Tuesday, April 17, 2007

The forecast is chilly...

at least I kind of hope it stays sweaterish weather a while longer, so I can wear my latest FO. The pattern was easy to follow (Thanks, Stefanie! -- although, of course, I got myself into trouble a few times by misreading it), and I really like the way it turned out.

forecast1forecast8forecast5

FORECAST (Knitty)
Knitpicks Wool of the Andes "Arctic Pool Heather" (110 yds per ball) ~8.5 balls
US 5, 6, and 7 Denise circulars, US 5 and 7 DPNs

Modifications: I knit the pattern as written except for the following changes: (1) I wanted to make approx. a 34 inch bust. My gauge was a little off, so I ended up using the instructions for the smallest size; (2) I lengthened the ribbed portion of the lower border on the body and switched from a US 5 to a US 6 needle halfway through to give the effect of a hip increase; (3) I started the lower border on the sleeves just below the elbow and made the sleeves a tad longer; (4) I made 3 stitch bobbles instead of 5 stitch bobbles.

forecast6

This was my first top-down raglan, and I quite liked it. As I was knitting, I was a little worried that my raglan increases were looking weird, but I think they turned out OK. Also, I ended up with a hole in each armpit (I have read that most patterns have you cast on a few stitches there when you start knitting the sleeves), but I sealed them up easily with some extra yarn. Even though I don't necessarily have anything against seaming, I enjoyed finishing the knitting, sewing on the buttons -- and being done! Being able to try the sweater on during the process was also invaluable.

forecast7forecast9

10 comments:

Alicia said...

This has got to be one of the most beautiful knits I've seen. The fit is great too. Nice job.

Octopus Knits said...

Thanks! That's so nice of you.

rachel iufer said...

excellent job! this sweater is a perfect fit on you!

Sarah said...

Fantastic job! I just love the color, and it fits you so well!

Unknown said...

Wow! That is stunning. I just started Forecast and have been lurking and reading people's blogs about the pattern. You did an amazing job.

If mine comes out half as nice, I'll be happy!

Pig wot flies said...

Good work and a beautiful colour.

Octopus Knits said...

Thanks everyone!!

Bear Knits said...

This is gorgeous! I like your mods.

Elizabeth said...

Your Forecast is just gorgeous - definitely one of the prettiest ones I've seen knit from this pattern. Beautiful job!

Deodand said...

Your Forecast is gorgeous. I have to ask - how did you get your button back to sit so nice and neat? Mine bulges around each button.