Simple Bauhaus Throw
Knit a blanket inspired by the clean lines of this early modernist art movement.
By Lisa Shobhana Mason
On any given Saturday, you might find me strolling around a museum or gallery. I enjoy viewing artists' unique interpretations of universal themes and elements, and I'm drawn to the repetition of various designs throughout the ages. From the bold, outsider art vibe of the Gee's Bend quilts to the vivacious designs of the late 1960s, great artworks and movements influence and inspire many of my pieces.
When I designed this blanket, I was thinking of the Bauhaus art movement with its stern and unadorned style. My aim was to create a piece that is sleek and clean, as well as moody and sumptuous. This throw adds warmth to an ultramodern decor, giving the Bauhaus Geometric Throw a 21st-century look.
Materials
2 skeins of Lorna's Laces Heaven yarn, 90% mohair, 10% nylon, 975yds (891m), 7oz (198g), 1 each in colors Pewter (A) and Blackberry (B) or substitute 975yds (891m) of any worsted-weight mohair yarn for each color.
U.S. size 10 (6mm) circular knitting needle, 29"-32" (74cm-80cm) long If necessary, change the needle size to obtain the correct gauge.
Tapestry needle
Gauge: 14 stitches and 28 rows = 4" (10cm) in garter stitch.
Construction Notes: This throw has four 26"×26" squares, for a total size of 52"×52", arranged so that one color shows horizontal garter ridges and the other vertical ridges.
Directions
Step 1: Knit.
Cast on 92 stitches. Work in garter stitch until the square measures 26". Bind off. Knit 2 squares with color A and 2 squares with color B.
Step 2: Finish.
Sew the squares together with mattress stitch, turning 1 pair of colors 90° so that their garter ridges run vertically.
This project is excerpted from YarnPlay (North Light Books), by Lisa Shobhana Mason.
Mason demonstrates how to mix yarns, colors, and textures to create graphic hand-knit pieces, including sweaters, tanks, hats, scarves, blankets, washcloths, and more. And for free-thinkers, Mason teaches how to take a pattern and make it your own.
About the Author:
Lisa Shobhana Mason is the author of YarnPlay. She loves all things handmade — from vintage to modern, kitsch to ultrachic.
