This design was happily released for Asylum Fibers at Vogue Knitting Live 2019.

No Return
By Corrado Lark

The Needs:

-US 4 32-40” circular needle.
4 stitch markers (at least 1 a clip on) and a darning needle.
-Gauge: 25 stitches and 19 rows per 4”, blocked.
-Final Measurements: 94” length and 20” at its widest.
-I used Asylum Fibers Madhouse Base 100% Superwash Merino. 4 skeins (436 yds/100g) and 3 minis (87yds/20g).

Color A: A Brighter, lighter tonal. I used “Keep Cool”, a mint tonal. (436yds/100g)
Color B: A Darker, deeper color in the same family as Color A. I used “Worn Out”, a blue-jean navy tonal. (436yds/100g)
Color C: A Brighter, lighter tonal or speckles yarn contrasting with Color A. I used “Door Hinge”, a neon orange tonal. (327yrds/75g)
Color D: A Darker, deeper color that pairs well with Color B, but is in a similar tone with C. I used “Tough Stuff”, a brownish maroon and burgundy tonal. My favorite, thanks Stephanie! (436yds/100g)
Color E: A lighter gray/white or cream tonal or speckle. I used “Straightjacket”, a white with gray speckled yarn. (87yds/20g)
Color F: A darker gray/black or brown tonal or speckle. I used “Trepidation”, a dark gray tonal. (87yds/20g)
Color G: A pop of color. Make it unexpected, something signature to you. I used “Shocked”, a neon yellow. (40yds/10g)

Stitches/Techniques Used:

-Garter stitch flat.
-Short rows.
-Stripes.

The Backstory:

This design is a declaration. I’ve proudly come a long way in my life, and I’m about to turn 30. So far, I’ve succeeded in becoming a stage actor, which is what I’d always wanted from a young age. And now, I’m gratefully releasing a shawl design at Vogue Knitting Live!

This design comes from a different place than most of my patterns. On my last theatre tour, I only survived with a few things by my side. A suitcase full of clothes and a duffle bag stuffed to the brim with yarn.

On that tour, my dreams were crushed by a sustained injury. I was also wounded in many ways from the day-to-day meanness and pain. Bullied by my cast mates and the company I worked for, I was primarily alone traveling around the country.

This path led me to the concept for “No Return”, which originally comes from the song, “Past the Point of No Return” in ‘The Phantom of the Opera’. I’d always dreamt one day that I’d play the Phantom on Broadway. And if I’m being honest, I still do. Since Stephanie (the dyer behind Asylum Fibers) is a classically trained opera singer, the inspiration clicked immediately.

Knitting the shawl felt like a release of emotional suffering that I’d held on to for a year. Like I could finally let go of this secret I’d tried so hard to hide.

The night before the photoshoot for the design, I “yarn bombed” the mask used in some of the pictures. In creating it, I disgraced the thing I’d held for so long in such esteem. Through these images I’m trying unmask the dark truth of some of the living situations on tours and help save people’s lives. This project has helped me come forth with my story of survival in the hopes that I can save others who are on or have been through similar situations.

All in all, I’m honored to have found a community of knitters and friends that encourage my chosen path in life. Whatever road I decide to venture down next, I know I’m safe with yarn and needles at my side. A special thanks to all of my dear knitting friends and family for giving me so much joy and helping elevate my consciousness every day. Your message of hope in creation is alive and well.