Category Archives: Quince & Company Kestrel

NEW Quince & Co Coloree, Fresia & Kama

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Coloree

Coloree is a fantastic blend of bold color blocks and sweet little details. Knit with fingering weight Quince & Co Sparrow, knitters of all levels will enjoy the luxurious drape and softness of this summer-ready tank. We envision a multitude of color combinations for Coloree—from bold and energetic to soft and soothing, and everything in between!

SEE OUR FAVOURITE PROJECTS FOR SPARROW

Construction

Tank is worked in one piece, flat, from top-down. Yoke is shaped with side increases. Lower body is worked flat and buttons down the left side. I-cord edges worked at the armholes and neckline create delicate finishing. Shoulders are cast on using a provisional cast on and then front and back necklines are shaped by increasing sts with the cable cast on.

Size

  • Bust circumference: 36 (39½, 44, 47½, 51¾) (56, 59½, 63¾, 68)” [91.5 (100.5, 112, 120.5, 131.5) (142, 151, 162, 172.5) cm]
  • Sample is shown in size 39½” [100.5 cm] on a 34″ [86.5 cm], 5’9″ [175.5 cm] tall model (5½” [14 cm] positive ease) 
  • Suggested ease: positive 0–5½” [0–14 cm]

Materials

Skills

Invisible provisional cast on, knitted on cast on, i-cord, intarsia techniques (links provided); increasing, decreasing.

SEE OUR CURATED LIST OF KNITTING SKILLS 

Gauge

23 sts and 32 rows = 4″ [10 cm] in St st with larger needles, after blocking.

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Fresia

Fresia is a classic summer staple that’s sure to fly off your needles! Fresia’s understated silhouette gives way to intricate side panels, for the perfect everyday tank you’ll be reaching for to layer with outfits. Knit in handkerchief-soft Quince & Co Sparrow, we can’t wait to see which color you choose for your Fresia!

SEE OUR FAVOURITE PROJECTS FOR SPARROW

Construction

The hem of the tank is worked flat in two pieces from the bottom up and then joined to work the body in the round to the armholes. The body is then split and the front and back are worked flat, shaping the armholes and the neck, and then the shoulders are seamed using kitchener stitch.

Size

  • Bust circumference: 36¾ (39¾, 43¼, 46¼, 49¼, 52¼) (55, 58, 61, 64, 67)” [93.5 (101, 110, 117.5, 125, 132.5) (139.5, 147.5, 155, 162.5, 170) cm]
  • Sample shown in size 36¾” [93.5 cm] on a 34″ [86.5 cm], 5’9″ [175.5 cm] tall model (2¾” [7 cm] positive ease)
  • Suggested ease: positive 2–3″ [5–8 cm]

Materials

Skills

German twisted cast on, knitted and cable cast on, wrap-and-turn short rows, picking up sts, Kitchener stitch, sewn bind off (links provided); increasing, decreasing, working in the round. Charts and line-by-line instructions included.

SEE OUR CURATED LIST OF KNITTING SKILLS 

Gauge

27 sts and 37 rows = 4″ [10 cm] in Stockinette stitch knit flat, after blocking.

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Kama

Delicate and flowing, this camisole balances meditative stockinette with compelling stitchwork. Knit in Quince & Co Kestrel , we love how this design leans into this linen yarn’s best qualities: its incredible drape, soothing sheen, and unique texture. Looking for a pattern that knits up quickly and is perfect for layering? Kama has you covered!

Yarn

Quince & Co Kestrel is a new take on a simple linen yarn. Quince and Co. took the same Belgium-grown organic linen that they use in their little Sparrow and spun it this time in a ribbon structure (actually its a ‘chainette’ – a small knitted tube). Its flat surface adds a slight texture to simple knit and purl stitches. But we think the best thing about it is its incredible drape. Like all things linen, woven or knitted, Kestrel only gets better as you wash and wear it.

SEE OUR FAVOURITE PROJECTS WITH KESTREL

Construction

This camisole is worked in one piece from the bottom-up. Body is shaped first by changing needle sizes, then with side decreases. I-cord edges worked at the armholes and neckline create delicate straps.

Size

  • Finished Bust: 34 (38, 42, 45, 49) (53, 57, 61, 65, 69)” [86.5 (96.5, 106.5, 114.5, 124.5) (134.5, 145, 155, 165, 175.5) cm]
  • Shown in size 38″ [96.5 cm] on a 34″ [86.5 cm], 5’9″ [175.5 cm] tall model (4″ [10 cm] positive ease)
  • Suggested ease: positive 0–4″ [0–10 cm]

Materials

Skills

German twisted cast on, i-cord, kitchener stitch (links provided); increasing, decreasing, working in the round. Charts and line-by-line instructions included.

SEE OUR CURATED LIST OF KNITTING SKILLS 

Gauge

16 sts and 26 rows = 4″ [10 cm] in Stockinette stitch with needles sized for main body, after blocking.

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PROJECT Fountaingrove

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Fountaingrove

Fountaingrove is the perfect cast-on to get you ready for the warm season to come. The pretty lace panel is simple and effective. It’s made with Quince & Co Kestrel, an aran weight 100% organic linen yarn that’s been a summer staple here for years! The linen provised gorgeous stitch definition, unparalleled drape, and cool comfort perfect for warm weather.

SEE OUR FAVOURITE PROJECTS WITH QUINCE & CO KESTREL

Construction

Fountaingrove is worked in the round from the bottom up to the underarms. Front and back yokes are worked flat.

Size

  • Bust Circumference: 33½ (36¼, 39, 42) (44¾, 47½, 50¼, 53¼) (56, 58¾, 61¾, 64½)” [85 (92, 99, 106.5) (113.5, 120.5, 127.5, 135.5) (142, 149, 157, 164) cm] 
  • Shown in size 42″ [106.5 cm] on a 39″ [99 cm], 5’7″ [170 cm] tall model (3″ [7.5 cm] positive ease) 
  • Suggested ease: positive 0–3″ [0–7.5 cm]

Materials

Skills

Long tail cast-on, three-needle bind off (links provided); increasing, decreasing, working in the round. Charts and line-by-line instructions included.

SEE OUR CURATED LIST OF KNITTING SKILLS 

Gauge

17 sts and 25 rows = 4″ [10 cm] in Stockinette stitch, after blocking

FINISHED PROJECT Lovenote in Quince + Co Kestrel

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Lovenote

I made a spring/autumn Lovenote in the spring of 2020 and I liked it so much I decided to make another summer version with one of my favourite summer yarns, Quince & Co Kestrel (ON SALE to SEPT 6). I let this project languish half-finished all winter, and it’s definitely a regret because it ended up turning out so well. It’s so comfortable and easy to wear that it’s joined the ranks of my favourite store sweaters. I pop it on over a cami and summer pants and it’s my uniform. I wouldn’t mind another, super cropped version to wear over dresses, but I’ll let you guys have first pick of the colours.

Gruau’s best “Blue Steel“.

Notes

  • We made a size Adult XS (38.5″ bust). Before blocking it measured 36″ at the bust, and after blocking it was 40″. See our project notes HERE.
  • Linen is VERY stretchy, consider going down one or two sizes (we went down one and we could have easily gown down another)
  • Linen is softens up and loosens up COMPLETELY in the wash. It has zero structure and drapes gorgeously.
  • Quince & Co Kestrel is machine washable: machine wash on cold in a delicate bag. Machine dry on cool in delicate bag. Lay flat to dry if still damp.
  • If you don’t already have the needles, Interchangeable needles are a great option for projects like this one that are knit in the round and require a bunch of different needle lengths. The only hitch is that to make a 16″ length needle you’ll need the shorter 3.5″ to 4″ tips.

Size

  • 0-6mo (6-12mo, 1-2yr, 2-4yr, 4-6yr, 6-8yr, 8-10yr, Adult XS, S, M, L, XL-XXL, 3XL-4XL, 5XL)
  • Finished Chest Measurement: 24.5 (25.5, 26.5, 28.6, 30.5, 32.5, 34.5, 38.5, 41.5, 44.5, 48.5, 56.5, 66.5, 72.5”)
  • We made a size Adult XS (38.5″ bust). Before blocking it measured 36″ at the bust, and after blocking it was 40″. See our project notes HERE.
  • Linen is VERY stretchy, consider going down one or two sizes (we wen’t down one and we could have easily gown down another)

Yarn

Quince & Co Kestrel (25% OFF until SEPT 6)

  • Cropped length: 3 (3, 4, 4, 5, 6, 6, 8, 8, 9, 10, 12, 17) skeins
  • Regular length: 3 (4, 4, 5, 6, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 12, 14, 17, 19) skeins
  • Our sample is size Adult XS and we used 7 skeins: after blocking it is 40″. See our project notes HERE.

Other Materials

Gruau’s shows off his “Magnum“.

P.S.

Photography was with the bird was a little bit more challenging, but so much fun! From now on I’m going to try to take pictures with him

NEW FREE PATTERN The Cottage Wrap

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Cottage Wrap

This simple wrap combines two fundamentals of knitting to create a reversible, welted texture: stocking stitch and reverse stocking. It is knitted on the bias, increasing in width as you go, so you can make it any size you like and use any tension of yarn you like – it’s a great stash-buster! The pattern may look long and complicated, but it isn’t, it’s just written with detail for inexperienced knitters and people with short attention spans. The pattern repeat is long, so a chart is included to guide you and help you keep track of where you are in the pattern. You can use any yarn you like, which makes it a great stash buster (see amounts below).

Its called the cottage wrap because it’s a great thing to wrap around your shoulders on a cool night, but maybe especially at the cottage. It is a freebie, from us to you. Please enjoy this pattern as we all emerge from our nests with joy and trepidation.

Orange Cottage Wrap

Size

  • Depends on your yarn and the size you desire
  • approx 82”/205cm long (from tip to tip) & 20”/50cm deep (at longest point)

Yarns

The amount of yarn you use is flexible and depends on the type of fibre you choose and the thickness of the yarn – you’ll probably need 2 scarves worth of yarn. Yarns that are knit as a looser fabric will go further, yarns knit tighter may require some extra, especially bulky to super bulky weight yarns. Use a needle size that works for your yarn. 

General Yardage Requirements

  • 3sts/inch – 550m/610yds
  • 3.5sts/inch – 690m/755 yds
  • 4 sts/inch – 825m/905 yds
  • 4.5 sts/inch – 915m/1005 yds
  • 5 sts/inch – 1000m/1100 yds
  • 5.5 sts/inch – 1100m/1200 yds
  • 6 sts/inch – 1185m/1300 yds
  • 6.5 sts/inch: 1260m/1370yds
  • 7 sts/inch – 1275m/1400 yds

Red Cottage Wrap

Notions

Lastly ….

This pattern has been percolating for a long time … it was a victim of a bit of “scope-creep“, the result of some underlying issues with perfectionism (and the sundry crud that that springs from). I’d like to say thank you to my sample knitters Tessa and Adrienne, who made the wraps in the pictures and helped edit the pattern. Thank you to Erica, Noel and Rosie for just putting up with me. Thanks to Judit who helps me clear the blocks. Thanks also go to everyone whose been so patient and waited for me to finish the pattern. This pattern was far from being my dissertation and definitely not my life’s work, but it was a bit of an albatross. I’d like to raise a toast to letting go of our tethers and stretching our wings: may it be the first of many similar experiences for us all. In the words of my then eight year old nice: “You watch this girl go!”

~ Haley

NEW SUMMER PROJECTS On Our Website

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Our Treat Yourself to Something Nice Sale, on to June 19th, 11:59pm!

Projects

We’ve been uploading all kinds of summer project ideas to our website, all the project ideas are at the top of our main menu, under PROJECTS, which you can open up and find sub-groups. We always try to make things easy and spell out exactly how much yarn you’ll need for your size, what other materials you’ll need, link to the pattern on Ravelry, and when we can list any necessary skills.

Skills

We’ve also created some new skills pages with links to great free online tutorials (mostly video) and resources – all are listed under SKILLS in our main menu. We’ll keep adding to these resource pages as we find more to share. If you have a resource you love please don’t hesitate to contact us and share it!

Photo: Fibre Co

Irish Sea

Irish Sea is a super-wearable triangle shawl with a beautiful drape and fluidity. The crisp stitch definition from Meadow emphasises the rhythmic garter stitch and delicate lace as it travels down the edge of the shawl. The size can be adjusted, according to your taste, by knitting more or less repeats.

When you purchase Fibre Co. Meadow for this project from us, please leave a note at check-out or send us an email and we can send you the pattern for FREE!

Size

  • S (L)
  • Wingspan along top edge: 160 (203) cm or 63 (80)” 
  • Depth: 46 (63) cm or 18 (25) inches 

Materials

Fibre Co. Meadow is 15% off until June 19th, 11:59pm

Photo: Fibre Co

Seacote

Simple lace panels fade into a meditative garter stitch, making our versatile Seacote shawl look different every time you wear it! Suitable for novices in short-row shaping and lace, this romantic shawl is knitted in Meadow and shaped using increases on every row. The pretty edging is knitted on at the end.

When you purchase Fibre Co. Meadow for this project from us, please leave a note at check-out or send us an email and we can send you the pattern for FREE!

Size

  • Wingspan across top edge: 211 cm or 83″
  • Depth: 56 cm or 22″

Materials

Fibre Co. Meadow is 15% off until June 19th, 11:59pm

Photo: Amanda Stevenson Lupke

CEPA

CEPA is a simple chevron wrap, and makes a great project for newer knitters, or more experienced knitters who don’t currently have the bandwidth for a challenging project. Meadow blooms and grows after blocking, so please wash your swatch for an accurate gauge measurement. Designed by Grace Anna Farrow, photography by Amanda Stevenson Lupke.

Fibre Co. Meadow is 15% off until June 19th, 11:59pm

Size

  • 23” wide x 68” long

Materials

Skills

Knitting, purling, increasing, decreasing.

Photo: Amanda Stevenson Lupke

Twinleaf

Twinleaf is a generously sized garter stitch wrap that can be work over your shoulders or as a scarf. It’s designed to use most of 2 skeins of the MC, and the sample as shown is correct in the amounts given in the pattern. Slight variation in row or stitch gauge, or an excessively large gauge swatch may require a 3rd skein. FYI, Fibre Co Meadow blooms and grows after blocking, so please wash your swatch for an accurate gauge measurement. Designed by Grace Anna Farrow, photography by Amanda Stevenson Lupke.

Fibre Co. Meadow is 15% off until June 19th, 11:59pm

Size

  • 28” at widest point
  • 62” Length

Materials

Skills

Overland

I love this shawl, I think the texture is so cool … the materials complement the design so perfectly!

With a dramatic openwork pattern reminiscent of honeycomb, Overland is a modern, go-with-everything piece you can take on all of your summer travels. This striking, asymmetrical triangular shawl is worked from one point, with increases along the top edge. Written in two sizes and featuring interchangeable charts, Ruth Nguyen’s clever design allows you to create a custom shawl that is truly one-of-a-kind. (shown in smaller size)

Quince & Co Kestrel is 15% off until June 19th, 11:59pm

Construction
Triangular shawl is worked sideways in one piece from left point to wide left edge. Modular cable and lace patterns can be worked interchangeably for several different looks.

Size

  • S(L)
  • Wingspan: 60 (82)” [152.5 (208.5) cm] wingspan
  • Depth at centre: 23 (40)” [58.5 (101.5) cm]
  • Shown in size 60″ [58.5 cm] size on a 34″ [86.5 cm], 5′ 9½” [176.5 cm] tall model

Materials

Skills

Backward loop cast on, cables with and without a cable needle, Jeny’s surprisingly stretchy bind-off, (links provided); increasing, decreasing. Charts and line-by-line instructions included. See our curated list of Knitting Skills for extra tutorials. 

Askeli

Hanna Maciejewska’s delicate take on a classic summer tee has us itching to cast on. Akseli’s zig-zagging lace motifs encircle the hem and meander partway up the body like a rising ocean tide, giving this elegant tee a fresh and modern look. Akseli is worked from the top down seamlessly, for easy fitting and no-fuss finishing. With its straightforward construction and satisfying details, Akseli is summertime knitting at its finest.

Quince & Co Kestrel is 15% off until June 19th, 11:59pm

Construction

Tee is worked from the top down, worked flat through the neckline and upper body shaping, then worked in the round for the lower body. Short dolman sleeves are shaped with short rows and decreases.

Size

  • Bust Circumference: 36½ (41, 45½, 50, 54½) (59, 63½, 68, 72½)” [92.5 (104, 115.5, 127, 138.5) (150, 161.5, 172.5, 184) cm]
  • Sample shown in size 41″ [104 cm] on a 34″ [86.5 cm], 5′ 9½” [176.5 cm] tall model (7″ [18 cm] positive ease)
  • Suggested 6½ – 8½” [16.5 – 21.5 cm] positive ease

Materials

Skills

Long-tail cast on, backward loop cast on, picking up stitches, German short rows, Jeny’s surprisingly stretchy bind off (links provided); increasing, decreasing, knitting in the round. Charts and line-by-line instructions included (see our knitting techniques page for curated tutorials).

NEW PROJECTS Quince & Co Kestrel 2021

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Quince & Co Kestrel is part of our Treat Yourself to Something Nice Sale, on to June 19th!

Konti

Simple yet striking, Konti’s zig-zagging lace pattern calls to mind rippling currents in a swift-moving stream. Worked seamlessly from the top down, this pullover’s exceptionally clean construction and minimal finishing allow the lace motif and Quince & Co Kestrel’s fluid drape to take centre stage. Shown here in colourway Lira, a warm and neutral earth tone, we think Konti would look equally stunning in a bright jewel tone like Rosehip or Bordeaux.

Construction

Sweater is worked from the top down, worked flat through the neckline and upper body shaping, then worked in the round for the lower body. Sleeves are picked up around the armholes, shaped with German short rows, and worked in the round.

Size

  • Bust Circumference: 48¾ (53½, 57¼, 59, 62¾) (67½, 70¼, 75, 78¾)” [124 (136, 145.5, 150, 159.5) (171.5, 178.5, 190.5, 200) cm]
  • Shown in size 53½” [136 cm] on a 34″ [86.5 cm], 5′ 9½” [176.5 cm] tall model (19.5″ [49.5 cm] positive ease)
  • Suggested 16–20″ [40.5–51 cm] positive ease

Materials

Skills

Long-tail cast on, cable cast on, backward loop cast on, picking up stitches, German short rows, Jeny’s surprisingly stretchy bind off (links provided); increasing, decreasing, knitting in the round. Charts and line-by-line instructions included (see our knitting techniques page for curated tutorials).

Holderness

Cassie LaFollette’s Holderness elevates a simple summer tank into a work of art! Knit in the round from the bottom up, Holderness begins with a deep, folded hem and features a tidy i-cord bind off at the underarms and neckline. Easy-to-work cables create charming braided straps for a delicate and polished finish. Holderness’s thoughtful construction combined with Kestrel’s fluid drape create a timeless piece that is breezy and effortless to wear. You’ll reach for this tank again and again.

Construction

Tank is worked in the round from the bottom up, then separated at the underarms. The body includes a folded hem. Underarms and neckline are shaped by a staggered i-cord bind off. The braided straps are achieved using simple 2-over-2 cables.

Size

  • Bust Circumference: 32¾ (37¼, 40¾, 45¼, 48¾) (53¼, 56¾, 61¼, 64¾, 69¼)” [83.5 (94.5, 103.5, 115, 124) (135.5, 144.5, 155.5, 164.5, 176) cm]
  • Shown in size 37¼” (94.5 cm) on a 34″ [86.5 cm], 5′ 9½” [176.5 cm] tall model (3¼” [8 cm] positive ease)
  • Suggested 3¼” (8 cm) positive ease

Materials

Skills

Long-tail cast on, invisible provisional cast on, cables with and without a cable needle, Meg Swansen’s speedy i-cord bind off, grafting (Kitchener stitch), (links provided); decreasing, knitting in the round (see our knitting techniques page for curated tutorials).

PROJECTS Kestrel Lace

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Quince & Co Kestrel is 15% Off until June 19th!

Quince & Co Kestrel has been a customer favourite for years … good things never go out of style. It’s an aran weight, organic linen, so it knits up quickly and easily. It’s machine washable, perfect for warm-weather garments. It makes beautiful, simple stocking stitch fabric, but it also knits up as a stunning lace. Quince & Co Kestrel is 15% Off until June 19th

Kestrel Patterns Featuring Lace

Hacienda

Hacienda is a modular knitted stole with a lovely drape and texture. The unique construction of Kestrel is a perfect fit for Bristol’s unique and fearless sense of design. All of these elements come together beautifully in this fun to knit, and fun to wear, piece.

The wrap is designed with Quince & Co Kestrel, an extremely versatile, aran weight 100% organic linen (I don’t know if you get more environmentally without hugging a tree). It knits beautifully, easily and fast, it’s machine washable (in a delicate bag), and softens up COMPLETELY after washing. If you want to maintain the crispness in the picture above you’ll need to wash by hand, lay flat to dry, and press (a little spritz of Soak Flatter won’t hurt either). Because of the textile, this wrap is great for cooler summer nights, people who winter in a warmer climate, or for anyone who can’t wear wool and wants something really nice.

Size

14½” [37 cm] wide and 60″ [152.5 cm] long

Materials

Skills

Cable cast on, picking up stitches (links provided); increasing, decreasing. Construction diagram included.

Fernwood

Fernwood is a pretty tank with an elegant, scalloped lace edge. Designed with Quince & Co Kestrel and 6mm/US10 needles, it’ll whip up quickly, so you can wear it all summer!

Size

  • 31(33, 35, 37, 39, 41.5, 44, 46.5, 49, 52, 55, 58, 61, 62.5, 64, 66, 69.5, 73)” or 78.5 (84, 89, 94, 99, 105.5, 112, 118, 124.5, 132, 139.5, 147.5, 155, 159, 162.5, 167.5, 176.5, 185.5) cm
  • Intended to be work with -2 to +2”/-5 to + 5 cm positive ease
  • Linen is VERY stretchy, especially after being washed. Consider going down a size.

Materials

Mira

Mira is an open tee is a great layering piece for summer. The oversized shape and relaxed gauge aim for maximum drape, which is then compounded by eyelets and garter stitch. There’s very little shaping in this piece, making for a relaxing knit. The fit is very oversized and the tension is loose, but if you want something a bit smaller and firmer try going down in needle size to a 5mm/US8 or 5.5mm/US9.

Size

  • Bust Circumference: 54 (60¾, 66, 72¾)” or 137 (154.5, 167.5, 185) cm
  • Shown in size 54″ [137 cm] on a 34″ [86.5 cm] on a 5’8″ [172.5 cm] tall model with 20″ [51 cm] positive ease
  • Designed to be worn with 16-24″ [40-60 cm] positive ease

Materials

Skills

Long-tail cast on, sloped bind off, cable cast on, three-needle bind off (links provided); increasing, decreasing. Charts and line-by-line instructions included.

Sandshore

Sandshore is a seamless cardigan worked from the top down. A clean mesh lace forms an intersection down the back, set slightly asymmetrically for interest. The Kestrel knits up quickly and is a smooth, dry summer yarn. I’ve found Kestrel is extremely stretchy knit at this tension, consider going down one or two sizes in the pattern.

Size

  • 31 (35, 39, 43, 47, 51, 55, 59, 63, 67)” or 79 (89, 99, 109, 119, 129, 139, 150, 160, 170) cm

Materials

PROJECT Seguin

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Seguin

Straight off, let’s acknowledge that Seguin is not a design for the chestier ladies. I think it’s important to value all bodies, and some of those bodies look really pretty with a bit of an accent in front. I also like the ‘smocking detail’ (it isn’t really smocking), it’s just interesting and a cool texture. I don’t think it would be hard to omit the ruffle and just keep the slipped stitch cable rib. Seguin is made with Quince & Co Sparrow, but if you like the aesthetic but want a thicker yarn that knits faster try Merrifield, made with Quince & Co Kestrel and 6.5mm/US10.5 needles … isn’t that nice of them?

Size

  • Finished Bust: 32½ (36¼, 40, 43¾, 47½, 51½, 55¼, 59, 62¾)” [82.5 (92, 101.5, 111, 120.5, 131, 140.5, 150, 159.5) cm]
  • Shown in size 36¼” / 92 cm on a 34” / 86.5 cm, 5’5” / 165 cm tall model (2 1⁄4” / 6 cm positive ease)

Materials

  • Quince & Co Sparrow: 6 (6, 7, 7, 8, 9, 10, 10, 11) skeins
  • 3.75mm/US5 – 16″ circular needles
  • 4mm/US6 – 24″ circular needles
  • 4mm/US6 – 32″ circular needles
  • Pattern

PROJECT Popham Crochet Bag

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Popham in Quince & Co Sparrow

Popham

Quince & Co Sparrow Linen is finally restocked just in time for the good weather! And it’s a good thing, because I seem to have reached maximum pandemic and my brain doesn’t seem to want to work good. If you are in the same boat, Popham is a nice little crochet bag (I know the crocheters are always jonesing for pretty projects), ready for you to go hit the outside and stand in a line (but it’s outside, so that’s a nice change, right?). If you are not a crocheter you can take the knitted version, Rue Mouffetard, for a drive. And another cool thing, this pattern is written for two sizes of yarn (a nice touch), the thinner Quince & Co Sparrow (the brown bag) and the thicker Quince & Co Kestrel (ecru bag) (also restocked).

Popham in Quince & Co Kestrel

Materials: Longer, Narrower Bag (thinner yarn)

The brown bag in the pictures. Size is 4½” [37 cm] wide and 27½” [70 cm] total length (including strap).

Materials: Shorter, Wider Bag (thicker Yarn)

The ecru bag in the pictures. Size is 4½” [37 cm] wide and 27½” [70 cm] total length (including strap).

Popham in Quince & Co Kestrel

Popham in Quince & Co Kestrel

Popham in Quince & Co Sparrow
Popham in Quince & Co Sparrow

NEW PROJECT Day Blossom

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Day Blossom

When we make projects for the store, I choose them with you in mind. You’ll can probably figure out which things I like to make for myself – mostly sweaters with simple silhouettes, accessories for the family, and quirky little things (mohair tissue box covers, decorative mini-sweaters, tea cozies with limbs growing out of them, etc). Day Blossom is kind of a crossover – I came across it while looking for a store project, and figured I’d take a chance on it. I fell in love with the texture, I love texture and playing with texture. It combines two weights of Quince’s linen yarns, one thicker and one thinner. In the pictures the yellow is the thicker yarn (Quince & Co Kestrel) and the neutral colour is the thinner (Quince & Co Sparrow).

I kind of like the little fringes, they reiterate the changes in the textile and create a bit of visual interest, but you don’t have to make them if you don’t want to. The size is nice too, it’s very comfortable as a scarf and as a shoulder cover. The linen is cool and comfortable, all drape. After a long winter and cold spring it’s nice to wear a garment that’s feels different. Linen and wool are kind of binary opposites; wool is all about warmth, air and body, while linen is cool, dense and drapey.

I like knitting linen with wood needles, but Liane said it drove her up the wall. When I made my first sweater with Quince & Co Sparrow I swatched quite a bit to make sure I got tension, and I tried both bamboo and brass needles. At first I didn’t like the wood, then I tried the brass, and after that I went back to the wood and preferred them. In the end, the needles weren’t really the factor I expected them to be, but getting used to working with the linen was the important part. Once I was accustomed to the fibre I was happy with my regular needles. As for all those swatches, Sparrow is super soft and machine washes beautifully so I use them around the house and the store. They’ve replaced disposable tissues for removing makeup, washing my face, and cleaning up little messes. To my mind, that’s a big bonus – the less I have to send to landfill the better!

The colours shown in the original pattern are Quince & Co Sparrow in Moon (a grey with a blueish cast) and Quince & Co Kestrel in Minos (purple). Their colours are STUNNING, I love them, and for a bit I had a hard time thinking outside of that box. But it’s been such a cold & dreary spring here that I felt I owed it to everyone to come up with something brighter, happier, more optimistic. To pull myself out of that blank mental space I pulled all of the colours off the shelf and shuffled them around on the table. I’m glad I did, the colour combo I came up with is sunny, it has just enough colour to brighten things up without being “HI, NICE TO MEET YOU! I’M YELLOW!” You can’t go wrong with the combo of a colour on a neutral, you just have to make sure that the tones in both shades are complimentary.

Materials