Malabrigo Quickies: Temu Cowl
The first day of fall signifies the pinnacle of knitting season for any knitter. Abandoned projects, yarn, and needles seem to jump into action as we attempt to ward off the chill of the changing crisp fall air. Susana Lobos Garcia’s Quickies project from August offers the perfect opportunity for a knitter to have a stunning and warm accessory that should flow right off the needles. This piece pairs gentle lace stitches with the thicker yarn, Malabrigo Worsted, which helps to ward off the chill.
As a designer, Susana believes in experimenting with color and textures. She prefers romantic and feminine designs with a modern twist. The Temu cowl is ideal for pairing color, texture, and romantic nuance into a modern interpretation.
Susana took the time to share a little bit about the Temu cowl and her design process with our team, and we are excited to share that with you all today.
1: What is your favorite part of your Quickies design and why?
It was so much fun to use a yarn with a bright and intense color that I hadnt tried before, mainly because it fills me with energy just looking at it. At the same time, its inspiring for me to share this design with the knitters who love Malabrigo.
2: What should knitters pay attention to when working this pattern? Do you have any tips or tricks to make knitting this pattern easier?
I would have four things in mind:
If you have little experience knitting lace, you can help yourself by using stitch markers to indicate each repeat so you always keep your way.
When you read the charts, they always read in the same direction because they are circular knits.
The pattern is slightly more comprehensive as it goes down the neck, so it has several increases as you knit.
Be gentle when blocking, as the yarn is very soft with little twist, so be patient.
3: What do you think knitters will enjoy the most about this project?
Im sure youll love it because its a quick and fun project to knit, and you can use it in all kinds of styles, indoors and out. At the same time, the softness of the yarn and the wide range of colors will make you love it and knit it more than once.
4: What does your design process look like?
My design process always starts with a drawing in my head, inspired by objects, people, colors, wool, or just the geometry of something I saw while walking. I have several notebooks with sketches; they are a diary of my ideas and fantasies because sometimes they make it to paper without becoming an actual design.
There are times when everything is very well planned, and I follow every step without stopping, but other times, I work freely without stopping to think, just ideas and threads flowing in my hands.
The most exciting thing is when I see it finished, Im always surprised by the result; its better than what I had in my drawings. I have learned to enjoy every step; I love knitting, taking photos, and imagining who can wear it. Creating is my purpose; I am a complete person when I design.
5: Was there any particular inspiration you had when creating this piece?
I am a nature lover; I love trees, especially the big ones with leaves. This led me to look for some of the native species of Chile where I live because I love the motifs with leaves. So I found this tree, called Temu in the Mapuche language; it is legendary and significantly appreciated for its shade in the hot southern summers and its winter resistance because it does not lose its leaves. It is a metaphor that I like very much for life: natures resilience.
6: What is the one thing you wish people knew about you as a designer?
I love color, but each design can be customized to suit your style, palette, and skills. Generally, for women who work outdoors or indoors and who like to dress discreetly or casually, a colorful shawl or any accessory can boost your outfit.
Also, Id like you to know that I always have time to answer questions or read your comments; I love to see the opinions of those who knit my designs.
7. What beverage will you most likely have by your side while designing?
Tea, maybe green or berry; I love those scents, plus they give me the feeling of energy and calm at the same time. I love tea anytime, especially during knitting moments.
You can find Susana on
IG @susanalobosdesigns
Ravelry ID: CreacioneSusana
Website: www.susanalobosdesigns.com
Download pattern here: https://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/temu-cowl