Thursday 30 January 2014

Julie's Notebook: Irisa Cowl (New Pattern!)

irisa cowl 1

Even if you aren't big on colour trends, it's hard to avoid the Pantone Color of the Year, Radiant Orchid- it's been popping up all over the internet, and by spring, you'll be seeing lots of items in the stores in this color. Suddenly, you might find yourself buying a blouse or a new bag in a shade you didn't even know existed back in 2013.

When it comes to trendy knits, a one-skein project is perfect- it's fun to knit an accessory that gives a nod to what's cool, as well as carry you far beyond it (who knows what the color of the year will be in 2015!).


Tanis Fiber Arts is known for it's amazing colours, and while we don't have a tonal or semi solid that is exactly radiant orchid, Iris fits the bill of being on trend and yet timeless. Those little bright spots are definitely radiant orchid-esque:

irisa cowl 2
 That castle and unicorn are getting in the Radiant Orchid spirit, too! 

I love Iris. It reminds me so much of spring- crocuses and hyacinths beginning to pop up, the rich colours after the bleached out greys of winter. This cowl is the perfect quick knit- a great one skein project for variegated yarns in rich, saturated purples that make us hopeful for spring.

Pattern: Irisa Cowl

Needles: 5mm (US 8)

Yarn: One skein of Tanis Fiber Arts Green Label Aran, in 'Iris'


It can be worn in a single loop, like the top photos, or doubled, for a cozy, keep-the-wind-away look. 

The Irisa Cowl is a very quick and very easy pattern, perfect for busting out of the knitting doldrums and getting a great hit of colour. The variegation in the Iris colourway is highlighted by the simple slipped stitch pattern. I know it won't be spring around here for a little while, but with a lovely colourway like this and a pretty new cowl to keep me warm, I can definitely stand the wait.