The Understudy Makes Good


I've got to admit that I've got a real soft spot for Knit Scene magazine. Launched about 2 years ago, this little publication has flown a bit under the radar. It positions itself as Interweave Knit's younger, hipper sister but the designs still manage to be beautiful, fashion forward and totally wearable at the same time. If IK were Jennifer Aniston then Knit Scene is Ellen Page.



The Fall 2008 issue landed in my mail box this week and has been thumbed to death already. Editor Lisa Shroyer (she of Road to Golden fame) points out in her editorial that it's the simpler, classic knits she tends to wear more often though the artist in us might be drawn to the extreme designs. She reminds us that our projects are meant to be worn. I do find my tastes have changed as I've aged and I'm drawn to the simpler lines - the beautifully tailored pieces. In this issue are many projects I'm drawn to for various reasons.



Big Ivy Scarf

This scarf on the cover rocks! The lacy pattern kissed by bands of fair isle mix two of my favourite techniques. Though I love the tweedy nub of the yarn used here - I think left over shades of Rowan Calmer would be perfect too. O Wool Balance also would give a nice effect.



Big Thaw Pullover

Every project name seems to start with "Big". This one is shaping up to be this year's Cobblestone Pullover which is great because clearly there's a need for handsome, simple guy sweaters. Make this one for your own Mr. Big.

Riding to Avalon:

Connie Chang Chinchio has a talent for striking that perfect balance between classic and trendy. This is my favourite design in the magazine and today's Knitting Daily Gallery shows it on several different models. Her designs also tend to look great on all kinds of body shapes which is the hallmark of true design talent. I'll admit it - I've ordered the Lorna's Laces Swirl DK from Julie in Pewter to make this one. Be forewarned that the colour listed in the magazine (as Tahoe) appears to be incorrect. Tahoe which is a brighter blue but the website now says Pewter which makes more sense based on the photograph.



Matryoshka Stole






Another Beautiful stole adorned with painted wooden beads. Its to mimic those Russian Dolls. I won't put this on the short list to make soon (simply due to queue overload) but it's very distinctive and an exciting submission from another emerging young designer.

Inari Skirt

I was ambivalent about the red/green colour combo at first. I thought "too Christmassy". Then the latest e newsletter from Anthropologie dropped and this outfit reminded me of this skirt. It might be fun to pair it with a pink blouse and red jewelry to mimic the Anthropologie look. Hmmmmmm -






I could go on, waxing poetic about several other designs from this issue but these are the favs for now. If you're trying to get a copy yourself - don't wait. I hear they're selling like hot cakes.