Synthesis Mystery KAL revealed... with a Giveaway and Contest!
Gosh, I've been waiting for this week for months.... literally! One of the hardest things I have to do is not show my version of a Mystery KAL while you all knit away on yours! I've had my Synthesis done since January and have kept it hidden away. I am TOTALLY excited to be able to start wearing it!
Synthesis comes in two sizes, and incorporates those dropped stitches I am obsessed with, garter stitch, and a knitted on edging. It isn't hard knitting, but there are a few things to keep track of :)!
Wondering about the construction of Synthesis?
It is knit in 8 parts which I broke into 5 clues.
1. Top Edge is worked as one long strip.
2. Stitches are picked up along long edge of strip
and divided into sections.
3. Right Strip is worked out from Top Edge.
4. Right Connector is worked in between Top Edge
and Right Strip.
5. Left Strip is worked out from Top Edge.
6. Left Connector is worked in between Top Edge and Left Strip.
7. Center Connector is worked in between Left Strip and Right Strip.
8. Stitches are picked up along bottom edge, and then a knitted on Bottom Border is worked.
As always... my mystery KAL constructions are unique and keep the knitter guessing! I'm working on our MKAL for the Fall, and I have to say, it could be my craziest construction to date!
I've set up a thread in my Ravelry group for those of you knitting away on Synthesis that want support/help/cheering.... Synthesizers Knit ON! Please feel to join in there if you want to KAL along with everyone! I've also released a final version of Synthesis written as a shawl (with all the clues taken out.) This version has been uploaded to Ravelry.
I've also set up a contest thread for photos of finished Synthesis Shawls.... there will be two prizes, one for the best photo (judged by me), and one random winner. The prizes there are REALLY good, so go check them out. I'm leaving that contest open until July 15th, so there is time to finish up (or start and finish) AND get a great pic! I'm already deeply in love with this photo of Kikukat's Synthesis.
Finally, to celebrate revealing Synthesis I have an extra Synthesis M Club kit to give to one of you.... 2 skeins of Mrs. Crosby Reticule in Synthesis with beads to match (this yarn was dyed exclusively for The M Club)
Just leave a comment below letting me know what you think of this construction. Don't forget to leave a way to get in touch with you... I'll keep
comments open through June 3rd and announce a winner in a future blog
post!
Wondering about the construction of Synthesis?
It is knit in 8 parts which I broke into 5 clues.
1. Top Edge is worked as one long strip.
2. Stitches are picked up along long edge of strip
and divided into sections.
3. Right Strip is worked out from Top Edge.
4. Right Connector is worked in between Top Edge
and Right Strip.
5. Left Strip is worked out from Top Edge.
6. Left Connector is worked in between Top Edge and Left Strip.
7. Center Connector is worked in between Left Strip and Right Strip.
8. Stitches are picked up along bottom edge, and then a knitted on Bottom Border is worked.
As always... my mystery KAL constructions are unique and keep the knitter guessing! I'm working on our MKAL for the Fall, and I have to say, it could be my craziest construction to date!
My mind boggles at the thought of figuring out how to design the cool things you create! I'm hoping to start my Synthesis once I finish Las Cruces -- another fascinating construction.
ReplyDeleteI'm dswgr6 on Ravelry.
Love this color and the beads to go with it. Hoping to finish my Synthesis in time for the KAL prizes too! (Vacation knitting next week!)
ReplyDeleteKimt8511 on ravelry!
I love my Synthesis, was a great learning experience for me! The construction was ingenious and even though I started each section over many times I was able to complete it.
ReplyDeletesusiripple on Ravelry
My birthday is in July and I think I just found my birthday present. The color is gorgeous and the construction is beautiful. I'm ChitownAlicia on ravelry.
ReplyDeleteLove the shawl! The construction is so interesting; looks like a bit challenging, big bit fun. I'm figment49 on Ravelry
ReplyDeleteEveryone in my knitting group was totally amazed with the construction of my Synthesis and even more so, with gushing oooo's and ahhhhhh's, with the finished shawl. It is absolutely beautiful!!!! I am sleekymom on ravelry ☺️
ReplyDeleteSynthesis is a gorgeous and unique piece of yarnie deliciousness and I love the unusual construction methods! It was such fun to knit something completely different than anything EVER; and although it looks super complicated, it was easy to follow and understand each step. Muddancer on Ravelry
ReplyDeleteI love the construction. It looked more difficult than it was and is beautiful and worth the knitting effort! I'm so glad that I knit this beautiful shawl!!
ReplyDeleteI'm brooklyn-knitter on Ravelry.
I am working on the edge, and just yesterday evening I was thinking about how much I enjoyed this project. And knitting with lace yarn held double was super funny! Thanks for this mkal!
ReplyDeleteI am 3owin on ravelry
I'm happily occupied with the center connector, happily because the left and right connector sections gave me fits. This is definitely the most challenging project I've undertaken to date but not insurmountable. I can't say I ever got bored. I'm looking forward to the border - I love those dropped stitches, too!
ReplyDeletekittybusiness on Ravelry
This is the first I'm hearing about this pattern. It is really intriguing and I love the colorway of the sample. I'm anxious to check it out on Ravelry.
ReplyDeleteLmecoll on Ravelry
I still can't believe that I made my synthesis. The construction of it was magical. I was recently looking in a Vogue Knitting Designer edition and nothing in it held a candle to the items you design. Can I say that you are truly one of the greatest designers out there. The really cool part is that if I made this, anyone can make this and have something really spectacular when they are done. I am still blown away every time I look at mine!
ReplyDeleteVery clever construction - I like that it's different enough to keep me guessing at what's coming next, but but not so overly busy that I can't work on it in bits & pieces. I'm Samina on Ravelry.
ReplyDeleteYou never cease to amaze me with your creativity! The construction of this shawl was confusing at first, but you do like to keep us on our toes! Kattolio on Ravelry.
ReplyDeleteNow, that I have some "free" time you have inspired me to get started on my MKAL! I was so happy to see that you selected Mrs. Crosby Loves to Play as the yarn so now I need to get started for the contest! I am Dmyers764 on Ravelry. Thank you for all the awesome projects and clever patterns! You rock!
ReplyDeleteThe construction of Synthesis is very clever. It has to be the largest shawl I have knit so far. Each section presented has been well written and is very easy to follow. The edging of this shawl finishes it off beautifully. As always Laura your designs are as beautiful as they are interesting.
ReplyDeleteCarolm7323 on Ravelry
Knitting Synthesis was great! I learned a lot! Who knew you could actually drop stitches on purpose as part of a design! I used my own yarn and beads but would love to make another in the M Club colorway. Definitely joining the M Club when it comes around again!!
ReplyDeleteDeanna - dlmorgan166@gmail.com or dmorgan166 on Ravelry
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteNow that I am almost finished, learned an incredible amount in my first-ever lace/bead knit, and ripped and re-knit, and tore out some hair--I would DEFINITELY try this again with great confidence. Thank you so much Laura for this amazing challenge.
ReplyDeleteLizzAnn on Ravelry
loved all MKAL for this shawl!!! the surprise factor was big. dropped stitches? what? :)
ReplyDeleteshalina on Ravelry
Beautiful yarn and pattern! (bevwalker on Ravelry)
ReplyDeleteThis was a great MKAL with a gorgeous finished shawl! Loved it!!
ReplyDeleteAmazing! I can't wrap my mind around the construction. A beautiful work of art!
ReplyDeleteIt surprises me that there are still new methods of constructing shawls. You've come up with a wonderful way to make a long shawl without ridiculously long rows or knitting tip to tip. And designed a lovely shawl in the process! SheilaOKeefe on Rav
ReplyDeleteYour construction ideas are amazing. I am currently working on Crucero. czsknits on Ravelry
ReplyDeleteYour constructions are truly unique. This is a beautiful shawl.
ReplyDeleteI'd love to know how your mind works to come up with these unquestionably unique designs!!!! mlg001 on Ravelry
ReplyDeleteI am just beginning clue2. I am so psyched about what I will end up with at the end. It looks great.
ReplyDeleteI'm ShutterbugsC on Ravelry
That's a really neat construction! Adding it to my queue.
ReplyDeletealikat2004 on Ravelry
Really intrigued with this construction. Read the instructions carefully and it really worked out great. The fit is fantastic!
ReplyDeletesynergy6 on Ravelry
This construction is really cool - love how everything comes together
ReplyDeleteheno on Ravelry
This is amazing Laura! It is definitely on my to-knit list!
ReplyDeleteThis is genius and gorgeous!!!
ReplyDeleteThis is genius and gorgeous!!!
ReplyDeleteI have never seen anything like this, can't wait to explore it.
ReplyDeleteTracy611 on Ravelry
OH how I love drop stitches! I'm off to add this to my list!
ReplyDeleteI'm kiminoregon on Ravelry!
Totally crushing on this design!
ReplyDeleteIronicalKnitter on Rav
I loved making this shawl in the MKAL. My Mom liked it so much she asked to keep it (yes, I gave it to her).
ReplyDeleteKatiedaugherty on Ravelry
What a gorgeous, (but challenging for me) pattern that I would love to try. The white one, done by Kikykat is truly elegant! Thank you!
ReplyDeleteYour designs are always so innovative. This is lovely!
ReplyDeleteGorgeous! Love the construction -
ReplyDeleteI've never seen such an interesting construction and I don't know if I'm skilled enough to do it, but I'm going to give it a shot.
ReplyDeleteThanks Laura!
Nabby
email mcnab@ripnet.com
Synthesis is beautiful! The construction sounds a bit scary for a beginning knitter, but it would certainly be a good experience for me.
ReplyDeleteNancy
nancy.rehak@gmail.com
I love this design and the construction excites me. I just picked up my current WIP so that I can finish quickly and start this!
ReplyDeleteI think it's interesting I've never seen anything like it. I'm glongley on Ravely
ReplyDeleteLaura, you're a genius to come up with a design like Synthesis. I cant wait to start it. I know it will be an interesting knitting project.Thanks for a chance to win some beautiful yarn and beads and for sharing your wonderful talent with us.
ReplyDeletePaula Riley
heyheypaula47@yahoo.com
What I love about Synthesis is the clever construction, because it makes knitting a rectangular-shaped shawl very interesting. I've knitted very few stoles and the reason is the monotony -- even with intricate lace or cable stitch patterns. Every part of Synthesis was very interesting to knit, and I learned a lot too. Laura, thank you so much for the chance to win a kit from the club!
ReplyDeleteWhen do you think of these designs? At the grocery store? In the car? In the shower? Beautiful and original. Thank you. A proud member of the M Club. janskin on Ravelry.
ReplyDeleteI love this! It seems sooo craaazy and too complicated to knit, but the great help and support on ravelry make it possible! This is like origami in yarn :) I am juliannahey on ravelry
ReplyDeleteShawls are my favorite knitting project and this pattern is unlike anything I have previously knitted. Thanks for the giveaway. Ravelry ID: smokeybo
ReplyDeleteI love that we were kept in the dark about what we were actually making. I learned so much knitting this shawl. The clues were just the right amount of knitting and the way each clue was added was fascinating. I will love wearing the shawl and the memories it will bring. Thanks for the most interesting garment I have knit to date. mbodoh610@gmail.com
ReplyDeleteBeautiful shawl and creative construction method. Your projects push me beyond my comfort zone and I end up learning so much! I put my trust in the pattern, even if I can't visualize how it will turn out. Ravelry ID: chris6362
ReplyDeleteOh wow looked at my email tonight and I am in love with this shawl. How do you keep coming up with these wonderful designs. I definitely am going to make this
ReplyDeletethank you lkayeheart@gmail.com
WoW, I love the uniqueness of the construction! It would be a wonderful challenge to knit. margarete2000 : Ravelry ID
ReplyDeleteThe construction looks like you got to put on your "serious puzzle maker" hat and never take it off. Very impressive. I cannot imagine making it as a MKAL as the parts were revealed and how much head-scratching you generated with each clue. I look forward to giving it a try.
ReplyDeleteSusannah
ravelry: iltis47
Wow, what a neat way to put together a shawl. I would make this one, since it has a great look, and an interesting way to knit together.
ReplyDeletecarmelletidd@gmail.com
That is a really fun shawl construction! Perfect for a MKAL, for sure. WordLily on Rav.
ReplyDeleteI like the way your brain thinks, Laura! So much fun to knit with you!
ReplyDeleteRav ID Moonmaid7
Your creative constructions never cease to impress. Thank you creating yet another work of art. prmoore0615@gmail.com
ReplyDeleteI love the construction; would never think of connecting things that way. I have been using more beads since doing some of your patterns and would love to expand on this. Docjulie on ravelry
ReplyDeleteThis is beautiful, I love your beaded shawls. Your creativity never ceases to amaze me. Love the way you think.
ReplyDeleteleighlellen on Ravelry
This is beautiful, I love your beaded shawls. Your creativity never ceases to amaze me. Love the way you think.
ReplyDeleteleighlellen on Ravelry
Caveat: I just purchased the pattern, so I haven't yet knit it. However, I love projects like this. At first, I look at construction like this and think, "How on earth will I be able to do this?" Then I look at the pattern and think about it and actually start knitting, and guess what? I *can* do it, and it looks really cool, and I am really happy that I've learned some new knitting knowledge. I can't wait to make my Synthesis!
ReplyDeleteP. S. ZOMG BEADS
I'm oceansunfish on Ravelry.
I love how Synthesis combines 'thinking' knitting (the dropped stitches, the lace border), and the 'soothing' knitting (the connectors), all in sections that give you those little shots of dopamine as a reward for finishing ;)
ReplyDeleteIt's addicting in the best way.
apenwell on ravelry
I love how Synthesis combines 'thinking' knitting (the dropped stitches, the lace border), and the 'soothing' knitting (the connectors), all in sections that give you those little shots of dopamine as a reward for finishing ;)
ReplyDeleteIt's addicting in the best way.
apenwell on ravelry
I love the construction. I wonder if I'm smart enough to follow your instructions! It's not my grandmother's knitting!
ReplyDeletePhenomenal design. Can't wait to cast on.
ReplyDeleteAmazing construction, unlike anything else that I have made. I am so glad that I found you as you have quickly become one of my favorite designers!
ReplyDeleteloviegirl on ravelry
Beautiful, unique and fascinating. Love all your mind works
ReplyDeleteKnitsend on Ravelry
I love knit on edges!! They give the finished shawl or other project a nicer edge than most bind offs. Synthesis was a fun knit and I really enjoyed using Mrs. Cosby's Reticule.
ReplyDeleteI like the bottom border the best and am SO excited that you are leaving the photo contest open until July 15th. I was so disappointed that I was unable to finish by May 31, I have 9 repeats left, baseball season has started and I don't really consider this project portable, baseball knitting.
ReplyDeleteOn Ravelry I am known as lldramrpd
So so... Laura Nelkin. The construction is always challenging. I like it since it makes me feel like I'm smart. Lol
ReplyDeletePiwang on Raverly
Ala Jerry Maguure, you had me at "8 parts".
ReplyDeleteThis is absolutely facinating! I think I've found my next summer knit! I love how your mind works! Knitting this makes you a genius. Jimzu2 on ravelry
ReplyDeleteI'm so intrigued by the construction of this. It's next up on my list. I love this!
ReplyDeleteRav Id = Hsings
DeleteIt's amazing, Laura. Intriguing and gorgeous! I am disappointed that life has interrupted my knitting again, but I can't wait to get started. Hope he works calms down in time for your fall kal :-)
ReplyDeleteTruly amazing design and beautiful to see. The thought process to design such lovely press is impressive
ReplyDeleteNorlou on ravelry
The construction of Synthesis was absolutely innovative. Picking up stitches and meeting at the "connecting point" was a totally new experience. And while I love my "small" shawl, I wish I made the larger size.
ReplyDeletekikukat on ravelry
The construction is brilliant.
ReplyDeletepiaheuerandersen on ravelry
Absolutely loved knitting this, and the guesswork as to where it was going! And the endresult is stunning. So glad I opted for the large, and really looking forward to gifting it to my aunt on 11th June for her 80th birthday! Thanks Laura for another brilliant pattern! :-)
ReplyDeletefilidhruadh on ravelry
The construction is really interesting, as usual, but I'm especially intrigued by the edging.
ReplyDeletessunday on Rav
Something to aspire to!! I am still developing my skills, but love all of your designs. This is the best ever -- especially in the gorgeous fuchsia. Maybe I will be able to tackle one of the MKALs next year. In the meantime, brava to all who undertook this, and to you, Laura, for a fabulous creation. (BeeGi on Ravelry)
ReplyDeleteLove the combination of the wavy edge and vertical lines, also the knitted on edging - clever! (Calvin3621 on Revelry)
ReplyDeleteI love the look of it and the construction seems totally unique. I will be adding this pattern to my "knit for self" que.
ReplyDeleteIkisti on Rav
Sheer genius!
ReplyDeleteThank you for the experience. Let's me know that ANYTHING you want to do is possible if you just knit one stitch at a time!
ReplyDeleteThank you for the experience. Let's me know that ANYTHING you want to do is possible if you just knit one stitch at a time!
ReplyDeleteBeautiful construction! I love dropped stitches.
ReplyDeleteI'm ThisnThatFarm on Ravelry.
I love this construction. A friend knitted it in black and it was beautiful.
ReplyDeleteknittingdancer on Raverly
Wow! What a marvelous shawl.
ReplyDeleteSharon16565
Very interesting construction with a beautiful finished piece. Love it! Ravelry ID is rkohlman
ReplyDeleteAbsolutely beautiful!
ReplyDeleteThat's some pink yarn right there!
ReplyDeletesnowvixen on Rav
I had to put Synthesis in time out for a while after Clue 2. I hope to get back to it after "must" projects completed. It is definitely an interesting and challenging project with beautiful results.
ReplyDeleteRavelry - BarbaraSC
That construction is very neat in my opinion. Definitely keeps things interesting and keeps me paying attention, lol. rav id: showandtellmeg
ReplyDeleteIf I can say one more thing about the construction of the shawl, when I told my daughters and my son's girlfriend that I was making a shawl, I think they thought of the classic "old lady knitting an old lady shawl", and were not so impressed. After it was finished, they all wanted it. It is young and fresh and sparks an interest in knitting by the young. It makes knitting "really cool"!
ReplyDeleteI have always enjoyed the techniques you come up with for your patterns so I am sorry I did not participate this time. I am sorta out of shawl mode and more into cowl mode but I do enjoy the knitting challenge you provide with your patterns, as you say not hard just need to be aware.
ReplyDeleteRav ID:katbrown
The shawl is so beautiful! So modern. Working it in different modules gives it a very clean look. Just gorgeous!
ReplyDeleteI'm RedheadKnitting on Rav
I love the construction. It reminds me of Trapeze, my first MKAL with you.
ReplyDeletesparky136 on Ravelry
OMG, your pictures of Synthesis are just great - and what a beauty it is!
ReplyDeleteHave to join the Synthesizers knit on group immediately to finish my border, I just never had peaceful knitting time without talking the last evenings to keep going. I want to wear it soon as it is just GORGEOUS!
Thanks Laura, for another great design!
As always, Laura, your construction methods are so unique and produce such lovely results. Love this yarn too - simply gorgeous!!
ReplyDeletefinnknitter on Ravelry
I like the modules. I tend to get bored with huge projects, so having different areas is like working on a new project!
ReplyDeleteThe construction is so unique. I've never knit a shawl in this way before. Also dropped stitches are a favorite of mine. I love working them and the final look they create.
ReplyDeleteRav name: MeanderingHome
One of the most intriguing features of Synthesis is the combination of symmetry and asymmetry in one garment -- plus BEADS!!! Yay!
ReplyDeleteRudella on Ravelry
I think the construction is challenging but fun and I'd like to try it for myself. Thanks!
ReplyDeleteLooks beautiful! :) I really want to try to make one myself though I´m not sure if I´m that experienced yet.
ReplyDeletemmyheartishere@gmail.com
I loved following the MKAL on ravelry and watching the shawls take shape. I enjoy interesting/unique construction, and as always this pattern doesn't disappoint :) My favourite aspect of this shawl though is the edging. It's stunning and pulls everything together. (rebdavis on ravelry)
ReplyDeleteIt looks both intriguing and intimidating - which is a good thing! I like knitting challenges!
ReplyDeleteRachelKnits on Rave
What a cool and unique construction!
ReplyDeleteI love this unusual construction! You must have an amazing mind--I'm so in awe! Love it.
ReplyDeleteharrps57 on ravelry
I loved being part of this MKAL! I still have a bit left to finish on the shawl, and I am even more committed to finishing it. This has been the best KAL I have been a part of! Thank you, Laura!! Julsvern on Ravelry ��
ReplyDeleteBeautiful, don't you just love it when a project gets you so excited, you just can't put it down!
ReplyDelete