Closure
My project from last year's Knitting Olympics is finally done.
The pattern was the Shawl-collared Vest from Meg Swansen's Handknitting. The yarn was a very softly spun 2-ply marl, 50/50 alpaca/merino. It was knit in the round with steeks for the armholes and neck openings, using 5 mm needles. Stockinette gauge about 4.25 sts/inch.
I love the shawl collar. I love the way the cables run straight through the ribbing. I love the columns of twisted knit stitches. I love the buttons. I used five instead of three, with a smaller one at the top.
And I love the fit, which is better than it appears. It was designed for outdoor wear over bulkier sweaters, so the armholes are big and deep. I believe I could wear it over my heavy fleece jacket. You can count on seeing it among my many layers at Rhinebeck next year.
What a relief to finally have it done. And oh so soft and cozy.
Oh, that sweater under the vest? Bought specifically for the purpose at Value Village for $4. It is a very nice machine-made stranded knit (about 9 sts/inch), in a peculiar but very comfortable blend: 50% ramie, 40% cotton, 4% angora, 5% nylon, and...1% wool. The angora gives all the stranded bands that lovely soft halo that only bunny fluff can provide, while the solid bands seem to be of the ramie/cotton persuasion. In any case it is perfect for hiding the alpaca hair that sheds from the vest.
Wow, this is so beautiful! Margene sent me the link, as I am looking to make an outdoor vest for such a purpose... you have me inspired!
Hey I was just there and you didn't show it off to me? Must show me next time please...I want to touch:) It's de-lovely to look at and must be de-lightful to touch!
The vest is beautiful!!
That is one beautiful vest! I love everything about it, those buttons are fabulous! Good job! Yet another book goes on the list..thank you so much!
I think that is an incredible sweater for $4.00, wow. I don't think we have Value Villages here in Oklahoma but I'd so be there if we did.
Good seeing you again.
Very nice, bravo.