There has been a lot of love for plant fibres lately here at Knit With Attitude. I think we are getting excited about summer and dreaming of all those outdoor knitting days. Also what is more exciting than introducing a new yarn! So here we go…. Nurturing Fibres Eco-Lush. A unique bamboo and cotton yarn from Nurturing Fibres.

Nurturing Fibres is an Eco-friendly yarn range, hand dyed near Cape Town by Carle Dehning and her team. Nurturing fibres strive to conserve as much energy and waste during their production process. They make use of borehole water that is heated by solar power for their dye baths. After dyeing, the PH levels in the dyebaths are neutralized and the water is used to irrigate an olive grove near the dye studio. Their whole production process, from receiving the spun yarn, is done by hand.

Eco-Lush is a 4ply 40% Bamboo and 60% Cotton yarn plied together with a cotton strand and a bamboo one. The quality of these two fibres bring something unique to the yarn. The cotton is matte in texture and provides a slightly muted base for the dye. The bamboo on the other hand is glossy, with sheen and takes the dye in a much brighter and more vibrant way. The bamboo adds a bright flash to this yarn that catches the light in a pleasing way. This yarn has good body and weight, will drape well, be cool and perfect for summer items.

Lets take a look at some projects that would look great knit up in Eco-Lush, by focusing on simple summer tees:
Edie by Isabell Kraemer is a simple t-shirt worked from the top down with raglan increases. Interest is given by textural stripes. This top will look stunning in the blend of Eco-Lush. The simplicity of it highlighting the yarns qualities.

Waterlily by Meghan Fernandes. This charming top is not only pretty but also cool. A lacey leaf panel around the neck, which extends to the top of the capped sleeves. Worked from the bottom up in one piece, for the perfect seamless knitting. There is even a Latvian braid that marks the transition into the lace pattern.

Linum Tee by Bristol Ivy. The very graphic shape of this top enhances its lightness. Made for a drapey yarn and perfect for Eco-Lush. An angular fisherman’s rib panel, top’s off the design and gives a bit of flair.

Walk Along by AnkeStrick is an intriguing two colour design which creates the illusion of two tops in one. Perfect if you can’t decide on just one colour! The top is worked seamlessly from top down with a wide raglan shape that carries down the body. A flattering and practical piece.

Folded by Veera Välimäki. With a wide round neck for non stifling summer comfort, this top is stylish and cool. Pleats at the centre front add a nice design detail, but also help highlight and give interest to the shape.

So here we have some inspiring designs for summer tees and the perfect projects for the new Eco-Lush.