OhSewCrafty Blog

I really enjoyed knitting this.  It was a bit suspenseful, waiting to see if my gauge changes and pattern mods (I had to rewrite a few things to account for my row gauge), would work out ok in the end.  The yarn substitution was made for two reasons: I was between sizes, and I thought the original yarn was outrageously expensive- I am so not willing to spend $70+ on yarn for a short sleeved cotton sweater.  The knitting was fun, it was fast with mostly stockinette, but with some cool details to keep things interesting.  I did have some problems with the crochet finishing- my crochet stitches were just too tight to do multiple rows of slip stitch, and it seemed unnecessary; as the knitted fabric had plenty of structure due to cotton/model blend.  I improvised, and eventually seamed the fronts together under the button loops; I’m never going to wear this open anyway.

Unfortunately the project languished for weeks while I tried to locate buttons.  I had purchased some at G Street, and asked them to call me when they got more in stock.  That didn’t happen… eventually I located the buttons at an online store. I think the buttons are perfect; peachy pearlized shank buttons.   Then it got ridiculously hot and there was no way I would wear this, but the heat has finally broken, thankfully!  

I like this project for all the tailoring details (hem, darts, stand up collar), and the fact that it’s nice for work.  I adore the yarn, too- soft with a subtle sheen and easy to knit with, not splitty.  I love the fit, and I think the yarn substitution is an unqualified success.  This is the third garment I’ve knit with Valley Yarns (from Webs) and I have yet to be disappointed.  I look forward to trying more in the future!