Welcome to my stop on the Blue Sky Alpacas EXTRA blog tour! The lovely people at Blue Sky Alpacas recently sent me a hank of their brand new EXTRA yarn along with a pattern from their Destination Collection. Check out the video below to see why this new yarn and pattern collection are so special.

EXTRA is a lovely and lush mix of 55% baby alpaca and 45% fine merino wool. It comes in a generously sized hank (218 yards) and is available in 14 colors. It's a versatile Aran weight that is light and lofty and incredibly soft. You will love knitting with this yarn – I promise.

The Destination Collection is inspired by hometowns, far-away places and everywhere in between. The accessories in this collections were created by top Blue Sky Alpacas designers from all over the world.

The gorgeous pattern I have been working on is the Fractal Cowl by Kirsten Johnstone. Each pattern in the Destination Collection has been designed exclusively for EXTRA and each pattern has a story. And I have to say, Blue Sky has done a wonderful job with the design and packaging of their printed patterns! I just love how this folds out into a full page of photos and pattern instructions with a full-sized chart on the back, and then folds right back up into a sturdy little envelope that's easy to throw into your bag.

The construction of this cowl is genius. The unique cabled design is inspired by the cutting-edge architecture of Australia, where designer Kirsten is from. Every round is different, and it's knitted (with ease) in stockinette. Then you flip it inside-out to see the geometric design. Brilliant! I've just started working on mine, but it's already been a super enjoyable knit.

GIVEAWAY!

THE PRIZE

A gorgeous skein of Blue Sky Alpaca EXTRA yarn in the 'Lake Ice' colorway
The Fractal Cowl pattern by Kirsten Johnstone
An adorable Pretty Cheep Project Bag

THE RULES

Giveaway is open to U.S. residents only
Giveaway is open until Saturday, October 25, 2014 at 11:30 PM CST.
Comments must include a valid email address or Ravelry ID so I can contact you if you are the winner.
Winner will be chosen via random number generator and will be contacted within 48 hours after giveaway ends.

HOW TO ENTER

Comment below with your favorite Blue Sky Alpaca EXTRA colorway (even though I know you love them all.)
Like Blue Sky Alpacas on Facebook or follow them on Instagram. (@blueskyalpacas)