For many knitters - even those who have several years' experience - knitting a sweater can seem like too big a challenge to take on. It requires a lot of yarn and usually several different techniques, and the possibility of everything going horribly wrong seems just a bit too significant.
If you're one of those knitters who sticks to hats, socks, scarves and cowls, this week's Field Notes is for you. We've got some great suggestions of simple sweaters for you to try - but first, Joelle explains how she got started...
"Three years ago, I took the plunge and knitted myself a sweater. I'd done a workshop on fitting which helped immensely. Armed with a lot of measurements, I took a deep breath and cast on.
There were a few false starts and one tiny mistake which slipped through the net, but I did it. I'd made myself a garment. And I've never looked back. Now I'm confident at making the small alterations necessary to get a good fit for my shape."
There are a few patterns which are perfect for your first ever sweater. Simple to knit, yet producing stylish results, they'll give you confidence to do even more in future. The Learn to Knit at Homecollection has two great sweater patterns for first-time sweater knitters - they're so simple, they're suitable even for beginner knitters.
For a snuggly sweater to wrap yourself up in, we love Nelly, pictured at the top. It uses 14 balls of Dovestone Natural Chunky - shown in shade 4 in the picture.
As with all the patterns in the collection, it can be knitted by a beginner who can do garter and stocking stitch. It's simple to put together and looks great with a belt around the middle, or on its own with a relaxed fit.
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Similarly, Marina (pictured left) is a gorgeous poncho using two shades of Dovestone Natural Chunky (shades 1 & 2 used in the picture). It would look great with almost any outfit and is perfect for those autumn days when there's a chill in the air. You'll need 3 balls of each of your two shades (6 in total). Alternatively, try Clem, which again uses simple stitches and is easy to put together. It's designed to be boxy, so you don't have to worry too much about sizing. You'll need nine balls ofDovestone Natural Chunky to complete it - or for a slimmer fit, use Dovestone Natural Aran. |
Alison designed the Learn to Knit at Home collection as the perfect follow-on for someone who has completed a beginners knitting workshop. If you'd like to try one to build your confidence before attempting your first sweater, we have Learn to Knit workshops coming up on 1st October, 5th November and 3rd December - click here for details.
Whichever sweater you choose as your first, Joelle has a final piece of advice:
"Take measurements. Be honest with yourself rather than guessing. Too often people make sweaters that are far too big for themselves. You're going to put a lot of time and effort into this - you deserve a sweater that will make you feel fabulous!"
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When we first introduced the gorgeous Finch and Wren sweaters last year, they were an instant hit. They're a great option for when you're feeling more confident in your sweater-knitting. Designed by Marie Wallin, they're knitted in Titus and are both absolutely stunning. They're available as individual patterns or as kits with yarn included. |
We're pleased to let you know that baa ram ewe is now on TripAdvisor! A handful of eagle-eyed customers have already left some wonderful comments and recommendations for us, which we really appreciate. It helps to spread the knitting love and ensure that visitors can find us when they're in the area. If you've ever bought from us, been to a course or knit night, or we've helped solve your knitting conundrums, we'd be delighted if you would leave a review and help guide more knitters and crocheters to us in future. |
