Saturday, July 30, 2016

Continuing "Sparks" & Swatches


I re-wrote my last post many times before I published it.


It was a little bit agonizing, because I was trying to be honest about what I am not so good at; yet, I also tried to write a post that was (at least a little bit) worth reading.

As I wrote that post, I was reminded that I DO like to write about my design "sparks" and my swatches. A few of those posts have actually been my most popular.

My friend, Ann, took this photo of me wearing my first design sample for my new summer top.

  
Not so bad. I was "pleased" with the way this turned out. I have named it Pinstripe Box-Top #1. The shaping and sizing came out as planned.

This,

Alchemy Yarns, Silken Straw [100% silk], 153c - Spider Orchid
  
my yarn and it's color, were my real design "sparks". I first shared this photo with discussion of the colorway, Spider Orchid, in my Early Spring post.

For me the colors drew a comparison to the blue spruce trees (which have lightened in color with the heat of summer) in my front yard.


Not long after I decided that I wanted stripes on my summer top, I walked into Gosh Yarn It and I saw a great little yarn for my blue spruce stripes. I quickly knit the swatches in the first photo.

ITO, Gima 8.5 [100% cotton], 408 - Aqua

I am considering my Pinstripe Box-Top a prototype, and I am planning to make another with some Shibui, Pebble in my stash. I have made a bit of progress this spring and summer getting to a point where I can finally release a garment pattern.


I leave you with an image of the neckline and armhole details.

 

I hope your knitting of late has also been rewarding, enjoyable and successful! ♥♥♥

1 comment:

  1. Having written one pattern, I now know what's involved. And my goodness, it's a lot of work, but so much fun to finally see a vision realized.
    I love your new design. It fits wonderfully and you look great in it, Carolyn.

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