The strap line for Berry Colorful Yarnings is "Where color plays" and that handily sums up everything I love about Michelle's attitude to colour and self striping yarn.

Berry Colorful Yarnings - where colour really does play

I was first introduced to the USA-based indie dyer through the wonderful Golden Skein yarn club. Three different indie dyers were asked to produce an exclusive colourway based on a given photo - for this particular collection it was a stunning Peacock Butterfly - and each dyer came up with strikingly different interpretations.

Michelle's choice was for a really bold black and red self stripe which was was initially a surprise but as I unwound the skein and started to work with it I realised just how much subtle shading there was within each band of colour. The tones in the red and black/grey bands made for really entertaining knitting and my Peacocks Revenge socks simply flew off the needles. I chose plain stocking stitch socks for these (toe-up, obviously) to let the beauty of the stripes shine through.

Since then, I have followed Michelle's work with great interest and love seeing her regular shop updates - there is always something bright and colourful to catch the eye and tempt you. Obviously I am in the UK and thus can fall prey to customs charges but I was so smitten by her exclusive Halloween theme last year that I couldn't resist. And even having my package held to ransom by UK customs for two weeks couldn't dim my joy at the fun package that awaited me.

If you are a fan of bright, fun , clear colours do go and check out Michelle's website - just don't say you weren't warned.