The Soap Bubble sweater is comng along really well! This is the left front. My yarn sub is working out great (I love the Lion Brand bamboo cotton, highly recommended) although my row gauge is ever so slightly off. I am trying to compensate for this – it’s rare that I run into row gauge issues since my row gauge is inevitably 7 rows/in (as it is here) but for once the pattern calls for a slightly larger row gauge. It will work out I’m sure. It would probably give a neater edge on the garter stitch to slip the first stitch, but I can’t be bothered. I am using a smaller needle on the purl rows here, and I think it’s really helping out my tension. I can’t wait for this to be finished – it’s going to be so lovely and springy!
Kim Hargreaves has released her Spring/Summer book “Breeze” today. If you read my blog you are well aware of how I love her designs, and this is no exception! My favorites are below.
It’s wonderful when you find a knitwear designer who really exemplifies your own personal aesthetic. For many people I know that designer is Norah Gaughan, but I find her designs (while undeniably gorgeous) too out there from my style. There are others I love, but Kim Hargreaves is always from number one! One of the things I love about Kim’s designs is the way she can translate current trends into something that is still classic and flattering. I think the first two sweaters above are great examples of that. I love both the boyfriend style cardigans and the drapey cardigans that have abounded in stores lately, but I was worried about looking too “juniors dept,” you know? I trust Kim’s design aesthetic, and that neither of these sweaters (which I plan to make) will make me look like I’m trying too hard. She has also designed the only versions of the slouchy hat trend that I can wear, so I’m planning to make both the hats above (the green is crochet and is love, the other is knitted.) There are several designs from her previous collections such as Blithe (2nd from last.) I really wanted to make this when it came out, and now I think I shall (out of some lovely 4-ply cotton I have stashed.) I seriously want to make nearly everything in this collection. There aren’t too many 4-ply designs in this one, so I’ll have a chance – I can’t wait to get my copy (you know I ordered one, right? Even though it costs more to order from the UK?)
Green apples - Stitchywitch Creates 