Start an Autumn Tradition

Many years ago---when I was a skinny kid with scabby knees and a very limited wardrobe---my grandmother began a tradition of knitting me a cozy, new cardigan each autumn. I knew there was a sweater coming my way each fall, but the color and pattern were always a surprise. And my talented Grandma had a very good eye for what would look good on me. Sometimes last year's sweater still fit me when this year's sweater arrived...and I was rich indeed.

These were the barbaric days when girls were required to wear dresses to school (even in Minnesota in winter), so a cozy cardigan was kind of a lifesaver. And she wasn't just saving my life, either! My little sister inherited each of these hand-knit beauties as I out-grew them. And after her, they went to a dear cousin in Red Wing. I'm just now realizing that they were a very practical kind of heirloom.

Since I don't have knobby-kneed grand-humans in my life, I've decided to start a fall cardigan tradition for myself. I'm going to try to recreate a little bit of that Grandma magic.

A cardigan that I've had my eye on for months is the Zakkuri Cardigan by Noriko Ichikawa. It feels like it will be wearable with everything...and, if I choose my color well, like I can wear it day after day and it will look great all winter.

I'm loving the raglan sleeves, too. They are my favorites for layering comfortably over things as the days get cooler.

Please note: this is not a pattern we are allowed to purchase for you in the shop. The designer only sells to individuals, so you'll need to purchase it through Ravelry. I usually avoid suggesting patterns that we cannot help you purchase, but I can't stop myself this time. 

The yarn for this reminiscent cardigan? I'm thinking Highland worsted by Harrisville Designs in New Hampshire. The color array is rich and interesting, the woolen spun strands are bouncy and strong, and I love that it's being manufactured in this country.

I usually wear the third size from most designers, so I'll need seven-ish skeins. I'll probably buy seven, but only wind six. Because I'm so un-tall. Ha!

This is a yarn that you choose when you want to make an heirloom-to-be; not fancy, not trendy, but truly a classic beauty. And as long-lasting as a grandmother's love.

May you enjoy starting (or re-instating) some happy seasonal traditions this autumn. Gather your people and go pick some apples or fall flowers! Stroll through the woods and smell all the smells! Dive into your yarn stash and see what inspires you!

Cheers,

Gaby