I’m really thrilled to launch these beautiful Cashmere/merino rib tops & thought it would be lovely to show you the whole process of how they’re made. These pieces make wonderful transitional pieces, working perfectly in the summer but just as well layered up over the Autumn/Winter months. I have created 4 different muted colours that will work with lots of colours & have a calming feel about them. They are minimal, chic & would work well with so many different outfits. A subtle piece of luxury that feels heavenly to wear.
I’ve designed the fabric so that the cashmix yarn sits on the top of the piece and closer to the skin, with a subtle colour peaking out of the back of the fabric. Then I brush the piece to bring out the halo aka super softness of the fibre.
First I thread up my knitting machine with my cashmix yarns & get myself cast on. This top uses a 2×2 formation giving the fabric a beautiful drape and stretch. Once I have hung on my comb and weights I begin knitting the piece manually- the machine doesn’t move or work without me using it.
Once I have knit the front panel, I begin the process all over again for the back piece.
Once both pieces are knit and off the machine I pin them out and give them a good steam. This helps to relax all the tight stitches and set the piece to the right shape & size.
Once they have cooled, I begin construction. Re-hanging both pieces onto the machine and using a latch tool to bind the seams together in a chain stitch to allow for stretch. I start with the sides & then finish with the shoulder seams.
The piece gets steamed again and then I hand sew all the ends of wool back into the garment to prevent anything from coming undone. There is usually around 6-8 yarn ends to deal with on each piece & this can take a little while. I love finishing these pieces by hand as I have full control over the quality and finish of the fabric.
Once all of the ends are sewn in I turn the piece through to the right side and use a brush to pick up the cashmere fibres which form a soft halo on the surface of the fabric. This is a really manual process & again takes a fair amount of time, but I think it really helps the finish of the fabric and makes it so tactile.
I hope you have enjoyed learning about how each piece is made. Although it is made on a machine, I think you can see it is actually a completely hand made process that takes skill, time and care to make. I love creating special pieces that will last well & that work with many of the pieces you already find in your wardrobe.
To shop one of these pieces click below & if you have any questions then please do email me.
For information about how to care for your knits you can drop by my CARE INFORMATION page.