Working With Variegated Yarns

A message was posted to the CP list about working with variegated yarns. This got me to thinking. Why have I always loved variegated yarns? This is what I finally decided on. All those colors at one time, knowing that the colors are going to change at regular, measured intervals but at the same time not knowing when or how that change is going to take place depending on the stitch/pattern that is being used. For example, I have made granny squares that have each round a different color. My sweater I made, had the same color repeat for every other row, so that when I did the pattern rows, the sequence gave a rainbow effect. I also made a snake with camoflage yarn and it turned out to have the darker colors on one side (which I used as the top when I sewed on the eyes) and the lighter colors on the other side. Completely unplanned on my part, yet anticipated once I notice it. (it also looks like I planned it that way to the average Joe on the street LOL therefore making me look extra smart with a hook and yarn ).

On the other hand I made a baby afghan with Homespun in Blue Ridge where I wanted to let the yarn do the talking rather than a fancy pattern. I did it in nothing but straight rows of double crochet with a row single crochet and then reverse single crochet around the edge. I didn't get pictures of it, unfortunately before it was sent to the expectant mother, but the effect was stunning. Even though that color is a pretty even mix of blue and gold, the afghan looked like a clear night sky: all midnight blue with specks of gold.

When AC Moore had a two-fer sale on their Red Heart Super Saver yarn, did I take advantage to get yarn for the various holiday projects I have on the board? No. I went through grabbing up different colors of variegated yarn that I wanted to try out. Don't get me wrong, I love solids. I did that same sweater pattern in soft white for my mother-in-law last year for Christmas and enjoyed every stitch, and have actually done a lot (if not most) of my recent projects in solid colors, but my first love will probably always be variegated.