What's on the Needles

So my goal for the summer is to knit entirely from my stash and it looks like it is an entirely obtainable goal. These two new projects have been waiting to happen for a while and I have at least one more sweater after these. It feels really good to be able to just keep shrinking the stash and not spend money. Although it feels more like a dent than actual shrinking, if I can complete these two, plus a couple more by semptember, I will be totally hyped.

First up is some lovely Lorna's Laces Shepard Sock Yarn in Daffodil. Going back a few monthes, I used Grumperina's Jaywalker sock pattern, thinking the gauge dif was minimal, wrong. the sock was so small, I couldn't fit my foot in at all. Didn't even bother taking a picture, just frogged and decided to try a toe up pattern. It's one of those techniques that are on my list to try. So when I found Eunny Jung's entrelac sock pattern, I thought "Great! Toe Up and entrelac looks great with self painted yarn!" And it did turn out beautifully:

What you can't really tell from this pic is how extremely TIGHT it was around the heel. I was in fear of rippage. Turns out entrelac is a very UN-stretchy fabric and this yarn is VERY un-stretchy as well, so a VERY BAD fit together. Plus I hated the feeling of the entrelac on the soles

of my feet. Too much texture. So this was frogged as well and now...

Here is THE PERFECT pattern for this yarn, another by Grumperina. Lots of ribbing to help with the stretch factor and smooth bottom to soothe my feet. Helps that it is written for Lorna's Laces sock yarn. Ahhh. Can't wait to finish number two, so I can reveal how cute they are. Another project to make me long for cooler days.

But on to a more summery Bamboo yarn. I bought it on ebay and have no idea what country it is from or what anything on the label says, but it is very silky and stringy; is easily split, but drapes beautifully. I was disappointed that the seller's "peacock" was actually navy blue, but that's what I get for buying yarn online with no return option.

So I had been putting off putting it to use, but the time has come and I went in search of a suitable summer cardigan. Something with a lot of drape and not too much stitch detail, as navy blue is not the best color for showing off such details.

This pattern is very simple and I like the idea of trying my hand at making a collared top so it wins. I am going to alter it by making it a 3/4 sleeve, becuase I have enough yarn, I think. And also no sticking out french cuffs for me, mine will lie flat. I am also making mine with an inch positive ease, this model have 1.5 NEGATIVE ease, hence the slightly unattractive pulling at the bust. So the navy will make it slightly more dressy, could be worn business casual, and would also fit over a button up during the winter. Now I must go knit, or will never shrink my stash. But I leave you with Rawson.