lost in the woods a knitwear collection
Julia GĂźnther, Robynn Weldon & Emily K Williams
Copyright © 2016 by Julia Günther, Emily K Williams and Robynn Weldon Layout & illustrations by Julia Günther Photos by Julia Günther, Sebastian Schnitzler and Petra Günther; Emily K Williams, Francis Williams and Friederike Winter; Robynn Weldon and Armin Rüede Technical editing by Emily K Williams and Steph Boardman Copywriting by Robynn Weldon Thanks to our pattern testers!
lost in the woods a knitwear collection
Once upon a time in the woods‌ Is there any place more suggestive than a forest? The sea and the mountains are full of power and wildness; but the woods harbour endless secrets. The forest is a place of mystery and magic, of refuge as well as danger. To be lost in the woods is to be embraced as well as free. To us, the three designers of this collection, the forest is our favourite place to escape and explore. We have drawn inspiration from the forests we live near, those we remember and those always in our imaginations. From snowy branches, bluebell woods, misty paths and sunlight through leaves. From treasures found and earthy surprises. We have translated that spirit into garments and accessories designed to wrap the wearer in the same joy and peace that we feel there. And now we offer it to you. Julia, Emily and Robynn
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Dou nduff by Emily K Williams
Angled lace rings suggest the mystery and magic of an aimless ramble in the woods. Around and around, you may never see the same path twice, yet you know you’re not truly lost. Enjoy the twists and turns that take you through short row yoke shaping, then proceed down the body in one piece, with optional bust darts. This deceptively simple, gently fitted jumper will embrace you perfectly.
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Thielenbruch by Julia Günther
Wrap yourself up in a densely textured shawl that suggests all the bounty of the forest: bark-like textures combine with acorn and berry patterns, all finished off with a leafy lace edging. As befits the forest life, it’s deceptively simple and highly practical – all the colourwork is achieved using just one colour per row, while the long crescent is the most wearable of shawl shapes.
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u nterholz by Robynn Weldon
This cowl uses layered and colour-shifting yarns to suggest the secrets and surprises of changing seasons; first buds, or layers of fallen leaves. The rhythmic stitch pattern is as satisfying and addictive as a walk in the woods, while creating a wonderfully squooshy fabric that traps air for maximum warmth. You can use two different colours, or play a colour-changing yarn against itself, as seen in the chunky version. The cowl is highly adaptable; besides the chunky or fingering weight versions shown, guidance is provided for choosing any weight of yarn.
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Drumashie by Emily K Williams
Lichen is a truly magical thing. Two very different elements working together create an enchanting whole that is more than the sum of its parts. Like the Old Man’s Beard that decorates this mysterious pine and juniper forest, mohair lace and cosy sock yarn combine in a clever twisted construction to create an ethereally beautiful hat that is also snug, warm, and (thanks to the insulating underlayer) absolutely itch-free.
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Wildbret by Julia GĂźnther
The forest can be a place of refuge and nourishment – quite literally, for legendary archer Robin Hood. This tunic features an arrowhead pattern and a graceful notched neckline. The front panel is worked in a mosaic pattern (using slipped stitches to create the colourwork and only one active yarn per row). Stitches are then picked up along the sides and the rest of the body is worked sideways, coming together in a three-needle cast-off at the centre back. The total effect is both modern and classic, simple and ornate.
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Braevall by Emily K Williams
As dreamy and romantic as the springtime woods, this cardigan features its very own bluebell carpet, sweeping out from a pleated lace insert. Gentle A-line shaping and dropped shoulders make it easy to wear, while optional bust darts ensure a perfect fit. This seamless cardigan is worked in one piece from the bottom up, with sleeves knit down from the armholes. Snap closures and a decorative ribbon-lined button band add the perfect finishing touch.
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Ruskanvalo by Julia Günther
Are you an adventurous knitting beginner, or someone who would like to knit something quick, yet interesting and gratifying? In that case these cuffs are for you! The textured fabric is created with very simple techniques: knits, purls, and different kinds of increases and decreases. A picot cast-off adds a cute feminine detail to the otherwise coarse look. My inspiration came from sunlit yellow autumn leaves, hence the name: “Ruska” is the Finnish word for that time of the year when the leaves change colours, while “valo” means light. 29
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Pravigan
by Robynn Weldon
Silvery lines float on a dark green background like snowy fir branches. Worked in an ethereal silk mohair blend at lace gauge, this oversized brioche scarf will envelop you in winter magic.
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Tannicht by Julia GĂźnther
Indulge your inner ranger with this jacket’s uniform styling and rustic textures. Careful detailing and multiple ways to wear it will make it a key part of your wardrobe.
The jacket is constructed from the top down with no seaming. Choose whimsical acorn buttons for a woodland feel, or vintage brass to underline the military tones.
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Anagach by Emily K Williams
Autumn’s slanted light brings out the forest’s glowing colours, even before the leaves turn, and the woods are more inviting than ever – but if you want to forage in the chilly season, it’s time to slip on some gloves. Stranded colourwork echoes these woodsy shades and provides maximum warmth; the thumb gusset increases are carefully incorporated into the stitch pattern, while the long wrists ensure no draughty gaps under your coat.
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regensberg by Robynn Weldon
Walking in the forest on a misty morning is the surest way to calm my mind and restore equilibrium. I aim to re-create that peace with this soft hug of a pullover, with its generous cowlneck, extra-long sleeves and gently wandering cables. Whether out in the woods or curled up on the sofa, it’s your wearable security blanket.
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Winterbeere by Robynn Weldon
Late winter forests, bare as they are, can be surprisingly full of interest – from the play of light through branches to pops of intense moss green or berry red. When you’re longing for spring, take another look at the quiet beauty uncovered by the melting snow. Winterbeere celebrates this time of year with subtle texture, inspired by shifting forest sunlight, and rich colour. The flattering A-line shape, constructed seamlessly from the top down, is as easy to wear as it is to knit, with gorgeous drape provided by the soft, papery silk-blend yarn. Layer up, or wear it alone when spring finally comes – it will see you through the whole year. 49
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