Heirloom Designs in Interweave Knits Winter 2022

Dear Reader,

I have a soft spot for handknitted sweaters, especially those that end up in thrift stores.

There’s something about these precious garments adrift in a sea of discarded clothing that breaks my heart. So, I do what any knitter would—I rescue them. Occasionally, these secondhand sweaters need a little TLC—small holes that need mending, stretched-out shoulders begging to be reblocked—and I gladly help restore them to their former glory. Many of these sweaters find a permanent home in my wardrobe, but sometimes they’re just not quite right. In such cases, when I can’t find someone whom it will fit perfectly, I’ve been known to frog the yarn and save it for future projects. Even though the original sweater is no more, the spirit of making lives on, something I think the original knitter would be pleased to know.

Above, left to right: Descendant Throw by Evelyn Siatra, Fiddler Sweater by Donna Estin, and Genealogy Shawl by Fiona Munro. Photos by Molly Stevenson.

It’s hard to predict which of the things we make will be cherished over the years, finding new homes and new life beyond our original intent. Designer Caroline Dick shares her own experience with an inherited sweater that became an unexpected favorite in this issue’s Ravelings. For those of us who want to intentionally create heirloom pieces, Interweave Knits Winter 2022 gathers together a small selection of stunning, timeless projects. Along with these heirloom knits, our Cottage Romance story focuses on cozy garments and accessories—pieces that you’ll come back to whenever you need a little extra comfort in your life.

Finally, since our winter issue closes out 2021, I want to acknowledge that this year has been a lot. After an optimistic spring full of vaccines and reopenings, fall has brought another season of canceled plans, masks, and COVID-19. We spent summer in Colorado in a haze of wildfire smoke that obscured the Front Range from view for weeks. Around the world, flooding, record heat, and strong storms wreaked havoc. Layer on numerous ongoing humanitarian crises, the continued fight for social justice, and whatever personal weight you’re carrying, and you may feel burned out. You’re not alone. Give yourself permission to feel all these things and seek comfort where you can. (Knitting can help.) Take care of yourself so that we all have the energy to take care of one another. We’ve got work to do.

Happy knitting,
Stephanie

Take a break with Interweave Knits Winter 2022.