There a six new colors of Ushya from Mirasol for the fall. This 98% Merino Wool, 2% Nylon blend yarn has a chainette construction, which gives it bulk and loft while remaining light and fluffy. The air pockets created by the unique construction will help keep you warm.

With a suggested gauge of 2 to 2.5 sts per inch on a US 15 needle you’ll be able to finish projects quickly.

You might remember that over the summer knit the Tatu Cowl from the Ushya & Sulka Book #27 is just a few days.

I wanted to highlight some of the beautiful patterns, both old and new, using this yarn.

Mirasol Book #30 by Claudia Wersing

Isn't this fair isle coat beautiful?

This stunning color work coat is called “Oriental Dream.”

I like the details of the corrugated rib and the generous fold over collar.

Love the cables on the Cayenne vest

For something a little simpler consider the “Cayenne Vest.”

This project highlights that despite the fluffy nature of Ushya yarn it has good stitch definition for cables or pattern stitches.

You can find both these patterns in the new Book #30 by Claudia Wersing (Miski, Sulka, Ushya) by Mirasol.

Book #19 by Jane Ellison

This was the first Ushya book to come out.

It features sweaters, scarves and even pillows!

All you need is a cup of hot coco!

I like the Jacob sweater.

It looks warm, cozy and comfortable, but the all over pattern stitch keeps it sophisticated. I think it would be good for either curled up on the couch knitting and drinking coco or going out to lunch with friends on the weekend.

You can see all the patterns from this book here.

Independent Designs

I was wandering around Ravelry the other day and noticed there are many patterns listed for Ushya. The first few rows are Jane Ellison’s patterns from the official books (which makes them easy to review), the bottom of the page and onto a second page and patterns by independent designers.

There are hats, scarves, and cowls that all take advantage of the warm and chunky properties of this yarn.

Two patterns caught my eye.

Springy Sproingy Cowl by Shannon Squire. Photo by Vivian Aubrey

The Springy Sproingy Cowl is by Shannon Squire at Twisted Yarn Shop, a local yarn store in Portland, Ore. You can see the other lovely pictures Vivian Aubrey took of the cowl on the Ravelry project page.

I like the combination of open and closed panels used on this cowl, which calls for just one skein of Ushya. Best of all the pattern only cost $1!

I think between this cowl and the Tatu Cowl you could cross a bunch of gift knits off your list in a weekend.

tree by leaf by Courtney Buckalew-Kramer

This is the tree by leaf by Courtney Buckalew-Kramer at Mosaic Yarn Studio, a local yarn store in Des Plaines, Ill.

Isn’t it stunning?

I like the grand scale of the leaf motifs. This wrap is very eye catching and unique. It’s sure to be a conversation starter when you wear it.

It looks like the pattern requires 2 skeins of Ushya (might be best to buy 3 and either return the extra or use it to make a hat). The pattern costs $5, which is standard for an independent designer and worth the money since you can get right to the fun of knitting.

Free Patterns

Speaking of knitting a hat, don’t forget that we have a free pattern for a one skein Ushya hat on our website.

Free pattern on our website

Worked in the round on US13 needles you’ll be finished knitting in practically no time at all.

Free pattern on our website

If more than your head is cold you might want to also download the free Ushya sweater pattern while you’re there.

This modified drop shoulder pullover will be suitable for an advanced beginner looking for their first sweater project, or an experienced knitter looking for an easy project.

It’s worked in garter stitch and the only shaping is around the arms.

The next time you’re visiting your local yarn store give Ushya a squeeze. I’m sure you’ll be enchanted.