The unusual yarn in this project was made from recycled saris, to which I added a strand of softer yarn to match its changing colors. I found this colorful yarn at Paradise Fibers in Spokane, and decided to knit two-stranded in order to add softness to the feeling against the skin and to balance out the uneven thickness of the recycled fibers. The pattern was discovered by a fellow knitter at Churchmouse Yarns on Bainbridge Island, and it quickly became a favorite quick-knit for all of us. The pattern designer described it as a capelet, poncho, cowl, infinity scarf, AND shoulder shrug - an incredibly versatile piece with so much rich texture and vibrant colors. Approximately 28" at the neck, widening to 38" diameter at the bottom, this multifunctional garment measures 18" from top to bottom. I knitted two-stranded as the three colorways developed, using the softest sections of recycled fiber for the neckline. In the first of three color blocks, I paired a heathered blue wool/mohair blend with the recycled-sari yarn; in the second, I incorporated a strand of fuschia angora yarn; for the third section, I chose a lime green mohair/silk strand to pair with the turquoise that showed up unexpectedly at the center of the skein. Simple but dramatic, incredibly versatile, and so unique - this is one of my favorite pieces, entirely sourced in the Pacific Northwest.
