Pantone 2016: Colors of the Year

As they say, what’s old is new again — and as you can see from Pantone’s 2016 color picks, 1980’s pastels are back! Next year we’re graced by the color Gods with not one, but two colors of the year: Rose Quartz and Serenity. Both picks are calming and sweet (reminiscent of traditional baby colors?) shades compared to their bold and/or deep toned, color siblings (Emerald, Tangerine, and Marsala) from the past few years.For some they’ll resonate as serene and elegant; for others perhaps quite the opposite. Here, however is what Pantone has to say about their intention behind these choices:

“As consumers seek mindfulness and well-being as an antidote to modern day stresses, welcoming colors that psychologically fulfill our yearning for reassurance and security are becoming more prominent. Joined together, Rose Quartz and Serenity demonstrate an inherent balance between a warmer embracing rose tone and the cooler tranquil blue, reflecting connection and wellness as well as a soothing sense of order and peace.

What do you think? Do these colors evoke nirvana or nursery? Are you in for incorporating them into your knitting and crochet? Here are some projects to inspire your choice:

1. Over Easy Cowl Neck
2. New and Now Granny Cowl
3. Stagger Stitch Cowl
4. “Pink Ribbon” Shawl
5. Herringbone Bonnet
6. Cozy Posie Dress
7. Knit Baby Hat






Have your own pattern in mind? Here are some yarn options in these great shades: