Last year I was über lucky to be a part of the Marian Rae Publications blog tour for their very first book, ISLAND. This year, the mega talented (and overall lovely) ladies behind Marian Rae, Jane Richmond and Shannon Cook, have decided to team up once again to put together another fabulous knitting book. The only difference this time around is that they decided to join designing forces and have both produced designs that make up the collection that is JOURNEY.
If you don't know Jane or Shannon personally, then you'll find out at the beginning of the book about just how different they are. Jane is all about classic and simple; Shannon is bold and likes to push the envelope. You would think such design styles would clash, or at least stand out from one another. But this is so not the case! Jane and Shannon are so in tune with each other and it definitely shows in this collaboration. Each piece of this collection stays true to each designer's personality and aesthetics and yet they mesh so well with each other so perfectly.
Just like its predecessor, JOURNEY is an absolutely beautiful experience. Notice how I didn't say book there? Simply because I feel like this is more than just a book, more than just a gorgeous collection of knitting patterns, but rather an intimate adventure that we're lucky to share with Jane and Shannon. More specifically, since these ladies are very inspired by island life here on the West Coast, you feel like you're getting a glimpse of what a weekend getaway could possibly look like for either Jane and Shannon. Or any islander for that matter. And once again the stunning photography is by Nicholas Kupiak, who, through the magic that is his camera lens, gives you the ticket that allows you to step into this special odyssey that is JOURNEY.
So why don't I make us a pot of tea and we can sit down and take this JOURNEY together?
:: CLIMB ::
After the introductions at the beginning of the book you come across the first pattern, Climb. It's the quintessential must-have for every knitter...and islander...to have in their wardrobe: classic work socks that are not only hard working but oh-so-comfy for those lazy mornings when all you want to do is pad around the house sipping coffee and enjoying a moment of quiet bliss. I was lucky enough to be one of the test knitters for Climb, which is Jane's first sock pattern, and can I say that they are the fastest socks I have ever knit up? Cause they are. They truly are a great knit for knitters of all levels. The only thing you have to worry about is deciding which colour combination to work with!
I LOVE that the book starts out with these socks. The photography depicts a beautiful Sunday morning in which we wake up and decide to go on a little adventure. Maybe up island?
:: ONWARD ::
But not before we make a quick stop at the farmer's market for some eats to take with us on the road!
Onward is Shannon's first shawl pattern that features a textured and reversible easy-to-memorize pattern. Knit up in worsted weight yarn, this shawl is sure to keep you cozy throughout the fall and winter months, and yet will still be light enough to drape over your shoulders for those breezy walks along the beach during the spring and summer. This shawl is definitely a piece that can be worn year round.
:: SPATE ::
In true laid back island life, our journey has decided to go a little further up island than planned because darn it, the West Coast is just so beautiful that you don't want the trip to end!
No worries though, keep your hands warm as you thumb your way to Renfrew with Jane's squishy fingerless mitts, Spate, that features a folded cuff that can be flipped up for when the windchill sets in. Requiring only 1 skein of yummy worsted weight yarn, no need for a cable needle for the raindrop-like textured pattern, and maybe a couple of evenings, these mitts will knit up quickly and cannot go wrong in anyone's wardrobe!
:: SWIFT ::
We found a ride! And now we're cruising up island through the lush greenery that is the canopy of the rainforest, with peeks of the ocean between the trees. You can almost feel the fresh wind blowing through your hair!
Although you can keep your head warm with Swift, a slouchy hat that showcases Shannon's love of texture and geometric patterns perfectly. The lacey pattern is simple enough to memorize to make this hat an easy knit, but is broken up enough with the garter stitch chevron details to keep you on your toes.
:: ANTRORSE ::
I think it's time to take a little stop to stretch our legs and maybe explore the rainforest. After all, we're not in a hurry. There's so much to see, so much to enjoy, it's definitely worth the time to stop for a moment to enjoy the warmth of the sun on our face.
But any West Coaster can tell you, it's just smart to dress in layers. Just because the sun is out doesn't necessarily mean it's warm enough to traipse through the trees or beach comb in a simple t-shirt and shorts. So why not layer with Antrorse? This cozy pullover is Shannon's first garment design! It features a reversible funnel neck line that can be worn either buttoned up for those chilly morning walks with the dog, or open for when you arrive home a little warmer and a little out of breath! Knit top-down using aran weight yarn, Antrorse is a wonderful and balanced mix of simple stockinette and textured stitches to make this knit fun and interesting!
:: INLAND ::
We're finally here! We made it to our own private heaven. It is here where we feel at peace and like we're the only people on Earth. We can sit on the beach and watch the sun set over the ocean. We can close our eyes and feel and smell the ocean breeze whilst listening to the water gently lap up against the shore. Ahhh...what a journey.
Of course, no journey is complete without a perfectly cozy cardigan to wrap around you while you reflect back on the paths you have taken to get to where you are now, and that cardigan is Inland. Like any Jane Richmond cardigan pattern, Inland is a simple top-down knit that you'll want in every colour because you know you're going to want to live in this one garment. Also in true Jane fashion, Inland is slim fitting yet flattering, is knit almost seamlessly (you do have to sew the sides of the pockets down but hey, even I can handle that!), and is practically guaranteed to meld well with your wardrobe season after season.
Phew! What an adventure!! I think it's time for me to take a dive into my stash and see what I can come up with so that I can knit one of each pattern! As I've mentioned on Instagram, screw gift knitting! My selfish "to-knit" list is incredibly long and now I'm adding six more patterns to the list!! And now that you've seen what JOURNEY has to offer, how many patterns will you be adding to your queue?
For the hard copy book, eBook, and individual patterns go to:
:: Website :: Ravelry ::
Want a chance to WIN a copy of the JOURNEY eBook? Of course you do!! Well look no further! Jane and Shannon have generously donated a copy of the eBook to give away to one lucky reader, and that reader can be you!! Yay!!! Thank you SO much Jane and Shannon for having me on your JOURNEY blog tour and for giving me the chance to host a giveaway for your fabulous eBook!! ♥
** Giveaway is now closed! **
** Thank you to all who have entered! **
** The Winner :: Jenn2Marie **
One lucky reader will receive an e-book copy of JOURNEY
:: THE RULES ::
:: Giveaway is open to everyone (yay!)
:: Giveaway is open until Thursday, December 12, 2012 at 12:00 midnight PST
:: All comments must include a valid email address or Ravelry ID so that I can contact you if you are the winner
:: Winner will be chosen via random number generator and will be contacted within 48 hours after giveaway ends
:: HOW TO ENTER ::
Leave a comment telling me what kind of knitterly journey are you planning on taking in the new year? Will it be to learn how to knit fair Isle? To master steeking? Or will you journey into the world of knitting garments? Don't forget to also include your email or Ravelry ID with your comment, because how else can I get a hold of you if you are the lucky winner?
Good luck!!
Please check out the other fabulous stops on the JOURNEY blog tour:
Dec 2nd :: Celtic Cast On
Dec 3rd :: Truly Myrtle & The Yarniad
Dec 4th :: Tanis Fiber Arts
Dec 5th :: Hey Porkchop & Noodlehead & Skirt As Top
Dec 6th :: In Color Order & A Playful Day
♥ Happy Knitting! ♥
* Please note: all photos in this post are © Nicholas Kupiak and are used with permission.
:: Disclaimer ::
I am not affiliated with the publishing company mentioned in this post. I received no monetary compensation from said company for my review. I was sent a copy of the eBook for review purposes in exchange for posting the review. The opinions I've written are my own and I will not be receiving any commissions from this post.
Awesome review! I've already started a pair of climb in some self striping yarn and have swatched for Antrorse, but I want to knit them all!! :)
ReplyDeleteLOVE that shawl and antrosse! I don't actually knit - but I would love to learn it! thecraftingfiend@gmail.com
ReplyDeleteSuch a great collection! My challenge next year is going to be to knit a garment using the new customfit program. Should be fun!
ReplyDeleteculabrat on ravelry
I'm expecting a little one in 2014 and have had a blanket pattern in my Rav queue for years, so this year I am going to attempt steeking for the very first time so baby will have this beautiful blanket ... and hopefully i will be successful in making a drawer full of hand knit socks for myself.
ReplyDeletemrsmommy on Rav
My knitterly journey for 2014 will be to improve my spinning and have a decent yarn to knit a simple shawl.
ReplyDeleteCecleinIndiana on Rav
I would like to knit a sweater that really fits.
ReplyDeletemmlt on Rav
I hope to be able to knit with DPN. I have tried a few items and well I would like to make a pair of socks. I love working on a shawl.
ReplyDeletemsgb245 at gmail dot com
I love all the patterns in this book!! My journey will include a steek and possibly a garment!! Thank you for the chance!
ReplyDeleteRavelry ID: mvink
My plan for the new year is to tackle garments, I have some beautiful yarn for a button up sweater and a tank top. I am just finishing up my first shawl as a Christmas present and can't wait to start the new projects! RavID: mradford
ReplyDeleteI plan to (try) to work within my stash and finish UFO and WIP project in 2014. Not very original, I know, but highly necessary. I have many projects' worth of yarn set aside already. It is time to use them!
ReplyDeleteI think part of the journey- in knitting and in life- is stopping to apprecaite what you aready have. Everything does not have to be about accumulating more.
Sorry. Rav:jacflash
DeleteI'm going on a steeking journey in the new year. I'm about half way through the body of my sweater, then arms and yoke, then steeking. It's a bit crazy, but I'm excited. Ravelry: madgiddy
ReplyDeleteI've dipped my toe into the world of fair isle knitting but I'm really eager to attempt to steek and adult sized sweater, thus far I've only steeked a swatch. I already have the yarn and pattern now I just need to find the time!
ReplyDeleteI want 2014 to be a year of sweaters, for sure! It was my summer goal to knit one, but that didn't happen...I'm hoping winter will be more conducive (at least weather-wise) to me actually producing one!
ReplyDeleteRav: princeka
You guessed it! I plan to try steeking in the new year. Rav amchart theharts at windstream dot net
ReplyDeleteWhat a fantastic review! Thank you for the adventure! ^.^
ReplyDeleteI'm hoping *fingers crossed* that my knitting journey for next year will bring the completion of my first lace scarf (stated last spring), a shawl and at least one more sweater (i'm eyeing you there "Inland" ~.^)
Good luck to all! and Merry Christmas!
"Jenn2Marie" on Ravelry
What a lovely adventure! :)
ReplyDeleteMy own knitting adventures will hopefully include *finally* finishing my own Happy Street (how annoying that life gets in the way of knitting FOs!), and working on a delightfully soft and drapey open-front cardigan, one of my first full-size sweaters. However, given that I'm 7 months pregnant with #2, I may have to wait a few months (knock on wood ...) to get my proper measurements.
Enjoy the holidays!
Ravelry ID: kjkoepsell ... sorry about that!
Deletei am going to try to expand my knitting horizons beyond socks, hats, and scarves. i want to make that shawl!
ReplyDeleteHi Melissa, in the next year I hope to finish my Slant Special cardi while taking care of my wee one. Doing both takes some finesse, as you well know. It's getting easier as he gets older though.
ReplyDeletecheers,
rav:jannamaria
I've made everything but Grace from last year's Jane Richmond book, and I love Shannon Cook's style! So I need this book please! rav: christykitsch
ReplyDeleteI'm in the process of knitting my first seamed sweater, so actually finishing it will definitely be a journey for me! I've already learned quite a bit about sweater construction. Thanks!
ReplyDeleteI definitely want to learn how to knit stranded colorwork/fair isle in 2014! I've actually already got my first project picked out and my yarn order from KnitPicks arrived today. :) I also want to make another sweater that fits me properly (I made my first one this year, but it turned out a little big).
ReplyDelete-Kristin
sewtechnicolor (at) yahoo (dot) com
I would like to learn how to knit socks. Climb would be a great first sock project. Thanks!
ReplyDeleteBordergirl on Ravelry
I want to learn to knit continental. Love this book. expectingsam on rav
ReplyDeleteI don't know yet what I want to learn knitting wise next year, but I do want to have a go at a quilt!
ReplyDeleteRavelry ID LiseJ
I'm planning on knitting a fair isle vest with steeks in the new year! I have the yarn on order and I can't wait to start. sewknittystar on Rav
ReplyDeleteI'm adding all patterns to my queue! :)
ReplyDeleteI'm planning to learn magic loop knitting in the new year and knit my first pair of socks (Climb would be great).
Raverly id: Dawnreads
I need to broaden my horizons beyond knitting socks.
ReplyDeletewahoomerryf on Rav
I'm going to knit my first sweater. I have the yarn and the pattern, so I just need to dive in! I'd also like to actually finish knitting a pair of socks.
ReplyDeleteRavelry ID: misskris545
I just learned the basics of how to knit so I would like to improve my skills to make something more than a scarf!
ReplyDeleteamyd14_1999@yahoo.com
Oh if I win I am making those socks so fast it will make my head spin...yarn is already on its way to my house.
ReplyDeleteAlso despite all the things I have knit, I have yet to knit a sweater, so time to tackle that in 2014.
My ravID is LauraNicole
Thanks!
I hope to journey into the land of finished projects. I have mounds of items that just need a button band, etc. to be worn. alcbrooks on Ravelry
ReplyDeleteMy goal for this new year is to start sock knitting. I have yarn all ready for the climb socks now I just need to get the pattern! ravelry: katking85
ReplyDeleteI will be taking on steeking in the new year and I can't wait! Thanks for the opportunity!
ReplyDeleteI want to knit more pullovers for my boys and myself. I'd also like to knit my first socks!
ReplyDeleteRavelry ID: ThimbleNest
What a great review, I loved how you broke it down pattern by pattern. The knitting journey I want to take this year is to really challenge myself and do fair isle, like you mentioned in your post. It scares the shit out of me to learn it, but there are just so many fair isle patterns I want to try!
ReplyDeleteRaverly ID: hhhfashion
In the new year I plan to find my own style with some of these lovely patterns! And I'd love to knit a pair of socks in less than 6 months! :) I'm thatsusangirl on Ravelry :)
ReplyDeleteI want to finish my first sweater and then knit some more! rav id: navystripes
ReplyDeleteI am just starting to learn how to knit, but my goal is to be able to make Antrorse by next winter!
ReplyDeleteMy goal for the upcoming year is to knit an Estonian lace shawl! Thanks for the giveaway! RavId: FlannelJammies
ReplyDeleteBeautiful book. THanks for the giveaway! I would love to journey into the knitting world of garments, socks included. Never tried them, but seems like so many swear by them.
ReplyDeleteThank you for this great giveaway... I have just about finished my first ever knitted hat! It was Jane's Renfrew hat from her "Island" book. I am loving it....I would love to knit up the hat in this new book, but I also have never knit an adult sweater! I would love to start one in the new year! Hopefully Antrorse!
ReplyDeleteI'm going to take a journey through my stash, since it's gotten distressingly large. Along the way I should encounter memories of various yarn stores and fiber festivals...
ReplyDeleteSheilaOKeefe on Rav
I hope to journey into the world of double knitting next year. I purchased a class on craftsy but haven't gotten a chance to try it yet. I adore Jane Richmond designs and would completely love to win! My email is cdugan88@gmail.com and my ravelry username is cdugan88.
ReplyDeleteMy journey this year is just to try and knit on a more regular basis . Rav username is nikknits
ReplyDeleteMy journey is to the perfect sweater. The perfect yarn,pattern and fit. Thanks for the giveaway! And congrats on being mentioned and your bag being displayed by the yarnharlot! Yay!
ReplyDeleteSarahG
RavID: violingirl76
I do have a whole bunch of stuff I want to learn: steeking, adding a zipper, circular yoke and fair isle for starters.
ReplyDeletenidhikansal on rav
I would like to knit my first pair of socks. I've got my eye on Climb as the perfect 1st pair to knit. The whole book is lovely!
ReplyDeleteRavelry ID: mhchong
I would love to do more fair isle in the new year and some pattern designing.
ReplyDeleteRav: zenitude
Ah, I'm journeying into the world of fair isle and can't wait! Thanks! Rav:katrobbinsvt
ReplyDeleteI learn new things as they are called for in particular things I want to make. Aside from test knits, I'd like to knit as many projects as I can that I already have yarn for.
ReplyDeleteStaceyKnitsIt ravelry
I am journeying into the world of shawls and socks... for some reason, they terrify me. :)
ReplyDeleteRav: sariehiggy
Socks will be my New Years Journey.I can knit in the round but it is the heel that has me terrified. Thanks for the giveaway
ReplyDeleteI'm planning to learn knitting socks on 2 circulars and fair isle! Ravelry: knitvict
ReplyDeleteTo knit more socks! They are the knitted item that I wear and enjoy most. Thanks for offering this Giveaway~! Ravelry name: floro
ReplyDeleteThis is an awesome review post. I think through studying such review any newbies will learn how perform a perfect review and submit it in the online. Great job!! Thanks.
ReplyDeleteSocks, Socks, Socks... well, maybe a sweater... I just love Antrorse, well, I love all the patterns in this Journey, but I think I'd enjoy a journey in knitting a sweater like Antrorse
ReplyDeleteLovely review, thanks for sharing Melissa! I have already bought the book for me and a friend, but I know exactly who I would gift the digi copy to!
ReplyDeletenatalie.michaud@gmail,com
My knitting journey for 2014 will be to knit socks. I've been knitting for several years, but NEVER tried socks! Climb would be the socks to start! Hope to win! Ana - anahuron@gmail.com
ReplyDeleteI have promised myself that I will knit an adult-sized sweater!! I am intimidated, but then I was intimidated by socks and lace and figured those out, so what the heck! Thanks for the review and giveaway! rav ID: tbinette
ReplyDeleteI have been knitting since I was 6 and now I've decided to master it. Sweaters, hats, socks - my plan is to make these as easy as mittens :-)
ReplyDeleteRavelry ID: Heathyde
I want to master the skill of Entralac knitting. I have tried it and like it just need to find the time to practice the skill.
ReplyDeleteOhhh, I hope to tackle fair isle knitting! Rav ID-ringleader
ReplyDeleteI am looking forward to sitting down and knitting MORE, the ideas are there, projects are tucked away in my head and in the closet and I have many skills to master in knitting; from techniques like fair isle to projects like my first pair of socks. I intend to make 2014 the year of creativity for myself.
ReplyDeleteThank you. My Ravelry id: lake lady
Well, my knitting journey for 2014 will involve me knitting with my very favourite yarns in my stash, whether new or old. Too many times I hang on to "precious" yarns that I discover I am less enamoured of after a few years...so no more waiting! If I love a yarn right now...I shall knit with it right now.
ReplyDeleteWow! I love those socks! The first snow just came here and I'm questioning why I didn't make more socks during the autumn... Neat hat, too..
ReplyDeleteMy knitterly journey is to design at least of the items I knit in 2014!
ReplyDeleteMy knitting journey for 2014 will be to knit myself some garments. I spend most of my time knitting for others, so 2014 is going to be all about me!
ReplyDeleteI'm vernalequinox on Ravelry.
I want to learn how to knit socks and the ones in Journey look awesome!
ReplyDeleteMy journey will be using yarns that I have never used before.
ReplyDeleteQueenofkings5 on Ravelry.
I am planning on quite a few baby knits in 2014 but am also really keen to master cabling and finally knit the topiary that I swatched for almost 3 years ago! (I am onepinkplum on ravelry)
ReplyDeleteI am planning to knit an Icelandic Sweater and steek it. My ravelry name is janineny2001.
ReplyDeleteI hope to knit more adult sized sweaters in the new year.
ReplyDeleteSweetBasil on ravelry
I want to learn Fair Isle knitting, but first to knit Climb!
ReplyDeleteI love Antrose! Such a modern design.
ReplyDeleteMy knitterly journey for the next year and to knit through my sweater yarn stash, hopefully starting with Antrorse :)
ReplyDeleteUberOrange on Rav
I'm continuing the knitterly journey I started this year. It was a year to master new techniques. So I've taken my first tentaive steps with double knitting and dipped a toe into the world of brioche knitting. And I designed my first three things: A gorgeous lille owl toy, a hat and a aran jumper. In 2014, I'm going to write up the patterns....
ReplyDeleteRavelry ID ninja-knitter
thanks for your review. I'd like to try knitting larger garments such as sweaters
ReplyDeletepetajean68atgmaildotcom
Beautiful! My knitterly journey this year is going to comprise of tackling a couple of finer gauge cardigans. They're all in my queue, I've bought yarn...I just need to get cracking! I'm angeleena on rav.
ReplyDeleteI think I'm going to brave some steeks this year as a knitterly journey. After 10 years of knitting it feels like I should have crossed that off my list already! I also plan on designing more men's sweaters. Rav id: knitthehellout
ReplyDeleteI am going on a journey to Vogue Knitting Live Seattle and hope to master continental knitting. Any of these patterns would be great to try out my new skills. Revelry ID Cindymalone
ReplyDeleteI've very new to knitting, and am starting purely so I can make my own awesome socks! gibbylet(at)gmail(dot)com
ReplyDeleteGreat designs. My next knitting journey is learn to knit continental in 2014! wish me luck...ssgirl on ravelry
ReplyDeleteI want to try more cable work. I did a tiny bit in 2013 but need to practice more. Thanks for the giveaway! (asimplehomestd on Rav)
ReplyDeleteOh, I've got so many goals! I want to knit my first pair of socks and I think Climb is going to be that first pair. I also want to try my hand at some colorwork. And steeking. And everything!
ReplyDeleteThanks for doing this post- I'm brynnbrew on rav!
I'm a newbie to knitting. Up to this point I have kept it easy with scarfs. I would love to venture in to socks, gloves, and other simple clothing. (oooooo walking on the wild side there-Ha!) I'm jonesing to try cable knitting but definitely don't have the confidence at this time. (soakingupthesun on Ravelry)
ReplyDeleteOh this book looks amazing! So far I have only knit scarves and handwarmers, so I'd love to take a knitting adventure and try the top-down pullover, Antrorse. Thanks for sharing this beautiful book of patterns! (anniemalee on Ravelry)
ReplyDeleteI want lo learn cable knitting, I'm still new at this! I learned to knit last January. do_bilodeau at hotmail dot com
ReplyDelete