| Mirasol Lachiwa |
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| Written by Barbara Rottman | |||
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The Look Among the interesting new yarns Mirasol brought to consumers in 2010, Lachiwa is a honey of a hit. It’s a blend of 60% Pima cotton and 40% linen and -- yes -- the name for this new yarn is taken from the Quechan word that means honey. Lachiwa is a smooth yarn, traditionally spun with a medium twist on the very short fibers. You’ll notice a slight haze to this yarn created by the ends of the short linen and cotton fibers escaping the confines of the twist. Tug on the end of a strand and you’ll release the fibers into a puff of down. This simple test will tell you that you can expect Lachiwa to be soft and fluid.
The Feel No need to wash this yarn dozens of times to release the softness in the cotton and linen. It’s already relaxed, like a much loved and often worn cotton tee. Lachiwa ranks #7 on the softness scale.
The Patterns Jane Ellison has dedicated herself to supporting this line with a myriad of wonderful patterns. Her Book 11, Lachiwa for Men and Boys, includes six designs expressly for the guys. If you think about it you’ll see this relaxed yarn is a great choice for men who often relish a slouchy sweatshirt over a structured garment. These patterns are traditional favorites with a twist: a zipper front hoodie, V-neck pullover, and cardigan sized for toddlers to men. In this book, Jane adapted one pattern by making small and subtle changes that created completely different garments.
Color Range Mirasol produces Lachiwa in eight pastel shades from white to lilac. Don’t limit your thinking to baby projects. As Lachiwa for Men and Boys illustrates, these colors can be attractively combined in unexpected ways that flatter all ages.
Working It Working with premium quality yarns is one of the pleasures knitters enjoy. Lachiwa knits smoothly and consistently. It readily knits to a gauge of 20 – 22 stitches over 4 inches with crisp stitches. The yarn is not resilient, so choose patterns that emphasize straight lines and relaxed fit. You will need to add tailored shaping and elastic stitches like ribbing if you want more shaping. Better yet, don’t fight the yarn. Use this light weight yarn in projects that don’t require form fit.
What I’d Like to Make with It Extend the suggestion to knit for men and boys to use Lachiwa in a comfortable feminine sweater or soft baby blouse. Lachiwa is a good choice for your next lace project, be it shawl, shrug or sweater. The excellent stitch definition produces crisp stitch edges and uniform yarn-over holes. Moreover, Lachiwa produces a flowing drape that enhances lovely lace. You may also like Lachiwa in mitered knitting, again for its good stitch definition coupled with soft drape.
Knitting Outside the Box You could knit a mesh bag for the beach or shopping, but I might reserve Lachiwa for a garment or lace project. It’s so soft, fine and touchable that you’ll want to wear, not carry, this yarn. For a quick test, try Lachiwa in a long lacy scarf to accent your summer wardrobe.
Blocking It Dry flat. Do not tumble dry. May apply light iron to block.
Washing It Gently hand wash using mild soap.
Wearability Linen and cotton are sturdy fibers that will wear well. These fibers continue to soften with washing and should retain the fresh appearance, softness and fluidity. Overall Recommendation Lachiwa is a terrific new yarn, produced with care to preserve the quality of the premium fibers. With your purchase of Lachiwa or any Mirasol yarn, you can feel good, too. The Mirasol Project (www.mirasolperu.com) supports local communities in Peru through the sales of the Mirasol Yarn Collection. Peru’s heritage and culture of textile artistry is rich and ancient. The Mirasol Yarn Collection includes yarn made from the animals tended by these communities for generations in the Peruvian highlands. Without them we would not have this beautiful yarn. By purchasing the Mirasol Yarn Collection you are supporting the shepherds and their families, ensuring the continuation of this tradition. A portion of every purchase goes directly to the funding of a center in the remote area of Munani in the region of Puno. This yarn earns a #9 rating.
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Yarn Name: Lachiwa (a Quechan word meaning honey)
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