When we are working on a collection, Mel and I often knit several samples of a single design. This not only allows us to test and hone the pattern instructions (for maximum knit-ability, and knitterly-ness) but means we get to see how a design appears in alternate colourways. For Sterntaucher, we thought it would be fun to knit a two-shade version that’s very different from the multicoloured original.
We selected Mooring and Faded Overalls for this sample, and Mel knit the cardigan up super-quickly.
But as these are colours I love and wear a lot, I’m afraid I claimed the sample just as speedily!
We’ve had a few queries about how the construction works: the cardigan starts with a steeked section (which enables you to knit the deep band of colourwork in the round). When the colourwork is complete, you set two sets of stitches aside, while knitting across two pocket flaps, and then bind off the steek stitches to enable you to knit the rest of the cardigan back and forth. Working most of the cardigan body back and forth minimises any additional bulk from steek stitches, and the nifty way the pockets work means that the steek edges that are there (at the bottom of the cardigan) are actually very neatly contained by the garment finishing. Take a look:
Here you can see the ribbed band, the beginning of the steek, and the pocket flap, which squirrels away the raw steeked edge.
From the outside, the pocket tops are nicely completed with i-cord and the finished fabric of the garment is stable, neat and seamless.
. . . and of course very cosy!
I love the wintery feel of the two-shade Sterntaucher.
And always enjoy how a new palette makes me see a design a little differently.
If you enjoy this colourway and would like to knit yourself a two-tone Sterntaucher, we now have kits in the shop.
The pattern is also available as part of the 10 Years in the Making book, as well as an individual download, on Ravelry or in the KDD shop.
KDD & Co 
What a piece of artwork! I am such a basic knitter but I have been so intrigued by all of these incredible patterns. Kate, what is the patterns name that you have on with the yoke of children that you are wearing? I would love to get the pattern, study it and find the courage to make it.
My best,
Mary
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that’s the paper dolls pattern, Mary – you *can* knit it!
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SO comfy looking! Nice.
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Ah when I read the lead in to this, I thought you were going to be holding two shades together to do the main body of the knitting. I didn’t envision what you might change up in the patterning area, but that could have been most anything. There are so many possible variations with colors, esp. when you have two strands to work with (shading, etc.). I love the sweater’s design. And want to let you know, just in case no one has, in North America your inspiration bird is a Red-throated Loon. A lovely bird.
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Thanks for the close-up photos of construction details here. Practically a tutorial without words!
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What a clever construction technique. I’m almost inspired to give steeking a try.
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I love this in the original colours and the two tone – tough decision! I’ve just ordered the book and may try to do this as a tunic. Can’t wait for the book to arrive!
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I imagined Sterntaucher in a two-colour version the moment I saw it – and now you are showing it! It looks equally stunning with two colours as it does with multiple colours. Now I need to go off and swatch to decide on the colour combination.
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Hi Kate, yesterday I received your book ‘Ten years in the making’ and the patterns are really beautiful, as is the book. You have a lovely figure and you really show the garments beautifully. Now as I have rather a large size, it would be so nice to have photo’s in the book of someone showing the patterns in large sizes too, so us big girls can imagine how the cardigans and sweaters would suit ús. Would that be possible for future pattern/books? Thank you and good luck with future projects.
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unfortunately, I’m the only model we can use right now, due to local social distancing restrictions! The book was produced and all photography completed under those restrictions last year. We often celebrate knitters of all shapes and sizes wearing KDD patterns in posts here on the blog, and certainly hope to return to using other models when that’s possible.
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I am almost finished with my Sterntaucher in the original colors. My husband was admiring the pockets, and loves cardigans, so I was thinking about how I might knit a version for him. Your gorgeous two-tone version gives me some good inspiration!
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Thanks for sharing.
Amazing how different the two shade design is. I liked the Sterntaucher but would probably not knit it for myself, with the two shades it might be a different story.
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