Pattern spotlight: Bittersweet Cowl by Carrie Bostick Hoge from MAINE knits
Knit in Quince & Co. Osprey, this cowl knits up fast, has a delicious texture and is super functional.I was so thrilled with the way this photo shoot came out! I have had this hat for ages collecting dust, but it's something I won't part with. I knew immediately I would use it to style this piece when I started thinking about styling. The t-shirt Alicia is wearing in these photos (thanks again for modeling, Alicia!) is a Scout Tee I made from the Grainline Studio pattern. It was important to me to style with some handmade items, as that's usually what you can find layered with my own hand knits.
Here is Carrie to tell us more:
Bea: Where did the inspiration for this design come from?
Carrie: The inspiration for the Bittersweet cowl came from the backyard of my old house. It was wild, climbing over fences, trees, and wires. I know it's an invasive plant so I'm not supposed to like it, but there's something about the way it covers the world with green that I can't help but enjoy. And the tiny pops of color during the Fall are always pretty.
Bea: What people, places or things in Maine inspire you and your work?
Carrie: One of the best parts of living in Maine is being near the ocean. The smell of the airy, the sound of the gulls, and the beautiful coastal scenes are truly inspiring. Always.
Bea: What is your favorite time of year in Maine?
Carrie: My favorite time in Maine is Fall. The plants turn into gorgeous shades of rusty oranges and reds which are incredible! The Fall festivals begin. The apple orchards are bountiful with fruit. It's a fun time to live here. Summer is beautiful, too, though. A day on the beach is pretty special, especially since the season is so short. Each warm day we have here is something to savor.
Bea: Describe your perfect Maine day.
Carrie: A perfect Maine day would be going a Fall festivals with my family or apple picking...being outside in nature with my husband and girls is the best.
Thank you Carrie!