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.
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.
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.