lonely needles

I think my unattended knitting was starting to feel like I was having an affair with my sewing machine. Okay, I was, but I'm pretty sure all that sewing gave me new energy when I picked up my needles again. And that energy finally got me to finish what should have been a very simple project but one that hung around too long, hurting my fingers along the way.

This shrug is Stefanie Japel's Two Tone Shrug from Fitted Knits. It's the second pattern I've tried from this book and I'm happy to report that there were no errors with this one (the first one was a serious lesson in patience). I modified the approach a wee bit by knitting the sleeves in the round instead of flat, because seams would have added unnecessary bulk and it's just plain easier that way. As for the painful fingers, it's entirely my own fault - I used sale bin Cascade Cotton Rich which is bulkier, but I stuck with the pattern's recommended needle size, which meant the ribbing was done on 3.5mm and man, was that a chore. I could only do a couple of rows at a time which is why it took my so long to finish. In the end, it's a cute little sweater but I'm not entirely sure if I'll feel right wearing it. Jay already made fun of my "miniature thing" and it looks very strange lying around (hence the modeled shots). But it's done and my needles are happy again.

Perhaps I'll knit for the kids next. Like sewing, it always works out better.