Who are we supporting with our pattern purchases?

Janet asked me to focus this month’s Hot Right Now exclusively on BIPOC (Black Indigenous People of Color) and I really had a ton of fun highlighting some designers I knew and finding some new ones. I hope I helped you find some new designers to broaden your knitting world. 

If you are looking for more people to support, check out the website BIPOC in Fiber and this Ravelry bundle of BIPOC designers.

Diversity only makes our experiences more interesting and the designs I’ve highlighted here are sure to bring some beauty to your knitting basket. -Michelle

Slugghorn by Tyne Swedish
- Fingering 870 yards
Yarn Suggestions: Plied Yarn, Migration Yarn, Woolfolk Tynd

Tyne has designed yet another gorgeous shawl for Harry Potter fans or anyone who just enjoys an elegant meditative knit. Easy enough for new shawl knitters or an experienced knitter to knit while reading this shawl is sure to be an enjoyable knit and accessory. This design would pair so well with any of our gorgeous solid or semi-solid yarns.
-----------------------------------------------------------

 

Summer Secret Crop by Jessie Mae
– Fingering 175-500 yards
 Yarn Suggestions: Migration Yarn, Nebula

Jessie Mae is a hot designer at the moment. She specializes in modern, minimal, size-inclusive designs that are different from so much of what we see in knitwear now. Her latest design, the summer secret crop is free throughout the COVID crisis, she asks that instead donate to Black Lives Matter or the Greater Chicago Food Depository. This little top has great potential to be a summer staple AND make a difference in our community.

-----------------------------------------------------------

Everyday Lined Hat by Denise Bayron
– Worsted 190 yards
Yarn Suggestions: Dream in Color Classy, Woolfolk Far, Feederbrook Entropy

Denise creates stunning wardrobe staples and her brand new hat is sure to not disappoint. A simple design with a genius concept, lined with silk or whatever material you choose you can protect your hair, create an extra layer of warmth, or prevent any wool irritation you might experience.

-----------------------------------------------------------

 

Ocean Pathways Cowl by Francoise Danoy
– Fingering 570-660 yards
Yarn suggestions: Woolfolk Tynd, Migration Yarn

Frenchie is an incredibly prolific designer. She draws from her Maori heritage for her gorgeous wearable designs, I find joy just looking at how she brings knitting to life. Her newest cowl design tells the story that “while we may be separated by oceans, it is our diverse experiences and knowledge that can tie us together.” This sentiment feels so close to my heart right now I believe it’s the perfect cast on to work through this difficult time.

-----------------------------------------------------------

 

Orilla Scarf by Alex Reynoso
– Fingering 1200-1600 yards
Yarn Suggestions: Knitted Wit Herstory, Nebula

Alex is a young designer, dyer, potter with so much to offer our community. Orilla is a gorgeous crochet scarf you can really make your own depending on your yarn choices. He uses the magic knot ball but you could just as easily pick a gorgeous pallet and change colors whenever you feel like it. He also suggests striping or fading, it’s your chance to play.

-----------------------------------------------------------

 

Kiora by Tamy Gore
– Sport 850-984 yards
Yarn Suggestions: Ewe So Sporty

Tammy is a gorgeous shawl designer and her newest design is no different. Bold and curvy Tammy has created a really interesting shape. Short rows play together with contrast colors for a one of a kind shawl.

-----------------------------------------------------------