Patterns Swirling in My Head

I've had patterns swirling in my head for months now. My computer files are filled to bursting with more colorwork patterns than I have been able to actually knit up. (Hint, hint - my upcoming book is about patterns.) Working on a book takes so long - there are so many layers of development. Although I am over a big hump, I've still got much more to do. It will be so long until I can reveal anything. I feel like I am keeping one giant secret from all of you!

I thought I would share some photos of pattern on pattern that help to stimulate my designing mind. When I have nothing left in my well, I open up a closet and take a look. I have a large collection of Indian block printed cloth. I've picked them up over the years at flea markets, Indian import stores, and Urban Outfitters. I love the handmade quality of this kind of fabric. They are inexpensive and fade to a lovely antique patina in a few washings. I use them on the daybed nook in the corner of the kitchen and on the kitchen table, changing them frequently to give a quick refresh to our home. They also make great throws for over a couch when the dogs are wet and dirty and I can catch them before they trash the upholstery. One look at their motifs and I can knock out a few more knitting charts.

I also like to collect old ceramics - I pick pots for their color mostly. After years of collecting, I have no room left, I fear. My pots look great with flowers in them. When the flowers are long gone, they still add cheer to the long winter months. I love the pots on my Indian fabrics - the unplanned combinations are always fun and unexpected visual feasts.


Here's a great painting Julia did in kindergarten. I don't know how they ever got her to sit still long enough to do it - maybe it was over several days. But I do love the pattern she painted and the colorful, wild, unplanned feeling it has. I could never do this - that's what I love about kids art - the spontaneous quality of it that adults just can't manage!


So now that my photo shoot is over, I've got to do some final editing on all the instructions I have already written up. Then there will be some more writing to do and working with the team at Soho Publishing who are publishing this next book of mine. I love seeing how a book comes together when others get involved.