Recipe For a Spell(caster)

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I’m really excited to share my new, early fall sweater design, shown here in size M / 39.5 inches and knit with our latest Special Edition Merino/Silk Fingering, dyed by Miss Babs (it sold out in a minute, but we’ve got more on the way!) 

From my first glimpse of the sample skeins I started thinking about a magically simple tee that spans all seasons, in soothing stockinette with delicious details. And one that could be knit in a variety of fibers because, well—we’ve got lots of options at BNWs!

All of my designs begin with swatches and after trying a few options, I decided on a combination that allowed for incorporating yoke increases invisibly into the patterning in a nifty sleight of hand.

Then it was time to start the mind bending task of calculating, which often begins on a post-it note but who are we kidding??? Pages later and the numbers altered beyond recognition, I had a framework to get started.

Getting going is never without its hiccups, however. On my first pass, I over-knit  the yoke and it ended up looking heavy handed to me. Not at all the light and airy thing I’d imagined. R-r-i-i-i-p-pp.

Much Better. The yoke just flows off the needles in super-easy lace motifs with alternate rounds all in knit; it’s actually pretty addictive. 

Long-time readers may recognize some of these elements as relating to my Irtfa’a shawl. And while the two designs began in different places, they definitely resemble each other in part. Enough to get me searching for a name that reflects that old raven’s magic. I landed on Spellcaster and it’s a perfect fit!

The neck ribbing is knit on afterward to ensure stability for the more open neckline and I like to add this as soon as practical so I have the best idea of how it will hang.Soon I was dividing the yoke and adding the sleeves; this version shows the short sleeve option, but a long one is included in the instructions.

Most of the body is knit in soothing, mindless stockinette stitch without shaping, which goes quickly because—being so lightweight—you can take Spellcasteranywhere and knit while talking or traveling, or even while watching Olympians make herstory.

The instructions include optional short-row shaping at the top of the yoke to ensure that the sweater sits perfectly on the shoulders, falls straight down the back, and doesn’t shift or slide around.

Suddenly it was off the needles and ready for a try-on before weaving in ends and blocking. While a little big for me in this size, it’s still lovely and it feels de-LISH!

Ready for a glamor shot after the bath and on someone who fits it to a tee?

I LOVE it! There are so many things about Spellcaster that make it approachable and so wearable—shall we count the ways? 

1) Top-down seamless construction
I know this is a favorite for many knitters, so I like to devise one every once in a while. For beginners, it allows for try-ons as you go and eliminates the task of seaming for those who find that daunting.

2) Inclusive sizing from preteen to plus++
I am firmly committed to providing sizes for all body types, not only in the upper range but for those on the petite and teen side as well. The patterned yoke section is scaled for three size ranges, while body and sleeve lengths are easily altered in the stockinette areas.

3) Simple stitchwork with big WOW! factor
The whole pattern has both written and charted instructions—yes, every round of the yoke, too. The openwork portions are easy enough for new lace knitters with garment experience, while pleasurable for all skill levels. Of course NO ONE needs to know it was easy—just  keep your lips sealed and allow your admirers to be mesmerized.

4) Thoughtful details
The openwork is repeated in the sleeve and body hems to keep the visual interest going, lighten up the overall effect, and give the knitter something to look forward to at the finish. Short-row shaping at the back neck adds a lovely fit and drape. Two sleeve lengths are offered to suit your wardrobe needs and preferences.

5) Climate friendly weight
A soft handknit top in fingering weight yarn will be a versatile workhorse in your wardrobe. In an airy wool like The G.O.A.T. LaceSpellcaster is light enough for late summer and early fall on its own, but slips easily under a jacket for the office. For very hot, humid climates, consider a plant-based blend like Fresh Lace or Hempshaugh 2.0 Lace. These wilt-free options will feel fresh no matter how far into the day you are.

Right to left above: The G.O.A.T. Lace in WayneFresh Lace in Vanilla, and Modern Deco Lace in Carbon Steel

I’m looking forward to knitting my own Spellcaster for next summer—probably in Fresh Lace or Hempshaugh 2.0 Lace. But the idea of a more organic-looking version in Stone Soup Fingering plays at the edges of my mind even as I say that; perhaps I can fit one in during the winter months . . .