Friday, June 3, 2011

New Knitting Pattern - Sothia


At last, my newest knitting pattern design from Robin Ulrich Studio, Sothia, is ready to greet the world!  This shawl/ shawlette's (is there an official distinction?) simple garter stitch, textured triangle is knit from the top down in cloud-light, fingering weight tosh merino light yarn from madelinetosh.  

Bold, graphically contrasting colors or the subtle textural stripes of tonal solids look equally well in this design knit in such a lovely, hand-dyed yarn.  The main, striped version is knit in two grey tones - the lighter colorway is "silver fox", and the darker is "tern".


Colorway "calligraphy," a rich combination of neutrals in both warm and cool shades is a popular choice. 


Wider than it is tall, Sothia's base triangle is neatly defined by an eyelet row and finished with a deep ruffle, giving the shawl exquisite drape and an easy flow around the shoulders.  

 
 


The combination of whisper-light yarn, easily worked stitches, and versatile 'wearability' provide soothing comfort both during knitting and afterwards through many a hectic day.

madelinetosh (this yarn company likes to use lower case for their names) employs multiple applications of various glaze colors to achieve a layered effect that is quite stunning.  I did a review of this yarn in an earlier post here.

Sothia is the first of a set of two 'sister' shawl patterns, the second will be released at a later date this summer after I finish up a couple of other projects.  The second pattern is finished but I will have it thoroughly test knit as well, so stay tuned to this page for announcements about that version.  

I had such a nice time knitting these shawls that I was kind of sad when they were done, as this design provides the simple, easy knitting I love to relax with in the evening or when I'm knitting around others.  Perhaps this design would make an excellent prayer shawl for a loved one, or meditative project for when you just need a break from complication - either in knitting or life itself.


I've been totally overwhelmed by the response from blog readers and Ravelers alike, asking when the pattern would be ready!  Wow.  THANK YOU very much everyone for the kind words, enthusiasm and anticipation for this new design, I truly appreciate it.  

And many, many thanks to my wonderful test knitters Diana, Emily, Josefina, Jessica, Becky, Melanie, Wiktoria, Michele, and Gillian.  You ladies did an outstanding job not only with your own shawls, but also with the feedback that helps me make this pattern more thorough, error-free and easy to follow!   I've enjoyed working with all of you - some old friends returning from previous test knits, and some new friends as well. 

Sothia is now available as both a Ravelry page download and as a download here on my blog.  Thanks again everyone, and peace, blessings and happy knitting to you!

9 comments:

  1. Dear Robin,
    Congratulations, this shawl will become an "bestseller of knitting".
    Anett

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  2. Gongrats! Love the natural colors and the cozy feel of this shawl. Maybe someday, I'll make it too.

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  3. I just LOVE this new pattern! You did a wonderful job with it. Congrats! :)

    -Lina
    photoknitdog.com

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  4. Anett, Lidia and Lina - thank you all so very much for your nice comments - it has been a long week, but I am very happy to have been able to finally get this pattern up! ;))

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  5. I have been eagerly waiting for your shawl design to come out. It is wonderful. Congratulations!

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  6. Isabelle, thank you so much for the lovely comment! :)

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  7. Nice design and good idea of frill

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