Knitting can be so powerful – it allows us to feel a sense of accomplishment while at the same time providing a mindful exercise where we can just focus on each stitch, one at a time, and take comfort in that distraction. And I know so many of us need just that at a time like this. My husband lives with a chronic pulmonary disease (along with several other health issues) so I am no stranger to using my craft as therapy to get through the feelings of groundlessness that accompany chronic illness and stressful times. Knitting has always been the thing I can count on to keep me grounded, to force my attention on the present moment and to provide just a little bit of comfort. So with all of that said, I want to try to help you find a bit of this comfort knitting right now by sharing a new free pattern (see below!). Perhaps it might help, even if just a tiny bit, as you turn to your knitting for some comfort. And if you are able to, I encourage you to purchase yarn for this pattern through your local yarn shop (LYS) to help them during this time – many are providing online or phone ordering and can ship right to your home! Wishing health and safety to everyone.
Happy Harvest Cowl
In my Happy Harvest poncho pattern, which published last Fall (in collaboration with Berroco Yarns), the instructions include how to make a separate cowl that can be worn with or without the poncho. I have decided to publish the cowl piece as a separate pattern and offer it for FREE. If you are able to, I hope you’ll consider purchasing the yarn for it from your LYS, either online or through phone ordering, to help support them during this time. The yarn the pattern calls for is Berroco’s Ultra Wool Chunky which is widely available at many yarn shops. Another great Berroco option would be Catena (pictured below) – Berroco has a store locator on their website if you want to find a LYS near you that carries any of these great options. Or just call or email your LYS as they are sure to have other great yarn options (perhaps an indie-dyer or other local artisan!).