Fall is arguably the best season of the year for inspiration for knitters. While Spring boasts the color of fresh blossoms, Fall has the color of the leaves as they change color. This isn’t all though, as Fall also brings the desire to knit as the days get cooler and we have the urge to get comfy and warm. This picture of Mud Lake in Northern Wisconsin by Mike Crowley, almost transports you to the water’s edge in an Adirondack chair with a steaming cup of coffee or hot chocolate and your current knitting project!
It’s easy to overlook the textures of the Fall though, as the colors are so bright and vivid. This snap I took of some leaves on the street show some color, but what I actually like is the texture of the sidewalk they’re strewn across. I can see making a sweater with the same stone gray background in a dotted seed stitch texture that progresses to a color palette inspired by the leaves. I also like the subtle effect of calm brought on by the diffused coloration of the fallen leaves. It’s a perfect example how you can combine 2 sources (natural and man made) and also 2 elements into the same piece of knitting.
Speaking of texture, I came across some acorns scattered across the ground the other day. The caps had fallen off and crunched noisily under my shoes as I walked. When I stopped to look at what was making the sound, I immediately thought of making buttons with the caps of the acorns. Closer inspection of them revealed the rough gnarled texture they had and I thought a seed stitch cardigan with the cap buttons would be perfect. Or perhaps a rustic, manly cowl like scarf with the same buttons would be perfect.
I guess the thing to always remember when looking for inspiration is to stay open to everything and try looking at things with an almost naive mind. Don’t expect anything, just look and allow yourself to feel.
Hugzzz 😎
