OhSewCrafty Blog

• Pattern: Charles D. Gandy / Interweave Winter 2012
• Yarn: Valley Yarn Superwash DK (Merino), #15 “blue mist”, 330 yds
• Size/Needles/Gauge: As written with a few mods, 5.5 spi on US 5’s
• Time to knit: ~3 weeks in January 2013 (mostly working on the hat)

I always cast on a hat New Years Day, and the color I had stashed for this project goes well with the scarf I received for Xmas. Also, the pattern reminded me of cathedrals, and those have been on my mind since I’m creating an itinerary for a trip to England this spring.

So, I started with the hat, which employs a great, simple method for provisional cast on.  The knitting took a while due to the whole thing essentially being a twisted rib.  Then, when I finished, it didn’t fit quite right.  I realized that the pattern as written, does not include enough rounds to get you to the necessary height at the specified gauge.  So I ripped back and did an extra 5 rounds before starting the decreases.  It fits now, but only just, and I have a small head.    The mittens were much easier, being mostly reverse stockinette.  My only real problem was with ladders between the dpns.  I always use dpns and know how to avoid ladders, but nothing worked with this project.  After finishing, I evened it out by gentley manipulating the stitches with the tip of my needle.  Also, I had to do an additional 4 rounds before starting the top-of-hand decreases.  I don’t have huge hands, so I’d definitely advise to try on and adjust while in progress.

The yarn is Valley Superwash DK, an extremely soft and luxurious merino, four ply construction with a nice plump, round twist.  I’ve used it before, which is basically an endorsement, especially considering I’m not even that fond of superwash.   That old sweater has been worn a ton and experienced very little pilling, impressive for such a soft yarn.

I’m very happy with my new set- it’s lightweight yet warm, and coordinates perfectly with my scarf.  Weexperienced a cold snap recently, with highs in the low 20’s F, so I can definitely use a few new winter accessories!