Today we want to talk about a brand new (like, SMOKING-hot-off-the-press) book called Wanderlust- 46 Modern Knits For Bohemian Style, by Tanis Gray. Each pattern in the book is knit using Cascade Longwood, a beautiful, aran weight, 100% superwash merino wool, available in a vast range of colours.
This publication is a compilation of patterns from a variety of designers, carefully curated by Tanis herself. Tanis has an impressive design repertoire and has contributed several designs of her own to this book. If you aren’t familiar with her or her work, be sure to check out her website, and get to know her.
This book is neatly organized in the table of contents into various sections as follows- Scarves and Wraps, Cowls and Shawls, Hats, Mittens and Wristers, Matching Sets, and finally, Sweaters. Each section offers a little something for everyone. For men, for woman, for beginners, or for seasoned knitters. The sections are clean and straightforward, so there is no fussing about when the itch to knit sets in.
So let’s look at a few patterns. Shall we?
First up, we have The Brubaker Cowl, designed by Mindy Wilkes.This cowl uses only two balls of Longwood, and is a straightforward, but effective pattern that is clearly explained in the book. Much like cables, this stitch pattern looks very impressive, and yet is very simple to achieve. A combination of twisted stitches, 2×2 rib… and VOILA! You have a cushy cowl to curl up in.
Then, there is this hat… OH! This HAT! I must confess, this wins for my absolute favorite project in the entire book. I just… LOVE it. This hat is called Karite and was designed by Svetlana Volkova. I feel as though the book says it best when describing this hat, so I shall just quote the book verbatim for you on this one. Mostly because… I am too speechless to aptly describe my love for it.
“A simple ribbing evolves into faux cables (requiring no cable needle) that create waves on top of a garter-stitch hat. The ‘waves’ converge at the top of the hat in a radiating flower shape”.
So, there you have it.
A beautiful hat, suited for either men, or women. Faux cables. Garter stitch. One ball of yarn. Seamless. It’s simply perfect.
The next pattern that spoke to us, were these fabulous mittens. Motif Mittens by Angela Hahn are plain stocking stitch throughout the majority of the project, with a glorious cable that wraps around the outside edge. No chance of suffering from “Second Mitten Syndrome” here! Those cables are bound to maintain your interest. Using only one ball of Longwood, these should whip up in no time- not to mention, be perfect for anybody’s budget!
And finally, as promised, one of seven sweaters from the book. This aptly named sweater, Cowl Neck Raglan by Isabell Kraemer delivers exactly what the name promises. This beautiful sweater is classic, while staying right on trend. Not an easy task! With a generous cowl neck, flattering raglan sleeves and a longer length to ensure that your lower back stays toasty, it’s got you covered. Great for all ages, as well as for dressing up, and dressing down. We love the idea of this in our wardrobe… don’t you?
So there you have it dear knitters. We are sure that you will love this book, so give your local yarn shop a call! Ask them if they will be getting this book in (reminder- it won’t be available until February), and then get your name on the wait list.
Because it’s definitely one worth waiting for.
Happy knitting!