Carrying Yarns: Finding Complimentary Colors

Thanks to Sharon, I have another topic to explore regarding carrying yarn, and that is, how do you choose yarn that will compliment each other for the project.

There are several outcomes you can achieve, with respect to color, when carrying two or more yarns.  All are valid, but it is good to know what you are intending.  

If you choose two solids or tonals which are very different from each other you will get a marled look.  Often times people think yarns compliment each other, but don’t realize that when combining them and knitting them at once, the only outcome is marling.  You might want to consider using them for stranded knitting or mosaic knitting if they are very different and don’t want the marled look.  That way, they will both be seen individually.

If you want a more or less solid color, but are after the affect of the two different fibers, then choose yarn as close in color as possible.  If they are very close, they will blend and you will not get a marled look.  

If you have a multicolored yarn, and want to add a solid to it, it is best to match the color that is most dominant in the multicolor yarn.  However, if you have yarn with a very dark color, such as navy, you might not want to use this as your coordinating color as it might be too strong a contrast with the other colors.  Multi yarns that have an overall variegated pattern, rather than stripey yarns are best for this process.  For example, I made two Calliope sweaters using Life in the Long Grass Twist Sock plus a mohair, such as Sensai  or Kidsilk Haze.  Both were slightly variegated and both look great with the solid I picked.  

Worst case scenario . . . make a swatch of the two together before you dive into the whole project.  Oh, we are supposed to be swatching all the time aren’t we?  

Happy Crafting! 

Jennifer