Dear KnitBits® Subscribers,
It has come to my attention that some of my dear readers are looking for a more conservative fashion statement in our assortment of free patterns. At the same time, a new generation of knitters is asking us to provide patterns for the fashions that they see in the media, on the street and on the runways. In order to keep both factions satisfied, our design team thought it a good idea to offer at least two takes on our KnitBits Free Patterns.

Today I will show you a simple, long-sleeved V-neck pullover and scarf that's knit in Foliage™. It can be finished two ways for two very different looks. Without embellishment, Tonto Basic is a simple V-neck sweater and matching ribbed scarf. This is a classic basic look when styled as shown on our dress form.

If you are more daring in your approach to dressing, you can step outside the box and make a fashion statement. We love this young, hip look with primitive embroidery done in our Suede™ yarn. Tonto Embellished goes well with the faux felted look of the asymmetrical slit knit scarf trimmed with edgy, dreadlock-like fringe.

While we are on the topic of classics, one of our favorite classic Berroco yarns is Softwist™, a wool and rayon twist that knits to a worsted gauge of 5 stitches to the inch on a size 8 needle. The strand of rayon softens the touch while adding a lustre that is superb. Softwist is a perfect choice for all the hundreds of patterns and pattern books that are on the market. It is a classic with a Berroco twist. It is available in a range of 30 solids and 4 space dyed shades.
For look at some great Softwist designs from seasons past, click on our Web Gallery.



Shelly from Santa Barbara wrote to ask this question: "I am a new knitter. I want to make a scarf for myself. Do you have any suggestions about what color I should choose?"

Shelly, this is an excellent question. While we all love wearing black and dark rich colors, I would recommend that you start with a lighter color so that you can see the stitches form and recognize any errors. When you knit a dark color it is more difficult to see the stitches. To choose a color in your local yarn shop, take a ball or hank of the color or colors that you are attracted to and hold them near your face in a well lit mirror. You can see what looks best for your scarf project.