The Townhouse Doodler

We have another gorgeous finished shawl to share with you today - Jenny's version of Stephen West's "The Doodler".  This design has been getting a lot of attention in the shop, and it's easy to see why. The unique construction and clever use of colour both draw the eye, and the beautiful drape and butter-soft texture of Clarendon Sock create a wrap that you would never want to take off. Jenny used "Toffee Pop", "Mustard Seeds" and "Velvet" for her version and the effect is really striking.  There are so many stunning versions on Ravelry for colour inspiration too. We're particularly in love with bronze, teal and grey but there's no limit to the options really! It's fair to say that Stephen West is a truly unique knitting pattern designer. He embraces colour and texture wholeheartedly and his designs are created with a true sense of fun and adventure.  He frequently encourages knitters to push their boundaries and to see yarn as something to be played with. And if you love this approach then his latest music video is sure to make you smile! If all that pop is a little too much for you though, then we would still encourage you to look at some of Stephen's designs in a more pared backlight. A case in point is Enchanted Mesa - a stash busting sweater design, with short rows and funky eyelets that draw attention to the changes in colour and texture. Then look again at versions by MelleChou and KatiWoolF, and suddenly we are using words like "refined" and "elegant", rather than "wild" and "eye-catching". One approach may suit you more as a knitter, or you might love both. Either way, you can't argue that Stephen's designs are clever and versatile and more than worth paying attention to... Have you knit any of Stephen West's designs? Check out Stephen's latest Mystery Knitalong here. (If you're not too busy with our Spring KAL, that is!)