The other day in the shop, the shop owner was helping a customer select yarns for a project.  She was a new knitter.  When the owner suggested that she might add in some "novelty yarn", the customer said "what's novelty yarn?"

We all paused for a minute.  Then one of us said "you know it when you see it."

We can all spot the yarns with names like Fizz, and Fuzz, and Firz, etc. etc.  But what about some of the gorgeous yarns put out by Noro and Mountain Colors, for example.  They're fuzzy, and fluffy, but have something special about them that just seems to separate them from the crowded novelty market.  Take, for example, Noro Blossom, or Mountain Colors Merino Ribbon.

Recently, my mom admired a sweater on a lady at one of her lady gatherings.  She asked me if I could make one for her.  I love to knit for my mom, because she will appreciate and wear whatever I make.  I contacted this lady and tracked down the pattern.  When I got it, I saw that it uses novelty yarns, mixed in with a base worsted weight...not exactly my cup of tea!

I started to play with some yarns from my stash.  I thought some Nashua Worsted in cream would make a great base.  Then I remembered I had some Noro Blossom left, so that would be the main accent yarn.  Before I knew it, I was knee deep in yarns having so much fun to combining textures and colors.

This sweater is making me appreciate the novelties a little more, as they become much more interesting when used as a part of a whole, to provide just the right bit of texture or color.  Not to mention how much fun it is to knit mitred squares.  Positively addicting!  And as I'm working on this one, other versions drift into my head...one in all natural, a Noro version, a Manos version, and on and on....

Some yarns chosen:  Lamb's Pride, Manos, Noro Blossom, Rowan Kid Silk Haze, Nashua Worsted, among others...

Comments

[Marina]

I've always loved that pattern. It looks like so much fun. Your version is gorgeous.

[Erica]

That does look fun!

[Diane]

I have seen this jacket before but your version is just stunning. I may have to knit one up. Have you been using yarn mostly from your stash or did you have to buy new yarns?

[shoofly]

wow, that is just so pretty! and fun! i love the colors you're using.

[Julia]

Well I wouldn't have jumped at something with novelty yarns, but I completely get it about combining with a good base. It looks lovely. I haven't done any mitered squares yet, but they do have an attraction.

[Annie]

It is beautiful! What a good daughter you are. :)

[katie]

Sigh. The texture and colors of those squares are so gorgeous.

[Kathy]

You always have such good stuff over here! A new way to look at things. My mom admired a bag from the same designer last year -- I've been on the lookout for the pattern ever since.

[erin]

A little novelty looks fun, whimsical and pretty. And since you're putting your own version of the yarns, it's going to be unique and your own work of art too, so enjoy.

[Geri]

What an exciting pattern! I have made a mitered square tote bag and loved the evolution of the project. This sweater is the perfect follow-up. It makes me want to dive into those left-over novelty yarns I've used for gift scarves and see the combinations available. I love the cream, mauve and grey combination!!

[Dorothy]

I took a class from Chris Bylsma at a knitting retreat. I wasn't too jazzed about it at first, but once we got into it I was entranced. I'm a very traditional knitter, but I found combining the novelty yarns with the worsted base really made them interesting. I bought one of her patterns but haven't gotten around to making it yet.

[Oiyi]

Gorgeous colors and textures! I can't wait to see the finished scarf. You are making me think twice about novelty yarns.

[Suzanne]

Your combination of colors and textures in this sweater is delightful and inspiring. I wouldn't normally think that a sweater like this would interest me, but seeing you having so much fun "designing" it in your choice of color and texture combinations makes me think twice. I can't wait to see the finished product. Maybe I have an idea now for my mom's birthday in October, using some of the extra Lamb's Pride I have laying around the house.

[poormary]

I'm not normally drawn to novelty yarn but this project reminds me of a couple in Nancie Wiseman's book "Knitted Sweaters for Every Season". I think your mom is going to love this!

[Kerstin]

The colors you've chosen are so pretty. Are you sewing the mitered squares together to form the sweater? If so, you win Daughter of the Year award!

[Stacie]

That is so beautiful!! What pretty color combos!!!!

[Kim]

I love visiting here.....your projects are always so inspiring :-)