I can't believe this is already the 4th FO in my UFO/WIP pile.
Pattern: Lingonberry Shawl (Rav Link) Yarn: Giovanna Imperia Yarns 5 strands "River" and 1 strand "Cocco" held together. Needle: US Size 3
This was a sample knitting commissioned by Giovanna Imperia Yarns (website). Per request by the company, I chose few free patterns of shawlettes.
First two shawls were done within few weeks. This one however, took MONTHS.
From knitting the second shawl which uses the same line of yarn, but less strands held together and in a different color, I knew that I would have easier time if I held more strands together. The yarn on the cone as is is thinner than cobweb, and kind of "sticky" because of mohair mixed in it. The yarn is very inelastic due to linen and silk. Multiple strands and a little bit of twist gave a bit of elasticity and allowed me to use bigger needles.
Linen/mohair/wool/silk blend yarn made a very lightweight but summer appropriate shawl. I loved the texture of the fabric after blocking. It was crisp but not rough. It was hairy but not itchy. And the pink. It was divine.
I don't know if the yarn will be commercially available for knitters.. I'm not sure. I do know that the company goes to tradeshows like TNNA and Stitches. In fact, the first two shawls I made were for the Stitches West earlier this year (2011).
This one will also be at another trade show soon.
4th project done! I am now working on a summer tee that I designed, and Auburn Sweater. Updates soon!