Welcome Tarpon!
I’m so pleased to announce the launch of my new raglan pullover, Tarpon! It’s a classic summer pullover that is just right for breezy days, cool nights on the water and air conditioned restaurants. Pop Tarpon over your swimsuit, shorts or your favorite linen dress; worked in an airy cotton/linen blend, Tarpon is snuggly without being overly warm.
The Inspiration
If ever you saw a Tarpon, you’d know it! They’re the big, silvery, leaping marine creatures we associate with game fishing. In fact, Tarpon are considered some of the greatest saltwater game fishes in the South because of their large size, acrobatic leaping ability and tenacious fight. Tarpon also breathe! They’ll die if not given sufficient access to the surface, which may account for their spectacular leaps into the air.
I am so blessed to be included on the many sailing excursions of my friends Jacques & Paige. We’ve been sailing Lake Pontchartrain just about every week, cruising the brackish waters of the lake, eating yummy food and drinking wine. It was on one of those trips that I dreamed up Tarpon. I wanted something cool yet absorbent, something slightly “boaty” looking that was comfortable and easy care. Toss in a fish or two and there you have it! Tarpon.
On a recent trip, I asked Paige if I could photograph her wearing my Tarpon sweater and she agreed. This simple raglan with a watery cable on the sleeve is just right for sailing.
The Sweater
Leaping Tarpon, expressed with a simple ribbed cable, emboss the sleeves of this easy raglan pullover. The cable is fluid, streaming effortlessly into ribbing at the yoke and cuff. This essential top-down pullover uses classic raglan shaping techniques to create a spare, boxy shape and gently squared neckline. Tarpon is designed for an easy fit, slightly oversized, with 2” to 6” or positive ease recommended. Tarpon’s simple boxy shape layers beautifully and looks great with jeans, skirts and over casual linen dresses. It’s the perfect mixture of “pay-attention” cable knitting and simple rounds of stockinette that make for a great commute or knit night project.
The Yarn
I love life in the deep south, but it can get hot! I’m always on the look out for cool summer blends and have long been a lover of “CotLin” from Knit Picks (my Fair Haven Picnic Blanket and Fused Market Tote are worked in it). CotLin is an easy-care DK-weight blend of Tanguis cotton and linen. Tanguis cotton brings a light and airy loft, while Belgian linen adds a touch of crispness to this handsome summer blend. The stitch definition and receptivity to dyes is outstanding. CotLin is currently available in 50 shades.
I think I will live in Tarpon! The cotton and linen blend of fibers is just perfect for the climate here. And I love the way it fits. (Now that I’ve lost that 30 pounds, I might need to make a smaller one! 😉