Project Spectrum-first knitting WIP

Project Spectrum is a year-long KAL that focuses on the changing seasons as inspiration for the projects we choose. I decided to take part in PS this year, as I love the idea, although I feel a little silly thinking about seasons, what with the lack of them here in H-town. Still, the idea is nice, and it felt like a decent challenge, to try and focus on different elements and colors each few months.

For my first project, I chose a pattern I purchased several months ago, from Ysolda called Liesl. When I started thinking about the parameters of this first PS direction, North, this pattern seemed like a great start. I happen to have some leafy green Paton's Classic Wool Merino left in my stash (I made my first shrug from this yarn), which I thought would make a great spring garment.

Now, really, the first phase of Project Spectrum is supposed to be about winter, but I have to be a bit realistic, because of said seasonal challenges here. It does feel earthy, though, in that it grows quickly, and seemingly organically, off the needles.

Ysolda gives great directions on how to make certain modifications in this pattern. I chose the wide neckline option, and I'm skipping buttonholes. I wasn't sure how I'd like them placed or if I'd like them at all, so I'll improvise on that when I'm finished. I am thinking it will be full-length, with half or three-fourths length sleeves.

I love this pattern.

Sunday stash #17

Amy Butler fabirc, from the Midwest Modern line, half yard purchased from Cia's Palette

Sunday stash #16

This is destined to be a pillow, I believe. This is one yard of Tula Full Moon Forest, purchased from Cia's Palette.

FO: Not Pink

I'm feeling pretty good today. It's a lazy Saturday, with no obligations. This is a rarity and I'm taking full advantage. I'm hanging out with the cats, starting a new knitting project, laundry, drinking coffee, etc. It's an awesome day. It's also the perfect opportunity for me to show you my latest FO and my new haircut:

Details: (Not) Pink, by Wendy Bernard from Custom Knits
Yarn: Berroco Touche, 6 skeins (about 540 yards)
Needles: Size 4, size 6 circulars
Time: just under four months
Recipient: me!
Thoughts: This was yet another learning experience for me. When I bound off the first time around, it was entirely too tight, so I set it aside for almost two months, until I had the patience to undo and redo the bind off. I'm glad I took that time, as I think it looks stellar.
I made the sleeves much shorter than called for, mostly because I live in Houston and it's already in the eighties most days. I think I'll get a lot of wear out of this year-round. I skipped the neck ribbing, and I kind of dig the loose, casual neckline. I didn't add any increases at the waist, and I'm glad: the fit is nice and not too tight. Based on my experience with Something Red (and Yellow), I stopped the increases early (I increased way too much).

Success!

Sunday stash #15

half yard of Echino Bird to Hang, purchased from Superbuzzy. Love this!

FO: Vest-uary Marigold

Only a week past the goal, my Vest-uary project is complete. I'm super pleased with it, and it was worth the extra week. I just finished weaving ends, and I can already tell I'll get use out of this one.

Details: Ms. Marigold, by Zephyr Style
Yarn: KnitPicks Elegance, just short of four skeins, Lilac
Needles: Size 3, size 5 circular
Time: 5 weeks
Recipient: me!
Thoughts: I really thought the pattern was enjoyable, and the yarn is so silky soft. I am excited I have an extra ball of it to make an accessory/gift. I can see myself wearing this often to work, which was the idea, so, mission accomplished!

Sunday stash #14

Alexander Henry fabric, just purchased from Cia's Palette, 2 yard

Sunday Stash #13

Sunny fabric