OhSewCrafty Blog

• Pattern: Broderie, by Connie Chang Chinchio, Twist Collective Winter 2008
• Yarn: Knitpicks Shine Sport (cotton/modal), 8.75 balls
• Needles/Size: 34″ (0 ease), gauge= 6 spi on US 4 needles
• Time to knit: 2.5 weeks in August/September 2008

Here’s my latest for the SKC’s 3rd quarter knitalong, and I love it!  The intricate stitch work and subtle silvery color feels regal and sophisticated.  The yarn is soft and silky against the skin.  The knitting was fast, the pattern fun.

Though I said the knitting was fast, I wouldn’t classify this as a quick knit necessarily.  The pattern was addictive and I couldn’t put it down; it’s well written and error-free.  I changed the proportions a bit, adding 1/2″ above the waist to ensure that the lace band would sit below the bust.  I took 1.5″ off the bottom to compensate and also shorten the length.  To avoid a rolling edge, I finished the bottom with 3 rows of seed stitch and BO kwise on the wrong side with one size larger needle.  I made the sleeves elbow length, both to accommodate my yardage (I had only 990 yds), and to maintain the style of what I feel is very much a summer sweater.  The sleeves are 8″ long and begun with 3 rows of seed stitch, to echo the hem.  The only part of the pattern I’m not totally thrilled with is the back neck which is formed by extending the lace and stretching it to fit before you seam.  I stretched it to the max and it still feels a bit rumpled back there, though greatly improved with blocking.  In hindsight, I’d do a wider back shoulder and end the lace at the shoulder seam.  This is relatively minor, however, and I’m not ripping!

I thought the cotton/modal blend yarn would be a good sub for the cotton/bamboo blend in the original.  I used Shine Sport years ago and loved it, but my taste in yarn has certainly evolved since then.  Fortunately, I still like the yarn.  It’s soft and silky, doesn’t hurt my hands when I knit, and knits up with a sheen and glorious lightweight drape.  Sportweight garments are flattering and Shine Sport is a good summer standby.  The color, Silver Sage, is a slightly green silver- fairly neutral and this should get plenty of play in the wardrobe.  I wanted the lace band to close evenly, so I used three sets of hooks and eyes.  The metal clasp, from Cheringon Metalcraft,is mainly decorative.

To sum up, I’m quite happy with my new sweater.  Ms. Chinchio remains my fave designer.  And, I credit the SKC for the inspiration.  I bought the pattern months ago, but was in no hurry to cast on until I saw several beautiful finished sweaters on the board.