Monthly Archives: February 2014