London Fog Turtleneck

I designed this pattern for Issue #12 of By Hand Serial - it’s the perfect clothing item to take on any trip, because it’s warm, comfortable, doesn’t wrinkle, and goes with everything! I have been focusing on knitting (and sewing) classic, basic core wardrobe items that I can mix and match, so that I have an entire wardrobe that’s comprised of only a few pieces and isn’t overwhelming. It helps me reduce how much I’m buying, makes it easier to figure out what to wear each day, and gives me a capsule wardrobe to take with me when I travel.

This turtleneck is a key piece of the capsule wardrobe, because it can be worn alone or under just about anything (cardigan, vest, jacket, etc). I knit it in this beautiful neutral that can be worn with just about any color - or that looks classic and classy with just a pair of blue jeans. However, we also had samples knit in bright, saturated hues that provide a perfect pop of color for any outfit!

I love the construction of this piece, especially the ribbing and the saddle shoulders (which make the garment fit really well, sit nicely on your shoulder caps and curve up toward your neck). The 1x1 ribbing on the turtleneck is particularly nice because it gives the neck structure, but also keeps it very soft and pliable, so that it doesn’t feel too tight or constricting around your neck.

I know that some people really like knitting very flashy pieces, with complicated patterns and a multitude of colors, but to me, I never end up wearing those pieces (or at least, not more than a few times). For me, it’s important to focus my yarn-buying and my knitting time on garments that will make a meaningful and lasting contribution to my wardrobe.

Pattern: London Fog Pullover in By Hand Serial Issue #12

Yarn: Bare Naked Wools Better Breakfast Fingering (55% merino / 35% alpaca / 10% nylon) - 3 skeins (450 yds/skein) in color Poppy Seed.

Size: Medium (3/4” - 1” of positive ease)

Needles: US 4s