Thursday, September 19, 2013

Prairie Ridge Shawl ~ My New Design & Kits for Infinite Twist!



Hi, Knitters,
Today is a special day here on the blog, be sure to read to the end for an extraordinary opportunity for you. I have been working for about a year on this new shawl design and developing and coordinating ideas with this incredible yarn company, Infinite Twist. A year in the making for this concept! The hard work has been well worth it. The design and the yarn are a match made in heaven.


Today I am privileged to be hosting a giveaway for a kit to make my new shawl design, the Prairie Ridge Shawl, giving you information on where to purchase your own kit and mostly, letting you know about this interesting and inspiring yarn company, Infinite Twist. It's a big day!

Never have I felt so much love for a design before due to the back story of the handspun yarn and company, Infinite Twist.



I wish you could feel this shawl through the screen. It is soft and luscious. The yarn is 100% wool and the barber poling of colors in the yarn creates a heathered, almost tweedy effect in the fabric. There is something really different and special about this finished project. The color of the yarn really reminds me of the purple prairie flowers I have been enjoying all summer on my hikes.

The Prairie Ridge Shawl is versatile in the ways you can wear it. It sits nicely simply draped over your shoulders, you could add a shawl pin to hold it in place or tie it in the front, you can wrap it up closely around your neck or drape it over your shoulder and tie the ends in the back. 

For different ways to wear your shawl check out my video on YouTube called, Ways to Wear Your Shawl. Click here to view!


In the photo above I have the shawl over my shoulders and tied in the back. This is one of my favorite ways to wear a shawl. It stays put this way.


You can see how nicely the shawl sits on my shoulders and just envelops me in the lovely handspun yarn. It is an incredible feeling to wear this shawl.



Above I have the shawl wrapped up around my neck. I can't wait to wear the shawl wrapped around my black wool coat in the winter months ahead. That will be so warm and cozy.

The Prairie Ridge Shawl is like a sister in shape to my shawl from last year, the Quaker Ridge Shawlette. As you know, because I've said it many times, this half-circle shape is my favorite for a shawl. If you knit the Quaker Ridge Shawlette you'll find the Prairie Ridge Shawl similar in shape but different in many ways such as: a different cast on and start up, much easier increases, worsted weight yarn instead of a sport weight, a simple lace pattern worked in with stockinette stitch sections, and two edging options (a ruffle or a simple garter edge). The Prairie Ridge Shawl can be made any size because you can stop of any point in the pattern to make a smaller shawl or continue on with the sections to make a larger version.


Here is some pattern information you might like to know:


This is a perfect first shawl/lace project!! 

Finished Measurements: 68-inch wingspan, 22-inch depth after blocking
Yarn: Infinite Twist Halo Heather (worsted weight handspun 100% wool); 550 yards
Needles: US size 7 circular needles, 32-inch or longer
Gauge: 5 stitches per inch in Stockinette stitch before blocking
Sizing and Yarn Notes
The gauge for this shawl doesn’t have to be exact, however, the yardage requirements will vary if the gauge is different. Also, this pattern doesn’t require a certain number of stitches at any given point; you can easily make your shawl larger or smaller by continuing on or stopping at any time. Stopping at the end of a repeat is recommended when changing the size of the shawl.

(The 3 colorways for the shawl kits!)

And only because I know I will be asked this, right now the pattern is only available in kit form exclusively through Infinite Twist! Please take advantage of this beautiful kit offering if you are able. You won't regret it. 

In January 2014 the single pattern will be available for download through my Ravelry Pattern Shop. I will let you know when the pattern is available for download. It will become available on this page, click here! The Prairie Ridge Shawl is a great project for your own handspun as well. 

Here is some important information about Infinite Twist provided by the founder, Cate Carter:

Infinite Twist provides fiber artists with hand-crafted supplies and beautiful tools, and provides living wages for skilled artisans.
Your fingers only need to dip into a skein of Infinite Twist yarn once to understand that this is no ordinary yarn. This is a labor of love that has taken generations to perfect, and provides much-needed income to vulnerable populations of women in China.
All Infinite Twist yarn begins its journey as buttery, super-soft wool from Northern China. It is dyed in small batches and passed into the hands of masters of a fast-fading craft, to be hand-spun into heirloom-quality yarn.
Hand-spun yarn is a tactile delight to work with. Interacting with materials made by a craftsperson rather than a machine takes your knitting, weaving, crocheting, or other fiber art to a new level.
Cate Carter-Evans, founder of Infinite Twist, is responsible for the magical color combinations. All dyeing is done with safe and colorfast dyes sourced in the U.S.
Infinite Twist offers four flavors of hand-spun yarn, plus multi-yarn kits.
Qinghai Hand-spun is a springy wool that gives great stitch definition and an attractive corded appearance. This yarn is spun by the women of the Qinghai Spinner’s Cooperative.  The Cooperative was founded by social-venture Shokay in 2010, and provides jobs for rural Tibetan women in China’s Qinghai Province.
Halo Heather is hand-spun from hand-painted roving, resulting in subtly shifting colors that don’t pool.
Halo Shine pairs one strand spun with hand-painted roving with a Navajo-piled strand of shiny rayon.
Halo Semi-Solid is kettle-dyed in small batches, and can be custom ordered in a range of 28 colors.
Our Halo family of yarns takes its name from the gorgeous bloom of fibers it develops after blocking. The Halo family of yarns is spun by Infinite Twist’s Shanghai-based spinners.
Infinite Twist’s yarn line may be new, but the development of our heirloom-quality yarns began generations before.
Founder Cate Carter-Evans inherited her passion for spinning and dyeing from her grandmother, learned knitting and crochet from her mom at the age of 5, and adopted patience from her father by spending time in his wood shop.
Cate has conducted more than six trainings in the Qinghai Province for the cooperative’s members, helping them apply their traditional spindle spinning technique to spinning with foot-powered Acadia spinning wheels.
With a professional background in product marketing for apparel and accessories, Cate is thrilled to be putting her skills to work in service of what she’s most passionate about – yarn!
Her love of fiber began with color and she considers herself a colorist first and foremost. Take a look at the whimsical colors in the Infinite Twist collection, like the orange rose Shreveport, the incandescent Indoor Fireworks and the delicious Granny Smith, to see her talent in action.
She currently lives in Shanghai, China with her husband and three cats. When she isn’t teaching knitting classes you can find her dyeing yarn in her kitchen or spinning in her studio.


Zuo (in the photo above) is one of the spinners who has been working very hard on spinning up the kits for the Prairie Ridge Shawl. She is a very talented spinner as you'll see in the yarns below. I thought you might like to know a little about her: 

Spinner Profile:  Zuo
Zuo grew up in Anhui province, one of the poorest in China.
With a 7th grade education, she moved to Shanghai with her husband and young sons in search of a better life for their family, good schools, and jobs. She worked as a restaurant dishwasher, and her husband worked as a driver.
In her home village, her mom and the other village women were all makers – they could all spin knit, sew, and do embroidery. Zuo continues this tradition with her spinning and knitting.
Zuo has worked for Infinite Twist for just over a year. She and her mom spin the Halo family of yarns.
Zuo says she loves her job because she can work from home. She saves gas money for her motorcycle, doesn’t have to commute, and gets to spend more time with her family.


I had so much fun working with Cate on customizing and selecting the kit colorways for you to enjoy. I love nature and the nearby prairies and of course, fall. All of these loves of mine played into the color selections being offered by Infinite Twist.

Can you believe the color and depth of the glorious Iris Garden yarn above? As soon as I saw Iris Garden in the box from China I knew immediately that this would be the color for the shawl sample. I only wish you could all squish and feel how unique this yarn is in person..... 


The Iris Garden yarn pulls you in and makes you never want to stop knitting. I could not put the shawl down once I started working with this yarn. 



My next shawl is already on my needles and it is in this gorgeous blend of milk chocolate and very dark chocolate browns. The yarn colorway is appropriately called, Box of Chocolates. This is another kit colorway for the Prairie Ridge Shawl. 


Ahhhh! It is so beautiful.... dark and rich and interesting.



My third colorway choice for you is called, Autumnal and it couldn't be any more gorgeous. It is a deep, rich blend of rusty reds and browns. I love it so much I can hardly contain myself. 


I will be knitting another upcoming design using Autmnal so stay tuned....



So here are the color choices, Iris Garden, Autmnal or Box of Chocolates. The kits are selling for $95 and I want to talk about this for a brief second. The Quaker Ridge Shawlette, my last shawl, uses three skeins of Madelinetosh Pashmina. Pashmina sells for about $30 a skein, so the total price was around $90 for the shawl. For the Inifinite Twist Prairie Ridge Shawl kits to be priced at $95 is amazing. You are getting handspun worsted weight yarn and the pattern and you are helping support women like Zuo in China all for about the same price as 3 skeins of Madelinetosh. It's really a good thing. 

The kits are a great deal.
Here are the links again for the Prairie Ridge Shawl kits now that you've seen the colors:

You can see the slight halo on the blocked shawl above. The yarn is called Halo Heather and blooms up so nicely when blocked. I love a ruffle and an eyelet row mixed with a worsted weight tweedy yarn. It is a gorgeous combination.


I made video tutorials on how to block the Prairie Ridge Shawl using wires and pins on my YouTube Channel. The tutorial is in four parts:


You, of course, don't need to use pins and wires to block your shawl. You could just wash it in a wool wash and spread it out on your floor or table or bed or wherever is good. That will be plenty to get a good blocking.


My son and I headed out to the nearby nature conservancy where I do a lot of my hiking and walking and running. I am in there almost every day of the week. We brought some twine and ties to hang the shawl somewhere in the prairie section of the conservancy. We ended up stringing the shawl between one small tree and then over the branch of a much larger tree but the twine needed tension to support the shawl once we clipped it onto the string.


So the tension giver was me! My son took this photo without me knowing. I thought you might enjoy seeing a tiny behind the scenes view. Look at the beautiful prairie and the gorgeous skies and that spectacular Prairie Ridge Shawl suspended in the air. It was a day to remember.

I am so excited to give you the chance to win one of the Prairie Ridge Shawl kits from Infinite Twist today!! Cate of Infinite Twist is so generous. Thank you to Cate!

If you win you get to pick the colorway for your kit, either Iris Garden, Box of Chocolates or Autumnal. Please leave a comment and let me know what you think of Infinite Twist and which colorway is your favorite. Don't miss out on this chance!

Leave only one comment that includes an email address or your Ravelry ID so I can get in touch with you to get your mailing address if you win. Please be patient and don't enter more than once. It takes awhile for your comment to appear on the blog post because I have to approve each comment to prevent spam. I will randomly select a winner in a couple of days.

Let the comments begin! Good luck to you all. This is a huge opportunity!
best, susie

535 comments:

1 – 200 of 535   Newer›   Newest»
polkaknits said...

Congratulations on this beautiful design! I'd be very happy if I win. Iris garden is my favorite.
Cheers!
seeyouat5 on Rav

Laura said...

What an amazing project! I love all the colours but I think my favourite is box of chocolate. Thanks so much!
Rav ID: lauraarual

Marion said...

The pattern is gorgeous, love the Iris colourway.

knitweb on Ravelry

Marion said...

The pattern is gorgeous, love the Iris colourway.

knitweb on Ravelry

Colleen said...

Iris Garden...BEAUTIFUL...but any color would be wonderful! ckranda@hotmail.com

Colleen said...

Iris Garden is Gorgeous but all are beautiful...Thank you for the generous giveaway! ckranda@hotmail.com

Vicki Maynes said...

You have done it again! Beautiful pattern paired with a fantastic yarn! A person could get lost in the depth and variety of color in all those colorways. The purple is really gorgeous, but I like the chocolate best.
Vicki.maynes@gmail.com

Leanne (Lunatic84) said...

Wow, I love the story behind the yarn and I love seeing Z at work! I think the Iris garden is stunning.
Thanks Susan and Cate!
lunatic84

Britni :) said...

WOW! Beautiful shawl, beautiful yarn! Not sure I can choose a favorite. They are all gorgeous. :)

Rav- Beewing

Linda7267 said...

Love, love, love.... Iris garden for me!

Linda7267

Anonymous said...

Thank you so much for sharing the behind the scenes and what a beautiful pattern with yummy yarn to go with. I may have to consider adding a shawl on things to try next! di327 on rav

Karen said...

Wow! love that shawl, and the yarn colors are all stunning! I would be hard pressed to pick. When this pattern is available outside the kit, I will make one from my own handspun.

Ber said...

Another wonderful design Susan! I think autumnal is my favourite colour way but I really like Iris Garden too.
Ber (bee30 on ravelry)

ElishaC said...

What a lovely pattern and such an amazing and inspiring story behind the yarn. It looks scrumptious! I especially love that spinning wheel, and I think it's neat to see it being used in China after coming from my home state of Maine. I love all the colorways, too...maybe Autumnal could be my favorite...?

Anonymous said...

WOW!!! Handspun yarn, beautiful rich colorations, incredible shawl design. It's totally a "win"!

Iris Garden is simply amazing.

threadsgal on Ravelry

Anonymous said...

Oh my how gorgeous!!!! Never have done a shawl but after seeing this would love to start now!!! The Iris Garden is beyond words.


mdeecarter@hotmail.com

zenitude said...

Wow! This is real handspun yarn! Such an interesting post Susan! If I would be so lucky to win, I would choose Autumnal colourway. But they are all beautiful.
Rav: zenitude

Madingley said...

Handspun, wow! Iris Garden

ypsiknitti said...

The shawl and the yarns are beautiful. As inviting as chocolate sounds, I'd have to go with Autumnal as my choice, mainly because it's a little brighter.
Ypsiknitter on ravelry.

Anonymous said...

I'm so excited for you & your latest yarn adventure. I love the look of this yarn and can't wait to try it. Congratulations Susan and thanks for sharing your amazing talent with us.

Connie
connknits@ravelry

Carmen said...

Beautiful shawl loving the box of chocolate!@(^_^)@

csbrown

Anonymous said...

I like automnal color the best and since my maple started to change his color last week, I feel that it would be fun to knit this shawl and watch him turn in flames! coutrem on rav

Debsnubs said...

The yarn is a labor of love for sure would love the box of chocolates beautiful pattern as well.

Betz White said...

Gorgeous all around! (I miss those prairies!) I haven't been much of a shawl person but you might be convincing me. :) The iris color really sings but the others are lovely too.

Amber said...

Love this yarn and pattern. The Iris colorway is so lovely. I enjoyed reading about one of the spinners of the yarn too. Thanks!

Anonymous said...

Beautiful. Iris Garden of course!
A wonderful opportunity to connect with real people.
Thanks.
Jio ravelry

Anonymous said...

I would LOVE to knit up a sugar-free CHOCOLATE shawl!

mkhansen on Ravelry

pens and needles said...

I'm just a sucker for a touching story, and I'm just a sucker for gorgeous yarn, and I'm just a sucker for a new shawl pattern. Have made every one you've ever suggested. I'd definitely choose the Iris Garden color because of my silver hair -- love browns but they don't love me. This was such fun to read this morning -- love the story of Zuo -- thanks for including that. You've made my morning smile!

knitster said...

Yummy yarn you picked out to coordinate with your new shawl. Will there be perhaps be a kal when the pattern becomes available.
Iris Garden is such a rich color but then purple is my fav color.

Carolyn said...

Beautiful pattern and yarn. I love Box of Chocolates!

Ravelry ID: stamphappymomma

pixiewear (ravelry name) said...

The shawl and the yarn are both so gorgeous! Just beautiful!

Meg Roke said...

Love this new pattern! The Autumnal color is calling to me... Thanks for making another winning pattern, Susan.
(Mooch on Rav)

rebekah dwyer said...

Wow this is really special. Love Autumnal the most I think, though they are all beautiful!
Rebekah
Rav: scruffian

Rose said...

Beautiful I have been looking for a shawl to tie behind my back. I am always cold and busy in the kitchen...
tobel on Rav

Sarah said...

Fabulous pattern and gorgeous yarn!! All the colors are great, but I'm leaning towards Box of Chocolates first. (simbaswing on rav).

Kristebee said...

What a beautiful shawl! I've been waiting for this one since you did the awesome videos on blocking. Infinite twist seems like a wonderful company. I love that they are training their spinners and helping women better their lives through fiber art. Already purchased a kit but would love to win one to make as a gift. Love reading about all the love and hard work that went into this project. ❤️ Kriste (kristebee on ravelry)

phyllis said...

I can see why this is worth the wait. A wonderful pattern paired with a gorgeous handspan yarn....what more could you ask for? All color ways are beautiful, but I would select the Iris because I could wear it to my Red Hat meetings! Thank you for making this offering possible.
Rav ID: daylily1220

Jersey Shore Deb said...

I think the shawl is gorgeous...and as I sit here on a cold morning in New Jersey, I wish I had it on! I love all of the colors, it is very hard to choose, but I think Box of Chocolate would be a great addition to my wardrobe.
Ravelry Name: JerseyShoreDeb

ErikaC said...

Beautiful! I loved reading the history of Infinite Twist and the spinner profile. Sounds like a fabulous company - I am intrigued! Today I'm really feeling the Box of Chocolates colorway. Guess I'm feeling wintery already! :)
ErikaC on Ravelry

Sarah said...

Fabulous pattern and gorgeous yarn! I think I love the Box of Chocolates best, but they are all fantastic. (simbaswing on rav).

Spinmom13 on Rav said...

Love this new shawl pattern and the Box of Chocolates yarn. Hope I win it in time to make this cozy shawl for winter!
Spinmom13 on Rav

Debbie1085 said...

Bravo! Great shawl!
Iris Garden is my choice.

Debbie1085 on Rav

pjg said...

Forest Gump's mom said 'life is like a box of chocolates'... who wouldn't want That around your shoulders! Yum!
rav id: pjgolenzer

pjg said...

Beautiful yarn, beautiful colors..box of chocolate is so yummy!
rav id: pjgolenzer

jstultz50 said...

It's beautiful Susan. Thanks for another great giveaway!

Ratch (Rav)

Sara said...

That is a beautiful shawl! I can't decide if Iris Garden or Autumnal is my favorite...I think I would pick Autumnal after my favorite season!
Thanks!
sms394 on Rav

heatherg7 said...

This is such a beautiful pattern. The handspun is gorgeous. My favorite is the Autumnal Colorway. I love your giveaways.

Heather
heatherg7 on rav

Marianna said...

Beautiful shawl and the colors are great. I would have a hard time choosing a favorite color. Would probably go with the chocolate because of the name!
yarnbasket on Ravelry

Unknown said...

Lovely! My favorite is Box of Chocolates.

ravID christenrunge

Dana said...

Beautiful pattern! And I love the story behind the yarn. As a spinner I know how much time goes into handspun,but the results are so worth it! Box of Chocolates is my favorite of the three. ddboots on Rav.

Dana11811 said...

Beautiful Shawl! Love the Box of Chocolate colorway.
Ravelry = DanaRT

Carla said...

wow - it is just beautiful and that yard really makes it! I think I love the Iris best- Congratulations -Carla aka bloglesscarla on Rav

MommaJude said...

Love all the colors, but the box of chocolates is my favorite!

Rav: MommaJude

Anonymous said...

I love purple! I would chose Iris Gardens.
redbayknits (rav id)

Djung Tran said...

Hi Susan,

I just started following your blog and enjoy it immensely. You are so readable! I love the touted versatility of the prairie ridge shawl, esp. being able to tie it behind your back. I've been meaning to make a shawl with that design element. If I'm the lucky winner of the kit I would chose to knit it up in Autumnal!

(BTW, I've been knitting up your topsy-turvy toys and have been having a lot of fun with it. I'll have to post the latest projects to Ravelry!)

Djung253 on Ravelry

Lila B said...

What a wonderful pattern - you have every right to be very proud of it. I have to say the Iris Garden colorway is my favorite, but then again I am a sucker for all things purple. Great Job!
cryla1009 (Rav)

Mim said...

Love, love the shawl in all three colors. It will be hard to choose a color. I'm mim on Ravelry.

Anonymous said...

First, I love your enthusiasm! I must knit one in Autumnal - thought they are all gorgeous! Your post was interesting and no matter if I win or not, I am getting this kit! Her yarn is just beautiful.

Ravelry ID - Mackieb
Becky from Michigan

Mamacass said...

This is gorgeous! I have never wanted to knit a shawl so badly. I love all the colorways, but I think Box of Chocolates is my favorite! Please pick me!!

mamacass on Rav
cassie.marion@vigocounty.in.gov

Taloferia said...

Wow, that really is an amazing price for handspun! What a great project for you to be involved in.
I have to say, that Box of Chocolates colour is calling my name :)
Tamara
(taloferia on Ravelry)

Taloferia said...

Wow, that is a really amazing price for handspun! And what a great project for you to be involved in. I have to say, that Box of Chocolates colour is calling my name...
:)
Tamara
taloferia on Ravelry

Unknown said...

The shawl design is gorgeous!! The yarn and design are an amazing combo!! I love the Iris Garden colorway!!
My Ravelry ID is JessiesGirl84
Thanks for a chance to win!!

Robyn said...

The design is wonderful, and all the colors are just beautiful! It would be hard to choose. Thanks for giving some background info on Infinite Twist and on the women who spin the yarn. It all comes together to make a very special shawl!

Rav: yarncharmer

Anonymous said...

What an awesome pattern and yarn combo! I would love the autumnal colorway. Thanks for the pattern and the giveaway! I am MissJR on ravelry.

Reneelynn said...

The design is beautiful!!
I would pick the Iris Garden.
So interesting to hear the back story of the yarn. How wonderful that these women can find a way to lift their families into a better way of life! Thanks Susan.
R.lang@live.com

Kristina said...

Love this! Box of chocolates is my favorite! I'm kristinang on ravelry. :)

Kristina said...

Love this! Box of chocolates is my favorite. I'm kristinang on ravelry. :) (sorry if this came through twice!)

Ashley said...

Thank you so much for this giveaway! The shawl is beautiful. My favorite color would have to be Iris Garden, but they're all amazing.
ashleym103 on Ravelry

Karen M said...

The shawl pattern it beautiful. Congratulations on the design. I love the autumnal colorway. I hope I win. I am karenmollung on Ravelry.

Kelsie B said...

Oh sooo beautiful!! I love the Autumnal color way. I would be so ecstatic if I won this! I just love your giveaways! Your designs are wonderful.

Rav ID: soonerknitter

Kathy Guenther said...

kathysfibers@gmail.com
I would love to win this!

TracyK said...

Beautiful! Lovely shawl and what a great story behind Infinite Twist. I think I would pick Iris Garden - I'm partial to purple. Thanks to you & Cate for your generosity. RavID - elephantsknit

Kathy Guenther said...

I would love to win this! kathysfibers@gmail.com

Marisa said...

Looks wonderful!! Like candy mmmm
Would love to get my hands on that.
Loladietcola on the Rav

Thanks for the contest :-)

cutter said...

Beautiful! I do want to squish that ball of yarn...it looks yummy! Thanks for sharing the story on the yarn! My favourite would also be the Irish garden! Susan.cutt@gmail.com or suecutt on ravelry. Thanks and happy fall!

T.M. said...

Absolutely lovely. And I love the shot where it looks to be hanging in mid-air. I would love to have this in box of chocolate. A beautiful addition to anyones' wardrobe. Thanks for the chance!
Knitsensei on Ravelry.

susanjd said...

beautiful shawl - might have to try it with my own handspun. but if I was so lucky to win the give away, it would be iris garden, without question

Nancy/Aizome said...

Beautiful shawl, yarn, photos in nature, and I'm in love with that beautiful spinning wheel!

Anonymous said...

It is so pretty and I would love to knit I the autuminal, please pick me.

Anonymous said...

I LOVE the idea of helping to support women in poor communities to make a living through craft, so I think this yarn company sounds great! (I recently backed a Kickstarter project that had a similar aim.)

I'd LOVE to win a kit!

- liciniac from ravelry

susanjd said...

oops forgot to add my rav id: susanjd

woolmix said...

Lovely, and the Box of Chocolates colourway is just delicious.

Mae said...

Love the drape of your shawl design - with just a touch of ruffle on the edge. Yarn is beautiful.

Laura said...

OMG, what a beautiful shawl, and I loved reading about Zuo and Infinite Twist. They're all beautiful but I think Autumnal is my favorite. Thanks so much for the opportunity to win a kit! :)

swift-knits on ravelry

Anne said...

What a lovely story and yarn. I would love to do the Iris. I love my Quaker Ridge, so I know I will like this pattern too. Rav ID is annealden

Anonymous said...

I would love to win this! Thanks for the opportunity! My Rav ID is daphnelee

Bonney said...

Perfect for this time of year and right through the winter! I love the Iris Garden color. Very rich and happy! Congrats on another lovely pattern!

KnittingBetsy said...

Hi Susie,
Congratulations on your new shawl pattern with this handspun yarn. I have never knit with handspun but it really does look perfectly squishy and luscious! I'm also glad to know that buying this yarn supports a co-op of spinners.
My favorite color is definitely the Iris Heather. The color variation looks really beautiful. Thanks to you and Cate for providing this giveaway.
Betsy in the Seattle suburbs

Feffer said...

The shawl is so beautiful! And the colorway brings back memories of my college days in Wisconsin and the beautiful prairies I loved so much.

Jennifer (jenb69 on Rav)

Beth Fitch said...

So beautiful love the way it drapes. The yarn is incredible and very interesting background story. Love all the colors. I think autumnal is my favorite.
Thanks for the generous giveaway!

Biscottibeth on ravelry

Valerie said...

Beautiful and the yarn sounds amazing. I love the Iris Garden color.

Jess Mooers said...

So beautiful! Especially love the prairie in the background. Must be the arboretum! I'd love to win :)

Jess Mooers said...

So beautiful! Especially love the prairie in the background. Must be the arboretum! I'd love to win :)

Michelle said...

lovely! just lovely. Quique on rav

Charles said...

I love this shawl and the story with it. I have a friend who grew up in China. She is a knitter but won't spend much money for yarn. I would love to gift her this kit! Kristincarlson on Ravelry

Valerie said...

Beautiful shawl and amazing yarn. Love the Iris Garden color.

Anonymous said...

It is beautiful!!! I love the Iris colourway, so pretty. Thanks for another awesome give a way.

rav id - mommytofive

Jill C. said...

That pattern looks like it would be fun to knit--enough interest to keep your attention yet I won't have to read a chart for every stitch--hooray! The Autumnal colorway would make a great gift shawl for my mom (I swear, from Sept.-Nov. she works the word "autumnal" into every conversation.
RavID: nmujillybean

Unknown said...

Wow! This new shawl is so beautiful and I love the story of Infinite Twist! It would be an honor to knit with this yarn, I love the box of chocolate colorway, mmmmmmm, chocolate! Thanks for another great pattern and introduction to an amazing yarn company!
PatriciaLovesYarn
jwandpjc@yahoo.com

Unknown said...

Wow! This new shawl is so beautiful and I love the story of Infinite Twist! It would be an honor to knit with this yarn, I love the box of chocolate colorway, mmmmmmm, chocolate! Thanks for another great pattern and introduction to an amazing yarn company!
PatriciaLovesYarn
jwandpjc@yahoo.com

Maureen said...

I love knowing that sales of this yarn support women in China. It's hard to choose a favourite colour, but I'll go with Box of Chocolates. Teachermom on ravelry

Christine Lima said...

Box of chocolates!!! I love the name and I can see it going with so much of my wardrobe!

fionafae said...

That yarn is absolutely stunning and I can see why you are so excited about it! I love your shawl; those colorways are all gorgeous but I think I like Iris best.
Ravelry: fionafae
Email: fionafae @ gmail . com

Creative Design said...

Zuos story is the best part of your lovely post today! Any woman who has been down on their luck or has found themselves not able to rub two pennies together, can understand Zuo and her family!

Lovely yarns and another beautiful pattern from you, Susan. You both will have great success with this kit!

Best,
Sheila
http://www.ravelry.com/designers/sheila-zachariae

Becky said...

Such a gorgeous shawl. I love the purple color.

Becky (gathersnomoss)

fionafae said...

I can see why you are so excited about this yarn; it is stunning! And your shawl is beautiful! I love all the colorways, but Iris looks so beautiful!

Ravelry: fionafae
Email: fionafae@gmail.com

Hannah said...

Another beautiful design and the yarn looks amazing! I love the Autumnal color way but also Iris Garden. Hope I win!
Hannah
Purlbuckeye on Ravelry

Unknown said...

What an amazing story about this beautiful yarn, and your shawl is stunning!
sassykrafty on Ravelry

Robby said...

Another lovely design just in time for fall weather. I love that you compared the cost/value of the kit to another of your designs and the yarn used. The perspective is helpful, and makes it all the easier to consider supporting a local artisan, even if they aren't local to me. ;^)

I'm crazy for that Iris Garden, but I might have to start with Box of Chocolates for my sister. A richness of decisions.

FiberChef on Ravelry

kathy h said...

The story behind all yarn can be the best part of the knitted project. Love this give-a-way.

Sylvia said...

Thank you for the chance to win such a lovely yarn and pattern combo. Interesting story, too. All the colors are pretty, but Iris garden is calling to me!

Ravelry: SylviePB

Anonymous said...

Gorgeous shawl, and gorgeous handspun! I really love the Autumnal color way.

mrsmcelrath on Rav

Mary C. said...

The shawl is beautiful! All 3 colors are wonderful but I guess that Autmnal would be may favorite.

Mcknits on Rav

Veganrocks said...

I am so excited to try this yarn! I'll be purchasing a kit regardless if I win or not. I think my two sisters (and me!) need a Prairie Ridge shawl!

Anonymous said...

The Infinite Twist yarn looks beautiful, the Autumnal color seems so perfect for this time of year.
Rav - knitgineering

Muffie said...

Beautiful shawl and the color choices outstanding. Muffie28

Stamura said...

Another give away-- Susan you are spoiling us!!! Really two in one ... Pattern and yarn! Thanks so much for offering this. The yarn looks so squishy and what a great match for the pattern!!! Thanks you!!!
Meg(rav: stamura)

Unknown said...

The shawl, the yarn, the story are all very intriguing. Thanks for your enthusiasm and excellent dsigns. Please include me in the contest to win a kit. Rav ID: ClaudiaJane or email cjane51@gmail.com
Claudia

kimrknits said...

Looks like a perfect shawl for the chilly Alaska days ahead!

Stamura said...

Another give away-- Susan you are spoiling us!!! Really two in one ... Pattern and yarn! Thanks so much for offering this. The yarn looks so squishy and what a great match for the pattern!!! Thanks you!!!
Meg(rav: stamura)

Anonymous said...

Lovely shawl, wonderful colorways. Iris Garden is my favorite. Thank you for the kind giveaways!
Rav ID bdgrammy

Anonymous said...

Love this pattern, Susan! This is a perfect marriage of pattern and yarn. It's really tough to choose, but I think I would go for Iris Garden - it is stunning!
cehermanator on Rav

Kathleen said...

Beautiful shawl pattern, Susan! Thanks for sharing the story behind Infinite Twist! I adore the Iris Garden color way. :) Thanks for this awesome giveaway!

katbetty on Ravelry

joyce said...

I love to not only knit but wear beautiful handmade shawls. The beautiful Prairie Ridge Shawl in the yummy infinite twist is definitely a must knit in the iris color.
After visiting Shanghai, I am can totally appreciate and visualize these women working hard on this hand spun yarn. jmdflower758@gmail.com

RiverCitySTL said...

The pattern is gorgeous, love the Iris colourway.
Rivercitystl on Rav

Karen said...

Congratulations! Both the yarn and shawl are beautiful!

Sheri said...

Oh Iris Garden is my favorite. Just love that color, although all 3 are beautiful.

Rav. ID: Craftyslm

Karen said...

Congratulations! Both the yarn and shawl are beautiful!

Anonymous said...

Beautiful shawl. I think my favorite color way is chocolate. Thanks for sharing the back story as well.

Anita Themer
Anitat on Ravelry

Donna said...

Love the shawl and the yarn. Box of chocolate would be my favorite.
Donna22 on Rav

JackieLemon said...

Beautiful shawl and yarn. It is an inspiring story. All the colors look gorgeous but the cooler weather and changing leaves make Autumnal really speak to me.

Zytigg said...

Iris Garden is my favorite color of purple. Zytigg on Ravelry

Kathy said...

The Iris Garden would be my first choice, but the Autumnal is a very close runner up.

kathyg on Rav

Rae Lynne said...

I love my QRS and this looks like another great shawl, Susan! Congratulations on this coming out! :) I'm really drawn to the Box of Chocolates kit, but seeing as how Fall is on our heels, I really and loving Autumnal as well. :)

Thanks for the opportunity!
raelynne01 on Rav

Pam K said...

How fun to see a new shawl from you at the perfect time. The yarns are so beautiful. I think my favorite is the Iris Garden. Purple is a favorite color. Thanks for offering this opportunity and for continuing to create great patterns.
Pam K. Ravid= pamk.

Unknown said...

What a wonderful pattern that is in a heavier weight and hand spun to boot. I would love to have Iris garden, but I honestly would take them all if I could. Beautiful job!

Leanne
RavID: stileslea

Christine-Bellylaugher said...

Congratulations and I love how you are helping to empower women all over the world!

Life is like a Box of chocolates, indeed!

BellyLaugher on Rav

Ana said...

The yarn looks amazing and I'm glad you pointed out the halo on your blocked shawl...so beautiful. If I win this, it will be the BEST 50th Birthday present for myself EVER! Box of Chocolates, yes?
Ana
anahuron@gmail.com

Benessi said...

I agree, all colorways look absolutely stunning! My favorite is "box of chocolates".

ScottieGirl Knits said...

Thanks for a new shawl design! Love the look when it's tied in the back. Iris Gardens is my favorite, purples all the way. I am happy to hear about lives being changed thru fiber arts. May God bless ya'll.

ScottieGirl1 on Rav

bookagent said...

Love the new design. Congratulations on teaming up with Infinite Twist, they have a great story and I'm sure folks will support them. I love the Autumnal colorway, just my color! Thanks for the giveaway.
Rav Id: bookagent
Pam

Mary Jo said...

Love prairie ridge--I saw it on ravelry yesterday and I love how the iris color reflects the purple of the prairie flowers. but I would have to say the chocolate color would be the one I would knit a shawl in.
you are right this kit price is fantastic less than $100 for handspun yarn plus it is supporting women like Zou. fantastic deal!!

Diana said...

Wow! This shawl is absolutely beautiful. I would love to knit this with this yarn.

Rav ID: Diana505

debbies said...

Beautiful shawl! Lovely colors. Thanks for the chance to win.

ElishaC said...

Oops...ecram on ravelry

Julia Wittenhagen said...

I love the look of Iris Garden. It looks georgeous with the new shawl design.
Rav ID: Colorfulknitting
Julia

joolee said...

Beautiful shawl and beautiful yarn and story - thanks for sharing!

joolee on Ravelry

susieqhammer said...

Well Susan, you have done it once again! Your design is stunning and I love that it can be worn in so many different ways. Iris garden would be my pick if I were to win your generous giveaway!
susie@tomhammerfarms.com


Jane said...

Congratulations on your beautiful shawl. Love the colorway and the drape of the yarn. Simply gorgeous.

massgirlinsocal on Ravelry

remmy said...

What a wonderful shawl... The Infinite Twist yarn seems great. I think I'd go for the Autumnal.

Remmy on Ravelry

Vicki said...

Prairie Ridge is a lovely design. And Iris Garden is a great choice of yarn color! I like that the shawl is shorter and rounded in the back since I am a "vertically challenged" lady - I won't be sitting on it! Another great design!

knuts2knit on Ravelry

Knitschmidt Kate said...

What a great story behind the yarn company! It's beautiful and I LOVE the box of chocolates colourway. And the shawl... I made Quaker Ridge last fall with extra repeats to make it bigger and it's one of my favorites! Now a similar style in worsted? Perfect!

knitschmidt on ravelry

IloriKnits said...

Love it :). I only hope to be as awesome as you one day ;). I love all the colorways but I think Iris Garden is my favorite.

Rav Id- IloriKnits

~*Lacey

Unknown said...

beautiful shawl
beautiful yarn

awesome giveaway!

luvsknittin on Ravelry

Anonymous said...

ok, love this yarn and the story behind it. I love your pattern. been itching to work on another shawl. Did you know there are only 13 more Saturdays of knitting till Christmas???? xo

I am valuable on ravelry
and sweetpeaquilts@yahoo.com

thanks and Happy Fall.

Elo said...

Love the shawl and the opportunity to win a kit.
dingledaisy on Ravelry

Elo said...

Love the shawl and the opportunity to win a kit.
dingledaisy on Ravelry

sharonathemom said...

The shawl is beautiful. I love all three colorways, but first choice, at this moment, would be the autumnal.

rav: sharonathemom

AnaCecilia said...

The shawl is amazing!!! I think the color I like best is Box of Chocolates!! Thank you!!!
Ana Cecilia
Rav id pajara

AnaCecilia said...

Thanks for a beautuful pattern!!! I love Chocolates Box colorway!
Ana Cecilia (pajara in Ravelry)

neurasthenia said...

Absolutely gorgeous pattern- your hard work has really paid off!

I love the Autumnal colorway. :)

My Rav ID is neurasthenia

Word Lily said...

I love the Iris Garden! Handspun is awesome.

WordLily on Rav

Peggity said...

Hi Susan - I love that you've designed a worsted-weight shawl similar to the Quaker Ridge Shawlette that we had so much fun KAL-ing. A worsted-weight shawl is just what I've been thinking about with fall on the way. I think I like the Box of Chocolates the best - it is rustic and fall-ish and gorgeous; and different from anything I already have! Thanks for the opportunity to win the kit.

Greg said...

Wow! That is a beautiful shawl, and the yarn looks amazing. All three of the colors look exciting -- I like them all! If I knit up this pattern, I'd do it for my wife, so I'd want her input on the color she'd like, but I think I'm particularly drawn to the Box of Chocolates.

Looking forward to seeing more designs in this yarn!

-greg, drmellow on Ravelry

Anonymous said...

Beautiful.
Rav ID: Georgia70

penny said...

Gorgeous patten and yarn! I never can resist a "Box of Chocolates"!
Mzpennyb on Ravelry

cindymen said...

Choosing one will be difficult! Such a wonderful and beautiful project.

Cindymen on Ravelry

Susan said...

Wow! What a beauty! Would love to win the Bix of Chocolates.

Ravelry: SuuzzeeQ

Anonymous said...

The pattern is beautiful and the yarn looks very soft and wonderful! I think my fav color is Autumnal.
It would make a yummy shawl!
rav id is melsparks

Moru said...

I absolutely adore your design! It looks like that year in development really paid off! :) I love the Box of Chocolates colorway, and I'd love the chance to make the shawl with it.
Email; Mon.littlefield@gmail.com
Rav id: morux

Moru said...

I absolutely adore your design! It looks like that year in development really paid off! :) I love the Box of Chocolates colorway, and I'd love the chance to make the shawl with it.
Email; Mon.littlefield@gmail.com
Rav id: morux

Betsey said...

Oh my goodness! What a beautiful design and that yarn looks incredible! I would love to feel Prairie Ridge knit up in it and I think box of chocolates is my favorite!!! Thanks to Infinite Twist and you, Susan, for a chance to win!

betseyreed on Ravelry

Unknown said...

Love the new pattern and I think it would be beautiful in the Autumnal colorway.

swtblu on Rav

Savannagal said...

I just love Autumnal and Chocolates. So gorgeous! Thanks for introducing me to Infinite Twist. I love hand spun yarn, but I don't know how to spin.

adodds said...

The Infinite Twist yarn is very interesting. Love that it is hand spun and the colors of the kit are gorgeous. Love that Box of Chocolate. I bet it i s even more exquisite I person. Thanks for highlighting this great yarn and company.
Anita
Skibum on Ra

little olive said...

My favorite color would have to be autumnal. I love this shawl. rav id: thishandmadelife

Danae said...

The shawl and the yarn are gorgeous. I absolutely love the Autumnal colorway. RavID: sparrowandnight

Camanoah said...

I love supporting cooperatives like Infinite Twist. I think I would prefer the colorway Box of Chocolates. Thanks for the opportunity. RavID: Camanoah

Jennifer Grant said...

Wow, I'm not big on shawls because I've never seen a design I really like. This one is gorgeous, the color is beautiful, and it lays perfectly! LOVE the Autumnal!
maniloonie@hotmail.com

linda in chicagoland said...

Love the design! All of the colors are fabulous.
Pawsandknit knit on Rav

Jules said...

What a great design and kit. I would love to win, but if I don't win, I will probably buy it anyway. :) RVID: Tanknit

Anonymous said...

Beautiful yarn and a lovely shawl. I love the Box of Chocolates!
(rav rspeckha)

Sheila said...

What a great project! And a lovely shawl, if I win I definitely want Iris Garden.

Anonymous said...

Gorgeous yarn and amazing story--so very inspiring!

foofymonkey on Ravelry

Bonnie said...

I love the generous size of your shawl pattern. I'd love the Box of Chocolates yarn. Beautiful!

stash haus said...

Gorgeous! And those colors are stunning! I like all three colors. My Ravelry ID is stashhaus.

janna e said...

I love all three colors but I think the Autumnal is my favorite. What a great project!
wee on ravelry

Yowela@hotmail.com said...

Susan, the pattern is great! The yarn is gorgeous, and I am hoping to feel it in my hands :)

Unknown said...

What an amazing story(ies)! Iris Garden would of course be my choice should I be lucky enough to win. Congratulations Susan! TeresaRRoberts Rav id

Anonymous said...

I'm a relatively new knitter and love following you on your blog. My favorite would be Iris Garden. Thank you for the giveaway.

Sandy at Chamransan@aol.com

Eenae said...

This shawl and yarn is a lovely combo! Great photos and I loved the profile of one of the spinners! Would love a chance to win and thanks for another great pattern, Susan.

Rav Id: Eenae

Sandy Woodley said...

Very pretty shawl. I like all the colors, but think my favorite would be autumnal. Great color for fall.

Eenae said...

The yarn and pattern are gorgeous and I loved the spinner profile. Thanks for the chance to win too, Susan!

Rav ID: Eenae

karen alho said...

How beautiful!And what a wonderful tale!

rav. id. intavira

KimmyZ said...

Susie, your Prairie Ridge Shawl is lovely, and I can almost feel that yarn from your great pics. I especially enjoyed your bio on Zuo, and the story about the other talented spinners in China. I'm drawn to the colorway that you chose for yourself, but I'll let you decide what color I should make, if you should choose me for the kit giveaway. As you can see from my Ravelry pages, it's about time I made a shawl! I especially like the way you wear it tied in the back. Thanks for the videos too! Great shawl design that compliments the yarn perfectly. Hugs, KimmyZ (Rav ID)

mary said...

I love supporting yarn companies that help artisans in less fortunate situations. Cate's efforts are definitely to be commended and I loved seeing and reading about Zuo. It's exciting to see who is actually creating the yarn! I love the autumnal colorway.

rav: dimsumknitter

Sandra said...

Another gorgeous design, Susan! And the yarn look yummy! Thanks for the chance to win one of these kits.
Rav ID: istitchfast

The Alaska Venhauses said...

I love this new pattern and the yarn looks beautiful!
Carolyn (crazy8mom on ravelry)

Christine said...

This shawl is gorgeous and the yarn seems yummy...I loved the way you tied it! didn't know that one.

I love all the colors and am wondering if its name is influencing me: Box of Chocolates!

Rav ID: QuimicaChica

isabel said...

Thank you for introducing me to Infinite Twist! A yarn I hope to get to experience sometime SooN! Your new design is so sweet...

rav= smiling-tortoise

Isabel

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