The Panopeia Top I started October 27 was completely re-started November 4 after I learned I read gauge incorrectly. Sheesh.
After knitting a swatch, on my own I measured and determined I needed to go down one needle size, from 3.5 to 3.25 to obtain gauge. I borrowed 3.25 knitting needles from a friend and merrily knitted 93 of 99 needed rows.
Then I watched a YouTube video by Hortense of KnitsWithChopsticks that explains gauge, and how to choose the right-sized needles to obtain gauge. I was chagrined to realize I'd chosen the wrong size needles. But before going nuts, I called my quilter-friend Kate (she used to work in a yarn shop and really knows her stuff), and asked her about my specific project. She agreed that I needed to choose a needle size one step larger, and then explained why. That's when I allowed myself to go nuts. I'd knitted on the wrong-size needles. But how good it is to have a friend in the know, right?
So then I completely frogged the project and restarted knitting with 3.75 needles, UP one size larger. So much better. I know the top will fit.
This is a bottom-up knitting pattern, and I'm on row 88 of 99 (11" of 12½" done) at which point I'll start (learn) a different stitch that will become the yoke and neckline. So sorry to be sharing a picture that pretty much looks like the last one I posted, but I'm on the right track now.
Since I dare not knit all the time, because that's when I make mistakes (Who knew it would be so challenging to maintain 110 stitches on the needles in the stockinette design?) I put binding on the Modern Maze quilt. More pictures to come.
I also round loom knitted one more Santa Hat - one more to go, for a total of six.
I made three pom-poms, which I still haven't perfected, but they're getting better. I prefer a pom-pom that's a bit more tight/dense, though it's been pointed out that if they're too dense, they can weigh enough to pull down the top of a cap or beanie. I've had fairly good success with the donut method.
I made a pom-pom for the round loom knitted Bayberries Beanie, and like it even more.
Of course since making these pom-poms, a friend pointed me to another YouTube video by RsislandCrafts. Her method seems even better because the short yarn pieces are more secure. I'll try it next time.
I'm appreciating that our summer temperatures are finally showing signs of autumn. We woke to 60F (15.5C) this morning, and it's glorious. Linda
I felt for you after reading that your almost finished knitting section was the wrong gauge. I'm glad you are back on track. In the end, it will be a good story and you will look back and say, I learned that stitch in this project!
ReplyDeleteYou have been busy with your knitting and making pom poms. It certainly is frustrating that you had to undo your pretty blue top and reknit it, but I'm sure you will be pleased with the results.
ReplyDeleteBummer that you have to frog again to find the right gauge for your knitting. I bet it will be awesome when you are done!
ReplyDeletePulling out 93 of 99 rows takes real resolve, but better to find out before finishing than after. Calling a friend who used to work in a yarn shop is the best kind of help. Now that you have gone up to 3.75 needles, will you swatch again or trust the gauge as you go?
ReplyDeleteHello Beatrice. I see you ate a no reply commenter… and you might even be an AI generated comment because you’ve summarized my post very well. But I’ll give you the benefit of my doubts and answer your question. No, after realizing I’d used the wrong sized needles, i did not make another swatch. I’ve been knitting the piece and verified as i went that gauge IS correct. Happily, I am now knitting the lacy upper bodice. Do tell… are you a computer, or are you trying to sell something?
DeleteWell done on your persistence with the needle gauge change and having to start over, Linda. I had to do that a few times last year - oh my, not happy, but worth it when I realised how much better the item knitted up with correct gauge. ;-)
ReplyDeleteLove the beanie, btw!