I'm so excited to share the style options for our upcoming make-along, slated to kick off at the beginning of April. At Knit Collage, we host two make-alongs (MALs) a year and they are what myself and the small yet mighty team here lives for. We work on these events behind the scenes all year long. During our MALs, we connect with other makers, knit and crochet in community, cheer each other on, learn new techniques and finish with an heirloom to treasure for years to come. In a completely non-preachy way, I also put a self care bent on the MAL and focus on how good making things and creativity are for us. There will be events centered around diving deep into your most creative self. The design winners are chosen by popular vote so here is your chance to have your voice heard and counted. Feel free to share with friends! I would so appreciate your help and input to make this our best to date. If any of these intimidate you - please keep in mind that I teach you how to knit and crochet each style from start to finish in an online class that is yours forever. Last fall, many knitters tackled their first sweater ever and many tried crochet for the very first time!  More photos and a description of each design below too.

 
Spring Make-along Design Survey

Option 1: Lotus Sweater by Julia Norris
Knit up in Spun Cloud Light and Wildflower Minis

The Lotus Sweater is a timeless boat neck construction featuring a high-low hem that accentuates the waistline in the front while offering more coverage in the back—the perfect fit for leggings or Bermuda shorts. The statement front panel features an intarsia column of colorful “Lotus Stitches” flanked by two bands of “Wheat Stitches” that offer texture and interest to this otherwise classic, coastal silhouette. Light, airy and breathable, this pullover is the perfect companion for evening walks on the beach and outdoor dining in a light summer breeze.

Option 2: Lotus Pillow by Julia Norris
Knit up in Spun Cloud Light and Wildflower Minis

The Lotus Pillow is a companion to the Lotus Sweater and the perfect statement piece for any room in the home that could use a little pop of color and texture! The 16’’ / 40 cm pillow is knit flat in two pieces and then joined together using an applied i-cord binding. The statement front panel features an intarsia column of colorful “Lotus Stitches” flanked by two bands of “Wheat Stitches” that offer textural and visual interest. Colorful tassels pull the piece together for a one-of-a-kind home décor item you won’t find anywhere else! 

Option 3: Over the Top Shoulder Hug by Cheryl Kubat
Knit up in Waterfall yarn or a mix of Spun Cloud and Wildflower minis

Introducing the epitome of versatile elegance, our top-down raglan V-neck shrug is a timeless design with two distinct sleeve options, catering to your style preferences. The first option features gracefully cascading bell sleeves, adding a touch of whimsy to your ensemble. Alternatively, opt for the second sleeve style, a classic, straight, cuffed option that works in any wardrobe. This shrug's top-down construction ensures a seamless and personalized fit, while the V-neck adds a flattering neckline. Whether the bell sleeve resonates with you or the timeless appeal of the straight cuff, this shrug provides the perfect canvas for expressing your individuality.

Option 4: Frolic Flower Shawl by Amy Small
Crocheted in Wildflower and Waterfall yarns

The Frolic Shawl is a simple crochet pattern designed to be a patchwork of four different flower shapes in a mix of Waterfall and Wildflower yarns! After crocheting all of the flowers, stitch them together in either a triangle shawl or long scarf and wear with love.

Option 5: Briar Rose Sweater by Vanessa Reyes
Crocheted and knit up in Spun Cloud Light, Serenity and Wildflower minis

Gather your needles and hooks, and let the Briar Rose Sweater take you on a journey through a fairytale world of fashion, fantasy, and fiber. Whether you’re an experienced crocheter or novice knitter, this design combines the best of both crafts. The details are not only wearable art, but a wonderful way to learn an array of crochet granny square patterns and stitch techniques. Flutter sleeves and lace-up bodice add a touch of romance to this dreamy garment, making it the perfect addition to infuse a bit of whimsical inspiration to any wardrobe. This sweater is sure to turn heads, whether you're wearing it out for a walk in the woods or twirling at your favorite fiber festival.

Option 6: Flower Power Market Bag by Julia Norris
Knit up in Wildflower yarns

A French market bag with a flower-tastic twist! While crochet versions of the classic market bag abound, this version is entirely knit - even the flowers! The perfect companion for a day at the beach, picking up fresh loaves of sourdough from the Farmers’ Market or a sweater quantity of yarn from your Local Yarn Store.

Option 7: Over the Top V Neck Sweater by Cheryl Kubat
Knit up in Waterfall yarn

A gorgeous raglan V neck design with two sleeve options, straight or bell, knit up in our most springy, drippy yarn, Waterfall! 

Option 8: Mystery Block Blanket by Cheryl Kubat
Knit up in Spun Cloud

Learn a new stitch with each block in the mystery stitch block sampler blanket. With six different colors of Spun Cloud and a different texture to each block, your blanket will resemble a beautiful patchwork of interest and fun. This blanket begs to be draped over a couch, accompanying a favorite lounge chair, or adorning a bed - wherever you want to amplify the coziness of your space in style. 

Option 9: Maisie Crochet Sweater by Jo Wadler
Crocheted in Spun Cloud and Wildflower yarn

The Maisie Crochet Cardi, designed by Jo Wadler, is an ode to our shared love of granny squares. I love how this cardi feels reminiscent of a vintage crochet afghan but turned on its head and made into a sweater! Add in the modern twist in our yarns and these colors and, boom welcome to one show stopping cardi. LOVE. 

Option 10: Crochet Patchwork Sweater by Amy Small
Knit and Crocheted in Spun Cloud and Wildflower yarns

The Crochet Patchwork Sweater pattern is a unique and pretty design that combines simple crochet and knitting for the ultimate patchwork style. The fit is boxy and cozy with drop shoulders. Scalloped crochet adorns the neckline and bottom edges for a pretty yet sturdy finish. Have fun striping in contrast colors and yarns on the sleeves and crochet edging as desired!

Option 11: Everyday Yay Cardi by Laurel Gervitz
Knit up in Spun Cloud, embroidered in Wildflower minis

The Everyday Yay Cardi is your go to cardi to wear over just about everything in your closet! Knit from the top down with a raglan construction, it's simple to knit and stunning to wear. This pattern comes with two options - add your own cross stitch embroidery or just leave it blank and go solid. This design is knit with our Spun Cloud yarn, embroidery in Wildflower. This pattern is super beginner friendly and perfect for anyone who wants to try to knit their very first sweater.

Option 12: The Free Spirit Cami By Ksenia
Knit up in Waterfall yarn

Inspired by early summer mornings in the wild, long days at outdoor festivals, and magical evenings near campfires under open skies, the Free Spirit Cami brings a breath of freedom to a summer wardrobe. Although the yarn plays the first chair in this design, it has plenty of added visual interest with Lateral braids, simple lace, and optional fringe.

The cami is worked from the top down, starting with two front triangles completed flat, and then the body knitted in the round. The straps can be attached to the camisole in a few different ways, making the pattern more versatile.

Option 13: Sunbeam Stripe Sweater by Cheryl Kubat
Knit up in Spun Cloud and Mini Skein Sampler yarns

Last but not least, meet the Sunbeam Stripe Cardi. Let your inner artist run wild with the Sunbeam Stripe Cardi Pattern. It's all about mixing yarns, colors and textures in a way that resonates with you as you knit. It's also a whole lot of fun! Scraps of yarn or our Mini Skein Sampler Kits are ideal for this pattern. It's up to you to make it your own!

Thank you so much for letting me know your faves! I so hope you'll vote and if you feel called to, join me in the upcoming MAL (make-along!). To be the first to know about the MAL, sign up for updates here.  I'd also love to hear from you in the comments below. What piques your interest? Would you make more than one? I'll be doing ALL of them and would so love to have you join me!

Big hugs,

Amy