FAQ: Our Rainbows KAL
What is the KAL, exactly?
Andrea Rangel and Gauge are hosting two knit-alongs this summer. Each one is a yarn + pattern kit, and the best part is that you knit it alongside us and a community of makers. June's project is a pair of socks and August's is a shawlette.
Each project is thoughtfully designed: Andrea creates the pattern, and we dye the yarn to match it perfectly.
Your kit includes:
- A skein of self-striping yarn (your choice of 3 colourways)
- A downloadable PDF pattern by Andrea Rangel
- Access to our friendly knit-along in our Ravelry forum
Can I choose my colourway?
Yes! There are three colourways to choose from:
- Human Rainbow — the full spectrum, red through violet
- Canine Rainbow — blues and yellows, the world as your dog sees it
- Feline Rainbow — purples, blue-greens, and yellows, the world as your cat sees it
Pick your favourite when you sign up!
What is the shawlette like?
Our Rainbows is a crescent shawlette designed by Andrea Rangel. It's worked from the centre out with an easy-to-memorize pattern of yarn-over increases and a garter stitch border. When the yarn changes to the contrast colour, you'll work a reverse stockinette stripe — a lovely detail that gives the shawlette a wispy, cloud-like texture. It's a relaxed, satisfying knit from start to finish.
I'm not sure I'm a good enough knitter. Is this for me?
We think so! The pattern is written for a beginner knitter, and the stitch pattern is easy to memorize after just a few rows. If you can knit, purl, and work yarn-overs, you're ready for this project. The KAL community is warm and supportive, and no question is too basic.
What needles and notions do I need?
- US 2 / 2.75 mm circular needles, 32 in / 80 cm
- Tapestry needle
- 4 stitch markers
- Flexible blocking wires and pins
Adjust needle size if necessary to obtain correct gauge.
What is the gauge?
24 sts / 45 rows = 4 in / 10 cm in stockinette stitch, measured after blocking.
What are the finished dimensions?
The finished shawlette has a wingspan of 104 cm (41 in) and a depth at centre of 35.5 cm (14 in).
Does one skein include everything I need?
Yes! One 100g skein of Trifecta Fingering has everything you need to knit the shawlette. Unlike our sock yarn, this skein doesn't need to be divided, just wind it into a cake and cast on.
What yarn base is included?
We're using our Trifecta Fingering base for this kit: 80% superwash Merino wool, 20% nylon; 370 yd / 339 m per 100g skein. It's soft, versatile, and takes colour beautifully.
When will the yarn ship?
Kits will ship by mid-July, so you'll have everything in hand before our August 1 cast-on.
Please note: if you add anything else to your order, it will all ship together.
How do I get the pattern?
Your kit includes a Ravelry download code. Instructions for redeeming your code are included in the package.
What if I don't use Ravelry?
No problem! You can download the pattern directly using your code without participating in the forum. The KAL community is hosted on Ravelry, but joining is completely optional.
What is the knit-along like?
The KAL is hosted in our Ravelry forum. It's relaxed, friendly, and totally optional. The KAL officially runs August 1–31, but you can join at any time. Knit at your own pace, share your progress when you feel like it, and don't worry if life gets busy. Even casting on during the month is worth celebrating.
Do I need a Ravelry account to participate in the KAL?
Yes, the forum is hosted on Ravelry, so you'll need a free account to join the conversation. But if Ravelry isn't your thing, you're still warmly welcome to knit along on your own.
Can I add extra skeins?
Yes! If you'd like to stash your favourite colourway or gift one to a friend, you can add extra skeins to your order. Extra skeins are available to KAL members only. You'll find the link on the product page.
Can I buy the yarn and pattern separately?
Not at this time. The yarn and pattern are exclusive to the Summer KAL and are only available as a kit until next summer.
Why? Because it's the simplest and fairest way for us (Catherine and Andrea) to collaborate. We share the work of creating the KAL (designing, dyeing, testing, photography, and support) so offering the kit as a whole helps us share the rewards equally too.
When do signups close?
Signups close June 24 at midnight, so we have enough time to dye, pack, and ship everything on schedule. Sign up here.
Still have questions?
Get in touch — we're always happy to help.