Idea’s for what to make with Baby Alpaca, Linen and Silk Yarn

Technically this isn’t a ‘new’ base as I stocked a small amount of it a few years ago but it’s one I’ve been asked for a few times so I decided to order a larger batch this time. It is made up of 50% Baby Alpaca, 25% Linen and 25% Silk and it’s a 3 ply, fingering weight thickness with a gorgeous drape to it. The baby alpaca results in soft muted pastel colours when you dye it. I won’t get too technical here, but different dyes are used for different fibres. So the plant based fibre (linen) requires different dye to the protein based fibre (alpaca). As I used a protein based acid dye, the linen remains un-dyed and I think it adds an interesting dimension to those soft pastels. Add in the subtle sheen from the silk and the end product becomes a very special yarn so I thought I’d share some projects ideas with you all.

Back in summer 2018, I knitted the Airgead Tank Top with this yarn while I was on holiday on the west coast and have to say it has been a firm fave in my wardrobe ever since. It has just gotten softer as I’ve worn it whether that’s as a light summer top or under a cardigan in winter. I think that is one of the brilliant things about this yarn; cool in the summer yet warm in the winter. Isn’t yarn magic?!

Airgead is knitted in the round from the bottom up. I seem to remember that this was a size 38 and I used around 150g of yarn. Half of the stitches are simply knitted for the front and the lace repeat is on the other half at the back. It was probably the most intricate lace pattern I had knitted at that point and it definitely took me a while to get the pattern in my head. However, row by row, taking my time, I managed it and finished it off with i-cord edging which was another first for me. Wow, what a difference that makes! The pattern by Mona C Nicleoid is extremely well written and there was lots of additional information about how to adapt the pattern to fit your own shape. Believe me, this lady can write patterns!!! You can follow Mona on Instagram under @knittinginspaceships

quince-and-co-bolan-leila-raabe-knitting-pattern-sparrow-1.jpg

Another great option for this base would be Bolan by Leila Raven. I’ve often fancied knitting this loose fitting top and particularly like the fact that it is knitted sideways. Perfect for layering up over a vest top.

If you aren’t up for knitting a garment then this lace shawl might suit you better. Linium by Janina Kallio would be lovely and uses exactly the same yarn. Only one skein and gorgeously light and airy.

Not forgetting the crocheters amongst us, I think it would work really well as a Peach Sorbet Tee Top by Expression Fibre Arts. This is a free crochet pattern which would show off the beautiful drape the yarn has.

However, as soon as I saw this cardigan by Ambah O’Brien, I knew I’d have to knit it! I was very kindly gifted this pattern in return for test knitting the more recent Celestia Cardigan which is much more of a winter cardi as it is sooooo cosy. I think The Ochre Cardigan would be a good wardrobe basic and it might just be by next project.

I seem to always go for blue’s, greens and purples and was very close to choosing the ‘Ink Blot’ colourway as I think it’d go with so much of what I already wear. But is that too ‘safe’? It looks amazing in that mustardy / ochre colour….. Hmmmm decisions, decisions :-)

What would you make with this yarn?

I’d love to see your suggestions in the comments.

Claire xx

Cookston Crafts is based in rural Aberdeenshire and is a real haven for craft lovers. Claire creates luxury hand dyed yarns inspired by the beautiful Scottish landscape.

Claire also teaches workshops from a beautiful converted steading and will give you a warm welcome whether you are there for a class or just to browse the yarn.

Claire is passionate about sharing her love of all things crafty and is delighted to give help and advice so you have the confidence and inspiration to create your own unique project.