Knitch Magazine

Yarn Name: S. Charles Collezione Diamante
Review Date: December, 2011
Date Introduced to Market: Fall 2011

The Look

New from S. Charles Collezione comes Diamante, a uniquely constructed yarn that is part air and part diamond studs. Using a chainette construction, the Italian masters wove together two crinkly strands of yarn interspersed with polyester metallic slubs. By interweaving a darker contrasting strand, the main color yarn appears to be suspended in air and the diamond studs float on this 3-dimensional surface. Diamante is strong, resilient, and lightweight. It is a good choice for delicate lace patterns or heavily cabled garments.

The Feel

S. Charles utilizes a new polyester metallic fiber to add glimmer but no scratchy metallic edges. The waffle weave inflates this blend of wool and nylon leaving it beefy but light and soft. Diamante rates #8 on the softness scale.

Softness Scale

The Patterns

Collected in the booklet Moonstruck are several pattern suggestions from Tahki Stacy Charles for Diamante. You will be moonstruck by the spectacular cabled shrug featured on the cover. Also included are a classic cabled pullover, a simply sophisticated tee and in-demand accessories like the slouch beret, cowl collar and gauntlet gloves. Clearly, Diamante is a fashionable choice for your fall knitting.

Color Range

Diamante is available in 6 jewel- inspired colors: pearl, onyx, pewter, mahogany, jade and garnet. The dual-toned chainette construction is studded with glittery bits of polyester metallic for a subtle shimmering effect.

Working It

Extraordinarily lightweight and resilient for a bulky yarn, Diamante is quick and enjoyable to knit. There is no need to tug or pull the stitches into shape; they line up naturally and keep their shape so there is almost no need to block. The unique chainette construction makes Diamante light but thick so it works up in the bulky range of 15 stitches over 4 inches but remains airily lightweight. It will support cables or lace patterns without drooping.

What I’d Like to Make with It

Slouch berets are very fashionable this year and the style is becoming for most people. Diamante is highly resilient and very light weight, so the extra fabric needed for a dramatic slouch won’t drag the hat off your head. It will keep its shape but still feel light as a feather without flattening your hair.

Knitting Outside the Box

Because Diamante is soft, resilient and light weight, use it for a warm winter wrap. Whether you prefer something with sleeves like a shrug, a long stole or a lacy shawl, Diamante will work up quickly into a shapely accessory. Even though there are only 104 yards per skein, only about 6 rows are needed to knit an inch. If you work in an open lacy pattern, the yarn will go even farther. Two skeins would be enough to make a deliciously long scarf.

Blocking It

Lay flat to dry. Do not apply heat. Fortunately, Diamante does not require much blocking.

Washing It

Hand wash in cool water using a mild soap. Support your garment while it is wet to avoid stretching. Do not wring or twist.

Wearability

The bounce is woven into Diamante, so it should wear well without matting or losing its shape. Be careful not to snag or pull the loosely woven fibers.

Overall Recommendation:

Another high quality yarn from S. Charles, Diamante is worthy of your consideration. I recommend it #9.