I am sure it will pass

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A few weeks ago, at Port Ludlow, I had an idea.  It was an interesting and delicious idea, and one that I tucked away in the "someday I’ll have time" pile.  The idea wasn’t really happy with it’s placement in the queue, and as the days have trickled by, it has sat in the back of my brain like Glenn Close in that creepy movie where she will not be ignored, and I have finally lost the battle.  I think my critical error was my belief that buying the yarn for this project would take the edge off, and instead it pushed me over. (There’s really no excuse for thinking that would work.)  By yesterday I had it all wound up:

and by last night I had convinced myself that the idea had Christmas present merit, and could therefore be indulged.  I’m going to let the idea sprout and be swatched for 48 hours, and then retire it, unless it’s paid off the way I think it might.  This is December.  There is no time for fruitless knitting. 

I ‘ve started the swatching, and now I have two that I love, though I can’t tell which one I love more.  With black, so the little windows remind me of stained glass,

or without the black, so little scallops of pure colour dance along?

I can’t stop thinking about it.  What colours? In what order? To what end? (Secretly, I know the end, or I think I do.  Winter is coming.)  In any case, this idea has 36 hours left to get itself together, or it goes to the curb. Do you guys prefer the version with black, or without?

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Gifts for knitters, Day Two.

Jewelry.  I know, right now you’re thinking that you’ve bought jewelry before, and it wasn’t really a knitter thing, but what we’re talking about here is jewelry for knitters.  You’ve got three ways you can think about going, depending on your particular breed of knitter. 

1.  Actual knitting themed jewelry, made by someone else.  Like all this really cool stuff from Sassafras Creations.  They take knitting needles and chop them up and reform them into really beautiful things. (Personal favourite, and on my own shopping list – the Floating bubbles necklace.) Maybe a yarn pin from Pinderella?  A sterling silver ball of yarn from Schoolhouse Press? Knit/Purl earrings from Knitpurletc?

2. Knitting tools that look like jewelry, but are secretly useful, like the Knitting Abacus, which looks like a funky bracelet, but is a row counter.  (Trust me, non-knitter, counting is a big deal to your knitter.) Or how about a necklace that’s going to look like a regular piece, but to your knitter and all of his or her friends, it’s a needle gauge? There’s a beautiful one in sterling silver from Knitpurletc, or a fun one that looks like a seashell from Debra’s Garden. (Trust me again here, it’s like the counting thing.  Knitters have to do a lot of measuring and gauging. It’s far more technical than you might have guessed.)

3. You could set your knitter up to MAKE some jewelry, if you think that’s the sort they are.  Dig these beaded kits from Laura Nelkin,  or these kits where your knitter can knit wire to make neat bracelets and necklaces.

I know that this seems like a tough category for the male knitter, not that any of those things wouldn’t work, depending on the taste of your particular knitter, but as a special mention, check out these hilarious buttons for men who knit from Slipped Stitch Studios.  I love them all, but I think my favourite is "Real live knitter: no, you can’t touch me." (The unisex buttons here are also hilarious.)

More tomorrow.  Hang in there non-knitters, and remember, when your knitter says that he’s got a tight knitting deadline, that means you should make dinner. 

648 thoughts on “I am sure it will pass”

  2. Gorgeous, but I think the black makes the colours sing!
    is it odd that I’ve just started a gift blanket for Christmas?
    Kira

  4. I like it without the black throughout – only as the border. I like the colors playing together without the “control” of the black.

  7. I love them both! I guess it depends on the “look” you’re going for…to me the one with black looks a little more “retro” and the one without, more modern. But that’s just me. So what is it going to be, mittens?

  8. I’m torn between the two:
    The black really shows the colors with definition and does remind me of stained glass windows.
    The non-black gently meanders the colors, giving a color shifting that I *really* love.
    Uhm…flip a coin?

  18. I’m not a big fan of black yarn…but I’m voting for the one with the black, because I think it allows each color to be itself…and I’m all about that.

  22. Although I am not usually a fan of black in any form I love the definition that the black offers.

  23. With the black, definitely with the black. Much more interesting that way.
    (So, December 2nd… how close are we to The Famous Schedule?)

  24. Love them both, but would actually wear the one without the black. Hope this continues to gestate nicely!
    If other knitters are like me, your blog is being copied and pasted into a daily email to at least one person who buys gifts for a knitting person.

  28. “…and by last night I had convinced myself that the idea had Christmas present merit, and could therefore be indulged. I’m going to let the idea sprout and be swatched for 48 hours, and then retire it, unless it’s paid off the way I think it might.” Wiping my eyes here, rereading and going off again. It’s the thin candy shell of reason over the deep, chewy core of compulsion I like best, I think.

  30. With black is very striking.
    W/O black reminds me more of Granny Squares.
    Both have merit. Which knits faster?

  31. Definitely without – the individual spots surrounded by black looks …. ordinary. Like something I could find at the mall. Lovely, but rather common. No offense intended – I’m sure either will be fine.
    BTW, just snagged the latest NY Times bestseller by the Yarn Harlot. (It’s been quite a search here in PA without going online). Can’t wait to get home tonight and dive in. Congrats!

  33. I’d be grateful the project that may/may not be didn’t show up with a dead rodent to persuade you to quit ignoring it.
    My vote: without the black.

  39. My personal preference would be the one with the black but the one without allows the colors to flow much better. Love your blog!

  41. I also like them both but prefer the one without the black. Those are happy colors and they want to play together!
    Also, Rams at 1:28 – You nailed it!

  43. Hi Steph!
    Definitely colours with black – i like the stained glass look as well!!

  44. Love it with the black! Bet with the colours you’ve chosen it would even look spectacular with a deep, chocolate brown. (Not to complicate things…)

  46. They are both great, but I’m drawn to the one without the black. That would be my preference, I think.

  51. While they are both lovely, I like the one with the black background. Makes the colors POP! And that’s how you do it!

  54. The colors “pop” more with the black background. Go with the black option! Also, the pic with all the yarns wound up? ::thumbs up!:: Yarn in it’s most simpliest state. So full of potential.

  56. I think that without the black makes the colors look like fall leaves in a pile and I like that. It makes winter go away.

  59. I didn’t like the “swatches are for babies” pin on Etsy. Especially in light of your post today, I think we need “swatches are for babes”.
    By the way, I have no vote because I can not decide.
    What would happen with a deep gray, like solder with oxidation, instead of black? Curious about that.

  62. I like it with the black; so far, it looks like fall leaves on the sidewalk.

  63. You know that 50% of us will say “with black” and 50% will say “without black”, don’t you?
    I vote without black, just in case it really matters.

  65. With the black, deinitely. Also, I am stealing your motif, and maybe even the color scheme, for purposes of my own.

  67. With the black! Love it!!
    And thanks for the Xmas gift ideas! I’ve directed my muggle to read your blog for ideas!

  72. Hmm, no, definitely not the black, I find it’s a bit harsh, too much contrast. Maybe with a dark brown instead? But I think I still prefer without – the shape that each colour makes is nice, more flowy, should make your hand look longer?

  73. I personally like the version with the black as a swatch, but without knowing what it will become, it’s hard to say what version would work better for your intended application (can you tell I’m an engineer?). For example, I think the version with the black works better for cuffs than the version without, but the version without black would be better as the yoke of a sweater than the version with black. But if you’re making a blanket, then that’s something else entirely!

  74. I would vote for without the black…I like the way the colors melt into each other without the harshness of the black between. They seem so much more vivid. Just my opinion though. Lovely colors!! I can’t wait to see what it looks like with all of the others added in…whatever it is you are making.

  80. Looks like it’s going about 50/50. But here’s something to think about–what’s the fiber? If it’s cotton, no black. If it’s wool, with black. At least that’s my opinion.

  83. The first two photos on your post, I liked the sans black the best. The second two photos I liked the swatch with the black the best. In the interest of fairness, I think I must disqualify my promiscuous yarn heart from voting 🙁

  85. Well, I like them both, but the one without the black in between really sings, in my opinion (which is sometimes more humble than others). That’s the one I would choose. I love those colors!

  86. Definitely prefer the one with the black, it makes the color pop more and makes the changes more interesting.

  88. With the black, definitely. I have one of those unisex buttons (I ate your grandma’s knitting for lunch and it was crunchy). I get lots of compliments!

  90. WITHOUT is better in my mind. I think the black kind of makes it look dated. I like the bright colors touching each other in that fabulous way contrasting colors do! Can’t wait to see what you intend it for!

  92. I like it without the black. It looks like flames.
    With the black makes it look too much like little buttony dots/circles. Almost like that candy that you get on paper….not that it isn’t appealing.

  93. Can’t believe I’m going to say without the black. I almost always like the stain glass look better, but in this case I like it better without! Go figure!

  94. With the black definitely. Your gift guide is a wonderful enabler. Can’t wait for tomorrow.

  96. I vote for with the black! I think it makes the pattern look like colorful honeycomb. 😀

  98. Yes, definitely with the black! (Even though I feel like saying the other one, just to be different!)

  99. Without the black, please. It looks like firelight, flames. Warmth.
    With the black it seems to have too much contrast. Having said that, you have given me a great idea!! Thanks!

  101. My vote would be without.
    The main reason is that I adore colorwork that flows. I like flowing colors. Is naice. But, the stained glass look is also gorgeous, it really depends on what it ends up being, and which type you like best. Flowing and also watercolory, or defined and stained glass.
    I love the colors though, really really.

  107. Love them both, and thanks for the gift ideas! Just ordered 2 abacus counting bracelets (one for my sister and one for meeeee .. hooray).
    And I’m feeling Christmas delusional, myself. Went to a nice Christmas stroll yarn sale last night and bought yarn for 3 projects, even though I have only one completed gift, 3 still on the needles, and a couple pair of socks planned in my mind for my sister and her husband.
    And I am a slow a$$ knitter, too. Christmas 2012, anyone? ;))

  108. WITH the black. Ayup. That’s this corner of central Vermont’s vote. (Now, back to choosing a mosaic pattern out of Barbara Walker’s book, for a kid’s vest …..)

  109. Without, unless you’re going for retro. With the black looks like the knitted pillow my grandma had on her couch in 1972. It had one of those foam pillow forms that was roughly the consistency of plywood.

  112. without the black. i can see I’m in the minority, but that’s the way I feel.
    If the little colored circles were substantially bigger than the black ‘background’ I could see using the black.
    Either way, it will be beautiful.. win win

  113. I really like the one with the black. I’m hoping they are mittens. They would be very cool! BTW I read your blog to my boyfriend last night who insists I have enough yarn.

  115. With the black, but just barely. I really like them both. But more importantly, WHAT’S THE PATTERN?!? Must. have. pattern.

  118. They are both pretty, but I like the way the colors flow and blend without the black. Much softer and very cozy looking!

  119. I vote without the black–with the black, it is vaguely reminiscent of the ball band washcloth pattern, and I think that dampens the sophistication of the pattern (which is beautiful).

  120. I like with the black. The best you could come up with male knitters was buttons???? Yikes!!

  121. I like it without the black, but that also depends on how much black there will be in the rest of the project (mittens??) to balance it out.

  122. I like them without the black. You can make the colors flow into each other. Gotta love that slip stitch thing. I just learned that at a class I took:) Oh, yeah! You were there too!

  126. What I do when I can’t make a decision is to flip a coin. Then if I feel the slightest twinge of disappointment when I see the result, I know that the other outcome is what I truly wanted.
    (but I say use the black)

  127. May I be one of the few to say the colors both look fabulous and to make your own choice? AND that I really enjoyed the links to the jewelry. I’m not much of a jewelry person but these were pretty cool. Thank you!

  128. WITH the black. So funny that so few people are on the fence; most have a decided preference. But that’s good: You really can’t go wrong. But for me, the black makes it special.

  130. They can’t be mittens because you’ve got so much yarn. Hexapuffs maybe?
    I have a slight preference for the black, which, just to complicate things, is showing up as a nice chocolate brown on my monitor.
    But if the field of color were very large–a blanket or such–there’d be a risk of the black being too overwhelming.

  131. I think those are to be mittens…
    If I were knitting them, there would be one with the black and one with the colors. Alternately, I might do the cuff in the colors and transition just before the hand to the black.
    Now you see I was also the one that in high school convinced my mother I needed 2 pairs of converse shoes to get me through the school year so I could wear one of each color at the same time. Left foot: blue, right foot: purple.

  132. I’m torn. I like them both as well. Is this the kind of project that could sustain them both in an alternating fashion?? It would add some busyness to the project, but depending on the project that may be okay.

  136. There’s more flow without the black. It seems more grown-up and sophisticated without the black.
    It seems ‘bit-and-piecey’ with the black. Kind of childish.
    Just my opinion.

  138. With the black the colors are just a tiny bit more masculine, but somehow the design itself looks more feminine that way; either way it reminds of an afghan.
    Also, either way it looks like autumn leaves; don’t faint into a pile of leaves if you’re wearing it and need someone to notice you. In snow it would show up better.

  141. I think that the black has the great stained glass effect you mentioned. It looks really great that way.

  142. I love the one with black, so dramatic. But even more important, what is that beautiful yarn with some many great colors!? PattiO

  143. I like it with the black…then again I wish I knew what it was and where it was headed before I had to say!

  147. With the black, definitely…
    Although I can see the point that the people who prefer this without the black are trying to make, I think it will look so much better with the black when you incorporate the cooler colors.

  150. I personally have a thing for stained glass – I can’t look at it enough – it mesmerizes me. I think it’s because each color pops to the front all on it’s own. So, my vote – go with the black – the colors come alive.

  154. Once you go black… I’m still voting for it. Whatever it is, it’s all kinds of awesome, and I’ll be hanging from the edge of my seat until you see fit to tell us what it is!

  156. I like the black for a small project, but without for a larger project. Also, is colorwork in the air now?! I think the colorwork mitten bug has bitten our knit group.

  159. With the black, and my friend Amy has a link to more knitted jewelry. Beautiful hand-made necklaces. If any of these readers are in Brooklyn, they’ll be on sale at the PS 321 holiday shop.

  160. 34 hours. Did you set the timer?
    Is this one of these posts where we vote for our favorite? My vote: you can make either work.
    Who’s in charge? The yarn or the knitter. I think it’s a synthesis.

  164. Depends on “to what end”:
    With the black screams “Mittens”
    Without the black whispers “Hat”

  165. Personally, I like it without the black, I like the ways the colours look autumnal (is that a word?), which will be nice. If they are to be “dressy” mittens (don’t laugh, you know you have them!), then go for the black background. Just my 2 cents…

  166. With the black, definitely. (Of course, it would be better if you had a charcoal yarn that would look more like actual leading, but that way lies madness!)

  170. I’m plumping for black — not because so many others like it too, but yes, it definitely pops the other colours. If you had some cool colours (i.e. blues and greens) in with those warm ones, you might not need the black to ‘pop’ them but…
    P.S. I also quilt, and am studying art quilting, so I’ve been rather highly exposed to the colour wheel lately. 🙂

  171. Oh, definitely with the black! It makes everything pop so much more.
    Winter is coming. You don’t happen to watch Game of Thrones, do you?

  177. I like both, but a preference really depends on what you’ll be making with it…can you tell us or is it a secret from the blog?

  180. WEIRD. I was just studying a very similar tuck stitch pattern this morning in one of Melissa Leapman’s book. I still can’t wrap my head around the fact that this is done one color at a time. (if this is what I think it is) Magical knitting.
    I like it with the black.

  181. depends on the project, but just looking at the swatches, I prefer no black. I especially like how each color dips down with the slip stitch so the colors are interspersed, rather than being outlined by black.
    Love your gift suggestions! wow, there are some crazy creative people out there…

  184. I’m going with ‘both’ do colour sections without the black and add a couple of black rows between sections of 3 or 4 colours. Best of both worlds??
    :)k

  187. I like the idea of the black but not necessarily the black color. I’d go without. I love all the colors of yarn in the photo, thought. Especially the blue and cranberry.

  190. Okay, I like the striking contrast of the black but I really like the little dip/clam shell look without the black. So can you make the little clam shell dip with the colors and a black outline? I know, I know, I’m nuts.
    By the way Rams, fun!

  195. Really depends on the project. My first reaction was with the black. But without could really nice too. Size? Shape? To wear or not be worn?

  196. with black. Or you could sub in brown or navy blue…
    Also, I couldn’t help but notice one of the buttons behind your link of gifts for knitters says swatches are for babies. (maybe not…)

  197. Without – 2 votes (dd and me). DD likes the colour flow and I prefer the scallop shape.

  198. Casting my vote for with the black. In the pattern without the black, the lowest stitch of each color sticks out too much for my taste….it’s almost obscene.
    Also, I am so glad my day included a “Fatal Attraction” reference. Love that movie!

  199. Definitely with the black. Gumballs! Stained glass! Contrast!
    Oh, early December, when every creative whim is full of possibility. It’s like being newly pregnant, and your child could be grow up to be anything. Eventually things turn out the way they’re meant to be, but the potential before any choices are made…cast on another.

  200. It’s like “Family Feud”… Survey says?
    They are both VERY nice. But my vote is WITHOUT.

  201. It looks like a mitten to me, not a swatch.
    If the one without black is faster to knit then go with that one first, you can do the one with black as the next one if the first one works out. If something better comes along then you can always do the black one “later”.

  203. It depends on what you’re making, and since we don’t know that, it’s hard to say. Overall, I like it better WITHOUT the black. The black gives you the window pane effect, but looks more retro. Both are beautiful, though, like most of your creations!

  204. The black makes the colours stand out, but dude. It is winter in Canada. We have enough black with all the bare twigs and dirty snow. I say all colour!

  205. Both ways are beautiful, but I vote for without the black because it looks like trees in the fall, in a kind of modernist (modernknit?) take.

  213. Absolutely, 100%, no doubt about it, go with the black. And I can completely understand why you need to get this out of your system. Looks like it will be gorgeous!

  216. The one with the black is pretty, but the one without the black look like wee sheep heads. You can see the shape of the head looking straight at you with muzzle and even little floppy ears.

  219. With the black, also agree it makes the colors pop. If black wasn’t the outline color, I think it’s fine without, but with a black outline I like the black surround the individual colors.

  220. I really like the colors with the black – it looks like stained glass and brings them all together.

  221. Without black is my preference – the colors are more cheerful directly together. The black borders still make it pop.
    Great gift recs! Looking forward to more to come.

  222. I agree with you that both are very beautiful but with the black seems to set each piece apart as a little jewel so I say go with the black

  224. If the finished item will be mittens (or similar small project), with black is both pretty and practical. If the finished object will be afghan-sized, the proportion of black to color scale would drive my eyes crazy.
    Excellent gift ideas!

  229. I vote without the black.
    And if you think her buttons are cute, you should try Slipped Stitch Studios’ WIP bags. I adore them; I have three and have given many as gifts to my knitter friends. They’re amazing!

  233. Both are great, but I love the black, probably for the stained glass effect. Without the black it reads ‘argyle’ to mean, not that there’s anything wrong with that.

  236. Without please. The other reminds me of the knitted tea cosies of my childhood. I now quite like knitted tea cosies but I don’t think this is what you intend to knit ALL the colours!

  237. With or without? Depends on the finished article. In my opinion, on a large piece the black would break up the colours into too many bitty bits. On a small piece the black would be spiffy. Oh, and don’t ‘rainbow’ the colours. Too common.
    On survey-type questions such as this, it’s fun to read the comments, but what about including a clickupon poll counter, a la Ravelry, for immediate and graphic tallying?
    Love the knitting jewelry!

  238. I like the effect of the black, but to me it looks a bit harsh against the other colors. Maybe a dark brown, or a deep navy blue? I also love the no-black version – it looks light and bright, like candles in a window on a winter night.

  239. I think without the black looks more elegant and with the black looks more whimsical. So I guess it would depend on the final product and the intended wearer and purpose. I do like your color choices.

  240. They’re very different looks. If you want the bubbles/window pane look, go with the black. For Flames, go with the solid. It depends on the look you’re going for. (If it matters, now I want to knit a flaming mitten just like your swatch)
    To be honest, you’re not going to get satisfactory results from asking the blog. If the majority say black, you’re going to think that you really like the flames, such a shame, sigh. And vice versa.
    You do know you’re going to have to knit them both, right? If these are mittens (to replace the ones you mentioned you needed replacing), it won’t take long at all. Just do it! If it’s not mittens or something similarly small, please put them in a bag in the back of your closet and step away until January. Really. They won’t fit in your knitting spreadsheet and let you stay the sane woman we love. (well, we love you when you’re crazy, too. That’s the way we are)

  241. Both are very nice – but I would NOT knit the black first personally, so I am vastly out-voted!!!

  245. WITHOUT the black…..though it may be because of the quilter in me….It looks like Patchwork. Very pretty!

  246. I like the one without black around each color change a little better, although they are both beautiful. I can’t wait to see what you plan to make.

  250. 1) It’s your choice (you probably knew that) and I haven’t read all the other posts, but I like the black, stained glass look.
    2) “Swatches are for babies” button…HAHAHAHA!! and LOL!!!

  251. LOVE anything by Sassafras Creations!!! I want that necklace……and a watch……and more earrings….. 😉

  257. Black.
    Colour theory: the black background will make the other colours ‘float’. (think Amish quilts).
    I enjoy the contrast that black gives, however, I don’t think of you as a person who uses much ‘black’. Depends on the end application.

  259. The swatches are both beautiful in their own right. However, being a jewelry maker for quite some time I like the black more. It makes the colors stand out and sing (or speak) for themselves.

  262. With the black it’s more exciting. Without black it’s quieter. I prefer the black, but are you looking for exciting or quiet?

  265. I prefer the swatch without the black. Maybe next you can put up voting buttons so you can just take a quick peek at the vote without having to read all the comments 🙂

  266. Interesting how we see things so differently, isn’t it?
    I love it with the black. Crisper and it pops.

  269. Definitely without. I like the way the colors fade into each other that way. With the black reminds me more of a crocheted afghan. Nothing wrong with that. Just a personal preference.

  271. I love both, and my choice would depend on the project. For something small (mittens, hat), I’d go for the black. For something larger, I’d choose without black. I agree with Violet that the black has a cool retro look.

  275. I prefer it with the black. It makes for a more striking combination.
    That said, I wouldn’t sneer at the other combination, either.

  276. Oooh. The black is cool, but I love the one with less black. It looks so warm and yummy and pretty and mmmmmmm.

  277. I like it without the black.
    And I might send your gifts for knitters day 2 out to anyone who asks what I want.

  281. I like it with the black—love the stained glass look. I’m working on something similar right now!
    Tamara

  282. The beautiful red is getting lost in the black, but the black is needed to make the orange and yellow sing. How about a combo? the red/orange fan as a line then the yellow outlined in the black?

  284. with the black. it really makes the colors stand out. blame it on the compartmentalized way my brain thinks. is it small enough to do it both ways? then you have 2 different looks of the same thing… I know it’s Christmas and there’s that thing that we all need called time but……
    happy decision whichever you choose

  286. I think the black is a wonderful contrast to the bright colors, it makes them pop out of the work. Also, the slipped stitches without the black look really odd to me, and make the colors melt into each other.

  291. I vote for the one without black. I like the way the colors flow together; they look choppy to me with the black. Or, if you can’t decide you could make one of each.

  292. Without. With the black it kinda looks like a ballband wash cloth. Unless, of course, that’s what you’re making, but it seems like a big build up for that…
    Definitely without.

  294. You don’t need my vote, go with your gut.
    But I did want to say THANK YOU for the gift links. I got 3 gifts for my daughter from your links. Awesome!

  295. Oh crap, I looked at it again. Up close, I love the black.
    Then I looked at the top picture, where the swatches are further away…..
    I love how blendy the non-black one is in that photo.

  298. Without the black! I like the flow of colors vs. the chopped up shapes. Either way, though, the pattern would make nifty mittens. = )

  299. Without! But…if you do go with the black, maybe you could do a black to gray gradient that plays with the colors in front? Just another fun idea.

  300. Definitely with the black. However, I am an engineer so please keep that in mind when weighing my comment.

  304. I like it WITH the black!
    Loving your knitterly gift ideas, I had no CLUE there was so much out there!! I want it all, basically ………. 😀

  306. I vote for the black – it grounds the colours better, and they really glow against it. Reminds me of Christmas lights at night!

  307. Personally, I like the one without the black. The colors really pop and seem so much more alive in that one.

  316. Both look great, but in different ways: with black has more visual heft, and is slightly more masculine, whereas the one without black has a lighter, more feminine feel. So, is intended end product meant to be more hefty, or light? Good luck deciding!

  317. Hard decision but I think the one without the black in between so the rows sort of blend from one color to another.
    BTW I am having the same problem sticking to my program. Just found a ‘good’ reason to restart knitting on a sweater for me. Need to wear it to a Holiday Party in 8 days. Well… I can dream as well as the next knitter.
    Whichever way it goes for you I am glad you are having fun.

  321. I like them best with the black. It gives it kind of a 3D effect, making the colors really stand out. Both are beautiful work, and I’m amazed that you can pop out two swatches, which look to be about equal to a third of a mitten apiece, in such a short amount of time!

  322. With the black. It reminds me of my grandmother’s granny square afghan that was on the back of our couch when I was growing up. Each square was surrounded with black.

  325. With the black! But I don’t think I am the only person who feels that way, judging from all the pages I had to scroll through to get here.

  328. Not helping, just saying:
    With the black looks very orderly, little shapes contained in rows.
    Without the black, the slipped stitch adds curves and movement.

  332. I love the swatch with the black outline. It sets the colors off nicely. As you said, like a stained glass window, they stand out and call your attention. While the swatch without the black outline is nice, it’s…well…just nice.

  334. I don’t think you could go wrong with either version.
    But I tend to favor the ‘without’ black because it makes the color-shapes look a little more like they are tessellating.

  339. I like the black, it does make the colors stand out. But with the black you get dots. Without the black you get these really cool colored scallops with a stem that is more unusual, I think, than the black dots. Also more flattering, I think, if it is to be a garment.

  347. I love the black, but I think Margo S. raised some good points. (That’s the problem with being a Libra, you almost always see both sides of an issue.) So do the one you like best. (Black, black, black!)
    I love your gift ideas. I will have to pass them, at least the ones I don’t get for me!

  348. With the black Hands down.
    I have a knitting button that reads “If knitting were exercise, you could bounce a quarter off my arse”

  349. Without the black! Looks more modern, much more colorful and cheery, and the colors can blend together a lot more in brilliant harmony.

  350. without. don’t quite know what’s wrong with me these days as usually I would choose with. without gives it more flow, less structure. Hmmm… I must be on to something here…
    Looks like the main consensus is with. Do you think those peeps like more structure more control? just sayin…

  354. WITHOUT THE BLACK!!! In caps cause is think I’m in the minority. I just love how the colors merge without the interruption of the black.

  357. I prefer with thew black – it looks more modern and graphic; without reminds me of the Victorian revival houses with the ‘Painted Lady’ themes – too twee.

  364. I actually am in the minority here, but I prefer the swatch without the black. I think it’s nice to have just a row or two of black to break up the color groupings, though. But something about the colors by themselves, without the black, seems to intensify the colors. It doesn’t make sense, I know, but that’s the impression I got when I looked at the two swatches.

  366. While I suspect that the black version will garner more votes, I’m going to throw my vote to the one WITHOUT the black background. My personal take is that the colors flow more uninterrupted since they are harmonious with each other. Now, if there were more discordant colors next to each other, I suspect it would probably look more cohesive with the black. Just my 2 cents worth to add to the penny jar.

  369. With the black, definitely!
    Love the gift suggestions so far – I’ve sent the link to hubby.

  370. I’ve decided the one with the black is best.
    I like both, and at first was going to side with the sample without the black. I think I liked that one because the warm tones flow so well together. I tried to imagine how it would look once the cooler colors are added. That’s when I decided the stained glass effect was better.

  376. I like both, but I vote for without. It’s so warm looking, like an autumn day or a cheery fire.

  379. I *hate* black. I don’t think I own a single skein of black yarn. My answer? Absolutely black. Even I would go out and buy black yarn to knit what you’re making. Ho Ho Ho!

  381. I like the one with black better but it kind of looks like the “Mason Dixon” dishcloth that hey used from the ballband directions.

  382. I am weighing in on the without side. I tend to agree with someone’s commet that the black makes it more ordinary or like something you might buy at the mall. I like the piles of leaves analogies.

  389. Without Without Without.
    They look like socks – I think without is the right choice. The 3 non-knitters in my house agree.

  397. definitely with the black. although if you’re using mostly warm colors, a dark brown would be really great in place of the black.

  398. Without. The black seems to make the circles smaller – or maybe that is actually the case? The colors are too small with the black.

  399. Depends. If I were going to wear it, then without the black. But if I’m going to curl up under it, definitely with the black. If it’s not for me, then you’ll have to decide for yourself 🙂

  402. Without. The warm colors and cozy motifs nestling among each other, each with their burgeoning, organic shape–it all lends a “kick back, have a brew, you’re among friends” conviviality, a feeling that seems a little at odds with the separation and stronger contrast in the black swatch. In other words, the black harshes my visual mellow.
    The good thing is, I’m not overthinking it.

  405. With the black, because I love the stained glass look. However, if it’s something you’re going to wear personally? Maybe without the black, because that seems more you.

  406. With the black. It’s pretty either way, but I like the way the black makes the colors pop.

  408. The black adds a richness that makes it look creatively much more intense. The stitches pop. The other colors look more like things one of my grandmothers did. Although still looks good I much prefer the black.

  409. Personally, I’d give up trying to decide and pick both. Why can’t one enjoy wearing two different cuffs? Certainly not as boring as knitting an identical pair.

  410. I’m a vote for With the Black. Hands down. Also can’t wait to see if it grows into a mitten or a sock.

  415. Both are pretty good. The black sets off the colors but the other looks sort of like Bargello which could lead to very interesting places…

  418. While ‘black is beautiful’ the swatch without the black instantly reminded me of trees in autumn in my native Appalachia and the aspen groves in the West. Both make my heartstrings sing.

  423. I like it with the black best. It helps the colors pop out more.
    Could we have the pattern, please?!

  424. I like the one without the black. The colours seem more harmonious with the black separating them.

  425. Both! although it looks like the “blacks” have it.
    Love the buttons! May have to give them to myself.

  429. What is the final product to be? How large will it be? With black is better for something that you want to have the other colors pop and is not very big. Without black is more subtle looking, looks like fall and would work on both small and larger knitted pieces.

  430. WITHOUT! With looks too easy. As in, you didn’t put all of those hours into it that you actually did.

  434. Are you going to add these all up, and the most votes wins? I do hope you go without the black. The black coarsens the design.

  437. Without! I think the colors are lovely together and the color sections look smaller, shapelier, and more integrated – or something – without the black.

  439. Depends on the effect you’re going for, but I personally prefer without the black. It lets the colors blend and dance as they please. They’re both gorgeous, though, and good luck choosing!

  440. I say – black only on the bottom border. I like the look of the design itself without the black. Hoping to see more of this soon.

  441. I like the one without the black. I think it is gorgeous-just like the rest of your patterns 🙂

  452. I usually prefer with black for the colour-popping contrast… but not this time. Without. (Or maybe one of each??)

  454. Looks like with is winning. I like them both, but I really, really love without black because it reminds me of William Morris wallpaper or a Frank Lloyd Wright design. But it really depends upon what you are going to make.

  457. I vote for without the black – much more unique-looking that way, in my opinion. The other kind of looks like the slipped stitch pattern in the ballband dishcloth.
    And thanks for all these Christmas gift ideas…
    for myself!! I have a feeling my stocking is going to be filled with awesome stuff this year 😉

  460. I much prefer the more colorful (to me) one without the black. However, both are quite nice.

  462. I like it with the black. I’m not sure what you are making but I like it and already think I would like to knit it for myself.

  463. With the black!
    Also, thanks for the notes about the Ablet! There is now one with my name on it, somewhere between there and here!

  464. I like the swatch with the black the best. If you’re going to go to the work of using all those different colors, I would really want them to pop so everyone noticed all the work.

  466. I didn’t read all the comments – you get to do that, lucky woman! I vote for the one with the black outline; it really sings! Happy knitting. BTW, I love your shopping hints.

  467. I would choose without the black. It looks less regimental and more feminine to me.
    I enjoying your holiday posts!

  471. Just read through your archives… my eyes may fall out of my head from overuse but I have been laughing so hard it hurts, thank you!
    And I really like it without the black 🙂

  480. With black, no matter what kind of garment. I also want to know what colors of Cascade 220 you are using! Please?

  482. Ordinarily, I’d say with the black, because I like the stained glass window look. However, the colours you’ve chosen and the way you’ve lined them up (dark to light to dark) look FANTASTIC without. I love the way they flow together without interruption.

  485. Absolutely, most definitely with the black, or maybe without. In the close-ups I like without the black, but from a distance I like it with the black. Glad I could help you out here!

  488. Hi, Stephanie,
    I like them both, but the black one I like the most. Mittens? Hat? Both in a set? Tubular scarf? Socks? All good Christmas choices. BTW I have 12 pairs of socks in my Santa’s bag, and the 13th on the needles. So, you know I would do it as socks.
    Julie in San Diego

  489. I vote for another swatch with an entirely different background color – like one of the blues in your pic of the caked yarns.

  495. With the black! Winter is coming. (Am I the only one to think of A Game of Thrones when reading this?)

  497. I am one of those that likes it without the black. The colors are really pretty the way they are and I am onboard with the person that said it looked a little “pac mannish” with the black. Of course it would be easier to say if I knew what the devil you were starting with only 3 weeks until Christmas!

  498. I’m liking the stained glass version. Depends on the project. Blanket – stained glass? Scarf or socks? Without the black. Either way can’t wait to see what you come up with!

  499. I’m voting with WeezKnits. Just the black border is enough black. Lovely colours all together!

  500. I like without better With makes it look more like bobbles. Not that I have anything against bobbles. I just really prefer the uninterrupted flow of the one without black.

  502. BLACK! With the black it looks so current and just fantastic. I want to make one. Do the colors travel in the back so that only one side looks good? I do not usually do color work, but I sure want to learn. This makes me crazy. I want to run out and buy yarn and make it! And there isn’t a pattern :>(

  504. I like the swatch WITHOUT the black. The flow of colors is smoother.
    You have chosen beautiful colors to counter the dreary weather you’ve mentioned lately!

  506. Both are so pretty, but I’m loving the black more. Thanks for posting all these gifts for knitters too. Makes me covet even more lol.

  508. Oh I love how the colors pop with the black! And thanks for the gift ideas, hubby and family are getting copies.

  511. Without the black reminds me of a nice warm fire in the winter. Without black is my vote.

  514. Both are good, depends on what you’re making. With the black is obviously heavier in appearance and suitable for afghans, blankets, pillows, a jacket perhaps (?) but the pattern without the black is more harmonious, lighter, prettier – lets one enjoy the colours themselves without the distraction of the black. I say, whichever suits the project best, as always.

  518. My fav is the one with the black as the Color really pops. I would save the other combo for a project where your goal is a more blended Color feature. Both are great and you highlighted the importance of playing with tests before beginning a full project.
    Thanks

  521. Despite usually loving black with anything, in this case I prefer the one without, just having the black as a border.

  522. With the black. The colors really pop. Just finished your new book that Justin (Austin, Texas) bought for me. Loved it!!!

  523. Normally like with the black…. But here I’d go without, looks kinda waves on the ocean-ish

  527. Without the black, for sure! Usually I like the way the black makes the color pop, but not this time. Save the black for later.

  528. Another gift idea…someone makes a pendant that’s actually three different sizes of cable needles. Wearing it around one’s neck decreases the odds of it sneaking away to the universe of lost cable needles.

  531. without. definitely. and I’m surprised as normally I love how black punches the colours – but on this the colours and shapes all look lovely smoochy together – the black makes them look like odd sheep.

  532. I’m not a multi color person, and don’t like orange and yellow. I like the black at first, but without, the colors are unified and easier on the eye. The “with black” version would be good only in small doses.

  535. Without black. It’s WINTER. Who needs more black. Plus orange and black remind me of Halloween.

  538. With the black. I like both color schemes, but I don’t like the shape of the little balls, with no black. I don’t like that one pointy stitch at the bottom. It lacks the beauty/symmetry of the black framed one. Good luck! You know this project won’t just die.. I say push it forward, not backward.

  539. They are both very pretty, and the play of the colors is lovely. My own personal bias is without the extra black dividing the colors. “With” looks very nice, and is very traditional (though that stitch pattern for me is forever associated with wash cloths and towels). “Without” seems a little more unique, and much more striking. If you go that route, you may want to play with the idea of a periodic black band separating sections of color repeats (maybe after 5 rows of drops or so?) to add to the visual interest.
    With that said…I’m assuming that you’re using the comments as a sounding board and not as a binding vote. The final deciding factor really is who the ultimate recipient will be, and what best matches THEIR taste. Either way, the final product will be lovely (and I’m really hoping that you’ll post at least the stitch patterns for both versions!).

  543. I think without the black…my first instinct was with the black but I like the way the colours sit together and the shape of the individual balls of colour better without the black. Plus the black looks like other patterns done before…the colours together looks fresher and more inventive! 🙂 Just my 2p. 😉

  545. I vote for the black – it has better definition and crispness to my eye.
    And condolences/congratulations on Amanda getting her own place. I remember how glad and sad I was the first time Noa moved out on his own. Another milestone met! Never ceases to amaze how quickly they go from crib to first lease.

  547. I loved it with the black, until I saw the swatch without black!
    Might depend on the size of the piece, because “without” might be too much in a large piece.
    Can’t wait to see the final result!

  551. WITH the black! I love the way it makes the other colors stand out. Your idea would make great socks (always my first impulse). I can also see it as mittens, a hat or even a sweater (but there’s no time for sweater knitting this month). I.can’t wait to see what you make.

  554. The swatch with black looks a little too familiar. There’s something fresh about the other!

  559. I’m with those who like black. Your swatches reminded me of years ago knitting toe mittens for one of our family members with their leg/ankle in a cast. I’ve always liked swatches to get gauge, but this opens up a whole new category of usefulness.

  561. With black, definitely! Makes the colors pop and I love how they look like tiny bits of stained glass. I can see that as a mitten cuff …

  562. Without looking at any of the other comments, I think I like the one without the black better. Although, if you asked me tomorrow, I might change my mind. I like them both.

  564. Ummmm, Christmas is coming pretty quickly – which one knits up quicker?
    from the really slow knitter who is still trying to figure out how to carry a sock on double-pointed needles everywhere without stitches dropping off them every so often …

  565. I like the one with the black for a hat, and without for a scarf. So I think with the black for small areas, maybe, and without for something larger.

  570. black is the new black, the one without just does not sing the way the one with the black does!

  572. with the black – I have seen a baby blanket in this stitch in various shades of green and blue with the black, and it was really beautiful.

  575. Mittens? use the 3 colors as a stripe, bordered in black, for the hands. (Fingers and thumb black, I think.) The stripe idea would make a nice matching hat.
    With the black it does pop more, but depending on your result, will it pop too much?
    Both are lovely, when you get right down to it. What are you going to do with all those other lovely colors?

  576. I’m not going to wade through 600 comments, and I doubt you will either. I vote for the one without the black, although I think my color scheme would be somewhat rainbow-ish with all the primary colors, and might look, oh, I don’t know…like I was carrying around a leprechaun in my pocket?
    Anyway, beyond that, using the black “here and there” might help break up the colors from struggling against each other–perhaps a burst of color here and there (or if it’s a scarf, color only on the ends). But I suppose it would help to know what you’re making too.

  577. It appears that this goes without saying, but… certainly, with the black. Happy Holidays 🙂

  578. I love it without the black. And THANK YOU for the gift ideas, I’ve told my husband and kids to read your blog. I’m hoping they’ll get an idea or two.

  579. Hi Stephanie,
    Hubster loves the black but I like the pure pops of colour edged by the black :0)
    Looking forward to hearing more about the idea :00
    Love Mel x x

  580. Ok, didn’t read all 500+ but I am hoping that NO BLACK between is winning. That is my favorite by far but I could not give you a reason if I had to! Guess I don’t like all the colors being “seperated”. There is enough of that in this world in other things. Let the colors go! LOL

  581. I like both because I always like stained glass effects but I prefer without this time. It’s brighter.

  582. I prefer the version with black, because it has more depth, and the colours look like jewels or lights against the winter night sky. (I’m a huge fan of Christmas outdoor lights, as well, because they make things much more cheerful. I wish people would leave them on through March.)
    Some years ago, there was a company making rhinestone pins that spelled out words, and I kick myself that I never got the one saying “YARN DIVA”. (I never got one that said anything, in any case.) I keep hoping one will turn-up in second-hand store frequented by one of my friends, who will buy it for me as a prank gift and then be astonished when I fall over in glee.

  584. Definitely without black. It looks too polka-doty with the black. I like all the colors supporting each other together. 🙂

  595. With the blank, definitely.
    The one without reminds me of granny squares (which I do like), but I think with the knitting the 1 stitch at the bottom of each colour looks odd, out of place somehow.
    Dieing to see what it will become!

  596. Thanks for mentioning our knitting abacus in your blog, Stephanie. I’ve been a big fan of your writing for a long time now.
    If you tell hubby to email us your favourite colours, I’ll design a style just for you! You may find one in your stocking.
    😉
    Sharon, Ablet llc

  597. I love the Sassafras bits and bobs (especially some of the earrings) but they also remind me a little bit of the sadistic neighbor kid from the original Toy Story movie. (maybe that’s part of their appeal for me!) 🙂
    Thank you for your devotion to us, the knitters who will be gifted this Christmas!

  598. Without please; it looks so warm and cozy and firey good. Maybe it wants a rich, dark sable brown for the borders instead of the black?

  600. Oh dear please don’t listen to all those who said with the black!! I love black myself but in this case WITHOUT the black.

  604. Holy Sheep! I don’t normally look at comments—or make one—but your request for opinions on which method to use made me look at the comment counter at the bottom. When I saw over 600 comments I had to check it out. Wow! Is somebody keeping track of which version got more votes? Stephanie Pearl-McPhee, thank goodness you use your power for good.

  614. Beautiful without the black. Although the black is also attractive, I find it a more jarring effect to look at. And maybe a bit dated? I think it would “wear on the eyes” sooner than the other one.

  619. You didn’t seriously count all these reply, did you? My random selection of the 621 comments here is with the black, which is the right answer.

  620. Both? The without looks like a cuff, the stained glass portion could be the mittens, or maybe some other pattern there (is that what the project is?…that may affect the preference.)

  627. Black. Definitely with the black. After all, how many other people can say that they wear stained-glass mittens (just an abstract guess here)?

  629. Ooh, so many comments. Does poor Natalie have to tally them up in categories?
    I prefer the version with black. But the other one might be nice if the colour combo is”just so’. No, not really helpful, I know, sorry.
    Love your ‘dear non-knitter’ series. I’m leaving prints of it around the house…….

  630. I like the way the colours pop wit the black, but the without black reminds me somehow of upsidedown scale mail. Winter Is Coming.

  631. I like it with the black. I think it makes the colors pop more. Thanks too for the non-knitter gift tips.
    Can’t wait to see what happens in 36 hours.

  634. Without the black. As a winter-warmer scarf, I’d go for firey-bright. The black might look better with purples and pinks. Here, though, let the color blaze!

  635. My eyes keep going to the one with the black so I guess it depends on if you want that part to stand out.

  636. I love the without black better, because I like the shape of the scallops better that way. Maybe if you did the full scallop shape with the spacing and the plain black row (so it looks like each scallop is bordered by the black but still comes to a point) it would be better.

  639. With the black!!! Definitely with the black! I have been reading your blog for years, and this is the first comment I have ever left. THAT is how much I think you should go for the black.

  640. I love the black and violet one but then the orange one without black is lovely. Oh I don’t know but I do know that I NEED that pattern! Where can we buy it?

  643. Really difficult choice… I think I’d need one of each! The black does have that nice crisp and bright stained glass look, but the softness of the other might offset some styles better. Are all your decisions so tough? Great blog. So glad to have found it.

  644. I think the black is quite lovely, but in my house it is a fur magnent. Three cats ( one furry Persian and two shorthairs ), a Pekingese, and a Japanese Chin contribute more than their share to my FURniture and anything dark in colour. I think you need to move to the US and give Pres. Obama much needed help on the health care issues. I had been without insurance after our factory was bought by a Norwegian company, and we all lost our jobs and benefits. Not being able to access affordable insurance means you can’t afford health care. You are so wise and talented!!!

  645. First time I’ve commented, read you often and attended sox class when you were in Sacramento. I love the no black look.

  646. I know that I’m a little late but I prefer the one without the black, except at the cuff. That said, I have to admit that they are both beautiful!

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