Behind The Picnic Collection: Five Details You Might Have Missed
Caitlin McCrackenShare
The Picnic Collection has arrived!
Every collection has a story, but sometimes it is the smallest details that say the most.
From the colours I chose to the names of each piece, every decision in The Picnic Collection was made with intention. Here are 5 details you may not have noticed:
1. Every piece is named after a picnic.
In previous collections, I have named my pieces to literally describe their defining features: The Bell Sweater, The Cable Sweater. However, this time I wanted the collection to feel like a part of a picnic.
The Blanket Top, Basket Vest, Hamper Bag and Bottle Sling are all inspired by the objects needed for a picnic. They’re everyday items that instantly bring to mind sunny afternoons, and together they tell the story of the collection before you even see the designs.
I also loved adding a little “Best enjoyed with…” note to each piece. It felt like a small invitation to imagine where it might accompany you next.
2. The colours tell their own story
Red and white gingham is often associated with picnics, but I wanted to create the modern picnic colour palette, so I settled on teal, cream and black.
Teal is a calming colour that reminds me of the comfort when enjoying the simple pleasure of sharing a picnic with loved ones.
Cream is inspired by linen blankets, fresh bread and natural fibres.
Black grounds the collection, making each piece timeless and easy to style long after summer has passed.
Rather than chasing a novelty colour scheme like red and white, I wanted to create a palette that would feel just as wearable in years to come.
3. Summer knitwear starts with the yarn
One of the biggest misconceptions about knitwear is that it is only for winter. The reality is that knitwear can be designed for the sun when choosing the correct yarn and knitted structures.
For The Picnic Collection, I chose a blend of merino, cashmere and silk to create lightweight garments that feel soft, breathable and comfortable throughout the day.
The Basket Vest has a ladder-knit structure, which allows the knit to be more airy and ideal for layering without adding more heat.
As always, I responsibly source my yarn from a Woolmark Certified company in Donegal as part of my commitment to sustainability.
4. Every piece is designed to be worn
When I sketch out a new design, I always consider if I would actually wear it. I couldn't imagine myself making pieces that I wouldn’t even reach for.
I want my knitwear to be worn often, rather than sitting in the wardrobe waiting for a special occasion. That’s why my designs have a relaxed silhouette, layers are lightweight, and the accessories are practical enough to become part of everyday life.
I think the best clothes are the ones you don’t have to think twice about wearing.
5. The collection is about more than picnics
Although the inspiration came from picnics from my childhood, the collection isn't really about eating outdoors.
It's more about connection with loved ones; taking time to appreciate the here and now; and touching the grass!
These ordinary moments inspired every stitch, and I hope that these pieces will become memories that you will look back on years from now.
Thank you
Designing The Picnic Collection has been such a joy, and sharing the process with you has made it even more special. I loved collaborating with my photographer Brandy Zhu, who helped me create the picnic of my dreams!
Thank you for following along, reading my blogs, opening my newsletter and supporting handmade knitwear.
I can’t wait to see where the collection goes next and, more importantly, where you take it.
Happy woolgathering,
Caitlin