You know how I'm planning to knit 12 sweaters in 2012? Well, that inspired one of my lovely co-workers to resolve to try knitting her first sweater. Since the pattern she's using was on my to-knit list, I thought I'd join in. Then I convinced Tina to jump on the bandwagon. And then I got thinking...
Wouldn't it be fun if we ALL made a sweater together?
(Please say yes!)
We're having a knit-along!
We're going to knit a sweater by B.C. knitwear designer Jane Richmond. Her Classic Raglan Pullover for ladies is a perfect first sweater. And it's called "classic" for a reason – this sweater is a wardrobe staple that seems to work for everyone, and just about every occasion. Have a look:
Photo, courtesy Jane Richmond
Slim but not too slim, with a tiny bit of waist shaping, this works over a shirt and under a coat – a great transitional piece as we move into spring. It's sweet and simple and just so versatile.
Photo, courtesy Jane Richmond
If you're eager to move past the scarf-knitting stage, this pattern fills the bill – the fairly simple construction is not intimidating, there are lots of sizes to choose from, and it uses Patons Classic Wool, which is widely available and comes in a ton of great colours.
We'll launch the KAL next Friday, so there's time for you to gather your materials and get ready to cast on. Then we'll check in each Friday for the next six weeks, with status updates, hints and tips, and maybe (if we're feeling fancy) a fashion show of our finished sweaters. You can use the comment section as a forum if you have any questions as you knit, and to encourage your fellow knitters.
Interested? I hope so!
You can find the pattern online on Jane's website, via Ravelry, or in her Etsy store. Sizes range from a 30- to 50-inch bust – or, if you'd like to start small, there's also a pattern for a child's sweater.
Too cute! Photo, courtesy Jane Richmond
You'll also need some standard knitting kit: 4.5 and 5 mm needles (32-inch circulars and DPNs), stitch markers, and a tapestry needle. Yarn requirements range from 4 to 7 balls (100 g each), from 820 to 1435 m, of Patons Classic Wool or another worsted weight wool – it's all spelled out clearly in the pattern.
I'm excited, and I hope you'll chime in in the comments if you're up for the challenge. Now: to the yarn store!
