Announcing Our Winter 2010 Knit-Along!

Dana P

I am planning on knitting this for… Me 😉 In the Nature’s Brown.

And, hello! I am Dana from Michigan – I LOVE to knit, just wish I had more time to do it. I’ve been looking for a new project, and this looks like it will be perfect! I’m excited to join a knit along.

Arlene

I’m Arlene from Maine. I plan to knit this for me! Not sure which color yet. I’m excited to start this Knit-Along.

Debbie A

Hi, I’m from Maine and this will be my first KAL and I’m excited! I have been thinking about making this sweater for a while now, so this is perfect. I will be making it for my oldest daughter. I haven’t decided on Natural or Nature’s Brown yet. Either color will be beautiful, so I’ll wait to see which is available at the store. (Actually, I would like it for myself in the Maple Twist-maybe next time!)

I have been making socks, mittens and gloves for months now, so it’s time for a good sweater!

ekgheiy

Nice. I wish I knit fast enough to do KALs.

Have fun!!

Hope Meltser

Hi, I love the look of this sweater! However I just wanted to point out that this is a very hard sweater for any beginners or not life long knitters, and that you have yet to do a knit along that is more of a beginner pattern. I would love to participate in a knit-along but with my limited skills that is quite difficult!
Thanks for your understanding!

Jess Says: Hi, Hope. I’m sorry that you won’t be participating! The pattern was chosen by Lion Brand fans. However, it is a great opportunity for beginners to learn new skills. Instead of knitting the entire garment, you could practice one of the cables as a washcloth or make a plain sweater. We hope the next knit-along will be better suited to your interests.

Marnie

I’m Marnie from VA and I wouldlove to do this sweater!! Probably I will Knit it in Natural as this is the most traditional color I think. Looking forward to working on something this challenging!

Marnie

I was going to use Fisherman’s Wool, but in my stash I found more than enough CottonEase. I have knit with it before, and I do like it, but with all of the heavy patterning in the sweater I am afraid it may get really heavy weightwise. I like the stitch definition with CottonEase and I’m sure I could get gauge,but I’m just not sure. I could use some honest feedback!!

Zontee says: Hi Marnie, like Fishermen’s Wool, Cotton-Ease is a category 4 yarn, so it should work nicely in terms of getting gauge (of course, you’ll want to adjust needle size up or down if necessary). Since it has acrylic in addition to cotton, it’s actually pretty suited to garments, since it will give you nice drape without being too heavy. Make a big swatch and see how it feels.

Dona

I can’t wait to start this… i did one last year and i loved it… this sweater reminds me of what my mom used to knit and i am looking forward to making one of my own… for me!!

Jan

I am planing on doing this. Now to get the yarn.

Linda

My name is Linda and I have been wanting to do a knit a long. I just recently lost 55 lbs and am ready to knit something for myself.

Pat

Hi, I’m Pat from NJ. I just finished this sweater in November for my husband and it looks great. Due to a wool allergy, I made it in a natural colored acrylic.
I started with the sleeves so I could get used to a few of the patterns and that made it easier to complete the front and back which has more patterns. I made a chart in order to keep my pattern rows “lined up”.

Beautiful choice! May have to make one for me now!

Theresa

Hi… I’m Theresa from DE… I am excited to knit this for me and then subsequent ones for Christmas gifts this year…. Nothing like getting a head start….

Alex

If I might first address Hope of comment 5, I work at a fabric shop in Northern Maine, and we just started a blog. We will be having knitalongs as well, and the first one is going to be a pretty simple hat, which I made using Vanna’s Choice yarn and it turned out great! The blog website is gardengategab.blogspot.com. I would encourage you to try some cabling, because I put off cabling for a very long time because I thought it would be too hard, and then when I started it was super easy, and actually really fun to see the pattern come out! Plus, with this KAL, you have the added bonus of having lots of people at your disposal to ask questions of! 🙂
Anyway, I’m Alex from Maine, and I’m hoping to knit this sweater either for my cousin or my brother. I’d like to use Cotton-Ease or Lion Cotton, but like Marnie am worried that it will stretch out too much. I think that the hosts for Lion Brand KALs are usually pretty good about suggesting different yarns that would be suitable, so I’m looking forward to the first post. Thanks for the great pattern!

Shannon

I’m Shannon from Massachusetts and I will be knitting this sweater for my husband. He has been asking for a cable knit sweater for years (about 10 minutes after I knit my very first garter stitch swatch!). I’ve made baby blankets and hats in all shapes and sizes and I’ve played around with cables so I think I’m ready now! What a fun winter project this should be! My only concern is that I’m a slow knitter so I may fall behind a bit, but I figure if I just keep knitting I’ll get to add this to my list of knitting accomplishments.

One big question – I see the model is a woman. What adjustments if any will I need to make for a man, or is this a unisex pattern?

Jess Says: Hi, Shannon. This sweater doesn’t have any waist or bust shaping, so it’s really a unisex garment. Take a look at the available sizes and see if they look good for your sweater’s recipient.

Sue

I am from Michigan and just learning to knit, although I have crocheted for years. Would making the hat only be an easier way for a beginner to participate? Or would that be just as challenging as the sweater for someone who is not experienced in knitting?

Jess says: Sue, we’re only making the sweater during the KAL. However, please feel free to work along with us while making the hat! The pattern is rated as Advanced Intermediate, so there will be some more complicated stitches involved. Take a look at the stitch explanations section and see if you are comfortable either already knowing the stitches or learning them along with us. My best suggestion is to try some of the cable patterns on a test swatch and go from there. Best of luck! We’ll be here to help you along.

Leslie Buff

Hi, I am Leslie, from Porter, Indiana near Chicago. I would love to make this sweater for myself, but I am worried about what size I should make because I am a small person (I wear petite sizes) and I do not want to go through all this work and not have it fit. Could anyone give me some advice on fit. I am a 34 bust size and 5’0″. I have made sweaters in classes that where made to fit as we go along. I have done cabling for several years and just finished an Aran cable scraf and hat so I am not afraid of the pattern from that aspect, just the fit. When I look at the schematics I am not sure how to interpet these for my figure. Any help out there would be greatly appreciated before I buy the yarn. Thanks so much.

Zontee says: Hi Leslie, the sweater is a boxier, unisex sweater, which is why the sizes start at 40, and if you don’t mind the looser fit, I’d definitely recommend the smallest size for you. If you’d like it to be smaller and more fitted, you could knit it in a lighter weight yarn (try our gorgeous LB Collection Superwash Merino) to make it smaller. Check out Laura’s blog post about the topic of adjusting a pattern for a different weight yarn.

lisa

this would be my First knit along.
I am so excited.. so nice to work along with others.. esp. since I don’t have a knit group otherwise. ( note to self : teach others to knit 🙂
I think I will knit this either for me or my youngest dd ..
Glad to be here.

Deb

Hello. I’m Deb from the windy city of Chicago. I love this pattern and this is my first knit-along. Love the idea and can’t wait to hear everyone’s feedback. Next step: yarn purchase!

Denise

hmm I might just have to do this. Have the yarn in my stash and need something to perk me up!
Any chance of a chart for those cable panels?

Zontee says: Good question, Denise! In fact, we will be making charts together as part of the knit-along.

Nancy Staub

Hi! I’ve never participated in a Knit Along – but I’m looking forward to this one! Are the sizes listed in the directions accurate for a woman? The smallest is a 40???? (I should be so lucky! LOL) Please advise. Thanks! 🙂

Zontee says: Hi Nancy, the sweater is a boxier, unisex sweater, which is why the sizes start at 40. If you’d like it to be smaller and more fitted, you could knit it in a lighter weight yarn (try our gorgeous LB Collection Superwash Merino) to make it smaller. Check out Laura’s blog post about this topic to adjust the pattern for a smaller chest measurement.

Cheryl

Hi – I’m from mid-Michigan and looking forward to making this for myself (something I haven’t done in several projects). I’m going to try to use two colors with the main one Nature’s Brown and the main cables on the front in Oatmeal or Natural.

The biggest concern I have is the fit of the arms. Sweaters I’ve knit for myself seem too full or bulky under the arm.

Now where did I put those cable needles…..

Donna

Hi,

I love this sweater. The cables are beautiful! I would like to have to large enough to wear layers and would really rather have a cotton sweater. Do you think it would work out alright with the organic cotton?

Zontee says: Hi Donna, if you would prefer to make it in the Nature’s Choice Organic Cotton, try making a swatch and seeing how you like the feel of it. Remember that cotton is a significantly heavier fiber than wool, so you may also want to consider Cotton-Ease. Find out more about either product at LionBrand.com by clicking on “Our Yarns.”

BWYA

I already planned to knit this very sweater, a few times over, this year, so this KAL us right on time!

~BWYA
Texas

Kathy Tan

I’m Kathy from California. I plan to knit this for me and this is my first sweater I will be knitting! Not sure which color yet. I’m excited to start this Knit-Along.

Cindy

Hi, I’m Cindy from California. It doesn’t get cold enough out here to wear wool, so I’ll be knitting this sweater out of Cotton-Ease, using the Cactus color to match my eyes! If it turns out great, I’ll make another one for my husband for Christmas! A Knit-Along is new for me, so my only question is, how fast are the Knit-Alongs paced? Does everyone work at their own speed, or is there a weekly goal to be achieved?

Zontee says: Hi Cindy, each week, Heather will be working on a different part of the sweater, but you are absolutely welcome to work at your own speed. All of her posts will stay on the blog, so whenever you want to revisit them, simply come to the Lion Brand Notebook, and click “knit-along” under the Categories at the right-hand side to see all knit-along related posts.

Hope Meltser

I just wanted to thank Alex and Lisa for their advice! It is much appreciated! 🙂

Phyllis

I’m from Michigan….not near enough time to do all the knitting I’d like to do!!! Right now I’m recuperating from gall bladder surgery and plan to start a baby project for a teacher at school who is expecting in March.

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Nancy

Hi there! This is my first knit along and I have always wanted to make or buy this sweater. OK, for those of us fuller figured beauties, I am hoping that it won’t be to hard to go up to a 3x on the pattern. I will have to swatch this out once and see once what happens, however I have never done this before.

Wish me luck.

Linda

I love this sweater. I think I would wear it and I love cables. I’m supposed to be doing the Knitting On Top of the World Knit-A-Long (at least for this first project). I did the last one after it was finished and read the blog. It was helpful and I liked seeing that what I was knitting was coming out the way it was supposed to.

Pam

I would really like to try the sweater but I am a little intimidated by the cable stitch, a knitter for years but never with cable stitches. Is it difficult? or just take practice and patience? I really enjoy the KAL’s and the blog.

Zontee says: Hi Pam, practice and patience is really all it takes. Cables are quite easy once you get the hang of them. Try some practice swatches and you’ll get the hang of it!

Arizona

Hello!
I’ll join in. I have quite a few skeins of fishermen’s wool in my stash!

katie

I’m Katie from Germany. The sweater is really beautiful and I’m looking forward to knitting it for me as my first ever knit-along.

Theresa Douglas

I’m so glad to see that you’re donig this sweater!!! I bought all the yarn to do this sweater months ago. I have gotten started not 2x and have ripped it all out twice! So this KAL is just in time!!! I can’t wait! My problem is trying to map out the directions. I’ve handwritten them out on index cards – that was time consuming in itself. I stared with the back then after a few inces decided to rip it out and thought it might be easier to start with sleeves in order to get the pattern down??? I was having truoble keeping up with the pattern and what to do if I dropped a stitch…. I can’t wait to get started.

Zontee says: Hi Theresa, one of the things Heather will be doing is showing how to chart out cables. This is extremely helpful to people who find that they have trouble keeping with the pattern, as it’s a visual drawing of the pattern for you to refer to, so stay tuned.

Karen

I am from Brandon, Michigan. I have only made baby sweaters and it has been a long time at that. I have been teaching my daughter to knit and she just finished mittens. This sounds like a great project. Yarn is on sale at Joannes and Michaels. Looks like I am shopping for sweater yarn.

Deb

Hi I am a school teacher in Chicago and this will be a perfect project for my New Year’s resolution to “make time for myself.” I am very excited to participate and a little nervous! This is my first knit-along and I think the group participation will definitely be a motivating factor and a great help!

Norma Van Natta

I’m from Charleston, OR and am looking forward to joining this KAL, having never done one before. I like Aran sweaters and made one for myself a few years ago and another for one of my adult sons shortly after that. This one will either be for me or for my son’s fiance. I haven’t made her anything except a cap so far, think she is a terrific woman and perfect for him, so I want to make her something to show that I’m on her side and want her in our family.

Donna

Hi, I live near Seattle and think I’ll give this a try. I have no idea how a knit along works though. Can anybody tell me? Thanks.

Zontee says: Hi Donna, as it says above, just work on your sweater at your own pace, read the blog posts for hints and tips, and comment when you feel like it to share your progress with others. We’re all here to help each other out as we work on the Inishturk Sweater.

Christine W

Hi, I’m Christine in Wisconsin. This looks like a great sweater. I made the Cable-Lux last year with the KAL. I will be making this sweater in the small size with the fisherman yarn. I taught myself to knit 10 years ago and tried cables for the first time last year. They are very easy to make. The comments and support from all the other knitters is always great.

Ilene

Hi, I’m Ilene from Central New York and am looking forward to participating in my first KAL! I currently have about four other projects on needles at the moment, but that doesn’t mean I can’t start something for myself, right? Any excuse to go yarn shopping! I just hope I can keep up since I haven’t much experience with cables.

Anita

Hi,
I’m Anita from Rupert, ID. I’m a quilter who also knits. I have limited experience with cables and think I will try making this for myself. Looking forward to getting started.

Denise Smith

Hi, I’m from Portland, OR and this is my first time blogging and joining a knit along, so I am very excited to be here. I will be making this sweater for my husband.

Sherry

Sherry from northeast Texas! I signed up for a KAL last year and never got off the ground with it. But I’ve been wanting to do a sweater like this for years. I’ve been knitting for going on four years and after the prerequisite washcloths and scarves, oh and the one pullover sweater, I jumped into socks. I’m slow because I pick patterns with YOs and SSKs. I’ve done a pullover vest with cables. I feel as if I can do anything now! Very, very slow though. ;o) I’ll try to keep up. Yarn is ordered!

Judy

Virgin Wool makes me nervous. Is it itchy? Would it better to do in Cotton Ease? Love the sweater and I enjoy knitting cables… Just worried about the itch…

Zontee says: Hi Judy, in terms of wool, Fishermen’s Wool is pretty soft, but if you prefer not to use wool at all, then Cotton-Ease or Vanna’s Choice would be good choices.

Claire

Hi, I’m Claire in Nashville. I am going to attempt this sweater as I simply love it! I used to do a lot of knitting but have not had time to do much in more than 10 years so this will be “getting back in touch” experience. This is my first knit along but I am going to jump in with both feet.

I have a question about the pattern. I am a slow knitter and probably won’t keep up with the speed of others. Can I knit this sweater with just the center panel in cable and the rest in the pattern on the sleeves that doesn’t seem to be too involved? I would appreciate any suggestions or comments. I don’t want to start the project and then fall beind the group because I can’t keep up. thanks!

Zontee says: Hi Claire, first off, please remember that you are welcome to work on the sweater at your own pace, so no pressure. Secondly, you are free to edit the sweater as you see fit. It’s your project!

Jane

Hello, I am Jane from Denham Springs, LA. It has been many, many years that I have knitted a sweater that fits me right! I have also wanted to knit myself a sweater like this one for a long, long time. My grandmothers taught me to knit, crochet, sew and cook. Busy with an oval crocheted table cloth for a friend, but need some desperate me-knitting! This is a great project! Plan to do the hat as well. Wish the yarn came in a pink, but am settling on the natural/oatmeal. Going to try to find the yarn at my local craft store.
Now for a question, if I can’t find this particular yarn, or the Cotton-ease, which other yarns will be suitable for this project?

Zontee says: Hi Jane, any of our category 4 (medium) weight yarns will be great. Wool-Ease, Cotton-Ease, and Vanna’s Choice all come in some beautiful colors, as does Lion Wool if you’re looking for another 100% wool option. Now, please remember to buy your quantity based on total yardage needed. So if you’re making the smallest size of the pattern, that would require 3 balls of Fishermen’s Wool, which is a total of 1395 yards (465 yards per Fishermen’s Wool ball x 3 balls). Now you’ll want to divide the number of yards per ball of your replacement yarn INTO the 1395 yards you need to get a total number of balls you need. Hope that helps!

Anne

Hello, my name is Anne from Palo Alto, CA. I just picked up the yarn and supplies for this beautiful sweater today. I’m using Wool-Ease instead of the Fisherman’s Wool. I love the way it looks and feels, and it’s machine washable. The weight is the same so the gauge should work. I’ll check that tonight. Since it comes in smaller balls I had to get 7 instead of the recommended 3. I hope I can keep up with the group. This is going to be fun.

Zontee says: Hi Anne, make sure that you check the yardage to see how many balls you need. See my comment above for more on how to do the math.

charlotte

I love to knit and have always wanted to join a knitting group. This will be great to share a project with a group. It is reassuring to be able to discuss the project and work through any problems that may arise. I can not wait to start this sweater.

Amy

I like the concept of a knit-along, but I am primarily a crocheter who knits a little. I’d love to see a crochet-along!

Nancy

Hi, I’m Nancy in Kansas. I too have wanted to make this sweater for some time, it reminds me of an afghan pattern I made many years ago. I’ll make it in a natural wool-ease, since I have a lot on hand. I’m new to blogging, but it looks as easy as doing cables. What a great idea, one big club!

Shannon

I have just started a sweater for myself, but am wondering if the blog notes and comments will still be archived here once the KAL is done, as I would like to do this sweater but have not decided if I will stop what I am working on to do this and (hopefully) restart the sweater I am already working on…

And I am really just learning to do cables…

Thanks, Shannon

Zontee says: Hi Shannon, yes, all blog posts are archived. Simply click the “knit-along” link under Categories on the right-hand bar of the blog to see them.

Wendy

I am from Burlington, Vermont. I am so jazzed about making this sweater. I am just finishing my first “intermediate” project in the Swift River Hat in LB baby alpaca. I love the idea of a knit along and really stretching myself out of my knitting comfort zone more and more. Off to make my supply list!

Kristyle

Hi – I’m Kristyle from Dallas. I’m eager to jump in with this KAL – I’m hoping it will keep me motivated! I’m one of those people who starts projects but then gets distracted and doesn’t finish! I’m not a very fast knitter, but I’ve done cable projects before so I don’t think I’ll having any problem with the pattern. Thanks for picking such a beautiful sweater!

cherri

But I only crochet! Are there projects for “crochet alongs”?

Zontee says: Hi Cherri, we alternate between knit-alongs and crochet-alongs. Before this project, we did a Motif Afghan Crochet-Along, and after it, we will be doing a new project. Please check back later this year for a crochet-along or find them on communities like Crochetville.org or Ravelry.com

Mary Anne

Hi,
I have never participated in a knit along and am looking forward to it. I made a similar sweater years ago and it turned out too big. So, I have a question about the size. Chest size is 35.5″ and length from neck to bottom is 25″. It seems as though I should make a small, but all shirts I wear are a medium. What would you recommend?

Zontee says: Hi Mary Anne, as sweater sizes vary (what is “small” in one pattern may be “medium” in another), always go with the measurements. In this case, if the measurements suggest that you make a small, make a small.

Rochelle

Hi — just read all 53 posts. I really want to do this sweater. I am looking forward to joining a KAL and hope that I can keep up. I will be making this for myself and not sure the color yet. I have done cables in hats and scarves. I have looked at and tried the “LT” (Left twist) and for the life of me can’t seem to ‘get’ it. I am hoping for some EXPERT advice from some of you on how to do this “LT”….I know that when it hits me it will be a ‘duh’ moment. LOL

Darry

Hi, I’m from Northern Illinois and I’ve wanted to try this type of sweater for a long time. My husband asked me when I was going to make a sweater for him so this is it!!! We purchased the yarn tonight in brown so I’m busy making my guage and will be ready to start on Thursday. This is my first knit a long online.

Laurel

I’m an accountant, and I like to have a creative project going during tax season (that’s Jan-April, for you non-accountants out there), in the hopes of keeping myself a little more balanced. I work the left side of my brain really hard all day at work, and I like to go home and give my right brain a little something to do, so it doesn’t feel neglected. This looks like just the thing! Can’t wait to start. Must get yarn tomorrow.
bonus: my knitting group meets on Thursday, too.

Patty

I do like this sweater, even though I voted for the Peplum Cardigan. But I just started knitting a sweater for my husbands birthday which is on Feb. 7th. So I won’t be able to join you.
When I first met my husband 4 years ago he said to me, “Don’t knit or crochet anything for me.” And I said, “Oh, don’t worry, I won’t.” I’d read the “No knitting for boyfriend rules.” But now, after seeing many of my creations, (and he did like the hat’s I knit him), he is looking at my patterns for men’s sweaters and saying, “Oh, I like that one, and that one, etc…” So I’m knitting the one he liked best from the Feb ’10 issue of Knit & Style. But, sshh, don’t tell him.
I will follow the blog and everyone’s work and progress. Best of luck to you all.

Sarah Collins

I am going to have a go at this sweater. I live in England and we’re having an unusually cold winter – we’ve been snowed in for a whole week, which has never happened here before!

Although it is heavily patterned, there isn’t much shaping so I would urge people who are beginners with experience to give it a try. Take it slowly, and pick it up when you have time to really concentrate. Don’t worry about keeping up with the knit-along – enjoy following what’s going on but knit at your own pace. With experience, you get faster!

I made my first Aran sweater over 20 years ago and I’m still wearing it, so it is a project well-worth doing.

I love this website, and last year I joined the ‘crochet-along’ jacket project. It was a new stitch, and I had never considered using two fairly heavy yarns together. The jacket was a success, and I enjoy wearing it as it gets so many compliments.

Lion Brand has a surprisingly big following in the UK – we can get the yarns, but I must admit I often translate them into the British equivalent to use up my stash!

Pam

I haven’t knit a sweater successfully yet and this looks hard, but I’m up for it. I’ll be knitting in nature’s brown. For me. I had been eying both cables and fisherman’s yarn so this sweater is kismet.

Barbara from Nova Scotia

I’m definitely joining this knit-along. The sweater will be for me!

Barb

Hi my name is Barb from Ohio. I have been wanting to make a sweater, but the gauge has scared me off. I am making this for me. This will be my first KAL.
I am taking two classes at my local community college, not sure if I will have the time. I took a cable class at Joann’s; I was amazed at how easy it was.
Good luck to everyone!

Barbara from Nova Scotia

I am wondering if there will be a cable chart available before the knit-along begins.

Zontee says: Hi Barbara, Heather will be showing everyone how to make their own charts as one of her posts. Stay tuned.

Crystal

Hey~ My name is Crystal and from Hampton, Iowa, a small town in north central Iowa. I started knitting in college after a friend showed me how. It was a great stress reliever.
Even though my local yarn shop has given me some simple tips, I am not at all ready to tackle any thing like this sweater, it is BEAUTIFUL. I still make scarves, I know, I should be making something other than scarves by now. But I am making my first garment, a poncho. Good luck ladies and gentlemen with the sweater. I will be checking in once in a while to see what this KAL is all about.

Ruby

HI, I am from PA. I will be knitting this sweater.I just got back to knitting, I haven’t knitted cables for a long time.,but will give it a try.

Dana P

After really looking at the pattern, I was starting to feel a little intimidated – I’m not an expert knitter by any means – I’ve only done scarves, hats & socks (haven’t even completed the socks yet). But, keep in mind, this is a knit along, not a knit contest. We will be knitting this together, and learning together. What better way to expand our knowledge in knitting? 🙂 So, I’m not feeling as intimidated as before. I just need to gather up my penny’s to get the materials.

Karen

Hi, I am from Wisconsin. I have been doing an afghan KAL and the cable square reminded me how much I like doing cables. Years ago I made Aran sweaters for various family members but haven’t made one for about 10 years. I looked through my stash and found some grey heather Wool-Ease that I remembered. If I can get the right gauge I will be making this this sweater for myself. Now to get busy checking the gauge.

Lucy B

I’ve been wanting to make a sweater for myself using Fishermen’s wool in nature’s brown. This will be perfect – and is the kind of sweater I love to make. Have never tried a KAL before, so hope I can keep up.

Ana

I am going to knit this one for myself– not sure of the color yet, but will have fun shopping for it! Perhaps a basic black?

Lynda

I have seen this same pattern in crochet, but cannot find it now, is there anyone out there that can help me find it, it took me 3 days to make then I gave it away so cannot follow the pattern again. Thanks and Blessings Lynda

Zontee says: Hi Lynda, we do not have this pattern in crochet. Please go to LionBrand.com and use the search box if you would like to find crochet patterns that might suit your needs.

Hollie

OH MY!!! I can’t believe the choice. I found this pattern on the ‘free’ cite way back in Nov. I printed it off and put it away, until I completed 5 cabled hats and 2 cabled scarves for Christmas. When yarn went on sale at Jo-Ann’s I purchased enough (even though the stash was probably more than enough)to make it. I have been working on it for about 3 weeks now. My last cable sweater was my first fisherman knit sweater way, way back when. Well, I’m back to cables and love them. After the first couple of rows, with the pattern set, the patterns move along. I’ve chosen to use size 6 kneedles, instead of the 8s. I like it somewhat tighter.

Amy Mallison-Austin

I’m Amy from NW PA. I did the Tree of Life Afghan KAL a couple of years ago and loved the companionship. I just bought enough Wool-Ease in Oxford Grey to make my husband another Aran. I made the first one out of Fisherman’s Wool, but I wanted something more easily washed this time around. I think I will join this KAL so that he will get another sweater in a rather timely manner. 😉

Dottie

I am from MA and new to KAL and just love the sweater, I am making one for my grandson and my son-in-law wants one soe I may do this for him. Can’t wait to start and have someone to chat with. Looking forward to the next six (6) weeks.

Ashlee

Hi, I’m Ashlee from CT. I’m sorry if this question was asked before but there are a lot of questions to go through. I’ve never done a KAL before, and I don’t know what to do. (What page to be on or what to do.) I’ve never knitted anything like this before but I’m a fast learner…I’ve only been knitting for a few months now but I can already do cables and I’m knitting a bag with words in double knitting. Definitely a challenge but I’m getting it. So where do I go from here?

Zontee says: Hi Ashlee, simply work on your sweater, check in each week for new hints and tips here on the Lion Brand Notebook (blog.lionbrand.com), and if you feel like it, leave comments on your progress. Nothing difficult. Just working on a pattern together and supporting each other.

Mary Anne

Hi,
I went shopping for yarn today at JoAnn’s, but only found Wool-Ease in worsted weight, thick & quick and chunky. Which one do I want? The first seemed too light and the last two too heavy.
When I tried to locate other stores that carry Lion Brand at the Lion Brand site, I could not find any on the map. I am in Western Massachusetts, in a town called Otis. Any help you can offer would be appreciated as I would like to join in by Thurs.

Zontee says: Hi Mary Anne, substituted yarns should be the same weight category as the original yarn in the pattern. Fishermen’s Wool is a category 4 (medium/worsted) weight yarn, as is Wool-Ease. Wool-Ease (worsted weight) will give you the closest gauge.

Lynn

Hi,
I’m from New Lenox, IL. Planning on making this for myself, am a little intimidated but anxious to give it a try. Not sure what color I’ll use, have to go to Michaels tomorrow to check out the colors.

Jessica

I am currently finishing this sweater! I am making it for my mom in Natural.

Julie

What a great-looking pattern! Any suggestions for an alternate yarn that’s not made of wool? I’m allergic. Thanks!!

Zontee says: Hi Julie, Heather will be talking about alternate yarns on Thursday, but if you want to get a head-start, Vanna’s Choice and Cotton-Ease will both be nice choices for sweaters.

Kelly

Hi, I’m Kelly from N. Tustin, CA. I love to knit, but with a two year old, I need something fairly simple and this looks perfect. I’m making it for myself!

missleslie36

I’ve always wanted to try cables, a sweater and a knit-along. So I’m getting everything I wanted with this project. I have a few other projects that I have to get done first so I don’t know if I’ll be able to keep up but I’m excited to try!

I think I’ll make it in the Nature’s Brown and I just have to decide if I’ll make it for me or someone else. I haven’t made anything for me in awhile so I might keep it.

Marla

Hi, This will be my first knit along. I plan on knitting this for myself. The timing is perfect because I received a gift card for Michaels for Christmas and was waiting for the perfect project. The Fishermans Wool goes on sale starting today.

Marla in Bellflower, CA

Forgot to add, that I live in Bellflower, CA

Denise Smith

In response to Mary Ann (#77), I am using the Wool-Ease for my sweater, but was not able to get gauge out of the basic, wool-ease yarn. Try the Wool-Ease Chunky, I got perfect gauge out of it even though it is slighty thicker than the fisherman’s wool! Will be making my huband’s sweater out of the oatmeal color. I love it and can’t wait to get started.

P.S. I was born and raised in Southbridge, but let to join the military (22 years retired Air Force)in 1977.

Ruth

I am Ruth from Michigan. This will be my first knit along. I’ve wanting to knit a sweater for myself and I love this one. I am not a fast knitter but should be able to do the pattern. When it comes to sizing, I find the patterns very confusing.
Any suggestions where I can learn more about sizing. My size is 42 but the finished size sounds very large, would I choose a finished size close to 42?
I am really looking forward to this project!

Zontee says: Hi Ruth, go based on your bust size versus the sizes in the pattern. If you would like your sweater to be more fitted, you can go a size smaller than your bust size. If you want it looser, go bigger.

PEGGY

HI MY NAME IS PEGGY I HAVE YET TO DO A KNIT ALONG, I PLAN TO MAKE THIS SWEATER FOR MYSELF IN OATMEAL, I KNIT AND CROCHET, I HAVE NEVER MADE A KNITTED SWEATER FOR AN ADULT ONLY FOR BABIES SO THIS SHOULD BE FUN. I AM LOOKING FORWARD TO THE CHALLENGE. FYI MICHAELS HAS THE FISHERMANS WOOL ON SALE THIS WEEK HOW GREAT IS THAT!

Beth

Hi, I’m Beth from Ohio. I’ll be making this sweater for myself in Nature’s Brown. Hopefully the darker color won’t take away from the wonderful cables! 🙂 I haven’t done a sweater with this intricate a design yet, so this should be a nice challenge. I saw this pattern a few months ago and decided to do it once I had more practice at cabling. And here it is as a KAL! Hopefully I can keep up — I have a couple other projects going on now with deadlines in March, but I’ll do my best! Looking forward to this project!

Jennifer Johnson

Hello, Jennifer from Richmond and this is my first KAL but my second complicated aran sweater. The first was for my husband but we live in the South so it gets worn 1 x year, if we’re lucky. I’m making this for myself out of a merino/Cotton blend I bought a long time ago in a lovely moss green. I may have to modify as it appears to be a little bit finer than the specified yarn, but I want to get the wear for the work! Can’t wait to see how this KAL works!

Granny

Hi! I am from Utah and looking forward to this project. My question is: on the last project, we had several times when we checked the fit– will
you be doing that this time?

Zontee says: Hi Granny, no we will not. The last knit-along was a top-down project, single piece project, in which size could be easily adjusted in many places as you worked. This project will be a piecemeal sweater, where all the pieces will be made and then put together, so it would be difficult to resize it as you worked.

Granny

Another question: Should we have our materials by Thursday 1/21?

Zontee says: Hi Granny, it’s up to you. Some people are gathering their materials, and others are waiting until Heather’s first blog post goes up on Thursday.

Ruth

Hello,
I’m making this sweater for my sister, but I can’t get gauge in the Fisherman’s Wool. I’ve gone up 3 needle sizes, but I’m still too small. I never considered myself a tight knitter. Any suggestions? I bought all the yarn I need.
Ruth

Zontee says: Hi Ruth, first off, how big is your swatch? If it’s too small, your gauge may not be accurate. I would recommend swatching at least 32 stitches and making your swatch at least 6 inches high, washing it as you would your garment (so you will see what it is like after it is washed and blocked, which will also affect the gauge), and then measuring the middle 4 inches to get the most accurate measurements.

Also, some people find that if they switch from wooden to metal needles or plastic, it changes their gauge, so that’s a good tip if you’re still having trouble. Finally, Heather will be going over some more tips on swatching on Thursday, so don’t fret if you’re still having issues.

Madeleine J.

I am an avid knitter, but one who is still in grade school. *sigh* I wish I had time to knit the sweater, but I will be lucky if I even get started on the hat. Perhaps next time, you could do a shorter, easier project?

Thanks!
-M

Zontee says: Hi Madeleine, we purposely chose challenging projects so that people can learn and expand their skill set with us. BUT there are a ton of great knit-alongs out there. Check out some of the projects from our friends at Craftzine.com, which might be more suited to you.

Jeannine

Hi! Jeannine from NW Wisconsin. I, too, had earmarked this sweater in my ‘to-do’ pile and was very excited to see it chosen. Ooooh and I am looking forward to learning how to chart from a pattern, Zontee. Thanks to Marla & Peggy for the tip that Fisherman’s Wool is on sale! I will be headed to Micheal’s tomorrow.

Linda

I love Aran sweaters. You can’t beat them for warmth and texture. And what knitting project isn’t about texture!

Jody

This will be my first KAL. I will be making the sweater for myself, but will be using a handspun alpaca yarn that I spun myself. I will have to do some adjustments because of the size of the yarn. It will be fun to hear how everyone does.

BWYA

Like Ruth (92) and I’m having a hard time getting gauge, too ~ being off by an entire inch (too small). I also do not consider myself a tight knitter and usually get gauge from the recommendations in most patterns, and have never had to change more than 1 needle size before. This is stumping me. I think I’m going to try to knit this using one of the larger sizes in the pattern (I was going to make the smallest one) because it looks like the stitches are going to be too loose if I go up too many needles sizes.

Wish I’d have known about the Michael’s sale sooner!

I have a question, too: what is the planned pace for this sweater? How long is the KAL intended to run?

Zontee says: Hi BWYA, yes, you can definitely keep your needle size and go up in the size you use — if you need any pointers, refer to pattern support specialist Laura’s blog post about resizing. We’ll be working on the sweater over the next 6 weeks, but you are welcome to work at your own pace.

Holli in Memphis

This is my first KAL and first cables. I’m doing the sweater for me in Oatmeal.

Darlene

Hi, I’m Darlene from Ontario Canada. I have never knit a sweater before: kind of a beginner. I have made dozens of pairs of socks, hats scarves etc. Cabling looks fun. I have one question. I am allergic to wool and find cotton too heavy so I need to know what yarn I can substitute.

Zontee says: Hi Darlene, Heather will be talking more about other yarns on Thursday, but Vanna’s Choice or Cotton-Ease (which is a lighter cotton blend) are both good choices.

Amy Pasquarette Caniglia

I would like to join this knit along, I think it’s just the thing to stretch me a bit! I’m wondering if I could easily substitute Homespun – I have a stash of it on hand! How could I estimate how much I would need to complete the project and what adjustments would I need to make? Thanks, Amy

Zontee says: Hi Amy, because Homespun is such a textured yarn, I wouldn’t recommend it for a cable project, as it might be difficult to keep track of your stitches and patterning.

Wendy

I had a lot of trouble with knitting an appropriate gauge swatch too. In pattern I end up with a 3″ swatch. To get to a 4″ swatch I would have to use a size 11 needle and the double seed pattern needed for the swatch looks loose and sloppy. In measurement I would need to knit a medium sweater but to make up for this issue I am going to knit a large instead.

Zontee says: Hi Wendy, if you’re only swatching with 16 stitches, it is not a large enough swatch to measure gauge accurately (gauge at the edges are not accurate). I would recommend swatching 32 stitches and making your swatch at least 6 inches high, washing it as you would your garment (so you will see what it is like after it is washed and blocked), and then measuring the middle 4 inches to get the most accurate measurements.

Also, some people find that if they switch from wooden to metal needles or plastic, it changes their gauge, so that’s a good tip if you’re still having trouble.

Anne

I was also having gauge problems. I’m using Wool-Ease, and thought that was the problem, but apparently not. I switched to size 9 needles and to plastic instead of metal and that seemed to do the trick.

Judy

I’m in Abilene, TX. I have chosen an eco yarn in a dark turquiose. I matched gauge by going up a couple of needles sizes. I’ve started working the back and ripped it out. This will be challenging to keep up with all the changes. But I will conquer with the help of this knit-a-long.

Granny

Will she actually start knitting on Thursday or will she just be discussing yarns etc?

Zontee says: Hi Granny, she will be discussing gauge swatching. You’re free to start whenever you’d like though.

Robin

This will be my first big knitting project. Should prove to be a disaster. I’m excited though.

Anne Harnesk

Hi everyone! I am Anne from Ardrossan, Alberta, Canada. This will be my 2nd KAL. I really love the “Fisherman” look of this sweater. I will be knitting for me with a plan on making one for my husband….. later. (I never get to knit for me)
Not sure which colour yet. I will have to make a stop at Michael’s on the way home. Yeah!

Marla in Bellflower, CA

What time does the event start on Thursday? I’m not sure how this works since it is my first KAL.

Zontee says: Hi Marla, this is not a “live” event. As it says above, you can come any time you want to read the blog posts and work on your sweater. Leave comments when you feel like it. Work on it when you feel like it. Everyone will be working simultaneously, but at their own rate.

Donna in SE Wisconsin

This is my first KAL, and I’m amazed at the number of comments already.
I love the sweater, but overall a bit too ambitious for me. But I want to learn the pattern stitches though, so I’m doing a flat piece (maybe I’ll turn it into a big pillow). It’s not as much fun, but need to use yarn from my stash and only have 1 skein of fishermans wool.

Zontee says: Hi Donna, don’t forget that you can also try just the hat, which will give you a sense of the cables and such — 1 skein should be enough for that.

Facebook User

This is my first KAL, so I plan to knit this for me. I will use wool from a local mill:
http://www.macauslandswoollenmills.com
in a dark purple and denim mix.

Lucy Mc

Hi, my name is Lucy from the middle of New Mexico. This is not my first KAL, but the first web KAL. My sister from post 95 (who lives in central Idaho!) told me about this and it sounds like great fun. I am just finishing up a sweater now and needed a new project. I have been wanting to do a sweater like this for a long time. I will be making this sweater for myself out of some pretty steel grey yarn that I have in my stash.

Zontee says: Hi Lucy, that is very cool that both you and your sister are doing this together long-distance! Kudos!

Pat Rutland

Hi. I’m Pat from Tennessee. This is my first KAL and my first sweater. It may be a bit of a stretch for me to think I can do this but you never know until you try. I’m ready to move from scarves and dishcloths! I’m so excited to get started! I bought the Fisherman’s Wool in Oatmeal. I’m sure it will be next winter before I get to wear it!!

Marianne Gaudio Spencer

Hello. Marianne from Indianapolis. This is my first KAL. This sweater looks fabulous! Would love to make it, but would like to alter it into a turtleneck. Any thoughts? I’ve got some dark green Lion Wool Ease (I think) that’s begging to be made into a sweater! I’ve done cabling before, working on some wristlets right now with cables … tons of fun!

susan

This will be my first ever KAL! As much as I like Fisherman’s wool I’m wondering if I should substitute another yarn since it may be too itchy right next to my skin.

I’ll double check the ONE skein I have on hand before purchasing more but I’m really looking forward to starting this!

BTW- I’m Susan from Maryland

Carol

Hi, I’m Carol, from Brooklyn. I’ve been knitting my way through the stress of the holidays and it’s really helping keep me sane. This sweater is beautiful and complex enough to stay interesting, front and back. I’m looking forward to working it with a group!

Marla in Bellflower, CA

I selected Vanna’s Choice for my project. Last year I knitted a sweater which was a blend of wool and silk. It felt very soft while knitting, but when I tried the sweater on it was too scratchy.

Janet

Perfect timing to get it ready for my daughter’s 10th birthday!

Isabella

Hi, I’m Isabella, from the south Brazil. I’m thrilled at the prospect of knitting along with such lovely company!
I love complex designs, and this one is just the thing! I’m going to knit it in mauve for myself.It’s summer vacation now in Brazil, people WILL call me insane, but just like with Carol (post113) above, knitting keeps me sane.

Linda

Hi
I introduced myself last week and this will be my first knit a long project. I already purchased the wool and am knitting a swatch right now. How does the knit a long work. Do you just long on and see how others are doing? Is there a particular time that everyone joins in?

Thanks

Zontee says: Hi Linda, again, you just work on your project and, at your leisure, read the new blog posts each week for hints and tips, and comment on them if you wish. The blog posts go up on Thursdays, but you can read them any time and work at your own pace. This is not a “live” event — there are no time requirements. Finally, please keep in mind that it can be helpful to read previous comments as often times questions have already been asked and answered.

Annette

Swatch/guage question: if I plan on dry cleaning my garment, then can I just measure my swatch for guage, as is, right off the needles? I’m using L.B. Fishermen’s Wool, as in the pattern. Thanks for your help!

Zontee says: Hi Annette, once you finish a project, you usually want to handwash and block it at least once to get rid of all of the dirt and dust that may have accumulated while you were working on it and to adjust its dimensions if necessary. Therefore, it’s still best to lightly handwash your swatch.

Denise

Hello!

My name´s Denise and I´m from São Paulo, Brazil. I´ll try to knit-along with you, even though I´m kind of a begginer … Let´s see!!!

Janet

I’m sooo excited about this knit-a-long, and hoping to learn lots in the process. I went out to buy my Fisherman’s Wool last night, but worried about my daughter finding it too scratchy (she’s pretty particular about texture). I fell in love with the colour of Vanna’s Choice – Linen – stunning. So, I swatched it out, and found that gauge with 6mm needles – a full mm bigger than recommended. I’ve started knitting the back and found it a bit stretchy…

Question – will I regret using Vanna’s Choice for this project and revert to a different yarn even though it is so beautiful? Advice???

Zontee says: Hi Janet, Vanna’s Choice will be fine. In fact, you’ll see in previous comments that it’s one of the yarns we’ve recommended for substituting for people who are sensitive to wool.

Linnea

I have just expanded my knitting from plain scarves to mittens, socks, and cable knit. I was really nervous to make this sweater but am really excited to have this blog and group to help! What a great way to make a project. I can’t wait to start my first ever knit along:)

Kaye S

I am so glad to find that others are having a time with gauge on this one! Perhaps I,too,am doing too small a swatch. I did the Tree of Life KAL and loved it–no problems with that. I am really looking forward to this sweater. I am off to do a bigger swatch and look forward to tomorrows suggestions. I am using the LB Fishermens that I got at the Michaels sale. Good timing!

Cheryl

I’m Cheryl from SE Wisconsin. This is my first KAL. I plan to make this for my daughter in the Fisherman’s wool natural color, unless she finds it too scratchy. If so, I’ll switch to Vanna’s Choice. Can the front and back be made in one piece on a circular needle, then divided for the armholes and worked back and forth?

Marci

Hi, I’m Marci. This is my first KAL. I have two questions. I knit the swatch on double seed stitch on the size 8 needles and it was slightly too narrow and too short. Redid it on size 9 needles as the Fisherman yard gauge on the package suggested,and the width was perfect and the length just 1/16″ too short. Am I right in assuming that my tension is better suited to knitting it on size 9s?

The second question is size. I am making this for my husband and he has a shetland wool cable knit sweater which is a perfect fit for him. I laid it out and measured the front just below where the sleeves were sewn on. It measured 24″ so doubling that would make a finished size of 48″ Am I correct in assuming from that that I should be making him the size Large?

These may seem like common sense no-brainers, but there is quite a bit of work in that sweater and I want it to fit correctly the first time. Thank you so much for considering these questions.

Zontee says: Hi Marci, size 9s would be correct. Generally speaking, you always want to match your horizontal gauge to the pattern (vertical gauge, you can always compensate by adding more rows on for extra length).

And yes, if your husband’s sweater size is 48″, then that would be the Large size.

Linda

I had the same problem with the swatch. It was slightly off and this is first attempt at a sweater like this. I went ahead and started my ribbing hope that just being slightly off will not affect the fit.

Jill

I am looking forward to knitting this. I plan on entering it in the fair and then I am going to donate it to a charity to keep someone toasty warm. 🙂

Marie

This will be my first KAL, and I was a bit hesitant at first. I am an accomplished knitter, just not very good at “keeping up with the class” so to speak. I mentioned it to my son today, and he did get a gleam in his eye that maybe the sweater would be for him. Maybe it will be, we’ll see. Looking forward to the KAL.

Nancy H.

Hi, Nancy in Colorado here. This is also my first KAL. I have been wanting to make an Aran knit sweater for myself for years, so this is perfect! I’ll be trying this in the round, knitting back and forth above the underarms. I found the yarn on sale at Michael’s too, and am just finishing up a sweater for my husband (with only a single Celtic cable up the front) so everything seems to be fall into place. Started the swatch yesterday, in the round on double pointed needles, 32 stitches around, but need to restart as I realized that it will be difficult to measure if it’s only twice as big as the area I need to measure. Think I’ll go 48 stitches this time. Thankfully, I’ve only knitted a few rounds. I’m excited to be ‘knitting along’ with so many other folks from around the world!

Inishturk Sweater Knit-Along: Choose Your Yarn & Make a Gauge Swatch! | Lion Brand Notebook

[…] Announcing Our Winter 2010 Knit-Along! […]

Julie

Hi, Julie from NYC here: I’m very excited about this project , my first KAL!
But I’m wondering: Why are there no charts provided? Any Aran pattern I have ever seen had charts. Or is this a “teaching moment”?

2. Ho can I adapt the pattern for my daughter who will need a children’s size 8/10 ? Thanks!!

Heather says: “Hi, Julie: Although this pattern (which has been a Lion Brand pattern for a few years) does not have charts, I will be discussing this and making charts to go along with the pattern. As for adapting to a smaller size, you will need to swatch with a lighter weight yarn and have a gauge with more stitches to the inch. This pattern has been sized by the number of double-seed stitch on each side of the cable patterns. The smallest size only has only 4 double-seed stitch pattern on each side, so this pattern can’t be made much smaller as it is written. I hope this helps you and you will try to make this sweater!”

Julie

^^ how

Marla in Bellflower, CA

I will also be knitting mine in the round since I’m not a fan of sewing seams. I’m also looking forward to the lesson on creating a chart from a pattern. Thank you, I love learning new skills.

Charity

Hi! Charity from Chico, CA here. This will be my first sweater, my first time with cables AND my first large project. As you can imagine I am a tiny bit apprehensive. But looking forward to being a part of a knitting “group.” Sounds like fun.

I’ll be knitting this for myself, I guess. I still need to get the yarn. Teehee. I might go with the Nature’s Brown, but I’m leaning more towards the CottonEase Hazelnut. I like the shade better and think it might be less scratchy (I can be sensitive sometimes).

Looking forward! =)

Julie

To Heather: Thank you for your detailed reply! I will definitely try to knit the sweater, but may just have to do it for myself!! (And make another Aran for my daughter later).

Donna

Is this where we ask Heather questions. I have two, probably dumb ones but I don’t know the answers. First, when a pattern says row 1 (RS) does that mean the right side is towards me or towards the outside? Also on the ribbing it says end with WS row. Won’t it look the same on both sides? (I haven’t started knitting yet) But if it looks the same, how do I know which is the wrong side. I’m so excited about this project.

Thanks
Donna

Zontee says: Hi Donna, yes, you can ask questions here. “RS” or “right side” means the public side of the garment or the outside that people will see. The pattern indicates it in case you would like to put a stitch marker or a safety pin on this side of the fabric so you can remember that it’s the right side — this should also address your second question about the WS row. Hope that helps.

Diann in Oceanside, CA

I did my Swatch last night and I get the gauge using the size 8 needle as far as stitches go but more rows then required for 4 inches. Now what? Also I am using Vanna’s Choice in Pearl Mist for myself.
I too prefer to knit the sweater in the round, will you be addressing these issues as well.

Thanks and this is my second Knit-Along.

Heather says: “Hi, Diann – I’m glad you did your swatch and don’t worry too much about the row gauge in this pattern as the stitch gauge is the most important to achieve the correct width. Although the Knit Along will be working the sweater as flat knitting, this sweater can be adapted to circular needles. I know others will be working this sweater in the round as well so you may want to read their comments as well!”

Kim

Hi, I’m from Timmins, Ontario, Canada and I’m really looking forward to this and maybe making some “knitting friends” I love to knit, but have started working full-time and find I don’t make the time to do things for me. I can’t remember the last time I knit a sweater, and I love challenges. I also have had problems getting the right sizes as I always skip the swatch, this time I am going to do things the right way! I’m using Vana’s choice in Taupe.

Christine

Hi, I’m from Newton, MA and I have a question for Heather. On the instruction for the pattern set up row for the back, should the second and third stitch be p1,k1 (x times) vs. k1,p1 (x times)?

Also I want to convert the collar from a crew to turtleneck. Any suggestion to do this is greatly appreciated.

Thanks so much.

Heather says: “Hi, Christine: The pattern is correct, and if it helps you just know that those outside stitches are always done in the Double Seed stitch – so just stay in pattern after the set-up row.”

Tera

Darn, I voted for the afghan! But oh well, this sweater was my second choice. I’m sure it’ll be fun to knit. I’m gonna use Fishermen’s Wool in Oatmeal.

Mary Ann Mijanovich

I am excited to knit this sweater with all of you. I am using Vanna’s Choice and will be making it for myself. I noticed that the pattern says to gauge 16sts for 4 inches but we are swatching 20sts. Will that be a problem?

Heather says: “Hi, Mary Ann: I find casting on more stitches than what the 4″ swatch calls for gives a more accurate gauge, since those edge stitches tend to not be very even. Hope this helps you and happy swatching!”

Pat R

I have a pretty stupid question, but I want to start this out right and not get it wrong from the very beginning! On the WS rows after the set up row, it says to knit the knit stitches and purl the purl stitches. Is that as they appear? In other words, if it appears as a purl stitch, do I purl it, or since that stitch was a knit stitch on the RS, do I knit it? Hope this makes sense to someone!

Heather says: “Hi, Pat: Yes, knit the knit stitches as they appear on the WS row – on the other side, those knits were purls and vice versa.”

Donna

Christine (138) I thought the same thing about that first set in the set up row. My first couple of rows after the ribbing on one side look just like ribbing until I get the pattern started. It’s going fine now and I’m not tearing back, so that’s my mark of homemadeness…is homemadeness a word…*chuckle* It’s going really well now though after many restarts.

Mimi

I am totally confused. After the pattern set up round (I’m knitting in the round), am I suppose to throw in “K the knit sts, P the purl sts” the 2nd round and every other round” in between each pattern stitches?

Zontee says: Hi Mimi, yes, that’s correct. You may want to use a stitch marker to mark the beginning/end of your round so that you know where to start. It’s still “knit the knits/purl the purls” since you do it as the stitches appear (so when you see a knit stitch V, you knit, and when you see a purl bump, you purl).

Mary Anne

Hi,
I have been trying to swatch using Wool Ease and am finding that the swatch is very loose and light weight. It doesn’t feel like it will be warm like an Aran knit sweater and if I hold the swatch up, I see alot of light through it. Using size 10 needles I get 17 stitches in 4″.
Would I get a heavier sweater if I use the Fisherman’s Wool?

Heather says: “Hi, Maryann: The Fisherman’s Wool is the same weight as the Wool Ease, and quite a few knitters have commented on how light the Double Seed stitch pattern appears. However, when you work the cable patterns, the fabric of the sweater is much denser. This pattern in the Fisherman’s Wool or the Wool Ease will create a warm sweater (because of the cables) without a lot of weight.”

Christine-WI

Hi-
I made up the hat from this pattern right after the announcement of the KAL. My co-workers all think it looks great. (I made it in Vanna’s Choice.)
The gauge for this sweater has been crazy. I think I am going to end up using US 10 1/2. I ended up making 5 attempts with everything from 8’s to 11’s. There was almost no change in width at all for me until I got to 10 1/2’s.
Well, going to go block these swatches and cross my fingers that one of them will work.

Christine-WI

I’m glad someone asked about the K in K and P into P. I know I was confused when we did the Cable Lux sweater (until someone asked about it.) Anyway, I wasn’t sure if I was remembering how to do it correctly. Thank you.

Eileen-WI

Hi I’m from Bristol, Wisconsin. I’ve knitted for many years, but this is my first KAL. I going to make this for my daughter. I just ordered Wool Ease, so I’m still waiting for my yarn. I can’t wait to get started!

Donna in SE Wisconsin

Regarding #143 – I was confused with K in K, P in P, also. I think I did this wrong and that’s probably why my pattern doesn’t look like the photo. (or the great photo’s being posted on Ravelry) Someone tell me if this is totally wrong…for the WS row, I was looking at the pattern row (RS) and reading it backwards (sort of) rather than visually looking at the knitting and determining if it was a V or a bump. Something tells me charting will be my answer.

Zontee says: Hi Donna, in knitting patterns, stitches are referenced by how they appear currently (since knits and purls are the fronts/backs of the same stitch). So when a pattern says knit the knits and purl the purls, it means AS THE STITCH APPEARS while facing you. In other words, if you see a stitch that’s a V, knit it, if you see a bump, purl it.

Donna in SE Wisconsin

Thanks, Zontee. Oh no…I’ve been doing it just the opposite! Important lesson learned.

Inishturk Sweater Knit-Along: Visual Patterns - Charts | Lion Brand Notebook

[…] Announcing Our Winter 2010 Knit-Along! […]

Marie

Hi there….I’m from northeastern PA and this is my first KAL…I just LOVE this pattern and am a little over 11″ into the back using OATMEAL. So far, it’s just gorgeous….

Found the yarn at our local Michael’s, and it was on sale–great timing! Haven’t knit anything quite this complicated in about 30 years….my very first attempt at knitting a fishermen sweater was a cardigan made with light grey wool from a sheep farm in NY state. I AM STILL WEARING THAT SWEATER ALMOST DAILY 34 YEARS LATER, and it still looks like new…unbelievable!!

Anyway, a friend has loaned to me a “magnetic” board to hold the directions (this board came with two narrow magnetic strips to place under each line), and it has made the project even more of a pleasure.

Lion Brand’s New KAL · Knitting @ CraftGossip

[…] here for the KAL pattern: http://blog.lionbrand.com/2010/01/14/announcing-our-winter-2010-knit-along/ You may also […]

Lucy Mc

Whew! Got the back done last night. Since I am making this for my husband who is a very big man it felt like a baby blanket. Am getting ready to cast on stitches for the front today!

Vina

I am going to do thie KAL but I am going to have to start later. I am to the final 6 rounds of the previous KAL the fourth one actually I made one for myself, sold one did another with out the Texture and sending to my daughter and this next to last one for a while will be for my sons girlfriend doing it in cotton, the others were done in Vannas Choice and Wool Ease I love both and will be making another in Wool Ease in the Blue Mist love that yarn and the color it is so nice to work with and washes up and is so soft and comfortable. So as soon as I finish this Textured Schrug from last years KAL I am going to start this one but it is so helpful to be able to read about the different tricks and tips for Knitting I have only Knit a few things before this last KAL But have truely enjoyed it. Well I will get in on this and can’t wait to try my hand at the cables. I have always thought they were beautiful but looked so difficult. I have Crocheted since I was 5 about 43 years or so and have only recently gotten the knitting bug and find I really love to do both but don’t have enough arms… oh to be and octopus with eight arms! only one eye but Well I get off subject but will be starting this project by the weekend. thanks to everyones wonderful posts on technique!

Louise

Hi, I’m from Michigan and am using this as I recuperate from back surgery. I need to be careful with the pattern and have pretty much got it down for all but the two larger sets. Looking good right now. I’m making it in a soft orange,so not a traditional color, but looks great anyway!

Tina Sanders

Is it to late to join? I would love to do this but just found the KAL on Ravelry.

Zontee says: Hi Tina, never too late to join!

Kandy

Too hard for me and like some of the other gals – I am slow with the knitting and would fall behind the others.

Bonita Mahan

When is the next Knit-Along?

Zontee says: Hi Bonita, we’ll have some special video knit-alongs with Knitting Daily TV this summer, but for a regular knit-along, look for a new one in the fall.

Ritugn

Are you planning to have a Knit-along this winter? I was hoping to see some voting, etc. for project selection. Do let us know. Ritu