Felted Tweed Rowan yarn how to paint with wool

Rowan‘sFelted Tweed yarn is one of the most beloved choices in the knitting world, chosen by so many designers and artists for its light but durable texture and especially for its ability to offer a very wide range of colors. Felted Tweed becomes to these knitting artists what watercolors or tempera are to painters and the results are real paintings that can, however, be worn if we are talking about knits or used to decorate the home that we are talking about blankets and pillows. This yarn is a blend of merino wool, alpaca and viscose, which offers a light but warm texture, with a tweed effect in contrasting colors that are, however, always extremely harmonious and allow each skein to blend with the others. There are so many designers who have loved and been able to enhance this yarn, but certainly those who have created the most iconic garments are Kaffe Fassett, Brandon Mably, and Marie Wallin . All three of these knitting artists, each with their own distinctive approach, have taken Felted Tweed to new levels of artistic expression. In this blog we will tell you about the crazy colors of Felted Tweed and how each of them has created amazing garments!

Kaffe Fassett: The Wizard of Color

Kaffe Fassett is celebrated for his bold and masterful use of color. Her garments often feature geometric patterns with contrasting colors that are her true signature, defying convention and enhancing creativity by achieving jaw-dropping results. I believe the most common comment from in front of a Kaffe Fassett garment is: but who knew these colors would go so well together!!! Fassett often employs Felted Tweed to make sweaters, jackets and shawls, and blankets, and each of her pieces tells a unique visual story. Because of the yarn’s slight color variability, even complex patterns such as mosaic or striped patterns seem to have three-dimensional depth. Fassett’s collections often use contrasting shades, such as purple and orange, or green and blue, to create a striking visual effect. We have selected these 2 among the many garments created by this knitting painter, but don’t miss the others go to Ravely to see the masterpieces he has created over the years. One of Fassett’s most iconic patterns made with Felted Tweed is the “Stone Circles Jacket,” a true work of textile art!
In this cardigan; which is patterned with a series of colored concentric circles, Felted Tweed, with its shades, allows for a color depth that makes the colors even more vivid and harmonious. The second pattern we selected is the “Carpet Coat ,” a long jacket featuring an intricate geometric pattern inspired by oriental carpets! Here again, Felted Tweed was key because it made it possible to create a garment that is durable and structured but also lightweight enough to be worn all year round.

Brandon Mably: Geometry and Movement

Brandon Mably, collaborator and protégé of Kaffe Fassett, brings a playful and dynamic perspective to the world of Knitting. Although his style is definitely influenced by Fassett, Mably is distinguished by his bold use of geometric shapes and contrasting patterns that almost seem to be in motion. Felted Tweed yarn is his favorite choice because of its ability to give depth to his creations without weighing them down. Mably is famous for incorporating patterns such as zigzags, spirals and unexpected geometric shapes into his knitsand with Rowan Yarns’ Felted Tweed, he achieves a balance between the intensity of the colors and the sophistication of the fabric. The combination of bright colors with the natural texture of the tweed yarn makes the garments achieve both a modern yet classic look. The two patterns we have chosenare: The “Zig Zag Sweater,” surely one of the most famous: A sweater with a multi-colored zigzag pattern. This pattern enhances the qualities of Rowan Felted Tweed so much because it takes advantage of the delicate hues of the yarn that match perfectly with the bold geometry of the pattern Another pattern we love is the “Octet Vest,” a vest featuring a checkerboard pattern that intersects in a vibrant color scheme. Here, too, Felted tweed is perfect with all the color choices it provides-the garment can take on a more exuberant look or a more classic but still unique look.

Marie Wallin: Traditional and Refined Elegance

Marie Wallin stands out for her ability to combine tradition and innovation in knitwear. Her designs often take inspiration from traditional Fair Isle and Nordic motifs, but with a modern twist that makes her garments highly sought after. Felted Tweed yarn is one of her favorites because of its delicate texture and color palette that fits perfectly with the natural, earthy palettes in her work. One of Wallin’s most iconic patterns is the “Bloomsbury Sweater ,” a sweater inspired by traditional Fair Isle motifs but given a contemporary twist. The natural colors of Felted Tweed intertwine to create a sophisticated yet versatile garment, perfect for those who love classic style with a modern twist.

Another noteworthy model is the “Wren Cardigan,” part of the “Wintertide” collection. This cardigan uses Felted Tweed to bring to life a floral pattern reminiscent of winter forests. The range of colors offered by the yarn makes it possible to create an ombre effect, almost like a painting, making each piece unique.

Felted Tweed Yarn as a Creative Platform

Rowan’s Felted Tweed yarn lends itself beautifully to a wide range of designs. The versatility of this yarn makes it an ideal choice for creating garments for all ages and all seasons, shawls, knitted blankets knitted on needles or crocheted.
This yarn really allows you to experiment with different colorwork knitting techniques and give voice to your creativity.
Tell us if you have already worked it and if and what colors you have combined together!