I was far busier than I had hoped or I would have posted things for you (like my new boots! Thanks for the suggestions! A timely boot sale fixed me up nicely :]). But, as promised, at least I have this for you!
Narcissa
Pattern: Rock Island by Jared Flood
Yarn: Alpaca with a Twist Fino in Silver Belle
Needles: US 6
I don't recall ever encountering a pattern that made me think, "I'm not sure I can do this." With some quiet, time, and some reference to knitting techniques (either a book or YouTube) any knitter can knit anything. Reading the thread dedicated to this shawl in the Brooklyn Tweed Ravelry group gave me pause about this shawl, however. Lots of very skilled knitters have had to set it aside and regroup.
I had to pay very close attention to what I was doing any time I worked on it, but it didn't take long to get into a rhythm or to figure out when I had made a mistake and quickly fix it. Be wiser than I and use a lifeline in the Rock Island section. I had to tink back three rows to figure out a problem. That was not fun.
As always, Fino is a dream to work with. Even though it tends to knit up somewhat unevenly, I knew already that it would (and did!) block perfectly. This was my first real blocking experience where I pinned out every point and measured mercilessly. It paid off! I think I need to invest in blocking wires, though.
Though the border took ages, I really, really loved knitting it. I vow right now to knit every Jared Flood (and Brooklyn Tweed!) pattern because they make me so incredibly happy. They are much simpler than they appear (this one is the only exception I've encountered and it is by no means impossible) and exceptionally well-written.
Have a nice, relaxing weekend! Again, I hope you all had a very relaxing and fulfilling holiday! We'll catch up next week. For more FO Friday posts, go to Tami's Amis!
That is definitely an accomplishment! You must feel even better because you didn't struggle with it as much as some other people have. It was definitely worth the effort in my opinion. You also picked out a great color. I'm so glad to hear that you had a great Thanksgiving and found some boots!
ReplyDeleteI've been dreaming of knitting this shawl for years! I saw it the first time I figured out the ravelry pattern search and it was love at first sight!
ReplyDeleteI'm currently knitting the Juneberry Triangle shawl by Jared Flood. Aweeeesome pattern! It's the second time I'm knitting it but the pattern is still pretty challenging (aka you really have to pay attention)
It's so beautiful! I love that color. Soft & sweet. : )
ReplyDeleteoooh, good to know! i've been eying this pattern for forever... now i know: save it until i'm looking for a challenge...
ReplyDeleteyours turned out just lovely!