I can't believe that I have completed three sweaters in less than 3 months. Granted, 2 of them were in big wool, but it still feels like an accomplishment to me. Here is the newest addition to my wardrobe: Gormley from the Jaeger Natural Fleece book. Gormley is a fitted sweater using Jaeger Natural Fleece. It has set-in bell sleeves and uses three colors: Peat, Cowrie and Cameo. Here is the sweater right after finishing:
Here's the sweater on a real person
I like the feel of the Natural Fleece -- it has a very nice, soft touch, but I think I am done with big wool for a while. I probably should have made this sweater in a slightly smaller size. I think then it would have a better fit. On the overall, I was disappointed with this pattern -- too many things that make the overall product look and feel better were omitted due to what seems like a fear of "scaring off" novice knitters. I don't really like dumbed down patterms, especially when it's not really necessary. The Natural Fleece has a somewhat sheepy smell now that I have wet it to block it -- not bad, just a little like wet wool. On the positive side, I discovered that mattress stitch could easily be used to attach set-in sleeves, and this sweater will definitely keep me warm!
I will close this post by saying that I think I am developing a new addiction: socks on two circular needles! Julie and Emma have been encouraging me to take the plunge int the world of sock knitting. Double points made me miserable (Sorry Julie -- and everyone else who loves DPs) but circulars feel so natural and easy to use. I promised Emma that she would get regular updates on the socks made with the lovely Opal she sent me. So here is my first entry into my sock knitting picture collection (the Opal is from the Brasil collection).
I can't believe I am actually knitting on size 2 needles. I am definitely enjoying watching the sock develop. I'm going to re-start John's Mission Falls socks on DPs tonight (my Mom came to visit and brought me a set of AddiTurbos in the right size, can't wait to try out my first set of Addi's) and I told Mom if she brought me some Koigu, she'd get a pair of socks, too. She picked out a beautiful colorway. As soon as I get my ball winder and some size 3 circs, I'll probably cast hers on too -- the Koigu is just so wonderful to touch!
