Introducing the yarn
We have recently introduced Edelweiss Alpaca 4ply into the shop and it has quickly become a hit! The cute 25g balls bring so much opportunity for colour mixing and experimental palettes. Edelweiss Alpaca is light and soft, and it’s 10% alpaca content goes above and beyond in bringing a silky smoothness to each stitch made with this yarn. Edelweiss Alpaca is machine washable and very durable, this not only makes it a great sock yarn but also brilliant for shawls, accessories and sweaters!
Here are 6 different ideas for your next makes using Edelweiss Alpaca 4ply!
1. Whimsical Socks
The first patterns that come to mind for this yarn are socks.
These smaller balls of Edelweiss Alpaca are the perfect accompaniment to a variegated skein (such as Schoppel Wolle – Crazy Zauberball ) to add contrast to the cuffs, heals and toes.
The patterns we’re most excited about for Edelweiss Alpaca are the colourwork socks, and why not make them bright, and whimsy?
Stone Knits colorwork sock designs are amazingly unique with socks for every occasion and personality. My current favourites are the ‘You Silly Goose‘ and the ‘Berry Special‘ designs. They look like so much fun and a bit of a challenge, but definitely worth the time spent!
2. Animals and dolls
What is more sentimental than a baby gift that can be kept forever?
Using Edelweiss Alpaca as a base is perfect, its durable, super soft and you wont be left with lots of leftovers at the end. These sweet teddies are perfect for using up small scraps as well as practicing different shaping techniques.
Two patterns I can’t wait to see knit up are the ‘Fox Doll‘ by Claire Garland, as well as the ‘Selbie Mouse’ by Manon Lemaire. Both of these dolls have adorable teeny clothes included in the pattern.
I’m thinking matching handknit sweaters…?
3. Colorwork Cowls
If you’re looking for an interesting winter accessory, and you’re tired of knitting hats; a cowl could be perfect! And in colorwork they are even better. If you are a beginner to colourwork, a cowl that’s worked as a tube, finished with kitchener stitch could be a good place to start! The floats are hidden and its a manageable stitch count with little to no shaping. Plus Edelweiss Alpaca is super soft, which makes it perfect for next-to-skin wear.
The ‘Radiant Star Cowl‘ by Ella Gordon is a lovely way to incorporate lots of colour with only needing one ball of edelweiss per contrast colour. Another beautiful design is the ‘Scandi Bloom Cowl‘ by Heather Best, with breaks of stripes between colourwork sections.
4. Mittens
When making mittens I often worry about using a yarn that is strong enough to withstand such wear and tear without compromising on comfort. Edelweiss Alpaca can be machine washed and has 25% nylon for durability meaning it’s a great choice for daily use! These ‘Effie‘ Mittens by Skiendeer Knits are inspired by traditional Norwegian mittens, with different patterns on the palm and top of the gloves they are full of visual interest. There are so many different colour combinations you could explore with this pattern!
5. Patterned Sweater
if you can’t choose just one of the many colours Edelweiss alpaca comes in, why not pick 6?! This beautiful circular colourwork yoke is designed by Kate Davies. ‘Coofle‘ has delicate motifs repeating around the neckline complemented by a neutral main colour for the stockinette body. Small colourwork details around the ribbing, cuffs and neck provide a delicate border to this sweater.
6. A Colourful Blanket
How about bulking out your scraps with some new Edelweiss alpaca colours and challenge yourself to this colourful throw. The ‘Anthology Throw’ by Helen Stewart is a brilliant example. Although not the best on-the-go project this blanket could be slowly added to and worked on over time, on the sofa or in bed when you’re in need of a cosy mindless knit. The super effective circular stripes create a more-ish effect that will make you not want to put it down!
Have you tried Edelweiss Alpaca 4ply? we would love to hear your thoughts and see your projects or plans! – tag us on instagram @___yak so we can show them some love!
Until next time.. happy knitting!