Saturday, August 30, 2008

Red & blue split-neckline knitted tee

Have any of you read my very first post where I wrote, "...and coming soon, knitting!" about what topics I would be including in this blog? Well, here is my very first completed knitted project! I started my class the first of July and had such a blast! Not that learning hasn't been frustrating. It definitely has. I've spilled some tears.

Anyway, I'm aware it is customary to first do a dishrag, hat or scarf. I started the dishrag and got bored. Knit, purl, knit, purl. Snore. I live in southern Texas and have never once in my life worn a scarf or winter hat. So, I found the simplest sweater pattern that I liked and dove right in.

This is the split-neckline cap-sleeved tee from Fitted Knits by Stefanie Japel. First let me write that I'm in love with most of the patterns in this book, and plan to make almost all of them.

Once you get past the sleeve set up, this sweater is basically a straight tube. I could tell from the picture they had it cinched up in the back on the model. So I did some flipping through a few books and decided to put in front and back darts. I really like the fit! I did make a few mistakes. No holes or anything unsightly. Can you see it's not exactly a cap sleeve like the book description? Despite any oopses, I learned a lot and will wear this with pride. Here's the neckline close up. Isn't it cute?!

I learned how to use double pointed needles doing the trim on the sleeves. That folded-picot edging was a fun little detail.

I used a yarn made up of 45% cotton/55% acrylic. It's a little hot, so I probably won't do that again. I didn't want to break the bank for my very first sweater and went with a less expensive yarn. You definitely get what you pay for. All in all I'm very happy with my very first sweater.

11 comments:

  1. I'm new to sewing and have been reading your blog to learn more and be inspired (which I have -- thanks!).

    I've been knitting for several years now and am SO impressed with your first sweater. As a person with no sewing/fitting background, I've always felt it has handicapped my sweater knitting. What a great job you did, especially with the mods! Your sweater is beautiful and fits great. Well done!

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  2. OK, I have to delurk to say that this is AMAZING to be your first project. WOW! Plus, the fact that you had the foresight to put in darts for a better fit.... it took me years of knitting to figure that one out. If you like this book, check out the new "Custom Knits" by Wendy Bernard. Wendy and Stephanie have similar design styles, and they are my top two favorite designers. Great job!

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  3. I am so proud of you!! This looks awesome!! You are so talented.

    Hey - I've been meaning to tell you that I got a fancy sewing machine. I don't have a clue what to do with it. Feel like giving me a lesson?

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  4. Absolutely gorgeous and to think its your first knitted garment.

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  5. Wow! Nice job!! In the fall/winter, I can handle making a scarf, I would never have the gumption to try a sweater, but your's looks great!

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  6. Am I ever so impressed with your skills !!!!! Your first sweater ever. I cannot believe it. It looks wonderful and it fits you. Superb. Bravo !

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  7. Amanda, Your persistence was worth it. The sweater T is lovely and a perfect fit. Congrats!

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  8. WOW! That is fabulous! I can't believe that's your first project. I can't even knit a dishrag :D

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  9. Fantastic! I have that book too and I love it! I hope to be able to knit something out of if for this fall. I feel I'm slowing getting my knitting mojo back!

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  10. Great looking sweater! You did a great job with the fit. When I started knitting I made a scarf got bored and jumped into a sweater just like you.

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