Volume I: The Wetlands Collection
Knitting in the Deep South is a topic that has been dear to my heart for a long time. We knit a little differently down here! It felt like the time was right to create a pattern group specifically aimed at Southern knitters and the unique challenges they face. Today, I’m happy to introduce my new eBook, “Wetlands: Knitting in the Deep South Vol I”, a labor of love devoted to knitting in the Deep South.
Writing a book – even just an ebook – was a big daunting task for me, but I’m so happy with the way everything came about. Thanks to some wonderful people, “Wetlands” is exactly what I wanted it to be.
I’d like to thank my generous sponsors at Brooklyn Tweed and The Fibre Co, my very talented sample knitters, Ana Ziemba and Annette King, my editor, Kephren Pritchett, and my gorgeous model, Ariana Rainey. Thank you Tipsy Knitters Jenny and Lauren for being helpful “eyes” and thank you, Miss Laura, for your unending support. Most of all, thanks to everyone who knits on in 100% humidity with sticky fingers and frayed nerves. You make knitting in the Deep South wonderful!
The Collection: Knitting in the Deep South
It can seem a little counter-intuitive to knit where it’s hot, and sometimes Southern folk need a little nudge. The Wetlands Collection addresses the unique aspects of warm weather knitting with garments specially designed for warmer climates. I’ve drawn inspiration from the bayous, rivers and waterways of South Louisiana where I live.
The Wetlands pattern collection views these influences through a modern lens to create projects that are intuitive and meditative and feature smartly tailored details. Perfect for knitting in the Deep South, I’ve used blended fibers, openwork, and sleeve variations to create lighter warm weather knits. Of course, every pattern in the Wetlands Collection is a movable feast and can be created, worn and enjoyed anywhere. Feel free to layer them up, pare them down, and substitute fibers to make them uniquely yours.
Drawing on the quiet beauty of the wetlands, I’ve focused on tranquility, ease, utility and rustic charm to create five simple pieces. The Wetlands collection includes patterns for a pullover, a wrap, a hat and matching cowl and a pair of cozy socks.
Teche: The Pullover
This trim pullover draws on classic details like a jewel neckline and set-in sleeves to present a nimble, tidy silhouette, while its simple square shape adds an element of modernity. Two sleeve options make Teche a year-round, ultra-wearable wardrobe staple.
Acadia by The Fibre Co., is the perfect yarn for this collection’s cornerstone project. Cultural connection aside, the fiber content of Acadia makes it perfect for knitting and wearing in the Deep South. Its loamy texture, rusticity, and silky feel call to mind Spanish moss and lichen-encrusted trees.
Honey Island: The Wrap
The Honey Island Wrap is a classic triangle, generously sized against the foggy autumn dampness. Meditative knits and purls create a field of texture in the center section while garter stitch edges the cypress-inspired lower border.
I’ve chosen Brooklyn Tweed’s Arbor for its suppleness and loft combined with its tender stitch definition. This warm, enveloping wrap pairs beautifully with cotton or linen layers or over a denim jacket when the weather is cooler.
Marais: The Hat & Cowl
Worked in weightless “Billow” by Shibui Knits, the Marais Hat & Cowl (sold separately) are soft and cozy yet airy and as nebulous as fog. Marais is pierced with eyelets and punctuated with bobbles in an array inspired by oystergrass, a common Y-shaped grass that grows along the damp edges of the bayou.
The Marais Hat is a classic beret, drawing on the French history and culture of South Louisiana. Softly sculptured, this beret is whisper soft and echoes the oystergrass motif of its matching cowl. It’s a meditative knit, easily memorized, that creates a gauzy, haloed cap with just enough warmth for misty mornings and drizzly afternoons.
The Marais Cowl couldn’t be simpler. A single loop edged in twisted rib, the cowl echoes the oystergrass motif of its matching hat. It’s a meditative knit, easily memorized, that forms a delicate, gauzy ring to wear around your neck. Marais provides just enough warmth for outer wear during the cold months but is light enough to wear indoors.
Spillway: The Socks
The great frothing columns of water created by the Bonnet Carré Spillway inspire these simple socks. They feature repeated panels of bubbling eyelets that course from ankle to toe. This is an easy pattern suitable for the first time sock knitter. The Spillway Socks are worked top down with a short row heel. The toe is a classic wedge.
I’ve chosen Madelinetosh Merino Twist Light for its stability, softness, unparalleled stitch definition and durability.
I’m so happy to bring these patterns to you! I hope you’ll enjoy knitting each and every one of them!
