Ascona

Growing up, my family often vacationed in the charming town of Ascona, nestled along the shores of the stunning Lago Maggiore in southern Switzerland. On beautiful days, patches of the lake would come alive with tiny, triangular white sails gracefully dancing against the backdrop of the vibrant blue sky and shimmering water. Watching these sails move effortlessly in the distance became a cherished memory.

With this innovative stitch pattern, I aimed to capture that nostalgic memory of those windy yet pleasantly warm autumn days, observing the elegant sails far out on the lake, reminiscent of swarms of water birds gracefully gliding across the surface. This design uses a creative combination of twisted stitches and spaced increases, resulting in a design that leans and lists, mimicking the gentle movement of boats billowing under full sails in a soothing breeze.

Yarn: For this project, I used Shelridge Yarns DK, a luxurious blend of 100% superwash merino wool. Each skein offers 265 yards (242 meters) per 100 grams (3.5 ounces). The sample shown utilizes just 1 skein in the lovely colorway Sage, or you can opt for any DK weight yarn totaling approximately 200 yards (183 meters).

Needles: You will need a US size 6 (4 mm) 24” (60 cm) circular needle, or another size that allows you to achieve the correct gauge, ensuring your project turns out beautifully.

Gauge: Achieving the right gauge is essential for a successful project! This pattern requires a gauge of 22 stitches and 28 rows per 4” (10 cm) in stockinette stitch. Each pattern repeat measures approximately 2” wide by 1.5” tall, allowing for an intricate and visually appealing finish that mimics the serene beauty of a sailing day on the lake.

Embark on a leisurely knitting journey with this unique pattern, bringing a piece of Ascona’s tranquil charm into your home. Let the waves of creativity flow as you knit your own reminder of those enchanting boat-filled memories!