Kestrel, by Quince & Co.
Last month, we had a look at Quince's fingering weight linen, Sparrow. Kestrel is a new take on a simple linen yarn. The folks at Quince took the same Belgium-grown organic linen that they use in their little Sparrow and spun it this time in a ribbon structure. Kestrel knits up quickly at 3½ to 4 stitches to the inch. Its flat surface adds a slight texture to simple knit and purl stitches, and it has incredible drape. Like all things linen, woven or knitted, Kestrel only gets better as you wash and wear it. |
We've enjoyed Kestrel so much we've made not one but two samples with it this season.
Below, the tee "Flex" surprisingly flips the pattern 90º in a criss-cross shape. Our version's on the left with Quince's own on the right. Following is the "Hudson" cowl, a decorative, light to the touch, summer scarf.
Below, the tee "Flex" surprisingly flips the pattern 90º in a criss-cross shape. Our version's on the left with Quince's own on the right. Following is the "Hudson" cowl, a decorative, light to the touch, summer scarf.
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Some may enjoy the rustic look of linen but wonder, is it really going to be soft enough?
Here baby Zoë gives it the seal of approval, romping in a "Sweet Pleat" Kestrel dress knitted for her by a friend of ours.
It keeps the sun out, but lets the cool breezes in; perfect for summer.
Now let's have a look at patterns designed specifically for Kestrel by Quince & Co.'s own design team, including founder Pam Allen:
First up is "Adelaide." A delicate lace panel on the front of the body is the centerpiece to this gorgeous raglan pullover. Next, two tanks: "Togue Pond" includes decorative ribbing, and "Aster" is an airy tank whose darts in the back provide a nice silhouette. And lastly is "Hibiscus," shown in the bright, refreshing color "rosehip."
First up is "Adelaide." A delicate lace panel on the front of the body is the centerpiece to this gorgeous raglan pullover. Next, two tanks: "Togue Pond" includes decorative ribbing, and "Aster" is an airy tank whose darts in the back provide a nice silhouette. And lastly is "Hibiscus," shown in the bright, refreshing color "rosehip."
Though Kestrel has the cool breathability of linen, its aran weight construction lends it to a substantial fabric in summer pullovers and cardis.
From left is "Yarrow," which switches intriguingly from garter to stockinette. "Hamlin Peak" is a free-flowing cardigan. "Jessamin" features a sweetly simple garter mesh lace border in the body and sleeve cuffs, and garter trim at cardigan fronts. And loose, swingy "Bridie" is a cocoon that’s meant to be thrown on and lived in.
From left is "Yarrow," which switches intriguingly from garter to stockinette. "Hamlin Peak" is a free-flowing cardigan. "Jessamin" features a sweetly simple garter mesh lace border in the body and sleeve cuffs, and garter trim at cardigan fronts. And loose, swingy "Bridie" is a cocoon that’s meant to be thrown on and lived in.
Want to see more? Check out all of Quince's Kestrel patterns right here.
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The Stats:
Kestrel, by Quince & Co.
100% organic linen
heavy worsted weight
76yd [70m] / 50g
4 sts / inch on size US 8 [5 mm] needles
3.5 sts / inch on size US 10.5 [6.5 mm] needles
All photos except the first are © Quince & Co.
Kestrel, by Quince & Co.
100% organic linen
heavy worsted weight
76yd [70m] / 50g
4 sts / inch on size US 8 [5 mm] needles
3.5 sts / inch on size US 10.5 [6.5 mm] needles
All photos except the first are © Quince & Co.