12 in 2012 #11

Here is project number 11.    I love the way the stitches spiral around this hat and that I only have one more project to make 12 for this year!  Yay for me!!!!

I used up some left over wool from my blue hoodie (Project #1 in 2012).  I used a much smaller needle than the pattern recommended and also smaller than I used for the hoodie.  Result?  A much tighter, sturdier fabric.  I like it much better.  I won't rip out the hoodie as it is OK as it is but I would definitely use a smaller needle next time.  That would mean significant adjustments to the pattern to get the size right.  Too much for me right now!!  The hat was an easy change just add extra stitches and knit til it is long enough.  A sweater takes much more fiddling about than that.

Pattern: Hurricane Hat by Andrea Goutier
Yarn: Knitpicks Wool of the Andes
Colour:  Sapphire Heather

12 in 2012 #10

Here is project number ten for 2012 - a purple Counterfort Sweater.
This sweater is knitted top down all in one on circular needles.  Lots of new stuff to learn but the pattern was so clear that it was easy.  The yarn was beautiful too.  The little bit of silk makes for a lovely soft, smooth feeling fabric.  The only minor complaint is that the colour is a little darker than I wanted but it still looks beautiful with jeans and over a white shirt . 

Colour me happy!!!

Pattern: Counterfort Sweater Vest by Melissa J Goodale
Yarn: Knitpicks Gloss DK
Colour:  Admiral

August Socks

These were not as successful as I had hoped. 
I started with the needle size recommended in the pattern and loved the feel of the fabric and the pattern.  I was knitting to gauge but then realized that the pattern was too small for my feet.  My dilemma was whether to add another pattern block (16 stitches) or just increase the needle size.  In the end I increased the needle from 2.5 to 2.75 and added 2 K stitches between the pattern panels.  This had the effect of lessening the bias but also creating a looser fabric than I like.  I was worried about having enough yarn.  As it turns out I had lots left so the extra pattern might have been a better option.  I could still do that but I don't think the yarn will stand being ripped out again.

 I chose to use a K2P2 cuff as picot hems don't stay up on my legs and I can't stand droopy socks.  The pattern called for a short row heel which is not my favourite but I decided to follow the pattern.  Again, I wish I had followed my instincts and gone for the heel flap.  The holes along the turns are way too big for my liking.  The result of using larger needles.  When it came to the toes, I didn't do the short row toes in the pattern.  I just used regular decreases finished with Kitchener stitch.  At last the right decision!!

Pattern: Nutkin from Knitzi.com
Yarn: Knit Picks Felici
Colour: Botany