Luggala Design Process

Posted on February 12, 2013 by knitahedron

Way back in November 2012, I was privileged to be included in the Twist Collective Winter 2012 issue. My design was ‘Luggala’, a long-line jumper / sweater / pullover with a lacy cowl neck and kangaroo pocket.

A few years ago when I was keen to start knitting again, but tired of unflattering, outdated patterns, I did an internet search for things like ‘modern knitting patterns’ or ‘trendy knitting patterns’ or something similarly cheesy. This was when I came across Twist and specifically, their Fall 2009 issue. And I fell in love. The ‘Bus Stop‘ story completely won my heart and it wasn’t long before Ysolda’s Vine Yoke Cardigan was on my needles. I had found an up-to-date, fashionable, beautiful source of knitting patterns! Yay!

So when I decided to give designing a go, I knew exactly where I wanted to start – Twist! Aim high, I thought! When I submitted my design proposal back in April 2012, I had never designed anything before, let alone prepare a submission. I can’t tell you how excited I was when I found out it had been accepted and then to finally see it in print last November.

I wanted to create a cosy Winter garment that would keep the wearer warm without being to bulky or heavy. So I designed a fitted, slightly long length jumper. Raglan sleeves, because they’re may favourite and always flattering. To keep it warm and cosy, I added a cowl neck, but in lace, to keep it light and feminine.

The final touch, to make it a little bit different and fun, was the kangaroo or hoodie style pocket. I added this to have a high of casual, comfy styling, but again it’s knit in lace to keep things light and feminine.

In the submission sketch, I just drew it simply with skinny jeans / leggings, which is how Twist styled it too in the end! I’m no fashion artist and I’ll let you in on my secret tool – Fashionary templates.

I hope you like Luggala which can be bought directly from Twist Collective.

Finally, a note on the name. ‘Luggala’ is a place in Co. Wicklow, Ireland, where I spent many Summers as a child. Enjoy a few pics. Lots more on Flickr.

New Pattern! ‘Maturin’ Sweater

Posted on February 6, 2013 by knitahedron

I’ve just released a new pattern – ‘Maturin‘ – a slim-fitting, raglan sleeved, crew necked jumper / sweater for men. (Although I think it would look pretty good on women too – must try it on and take some pics!)

Knit in double knitting weight yarn and in the round from the bottom up to the armholes and then flat. To add a bit of interest the raglan seams are sewn inside out to make a feature of them. They’re also highlighted with a band of garter stitches each side of the seam.

The body is a little longer than men’s jumpers usually are to keep out the drafts and stop it from riding up.

I this designed this specifically for my husband who owns many raglan sleeved crew necks, but they are often too small in the shoulders or too short in the body for him. Most shop bought jumpers that fit him well on the shoulders tend to be too baggy in the body for his taste.

I think the fit looks modern without being super-skinny-tight.

Available to download now on Ravelry!

Twist Collective Winter 2012

Posted on November 5, 2012 by knitahedron

The Winter 2012 issue of the ever beautiful Twist Collective is due to be published very soon. The list of designers is now up on Ravelry and I am so excited to be included! My jumper will appear alongside designs by some of the serious heavyweights of the knitting world.

Stay tuned for more details!

© Áine Ryan and knitahedron.com, 2012. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blog’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Áine Ryan and knitahedron.com with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.

knitahedron

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