GAL Fantasy vs. Reality Day 3

Left: Ballyronan by Michelle Stead, Right: Chasing Waterfalls by Michelle Stead, photos copyright Michelle Stead.

Left: Ballyronan by Michelle Stead, Right: Chasing Waterfalls by Michelle Stead, photos copyright Michelle Stead.

Today's fantasy knitting is Ballyronan by Michelle Stead, (Crafty Flutterby on Ravelry).

Ballyronan is a cowl with lace and textured stitches that make for a pretty pattern, one that is perfect for variegated or semi-solid sock yarns (and who doesn't have plenty of those).  I think I would to knit it with a yarn that has a little halo, maybe an bit of alpaca or cashmere blended with wool.  A light and airy cowl that is cozy and warm too.

If you want to knit lace, but need a quick project, maybe a last minute gift, take a look at Chasing Waterfalls.  This is a beaded bracelet that only requires 30 yards of leftover sock yarn.  These knit up so quickly you will be able to fill a lot of stockings.  I like the idea of using one as a coffee cup cozy.

Check out the rest of Michelle's pretty Gift-A-Long designs on Ravelry, and her lovely shawl pins on Etsy.