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Cable Luxe Tunic Knit-Along: Let’s Get Started!

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Cable Luxe Tunic Knit-Along: Let’s Get Started!

- Heather Lodinsky
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Greetings, cable-loving knitters, to the second Knit-Along (KAL) by Lion Brand! I am very excited to be the host of this KAL and look forward to making this gorgeous Cable Luxe Tunic along with so many of you. I was thrilled that so many of you voted for this tunic because I have wanted to make it for awhile myself! As a knitwear designer who sends away much of what I make, I have often referred to my two daughters as the “Cobbler’s Children” based on the story of a cobbler who sold all of the shoes he made, resulting in his kids being barefoot! The oldest of my kids, Lizzie, will be getting a fabulous cable sweater as a result of this KAL that she can wear as she goes off to college next year.

I have been a knitting teacher and freelance knit and crochet designer for about 15 years now. I learn so much from my students when it comes to explaining how to knit or finish a project, so I will do my best to answer questions or give you hints to help you with knitting this beautiful sweater.

First things first. Go ahead and download that pattern for the Cable Luxe Tunic! It is only free to download until November 27th, so make this the first thing on your list of things to do.

Now comes the important question of what yarn to use. Although the yarn used in the pattern is Wool-Ease, there are many yarn choices perfect for this pattern. Other yarns that would be great to use would be Vanna’s Choice, Cotton-Ease, Fishermen’s Wool, or Lion Cashmere Blend. Just remember to use a yarn listed as “Category 4 – medium worsted-aran weight” yarn and make sure you have at least the same amount of total yardage as called for in the Wool-Ease to make the size you want. A smooth, light, or bright color yarn will be best to show off all those cables!

What yarn did I pick out? Actually, I decided on Wool-Ease. One reason is that there were so many great color choices. The one I chose was a perfect pink, Blush Heather, that I know my daughter will love. Secondly, as she will be heading off to college this next year, this will make a wonderfully warm sweater that she will be able to wash and dry on her own. I will be making the small for her and I already have my 7 balls of Wool-Ease. I’m ready to get knitting!

My students know I am quite a stickler when it comes to making a gauge swatch, and it is always the first step to making sure a sweater will be the size you want. The pattern gives 2 different gauges, one in stockinette stitch and another in cable pattern. I concentrated on the gauge for the stockinette stitch, which will tell me the size of the largest needle to use. The gauge calls for 18 sts = 4″. An easy way I get the gauge is to make a swatch starting with the size needle called for — a US 8 (5 mm). I like to cast on either 3 or 4 stitches on each side of the 18 sts to make a garter stitch border, which makes it very easy to measure the center 18 sts in stockinette stitch. When I made the swatch using the US 8 needles, the measurement over the 18 sts was about 3.5″ — too small. To make the stitches larger, I went up one needle size to a US 9 and the swatch measured a perfect 4″ between the garter stitch borders. For this sweater, I’m most concerned about the number of stitches, rather than rows, as it will affect the width of the garment (although the row gauge was right on as well!) I will use a needle one size smaller — US 8 — for the circular needle for the yoke of the sweater.

Now, I’m ready for the first part of this sweater –- making the beautiful cabled strip (see above) that will go all around the tunic just below the yoke. This cable pattern is a 16 row repeat pattern, so I find either marking down on paper what row I’m on or using a row counter a great help. I will be busy knitting this pattern for 44″ during the two weeks until my next post. In the meantime, print that pattern, get your yarn, get swatching, and have a very happy Thanksgiving! (Our next post will be Dec. 4.) I look forward to seeing your pictures (join our Flickr group) and hearing from you!

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148 Comments

  • I laughed when I read your note about your students knowing you are a stickler for gauge swatches – my students know the same thing about me (at least for sweaters) I was surprised, though, about a couple of your comments about the gauge swatch in this case…

    First – you said that you did the swatch in st st (and at least implied that you didn’t do the cable swatch). In looking at the sweater, it’s all cables – shouldn’t we be more concerned about getting gauge with the cables than st st? The only place that isn’t cables is garter stitch, so the st st swatch isn’t even reliable for that since it’s not uncommon to K and P at different gauges and the garter here is all K.

    Second – you weren’t worried about the row gauge, but for the yoke piece, row gauge seems to be pretty important as well in order to end w/ a row 2 at the specified lengths.

    Heather says: Hi, Shari: Thanks for your question about gauge – it is such an important factor as to whether a garment will fit. You are right about this garment being mostly cables – but there are different cable patterns in this tunic and the majority of the cables are mixed with stockinette stitch. Since you can’t change needles on the same row, I concentrated on the stockinette stitch which is easily measured and will give you a true “stitch size”. My “swatch” for the cable was actually knitting the cabled strip itself. I found that the rows did indeed measure the same as for the stockinette stitch (which is 24 rows = 4″). So each repeat of the 16 row pattern should end up about just a little less than 2 3/4″. However, I feel the stitch gauge is the most important as it affects the total width of the garment. I have seen some of my students torture themselves over the row gauge when it is not perfect. I will be talking about this in the next post, but I bet there will be very few knitters who will get exactly the 44 (47, 52, 58, 66)” for the cabled stitch strip and my advise is to stop on row 2 of pattern the closest to your size. Hope this helps and that you will enjoy knitting this tunic!

  • Heather, in fact, I have made this pattern and did make the strip just about an inch too long, even when measuring around where it was supposed to fit on the shoulders. But only I will know it. No one else can really tell.

    I wanted to do this pattern because I’d never seen a pattern where you make a strip and knit above it and then down from it and I was intrigued.

    However, I do want to warn people about the sleeves. While you do have to measure and mark the sleeve section on the strip, I found that the cast on instructions were way too stingy! If I cast on just the number suggested, the top of the sleeve was inCREDibly tight. I had to start the sleeve over a couple of times in order to make sure it didn’t bind just under the arm. So, be generous in picking up stitches AND consider adding stitches immediately into the first row down to increase the “give”. The sweater is so very lovely that you don’t want to feel uncomfortable under the arms when you wear it. And I never stop getting comments about how fantastic people think it is and how amazed they are that I made it.

    Heather says: Thank you for your comments, Miryam – when we get to the sleeves, I will keep this in mind.

  • I’m planning to join the kal, but I may have to take some scrap yarn and just learn to do cables first! I’ve only been knitting for a short time, and I’ve looked at this pattern several times thinking that I may never learn enough to try this beautiful sweater. But I’ve just learned to make socks, and I’m feeling a little more confident. I’ve never tried cables, though, and could use some advise on the best way to learn the art of cables before I start on the sweater. Any suggestions will be welcome. Thanks!

    Zontee says: Hi Sheila, before tackling this sweater, consider trying our Learn to Cable Scarf, which will give you some good guidance and practice!

  • I am intrigued by this pattern. Several of the comments (and the picture) mentioned doing the tunic as a dress. I assume you keep knitting the bottom longer, but see no reference to it in the pattern. (Is it there and I am just having a “senior moment” and not seeing it?). Also, someone mentioned doing the pattern on circular needles. I don’t have much experience using them and would like to know how to change the pattern and use circular needles to eliminate the seams. Thanks.

    Zontee says: Hi Deborah, we actually have a separate dress version pattern, which is called the Cable Luxe Maxi. You can certainly use that pattern instead to knit-along with us.

  • I’m sorry to be such a ‘grinch’, but I think this cable sweater/dress is ugly! It has no real shape, just a lot of cables that can make a wearer look fat, and it doesn’t look at all ‘fashionable.’ Looks more faddy/fatty.
    Why not a nice turtle neck sweater, or cowl neck sweater, with some A-line shaping in the skirt area?

  • You really pulled me in to this kal. I have never joined one but this sweater looks like something I might even wear. I am constantly knitting for others since I rarely wear knits. I’m planning to wear this over a turtleneck. Better start on it today so I can wear it this winter.

  • I am SO excited to find this pattern! I saw it once before and wanted so much to make it for one of my daughters in a pale mint. Woot, my day has been made in spades! Thank you!

  • Yeah it won! So Heather you are the designer of this sweater? I know what you mean about being a cobbler’s daughter.. I have very few of my own designs, and find that now I would like to knit up some for me!!

    Now lets see, I have to clear the one cabled sweater off my plate (only 3 inches of sleeve to go) and go yarn shopping in my closet!

    Heather says: “Hi, Denise – Glad you wanted this sweater to win. I am a designer, but this tunic is not one of my designs, so I really will be doing it along with all of you for the first time!”

  • Oh are there any charts for this pattern? If not would anyone mind having them if I worked them up?

  • I’m dying to make this sweater – I love the A-line shape.

    I’m a newish knitter but am not afraid to try things.

    My biggest “but” about the pattern is the neckline . . . is there someway to adapt it to a cowel neck?

    Heather says: “One of the nice elements of this sweater is the knit-in-the-round neck. You could either just knit the neck longer, or if you want a wider neck, not do all the decrease and knit up from there. Keep it on your circular needles and try it on as you are lengthening the neck.”

  • I think this sweater is so elegant and beautiful. It may not be right for every body type, but those interested in the KAL could consider making this as a gift or simply to display so you can enjoy what a lovely piece you created. I have some decorative hooks in my ‘craft/study’ room where I hang some pieces that I made and it makes the room so relaxing and inviting. In response to JoAnne (post 5) for me the greatest part of the KAL is belonging to a community of wonderful knitters/crocheters like yourself. Just knit along and have fun, besides, we may NEED you and your input. Or if you choose a different project keep in touch with us!

  • I am so excited! I have been drooling over this pattern for months. I can’t wait to get started, and love that this pattern starts with a narrow cable strip. I can get that done and feel I’ve actually accomplished something, and continue to the rest of the sweater. Have fun, all!

  • I am glad this sweater won too. Alas, with all my Christmas Knitting on sticks, I will be behind on this one, but I hope I can make it my priority after the holidays. I have loved this sweater forever. (I too have see similar versions in high end stores/catalogs, and drooled.) Dreaming of cables…..ahhhhh.

  • I’m SOOO excited this pattern won.

    I’ve ordered all my supplies, but I’m still absolutely terrified… the biggest thing I’ve made with cables is a “napkin ring” from my “Look!!! You’re cabling!” book (or whatever it’s called.)

    I’m not scared to try new things, but still — I have a feeling this will be daunting.

    Heather says: “Hi, Liz – One of the most amazing things about cables is that they always look so much harder than they really are. My advice would be to try this, because you are working the cabled strip going around the yoke first. We will be doing this step-by-step, so don’t get overwhelmed just do one step at a time.”

  • Does this pattern come in a crochet version? If not how can it be converted to crochet?

    Zontee says: Hi Roberta, there is not a crochet version of this pattern. Because of the cables, this pattern would not be easy to crochet. However, please keep an eye out for our next crochet-along in early 2009 OR check out our previous crochet-along of the Crochet Sampler Afghan.

  • What a lovely sweater – I can’t wait to make it – but probably won’t start til after Christmas and will have to find an equivalent wool here in Spain or get some shipped to me here. Look forward to keeping in touch with everyone – this is my first knit along so will be a new experience.

  • I voted for this sweater and can’t wait to get started. I recently learned how to cable and can’t get over how beautiful this tunic looks!
    I chose the Wool-Ease in Avocado green.
    I’m also in the middle of knitting some Christmas presents so I might be up for a slow start.
    Happy Knitting everyone!

  • I am thrilled that this pattern won! I ordered the Mushroom yarn immediately this morning when the email came and can not wait to get started. I truly look forward to reading about all our journey’s with this gorgeous pattern! Yipee!

  • I have been knitting for many years but have never joined a knit-along. This is exciting. I would like to make the longer version of the tunic. Can you tell me the yarn requirements?

    Zontee says: Hi Lorraine, we have a separate pattern for the dress version, which is the Cable Luxe Maxi; please see it for measurements and for recommended yarn amounts.

  • I have wanted to knit this sweater for a long time. I have the yarn and pattern but I have read some of the reviews of people who have completed this sweater in Ravelry and Lion Brand website. The Wool Ease is to bulky and the sweater is very boxy. Has anyone found the sweater to be too bulky?

    Janine

    Heather says: “Hi, Janine – Make sure that you use the worsted-weight, regular “Wool-Ease” for this project if you should chose this yarn. I like the yarn very much for this project and although sweaters with many cables take more yarn, this sweater will only weigh about 20 oz when its done!”

  • Darn it! You are now offering the pattern for free? I bought it a couple of weeks ago, if I’d known you would be giving it away I would have saved myself $4. Obviously I think it is a nice design, otherwise I wouldn’t have bought the pattern.

  • Es una prensa fabulosa, que bueno que den el patron gratis.

  • Denise if you work up the charts, I would love them!

  • Thank you so much for suggesting the pattern “Learn to cable scarf” I too am an inexperienced knitter but loved this pattern. I guess I will have a great scarf and sweater by the end! 🙂

  • Hi Heather,

    Nice to meet you. I have looked at this pattern for quite awhile and am excited to finally start it. It will be fun having company along the way. I downloaded the pattern last week and decided on Wool-Ease as well in the color Fisherman. I’m making the tunic for myself in size large. My gauge swatch was spot on using size 8 needles but I’m glad I took the time to check. I cast on and am about 1/2 of the way through the cabled yoke. I paired wooden needles with the Wool-Ease and love the way they feel in my hands – the cables are just gliding along. One comment about the pattern – I noticed there is an omission in the stitch explanation section. The correction for Row 11 of the yoke pattern states “P7, 3/3 LC, 3/3 RC, P7” but there is no 3/3 RC in the stitch explanations. This might be confusing for some. The explanation should be “3/3 RC (3 over 3 right cross) Slip 3 sts to cable needle and hold in back, K3, then K3 from cable needle.” I also have a question. As I get to my 52” in yoke length to BO, it appears I should try to end on R4 of the pattern to match the seam. Can you, or any of our other knitting companions, confirm this? Also, any suggestions for a neat seam? I can seam St st in my sleep, but I have not tried to seam across a cable before, and I am very particular about seam finishes. I’d appreciate any suggestions. Looking forward to hearing about the progress of others. Cheers!

    Cheryl S

    Heather says “Hi, Cheryl – Your explanation of the 3/3 RC is correct and thank you. In the next post I will show a way to sew the strip together that will result in a smooth join.”

  • I chose Vanna’s Choice in the dusty purple. I must admit I am a little nervous about parts of this… but i think if I take it slow and carefully I shoul be fine.

    I paid for the pattern before it became free I was so excited about it. Wish I would have known. Oh well, I love the pattern

  • I am nearly finished this sweater and it looks beautiful. I was extremely nervous in the beginning as I do not consider myself an “experienced” knitter. It was much easier than it looked.

  • I’m so excited this pattern won the vote (I voted for it), though I like the other patterns also. I’ve sent for my yarn in the Wool-ease red sprinkles. I’m looking forward to working on the project which has an unusual approach to doing it.–dd

  • How very cool! I’m so glad this pattern was selected (I think I voted for it…). I will certainly be joining the kal, though I can’t start knitting right away. I am knitting shawls as Christmas gifts this year, and I have 2.5 left to do! 😉

  • I was reviewing the stitch explaination and 4/4 RC doesn’t match the other explainations. It reads Slip 4 sts to cable needle and hold in back, k4, then k4 from cable needle. I think it is suppose to be Slip 4 sts to cable needle and hold in back then p4 from the cable needle. Am I correct???

    Heather says: “Hi, Beth: The directions for the 4/4 RC is correct and it is used in the center cable panel of the front. Sometimes stitches from the cable needle are knitted and other times purled – the stitch explanation clarifies how those stitches on the cable needle will need to be worked.”

  • I must first confess. I have no business starting this sweater now and, quite frankly, will likely be behin all of you all of the way through. I am thinking of making this in the Lion Brand Cashmere blend – but am worried a bit about bulk. May play with a few swatches and few yarns to begin with until the moving on Thanksgiving weekend, grading research papers, then there is Christmas rush! Yikes! Also, I am considering making this into a cardigan. Did I mention I have no idea how I might do that? ~Kelly

  • To Kelly #31: Search raverly. I’m sure I saw where someone had made this into a cardigan on that site. It looked great too!

  • […] … startet Lion Brand einen KnitAlong zur “Cable Luxe Tunic”. […]

  • Hello,
    How much yarn is needed for the full length dress pattern? Thanks! I’m really looking forward to my first knit-along. Best wishes to all, Maggie

    Zontee says: Hi Maggie, please see my answer to #19.

  • i printed this pattern off a couple days ago when i realized it was posted for free. i voted for this pattern so i was so excited to see it had won!!

    i was wondering, ive heard/read from a few people that there are alot of errors in the pattern, will there be an effort during the KAL to correct the pattern/notify of errors?

    also im a relatively new knitter who jumped right in and did a plaited cable scarf for my first project, so i guess i will jump even further and make this my first sweater. dont know if i will be “with” everyone else due to the holidays but ive got my fingers crossed!!

    and yes, there is someone on ravelry who converted this into a cardigan by turning the cabled yoke around and leaving it separated. then left the middle cable out of the front and knitted left and right sides separately, its very pretty!! maybe with a bit more experience i can try this version myself!

  • Like others who have commented I have never joined a knit along before however I’m going to make my first attempt with the Luxe Tunic. Its a really beautiful sweater and I am actually making it for ME 🙂

    Lyn

  • I’m joining this KAL because I *love* this pattern. I bought it months ago and it’s been sitting waiting patiently for me to choose the yarn and get knitting it already. But as Christmas is looming and I’ll be knitting gifts ’til my fingers bleed, this project will have to wait a bit longer. I look forward to vicariously enjoying all of your progress and I will bring up the rear around the new year.

    Happy knitting!

    Evelyn

  • Hi! I have read thru most of the comments and feel at ease that I am not the only one intimidated by cables. However, I just printed off the learn how to cable scarf and will really give this my best try. The crazy thing is I taught myself how to knit so I should be able to graduate up to something really cool as this sweater! I love it for me, and yes, I am 43!!
    I look forward to the next posting and will try to knit along. Of course if one sleeve is longer than the other, I can just state it is “character”! hee.hee..Happy Thanksgiving!!

  • I made this last fall for myself from a cotton/merino blend yarn. I LOVE IT!! It is my favorite piece of clothing and I get so many compliments.
    Good luck to you all and have fun!

  • I charted the 16 row yoke cable repeat in excel and it made it much easier to memorize. If it is ok with Lion Brand, I’ll post it in the flickr group.

    I recommend making a cable swatch and measuring it before and after washing/blocking. I’m making my tunic in 100% wool and the swatch did grow after washing and blocking.

    I’m making the size medium and my yoke is 17 repeats.

    Also, I noticed that the picture of the maxi version has a slightly different cable. The difference is in that row 11. Instead of 3/3LC, 3/3RC, the maxi version is with 3/3RC, 3/3RC. I knit my yoke twice to decide wich I like best! I’ll post pics in the flickr group ASAP.

    Zontee says: Hi Grace, definitely feel free to share your chart on the Flickr group– I think it’ll be quite helpful to others!

  • Hi. This is going to be my first KAL and I can’t wait to get started. Today I start a three week vacation and this is my vacation project. I will have to check my stash….I have some green and some blue…..decisions, decisions….what a way to use my stash.

  • […] Lion Brand Notebook […]

  • This is probably a silly question but is there another name for worsted-weight yarn?
    I went to my local sewing/knitting supply shop ( in Australia )and they had no idea what I was talking about…. they wanted to know what ply??

    Heather says: “Hi, Becca – the yarn used in this project is Wool-Ease which is a 4-ply, worsted-weight yarn. The yarn that you are looking for should give you a gauge of around 18 sts = 4″ (10 cm)”

    Zontee says: Hi Becca, the UK/Australian/NZ equivalent weight is a “10 ply” or “aran” weight. You can see equivalents on our Yarn by Weights chart.

  • I wish someone could model this sweater to see how it REALLY looks on person. :o)

    Zontee says: Hi Chris, you can search Flickr for pictures of people’s actual Cable Luxe Tunics, such as this one on a person.

  • I love this pattern and have been dying to make it. I have been a crocheter for 40 years, but only taught myself knitting about 15 years ago (I’m 46 now). I am worried however about the sizing. I’m a 44 bust…will a 2X fit me does anyone know??????

    thanks!

    Heather says: “The size 2x should be fine and give you enough ease – hope you have fun making this one, Mary Ann!”

  • Just bought the yarn, need to finish socks, scarf and a baby hat then its on to this. Just in case the knitting police are reading this blog, by finish I mean start a new project !!!!

  • Hi, Reading the blog, and then the comments, I was surprised at the number of snarky comments. This seems like a generous and positive endeavor and in no way “owed” to people. i do not get the snarky. I have seen this before on blogs. Are people just used to it?

  • This pattern looks fabulous! I hope that it looks just as good on a person as it does on the hanger… Thanks for the pattern. I’m going to print it, but I’m not sure when I can get around to it. I have a few projects on the roster before I can tackle this one. To the woman who didn’t think she could do cables–they are much easier than they look… I am a little intimidated by doing socks, but cables are definitely a breeze!

  • I am so excited about this pattern! I have never finished a sweater for myself, and I just can’t wait to really get started. Thanks so much for the tip about making a swatch. I never thought to make a border around it, but that makes so much sense. I am going to do that from now on. I am just so happy to be making this sweater, especially with so much help and support from everyone online. I love cables and I think the tunic sweater is so beautiful.

  • I am really excited about this. I even knit my first gauge swatch as I figured I’d be pretty disappointed to do all this work and then have it not fit over my head 🙂 I, too, use size 9 needles. I am waiting for my kit to come with the right yarn, but had some other wool-ease laying around, so did a sample of the yoke cable. I’m not super-experienced with cables, but this is definitely do-able! So excited!

  • Thanks so much for doing this knit-along. I love the pattern–I think the sweater is so beautiful. I would love to make it for myself, but the small size is a little too big for me. Is there any way I could adjust the pattern to fit me (I would need to shave off about 3 inches everywhere)? I just don’t know how to change the pattern, but I would love to make it and be able to keep it. Everything I make I always have to give away, and I don’t mind until I get to this most beautiful sweater above all other beautiful sweaters.

  • I like this sweater, it’s so youthful, and I’ve looked at it before. i don’t even know what a knit-along is! A friedn sent me this because she knows I’m just in LOVE with the knit dress that you can see a chunk of next to the sweater in the display image above. Actually I was trying to convince my friend to make it for me instead because she’s good. All I’ve ever knit is a scarf, and somehow one end is 10 stitches fatter than the other. Anyways I have no clue why I’m this chatty but my point was AWESOME sweater, so pretty, it’s not like “the sweater your granny knit” that you fee l you have to wear, this one i would probably wear out because it’s just so beautiful (AND THE DRESS WOULD BE SO AWESOME!!!!!!)

  • Hi! I’m so excited that the Cable Luxe Tunic pattern was picked for the knit-along, I have admired this sweater for such a long time. I consider myself an intermediate knitter so have always felt a little intimidated to try this pattern, but it sounds like by joining the knit-along I will have lots of support and helpful hints! I just purchased my yarn today and can’t wait to get started!

  • I loooove this pattern. I bought some pale yellow wool last year which I already started to knit up but this is a more perfect pattern! so here I am in down under oz and hope I finish it by next winter!!

  • Oh this is so cool, it was started on my 66th bday. I am almost finished with my blue denim cardigan & will start this with in the next week. I have been knitting sence I was 7 years years old. Looking very forward to doing this in purple for my self. Your sister in creativity, CarolWatson

  • I’m with Amanda (#49). I’ve started an appalling number of sweaters for myself but never finished one. I think I might be inclined to stick with this tunic since it is just so beautiful. It will have to wait until after Christmas though. A stack of wool hats is waiting to be boxed up and sent to Warm Woolies, and I’ve got to finish seaming them all and (((grrrr!))) weaving in my ends.

  • This is beautiful! I have not done a kal before either but I think I’ll join in. I absolutely love doing cables. I don’t know what color I’ll use or even what I’ll do with it when it’s finished but I’m going to do it anyway.

  • When I first bought the download for this pattern I had a lot questions. I emailed Lion Brand but never got any response. I was disappointed. I kept looking at the pattern over and over and finally I understood it. Now I am at the bottom of the first side and all in all it looks pretty good, if I do say so myself. I think this is one of the nicest things I’ve seen in a long time, and I’m having fun knitting it.

  • I started the Maxi version several months ago with the intention of using it as my wedding dress in March 2009. I put in on hold for a while and went on to other projects (I get bored easily), but this has inspired me to pick it up again and finish it. I’m a little concerned about it being too heavy and/or too hot for me since I live in Arizona. Is there any way I could make it sleeveless or short-sleeved? I’m using Wool-Ease Multi/White which has a little sparkle to it. Oh, and by the way, I’m keeping it a secret from my fiancee so I can only work on it when he’s not home and have to hide it when he is. I hope it will look alright on me.

    Zontee says: Hi Mary Jo, congratulations on your wedding! I certainly think that you could make it without the sleeves portion, as the yoke will appear like “capped sleeves.” See lizknits’s picture on Flickr for an example. I’m sure it will be lovely. Good luck!

  • Dear Knit along-ers,
    I too love this tunic. I have downloaded the pattern, but have no idea when I’ll be making it. I made the Tree of life afghan for one nephew for his wedding, when another nephew piped in, reminding me that he eloped and would truly love an afghan from Aunt Di. So, I am half-way done with my second TOL afghan. I will be reading along. I love the comments and learn so much from all of you.

    Not a sweater maker, so I will be really reading/studying the sleeve comments. Have fun. Keep posting!
    Diane in KY

  • First of all…Congrats, Mary Jo, on your up-coming wedding. I think this will be a stunning choice for your dress. Are you on Ravelry? You may want to post your wedding dress once you finish.

    I joined the group on Ravelry yesterday that coinsides with our KAL.

  • I am so excited about this pattern. I have oohed and awed over the sweater and am going to use KAL as time to try it. I think the silouette will be flattering for all body types, despite JoAnne’s opinion. Regarding cables, for those who have been intimidated by them as I have been, they are really just knit stitches. ( I finished a simple cable scarf – my first cable attempt) You move some stitches to a cable needle and keep the needle in the back or front, knit them and that’s it. Its so exciting to see the 3 dimensional result. I encourage all to try them.

  • I voted for this pattern as well, and am just tickled pink that it got picked! The cables make it look difficult, but they are so easy once you get the hang of it. I am going to try to do as much of this pattern as I can on circ. needles, because I don’t like seams… Good luck everyone!

  • Hi!

    Am an experienced beginner (i.e. have knit LOTS of basic scarves, dishcloths, small/felted bags in the past, but this would be my first “experienced” endeavor) who is probably going to attempt this project… not sure if time/work committments will allow me to keep up with the rest of you kal’ers, but I’ll try.

    As I was looking over the pattern just now, I couldn’t help but wonder if the yoke piece could be done with a provisional cast on and then Kitchener stitched together when finished. I’m horrible with sewing knitted seams and will go to great lengths to avoid having to do them (have a pullover on the go that I’m doing up in the round) or at least eliminate them wherever possible… I also figure that since the Kitchener stitch leaves a seamless join, it couldn’t help but add to the aesthetic of the garment.

    Can’t wait to go and get the supplies to make this!

  • Hello, everyone
    I also voted for this tunic, I love how it looks and think it will be very flattering because of the shape. I went to my local JoAnn today, they just happened to have the Wool ease on sale, perfect timing. I first wanted to make it the same color as the original, gray Heather, but it looked a bit blah, so I looked around and funny enough, Heather, I also chose the Blush Heather. I bought a bit of extra to make a hat and scarves to go with it later. Of course, I first have to make 3 other sweaters before Christmas, so it might be a while before I can start, but from reading all the comments, I won’t be the only one. I am making two hooded sweaters in Homespun from another Lion Brand pattern for my son and his fiancee, I’m just about done with the first one and started on the second one. The third sweater is for my husband and will take longer: I have to work on it when he is not around, and he always seems to be around 🙂

  • I have to be a Grinch too. I agree with JoAnne Yates: I think this pattern is ugly and way too busy. Every time I see it in the Lion Brand catalog, I wonder who would spend countless hours making this. I already can see there are problems with the instructions from the above comments.
    All those cables are overkill. I also don’t understand the logic of making a heavy looking pullover with such a low neckline.
    It’s not shown on a model, and I doubt this style would look good on an actual person with a less than perfect figure. It’s definitely not for me.

  • Hi I got the KAL group started on Ravelry, one of the members of the group asked me this question. I am hoping that you can help with the answer.

    “I read the numerous comments about how the pattern was written so that it doesn’t match the picture. Has this been corrected?”

    Cora

  • For Katie #64: I’m using a provisional cast on with the plan to graft the two ends. I assume this will work!

    For those of you who say this sweater won’t look good on a an acutal person – search it on Raverly. There are all shapes and sizes of women wearing their completed sweater. And it looks great.

  • Hello! I was wondering, how long would this take someone who hasn’t made a sweater before? I’m good with cables, but have never made something like this, though I would love to and I’m a very quick learner.

    Zontee says: Hi Shay, as with all projects, how long it takes is going to depend on how fast you work and how much time and effort you put into it. Also keep in mind how it’s more about the journey than the destination. And of course, you can work at your own pace, so why not give it a go?

  • Hi. I also voted for this pattern. Being a knitter my whole life I don’t think it looks that hard. Just finished eight shawls for Christmas and I started the yoke last night and so far looks good. I’m knitting it in Vanna’s Olive and also bought extra yarn to make a matching scarf and hat. This is my first KAL and I am really looking forward to it. For all of you nay-sayers I think this is a very slimming looking sweater. Talk to you soon.

  • Hi, I am so excited that so many are making this tunic or dress. I am making the dress and want to wear it to a party in 2 weeks. I thought I was finished, basted it together and tried it on………and found that the sleeves were too short, the length was too short and the neck was bound off too tightly. so, I am now amending and hope it works. I’m working it in 100% alpaca in a wine color, very pretty, but the yarn is much lighter in weight so I am using size 4 needles and the stitch numbers for the largest size, so it will fit my small-to-medium body. And I hope it will! Sharon Bauer

  • I would love to koin the KAL, but I have just too many knit and crochet projects that I am wotking on for Christmas and charities. I love the tunic especially as I am a cable lover, the harder and more complex the better. So in the New Year it will be my first project and for ME.

  • This will be the first sweater I knit for myself. I’ve been sticking to baby sweaters thus far. I’m really excited! Now comes the hard part….what color?

  • Hi, I’m another beginning knitter and after looking over this sweater, have decided to try it. I’m sure I will be asking for lots of help, but am really excited to get started. I am also wondering if there is anyone who has charted this pattern as it would make it so much easier for this beginner.

  • Fairly “green” at knitting but I thought I’d give this pattern a shot. I ripped out the back already at least three times until I smartened up and made a “test” swatch for the pattern instructions that were mystifying me! On the rows that ask you to slip a stitch on the right side, be sure to first hold your yarn in back as if you were preparing to knit, then slip the stitch onto the needle. Continue onto the next stitch as a purl stitch. When you complete the row and begin to stitch on the wrong side, be sure to PURL that slip stitch when you get to it. The pattern that I purchased does not go into much detail and I’m sure I’m in over my head trying to knit an advanced pattern like this, but so far I’ve managed the cable yoke and am almost done with the back. It is looking great so far. I also made a chart that makes sense to me so that I know when to cable the 3/3 cables and the 4/4 cables and when to do the increase rows just by glancing at my chart. I just have to keep track of what row I’m on.

    I’ve seen a very similar sweater at Macy’s the other day. The upper neckline is slightly different and there are fewer cable rows in the body, but the sweater is much like this one. Macy’s wants about $50.00 for it!

    Happy knitting everyone and keep those tips coming!

  • Oh, another tiny problem I found was late in the increase row instructions. I don’t remember right now what I had to understand and change, but it referred to Row 3 of….3/3 LC pattern? And 4/4 center pattern?

    Ultimately, the row 3 of each did not match up, I think. The real issue is just making increases properly, and if you stick with the increases in the allover cables, that increases it all properly after all.

    Heather says: ” Hi, Miryam: In my next post, I will cover the increase row, but if you get there before the post – just make sure your increases are on the outside the cables (the fabric increases between the cables, not the cables themselves.) Also, a good way to see your cables is to mark them by placing stitch markers on your needles on each side of the cables.”

    Do help me out and double check that part.

  • I love this pattern and voted for it because it looked like the kind of project that would be nice to have a lot of help available for. I’d be afraid to try it all on my own.

    I haven’t picked a my yarn yet. But can’t wait to find a great color and get started.

    Right now I’m finishing up Wool Ease ski headbands for Christmas!

  • Miryam,
    I was also looking at the directions and could not understand how the Row 3 of the 3/3 LC would match. I thought maybe it should be Row 5 of the 3/3 LC. But I am so new at reading knitting directions, I could be totally wrong. Did the directions work out correctly using the Row 3 of the 3/3 LC on the increase row?

  • I’m in! I so need the cable practice. 🙂 I tried a couple yarns for this, and wasn’t happy with them, and dug through my stash, and there at the bottom were 10 balls of forest green heather Wool-Ease! I have no idea when I bought them, or what for, but I figure it’s a sign, so I’m off and running on the yoke. I knit loosely, so after swatching, it’s size 6 needles for me.

  • I’m getting ready to start the cabled yoke of this sweater and have a question. I have a 38 inch bust, so was planning on making the large size, but the pattern says the yoke needs to be 54 inches long. This just seems really long to me, even if it is going over the shoulder. How much ease is written into the pattern? Are the measurement given in the pattern finished measurements, or are they actual bust measurements?

    Heather says: “Hi, Casey: The cabled strip for the medium is 52″ and needs to be that long to go all around the arms just below the shoulder and body. The finished bust on the sweater is 40″ – and that is the measurement I would look at to determine your size.”

  • I just received a catalog from Victoria’s Secret that has an almost identical copy of this tunic in it. They’re selling it for $49. I found Wool Ease yarn online on sale for $2/skein! Mine’s going to cost me $14 and I’ll have the fun of knitting it. Now that’s what I call a bargain.

  • Well, I’ve downloaded the pattern and my eyes are crossed, looking at the instructions. Promise me y’all won’t leave me alone with this project.

  • Hi Casey #80.
    I can’t tell you what the finished sweater should fit like, but I’m a 39″ bust and I’m making the medium. I just finished the yoke and garter stitch neckline and it fits so that the cabled yoke falls on the curve of my shoulders. I think that once the rest of the sweater is knit & blocked it will probably settle a little further down past my shoulders. 47″ (for the medium) seemed like a lot also, but it does allow for some extra ease so I think it will work for me. Good luck!

  • Danielle #78, the instructions I was using were for the Maxi, which is more confusing than Tunic (I bought the Maxi and then >made< the tunic by cutting the maxi short). Here’s what I believe is what they’re trying to do with the increases is make the extra stitches as hidden as possible. If you make an increase next to a cable, it hides the increase, since the row is kinda misshapen anywhay, and the increase just looks more like part of that on either side of the cable.

    If I’m wrong, I have no idea what they mean. But when I increased next to a 3/3 cable, it looked a tiny bit better. I ended up with a tunic that looked pretty much exactly like the picture, so if I did something incorrectly, it worked out….

    I’d be happy to have someone officially explain that increase row. Barring that, I just make enough increases in whatever designated row I think looks better.

  • I, too, voted for this sweater. I had seen the pattern but just was too far behind in my projects to actually order it. I am currently awaiting my order for yarn so I can get started = what is one more project on the go, right. Since this is my first ever knit a long, I am really looking forward to the yarn arriving.

  • I ordered the yarn and now I have to wait for it before I get started. I intend to make a cardigan out of this pattern. Cardigans are more practical in Florida and I am sure this pattern would make a fabulous cardigan.

    Can’t wait to start, I hope my yarn gets here soon 🙂

  • Much as I’m excited to try and get excited about finishing this one this year, I’m a little saddened that Lion has not taken note of all of the errors that the Craftster KAL identified and sent in.

    That KAL has been active for a couple years and also has instructions for other similar versions of the pattern from other companies.

    http://www.craftster.org/forum/index.php?topic=199929.0

    Otherwise, I’m glad so many other people are as excited about the pattern as I am – I have to get mine finished!

  • Hi again!

    I have an idea about the printed (download-able) pattern and helping you maintain your place as you go along …

    In order to keep things straight in my own head and staying on track on the pattern, I opened up the .pdf version on my computer and then did a cut&paste of the pattern into a word processing program.

    Once it was copied onto a blank page, I went through and deleted all of the size notations that don’t pertain to the size that I’m making, double checking the pattern to be sure that the deletions are accurate.

    I then went through and changed the font and font side to something that was easier on my eyes and would let me make copious amounts of notations as I go along… f.w.i.w., I used Century Gothic in an 18pt size.

    I then printed off the pattern pages (I ended up with 4 pages) and then used a photocopier to double side the pattern into a form that would allow me to take it with me. (2 pages are easier to keep track of than 4)

    On a separate page, I cut & pasted the “Stitch Explanation” section and printed that off and stapled it to the rest of the pattern for reference.

    I hope that this hint helps others… I’ve started on the yoke and have already started making tick marks as I complete the rows.

    Heather says: “Thanks for the idea, Kate. It is amazing what a good “cut and paste” job can do! With all the numbers in a pattern, it can be difficult to focus. I always encourage my students (and myself!) to circle the size they are making – along with all the numbers that follow. There is little worse than starting a knitting project, putting it down for a little while, and then wonder what size you were making! Thanks again.”

  • Like so many others, this is my first KAL and I’m excited to be a part of it. Although I’ve been knitting for about 45 years, I’ve never made myself a sweater, so this is my first.

    I’m on vacation from work this week and started this Sunday. I finished the yoke last night but have a question. It says to finish on row 2 and for a size medium to make it 47 inches. Finishing it on row 2 makes mine 48″ even though my guage swatch was on the mark with size 9 needles. Should I unravel the rows to make it 47″ and end on which ever row that is? I want to get started on the back today so I hope this gets posted on someone is kind enough to respond.

    Heather says: “Hi, Jennifer: I would stay at the 48″ you ended with-very few people will get exactly the perfect measurement called for in the pattern. Just keep in mind you have an extra inch, so when you mark off the sections for the front, back and sleeves, you may want to add about 1/4″ to each of those measurements to make up the difference.”

  • I just finished the sweater and it is beautiful!! [ I started before the knit-along] I have a small frame and many sweaters are just too big and bulky. This one is perfect and I could not be happier. I plan one making one for my Mom.

  • I almost ordered this pattern when I first saw it, but had my hands full so decided to wait. What a blessing to see it as the winner! I will be a late starter also with the Christmas Season and my husband having knee replacement surgury a week before Christmas. I hope to start after the New Year. I would love to hear how the cotton yarn works up (I live in the south). Cables can be fun.I use a double pointed needle the same size as my needle so I don’t have to move the stitches back and forth and keep in gauge.

  • This will be my first sweater! I ordered the violet woolease, and I’ll get started as soon as it gets here! (despite the fact I still have one and a half pairs of gloves to finish for Christmas)

  • Susan B., (#82) I’ll be right there with ya or behind you. I’m not that experienced with knitting but really needed a project to inspire me to go further. I really love this one.

  • Saw in a previous post that there is a similar sweater in the Victoria’s Secret catalog. I went to the website and found sweater #205-704 that looks almost exactly like this KAL tunic. I wonder if that is the way it should fit or if the model has a larger size on. I’ve started the yoke in the blue heather and so far it looks good. This will be a project that will not be finished quickly, will take some concentration and patience but hopefully it will be worth it.

    Zontee says: Hi Susan, keep in mind that the VS sweater has a ribbed collar that’s much longer than the one in our pattern. To see how the pattern made by/modeled by real people, please look at pictures of it on Flickr.

  • I loved this sweater at first sight! I voted also, but bought the pattern, just in case it wasn’t the winner. I haven’t found the wool yet and am wondering if you can buy LionBrand Wool-Ease in Canada. I live in Vernon, British Columbia and our one and only woolshop doesn’t stock it. I hope to get started before KAL is finished!
    Any info would be much appreciated.

  • Hi, Lani!

    Check out Yarn Forward Knitting at http://www.yarnforward.com/ca/yarn.html

    They’re out of the Ottawa/Kanata region, and they ship pretty much anywhere Canada Post delivers. I bought from them when I lived in Bella Bella a few years back and was very satisfied with their service.

  • Hi Kate!
    Thanks for the info…I will let you know how I do.
    Lani in the Okanagan.

    Zontee says: Hi Lani, also Lion Brand DOES ship to Canada, so you can also order from our website.

  • Is it absolutely necessary to block the cable yoke section or can I allow the weight of the body of the sweater to do this for me. It seems that if you block the cabled yoke you could stretch it out too far and then have a funky looking sweater.

    Tracy

    Heather says: “Hi, Tracy: It is not necessary to block the strip, however blocking it will help that curled edge to calm down a little, making it easier to pick up the stitches. I have a “handy-dandy” spritz bottle I use that I just dampen my pieces, let dry, and then they are easier to handle for finishing or picking-up stitches.”

  • I am excited to make this sweater, but I have a question on the sizing… I am a 36″ bust and usually like my sweaters a bit ‘fitted’ (like how it looks on the VS model). I’m thinking I should make the size small, but I’m worried that will be TOO small? I want it to fit but don’t want it to look too floaty… any suggestions?

    Heather says: “Hi, Emily: If you like your sweaters fitted, than the 36″ probably would be what you want, since this sweater does flare going down. I’m a 36″ as well, but for myself (who wears things less fitted) the 38” would give some more “ease” in fit. Hope this helps!”

  • Thanks for the advice on the sizing Heather. I will get started as soon as I am finished with my daughters knee socks which are a Christmas present. Since I am a school counselor, I don’t have much free time, but I will work along as quickly as I can. As for the self proclaimed Grouch..sweaters almost exactly like this one are popping up on all shapes and sizes in NY and DC. They are very popular! I think, if you like it, make it and wear it.

  • I am so excited to join this knit along, although how much will get done before I finish everyone else’s Christmas presents remains to be seen.

    I have LOTS of wool-ease in a few discontinued colors in my stash, so now I have to decide between a gorgeous royal blue or a lovely lilac pink or a classic camel tan. Either way, it will be the first thing I have made for myself and kept.

    Thanks!

  • I am new to KAL and I would love to join in the fun. However, leaving in this part of the world, Singpaore, with summer being our 365 days climate, Wool-Ease will be impossible!!

    Would anyone suggest me using bamboo yarn? Given the heavy cables? I tried ordering Cotton-Ease with Lion Brand but they don’t seem to sent to Singapore??

    Any suggestions of yarn substitutes will be most welcome 😀

    Zontee says: Hi Colleen, while LionBrand.com does not ship outside of the U.S. and Canada, there are companies that do ship internationally and sell Cotton-Ease, such as Royal Yarns.

  • Hello Everyone,
    This is my first attempt at participating in a blog. When my daughter was very young about ten years old she designed a similar sweater for me to knit for her. She approached me with detailed sketches in hand and a list of colors she felt would suit her best. Surprised at her faith in my ability to create a sweater being new to knitting I made a simplistic version (no cables). Some 14 years later she received the email to join in the making of this sweater and immediately pleaded with me to make it for her. The plea was accompanied with a description of the colors and length of the sweater (a soft rose color, some things never change). I agreed with the stipulation that she must attempt cables in the hooded sweater she is currently working on. Thanks for the pictures of real people wearing the sweater. The yoke is turning about beautiful.
    Thanks for sharing,
    Claire

  • I’m new to KAL and hope to keep up, but need to know about substituting yarns in order to be able to begin.

    Because I have a “pause” in my life, I am fearful that the Wool Ease will be way too warm for me. I have seen a couple other postings asking about using Cotton Ease, but haven’t seen any responses. Please, please let us know if the cotton would work for this sweater? Thanks so much and I can’t wait to make it.

    A hint I found elsewhere and use is to just run a scrap of yarn through a row every so often so that in the event you would find a mistake in your work, you can easily rip back to the scrap yarn row and not lose any stitches.

    Thanks

    Zontee says: Hi Becky, as Heather says in this post, you can certainly use other category 4 yarns, including Cotton-Ease (which is a great yarn for garments, as it is lighter than regular cotton and holds its shape better). The hint about the scrap of yarn (sometimes called a “lifeline”) is a great one — thanks for sharing!

  • I just finished about 6 of the 16 row repeats for the yoke, and I’m getting really excited! This is a pretty do-able project for most levels, just may take more time if you’re not as experienced (like me).

  • Oooooo!! I missed getting the free downloadable pattern by one day. Does anyone have it available that they an send me please?

  • I’m not quite sure how raverly works. What is the thing about the “invitation” to join? It doesn’t seem to be like flickr where you just search for pictures with key words.

    Zontee says: Hi Deborah, Ravelry is a social networking site for yarncrafters of all sorts. It has groups, forums, pattern searches, yarn organization and more. Since it’s still in “beta” (testing mode), you need an invitation to join. For more information, check out their tour.

  • I just looked at the online catalog for Victoria Secret. The sweater that is the twin for this KAL is DEFINATELY a boatneck. How can I change our pattern to a mock turtle? Don’t particularly like my chest exposed since I tend to get cold easily and I don’t think I’d like to wear this over a turtleneck.

  • Deborah #108,
    this pattern is not really a boatneck, but if you wanted it to be tighter and higher, just add say 4 to 6 rows and decrease a row a few more stitches like 8 or 10, evenly. That should take it up around the collarbone, I’d think. But don’t bind off until you put it on and see where it hits, cuz that might even be too high.

  • This is my first kal. I voted for the zen jacket which would have been WAY easier for me to do, plus I like it better, but I’m giving this a try. I don’t know how far I’ll get. It has been a long time since I did cables. I started this and have had to start over for the 3rd time but I think I’ve got the hang of the cables now. So I’m on row 12 and that’s an accomplishment for me! I have narrow shoulders so I may have to use the advice by Miryam because I don’t want it hanging down.

  • I was fascinated by the Tree of Life Afghan, and voted for this one for the nrxt Knit-A-Long. I plan to make the tunic, but not until the beginning of next year when I have finished some other projects. Not sure about ordering the kit versus buying the yarn locally as I will need the Large size and don’t know how many skains are included in the kit.

    Zontee says: Hi Carolyn, you can order the kit in whatever size you’re making. For a large, you would click the “Knit Kit” button that includes 8 balls for $24.95, or as you said, you could also simply purchase 8 balls of Wool-Ease locally.

  • Heather – Thank you so much for your advice on the sizing. I am going to make the size small – look forward to getting started!

  • I voted for this pattern because it’s lovely and is rated experienced. Next to the word chicken in the dictionary,is my face.If this weren’t a KAL,I wouldn’t even dare contemplate this EVER ! That said,I’ve got questions and I’m just reading the pattern through. When starting the back,each knitter according to her size,picks up and knits the appropriate number of stitches from the cable yoke between the markers. The next row is the foundation row. The next row is called Row 1 and it says inc 1 st.in first st. I never understood that in pattern instructions. This looks like a Bar increase. Am I knitting the st. and not sliding the st. off the needle,and knitting into the back of it to produce 2 sts.? Or should I be doing a Purl Bar increase instead? I’ve got other questions but I don’t want to bombard everyone in one sitting. I’m so determined to participate in this KAL that I registered with ravelry for an invitation to join. I can’t make heads or tails of that site as someone else mentioned in one of the two lists of comments. We can do this ladies good luck! Thank You Lion Brand.

    Heather says: “Hi, Traci: The increase called for in the pattern is to increase in a stitch, so I would knit into the front and back of the edge stitches.”

  • Hi Everyone,

    I work at Lion Brand & am also excited that this pattern was the winning vote. I have been knitting for quite some time now but have not yet ventured into the sweater territory. I had first seen this pattern at a trade show we had & it was love at first site. When I read about the KAL & knew for certain that if this pattern was chosen I would have to participate. This is my first KAL as well and I am by no means an experienced knitter so I will be learning along with some of you. What a great way to share ideas & tips!!

    I did my practice gague and will be working with size 8 needles as instructed. I started the yoked cable & it is looking very good if I may say so myself. My only concern so far is that the edges fold in a bit. Any recommendations on how I can get it to lay flat?

    Heather says: “Hi, Marlene: Don’t worry too much that the edges fold in a bit as both edges will have stitches picked up and that will solve the “curling” problem. However, if you want your edges to ease a bit to make it easier to pick up those stitches, you can simply dampen the piece with a spray bottle, then let it dry.”

  • […] those of you doing the Cable Lux Tunic Knit along , we now have a sample of the Cable Lux Tunic in the Studio.  Come by and take a look for some […]

  • to Marlene, regarding blocking

    I’m not a very experienced knitter, and I have learned that blocking pieces as you go helps immensely!!! I have just finished my yoke strip, and it, too, was very “curly”. I soaked it in cold water, squeezed it out, used the blocking kit I got at JoAnn.com, and now I have a beautiful rectangle ready to go for the next step.

    Heather, for the planning obsessed among us, do you think you could tell us what will be covered in the upcoming blog? I think you mentioned you would give a tip for how to make a nice seam, so I don’t really want to continue, if that is what is coming next. It would help if I knew how far to go before your next post.

    Thanks, Beth

    Heather says: “Hi, Beth: I will show how I sewed that seam in the cable strip in the next post. Thanks for your advice on blocking!”

  • To Beth post # 116,
    Thanks for the comment on blocking. I didn’t know such a kit was available. I am going to look into it since I have a few projects I need to uncurl.

  • Hi all – It has taken me several days to read through all the posts. I tried to figure out how to respond to specific comments, but since that didn’t work for me, I’ll just list my comments here along with the original post number.

    Susie (post 38) worried about the sleeves not being the same length. I’ve always worried about that, too, because even if you manage to get the same number of rows, tension in not always the same depending on what else is going on in your life. So I solve that problem by knitting the sleeves at the same time. If you put them side-by-side on the same needles, you can knit a row on one, the same row on the second one, and then turn and come back. The only trick is that you can’t stop between sleeves – either finish the row on both sleeves or stop in the middle of one sleeve so you know where to go next.

    As far as picking up the stitches on the side of the yoke, I used a crochet hook to pick them up and then, when the hook was almost full, slid them onto a circular needle. (I was thinking about adding a loop around the circular needle at the end of each row as I went along, but didn’t think of it soon enough. So I may try that on the next version. (Yes, there will be a next version. This is my practice piece – I really want to make it into a poncho for my daughter, but my good knitting buddy promises me that I won’t go to knitter’s hell if I actually follow the pattern the first time!)

    Thanks for all the support. I love hearing how others are coming along. – Rose

  • Hi Heather,

    This is my first knit along and my first attempt at a “cable” sweater. So far the yoke strip looks great, although I’m a little slow just getting used to making the cables… I just wanted to thank you for the great tip of adding 3 or 4 extra knit stitches to the border of the guage swatch, I’ve never done this, and it made it so much easier to measure!!

  • Thank you, thank you, thank you! I was so excited to see that the cable sweated won for my FIRST kal. I am a new knitter (just the basics), with 2years under my belt as a crocheter. It took me two days to get the cable for the yoke just right! But my perseverance paid off. My husband was very impressed! He has already hinted at a sweater for himself. I’m glad to find out that I can make the maxi. I will be sure to order the pattern, as I follow along! My only regret is that I missed your first kal with the Tree of Life. I’ve had that pattern for 2 years awaiting the time I would be able to make it.

  • I’m sorry if this question was already asked, but I made my swatch of stockinette stitch and had to up one size from an 8 to a 9. Then my gauge was spot on. As I’m knitting up the yoke, I’ve noticed that according to the pattern it should be 4.5 inches wide. Mine is only 3.5 inches wide. Is this going to be a problem later? Can I block the yoke after finishing it or should I change needle sizes again? Please help.

  • This appears to be a very popular pattern right now. I was shopping at JCPennys last night and saw almost the same sweater. The one at the store has a 2 button front. I am making this one for my daughter out of Vanna’s Choice Seaspray Mist.

  • I’ve been preparing to start the back, just as soon as Heather teaches us the great seaming method. In studying the increase row (I’m doing a small), I notice the increase of 2 stitches between the cables reads thus: inc 1 st in next st, p1, sl 1, inc 1 st in next st, p1. I’m an engineer, so symmetry is somewhat a given. In this increase pattern, the increase is done in the first stitch, and then in the second to last stitch, rather than the last one. Is this correct? I hate to get going and find out it’s incorrect. Thanks

    Heather says: “Hi, Beth: I did the increases just to each side of the cables as a purl make 1 (raised-bar increase). I think it is much more invisible when it is at the side of the purl stitches, rather then in in the middle. Either way, all these purl sections will flare out evenly.”

  • oops, one more thing, Heather. The instructions show three 3/3 LC cables on either side of the 4/4 center cable. The photo makes it look like there should be 3/3 RC cables on one side. Am I reading the instructions incorrectly?

    Heather says: “Hi, Beth – You have a good eye, and you are right about the cables. The pattern does have all the cables on each side of the center cable as LC cables, and that is the way I am working my tunic and it looks fine. The pattern will be changed to reflect this, but if you want to, you can certainly place RC cables on one side and LC on the other.

  • Beth, #116

    Is the blocking kit at JoAnn’s called Knit & Lace Blocking Wires Kit? That is all I could find on their website. I’m hoping if it is that they will have it at my local store.

    It sounds great. I always have had issues with blocking.

    Many thanks

  • […] In my last post, I had started the cable strip that goes around the upper part of the sweater. I’m making the smallest size for my daughter, and the instructions stated that I should end at 44″ and with row 2 of the 16 row cable repeat. I’m betting that not too many ended up exactly at their measurement – and I ended up at around 43″. If you’re not at the exact measurement when you hit that last row 2, just end at the row 2 that is the closest to your measurement, and then bind off on the next row. Why end on row 2? Well, this is a good break to sew together the beginning and end of the strip. I noticed that the cable strip curled quite a lot on the edges, so like I almost always do, I dampened the piece with a spray bottle of water and let it dry completely. It eased considerably and made it easier to sew and pick-up stitches–and I was able to shape it to the 44″ asked for in the pattern! […]

  • Denise I would also love to have charts if they are available! I am going into this sweater a little nervous and would love all the help I could get!

    Zontee says: Hi Tiffany, don’t forget to check out our Flickr group, where KALer Grace has charted out the yoke.

  • Jennifer (#125)

    Yes, that’s the kit – you’ll love it!

    Beth

  • I have a question on knitting the back. When knitting the back. It talks of increasing stitches in rows 1, 3, 5 and 7 at the beginning in end. To increase stitch, I am pearling in the front and knitting in the back of the stitch correct? When I knit the knit stitches and purl the purl stitches on the way back, what are the increased stitches suppose to be, purl or knit stitches?

    Heather says: “Hi, Sue: You can increase just the way you are doing – that is fine. These stitches that are increased are worked in reverse stockinette (Purl on RS, Knit on WS), however, I also worked one more slipped stitch into the pattern 2 stitches away from each of the outside cables.”

  • Beth #116 & 128

    I ordered it online last night and can’t wait to get it. They were offering free shipping for the next few days for anyone wanting to order it. The kit isn’t available in stores.

    Again thanks for the tip Beth.

  • where it says p2 sl 1 p2 what do you do with the sl 1 when you k all knits and p all purls

    Heather says: “Hi, Louise: On the WS, purl the slipped stitches – this makes a very pretty elongated knit stitch between the cables.”

  • Thank you Heather i will give that a try

  • I have been trying to follow along although I am intimidated with knitting sweaters. I’ve knit afghans before but very few sweaters. My weaknesses are picking up stitches and seams but I’m taking it a step at a time. I was going to make it for myself but I don’t think the style will look good on me so I’m making a small instead and will probably give it away. I just finished the yoke and starting the back tonight. I’ll have to read the directions a few times because the first time reading them made no sense. Wish me luck.

  • Sandy,
    OK I hate to appear stupid but I’m already confused. I started the back tonight. I’m doing a small. I picked up my 82 stitches from the yoke and did the foundation row and row 1 ending with 84 stitches as it says. I did the second row knitting k stitches and pearling p stitches. Now what? The stitches don’t come out right for row 3 of the pattern (inc row). What pattern do I use to get to the 90 stitches so I can cast on 4 at each end for the armhole and then continue to the inc row on page 4 of the pattern.

    Heather says: “Hi, Sandy: While increasing on the sides of your back, keep working your cable pattterns as set. Increasing can be confusing to know where you are in a project where there are cable patterns. An excellent way to keep track of your cables (and to know where to work them) is to place stitch markers on each side of every cable.”

  • Okay so I’ve never done cables before. I figured that this sweater would be the perfect thing to “cut my teeth” on. I’ve done sweaters for small people, countless scarves and tons of mittens and hats….this is going to be a real challenge. I started the yoke this weekend, after the 2nd pattern repeat it just started flying….I’m so jazzed!!!

  • I have a question but I’m not sure how to ask so that you will understand. My question concerns the back and the increasing on each side. I’m knitting in the front and back of the stitch for the increase. Now, on the 2nd row do I knit or pearl the increased stitch.
    I’m assuming I don’t start the increase row within the cable til after I reach my 90 stitchs (size sm) and do the 4 cast on stitches on each side. Is that correct? I hate to go too far and have to rip out.

  • When is the next update scheduled? Hopefully there will be some further clarification on the pattern for the body of the sweater. I’m an experienced knitter, but am struggling a little with getting started on the back with the increases and the 2 cable patterns. It’s a great, challenging project!

    Zontee says: Hi Linda, the next update from Heather will be up tomorrow morning.

  • It has been slow progress since I’ve struggled with doing the cables, but I’m working on the yoke and it seems to be coming along okay. I don’t know if I’ll get it done in time to wear THIS winter, though!

  • Hello:
    I have been sick and off work for quite a while and am now just catching up on my email. I was amazed that this sweater pattern was offered for free as I had seen it in earlier emails. However, I was sad to see that I had missed the download dates. Would it be possible to have the pattern shared with me? Money is tight right now as the off work time was without pay. The sweater would make a lovely late Chanukah gift for my daughter. If not, I certainly understand.

    Cynthia

  • oh, i am so bummed. i missed this by a month. i’ve really wanted to knit this, but was so busy with school, then my wedding. i wish i had found this KAL a month ago.

  • omg, i just read post #139….if someone could share the free download, i think i could try the KAL, too. is that at all possible? sorry if my post offends anyone.

    Lion Brand says: Hi, Allie. We’re so sorry that you missed the KAL! Unfortunately, the download is no longer free, and sharing the pattern violates copyright. It is still available to download from our website for $3.95, which you can view here. We really hope you’re able to join us for our next KAL.

  • I am attempting this sweater. I started the yoke per instructions. I am lost. Row two says to knit the knit and purl the purl but mine is not turning out like the picture. Is the picture done puling the knit and knitting the purl. My looks like it is all gartner stitched both sides. I do not have the stockinette look on the cables.

    PLEASE HELP!

    Heather says: “Hi, Ray: On the wrong side, knit those stitches that appear as knits (they were the purl stitches on the right side) and purl the stitches that appear as purls (they were the knit stitches on the right side). Hope this clarifies this for you.”

  • Ray-

    I was confused by the same thing. Heather’s instruction has it right, it will look just like the picture then.

  • I am alittle late getting started but better late then never.I have been following all the comments and updates and have printed them for reference.Hopefully I wont have too many problems.It is such a pretty top and I look forward to getting started.

  • Hi,

    I would like to make this sweater for my daughter in law, but she is very petite – probably around a size 4/6. The small measurement across the bust is 36″. Is there some way of making the sweater smaller or do you think with the design, it will be okay?

    Thanks for any help you can give me.

    Leslie

  • […] (KALs) and crochet-alongs (CALs). (Click the highlighted text to read her posts about the Cable Luxe Tunic, the Moderne Jacket, and the Saturday Morning Hoodie — this is just a sampling!) She has also […]

  • […] those of you doing the Cable Lux Tunic Knit along , we now have a sample of the Cable Lux Tunic in the […]

  • […] (KALs) and crochet-alongs (CALs). (Click the highlighted text to read her posts about the Cable Luxe Tunic, the Moderne Jacket, and the Saturday Morning Hoodie — this is just a sampling!) She has also […]

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