FOR THE COLOUR-BLOCK THROW: Use 8 x 50g balls of Jaeger Extra Fine Merino each in off-white, light grey and charcoal, and 5 x 50g balls Jaeger Persia in mid grey, pair 4mm, and 41/2 mm needles, large sewing needle and pins
METHOD FOR COLOUR-BLOCK THROW: THE MERINO
SQUARES: Using 4mm needles and off-white Merino, cast on 176 stitches and work 6cm garter stitch (knit every row). Then begin with a right-side row as follows:
Next row (right side): knit to end of row. Next row: knit 13, purl to last 13 stitches, knit 13. Keep repeating last 2 rows (so that 13 stitches at beginning and end of row are garter stitch and centre 150 stitches are stocking stitch) until work measures 74cm from cast-on edge. Now work 6cm garter stitch. Cast off.
above left: Three knitted blocks in extra-fine merino wool are highlighted by the fourth block in a fuzzy bouclé. The joined blocks form a throw that measures 160cm (63in) square.
above right: The integral edge of garter stitch provides a precision border to each square.
opposite: Relaxed and easy elegance, a simple throw to cover bed, chair or couch in the contemporary home.
Work 2 more squares in exactly the same way, but using light grey for one and charcoal for the other.
THE PERSIA SQUARE: Using 41/2mm needles and mid-grey Persia, cast on 128 stitches and work 6cm garter stitch. Then begin with a right-side row as follows:
Next row (right side): knit to end of row. Next row: knit 9, purl to last 9 stitches, knit 9. Keep repeating last 2 rows (so that 9 stitches at beginning and end of row are garter stitch and centre 110 stitches are stocking stitch) until work measures 74cm from cast- on edge. Now work 6cm garter stitch. Cast off.
FINISHING: Lay pieces flat and gently steam into shape. Pin the 4 squares together, making sure that all the edges match. Sew all seams using a fine running stitch.