Swap Update

Jacket - Eyelet Cardigan:

Well, I have one sleeve done. I wouldn't normally start with a sleeve for a knit, but the pattern gives gauge only in pattern (rather than stocking stitch). Bah Humbug! I'm on the back now.

On the fabric front, I've sorta, kinda finalised my choices.

Bottoms:


Brown tencel and Olive cotton/lycra twill

Dresses:


From left to right, my patterns are: Butterick 5029, Vogue 2960 and Vogue 8379.

Tops:

Here's where I have too much choice. I'm moving towards (from left to right) the brown floral print, the green/tan geometric voile, the vanilla tencel and, uhm, ....... I did order some fuschia rayonl/lycra from Gorgeous Things, and if it falls in the color parameters, I'll use for an extra pop of color. Given I spend most days in reds, this palette is a little demure for me.

VK Cabled Tank

Vogue Knitting Spr/Sum '07 - Cabled Tank


The front is stocking stitch with two cables running vertically - I made these mirror images, unlike in the pattern.

The back is a 4x4 rib. No, I don't have back chub at my waist. And sorry, about the dress sleeves poking out.

I used about 4 balls of Rowan Summer Tweed in Berry. It's the oddest yarn I've handled so far - it feels mostly like paper ribbon to knit, but the fabric itself is very comfortable and cool in our 80 degree weather. It's not as fitted as it's supposed to be - the instructions have you knit a size with considerable negative ease. My bust is 43" and the top has a finished measurement of 38", but it doesn't feel at all tight.

This is my first knitted item of clothing for myself in a very long time. So, I'm ridiculously proud. I've now got the Eyelet Cardigan on the needles, and Sahara in gold yarn. Both should fit in with my SWAP.

SWAP Summer 2007

Patternreview has started its summer SWAP competition. I usually have little follow through with the concept of a SWAP - I like to be able to move around. Also, I'm losing weight regularly, so I'm not invested in making a keeper wardrobe. I need elastic waists and easily adjusted clothes. And, I don't want to use my more precious fabric.

It's just a lot of fun to be part of the group endeavour. Realistically, I'll probably get 1/3 done. But I've found even a mini SWAP can have a lot of impact in my wardrobe.

Maybe if I post regularly on the SWAP thread, I'll be more committed.

Btw, my jacket is the Eyelet Cardigan, a pattern from Blue Sky Alpacas. It's small enough that I'm optimistic about finishing it.

The Golden Compass

For those of you in love with the books, go find your daemon. Here's mine: