Say hello to Misti Alpaca Chunky. It would seem that here in EweKnit, as the temperature outside drops, our desire to wrap ourselves in alpaca (or, at least surround ourselves with it in the shop) increases accordingly. It has gotten colder, so the alpaca we've been compulsively squishing has gotten bigger: say hello to Misti Alpaca Chunky.
This 100% baby alpaca yarn is so soft it doesn't quite seem real. And I know you've probably felt some soft yarn before, but truly, this stuff is like lullabies and clouds soft. That it comes is a wide range of both solid and heathered colours just adds to its desirability. Misti Alpaca Chunky is, as advertised, a chunky-weight yarn, meaning it's quick to knit up into whatever winter accessories you might be realizing you kind of need right about now. Also, because we have more than twenty colours in the shop, ranging from neutrals through bright pinks, deep blues, and pastels, it's perfect for Christmas knitting – both last minute and planned.
With that in mind, here are five project ideas to get you through the holiday season – and the winter – in cozy alpaca style.
- Bandana Cowl by Purl Soho – We have been in love with this pattern ever since it came out last year. It is the epitome of modern stylish knitwear, and versatile enough to be approved by both the teenagers and the grandparents in your life. It's design takes full advantage of alpaca's drape, while still holding a gauge that's tight enough to provide some cozy warmth and structure. All that and it's a quick knit too. How can you go wrong?
- Bella's Mittens by Marielle Henault – Long cuffs, chunky mittens, gorgeous cables – these are a no-brainer. We love the classic structure of these mittens, and love them even more for being knit in a chunky yarn because it means that when your hands are cold, it's almost as fast to knit yourself new mittens as it is to dedicate time to finding your old ones.
- Foliage hat by Emily Mooney – Sure, sure, a hat with lace leaves probably isn't as warm as a think garter or stockinette version, but this one is so pretty. Plus, because alpaca is warmer than wool, and this is in a chunky weight (so it's thick), we think there's a good argument to be made for wearing this stylish beanie all winter long. In fact, we kind of wish we were wearing one right now.
- Diagonal Rib Knit Scarf by Alicia Fleitas – Because we believe in equal opportunity knitting (and also knit-wearing), here's a decidedly unisex use for Misti Alpaca Chunky. This scarf is in a diagonal rib, making it simple and classic for the man in your life, and also pretty and soft for any woman you know who might night a scarf. The bonus for you, my dear knitter, is that the knitting is uncomplicated enough to be done while watching a movie, but not so mind-numbing you'll give up. Plus, the ribbing helps give the alpaca some structure. We love designs that truly fall into the unisex category because it makes picking colours so much fun. Truly, anyone on your gift list this year would be lucky to receive this scarf.
- Shalom Cardigan by Meghan McFarlane – This simple short-sleeved cardigan is a great addition to any winter wardrobe. It's warm, it's soft, and it will easily fit over a long-sleeved shirt without adding much extra bulk. The yoke and A-line shape are almost universally flattering, and are a great way to enjoy the drape of alpaca while still benefiting from its warmth.