Join the first ever Scheepjes Knit-A-Long and enjoy a unique collaborative knitting experience!
Carmen Jorissen of New Leaf Designs has been inspired both by the book and hit TV series Outlander and fond memories of holidays spent in the Trossachs and Cairngorms National Parks. The Sassenach KAL intends to transport knitters from far and wide on a journey through the majestic Scottish landscapes. Carmen has designed a pair of complementary cushion covers exclusively for the Sassenach KAL. Knitted using the stranded colourwork technique, each has its own nature, reflecting the spirit of the two main Outlander characters. The Claire cushion features motifs based on medicinal herbs while the Jamie cushion includes tartan patterning. Both are knitted with Scheepjes Metropolis, an Extra Fine Merino Wool blend yarn known for its warmth, soft touch and slightly heathered appearance.

Timeline

The KAL will be announced on 12th January 2022 and begin on 23rd February. One week before the start, a Tips & Tricks document will be published. The KAL will conclude on 11th May with the presentation of the bonus project.

The KAL Kits

Three ready-made kits have been created for the Sassenach KAL, containing the required yarn and a selection of haberdashery items for making two cushion covers and a bonus project. Three colour palettes have been thoughtfully selected. Choose from Erica (heather) influenced by Highland scenery, Rosa (rose) or Cirsium (thistle) based respectively on the English and Scottish national emblems.

Kit contents:

- 12x 50g and 1x 10g Scheepjes Metropolis yarn (75% Extra Fine Merino Wool, 25% Nylon)
- 2x 60cm zippers
- 1x Letter from the designer (English and Dutch only)
- 2x checkered buttons and 1x kilt pin (for bonus project)

Additional project requirements (not included in kit):

- 1x 2.50mm circular knitting needle 80cm
- 2x 3.00mm circular knitting needles 80cm
- 2x cushion inserts (50x50cm)
- Sewing needle + matching thread
- Stitch markers (optional, but very helpful)

Pattern

The pattern for the Sassenach cushions is written for intermediate to advanced knitters and will be published in 10 weekly parts as a free PDF on scheepjes.com and in the Official Scheepjes Facebook groups. One week before the KAL, a Tips & Tricks PDF will be released with information concerning materials, gauge/tension, measurements, pattern notes and charts. A video by the designer will be shared at the same time, covering everything participants need to know to get started with the KAL, such as Judy's Magic Cast On, how to knit with 2 sets of circular knitting needles and how to float the yarn when using stranded colourwork. In addition, there will be weekly blog posts and a video explaining zipper insertion.