The sweetest top knit in Koigu Jasmine, our newest dk weight merino by designer Rachel Kurihara. The Riley Tee is a simple cozy tee with double folded edging and a twisted rib saddle shoulder detail that continues down the sleeve.

The pattern is sized from XS - 5X and uses the colour Jasmine 2361. It is the perfect pattern to try out Jasmine, and knit for yourself. Something we love about hand dyed yarn is the colour variation you get as every skein is slightly different. This is especially noticeable in the above photo which shows the beautiful variation in our solid Jasmine yarn. You can find the pattern on both Etsy and Ravelry. Here >>>>

We’ve been following Rachel for a little while now and have loved her content and patterns, especially the bobble sweater which is in my to make list. For those that might not know Rachel we decided to ask her a few questions to get to know her better as a maker.

What are some facts about you? Ie . where you live? If you have family ? pets? education?

I am a stay-at-home mom to two boys, ages 2 and 3.5. My family and I are located in San Diego, CA, and I just started designing in 2021!

What started you to Knit or Crochet?

My mom actually taught me the very basics of knitting when I was in middle school, but I only knew how to knit and purl and that’s it! I remember knitting many wonky scarves for friends for Christmas!

How many years have you been crafting?

I technically learned how to knit in middle school but didn’t knit for many years again until 2018, when I started knitting for my son. Then I knit my first garment in 2019 during Covid lockdown and was hooked ever since! So about 2-3 years now.

How has knitting or crocheting affected your life?

Knitting has been my absolute comfort during this pandemic! Also, as a mom, it has been something constant that I have for myself, that I can enjoy and unwind with at the end of the day.

What is your favourite stitch?

Definitely brioche stitch at the moment. While it does take longer to see progress, I am absolutely obsessed with the squish!!!

Who is your designing idol?

I am a huge fan of Jessie Mae. I admire how well written her patterns are and how inclusive she is!

Who do you make for most?

I started out making exclusively for my little ones, but these days I definitely knit the most for myself!

What is your ideal knitting or crocheting environment?

I would love to take a trip to the mountains one day and just set up a hammock and knit all day!

What is your favourite project you have ever created?

It’s so hard for me to pick out one specific project because I feel like each project is so special in their own way, but I do have to say that my Desert Bloom Top will always have a special place in my heart as my first design!

Is there any form of crafting or making your interested in trying?