Spring is Springing. Part 1: Cowell Beach Beret
February 13, 2013 § 4 Comments
Buy The Cowell Beach Beret Knitting Pattern for $4.00 US
I do believe that that silly old groundhog was right this year. Yesterday I woke up and Ramon and the windows in the kitchen open. Light was pouring in and the birds were chirping. Holy cow, it is already spring. Then, I stepped outside to put my basil plant on the table for some of this lovely weather, and boom, 45°F.
Okay, so it’s not quite spring yet, but I do tell you, Spring is Springing out there!
Back when I created Cowl Beach, I also had in mind a Beret. Well I started it last fall using my final skein of Spud and Chloe Sweater in Beluga, the same yarn as the cowl. And then it accidentally fell off of my radar. until January. I only had the decreasing left, which was quickly completed. Originally, my goal was to have this published on February 1st, or 12 days ago. Alas, I just couldn’t fit all of this in. Mommy-time came first. I was able to get three of my 7 patterns published by that date, and then the gloom of cold of a few rainy days and February weather stopped me from from staying very long in Motivation-Town.
I finished the hat on the eve of January 30th. It looked like it would be in time for my deadline. I updated my pattern with my final notes, but I still had that darn tutorial to do for how to pick up the stitches from the horizontal, ribbed, overlapped brim. I didn’t want to just explain how to do it. Often, instructions can be confusing. I am a visual person, and like to have things explained both ways when I come across something now. Right after finishing the hat I threw it in my washing tub, and then pulled it over a plate, and into the oven it went.
Wait. What?
Yes, the oven. I set the oven to just over 130°F to dry some of my knitwear after washing. First of all, I ABSOLUTELY DO NOT RECOMMEND ANYONE ELSE DOING THIS, OR CONDONE IT IN ANY WAY! Secondly, with the move going on, I really just don’t have anywhere else to block my work. Third. I was on a time crunch, and with no sun out, and short days wool takes FOREVER to dry. The dry heat of the oven on super low helps me speed things up a bit. I keep a super accurate thermometer going at all times to make sure that I don’t put anyone in any danger, but again, let me stress, Kids, DON’T do this!
The next morning the hat still had quite a bit left to dry. With the plate in there, not all of the moisture could escape and evaporate, so I flipped it over, and decided to revel for a moment at how proud I felt about having so little yarn left. It is no secret that I like to try to use my materials to their fullest potential. I am VERY happy that I finished this hat with only one skein of Spud and Chloe Sweater, and had just a tiny amount left! I put it next to this lego for a size comparison.
Okay, it was really a little more than that. That is really a Mega Block. But still, that is very little left, and something to be proud of.
Please note the the strawberries on the Little Buckaroo’s face. Strawberries are his favorite.
After publishing my Twenty for Five Pullover, Levieva Sweater, and Carried Away Cowl I ran out of steam.
Then, this week started out on a truly great note!
On Monday, we just had the most fabulous day ever. Ramon stayed home from the new house remodel for the first time in two and a half months. He took the baby and I over to Santa Cruz for breakfast, and to enjoy the beautiful day. I was hoping to get some pictures of this hat then, but it was so bright, and so sunny picture taking was pretty much impossible.
Please note the crashing wave on the rocks in front of Ramon and the Little Buckaroo’s baby hand holding the stroller.
We went for a walk past beautiful Cowl Beach, and up past the light-house. The waves were huge, and there, amongst the seagulls and surfers I found my motivation again.
Perhaps it was from having a day off from the usual routine. Perhaps it was having Ramon home, and knowing that I could take “the long shower” without worrying about Little Screamy-Pants. Whatever it was when we got back I was able to get to work, and now we have Part 1 of Spring is Springing, at long last my new Cowell Beach Beret Knitting Pattern.
As a tribute to one of my favorite places, I have created a cowl named Cowl Beach, with continuous crashing waves of its own. As a companion piece, I have created this beret, which uses exactly 1 skein of Spud & Chloe Sweater. With the unusual horizontal ribbing, I have included a tutorial for how to integrate the finished ribbing with the beginning of the rest of the beret with both written instructions and pictures. Also included, is the same tutorial that I diligently developed for Cowl Beach (the Cowl), showing how to create the waves seamlessly in the round. A feat which I worked very hard to figure out and accomplish and feel very proud of.
Carried Away Cowl, the Whole Story. A Free Knitting Pattern
February 4, 2013 § 1 Comment
This pattern is available for free on my portfolio website, click here.
When I went into the stash to dig out the yarn to finish my Levieva Dropped Sleeve Raglan Pullover I stumbled upon my two single hanks of Plymouth Baby Alpaca Grande, one each in Light Blue and Stone blue, and I admit, I got a little Carried Away. I stopped what I was doing, and made this cowl immediately. I know, I know. I have a policy of only one knitting project at once. By my mother is always telling me to use bigger needles, and bigger wool (yes, I know that this is alpaca, oh sumptuous, snuggly alpaca) and maybe I needed a break from trying to get all of my projects done by my self-imposed deadline. However, then I guess, this became a project all on its own now, didn’t it.
I bought this yarn two years ago, to make the exact cowl you see now. Only thing was, my knitting skill wasn’t quite up to par. Brioche ribbing? I tried, and tried again, but at the time, only failure lay before me. Now, looking back, it is so easy, so simple. This cowl flew off my needles, and I made it in an afternoon. I always find it so satisfying to finish a project so quickly, especially when it 1. comes out the way that I imagined 2. is still fashionable, and didn’t inherit any “craftiness” in the short project process, and 3. When I have used my beautiful materials to the fullest. As I started this project, after I did my quick gauge swatch, I decided that I wanted a total of 11 stripes, instead of 9. However, by stripe 5 I could see that my lighter blue Baby Alpaca Grande might not stretch into an 11th row. In fact, I was worried that I wouldn’t even have enough for 9. I really wanted the symmetry of an uneven number of stripes. I felt it would be more “finished.” I’d been thinking of this cowl for two years, and now that I wasn’t sure I had enough yarn I thought all might be ruined.
But hast doesn’t always make waste. When I did m gauge swatch I didn’t measure the height accurately enough, and found that after 9 stripes my cowl was gloriously tall enough. In fact, after 9 stripes I felt that 10 or 11 stripes was actually going to be way too much. Good thing I was running out of yarn.
After completing the bind-off row, I looked down and realized that I had made it to the end, in one afternoon, and with, literally, 2 yards to spare. I cannot express enough how much I love to maximize my materials. 2 yards! Oh lucky me.
This yarn is so soft, snugly, warm, luxurious. I cannot say enough great things about it. Clearly I feel very fondly of it, as my Flynnie Wide Weave Raglan Pullover is also crafted of this same beautiful two-ply.
I have also added a tutorial for the brioche rib, which is linked both here, and in the pattern on my portfolio site.
Please enjoy!
©2013 Julie LeFrancois. All Rights Reserved. Please respect copyright law and Do Not Reproduce in any form. Duplication & distribution of this pattern in any form without express permission of the author is a violation of copyright law: You may not make multiple copies of this pattern, reformat it for commercial use or resale, or sell items made from this pattern. Your respect for copyright law allows me to keep bringing you new and interesting designs. Write with feedback or errata at: projecthallway AT gmail.com.
Cowl Beach, An Oversized Cowl, Inspired By The Soupy Fog And Crashing Waves Of Cowell Beach In Santa Cruz
November 20, 2012 § 3 Comments
The pattern is for sale for $4.00 (USD) on Ravelry.com
The pattern is also for sale for $4.20 (USD) on Etsy.com
Believe it or not, developing this pattern took the better part of a year. I started on it when I was pregnant, and in the “no-knit-zone” meaning that every time I would sit down to knit, I would feel sick, give up, and start watching something like the Vampire Diaries to otherwise keep myself entertained. Inspired by one of my favorite places, I started off with the basic texture, which resembles the crashing waves of Cowell Beach in Santa Cruz, where I grew up. Ramon and I have taken, and will take many more walks along the paved 34 mile trail between the Beach Boardwalk in Santa Cruz and Natural Bridges. Cowell Beach is the beautiful beach just below the cliffs, just north of the lighthouse. When I was a teenager I tried to learn to surf here. The day after Ramon and I got married, we took a 2 mile walk, enjoying our entire stroll between bursts of rain. Just after our little Buckaroo was born, one of his first outings was also for a walk along this famed point. Born in June, we needed to escape to the cool summer fog of Santa Cruz from the blistering heat of our home. A surfer walked by us with his board and said, “Congratulations on your new baby.” I thought it was very sweet that this fellow even noticed our little sleepy-head.
The basic texture was a little tricky to learn. I started off with two repeating rows, but all of the “waves” came out stacked one directly on top of the next. The fabric felt like it had holes, and it didn’t resemble the crashing waves which inspired me. So next I figured out how to stack the waves, to make them crashing. Countless gauge swatches.
Once I figured that out, then I had to find just the right yarn for the project. It turns out that the yarn that I thought was perfect, wasn’t. I started this project 4 times with my first yarn choice, and even made it through 206 yards of it before realizing that it just didn’t feel right. Months passed, and then I found the perfect color and the perfect weight, Spud & Chloë Sweater in Beluga, a beautiful silvery grey. After acquiring 5 hanks (I estimated 4, but would hate to run out) I knit up the entire cowl just after the baby was born. When I was done I was happy, until I looked at the seam, or the join.
Because this cowl is worked in the round, and with a textured stitch there were big, big holes where the seam was. I knew that I couldn’t publish the pattern as it was. The seam/join haunted me, and it needed to be fixed.
It is painful to frog that much work, but as I have said to my mother many times, I have never regretted frogging something to fix it. I always learn something. I frogged the entire 4 hanks, and started over.
After a lot of trial and error, I developed my own technique for making this piece truly seamless, without any noticeable difference in the texture in the seam/join. The beauty in this pattern is not only the crashing cool grey waves, gracefully double looped around the neck, but in the seamless repetition of those waves. Finally I felt that the pattern had integrity, and was of true quality; something I can publish.
While this pattern took so long to develop it was worth all of the effort, as this is now one of my favorite pieces in my wardrobe, and it is truly a go-to. Every time I wear it I receive compliments, even more meaningful after spending so many months getting this pattern just right.
A special thank you to Blue Sky Alpacas. I love, love, love this yarn, super soft, durable, great colors, and it is unbelievably machine washable, perfect when you have a little Buckaroo, like I do.
I have included photo tutorials in my pattern for how to create the waves, and how to make the piece with an invisible seam/join.
The pattern is for sale for $4.00 (USD) on Ravelry.com
The pattern is also for sale for $4.20 (USD) on Etsy.com
©2012 Julie LeFrancois. All Rights Reserved.
Please respect copyright law and Do Not Reproduce in any form. Duplication & distribution of this pattern in any form without express permission of the author is a violation of copyright law: You may not make multiple copies of this pattern, reformat it for commercial use or resale, or sell items made from this pattern. Your respect for copyright law allows me to keep bringing you new and interesting designs. Write with feedback or errata via my contact page.
Seattle Fog Beanie Knitting Pattern
January 9, 2012 § 1 Comment
Seattle Fog: Super Soft Beanie Knitting Pattern
Buy the Seattle Fog Beanie Pattern on Ravelry.com for $2.00 US
Buy the Seattle Fog Beanie Pattern on Etsy.com for $2.20 US
At the very end of last August, Ramon and two other friends took a quick trip up to Seattle for the weekend. With glorious weather we had an absolutely amazing time exploring the city, eating delightful food, and Nicole and I even found a quaint little yarn store near the Fish Market. We ate up the oh-so-rare sunshine, and even had to slather on the sunscreen. However, on our final day there we finally experienced the famous drizzle, and saw the Seattle Fog.
I felt quite differently about this fog that the fog I was raised with in Santa Cruz, California. The fog in Seattle, while still dense seemed less dreary somehow. Honestly, I think that it was all my perception, and stemmed from my overall experience of the warm people there. Everyone talks about how Seattle has an amazing coffee culture, and I would have to agree, though not every cup we found met our super high standards. We were quite surprised. I came to the conclusion that the coffee culture isn’t as much about the perfect cup, but about taking time out of your day just for yourself. Be it for Facebook, the paper, or meeting up with friends, Seattle seems to have a happy, warm community.
This I have made this beanie as a tribute to the wonderful city, and the friendly people of Seattle. In a warm gray, with super soft yarn, using just one hank of Blue Sky Alpacas Suri Merino in Dusk, #418, this hat has supple cables that remind me of fish tails. In the brim is a twisted-rib stitch, giving a braided effect, further emphasizing the unity and friendliness of the community. I just can’t wait to go back.
Information & Specifications
Sizing
- Child (Adult) Adult Large
Finished Measurements
- 17″ (21″) 24″
- [43 cm ( 53 cm) 16 cm]
Yarn
- Blue Sky Alpacas Suri Merino (60% baby suri, 40% merino, 100g, 164 yds / 150 m): 1 (1) 2 skien #418 Dusk
Needles
- Size US 5 [3.75 mm] Circular 16″
- Size US 7 [4.5 mm]:
- Circular 16″
- 7″ or 9” DPNs
Gauge
- With size US 5 [3.75 mm] needles in Twisted 1×1 Rib Stitch:
- 26 sts and 26 rows = 4”x4”
Notions
- 1 Stitch Marker.Size
- E-4 Crochet Hook to
pull remaining Sts to Inside of Hat.
The size isn’t crucial. - Tapestry Needle, to weave in ends.
Buy the Seattle Fog Beanie Pattern on Ravelry.com for $2.00 US
Buy the Seattle Fog Beanie Pattern on Etsy.com for $2.20 US
©2012 Julie LeFrancois. All Rights Reserved.
Please respect copyright law and Do Not Reproduce in any form. Duplication & distribution of this pattern in any form without express permission of the author is a violation of copyright law: You may not make multiple copies of this pattern, reformat it for commercial use or resale, or sell items made from this pattern. Your respect for coypright law allows me to keep bringing you new and interesting designs. Write with feedback or errata via my contact page. Thank you.
Flynnie Sweater: Top Down, In-The-Round, Wide-Weave Raglan Sweater, Pullover, Tunic
October 4, 2011 § Leave a Comment
Flynnie Sweater, with a well-deserved captive audience: Top Down, In-The-Round, Wide-Weave Raglan Sweater
Buy the Flynnie Wide-Weave Sweater Pattern on Ravelry.com for $6.00 US
Buy this Flynnie Wide-Weave Sweater Pattern on Etsy.com for $6.20 US
I absolutely love knitting sweaters from the top-down, in the round. Being able to try them on at any point, and make adjustments without having to rip out an entire sleeve, or sweater back makes the sweater building process so much more enjoyable.
Utilizing this piece primarily as a tunic I find it is a wonderful addition to my wardrobe, especially on those cold days. With the super chunky yarn, and large needles this is a quick, and fashionable knit.
A few years back I made a version of this sweater and completed it from the bottom up, in panels. After finishing it I realized that knitting top-down, and in the round would provide a very clean, polished, and more sophisticated sweater. Super snugly, and delightfully colored this sweater always brightens my mood, and I hope that it does the same for you, too!
Endlessly customizable, I have written a few notes throughout the pattern to help with adjustments and fitting. It’s a good idea to write down what you changed, so you can better review if it is working for you, or match your sleeves.
I welcome any and all feedback. Please feel free to email me at projecthallway AT gmail.com with thoughts or errata.
To anyone who purchases this sweater, I hope you enjoy making this it as much as I have.
Information & Specifications
Sizing
- Size XXS (XS, S, M, L) XL
- Bust Measurment
- 28″ (30″, 32″, 36″, 38″) 42″
- 71 cm (76 cm, 81 cm, 91 cm, 96 cm) 106 cm
Yarn
- Plymouth Baby Alpaca Grande (100% Baby Alpaca, 110 yd [100 m]/100 g): #69 Watermellon or #6010 Coral, 8 (8, 8, 9, 11) 12 hanks
Or
- Misti Alpaca Chunky 2 Ply (100% Baby Alpaca, 109 yd [99.6 m]/100 g): #RJ5764 Pink Paradise, 8 (8, 8, 9, 11) 12 hanks
Or
- Blue Sky Alpacas Techno 2 Ply (100% 68% Baby Alpaca / 10% Extra Fine Merino / 22% Silk, 120 yd [109 m]/50 g): #1981 Pink Posh, 8 (8, 8, 9, 11) 12 hanks
Needles
- Size US 15 [10 mm]
- Circular 29” and/or 36”
- 7” or 9” DPNs
- Size US 101/2 [6.5 mm] Circular 24”
- Size US 8 [6.5 mm]:
- Circular 29” or 32”
- 7” or 9” DPNs
Gauge
Gauges listed equal 4×4” [10 x 10 cm].
- With size US 15 Needles in Sts St:
- 10 Sts and 12 rows
Notions
- Stitch Markers.
- Tapestry Needle.
********
The Original Flynnie Sweater: Top Down, In-The-Round, Wide-Weave Raglan Sweater
********
©2011 Julie Grantz. All Rights Reserved.
Please respect copyright law and Do Not Reproduce in any form. Duplication & distribution of this pattern in any form without express permission of the author is a violation of copyright law: You may not make multiple copies of this pattern, reformat it for commercial use or resale, or sell items made from this pattern. Your respect for copyright law allows me to keep bringing you new and interesting designs. Write with feedback or errata at: projecthallway AT gmail.com.
********
Buy the Flynnie Wide-Weave Sweater Pattern on Ravelry.com for $6.00 US
Buy this Flynnie Wide-Weave Sweater Pattern on Etsy.com for $6.20 US
Audrey Hepburn Sweater
September 18, 2011 § 2 Comments
I finished my Audrey Hepburn Sweater, Ingenue, from Custom Knits by Wendy Bernard.
And … I LOVE it. I somehow convinced Ramon to help me take a photo like the inspiration, and I must give him kudos on his photography skills and patience 
Audrey Hepburn Sweater, Breakfast at Tiffany's
Using hardy any yarn (approximately 980 yards) I flew through this project. And, as I used Northhampton in Fawn, from Webs, this entire project cost lest than $20. I must admit that I like the yarn a lot more now that it is made. I thought that it would irritate my skin with itchiness more, but it doesn’t! I have fairly sensitive skin, though, apparently less sensitive than I thought.
Modifications:
- As previously mentioned, I knit the Cast On Edge into the end of the collar to avoid sewing it once the sweater was completed.
- I kept it with the ease as specified in the pattern, but my gauge was a little short in rows. I added one extra waist decrease and on the flip-side, one extra waist increase, as well.
- I added one extra pattern repeat on the sleeve as hem
I love this project, and I would love to do it again. I actually worked my way through almost the entire body in one afternoon, and I am really enjoying my new continental knitting style skills. The sleeves took about 2 hours a piece. This sweater is an amazing addition to my wardrobe, and I have a feeling it is going to get a lot of use.
Rihanna Inspired Nautical Cropped Pullover
July 1, 2011 § 5 Comments
About a month ago I saw Rihanna perform on NBC’s Today Show. She was wearing a cute little, nautical cropped top. I loved the contrast of the bold primary blue with the deep, rich black.
I thought it would be fun to re-create the cute pullover using chunky yarn. I can see that Rihanna’s is some type of knit fabric, and is also cropped very close to the bust. For this version, it is still quite cropped, but a little more modestly. I used a plump weight yarn that is machine washable, Berroco Comfort, which makes this sweater a little more bulky than the original. The pattern is written so that it is very fitted, and it is intended to be worn in this fashion.
The bodice (front and back) parts of this pattern are written from the bottom up. The sleeves, however, are written from the top down. This isn’t intended to cause confusion, but rather to make things easier. As I feel there are a lot of options for lengths, and a lot of different types of people out there, by writing the sleeves from the top down it will be easier to alter, extend, shorten, or whatever you would like to the length of the sleeve. When you start from the bottom and work your way up, you can run into some fitting issues. I have also included FOUR versions of the sleeves: Regular and Petite sizing, as well as Regular and Petite sizing including the “Hand Mit.” The hand mit closely resembles Rihanna’s top, where the sleeve comes all of the way over the hand, and includes a thumb-hole. As I prefer the sweater to end at the wrist, I have completed my sample without the hand-mit.
This sweater is very quick and easy to knit. As Berroco Comfort comes in so many amazing colors, the color combinations possible are limitless. One could add length, or make it even more cropped, like her version. Short or 3-quarter length sleeves could be adapted from this pattern by the user. I had a lot of fun making—and now wearing—this sweater, and I hope that you do, too. This is also the same yarn that I used for the Little Joey Kangaroo Hoodie and the Striped Kangaroo Hoodie. I have really come to love this yarn, and one can find lots of great Berroco Yarn information and ideas on the Berroco Blog, too.
For the time being I have made this sweater pattern free. Generally when I release a pattern for free, even despite that my copyright that is included, I find people stealing my pattern and selling it, or selling goods made from my pattern. Upon the discovery that the copyright for this pattern has been violated, it will no longer be free, and I will make it available for sale only. Please don’t steal my pattern. It hurts everyone.
You can check this pattern on ravelry.com for yarn ideas, too
My fashion sketches, in an effort to keep practicing my drawing skills:
SIZING
Regular
XS (S, M) L
FINISHED GARMENT MEASUREMENTS
- Chest Measurement:
31″ (33″, 36″) 39″ - Length of Bodice from Shoulder Tip:
13″ (13″, 14″) 14″
YARN
- Color A, 2 (2, 2) 2 Hanks Berroco Comfort #9736 “Primary Blue”
- Color B, 2 (2, 2) 2 Hanks Berroco Comfort #9734 “Liquorice”
NEEDLES
- US 7 (4.5mm) Straight needles (or Circular based on preference) for Ribbing.
- US 7 (4.5mm) 16″ Circular Needle for Neck Ribbing.
- US 8 (5.0mm) Straight needles or Circular needles based on preference.
GAUGE
- 18 stitches and 26 rows equals 4×4″
NOTIONS
- Tapestry Needle for weaving in ends.
- 1 Stitch Marker
ABBREVIATIONS
- STS Stitches
- CO Cast On
- K Knit
- P Purl
- K2TOG TOG Knit 2 stitches together
- SSK Slip Slip Knit
- P2TOG Purl 2 Together
- KFTB Knit Front to Back
- SSP Slip Slip Purl
- PM Place Marker, Indicates beginning of round
- Pick-Up Pick Up stitches,
- BO Bind Off
- RS Right Side of garment
- WS Wrong Side of garment
BACK
Each Stripe is made up of 24 (24, 26) 26 rows. Carry the yarn that is not being used up the side, wrapping around the other yarn to secure. While it is not indicated where to switch yarn colors, remember to do it after the specified number of rows.
RIBBING
In Color A, and US 7 (4.5mm) needles CO 62(66, 74)80 sts. If using circular needle, do not join. Begin K2, P2, Rib Stitch through end of row, RS.
Work 5(5,7)7 more rows even in Rib Stitch pattern ending with a WS row.
BUST SHAPING
On RS, In Color B, with size US 8 (5.0mm) needles, begin Stockinette Stitch, K1, KFTB, K to 3 sts before end of row, KFTB, K1. Work 7 more rows even in Stockinette Stitch, ending with a WS row.
Repeat increase 3 more times.
70(74, 82)88 sts.
Work 4(4,6)6 rows even
ARMHOLE SHAPING
On RS, BO 4 stitches on the beginning of the next 2 rows.
K1, K2TOG, K to 3 sts before end of row, SSK, K1. P on WS.
P1, SSP, P to 3 sts before end of row, P2TOG, P1
Repeat this decrease 1 more time. (Should complete one full stripe.)
On RS, switch to Color A, K1, K2TOG, K to 3 sts before end of row, SSK, K1. P on WS.
P on WS.
Repeat this decrease 2 more times. 48(52, 60)66 sts **
BACK NECKLINE AND SHOULDER SHAPING
Work 18(18, 20)20 more rows even. (Should complete one full stripe.)
Switch to Color B, work 2 rows even.
K 17(17, 22)22 sts. BO 14(18, 16)22, K 17(17, 22)22. P on WS.
K1, K2TOG, K to end.
P to 3 sts before end of row, P2TOG, P1.
K1, K2TOG, K to end. P on WS.
Repeat 2(2, 3)3 more times.
K to across. BO 6(6, 8)8 sts. P 6(6, 8)8.
K to across. BO remaining 6(6, 8)8 sts. Break yarn, leaving and end to weave in.
Return to remaining 17(17, 22)22 sts. Join in yarn on neckline edge. P across on WS.
K to 3 sts before end, SSK, K1.
P1, SSP, P to end.
K to 3 sts before end, SSK, K1. P on WS.
Repeat 2(2, 3)3 more times.
K to across. On WS, BO 6(6, 8)8 sts. P remaining 6(6, 8)8 sts.
K to across. On WS, BO remaining 6(6, 8)8 sts. Break yarn, leaving and end to weave in.
FRONT
Work the Front identically to Back until **
FRONT NECKLINE AND SHOULDER SHAPING
Work 6(6, 8)8 more rows even.
Switch to Color B, work 2 rows even.
K 21(21, 26)26 sts. BO 6(10, 8)14, K 21(21, 26)26. P on WS.
K1, K2TOG, K to end.
P to 3 sts before end of row, P2TOG, P1.
Repeat 1 more times.
K1, K2TOG, K to end. P on WS.
Repeat 1(1, 2)2 more times.
K1, K2TOG, K to end. Work 3 rows even.
Repeat 1 more times.
K1, K2TOG, K to end. Work 8 rows even.
K to across. BO 6(6, 8)8 sts. P 6(6, 8)8.
K to across. BO remaining 6(6, 8)8 sts. Break yarn, leaving and end to weave in.
Return to remaining 21(21, 26)26 sts. Join in yarn on neckline edge. P across on WS.
K to 3 sts before end, SSK, K1.
P1, SSP, P to end.
Repeat 1 more times.
K to 3 sts before end, SSK, K1. P on WS.
Repeat 2(2, 3)3 more times.
K to 3 sts before end, SSK, K1. Work 3 rows even.
Repeat 1 more times.
K to 3 sts before end, SSK, K1. Work 8 rows even.
K to across. On WS, BO 6(6, 8)8 sts. P remaining 6(6, 8)8 sts.
K to across. On WS, BO remaining 6(6, 8)8 sts. Break yarn, leaving and end to weave in.
SLEEVES
Make 2 alike.
Remember, Each Stripe is made up of 24 (24, 26) 26 rows. Carry the yarn that is not being used up the side, wrapping around the other yarn to secure. Except where specifically indicated in the Sleeve Cap, remember to switch the yarn color after the specified number of rows.
SLEEVE CAP SHAPING
In Color B, with size US 8 (5.0mm) needles, CO 6(6, 6)10
Working in Stockinette Stitch, K1, KFTB, K to 3 sts before end of row, KFTB, K2.
P1, PFTB, P to 3 sts before end of row, PFTB, P2.
Repeat previous two increases 2(2, 3)3 more times. 18(18, 22)26 sts.
In Color A, K1, KFTB, K to 3 sts before end of row, KFTB, K2.
P on WS.
Repeat 2(2, 3)3 more times.
K1, KFTB, K to 3 sts before end of row, KFTB, K2. P on WS.
Work 3 rows even.
Repeat 2 more times.
K1, KFTB, K to 3 sts before end of row, KFTB, K2. P on WS.
Repeat 1 more times.
ARMHOLE SHAPING
In Color B, K1, KFTB, K to 3 sts before end of row, KFTB, K2.
P1, PFTB, P to 3 sts before end of row, PFTB, P2.
Repeat 1 more time.
C0 4 sts at the beginning of the next two rows.
50(50, 56)60 sts.
REGULAR LENGTH SLEEVE
Work 12(12, 10)10 more rows even, ending with a WS row.
On next RS row, K1, K2TOG, K to 3 sts before end of row, SSK, K1. Work 11(11,13)13 more rows even.
Repeat 9 more times.
Work 6(6, 0)0 more rows even. 30(30, 36)40 sts.
On RS, In Color B, and US 7 (4.5mm) needles K across. On WS, begin P2, K2 Rib Stitch through end of row.
Work 4(4, 6)6 more rows even.
BO all sts.
REGULAR LENGTH SLEEVE WITH HAND MIT
Work 12(12, 10)10 more rows even, ending with a WS row.
On next RS row, K1, K2TOG, K to 3 sts before end of row, SSK, K1. Work 11(11, 13)13 more rows even.
Repeat 9 more times. 30(30, 36)40 sts.
On next RS row, K1, KFTB, K to 3 sts before end of row, KFTB, K2. Work 5(5, 3)3 rows even.
Repeat 3 more times. 38(38, 44)48 sts.
Work 0(0, 2)2 rows even.
On RS, and US 7 (4.5mm) needles, begin K2, P2 Rib Stitch through end of row. Work 5(5, 7)7 more rows even.
BO all sts.
PETITE LENGTH SLEEVE
Work 10(10, 4)4 more rows even, ending with a WS row.
On next RS row, K1, K2TOG, K to 3 sts before end of row, SSK, K1. Work 9(9, 11)11 more rows even.
Repeat 9 more times.
Work 4(4, 0)0 more rows even. 30(30, 36)40 sts.
On RS, In Color A, and US 7 (4.5mm) needles K across. On WS, begin P2, K2 Rib Stitch through end of row. Work 4(4, 6)6 more rows even.
BO all sts.
PETITE LENGTH SLEEVE WITH HAND MIT
Work 8(8, 4)4 more rows even, ending with a WS row.
On next RS row, K1, K2TOG, K to 3 sts before end of row, SSK, K1. Work 9(9, 11)11 more rows even.
Repeat 9 more times. 30(30, 36)40 sts.
On next RS row, K1, KFTB, K to 3 sts before end of row, KFTB, K2.
Work 5(5, 3)3 rows even.
Repeat 3 more times. 38(38, 44)48 sts.
Work 0(0, 2)2 rows even.
On RS, and US 7 (4.5mm) needles, begin K2, P2 Rib Stitch through end of row. Work 5(5, 7)7 more rows even.
BO all sts.
BUILDING
Sew Front to Back at shoulders and sides, lining up the stripes. Sew each sleeve, then sew Sleeve into Armhole, lining up the stripes. While sewing the sleeves, if the Hand Mit directions have been followed, sew the ribbing sides together, leave an approximate 2 inch opening for the thumb, and continue sewing the sleeve together where the next contrasting stripe begins.
NECKLINE
With RS facing, Color A, and US 7 (4.5mm) 16″ circular needles, working around the back, beginning at where the shoulders are joined:
- Pick-Up 11(11, 13)13 from Back Side Neckline,
- Pick-Up 14(18, 16)22 from Back Side Neckline,
- Pick-Up 11(11, 13)13 from Back Side Neckline,
- Pick-Up 25(25, 27)27 from Front Side Neckline,
- Pick-Up 6(10, 8)14 from Back Side Neckline,
- Pick-Up 25(25, 27)27 from Front Side Neckline,
- PM, Join. 92(100, 104)116 sts.
Begin K2, P2, Rib Stitch through end of round, SM.
Work 5 more rows even.
BO all sts.
FINISHING
Using a tapestry needle weave in all ends. Block as desired, wear and Enjoy!
©2012 Julie LeFrancois. All Rights Reserved.
Please respect copyright law and Do Not Reproduce in any form. Duplication & distribution of this pattern in any form without express permission of the author is a violation of copyright law: You may not make multiple copies of this pattern, reformat it for commercial use or resale, or sell items made from this pattern. Your respect for coypright law allows me to keep bringing you new and interesting designs. Write with feedback or errata via my contact page. Thank you.
Reknitunion, and the Sweater That is Trying to Kill Me
March 25, 2011 § Leave a Comment
I don’t know what it is about Friday’s, why do I always end up feeling like crap? Ramon had pretty bad food poisoning two nights ago, which we think was caused from Salsa. Feeling nauseous all day yesterday and today, and having foul tummy issues, I think I have the same food poisoning, but in a more minor way. It was pretty much all I could do today to get this post written, and sweater finished. All that being said …
Happy to reunited with my knitting mid week, I was finally able to finish the sweater that I am titling, “The Sweater That is Trying to Kill Me,” also known as the the sweater that was the cause of the mandatory Knitcation, also known as the cover sweater from Precious by Kim Hargreaves
I was so excited about this sweater when I bought the yarn from Stitches West, from Nordic Mart. The yarn was great, and fun to work with, but the pattern was a nightmare, a disaster … I should have re-written it from the top-down before beginning.
I did make a few changes to the pattern, in order to make it even, well, wearable. The sweater is supposed to be a wide neck, and even though my gauge was dead on, the neck was so wide, it didn’t even come around or over my shoulders at all. I had to add a good three inches to it to get it to work, and 16 short rows on the side/arm pieces, which also meant going out to buy additional buttons.
In the end, I am not super excited about it. With the additions made at the neck, I feel like there are some funny looking areas, and if I had known what was going to happen—if I had been smart enough to rewrite the pattern top-down in the round—I could have avoided these small, but noticeable eyesores. I just feel like if you are going to spend THAT LONG on a sweater, you should be totally happy with it in the end.
Additionally, I have either lost weight, or did something else funny, because, as previously stated, even though my gauge was right, I feel like the sweater is overall too loose, and is a bit baggy. Boo for baggy. Not what I wanted.
Sweater still in progress, trying to figure out how much more to add:
Perhaps I tend to get sick-ish on Friday’s because my body is trying to tell me to slow down. There is just so much I want to do, and right now, I don’t feel up for any of it.
Also, a quick thanks to Ramon, for helping me with getting a sweater picture tonight. He is feeling under the weather, too. 
Taylor Swift Inspired Diamond Slouchy Beret
January 4, 2011 § 13 Comments
The pattern is for sale for $4.00 (USD) on Ravelry.com
The pattern is also for sale for $4.20 (USD) on Etsy.com
Last winter, during a family visit, my eldest sister gushed about her love for Taylor Swift. Not much of a country music fan, I knew I had heard some of her music, but didn’t know much about who she was until just recently. While watching an E! True Hollywood Story about Taylor Swift I felt a connection with both her music, as well as herself—one of the reasons why she is so popular.
I also noticed a red beret that she was wearing, during a visit to London. I loved the hat, and I now love her music, it is my guilty pleasure. So, to honor the inspiration she has provided me with, I created a knitting pattern for the hat.
Her Beret looks very slouchy, almost over-sized, so that is how I created this pattern. I have included two sizes, but if you are worried about it being too big, I recommend working the smaller size, as it is easier to stretch the ribbing. Since it is done from the bottom up, you can also work the ribbing, and test it, to see if it is going to fit well, without having to go too far into the pattern.
I originally made the pattern free, however, upon discovering that others were taking the pattern, making and selling item after item for a nice profit, sadly, without a credit or a donation, I have decided to request a very small fee for my pattern work, so that I can continue to come up with new ideas and patterns.
The pattern is for sale for $2.00 (USD) on Ravelry.com
The pattern is also for sale for $2.00 (USD) on Etsy.com
If any Errata are found, or thoughts about the pattern come up, I would love to hear them. Please feel free to respond on my blog, on Ravelry.com (user: projecthallway) or send me an email at projecthallway AT gmail.com.
Enjoy!
I am making new things all the time. You can follow me on facebook & on twitter.
I have also added the second hat I made using this pattern to my 12in11 list.
The pattern is for sale for $4.00 (USD) on Ravelry.com
The pattern is also for sale for $4.20 (USD) on Etsy.com
©2011 Julie Grantz. All Rights Reserved.
Please respect copyright law and Do Not Reproduce in any form. Duplication & distribution of this pattern in any form without express permission of the author is a violation of copyright law: You may not make multiple copies of this pattern, reformat it for commercial use or resale, or sell items made from this pattern. Your respect for coypright law allows me to keep bringing you new and interesting designs. Write with feedback or errata at: projecthallway AT gmail DOT com
A Simple Hat.
December 13, 2010 § 9 Comments
As I have recently made a number of hats for the Holidays, I have come across a big problem. I have used a number of different patterns, but I have yet to find a good pattern, for a masculine hat that is sophisticated in its simplicity. So, I have made my own pattern.
I am sure that this pattern is similar to a number of others out there, but I did create it all on my own, based on what I wanted.
The way that Ramon likes to wear hats, he likes to be able to take the ribbed section and flip it up, or down depending on the temperature. This hat is made to be long enough to almost cover the ear with the ribbing folded up, and made to be very low on the neck, ear, and mostly likely over the eye-brows when the ribbing is flipped down.
Yarns:
I chose to work with this specific yarn because it is very soft, and wonderful to knit with. I have realized that the softer the yarn, the more comfortable on the neck and forehead over long durations of time. Knit with the US size 7 needles, the tightness of the stitches provides generous enough elasticity and a lot of warmth in addition to the softness.
Color A:
Blue Sky Alpacas, Worsted Cotton, 613 Ink (Black), 1 Hank 150 yards, and this project used almost the entire hank.
Color B:
Blue Sky Alpacas, Worsted Cotton, 614 Drift (White), 1 Hank, 150 yards, used probably about 1/4 of a hank.
Gauge:
4.5 sts per inch on size 7 needles
OR 18 sts and 26 rows equals 4″ x 4″
Needles:
US size 6, 20″ or 24″ circular needles, for ribbing
US size 7, 20″ or 24″ circular needles, for the cap
Large Hat, 24″ in Diameter
Ribbing:
Row 1: With Size 6 circular needle, Using Color A, CO 96 sts using continental method, pm,
Row 2: On the next round, Join sides, being careful not to twist stitches.Work in k2 p2 rib, in the round
Row 3-20: Continue working in k2 p2 rib, in the round. Piece should measure 3.25″
Striping:
Row 21: Switch to Size 7 circular needle, working in stockinette stitch, k12, m1, repeat to end of round [104 sts]
Row 22–23: Knit even.
Row 24-25: Add in Color B, be sure to carry up the opposite color at the marker whilst. Knit even
Row 26–28: Switch back to color A, and knit even. (3 rows)
Row 29–37: Switch back to color B, and knit even (8 rows)
Row 38–40: Switch back to color A, and knit even. (3 rows)
Row 41–42: Switch back to color B, and knit even (2 rows). You are now finished with Color B and no longer need to carry it up. Cut the yarn, leaving at least 4″ to weave back into secure.
Row 43–55: Using color A knit 12 more rows even. Piece should measure 8″ from CO edge.
Cap Decreasing:
Row 56: K11, k2tog, repeat to end of round
Row 57: K10, k2tog, repeat to end of round
Row 58: K9, k2tog, repeat to end of round
Row 59: K8, k2tog, repeat to end of round
Row 60: K7, k2tog, repeat to end of round
Row 61: K6, k2tog, repeat to end of round
Row 62: K5, k2tog, repeat to end of round
Row 63: K4, k2tog, repeat to end of round
Row 64: K3, k2tog, repeat to end of round
Row 65: K2, k2tog, repeat to end of round
Row 66: K1, k2tog, repeat to end of round
Row 67: K2tog until you have only four stitches remaining. Pull 4 stitches carefully to inside of hat, and using a crochet hook, weave tail of yarn through the stitches, securing.
When I get a moment, I’ll create the same pattern for smaller sized hats, as I know this one is on the larger side.
If you find any errors I would love to know!
Enjoy!
©2012 Julie LeFrancois. All Rights Reserved.
Please respect copyright law and Do Not Reproduce in any form. Duplication & distribution of this pattern in any form without express permission of the author is a violation of copyright law: You may not make multiple copies of this pattern, reformat it for commercial use or resale, or sell items made from this pattern. Your respect for coypright law allows me to keep bringing you new and interesting designs. Write with feedback or errata via my contact page. Thank you.
