Monday, November 17, 2008

Sweetpea coat


The Sweetpea coat from Twist Collective for my daughter is almost complete. This pattern uses Harrisville Heathered Bulky at 2.5 stitches per inch. This is a gorgeous yarn if you want to go bulky. The heathered texture keeps the surface interesting.

For Miss Lear's petite frame, about a child's size 10, we began knitting at the top using the shoulder measurements for the smallest size, began the armhole shaping a little early, and then knit straight down with a few increases ending just at her jean pockets. This is a smart way to knit for a sweater recipient with opinions. In the picture here you see the second crack at a collar. She wanted it to stand up around her neck a little more and reach out to her shoulders. So we coped with those issues before we finished the armholes. An hour later she tried it on again and we decided it was too roomy under the arms, so I ripped back 4 rows and gave her a little less ease.  She kept trying it on until we liked the length. Today I'll fiddle with the sleeves. 

11 comments:

Kate said...

awwww. so cute. it's nice to be able to knit something so quickly for a non-baby, no?

tina said...

Miss Lear is one lucky young lady---- it is fabulous!!!!

Max said...

Wow - what a good mother!

Lynn in Tucson said...

You'll have quite the well-dressed little Lear!

Sel and Poivre said...

You are a wise knitting mother indeed to include and accomodate the views and wishes of your offspring/"client"!

Kay said...

"This is a smart way to knit for a sweater recipient with opinions."
--That had me laughing.

I can't WAIT for my yarn to arrive. Where is it?

Where is it?

xox Kay

Mrs. MillHutt said...

I sashayed on over from Kay and Ann's place -- so glad I did. The yarn for my Sweet Pea is on it's way here. I'm curious about how you reversed the pattern; how does one do that? Top down.
Thanks and Miss Lear is a lucky young lady who looks beguiling in that lavender.
Mrs. MillHutt

Anonymous said...

Oh, bravo! What an excellent answer to the perennial Muggle's question: "Why bother knitting?"

I know she'll love wearing it because she helped plan it. It sounds like you've indoctrinated her well into the joys of knitting.

Mrs. Lear said...

"Knitting from the Top" by Barbara Walker is the ultimate guide to knitting anything from sweaters to harem pants - from the top. It's a kind of map for off-roaders.

Cristina said...

Little Lear's looks are beyond sweet. Those eyes and that smile!

Cornflower said...

I love the expression on Miss Lear's face - super!