Results tagged “linen yarn” from Fabric.com Blog

Among the more interesting and yet challenging knitting stitches is the dropped stitch. It is no interesting because of the ladder effect it creates. I deem it challenging because dropping a stitch is ingrained into a knitter's head from birth as a central wrong and big mistake, yet here we ask you to do it with alacrity. However, like most knitting techniques we have explored here, it just takes a bit of courage (just a teeny bit), some hope, and practice.

Vertical Dropped Stitches (vertical ladders):

The vertical dropped stitch is the easiest but also the most cringe worthy. Your first row is your foundation and insurance that your dropped stitches won't go wrong. I cast on 20 Sts. My first row was a purl row so my increases were Purl into the front and back (Pf&b). Your vertical ladders will trade places with the 'b' of the Pf&b.  
Foundation Row (wrong side): P 1, Pf&b, *P4, Pf&b; repeat to last 3 sts, P3.

Continue in Stockinette until your piece is as long as you like but before you bind off, on the wrong side: P2, drop 1, *P5, drop 1; repeat to last 3 sts, P3. Bind off. Pull out your dropped stitches all the way down to the cast on row. Don't worry because you are pulling out an increase the cast on row will be secured by the original stitches.

Horizontal Dropped Stitches (horizontal ladders):

Horizontal stitches are also dropped increase but they are created and dropped with every 2 rows, not just at the foundation.

Cast on 20 Sts.

R1: *K1, Yo (twice); repeat to last st, k1

R2: *K1, drop both yarn overs; repeat to last st, k1

R3& 4: knit

Repeat row 1-4 until piece is desired length. The ladders are created by the dropped double yo and create stripes of dropped stitches.

Experiment with your own dropped stitch pattern. The created airy design is perfect for warm weather projects. Worked in simple linen or cotton blends will not only add a touch of color and softness but also add texture to a simple summer dress.  

As much as I look forward to spring, in my neck of the woods it comes with stiff breezes and biting mornings. You need a lovely scarf to take the edge off the changing of the seasons in a lightweight fiber that works in warmer weather or can fit in your bag when temperatures climb in the middle of the day. This simple but elegant Ruffle Scarf knit in a cotton/linen blend creates the perfect spring scarf. The neutral, subtle colors blend well with dark, jewel tones of winter and the brighter shades of spring. I recommend doubling the yarn to make this a quick knit as well as blending the variegated color in the yarn. I started the 2 strands at different ends of the ball, mismatching the colors (One ball started with pink and the other with green). I wanted to swirl the colors together so there would be an even distribution of the variegation.

The finished scarf is about 6 ft long and a gorgeous length of ruffle goodness and deliciously soft. The weight is just right to swag around your neck and add a bit of warmth or you can double or triple the scarf and couple with a jacket for blustery days and nights. This scarf works well with a weekend, casual outfit or can be paired with a suit or dress for a weekday or a swing coat and heels for evening. It is very functional and stylish.

I loved making it despite the upwards of 600 sts at the end. It was a nice relaxing garter stitch that worked well while sitting outside with the little one. Here's what you will need to make your own:

2 skeins of Berroco Linsey (64% cotton, 36% Linen) in Vineyard color way.

Size 11 36 in. circular needles

Tapestry needle

With the yarn doubled, cast on 150 Sts (I used backwards cast on). Do not join for knitting in the round.

Knit 2 rows,

R3:  *kf&b, k1; repeat from * to end of round (300 sts)

R4 & 5: Knit

R6: Repeat R3 (600 sts)

R7: Knit

R8: Bind off

Weave in your ends and enjoy your luxurious scarf! I love to pair mine with my Favorite Things Cute Skirt and Denim jacket.