February 26, 2017

Transforming the Colors of the Wild into Cozy Creations 🏔️

Life out here in the Rocky Mountains is wild. Literally. Some days, I’m watching deer stroll past my window like they own the place. Other days, I’m rescuing my knitting from a particularly bold gust of wind. No matter what the day brings, one thing stays the same: wherever I go, yarn is never far behind. My knitting inspiration comes from all the nature around me.

I love taking pictures of mountains, forests, and cozy little moments. If you look closely, you’ll probably notice a trend. There’s often a ball of yarn or a half-finished project lurking in the shot. That’s not a coincidence. That’s just me, living my life, chasing daylight to get the perfect shot, and occasionally “shooting” coyotes. With a camera, of course. Knitting inspiration can come from anywhere, even wildlife. No need to alert the game warden. 📸

A coyote behind a massive tree stump in the Colorado pinon forest. Photo by Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Why PurlsAndPixels is Packed with Pretty Nature Photos

Knitting inspiration from nature is everywhere, when you know where to look. The rich reds of autumn leaves, the deep blues of a twilight sky, and the soft neutrals of river stones all create the perfect yarn color inspiration from nature. Every time I step outside, I see textures and hues that practically beg to be turned into a new project. A misty morning might call for a delicate lace shawl, while the rugged bark of an old pine tree whispers, “You need more cozy cables in your life.” Living in the mountains, knitting is not just a hobby; it is a cozy knitting lifestyle, where the rhythm of the needles matches the quiet pace of nature. This mountain knitting aesthetic finds its way into everything I create, blending the beauty of the outdoors with the comfort of handmade warmth. Whether it is the soft tones of fresh snowfall or the earthy richness of autumn, knitting inspired by nature is always waiting right outside my door, tempting me to cast on just one more project.

1. Color Inspiration is Everywhere

The vibrant stripes on a canyon wall? Perfect for a chunky scarf. The soft blues of a misty morning? That’s a cozy pair of mittens waiting to happen. Nature is basically a giant, untamed yarn store, and I take full advantage of it. If you are looking for knitting inspiration from nature, step outside and see what colors you can find.

Colorado canyon at Mesa Verde National Park. Photo by Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

2. Texture, Texture, Texture

Knitting is all about feel. Soft wools, bumpy cables, smooth stitches. When I see the rough bark of an aspen tree or the soft fluff of a baby bunny’s fur, I can’t help but think, this would make a fantastic sweater. The natural textures found in the woods offer endless knitting inspiration.

Fluffy bunny rabbit in the forest meadow. Colorado wildlife photo by Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

3. It’s All About the Cozy Life

I don’t just knit. I live the whole cozy, slow-living, tea-sipping, blanket-wrapped experience. Taking these photos lets me freeze those moments. The ones where the fire is crackling, my needles are clicking, and everything feels just right. Since I can’t invite the whole internet into my cabin for cocoa, this is the next best thing.

Photos © Liz Chandler of PurlsAndPixels. All photos here are my own, taken by me. Please enjoy, but do not reproduce them for any commercial purpose without my permission. Email purlsandpixels@gmail.com for inquiries about specific images.