Sandra's Designing Blog

This is an exclusive area of my web site where you can find out more about my knitted designs, what inspires me, how I work and what I like (and don't like) to design. 
 
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  1. Meet Fisterra - inspired by the dramatic beauty of Spain’s ‘Land’s End

    Posted on

    Hi, 

    Meet "Fisterra", my latest creative design. inspired by the dramatic beauty of Spain’s ‘Land’s End

    This shawl combines the rhythmic flow of brioche with the delicate beauty of lace. It features one-color brioche and stocking stitch stripes, leading into a simple lace pattern. The shawl begins with a garter stitch tab and is worked outward from the center spine to form two triangles. Once the brioche and stocking stitch stripes are established within the increases, the lace pattern is introduced. Like most lace patterns, the decreases and eyelets are worked on the right side. A final row of eyelets adds the finishing touch.
    Buy the Pattern
     
    Buy the Kit - low stock

    Why Brioche Lace?

    "I was inspired by Nancy Marchant’s exploration of brioche lace, particularly her innovative techniques for creating openwork within brioche fabric. However, I wanted to keep my own brioche lace design as simple and approachable as possible. Like traditional knitted lace, I have chosen to work in a single color to highlight the eyelets clearly. I have also kept the structure straightforward—using just one yarn over for each decrease and working the lace pattern only on the right side of the fabric. This keeps the rhythm intuitive while still creating a beautifully delicate effect."

    The Fisterra shawl finishes off being over 2 metres wide and 30 inch deep and so is incredibly versatile. Here are some different ways to wear it:

    • Classic Point Front – Drape the shawl around your neck with the point hanging down in front, wrapping the ends around your neck for warmth.

      • Shoulder Wrap – Wear it draped over your shoulders like a traditional shawl, perfect for layering over a dress or top.

      • Kerchief Style – Fold the shawl in half to create a smaller triangle and tie it loosely around your neck for a casual, scarf-like look.

      • Off-the-Shoulder Wrap – Let the shawl sit asymmetrically across your shoulders and pin it with a shawl pin or brooch for an elegant, secure fit.

      • Wrapped Like a Poncho – Cross the ends over your chest and tuck them under the back of the shawl for a poncho-like effect.

      • Belted – Wrap the shawl around your shoulders or waist and secure it with a belt for a chic, structured look.

      • Back Drape – Wear the shawl with the point down your back and wrap the ends around your neck for a dramatic yet cozy style.

      • Twisted Loop – Fold the shawl into a long, narrow shape, loop it around your neck, and tuck in the ends for extra warmth..

     

    Interested in learning Brioche ? Well I have some learning material specially for you. From a beginners headband (I've seen this knitted a multitude of times) to the 2 coloured Heatwave cowl I've got it all covered. Techniques are explained in photo snap shots and videos. 
    I plan to add videos of Brioche lace in here too..... watch this space.

  2. Just sometimes

    Posted on

    Just sometimes 

    I take some time out from designing to just knit for myself. Over the last few weeks I've been working on the Nordic Bloom Vest by Caitlin Hunter. Quite a simply pattern with a really cute flower motif. The design called for steeking but as I'm ok with doing the purl rows of stranded knitting I worked on this flat ( ie on straight needles). 

    Next time..... I'll knit a bigger size, maybe my swatch measuring wasn't perfect !
     

    Why I Knit for Myself

    Knitting is more than just a craft or a job for me—it’s a deeply personal practice. When I knit for myself, I’m not only creating something to wear or enjoy but also exploring new techniques, experimenting with yarns, and pushing my skills to new heights. This hands-on practice fuels my creativity and allows me to design patterns that are both unique and approachable.

    Knitting for myself also gives me space to explore my personal fashion style. I’m still learning which colours and styles suit me best, and how to integrate new knits into my existing wardrobe. Through this process, I discover what works and what doesn’t—lessons I can pass on to you. Whether it’s advice on colour combinations, tips for wearable designs, or how to pair a hand-knit with other pieces, these insights often find their way into my patterns, blogs and tutorials.

    Every project becomes a classroom, helping me refine my techniques, experiment with fashion choices, and troubleshoot potential challenges. This ensures that the patterns I create for you are thoughtful, well-tested, and polished. When you pick up one of my designs, you’re not just following a pattern; you’re benefiting from hours of discovery and learning.

    Knitting for myself is where the joy of creation meets personal growth. Sharing that joy and insight through my designs is the ultimate reward.