When the opportunity appeared to test knit Isabell Kraemer’s Norte I jumped at it. I knew it would be the perfect way to satisfy my urge for a new colorwork yoke, with less commitment since it’s a chunky weight sweater. I chose to knit it in Tones because I couldn’t resist all the color options. This is Brooklyn Tweed’s new creation, dyed on over and under tones to produce pairs of light and deep colors. What could be better for a colorwork lover?
First about Norte. The pattern is chunky weight, which means it’s a very quick knit. There is definitely time to squeeze this in for cold weather wear this season. Norte is a great combination of simple with clever details that keep your attention. Isabelle suggests the Italian cast on and bind off. This is almost exactly the same as the Tubular with Kitchener stitch, just a slightly different sewing rhythm. If you’ve never done this type of cast on or bind off Norte is a great place to learn it. Her instructions are very clear, and there is a supporting video. And remember it’s chunky, so there are fewer stitches. The stretchy finish can’t be beat.
The sweater yoke has some added texture with purl bumps. This is such a simple detail, but it immediately adds an extra dimension. She uses lifted increases (with very clear instructions) that become almost invisible. The chunky gauge makes the body and sleeves fly by, I didn’t feel sleeve island on this one at all.
Chunky weight means you can hold two strands of worsted together. Hello Tones! I was immediately drawn to the gorgeous color options here, plus I love the warmth of a woolen spun yarn. The concept with Tones is that light and dark fibers are dyed separately. This produces pairs of light and dark colors - over and under tones, sunlight and shadow. For my contrasting colors I picked one of each, choosing a coral over tone, Lychee, and a green undertone, Granita. I kept my main color neutral, choosing the base overtone.
Tones is a rustic feeling yarn very similar to Shelter. When I held it double it produced a stiff fabric which had me initially worried, but I knew it would soften up when blocked. I blocked mine in hot, hot water, letting it soak for over two hours. I wanted maximum softness. I made sure to shape it to at least the recommended gauge of 12 stitches per inch, or even a little bit larger. A chunky sweater looks better with more ease.
I’m so pleased with the end result, and I’ll definitely use Tones for more projects. Norte has a lovely fit, and I’ve been wearing it on repeat. The pattern was fun, quick and taught me some new techniques.
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