A knitting commission completed!

Just before Christmas I was commissioned to knit a blanket and two cushion fronts to accent custom-upholstered chairs and a couch. The blanket was to be 4' x 6'; each of the cushion fronts 24" square. I was given samples of the upholstery fabrics and, with my client, picked out a dozen commercial wool and mohair yarns in colours from the fabrics. My plan was to use the same yarns in the three pieces, but different texture stitches and patterns.

The two cushion fronts

Blanket with patterned and plain upholstery fabrics

The blanket makes use of the various textures and colours of the yarns in narrow horizontal stripes. The challenge was to make it "good both sides," ie. to have no "back" showing ends and joins. The first cushion front takes a pattern from one of the upholstery fabrics and enlarges it into a dramatic swirl. The second cushion has undulating vertical stripes, some of which narrow and disappear, and dots or bubbles to connect with the fabric. 

The cushion fronts will be mounted onto woven fabric and professionally sewn into cushion covers. I look forward to seeing them in their new home!

For the spring and summer...

Cotton, viscose and silk ponchette (long)

Silk ponchette (short)

I have designed and knitted a range of mini ponchos - ponchettes! - in cotton, silk, and similar summery yarns. They are perfect to dress up a T-shirt, pop on over a tank top in an air-conditioned cafe, or tuck inside the neck of your jacket when spring turns its back on us. Everyone who works in an artificially cooled office should have one of these ready to hand! They come in a range of colours, lengths, and yarns, and can be custom ordered. Prices range from $60 to $90 (incl. tax) depending on yarn and size. 

These little accessories are designed and created in Toronto, but the yarns are made overseas. 

Launching a new business

I'm very excited to finally launch Provenance Yarns and Textiles - a business dedicated to producing slow fashion from local sources. My business has three main focuses:

Bedspread, partially handspun, designed and knitted by Julia Lee

• Custom spinning, especially unique yarns made from your pet's fur. Almost any yarn that you would like produced, I can spin it! 
• Custom knitting designed to your unique specifications. Whether you want a garment, an accent piece, a household textile, or a piece of wall art, I can knit it!
• Spinning lessons and workshops. I teach privately and to small groups in the Toronto area.

If there's any way I can help you, please get in touch.

I'll post news and photos of ongoing projects, so check back often!